Boosting the immunogenicity of the CoronaVac SARS-CoV-2 inactivated vaccine with Huoxiang Suling Shuanghua Decoction: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study.

Introduction: In light of the public health burden of the COVID-19 pandemic, boosting the safety and immunogenicity of COVID-19 vaccines is of great concern. Numerous Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) preparations have shown to beneficially modulate immunity. Based on pilot experiments in mice that showed that supplementation with Huoxiang Suling Shuanghua Decoction (HSSD) significantly enhances serum anti-RBD IgG titers after inoculation with recombinant SARS-CoV-2 S-RBD protein, we conducted this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial aimed to evaluate the potential immunogenicity boosting effect of oral HSSD after a third homologous immunization with Sinovac's CoronaVac SARS-CoV-2 (CVS) inactivated vaccine. Methods: A total of 70 participants were randomly assigned (1:1 ratio) to receive a third dose of CVS vaccination and either oral placebo or oral HSSD for 7 days. Safety aspects were assessed by recording local and systemic adverse events, and by blood and urine biochemistry and liver and kidney function tests. Main outcomes evaluated included serum anti-RBD IgG titer, T lymphocyte subsets, serum IgG and IgM levels, complement components (C3 and C4), and serum cytokines (IL-6 and IFN-γ). In addition, metabolomics technology was used to analyze differential metabolite expression after supplementation with HSSD. Results: Following a third CVS vaccination, significantly increased serum anti-RBD IgG titer, reduced serum IL-6 levels, increased serum IgG, IgM, and C3 and C4 levels, and improved cellular immunity, evidenced by reduce balance deviations in the distribution of lymphocyte subsets, was observed in the HSSD group compared with the placebo group. No serious adverse events were recorded in either group. Serum metabolomics results suggested that the mechanisms by which HSSD boosted the immunogenicity of the CVS vaccine are related to differential regulation of purine metabolism, vitamin B6 metabolism, folate biosynthesis, arginine and proline metabolism, and steroid hormone biosynthesis. Conclusion: Oral HSSD boosts the immunogenicity of the CVS vaccine in young and adult individuals. This trial provides clinical reference for evaluation of TCM immunomodulators to improve the immune response to COVID-19 vaccines.

[Anti-fatigue effect of Lubian on kidney Yin deficiency and kidney Yang deficiency mice and mechanism based on PI3K-Akt pathway].

This study aimed to investigate the anti-fatigue effect and mechanism of Lubian(Cervi Penis et Testis) on kidney Yin deficiency and kidney Yang deficiency mice. After one week of adaptive feeding, 88 healthy male Kunming mice were randomly divided into a blank group, a kidney Yin deficiency model group, a kidney Yin deficiency-Panacis Quinquefolii Radix(PQR) group, kidney Yin deficiency-Lubian treatment groups, a kidney Yang deficiency model group, a kidney Yang deficiency-Ginseng Radix et Rhizoma(GR) group, and kidney Yang deficiency-Lubian treatment groups, with eight mice in each group. The kidney Yin deficiency model and kidney Yang deficiency model were prepared by daily regular oral administration of dexamethasone acetate and hydrocortisone, respectively, and meanwhile, corresponding drugs were provided. The mice in the blank group received blank reagent. The treatment lasted 14 days. The exhaustive swimming time was measured 30 min after drug administration on the 14th day. On the 15th day, blood was collected from eyeballs and the serum was separated to determine the content of lactic acid(LD), blood urea nitrogen(BUN), lactate dehydrogenase(LDH), cyclic adenosine monophosphate(cAMP), and cyclic guanosine monophosphate(cGMP). The liver was dissected to determine the content of liver glycogen and the protein expression of phosphoinositide 3-kinase(PI3K) and protein kinase B(Akt). Compared with the kidney Yang deficiency model group, the kidney Yang deficiency-Lubian treatment groups showed increased body weight(P<0.05), relieved symptoms of Yang deficiency, decreased cGMP content(P<0.01), increased cAMP/cGMP(P<0.01), prolonged exhausted swimming time(P<0.01), reduced LD(P<0.01), elevated BUN content(P<0.01), increased liver glycogen content(P<0.01), and increased protein expression of PI3K and Akt in the liver(P<0.05). Compared with the kidney Yin deficiency model group, the kidney Yin deficiency-Lubian treatment groups showed increased body weight(P<0.01), relieved symptoms of Yin deficiency, increased content of cGMP(P<0.01), decreased cAMP/cGMP(P<0.01), prolonged exhausted swimming time(P<0.01), decreased LD(P<0.01), decreased BUN content(P<0.01), increased liver glycogen content(P<0.01), and increased protein expression of PI3K(P<0.05) and Akt in the liver(P<0.05). To sum up, Lubian can regulate Yin deficiency and Yang deficiency and increase glycogen synthesis by affecting the PI3K-Akt pathway, thereby exerting an anti-fatigue role.

