A chromosome-level genome reveals genome evolution and molecular basis of anthraquinone biosynthesis in Rheum palmatum.

BACKGROUND: Rhubarb is one of common traditional Chinese medicine with a diverse array of therapeutic efficacies. Despite its widespread use, molecular research into rhubarb remains limited, constraining our comprehension of the geoherbalism. RESULTS: We assembled the genome of Rheum palmatum L., one of the source plants of rhubarb, to elucidate its genome evolution and unpack the biosynthetic pathways of its bioactive compounds using a combination of PacBio HiFi, Oxford Nanopore, Illumina, and Hi-C scaffolding approaches. Around 2.8 Gb genome was obtained after assembly with more than 99.9% sequences anchored to 11 pseudochromosomes (scaffold N50 = 259.19 Mb). Transposable elements (TE) with a continuous expansion of long terminal repeat retrotransposons (LTRs) is predominant in genome size, contributing to the genome expansion of R. palmatum. Totally 30,480 genes were predicted to be protein-coding genes with 473 significantly expanded gene families enriched in diverse pathways associated with high-altitude adaptation for this species. Two successive rounds of whole genome duplication event (WGD) shared by Fagopyrum tataricum and R. palmatum were confirmed. We also identified 54 genes involved in anthraquinone biosynthesis and other 97 genes entangled in flavonoid biosynthesis. Notably, RpALS emerged as a compelling candidate gene for the octaketide biosynthesis after the key residual screening. CONCLUSION: Overall, our findings offer not only an enhanced understanding of this remarkable medicinal plant but also pave the way for future innovations in its genetic breeding, molecular design, and functional genomic studies.

[Effect of Spatholobi Caulis extract from ethyl acetate on immune killing function of NK cells].

This study aims to investigate the regulatory effect of the Spatholobi Caulis extract from ethyl acetate(SEA) on natural killer(NK) cells under physiological conditions and elucidate the underlying mechanism. The C57BL/6 mice were randomized into NC and SEA groups, and NK-92 cells were respectively treated with 0, 25, 50, and 100 µg·mL~(-1) SEA. The body weight and immune organ index of the mice were compared between groups. The lactate dehydrogenase(LDH) assay was employed to examine the cytotoxicity of NK-92 cells treated with SEA and the killing activity of mouse NK cells against YAC-1 cells. The cell-counting kit-8(CCK-8) was used to examine the impact of SEA on the proliferation of NK-92 cells. Flow cytometry was employed to measure the number of NK cells in the peripheral blood as well as the expression levels of natural killer group 2 member A(NKG2A) and natural killer group 2 member D(NKG2D). The enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay(ELISA) was performed to determine the interferon(IFN)-γ secretion in the serum. Semi-quantitative PCR was conducted to determine the mRNA levels of NKG2A, NKG2D, and IFN-γ in spleen cells. Western blot was employed to investigate the involvement of phosphoinositide 3-kinase(PI3K)/extracellular regulated protein kinase 1(ERK1) signaling pathway. The results showed that SEA exhibited no adverse effects on the body, while significantly enhance the number of NK cells and augment the cytotoxicity of NK-92 cells against YAC-1 cells. Moreover, it suppressed the expression of NKG2A, enhanced the expression of NKG2D, promoted IFN-γ secretion, and upregulated the protein levels of PI3K and ERK. The findings suggest that SEA has the potential to enhance the immune recognition and effector function of NK cells by increasing the cell number, modulating the expression of functional receptors, and promoting IFN-γ secretion via the PI3K/ERK signaling pathway.

The Clinical Efficacy of Combining Ambroxol Hydrochloride with Antibiotics for the Treatment of Chronic Bronchitis.

