Ginseng-derived nanoparticles alleviate inflammatory bowel disease via the TLR4/MAPK and p62/Nrf2/Keap1 pathways.

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is closely linked to the homeostasis of the intestinal environment, and exosomes can be used to treat IBD due to their high biocompatibility and ability to be effectively absorbed by the intestinal tract. However, Ginseng-derived nanoparticles (GDNPs) have not been studied in this context and their mechanism of action remains unclear. Here, we investigated GDNPs ability to mediate intercellular communication in a complex inflammatory microenvironment in order to treat IBD. We found that GDNPs scavenge reactive oxygen species from immune cells and intestinal epithelial cells, inhibit the expression of pro-inflammatory factors, promote the proliferation and differentiation of intestinal stem cells, as well as enhancing the diversity of the intestinal flora. GDNPs significantly stabilise the intestinal barrier thereby promoting tissue repair. Overall, we proved that GDNPs can ameliorate inflammation and oxidative stress in vivo and in vitro, acting on the TLR4/MAPK and p62/Keap1/Nrf2 pathways, and exerting an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effect. GDNPs mitigated IBD in mice by reducing inflammatory factors and improving the intestinal environment. This study offers new evidence of the potential therapeutic effects of GDNPs in the context of IBD, providing the conceptual ground for an alternative therapeutic strategy.

Herbal/Natural Compounds Resist Hallmarks of Brain Aging: From Molecular Mechanisms to Therapeutic Strategies.

Aging is a complex process of impaired physiological integrity and function, and is associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, neurodegeneration, and cancer. The cellular environment of the aging brain exhibits perturbed bioenergetics, impaired adaptive neuroplasticity and flexibility, abnormal neuronal network activity, dysregulated neuronal Ca2+ homeostasis, accumulation of oxidatively modified molecules and organelles, and clear signs of inflammation. These changes make the aging brain susceptible to age-related diseases, such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. In recent years, unprecedented advances have been made in the study of aging, especially the effects of herbal/natural compounds on evolutionarily conserved genetic pathways and biological processes. Here, we provide a comprehensive review of the aging process and age-related diseases, and we discuss the molecular mechanisms underlying the therapeutic properties of herbal/natural compounds against the hallmarks of brain aging.

Pueraria protein extract inhibits melanogenesis and promotes melanoma cell apoptosis through the regulation of MITF and mitochondrial­related pathways.

Pueraria Lobata Radix (P. Lobata Radix) is an edible traditional Chinese medicine that contains various active compounds. Proteins from P. Lobata Radix have become the subject of increased interest in recent years. In evaluating the whitening effect on the skin, the present study found that the P. Lobata Radix water­soluble total protein extract (PLP) had the strongest inhibitory effect on tyrosinase activity. In the present study, the anti­melanogenic effect of PLP and the inhibitory effect on B16 melanoma cells were investigated. PLP significantly reduced the tyrosinase activity and melanin content in B16 melanoma cells. Mechanistically, PLP inhibited melanogenesis by decreasing the expression of tyrosinase, tyrosinase­related protein (TRP)­1 and TRP­2 through downregulation of the microphthalmia­associated transcription factor (MITF) gene, which was mediated by inhibition of p38 mitogen­activated protein kinase signaling. In addition, PLP inhibited cell viability and triggered apoptosis of B16 cells in a dose­dependent manner. Exposure to PLP reduced the mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) and decreased ATP generation, leading to mitochondria­related apoptosis of B16 melanoma cells. The expression levels of succinate dehydrogenase (SDH) and its two related subunits (SDHA and SDHB) were downregulated significantly by PLP, which may be associated with the regulation of mitochondrial energy metabolism by PLP. These results may explain why MMP collapse and reduced ATP generation were observed in B16 melanoma cells treated with PLP. Finally, the present study demonstrated that the inhibition of melanin synthesis by PLP was correlated with the regulation of antioxidant enzymes to reduce reactive oxygen species levels. These results suggested that PLP inhibits melanogenesis by downregulating the expression of MITF­related melanogenic enzymes and triggering apoptosis through mitochondria­related pathways.

Mice kidney biometabolic process analysis after cantharidin exposure using widely-targeted metabolomics combined with network pharmacology.