[Properties of new exotic traditional Chinese medicinal Vernonia amygdalina leaves:a literature research].

The leaves of Vernonia amygdalina Delile of the family Asteraceae(also known as "bitter leaf"), rich in biological activities, are used as both medicine and food for a long time in West tropical Africa. They have been introduced into Southeast Asia and Fujian and Guangdong provinces of China in recent years. However, little is known about the properties of the plant in traditional Chinese medicine(TCM), which limits its combination with other Chinese medicinal herbs. In this study, 473 articles on V. amygdalina leaves were selected from PubMed, Web of Science, CNKI, Wanfang Data and VIP to summarize their components, pharmacological effects and clinical research. V. amygdalina leaves presented anti-microbial, hypoglycemic, anti-hypertensive, lipid-lowering, anti-tumor, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and other pharmacological effects. On the basis of the theory of TCM properties, the leaves were inferred to be cold in property and bitter and sweet in flavor, acting on spleen, liver, stomach and large intestine and with the functions of clearing heat, drying dampness, purging fire, removing toxin, killing insects and preventing attack of malaria. They can be used to treat dampness-heat diarrhea, interior heat and diabetes, malaria, insect accumulation and eczema(5-10 g dry leaves by decoction per day and an appropriate amount of crushed fresh leaves applying to the affected area for external use). Due to the lack of TCM properties, V. amygdalina leaves are rarely used medicinally in China. The determination of medicinal properties of the leaves is conducive to the introduction of new exotic medicinal herbs and the development of new TCM resources, which facilitated further clinical application and research and development of Chinese medicinal herbs.

Improvement influenza vaccine immune responses with traditional Chinese medicine and its active ingredients.

The current influenza vaccines are unable to provide effective protection in many cases, like influenza viruses strain antigenic drift or shift, and the influenza continues to cause significant annual morbidity and mortality. Improving the immune response to influenza vaccination is an unmet need. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and its active ingredients are commonly known to have immunomodulatory properties. We therefore compared influenza vaccination alone or formulated with Astragali Radix (Huangqi in Chinese), and several representative ingredients of TCM, including lentinan (polysaccharide), panax notoginseng saponins (saponin), breviscapine (flavone), andrographolide (terpenoid), and a Chinese herbal compound (kangai) for their potential to enhance immune responses to influenza vaccine in mice. We found that all these TCM-adjuvants were able to increase hemagglutination inhibition (HAI) antibody titers, splenocyte proliferation, splenic T cell differentiation, bone marrow dendritic cell maturity, and both Th1 and Th2 cytokine secretion of influenza vaccine to varying degrees, and that had the characteristics of no excessive inflammatory responses and bidirectional regulation simultaneously. Taken together, our findings show that Astragali Radix exerts a more comprehensive effect on vaccine immunity, on both innate and adaptive immunity. The effects of lentinan and andrographolide on adaptive immunity were more significant, while the effects of breviscapine on innate immunity were stronger, and the other two TCM adjuvants were weaker. As the first report of a comprehensive evaluation of TCM adjuvants in influenza vaccines, the results suggest that TCM and their active ingredients are good candidates for enhancing the immune response of influenza vaccines, and that suitable TCMs can be selected based on the adjuvant requirements of different vaccines.

[Traditional Chinese medicine health care from "long term taking" drugs in Shen Nong's Classic of Materia Medica].