Objective: To evaluate the clinical efficacy and impact on pulmonary function of ambroxol hydrochloride combined with antibiotics in the treatment of chronic bronchitis. Methods: This randomized controlled trial involved the enrollment and randomization of 98 CB patients admitted to Anting Hospital from January 2020 to January 2021, with participants divided into an observation group and a control group at a 1:1 ratio, comprising 49 cases in each group. The control group received cefmetazole alone, whereas the observation group received ambroxol hydrochloride combined with antibiotics. The two groups were compared in terms of time required for mitigation of clinical symptoms, clinical effectiveness, and indicators for pulmonary function. Results: The observation group showed a reduction in symptom disappearance time by 3.3 days and a 9% higher total effective rate compared to the control group. After treatment, the observation group had elevated FEV1 (22.64%), FVC (31.64%), and FEV1/FVC (9.79%) compared with the control group. Conclusion: Ambroxol hydrochloride combined antibiotics are effective in the treatment of CB, indicating potential for enhanced quality of life and reduced disease burden for patients with chronic bronchitis.

[Natural 5α-reductase inhibitors in treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia].

Benign prostatic hyperplasia(BPH) is a common disease of the male urinary system, and its incidence rate in China is increasing. However, the mechanism underlying the pathogenesis of BPH remains unclear. Some studies demonstrated that the incidence of BPH was related to the change in the levels of steroid hormones. Too high content of dihydrotestosterone(DHT) in the body may cause BPH and other related diseases. Testosterone(T) is converted to DHT by 5α-reductase(SRD5A). By inhibiting the activity of this enzyme, the production of DHT can be reduced, and then the incidence of BPH can be lowered. Therefore, it has drawn great attention to screen and discover safer and more effective 5α-reductase inhibitors from natural medicines to treat prostatic hyperplasia without affecting the physiological function of men. This review summarizes the characteristics and tissue distribution of 5α-reductase, the discovery of 5α-reductase inhibitors in traditional Chinese medicine and natural medicines, 5α-reductase inhibitors commonly used in clinical practice and their side effects, as well as the animal models of prostatic hyperplasia and common detection indicators, aiming to provide a reference for more in-depth understanding and research about BPH and development of drugs.

Notoginsenoside Ft1 inhibits colorectal cancer growth by increasing CD8+ T cell proportion in tumor-bearing mice through the USP9X signaling pathway.

The management of colorectal cancer (CRC) poses a significant challenge, necessitating the development of innovative and effective therapeutics. Our research has shown that notoginsenoside Ft1 (Ng-Ft1), a small molecule, markedly inhibits subcutaneous tumor formation in CRC and enhances the proportion of CD8+ T cells in tumor-bearing mice, thus restraining tumor growth. Investigation into the mechanism revealed that Ng-Ft1 selectively targets the deubiquitination enzyme USP9X, undermining its role in shielding ß-catenin. This leads to a reduction in the expression of downstream effectors in the Wnt signaling pathway. These findings indicate that Ng-Ft1 could be a promising small-molecule treatment for CRC, working by blocking tumor progression via the Wnt signaling pathway and augmenting CD8+ T cell prevalence within the tumor environment.

Development and validation of a dried blood spots assay for metabolic profiling of ginsenosides using ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Panax ginseng C.A. Meyer., a famous and valuable traditional Chinese medicine with thousand years of history for its healthcare and therapeutic effects. It is necessary and meaningful to study the pharmacokinetic behavior of ginsenosides in vivo as they are the most active components. Dried blood spots (DBS) are a mature and advanced blood collection method with meet the needs for the measurement of numerous analytes. AIM OF THE STUDY: This study aimed to explore the feasibility on DBS in the metabolic profile analysis of complex herbal products. MATERIALS AND METHODS: An ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS) method was developed and validated for the determination of ginsenosides. The preparation of DBS samples was conducted by spiking the whole blood with analytes to obtain 20 µL of blood spots on Whatman 903 collection card. A punched dish of 10 mm in diameter was extracted with 70 % methanol aqueous solution, digoxin was used as an internal standard. Target compounds were separated on a Waters T3 column (2.1 × 100 mm, 1.8 µm) with acetonitrile and water (0.1 % formic acid) at a flow rate of 0.4 mL/min. RESULTS: The various ginsenosides showed good linearity in the range of 1-2000 ng/mL. The extraction recoveries and matrix effects of the target analytes were above 82.2%. The intra- and inter-batch accuracy and precision were within the limits of ≤15% for all tested concentrations. Moreover, the collected dried blood spot samples could be stably stored at room temperature for 14 days and 4 °C for 1 month without being affected. And it is delightful that the DBS-based analysis is compatible or even superior to the conventional protein precipitation in terms of sensitivity, linearity, and stability. In particular, the target analytes are stable in the DBS sampling under normal storing condition and the sensitivity for some trace metabolites of ginsenosides, such as 20(S)-Rg3, 20(R)-Rg3, F1, Rk1, Rg5, etc. increases 3-4 folds as evaluated by LLOQ. CONCLUSIONS: The established method was successfully applied to pharmacokinetic studies of ginseng extract in mice, this suggests a more feasible strategy for pharmacokinetic study of traditional and natural medicines both in animal tests and clinical trials.