Cantharidin (CTD) is a principal bioactive component of traditional Chinese medicine Mylabris used in cancer treatment. However, CTD clinical application is limited due to nephrotoxicity, and the mechanism is unknown. The present study used widely-targeted metabolomics, network pharmacology, and cell experiments to investigate the nephrotoxicity mechanism after CTD exposure. In mice exposed to CTD, serum creatinine and urea nitrogen levels increased with renal injury. Then, 74 differential metabolites were detected, including 51 up-regulated and 23 down-regulated metabolites classified as amino acids, small peptides, fatty acyl, arachidonic acid metabolite, organic acid, and nucleotides. Sixteen metabolic pathways including tyrosine, sulfur, and pyrimidine metabolism were all disrupted in the kidney. Furthermore, network pharmacology revealed that 258 metabolic targets, and pathway enrichment indicated that CTD could activate oxidative phosphorylation and oxidative stress (OS). Subsequently, HK-2 cell experiments demonstrated that CTD could reduce superoxide dismutase while increasing malondialdehyde levels. In conclusion, after CTD exposure, biometabolic processes may be disrupted with renal injury in mice, resulting in oxidative phosphorylation and OS.

Ginseng polysaccharide attenuates red blood cells oxidative stress injury by regulating red blood cells glycolysis and liver gluconeogenesis.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Panax ginseng C.A. Mey (PG) is famous for "Qi-tonifying" effect, which has a medicinal history of more than 2 millennia. Modern pharmacology has confirmed that the "Qi-tonifying" effect of PG may be closely related to its pharmacological properties such as anti-oxidation, antineoplastic and treatment of cardiovascular disease. As one of the earliest cells affected by oxidative stress, RBCs are widely used in the diagnosis of diseases. Ginseng polysaccharide (GPS), is one of the major active components of PG, which plays an important role in resisting oxidative stress, affecting energy metabolism and other effects. However, the molecular mechanism explaining the "Qi-tonifying" effect of GPS from the perspective of RBCs oxidative damage has not been reported. AIM OF THE STUDY: This study aimed to investigate the protective effect of GPS on oxidatively damaged RBCs using in vitro and in vivo models and explore the molecular mechanisms from the perspective of glycolysis and gluconeogenesis pathways. To provides a theoretical basis for the future research of antioxidant drugs. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Established three different in vitro and in vivo research models: an in vitro model of RBCs exposed to hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) (40 mM), an in vivo model of RBCs from rats subjected to exhaustive swimming, and an in vitro model of BRL-3A cells exposed to H2O2 (25 µM). All three models were also tested in the presence of different concentrations of GPS. RESULTS: The findings showed that GPS was the most potent antagonist of H2O2-induced hemolysis and redox inbalance in RBCs. In exhaustive exercise rats, GPS ameliorated RBVs hemolysis, including reducing whole-blood viscosity (WBV), improving deformability, oxygen-carrying and -releasing capacities, which was related to the enhancing of antioxidant capacity. Moreover, GPS promoted RBCs glycolysis in rats with exhaustive exercise by recovering the activities of glycolysis-related enzymes and increasing band 3 protein expression, thereby regulating the imbalance of energy metabolism caused by oxidative stress. Furthermore, we demonstrated that GPS improved antioxidant defense system, enhanced energy metabolism, and regulated gluconeogenesis via activating PPAR gamma co-activator 1 alpha (PGC-1α) pathway in H2O2-exposed BRL-3A cells. Mechanistically, GPS promoted glycolysis and protected RBCs from oxidative injury was partly dependent on the regulation of gluconeogenesis, as inhibition of gluconeogenesis by metformin (Met) attenuates the regulation of antioxidant enzymes and key enzymes of glycolytic by GPS in exhaustive exercise rats. CONCLUSION: This study demonstrates that GPS protects RBCs from oxidative stress damage by promoting RBCs glycolysis and liver gluconeogenesis pathways. These results may contribute to the study of new RBCs treatments to boost antioxidant capacity and protect RBCs against oxidative stress.

[Pharmacokinetic interaction of Jiaotai Pills and Fluoxetine in rats with CUMS-induced depression].

A high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry(LC-MS/MS) was developed for simultaneously determining the components(magnoflorine, jatrorrhizine, berberrubine, coptisine, berberine) of Jiaotai Pills and Fluoxetine in plasma of rats with chronic unpredictable mild stress(CUMS)-induced depression to investigate the pharmacokinetic herb-drug interaction of Jiaotai Pills and Fluoxetine in the rats. The six components showed good linear relationship within the corresponding concentration ranges, and the method showed high specificity, accuracy, precision, and stability. Their pharmacokinetic parameters were calculated by DAS 3.2.2, and the results showed that the in vivo metabolic processes of the six components accorded with the characteristics of non-compartmental model. When Jiaotai Pills and Fluoxetine were used together, the AUC_(0-t), AUC_(0-∞), C_(max), and C_(av) of magnoflorine all significantly increased(P<0.05), while the pharmacokinetic trend of berberrubine was opposite to that of magnoflorine, as manifested by the decrease in AUC_(0-t), AUC_(0-∞), T_(max), C_(max), and C_(av)(P<0.01, P<0.05). The pharmacokinetic characteristics of jatrorrhizine, coptisine, and berberine followed the trend of berberrubine. There was no significant difference in the pharmacokinetic characteristics of Fluoxetine in the single or combination groups. This study suggests that the enhanced antidepressant efficacy of Jiaotai Pills and Fluo-xetine may be attributed to the pharmacokinetic interaction.