"Taking drugs for a long term" is a qualitative expression of medication method based on the efficacy and safety of Chinese medicine, and the study on it is conducive to the full utilization of the efficacy and rational use of drugs. There are 148 drugs that can be taken for a long time recorded in Shen Nong's Classic of Materia Medica, accounting for 41% of the total drugs. This paper analyzed three-grade classification, natural qualities, four properties and five flavors, and efficacy features of the "long-term taking" drugs(LTTD), thus exploring the herbal source of traditional Chinese medicine health care and the rationality of effect accumulation by long-term taking. It was found that there were more than 110 top-grade LTTD in Shen Nong's Classic of Materia Medica, most of which were herbs, with sweet flavor, flat property, and no toxicity. The efficacies were mainly making body feel light and agile(Qingshen) and prolonging life. Eighty-three LTTD were included in the Chinese Pharmacopoeia(2020 edition). In the modern classification, tonic LTTD accounted for the most, followed by damp-draining diuretic LTTD and exterior-releasing LTTD. Twenty LTTD were included in the "List of Medicinal and Edible Products" and 21 were in the "List of Products Used for Health-care Food", involving in various modern health care effects, such as enhancing immunity, assisting in reducing blood lipids, and anti-oxidation. Shen Nong's Classic of Materia Medica is the classic source of traditional Chinese medicine health care, and its medication thought of taking drugs for a long term to accumulate effects has guiding significance for the regulation of sub-health and chronic diseases nowadays. The efficacy and safety of LTTD have been examined in practice for a long time, and some of the drugs are edible, which is unique in the whole cycle of health-care service, especially in line with the health-care needs in the aging society under the concept of Big Health. However, some records in the book are limited by the understanding of the times, which should be scientifically studied according to the Chinese Pharmacopoeia and the related regulations and technical requirements, under the attitude of eliminating falsifications and preserving the truth and keeping the right essence, so as to achieve further improvement, innovation, and development.

A clinical study to observe the efficacy and safety of Besunyen Detox Tea for constipation.

INTRODUCTION: Functional constipation (FC) is a common functional gastrointestinal disease and is one of the most common outpatient diseases. The purpose of this study was to investigate the efficacy and safety of the traditional Chinese medicine Besunyen Detox Tea (BDT) for FC and to compare the effect of BDT between constipation patients with and non-dryness-heat syndrome. METHODS AND ANALYSIS: This multicenter, prospective, observational registry study included 1000 participants diagnosed with FC. This study will collaborate with 3 comprehensive hospitals and 15 community hospitals and recruit patients into the registry between July 2022 and July 2023. After enrollment, we will collect the individual characteristics of each patient, anthropometric data and general condition, bowel movement, patient assessment of constipation symptoms, patient assessment of constipation quality of life, TCM syndrome scale, and time to take the laxative product again after treatment. We will also record adverse events and economic indicators at each visit. DISCUSSION: This is the first registry-based study to collect real-world data of participants diagnosed with FC receiving BDT treatment. The results of this registry may also reflect these characteristics and provide direct clinical evidence to verify the importance of syndrome differentiation and treatment for the use of TCM health care products.

Immunomodulatory Effects of Lepidium meyenii Walp. Polysaccharides on an Immunosuppression Model Induced by Cyclophosphamide.

Background: Lepidium meyenii Walp. (Maca) has emerged as a functional plant food and traditional herb owing to its biological activities; Maca polysaccharides as an important active component of Maca have good immunomodulatory effect; however, studies on the immunomodulatory effect of Maca polysaccharides are mainly focused on macrophages; little attention has been devoted to the mechanisms and other immune cells. This study is aimed at investigating the immunomodulatory effects and mechanisms of Maca polysaccharides. Methods: Sixty mice were divided into five groups, and the mice were injected with cyclophosphamide to establish an immunosuppression model except for those in the common group. The body weights were measured, as well as immune-related indices, such as organ indices, haematological parameters, lymphocyte cycle, and proliferation, cytokine, and protein expression levels. Results: The weight loss and immune organ index decline caused by cyclophosphamide could be reversed by MP. Furthermore, MP increased WBC and HGB counts and reduced the ratio of G0/G1 phase obviously, increased the proportion of S phase and G2/M phase in peripheral blood lymphocytes, increased the counts of CD4+ T cells and the ratio of CD4+/CD8+, and reduced the inhibition rate of splenic lymphocytes. MP affected the production of cytokines by increasing IFN-γ, TNF-α, and IL-2 levels and by decreasing IL-4 levels. MP increased the mRNA expression of T-bet and the protein expression of Bcl-2 in the spleen and decreased the protein expression of caspase-3 and Bax. Conclusions: Maca polysaccharides might be the basic material for Maca's immunomodulatory effect. The mechanism was perhaps related to inhibiting lymphocyte apoptosis and promoting the balance of Th1/Th2 cell subsets.