Six unprecedented 2-(2-phenethyl)chromone dimers from agarwood of Aquilaria filaria.

Six new dimeric 2-(2-phenylethyl)chromones (1-6) were successfully isolated from the ethanol extract of agarwood of Aquilaria filaria from Philippines under HPLC-MS guidance. Compounds 1-6 are all dimers formed by linking 5,6,7,8-tetrahydro-2-(2-phenylethyl)chromone and flindersia 2-(2-phenylethyl)chromone via a single ether bond, and the linkage site (C5-O-C8'') of compound 2 is extremely rare. A variety of spectroscopic methods were used to ascertain their structures, including extensive 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopic analysis, HRESIMS, and comparison with literature. The in vitro tyrosinase inhibitory and anti-inflammatory activities of each isolate were assessed. Among these compounds, compound 2 had a tyrosinase inhibition effect with an IC50 value of 27.71 ± 2.60 µM, and compound 4 exhibited moderate inhibition of nitric oxide production in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated RAW264.7 cells with an IC50 value of 35.40 ± 1.04 µM.

Health-promoting compounds in Amomum villosum Lour and Amomum tsao-ko: Fruit essential oil exhibiting great potential for human health.

The Zingiberaceae family serves as a diverse repository of bioactive phytochemicals, comprising approximately 52 genera and 1300 species of aromatic perennial herbs distinguished by their distinct creeping horizontal or tuberous rhizomes. Amomum villosum Lour. and Amomum tsao-ko Crevost & Lemaire., are the important plants of family Zingiberaceae that have been widely used in traditional medicine for the treatment of many ailments. The Amomum species are employed for their aromatic qualities and are valued as spices and flavorings. In the essential oils (EOs) of Amomum species, notable constituents include, camphor, methyl chavicol, bornyl acetate, trans-p-(1-butenyl) anisole, α-pinene, and ß-pinene. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this review is to present an overview of pharmacological studies pertaining to the extracts and secondary metabolites isolated from both species. The foremost objective of review is not only to increase the popularity of Amomum as a healthy food choice but also to enhance its status as a staple ingredient for the foreseeable future. RESULT: We endeavored to gather the latest information on antioxidant, antidiabetic, anticancer, antiobesity, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties of plants as well as their role in neuroprotective diseases. Research conducted through in-vitro studies, animal model, and compounds analysis have revealed that both plants exhibit a diverse array health promoting properties. CONCLUSION: the comprehensive review paper provides valuable insights into the diverse range of bioactive phytochemicals found in A. villosum and A. tsao-ko, showcasing their potential in preventing diseases and promoting overall human well-being. The compilation of information on their various health-enhancing properties contributes to the broader understanding of these plants and their potential applications in traditional medicine and beyond.