Huanglian ointment alleviates eczema by maintaining the balance of c-Jun and JunB and inhibiting AGE-RAGE-mediated pro-inflammation signaling pathway.

BACKGROUND: Huanglian ointment exhibits clinical efficacy for repairing skin barriers and inhibiting skin inflammation, and has been used to ameliorate eczema for many years. However, the active components and mechanism of Huanglian ointment have not yet been elucidated. PURPOSE: This study aimed to demonstrate the main active components and molecular mechanisms of Huanglian ointment for the treatment of eczema. METHODS: The main active components of Huanglian ointment were identified by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Network pharmacology approach and molecular docking techniques to predict the potential molecular mechanisms of Huanglian ointment alleviating eczema. Furthermore, Biostir-AD®-induced guinea pigs and tumor necrosis α (TNF-α)/interferon γ (IFN-γ)-induced HaCaT cells were employed to investigate the effectiveness and mechanisms of Huanglian ointment using histopathological staining, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, MTT assay, and western blot analysis. RESULTS: Fourteen chemistry components were identified in Huanglian ointment. In total, 78 intersecting gene targets were identified between Huanglian ointment and eczema, including Jun, inflammatory regulators, and chemokine factors. Intersecting gene targets were enriched for cytokine and chemokine receptor binding, and inflammatory related signaling pathways. The molecular docking results showed that the identified components had a stable binding conformation with core targets. In vivo experiments showed that Huanglian ointment markedly ameliorated eczema-like skin lesions, restored histopathological morphology, and decreased levels of TNF-α, IFN-γ, and interleukin 6. Moreover, Huanglian ointment effectively protected HaCaT cells against TNF-α/IFN-γ-induced cell death and overproduction of thymus- and activation-regulated chemokine, macrophage-derived chemokine, and regulated upon activation normal T cell-expressed and secreted factor. Subsequently, we found that Huanglian ointment repaired skin barriers by affecting c-Jun, JunB, and filaggrin expression, and suppressed inflammatory response by inhibiting AGE-RAGE signaling pathway, both in vivo and in vitro. CONCLUSION: Our results demonstrated that Huanglian ointment repaired skin barriers and inhibited inflammation by maintaining the balance of c-Jun and JunB, and suppressing AGE-RAGE signaling pathway, thereby relieving eczema. These findings providing a molecular basis for treatment of eczema by Huanglian ointment.

Studies on the Regulation and Molecular Mechanism of Panax Ginseng Saponins on Senescence and Related Behaviors of Drosophila melanogaster.

In an increasingly aged global population, achieving healthy life expectancy through natural and safe drug interventions is highly desirable. Here we show that total ginsenosides (TGGR), the main active components in the traditional Chinese medicine, ginseng, promote longevity across species. In Drosophila, an intriguing effect of TGGR on lifespan was the relatively narrow treatment window to elicit long-term benefits. TGGR administration during early adulthood, and especially during midlife, was sufficient to extend lifespan in both sexes. TGGR did not increase lifespan by reducing food intake or reproductive capacity; rather, TGGR increased the fertility of male Drosophila. TGGR augmented healthspan readouts associated with youth and with healthy aging, such as motility, intestinal barrier integrity, and biorhythm homeostasis. TGGR treatment also improved some types of stress resistance in both sexes, including increased tolerance to starvation and oxidation, and shifting "aged" gene expression patterns toward "healthy" patterns seen in the young. Gene expression, pharmacological and genetic epistatic analyses demonstrated that TGGR effects require normal expression of genes involved in insulin, TOR and MAPK signaling. The positive effects of TGGR on both healthspan and lifespan, coupled with its mechanism of action via evolutionarily conserved signaling pathways, demonstrate it to be a promising anti-aging drug.

Network Pharmacological Study on Mechanism of the Therapeutic Effect of Modified Duhuo Jisheng Decoction in Osteoporosis.