Exploring Molecular Mechanisms of Aloe barbadmsis Miller on Diphenoxylate-Induced Constipation in Mice.

Aloe barbadensis Miller (Aloe) known as a common succulent perennial herb had been traditionally used in constipation for more than 1,000 years. Aloe contained anthraquinones and other active compounds which had laxative effect and could modulate constipation. However, the therapeutic effects and mechanisms of aloe in constipation were still unclear. To explore the therapeutic effects and mechanisms of aloe in treating constipation, we employed network pharmacology, molecular docking, and mice experiments in this study. Our network pharmacology indicated that beta-carotene, sitosterol, campest-5-en-3beta-ol, CLR, arachidonic acid, aloe-emodin, quercetin, and barbaloin were the main active ingredients of aloe in treating constipation. Besides, the MAPK signaling pathway was the principal pathway utilized by aloe in treating constipation. Molecular docking results revealed that beta-carotene and sitosterol were acting as interference factors in attenuating inflammation by binding to an accessory protein of ERK, JNK, AKT, and NF-κB p65. Otherwise, in vivo experiments, we used diphenoxylate-induced constipation mice model to explore the therapeutic effects and mechanisms of aloe. Results showed that aloe modulated the constipation mice by reducing the discharge time of first melena, improving the fecal conditions, increasing the gastric intestinal charcoal transit ratio, and improving the intestinal secretion in small intestine. Besides, aloe played an important regulation in promoting intestinal motility sufficiency and the levels of neurotransmitters balance with 5-HT, SP, and VIP on constipation mice. Moreover, aloe significantly inhibited the mRNA and proteins expressions of ERK, JNK, AKT and NF-κB p65 in colon. Our study proved that aloe could reverse diphenoxylate-induced changes relating to the intestinal motility, intestinal moisture, and inhibition of the MAPK (ERK, JNK)/AKT/NF-κB p65 inflammatory pathway. Our study provided experimental evidences of the laxative effect of aloe, which was beneficial to the further research and development of aloe.

Ameliorative Effect of Ethanolic Echinacea purpurea against Hyperthyroidism-Induced Oxidative Stress via AMRK and PPAR Signal Pathway Using Transcriptomics and Network Pharmacology Analysis.

Echinacea purpurea (L.) Moench (EP) is a well-known botanical supplement with antioxidant characteristics. However, the effects of EP on oxidative stress induced by hyperthyroidism have not yet been studied. This study was designed to evaluate the antioxidative effect of ethanolic Echinacea Purpurea (EEP) on hyperthyroidism-induced oxidative stress mice using an integrated strategy combining transcriptomics with network pharmacology analysis. Firstly, a hyperthyroidism mice model was induced via thyroxine (160 mg/kg) and EEP (1, 2, or 4 g/kg) once daily for 2 weeks. Body weight, thyroid-stimulating hormones, and oxidative stress markers were tested. Secondly, EEP regulating the potential genes at transcript level were analyzed. Thirdly, a network pharmacology based on the constituents of EEP identified using UPLC-Q-TOF-MS analysis was adopted. Finally, a joint analysis was performed to identify the key pathway. The results showed that EEP significantly changed the thyroid-stimulating hormones and oxidative stress markers. Meanwhile, RT-qPCR and Western Blotting demonstrated that the mechanism of the antioxidant effect of EEP reversed the mRNA expression of EHHADH, HMGCR and SLC27A2 and the protein expression of FABP and HMGCR in AMPK and PPAR signaling pathways. This study integrates transcriptomics with network pharmacology to reveal the mechanism of ameliorative effect of EEP on hyperthyroidism-induced oxidative stress.

[Analysis on formulation regularity and characteristics of memory-boosting Chinese medicinal health products and Chinese patent medicines].