Efficacy of Acupuncture Combined with Traditional Chinese Medicine Fumigation Therapy in Sequelae of Pelvic Inflammatory Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Acupuncture combined with traditional Chinese medicine fumigation is increasingly being used in treating sequelae of pelvic inflammatory disease (SPID). However, there is a lack of meta-analysis on the effectiveness of acupuncture combined with traditional Chinese medicine fumigation in treating SPID. The aim of this study was to assess the feasibility of combining acupuncture with traditional Chinese medicine fumigation in the treatment of SPID. METHODS: We searched eight databases for studies on acupuncture combined with traditional Chinese medicine fumigation for the treatment of SPID from the date of establishment to October 29, 2022. We assessed the quality of included studies by using the Cochrane bias risk tool. Pooled results were expressed as risk ratios (RRs), with a 95% confidence interval (CI). In addition, we identified sources of heterogeneity by sensitivity analysis, assessed publication bias by Egger's test, and assessed the quality of the evidence by Grades of Recommendation, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE). All statistical analyses were performed by Review Manager 5.3 and Stata 14. RESULTS: Finally, seven studies with a total of 663 participants were included. We found a significant difference in the total effective rate in the acupuncture combined with the fumigation group compared with the acupuncture group in the treatment of SPID (RR = 1.17, 95% CI [1.09, 1.25], p = 0.0001 < 0.05; I2 = 0%; 6 trials), and a significant difference in the total effective rate in the acupuncture combined with fumigation group compared with the fumigation group in the treatment of SPID (RR = 1.42, 95% CI [1.21, 1.66], p = 0.0001 < 0.05; 5 trials). CONCLUSION: The clinical efficacy of acupuncture combined with herbal fumigation in the treatment of SPID is relatively good. Larger scale studies are needed in the future.Akupunktur in Kombination mit Fumigation, einem Verfahren der Traditionellen Chinesischen Medizin, wird zunehmend in der Behandlung von Folgeerscheinungen von Beckenentzündungen (SPID; sequelae of pelvic inflammatory disease) eingesetzt. Es mangelt jedoch an Metaanalysen zur Wirksamkeit der Akupunktur in Kombination mit Fumigation gemäß der Traditionellen Chinesischen Medizin in der Behandlung von SPID. Das Ziel dieser Studie ist die Beurteilung der Machbarkeit der Kombination aus Akupunktur und Fumigation gemäß der Traditionellen Chinesischen Medizin in der Behandlung von SPID.Wir durchsuchten acht Datenbanken nach Studien zur Akupunktur in Kombination mit Fumigation gemäß der Traditionellen Chinesischen Medizin in der Behandlung von Folgeerscheinungen von SPID von der Einrichtung bis zum 29. Oktober 2022. Wir beurteilten die Qualität der eingeschlossenen Studien mit dem Cochrane-Tool zur Bewertung des Bias-Risikos. Die gepoolten Ergebnisse wurden als Risikoquotient (RR; risk ratio) mit 95%-Konfidenzintervall (KI) ausgedrückt. Zusätzlich identifizierten wir Quellen für Heterogenität mittels Sensitivitätsanalyse, beurteilten den Publikations-Bias mittels Egger-Test und bewerteten die Qualität der Evidenz nach Grad der Empfehlungsstärke, Beurteilung, Entwicklung und Evaluierung (GRADE). Alle statistischen Analysen erfolgten mit Review Manager 5.3 und Stata 14.Im Endeffekt wurden 7 Studien mit insgesamt 663 Teilnehmern eingeschlossen. Wir fanden einen signifikanten Unterschied in der Gesamt-Effektivitätsrate bei der Gruppe, die zur Behandlung von SPID Akupunktur in Kombination mit Fumigation erhielt, im Vergleich zur reinen Akupunkturgruppe (RR = 1,17; 95%-KI [1,09; 1,25]; p = 0,0001 < 0,05; I2-Wert = 0%; 6 Studien), und einen signifikanten Unterschied in der Gesamt-Effektivitätsrate bei der Gruppe, die zur Behandlung von SPID Akupunktur in Kombination mit Fumigation erhielt, im Vergleich zur reinen Fumigationsgruppe (RR = 1,42; 95%-KI [1,21; 1,66]; p = 0,0001 < 0,05; 5 Studien).Die klinische Wirksamkeit der Akupunktur in Kombination mit Kräuter-Fumigation zur Behandlung von SPID ist relativ gut. Zukünftig sind größere Studien erforderlich.