Background: Modified Duhuo Jisheng Decoction (MDHJSD) is a traditional Chinese medicine prescription for the treatment of osteoporosis (OP), but its mechanism of action has not yet been clarified. This study aims to explore the mechanism of MDHJSD in OP through a combination of network pharmacology analysis and experimental verification. Methods: The active ingredients and corresponding targets of MDHJSD were acquired from the Traditional Chinese Medicine System Pharmacology (TCMSP) database. OP-related targets were acquired from databases, including Genecards, OMIM, Drugbank, CTD, and PGKB. The key compounds, core targets, major biological processes, and signaling pathways of MDHJSD that improve OP were identified by constructing and analysing the relevant networks. The binding affinities between key compounds and core targets were verified using AutoDock Vina software. A rat model of ovariectomized OP was used for the experimental verification. Results: A total of 100 chemical constituents, 277 targets, and 4734 OP-related targets of MDHJSD were obtained. Subsequently, five core components and eight core targets were identified in the analysis. Pathway enrichment analysis revealed that overlapping targets were significantly enriched in the tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) signaling pathway, an inflammation signaling pathway, which contained six of the eight core targets, including TNF-α, interleukin 6 (IL-6), transcription factor AP-1, mitogen-activated protein kinase 3, RAC-alpha serine/threonine-protein kinase, and caspase-3 (CASP3). Molecular docking analysis revealed close binding of the six core targets of the TNF signaling pathway to the core components. The results of experimental study show that MDHJSD can protect bone loss, inhibit the inflammatory response, and downregulate the expression levels of TNF-α, IL-6, and CASP3 in ovariectomized rats. Conclusion: The mechanism of MDHJSD in the treatment of OP may be related to the regulation of the inflammatory response in the bone tissue.

Forsythiaside A Regulates Activation of Hepatic Stellate Cells by Inhibiting NOX4-Dependent ROS.

Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) activation is an important step in the process of hepatic fibrosis. NOX4 and reactive oxygen species expressed in HSCs play an important role in liver fibrosis. Forsythiaside A (FA), a phenylethanoid glycoside extracted and isolated from Forsythiae Fructus, has significant antioxidant activities. However, it is not clear whether FA can play a role in inhibiting the HSCs activation through regulating NOX4/ROS pathway. Therefore, our purpose is to explore the effect and mechanism of FA on HSCs activation to alleviate liver fibrosis. LX2 cells were activated by TGF-ß1 in vitro. MTT assay and Wound Healing assay were used to investigate the effect of FA on TGF-ß1-induced LX2 cell proliferation and migration. Elisa kit was used to measure the expression of MMP-1 and TIMP-1. Western blot and RT-qPCR were used to investigate the expression of fibrosis-related COLI, α-SMA, MMP-1 and TIMP-1, and inflammation-related TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-1ß. The hydroxyproline content was characterized using a biochemical kit. The mechanism of FA to inhibit HSCs activation and apoptosis was detected by DCF-DA probe, RT-qPCR, western blot and flow cytometry. NOX4 siRNA was used to futher verify the effect of FA on NOX4/ROS pathway. The results showed that FA inhibited the proliferation and migration of LX2 cells and adjusted the expression of MMP-1, TIMP-1, COLI, α-SMA, TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-1ß as well as promoted collagen metabolism to show potential in anti-hepatic fibrosis. Mechanically, FA down-regulated NOX4/ROS signaling pathway to improve oxidation imbalances, and subsequently inhibited PI3K/Akt pathway to suppress proliferation. FA also promoted the apoptosis of LX2 cells by Bax/Bcl2 pathway. Furthermore, the effects of FA on TGF-ß1-induced increased ROS levels and α-SMA and COLI expression were weaken by silencing NOX4. In conclusion, FA had potential in anti-hepatic fibrosis at least in part by remolding of extracellular matrix and improving oxidation imbalances to inhibit the activation of HSCs and promote HSCs apoptosis.