The present study analyzed the current Chinese medicinal health products and Chinese patent medicines effective in boosting memory,aiming at providing references for the formulation and development of memory-boosting health products. The information on memory-boosting health products published by the Department of Special Food Safety Supervision and Management,the State Administration for Market Regulation( SAMR) was collected and the Chinese patent medicines on DRUGDATAEXPY were searched. Microsoft Excel and the TCMISS were used to statistically analyze the characteristics of formulations. A total of 212 memory-boosting health products were obtained from SAMR,including 83 ones containing Chinese medicinal materials. Twelve Chinese herbal medicines showed a usage frequency ≥ 8,with 151 times in use. In DRUGDATAEXPY,258 similar Chinese patent medicines were collected.Twelve Chinese herbal medicines showed a usage frequency ≥ 58,with 907 times in use. Through unsupervised hierarchical entropybased clustering of the above-mentioned Chinese medicinal health products and Chinese patent medicines separately,5 and 12 new formulas were obtained. The selection of Chinese herbal medicines for the new formulas was consistent with the principles of traditional Chinese medicine( TCM) theories,i. e.,tonifying kidney and marrow,benefiting Qi,nourishing Yin,resolving phlegm,and eliminating stasis. According to TCM theories,syndrome differentiation of the users was conducted,and the formulas were designed following the correspondence of syndromes with formulas and Chinese herbal medicines. This study is expected to provide new ideas and methods for the development of Chinese medicinal health products and accurately guide practical applications to exert the advantages of TCM in health care based on syndrome differentiation and improve the effect of Chinese medicinal health products.

[Analysis on formulation regularity and characteristics of acne-relieving Chinese medicinal health products and Chinese patent medicines].

This study summarized and analyzed the current acne-relieving Chinese medicinal health products and Chinese patent medicines,aiming at providing references for the formulation and development of acne-relieving health products. The information on acne-relieving health products published by the Department of Special Food Safety Supervision and Management,the State Administration for Market Regulation( SAMR) was retrieved,and the Chinese patent medicines on DRUGDATAEXPY were searched. Microsoft Excel and the Traditional Chinese Medicine Inheritance Support System V2. 5( TCMISS) were employed to statistically analyze the characteristics of formulations. Forty-three acne-relieving health products were obtained,including 40 ones containing Chinese herbal medicines. Six Chinese herbal medicines showed a usage frequency ≥8,with 61 times in use totally,including Salviae Miltiorrhizae Radix et Rhizoma( 13),Lonicerae Japonicae Flos( 12),Taraxaci Herba( 11),ALOE( 9),Carthami Flos( 8),and Rhei Radix et Rhizoma( 8). A total of 29 Chinese patent medicines with similar efficacy were collected in DRUGDATAEXPY. Nine Chinese herbal medicines showed a usage frequency ≥6,with 63 times in use,including Rhei Radix et Rhizoma( 10),Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma( 8),Scutellariae Radix( 8),Lonicerae Japonicae Flos( 7),Angelicae Sinensis Radix( 6),Paeoniae Radix Rubra( 6),Astragali Radix( 6),Paeoniae Radix Alba( 6),and Gardeniae Fructus( 6). Through unsupervised hierarchical entropy-based clustering of the above-mentioned Chinese medicinal health products and Chinese patent medicines,five and three new formulas were obtained,respectively. The selection of Chinese herbal medicines was consistent with the principles of traditional Chinese medicine( TCM) theories in relieving acne,i. e.,dispelling exterior wind,ventilating lungs,clearing heat,dissipating mass,promoting diuresis,relaxing bowels,removing toxin,activating blood,resolving stasis,eliminating phlegm,and regulating Qi. According to the " lung governing skin and body hair" and " interior-exterior relationship between lung and large intestine" in TCM theories,the idea that acne could be treated by relieving constipation was proposed,which provided new methods and references for the research and development of Chinese medicinal health products.

[Discussion on traditional Chinese medicine properties of Myrtus communis leaves based on literature analysis and Chinese medicine theory].

Myrtus communis is a traditional medicinal aromatic plant in the Mediterranean. At present, the plant has been introduced and cultivated in the southern part of China, and it is mostly used for ornamental or cosmetic purposes. Based on literature analysis and the theory of Chinese medicine, we discussed the medicinal parts and properties of M. communis in this paper to provide a theoretical basis for exploring the medicinal value of M. communis and its compatibility with traditional Chinese medicines. Literatures were searched from Web of Science(core collection), PubMed, CNKI, VIP and Wanfang by using the set conditions as key words. Then the obtained literatures were screened and classified. Finally, a total of 376 articles were included, consisting of 44 reviews, 54 germplasm resources, 78 chemical researches, 48 studies on application, extraction, or quality, 18 human trials, 132 pharmacological studies, and 2 safety studies. Based on literature analysis and theories of Chinese medicine, the leaves of M. communis were finally selected as the medicinal part of Chinese medicine, and the traditional Chinese medicine properties of M. communis leaves were deduced as pungent, bitter, and cool. The channel tropisms of M. communis leaves included lung, liver, and large intestine, with functions of detoxifying, resolving a mass, and insecticide. It was used for mouth sores, vaginal itching, hemorrhoids and warts, etc.; appropriate amount shall be applied for external use, and the decoction form shall be used for washing the affected parts; 3-12 g equivalent product shall be used in decoction, and this herb shall be put into the decoction in a later stage. The clarification of the medicinal parts of M. communis, and the determination of the Chinese medicine properties of M. communis leaves would lay a theoretical foundation for its compatibility and application with Chinese medicines, and can do more contribution to the medical and healthcare industry in our country.