Methyl jasmonate regulation of pectin polysaccharides in Cosmos bipinnatus roots: A mechanistic insight into alleviating cadmium toxicity.

Methyl jasmonate (MeJA), a crucial phytohormone, which plays an important role in resistance to Cadmium (Cd) stress. The cell wall (CW) of root system is the main location of Cd and plays a key role in resistance to Cd toxicity. However, the mechanism effect of MeJA on the CW composition and Cd accumulation remain unclear. In this study, the contribution of MeJA in regulating CW structure, pectin composition and Cd accumulation was investigated in Cosmos bipinnatus. Phenotypic results affirm MeJA's significant role in reducing Cd-induced toxicity in C. bipinnatus. Notably, MeJA exerts a dual impact, reducing Cd uptake in roots while increasing Cd accumulation in the CW, particularly bound to pectin. The molecular structure of pectin, mainly uronic acid (UA), correlates positively with Cd content, consistent in HC1 and cellulose, emphasizing UA as pivotal for Cd binding. Furthermore, MeJA modulates pectin methylesterase (PME) activity under Cd stress, influencing pectin's molecular structure and homogalacturonan (HG) content affecting Cd-binding capacity. Chelate-soluble pectin (CSP) within soluble pectins accumulates a substantial Cd proportion, with MeJA regulating both UA content and the minor component 3-deoxy-oct-2-ulosonic acid (Kdo) in CSP. The study delves into the intricate regulation of pectin monosaccharide composition under Cd stress, revealing insights into the CW's physical defense and Cd binding. In summary, this research provides novel insights into MeJA-specific mechanisms alleviating Cd toxicity in C. bipinnatus, shedding light on complex interactions between MeJA, and Cd accumulation in CW pectin polysaccharide.

Recycling potential of cobalt metal from end-of-life new energy passenger vehicles in China.

The growing demand for new energy vehicles (NEVs) has resulted in a corresponding increase in demand for cobalt as a critical material. It is crucial to estimate the cobalt resource recycling potential of China's NEV industry to ensure a balance between the supply and demand for cobalt metal minerals. This article is based on using the historical data of the new energy passenger vehicle (NEPV) sales volume from 2013 to 2022 to estimate the NEPV sales volume from 2023 to 2035. On this basis, the Weibull distribution was used to analyse the different sales scenarios (low sales and high sales) of NEPVs in China, and the recycling potential of cobalt metal in NEPVs was evaluated under three battery life scenarios (8, 10 and 12 years) from 2023 to 2035. Based on the above scenarios, in 2035, the greatest recycling potential of cobalt is predicted to be 166.9 kilotonnes, with economic values of CNY 49.01-94.60 billion. Moreover, the extent to which the recycling potential of cobalt can cover the market demand for NEPVs was analysed. Our analysis concluded that recycling cobalt as a secondary supply has emerged as a necessary solution to supplement the primary supply, which can make a significant contribution to alleviating the pressure of the supply and demand.

Dietary Folate and Cofactors Accelerate Age-dependent p16 Epimutation to Promote Intestinal Tumorigenesis.

The extent to which non-genetic environmental factors, such as diet, contribute to carcinogenesis has been long debated. One potential mechanism for the effects of environmental factors is through epigenetic modifications that affect gene expression without changing the underlying DNA sequence. However, the functional cooperation between dietary factors and cancer-causing epigenetic regulation is largely unknown. Here, we use a mouse model of age-dependent p16 epimutation, in which the p16 gene activity is directly controlled by promoter DNA methylation. We show p16 epimutation is modulated by folate and cofactors in dietary supplementation, which leads to increased colon cancer risk. Importantly, our findings provide functional evidence concerning the safety of folate fortification in the general population. SIGNIFICANCE: Our study demonstrates that dietary folate and cofactors modulate tumor-suppressor gene methylation to increase intestinal tumorigenesis. Our findings highlight the need for monitoring the long-term safety of folate fortification in high-risk individuals.

Dual role of Nrf2/HO-1 pathway in Z-ligustilide-induced ferroptosis against AML cells.