Ginseng root extract attenuates inflammation by inhibiting the MAPK/NF-κB signaling pathway and activating autophagy and p62-Nrf2-Keap1 signaling in vitro and in vivo.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Panax ginseng C.A. Meyer is a type of herbal plant that has frequently been used in many Asian countries to treat a variety of diseases. Ginseng is considered to exhibit anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative pharmacological effects. However, the specific mechanism is still not entirely understood. AIM OF THE STUDY: In this study, we investigated if ginseng extract could attenuate inflammation and oxidative stress in RAW264.7 cells and in dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis mouse model. MATERIALS AND METHODS: RAW264.7 cells and LPS were used to develop inflammatory and oxidative cell models. C57/6J male mice and DSS were used to construct the animal models. O2-, mitochondria number, and mitochondrial membrane potential were analyzed using fluorescent probes and fluorescence microscopy. Reactive oxygen species and nitric oxide generation were detected with probes and microplate readers. The secreted amounts of inflammatory cytokines were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kits. Protein expression levels in the cytoplasm and nucleus were measured by western blotting analyses. Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) was used to determine the changes in mRNA levels. Autophagosome accumulation was analyzed by transmission electron microscopy. A p62-specific siRNA was used to evaluate the effect of p62 on the anti-oxidative function of ginseng root extract (GRE). Asperuloside and SP600125 were used to confirm the involvement of the MAPK/NF-κB signaling pathway. RESULTS: We performed a systematic analysis of the anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative, and autophagy regulatory mechanisms of GRE in LPS-treated RAW264.7 cells. GRE considerably reduced the levels of nitric oxide, TNF-α, and IL-6 secreted by LPS-treated cells. GRE treatments dose-dependently upregulated IL-10 mRNA levels and decreased IL-6 and IL-1ß mRNA levels in LPS-treated cells. Similar to the NF-κB and JNK inhibitors, GRE treatment significantly inhibited NF-κB activity and phosphorylation of MAPKs (JNK, ERK-1/2, and p38). Additionally, GRE treatment remarkably decreased LPS-triggered reactive oxygen species production and mitochondrial dysfunction by motivating Nrf2 nuclear translocation by enhancing phosphorylated p62. Knockdown of p62 resulted in the loss of GRE anti-oxidative ability. Autophagy was strongly induced by GRE via the Akt-mTOR signaling pathway, relieving excessive oxidation, mitochondrial dysfunction, and inflammation, while enhancing Beclin-1, LC3 II, and Atg7 protein expression. Furthermore, GRE alleviated the degree of injury, inflammatory cytokine production, and regulated the relative signaling pathway in DSS-induced colitis. CONCLUSIONS: GRE can exert both anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative functions by targeting the MAPK/NF-κB and p62-Nrf2-Keap1 pathways, as well as autophagy, in vitro and vivo.

[Effects of Jiaotai Pills on CUMS-induced depression model in mice based on changes of SIRT1 expression in hippocampus].

The present study investigated the effects and mechanisms of Jiaotai Pills on depressed mice induced by chronic unpredictable mild stress(CUMS). The CUMS-induced depression model mice were established and the depression behaviors of mice were evaluated by sucrose preference test, open field test, tail suspension test, and forced swimming test. Molecular docking was employed to simulate the interaction of six main active ingredients in Jiaotai Pills with SIRT1. Immunohistochemical staining was used to detect the level of SIRT1 in the hippocampus of mice. Western blot was used to detect the protein expression levels of SIRT1, p-NF-κB p65, NF-κB p65, and FoxO1 in the hippocampus of mice. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay(ELISA) kits were used to detect the levels of interleukin(IL)-1ß, IL-6, tumor necrosis factor-α(TNF-α), and brain-derived neurotrophic factor(BDNF) in the hippocampus and serum of mice. Biochemical kits were used to detect superoxide dismutase(SOD) activity and malondialdehyde(MDA) and glutathione(GSH) levels in the hippocampus and serum of mice. Liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry(LC-MS/MS) was used to detect the levels of dopamine(DA), 5-hydroxytryptamine(5-HT), and norepinephrine(NE) in the hippocampus and serum of mice. The results showed that the sucrose preference rate, movement distance, and the number of crossing centers were reduced in the model group(P<0.01), and the tail suspension time and swimming immobility time were increased(P<0.01). Molecular docking results indicated good binding of six main active ingredients in Jiaotai Pills to SIRT1. In the hippocampus, the expression level of SIRT1 was reduced(P<0.01), and the levels of p-NF-κB p65/NF-κB p65 and FoxO1 were increased(P<0.01). In the hippocampus and serum, the levels of IL-1ß, IL-6, TNF-α, and MDA were increased(P<0.01), and the activity of SOD and the levels of GSH, DA, 5-HT, NE, and BDNF were reduced(P<0.01). The treatment with high-dose Jiaotai Pills increased the sucrose preference rate, movement distance, and the number of crossing centers(P<0.05), reduced tail suspension time and swimming immobility time(P<0.01), elevated hippocampal SIRT1 expression level(P<0.01), decreased hippocampal and serum IL-1ß, IL-6, TNF-α, and MDA levels(P<0.01), potentiated SOD activity, and up-regulated GSH, DA, 5-HT, NE, and BDNF levels in the hippocampus and serum(P<0.05, P<0.01) in model mice. In conclusion, the results showed that Jiaotai Pills could improve the depression behaviors of model mice with CUMS-induced depression, and the underlying mechanism was related to the up-regulation of SIRT1 in the hippocampus of mice to exert anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative stress effects.

The pharmacological activity of berberine, a review for liver protection.