[Literature research of Passiflora incarnata and discussion of its traditional Chinese medicine properties].

Based on the research literatures of Passiflora incarnata and the theory of traditional Chinese medicine, the paper discussed the traditional Chinese medicinal properties of P. incarnate, so as to provide a theoretical basis for the compatibility and application of P. incarnata. The literature databases of CNKI, Wanfang, VIP, Web of Science, PubMed and Scopus were selected, and the literatures relating to P. incarnata were reviewed to screen out the scientific research literatures with a high credibility, rational design and reliable conclusions. Foreign pharmacopoeia was consulted, and the listed products were summarized. The traditional Chinese medicine properties of P. incarnata were studied based on 32 clinical trials, 66 pharmacological researches, 64 chemical constituents researches as well as the theory of traditional Chinese medicine. It was preliminarily concluded that the medicinal properties of P. incarnata are sweet, cool, and enter heart, liver channels. The function is mainly to calm the heart and tranquilizing the mind, and calm the liver wind. It is used for hyperactivity of liver-Yang, stagnation of liver-Qi, restlessness of mind, depression, nervousness, insomnia. This paper summarized the source, characteristics of natures, tastes and channel tropism, usage and dosage, function indications of P. incarnata, and defined its clear traditional Chinese medicine property, which lays a theoretical foundation for the compatibility and clinical application of P. incarnata and Chinese medicine.

[Research progress and discussion on traditional Chinese medicine properties of Kaempferia parviflora].

Kaempferiae Parviflorae Rhizoma is the dried rhizome of Kaempferia parviflora in Zingiberaceae. It is originated and widely distributed in Thailand and other tropical and subtropical regions, where it has been used as food and medicine for thousands of years. K. parviflora is also planted in Yunnan and other places of China, but its traditional Chinese medicine properties are not clear, which greatly limits its compatibility with traditional Chinese medicines. In this article, the English and Chinese literatures of K. parviflora were searched from Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, CNKI, Wanfang, and VIP databases for research and analysis. The medicinal properties of K. parviflora were preliminarily discussed based on the theory of traditional Chinese medicine under the guidance of clinical application and research literatures. The traditional Chinese medicine properties of K. parviflora were inferred as follows: flat, acrid, sweet. The channel tropisms of K. parviflora included kidney, spleen, stomach, and liver. The function of K. parviflora included tonifying kidney to strengthen essence, tonifying Qi and invigorating spleen, soothing liver and relieving depression. K. parviflora was clinically applied for the diseases such as syndrome of kidney essence deficiency, sex apathy, deficiency of spleen Qi, lassitude and asthenia, a weary spirit, obesity, diabetes, liver Qi stagnation, depression, and restless. The equivalent of dry power is 1.5 g·d~(-1) and the equivalent of decoction is 1.5-6 g·d~(-1). The determination of traditional Chinese medicine properties of K. parviflora has indeed laid a theoretical foundation for its application in the field of traditional Chinese medicine and enriched traditional Chinese medicine resources.

[Literature research and traditional Chinese medicine properties of Aspalathus linearis].