Liver plays an important role in bile synthesis, metabolic function, degradation of toxins, new substances synthesis in body. However, hepatopathy morbidity and mortality are increasing year by year around the world, which become a major public health problem. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has a prominent role in the treatment of liver diseases due to its definite curative effect and small side effects. The hepatoprotective effect of berberine has been extensively studied, so we comprehensively summarize the pharmacological activities of lipid metabolism regulation, bile acid adjustment, anti-inflammation, oxidation resistance, anti-fibrosis and anti-cancer and so on. Besides, the metabolism and toxicity of berberine and its new formulations to improve its effectiveness are expounded, providing a reference for the safe and effective clinical use of berberine.

Quercetin mitigates ethanol-induced hepatic steatosis in zebrafish via P2X7R-mediated PI3K/ Keap1/Nrf2 signaling pathway.

Ethnopharmacological relevanceQuercetin is the active component of the higher content in PCP, which exerts various biological activities such as anti-obesity effect, anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant activities in alcoholic liver disease (ALD). AIM OF THE STUDY: P2X7 receptor (P2X7R) plays an important role in health and disease, which can be activated by extracellular ATP to induce a variety of downstream events, including lipid metabolism, inflammatory molecule release, oxidative stress. However, whether the mechanism of quercetin on ethanol-induced hepatic steatosis via P2X7R-mediated haven't been elucidated. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Zebrafish transgenic (fabp10: EGFP) larvae were treated with 100 µM, 50 µM, 25 µM quercetin for 48 h at 3 days post fertilization (dpf), then soaked in 350 mmol/L ethanol for 32 h, treated with 1 mM ATP (P2X7R activator) for 30min. Serum lipids, liver steatosis, oxidative stress factors were respectively detected. The mRNA levels in the related pathways were measured by quantitative Real-Time PCR (RT-qPCR) to investigate the mechanisms. RESULTS: Quercetin improved the liver function via decreasing ALT, AST and γ-GT level of zebrafish with acute ethanol-induced hepatic steatosis and attenuated hepatic TG, TC accumulation. Additionally, quercetin significantly reduced the MDA content and suppressed the ethanol-induced reduction of hepatic oxidative stress biomarkers GSH, CAT and SOD and significantly down-regulated the expression of P2X7R, and up-regulated the expression of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K), Kelch like ECH associated protein1 (Keap1), Nuclear Factor E2 related factor 2 (Nrf2). Moreover, ATP stimulation activated P2X7R, which further mediated the mRNA expressions of PI3K, Keap1 and Nrf2. CONCLUSION: Quercetin exhibited hepatoprotective capacity in zebrafish model, via regulating P2X7R-mediated PI3K/Keap1/Nrf2 oxidative stress signaling pathway.

An Overview of the Mechanism of Penthorum chinense Pursh on Alcoholic Fatty Liver.

Alcohol liver disease (ALD) caused by excessive alcohol consumption is a progressive disease, and alcohol fatty liver disease is the primary stage. Currently, there is no approved drug for its treatment. Abstinence is the best way to heal, but patients' compliance is poor. Unlike other chronic diseases, alcohol fatty liver disease is not caused by nutritional deficiencies; it is caused by the molecular action of ingested alcohol and its metabolites. More and more studies have shown the potential of Penthorum chinense Pursh (PCP) in the clinical use of alcohol fatty liver treatment. The purpose of this paper is to reveal from the essence of PCP treatment of alcohol liver mechanism mainly by the ethanol dehydrogenase (ADH) and microsomal ethanol oxidation system-dependent cytochrome P4502E1 (CYP2E1) to exert antilipogenesis, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiapoptotic, and autophagy effects, with special emphasis on its mechanisms related to SIRT1/AMPK, KEAP-1/Nrf2, and TLR4/NF-κB. Overall, data from the literature shows that PCP appears to be a promising hepatoprotective traditional Chinese medicine (TCM).