Aspalathus linearis is a needle-shaped shrub that grows in the Cedarberg mountains in southern South Africa, with an extremely high medicinal value. In 2014, China has approved A. linearis as a new food material. Through retrieval in CNKI, Wanfang, VIP, Web of Science, PubMed and Scopus databases, the literatures were excluded, classified and summarized.On the basis of Chinese medicine theory, the traditional Chinese medicine properties were deducted. Finally, 264 relevant li-teratures were included and classified into 6 categories: review, planting, chemical composition, clinical study, pharmacological effects and safety. The traditional Chinese medicinal properties were deducted as sweet flavor and neutral property. It enters kidney, spleen, heart and liver channels. The major functions are to tonify the kidney and benefit the essence, nourish Qi and spleen, nourish Yin and prompt the production of body fluid, tranquilize mind, and relieve pain. It can be used for soreness of the waist and fatigue, sexual disinterest, limbs heaviness, thirst due to insufficiency of fluid and internal heat, irritability and insomnia, forget fulness, stomachache, joint pain, dysmenorrhea, headache. Preparation for external use can treat eczema itching. Water decoction(2-15 g) can also be used as tea directly. This paper defined the traditional Chinese medicine properties of A. linearis, so as to provide the theoretical basis for further clinical application.

Ganoderma lucidum Spore Polysaccharide Inhibits the Growth of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells by Altering Macrophage Polarity and Induction of Apoptosis.

BACKGROUND: Ganoderma lucidum has certain components with known pharmacological effects, including strengthening immunity and anti-inflammatory activity. G. lucidum seeds inherit all its biological characteristics. G. lucidum spore polysaccharide (GLSP) is the main active ingredient to enhance these effects. However, its specific biological mechanisms are not exact. Our research is aimed at revealing the specific biological mechanism of GLSP to enhance immunity and inhibit the growth of H22 hepatocellular carcinoma cells. METHODS: We extracted primary macrophages (Mø) from BALB/c mice and treated them with GLSP (800 µg/mL, 400 µg/mL, and 200 µg/mL) to observe its effects on macrophage polarization and cytokine secretion. We used GLSP and GLSP-intervened macrophage supernatant to treat H22 tumor cells and observed their effects using MTT and flow cytometry. Moreover, real-time fluorescent quantitative PCR and western blotting were used to observe the effect of GLSP-intervened macrophage supernatant on the PI3K/AKT and mitochondrial apoptosis pathways. RESULTS: In this study, GLSP promoted the polarization of primary macrophages to M1 type and the upregulation of some cytokines such as TNF-α, IL-1ß, IL-6, and TGF-ß1. The MTT assay revealed that GLSP+Mø at 400 µg/mL and 800 µg/mL significantly inhibited H22 cell proliferation in a dose-dependent manner. Flow cytometry analysis revealed that GLSP+Mø induced apoptosis and cell cycle arrest at the G2/M phase, associated with the expression of critical genes and proteins (PI3K, p-AKT, BCL-2, BAX, and caspase-9) that regulate the PI3K/AKT pathway and apoptosis. GLSP reshapes the tumor microenvironment by activating macrophages, promotes the polarization of primary macrophages to M1 type, and promotes the secretion of various inflammatory factors and cytokines. CONCLUSION: Therefore, as a natural nutrient, GLSP is a potential agent in hepatocellular carcinoma cell treatment and induction of apoptosis.

Antidepressant-like effects of albiflorin involved the NO signaling pathway in rats model of chronic restraint stress.

The depressant-like effects of albiflorin (AF) were studied on stressed chronic restraint stress (CRS) rats. Experimental rats were subjected to immobilization stress for a daily 6 h-restraining in a plastic restrainer for continuous 21 d and were treated with 30 or 15 mg·kg-1 of AF for 21 d. Control rats were maintained in completely non stressed conditions. Behavioral tests and biochemical analysis were applied to investigating a regulatory mechanism of anti-stress of AF. Treatment with AF significantly restored the depressant-like behaviors. Besides, AF increased the levels of 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HT), 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5-HIAA), noradrenaline (NE) and dopamine (DA) in the hippocampus and increased the level of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in serum and protein expression in hippocampus. In addition, AF decreased the levels of hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) cascade, reduced the level of NO and cGMP in serum and inhibited the overexpression of 5-HT2AR mRNA and protein expression. Taken together, AF can modulate the NO-mediated network pathway in the hippocampus against stress-induced depressive-like behaviors. These physiological and behavioral changes allow rats to avoid potential deleterious effects of stress that may result from chronically elevated levels of glucocorticosteroids over days.

The effects of aqueous extract of Maca on energy metabolism and immunoregulation.

BACKGROUND: In the present work, we investigated the effects of aqueous extract of Maca (AEM) on energy metabolism and immunoregulation in spleen-deficient mice. METHOD: We established a cyclophosphamide-induced spleen-deficiency model with ginseng, a herb that strengthens splenic function, as a control. Sixty male Kunming mice were randomly divided among 5 groups: normal, model, ginseng control (1.5 g/kg), AEM high dose (1.5 g/kg), and AEM low dose (0.75 g/kg). All animals, except those in the normal group, were injected with cyclophosphamide to induce spleen deficiency. Furthermore, we investigated differences in the thermotropic behaviors of mice using the Animal Thermotropism Behavior Surveillance System to detect energy metabolism-related assays and immune regulation assays. RESULTS: Mice given AEM exhibited tropism in response to hot plate exposure. AEM inhibited loss of body weight and immune organ atrophy caused by cyclophosphamide, increased the cAMP/cGMP ratio in blood, and enhanced the activities of Na+-K+-ATPase, Ca2+-Mg2+-ATPase, lactate dehydrogenase, and hepatic glycogen. AEM significantly reversed declining white blood cells and platelet counts, and increased the hemoglobin content within peripheral blood cells. AEM improved the protein levels of IFN-γ, TNF-ß, IL-2, and IL-4 in the spleen. CONCLUSIONS: Maca possesses the Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) property of warm and appears to strengthen spleen function.

[Construction and application of modern research paradigm of new foreign introducing traditional Chinese medicine].

With the development of society, more and more foreign natural medicines have entered China, but they are faced with the problem that they are not given with the traditional Chinese medicine(TCM) properties when they are used with other TCM. When we carried out the research on introducing foreign natural plant resources to TCM, gradually, a new research model and field with original characteristics of TCM--the study of new foreign introducing TCM had been formed. In the process of it, we explored and summarized research rules to form the research paradigm, which will be conducive to the standardization and scientization of new foreign introducing TCM research. For the research of foreign introducing TCM, we analyzed the research background, reviewed the application history, sorted out the research status, elaborated the concept and summarized the research achievements. On this basis, we put forward the concept and system of the modern research paradigm of new foreign introducing TCM, studied and clarified the core elements, properties and research principles of this paradigm, and summarized the research contents and methods of new foreign introducing TCM. We interpreted the foundation of paradigm construction from multiple perspectives. The paradigm was the practical application of theoretical innovation of TCM. Under the guidance of it, more and more varieties of new foreign introducing TCM will be studied, the study will be more standardized, the conclusions will be more scientific and reliable, which will inspire and guide more researchers to focus on the research of new foreign introducing TCM, and the paradigm itself will be constantly improved. The construction and application of the paradigm will certainly accelerate the innovative research of foreign introducing TCM and play a historic role in promoting the enrichment of traditional Chinese medicine varieties.

[Study on literature of Echinacea purpurea and discussion on its herbalization].

By consulting the literatures of foreign plant medicine Echinacea purpurea at home and abroad, this paper discusses the property and function of E. purpurea from the point of view of traditional Chinese medicine theory, so as to realize "herbalization", provide the theoretical basis of traditional Chinese medicine for the correct clinical application and rational compatibility of E. purpurea, and broaden the scope and varieties of clinical selection of traditional Chinese medicine. Relevant literatures of E. purpurea were selected from PubMed and CNKI databases and classified based on clinical application, chemical composition, pharmacological action, toxic and side effects. Those with a high reliability were screened out, including 313 articles in English and 46 in Chinese. Finally, the basic theory of traditional Chinese medicine was analyzed. In our view, E. purpurea features pungent and bitter tastes and a cold nature, and enters lung, spleen, heart meridians, with effects in evacuating wind-heat, clearing heat and detoxifying, invigorating Qi, strengthening body resistance, and treating wind-heat cold, sore throat swelling pain, cough, heat toxin stagnation, sore carbuncle swelling toxin, red swelling heat pain, body deficiency and multiple diseases, fatigue burnout. This paper analyzes the research literatures of E. purpurea, "herbalize" it, endows it with the property and function of traditional Chinese medicine, lays the foundation for further animal experiment and clinical research, and provides scientific theoretical guidance for the better application of E. purpurea in clinic and its proper compatibility and rational application. This research model will also provide reference for further studies of "traditional Chinese medicine" of foreign plant drugs, enrich traditional Chinese medicine resources, and promote the healthy and sustainable development of traditional Chinese medicine.