Herbal formula Renshenwuweizi decoction induces p53-mediated cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in A549 cells.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effect of Renshenwuweizi decoction (RSWWZ decoction) on the growth of non-small cell lung cancer cells in vitro. METHODS: A549 non-small cell lung cancer cells were divided into two groups: control and RSWWZ decoction treatment groups. Cell Counting Kit-8 was used to measure the inhibitory effect of RSWWZ decoction on the growth of A549 cells. 4', 6-diamidino-2-phenylindole staining and Annexin V-fluorescein isothiocyanate/propidium iodide double staining were used to investigate apoptosis in A549 cells following RSWWZ decoction treatment, and the mitochondrial membrane potential of treated cells was detected with Rhodamine 123. Cell cycle progression was analyzed by flow cytometry. The mRNA levels of p53, Bax, B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2) and p21 were measured by quantitative real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. The protein expressions of p53, Bax, Bcl-2, p21, cyclin-dependent kinases 2 (CDK2), and cyclin A were detected by Western blot. RESULTS: RSWWZ decoction reduced the viability of A549 cells in a dose-dependent manner by inducing apoptosis and decreased mitochondrial membrane potential. RSWWZ decoction increased p53 and Bax expression and decreased Bcl-2 expression in a dose-dependent manner. RSWWZ decoction also induced an S-phase cell cycle arrest by increasing p21 and decreasing cyclin A and CDK2 expression. CONCLUSION: In vitro experiments revealed that the Renshenwuweizi decoction-induced decrease in A549 cell proliferation was achieved by inducing apoptosis and S-phase cell cycle arrest via the p53 pathway. These findings provide the experimental basis for Renshenwuweizi decoction treatment of lung cancer.

The cold-soaking extract of Chinese yam (Dioscorea opposita Thunb.) protects against erectile dysfunction by ameliorating testicular function in hydrocortisone-induced KDS-Yang rats and in oxidatively damaged TM3 cells.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Clinical applications and pharmacological research suggest that Dioscorea opposita Thunb. (Chinese yam), a well-known traditional Chinese medicine which has been used for more than 2000 years to nourish kidney-yang and protect the male reproductive system, might be efficacious for the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED). AIM OF THE STUDY: This study aimed to investigate the active component extract of Chinese yam, determine its effectiveness in hydrocortisone-induced "kidney-yang deficiency syndrome" (KDS-Yang) rats and in oxidatively damaged TM3 cells and explore the underlying mechanism on restoring erectile function. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We clarified the Chinese yam cold-soaking extract (CYCSE) as the main active extract of Chinese yam by a CCK8 assay and further identified its composition. The KDS-Yang rats were induced by intragastric administration of hydrocortisone. After 10 d of CYCSE intervention, cavernous and testis morphology were stained with hematoxylin and eosin. Inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP), testosterone, 8-hydroxy-2-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kits. Leydig cells were performed using immunohistochemistry. Reactive oxygen species were measured using a DCFH-DA fluorescent probe, and testicular collagenous fibers were stained with a Masson kit. Detection of testicular apoptosis was performed by a TUNEL assay. Nrf2 and NQO1 mRNA expression levels were measured by qRT-PCR. The protein expression levels of Nrf2, HO-1, TGF-ß1 and SMAD2/3 were analyzed by Western blot. RESULTS: We demonstrated in KDS-Yang rats and oxidatively damaged TM3 cells that CYCSE successfully restored erectile function through ameliorating testicular function. Our data suggested that CYCSE can stimulate the NO/cGMP pathway and restore the cavernous morphology to protect against KDS-Yang-induced ED. It also protected testis morphology, increased Leydig cell proliferation and stimulated testosterone secretion. In the damaged testes, excessive increases in 8-OHdG and inhibition of SOD activity were ameliorated, and the Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway was enhanced after treatment with CYCSE, indicating that the antioxidant defense system was activated. These findings were also validated in vitro. Additionally, fibrosis of the testes and TM3 cells was reversed by CYCSE through the TGF-ß1/SMAD2/3 pathway. CONCLUSION: CYCSE has a therapeutic effect on KDS-Yang-induced ED, and the mechanism includes stimulation of testosterone secretion, resistance to oxidative stress and prevention of fibrosis. These findings provide a new scientific verification for the application of Chinese yam in the treatment of KDS-Yang-induced ED.

A Candidate Drug for Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: A Review of Pharmacological Activities of Polygoni Multiflori Radix.

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, a type of metabolic syndrome, continues to rise globally. Currently, there is no approved drug for its treatment. Improving lifestyle and exercise can alleviate symptoms, but patients' compliance is poor. More and more studies have shown the potential of Polygoni Multiflori Radix (PMR) in the treatment of NAFLD and metabolic syndrome. Therefore, this paper reviews the pharmacological effects of PMR and its main chemical components (tetrahydroxystilbene glucoside, emodin, and resveratrol) on NAFLD. PMR can inhibit the production of fatty acids and promote the decomposition of triglycerides, reduce inflammation, and inhibit the occurrence of liver fibrosis. At the same time, it maintains an oxidation equilibrium status in the body, to achieve the therapeutic purpose of NAFLD and metabolic syndrome. Although more standardized studies and clinical trials are needed to confirm its efficacy, PMR may be a potential drug for the treatment of NAFLD and its complications. However, the occurrence of adverse reactions of PMR has affected its extensive clinical application. Therefore, it is necessary to further study its toxicity mechanism, enhance efficacy and control toxicity, and even reduce toxicity, which will contribute to the safe clinical use of PMR.

Ginseng protein protects against mitochondrial dysfunction and neurodegeneration by inducing mitochondrial unfolded protein response in Drosophila melanogaster PINK1 model of Parkinson's disease.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Historical literature and pharmacological studies demonstrate that ginseng, one of the most popular herbal medicines in China, holds potential benefits for Parkinson's disease (PD). AIM OF THE STUDY: Studies in Drosophila melanogaster (Dm) have highlighted mitochondrial dysfunction upon loss of PTEN-induced putative kinase 1 (PINK1) as a central mechanism of PD pathogenesis. Using PINK1B9 mutant Dm, we aimed to explore the therapeutic action of ginseng total protein (GTP) on PD and provide in-depth scientific interpretation about the traditional efficacy of ginseng. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We first used gel chromatography to purify GTP and confirmed its molecular weight by SDS-PAGE. Effects of GTP on PINK1B9 mutants, which were supplied with standard diet from larvae to adult stages, were assayed in flies aged 3-6 (I), 10-15 (II), and 20-25 (III) days. Parkinson-like phenotypes were analyzed by evaluating lifespan, dopaminergic neurons, dopamine levels, and locomotor ability. Mitochondrial function was assessed by evaluating ATP production, respirometry, and mitochondrial DNA. In addition, reactive oxygen species were measured using dihydroethidium and 2',7'-dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate staining. PD-related oxidative stress was simulated by paraquat and rotenone, and mitochondrial membrane potential was measured using JC-10 reagent. Protein and mRNA expression was detected by Western blot and real-time quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, respectively. RESULTS: This study demonstrates for the first time that GTP treatment delays the onset of a Parkinson-like phenotype in PINK1B9 Dm, including prolongation of lifespan and rescue of climbing ability, as well as rescue of the progressive loss of a cluster of dopaminergic neurons in the protocerebral posterior lateral 1 region, which was accompanied by a significant increase of dopamine content in the brain. In addition, GTP notably reduced the penetrance of abnormal wing position, indicating a strong inhibitory effect on indirect flight muscle degeneration. We further showed that GTP could promote maintenance of mitochondrial function and protect mitochondria from PD-associated oxidative stress by activating the mitochondrial unfolded protein response (UPRmt). CONCLUSIONS: GTP protected against mitochondrial dysfunction and neurodegeneration by inducing UPRmt in the Dm PINK1B9 model of PD. Our results suggest that GTP is a promising candidate for PD, and reveal a new mechanism by which ginseng is neuroprotective.

Synergistic effect of Aconiti Lateralis Radix Praeparata water-soluble alkaloids and Ginseng Radix et Rhizoma total ginsenosides compatibility on acute heart failure rats.

The aim of this study was to investigate the synergistic effect and underlying mechanism of compatibility of Aconiti Lateralis Radix Praeparata water-soluble alkaloids (FWA) and Ginseng Radix et Rhizoma total ginsenosides (RTG) on propafenone hydrochloride induced acute heart failure (AHF) rats. Firstly, hemodynamics and serum biochemical indexes were measured to observe the therapeutic effect of FWA, RTG and their compatibility on AHF rats. Non-target serum metabolomics and multicomponent pharmacokinetic experiments were then performed to reveal the mechanism from the two aspects of body reaction and drug behavior in vivo. Data showed the haemodynamics indexes (maximum change rate of left ventricular pressure, heart rate) and neuroendocrine cytokines (TNF-α and Nt-proBNP) levels in rats treated by compatibility of FWA and RTG were improved more significantly than that treated by single drug. Through metabolomics analysis, six metabolites, including L-pipecolic acid, L-arginine, uric acid, N-benzoylglycine, sphingosine-1-phosphate and phosphatidylinositol lyso 16:0, were selected and identified as the potential biomarkers of the synergistic effect. Furthermore, lysine degradation, arginine and proline metabolism, purine metabolism, sphingolipid metabolism, etc. were the differential pathways involved. The results of pharmacokinetics showed Cmax, AUClast and t1/2 of the four components (uracil, salsolinol, guanosine, higenamine) of FWA in compatibility group were obviously higher than that in single drug group, which indicated the absorption and bioavailability of these alkaloids were increased, and the residence time was prolonged after FWA combined with RTG. In conclusion, the therapeutic effect of FWA-RTG on AHF rats was enhanced and that might because the compatibility of FWA-RTG affected the process of some metabolites in AHF rats, and pharmacokinetic behavior of components in FWA was obviously influenced after co-administered with RTG.