BACKGROUND: The scarcity of drugs targeting AML cells poses a significant challenge in AML management. Z-Ligustilide (Z-LIG), a phthalide compound, shows promising pharmacological potential as a candidate for AML therapy. However, its precise selective mechanism remains unclear. PURPOSE: In order to assess the selective inducement effects of Z-LIG on ferroptosis in AML cells and explore the possible involvement of the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway in the regulation of ferroptosis. METHODS: Through in vitro cell proliferation and in vivo tumor growth tests, the evaluation of Z-LIG's anticancer activity was conducted. Ferroptosis was determined by the measurement of ROS and lipid peroxide levels using flow cytometry, as well as the observation of mitochondrial morphology. To analyze the iron-related factors, western blot analysis was employed. The up-regulation of the Nrf2/HO-1 axis was confirmed through various experimental techniques, including CRISPR/Cas9 gene knockout, fluorescent probe staining, and flow cytometry. The efficacy of Z-LIG in inducing ferroptosis was further validated in a xenograft nude mouse model. RESULTS: Our study revealed that Z-LIG specifically triggered lipid peroxidation-driven cell death in AML cells. Z-LIG downregulated the total protein and nuclear entrance levels of IRP2, resulting in upregulation of FTH1 and downregulation of TFR1. Z-LIG significantly increased the susceptibility to ferroptosis by upregulating ACSL4 levels and simultaneously suppressing the activity of GPX4. Notably, the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway displayed a twofold impact in the ferroptosis induced by Z-LIG. Mild activation suppressed ferroptosis, while excessive activation promoted it, mainly driven by ROS-induced labile iron pool (LIP) accumulation in AML cells, which was not observed in normal human cells. Additionally, Nrf2 knockout and HO-1 knockdown reversed iron imbalance and mitochondrial damage induced by Z-LIG in HL-60 cells. Z-LIG effectively inhibited the growth of AML xenografts in mice, and Nrf2 knockout partially weakened its antitumor effect by inhibiting ferroptosis. CONCLUSION: Our study presents biological proof indicating that the selective initiation of ferroptosis in leukemia cells is credited to the excessive activation of the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway triggered by Z-LIG.

Hydroxyl-rich ferrofluid for efficient liquid phase microextraction of cinnamic acid derivatives in traditional Chinese medicine.

In this study, a hydroxyl-rich ferrofluid was prepared by dispersing silica-coated magnetic nanoparticles into a methyltrioctylammonium chloride-glycerol deep eutectic solvent and then employed in the preconcentration of trace-level of cinnamic acid derivatives (caffeic acid, p-hydroxycinnamic acid, ferulic acid, and cinnamic acid) in traditional Chinese medicine prior to high-performance liquid chromatography analysis. The structures of the synthesized materials were characterized by X-ray diffraction and infrared spectroscopy. The experimental parameters affecting the extraction performance, such as deep eutectic solvent composition, dosage of ferrofluid, pH of aqueous sample solution, salt concentration, extraction time, type, and volume of desorption solvent, were studied and optimized. Under the optimum conditions, the enrichment factors of four cinnamic acid derivatives were in the range of 107-114. Low detection limits (0.2-0.9 ng/mL), good precisions (relative standard deviations 1.2%-9.5%), and satisfactory recoveries (96.0%-104.7%) were achieved. Subsequently, the possible microextraction mechanism of the proposed method was explored and elucidated. It showed that the prepared ferrofluid is easily dispersed in the aqueous sample and achieved recovery after the extraction. The developed approach is a simple, convenient, and efficient method for preconcentration and determination of cinnamic acid derivatives in complex matrices.

Human milk oligosaccharides and the association with microbiota in colostrum: a pilot study.

HMOs (Human milk oligosaccharide) has an impact on maternal and infant health. Colostrum samples of 70 breastfeeding women in China were collected and recorded clinical characteristics. The major oligosaccharides and microbiota were quantitated in colostrum. The concentration of fucosylated HMOs in primipara was higher than that of multipara (p = 0.030). The concentration of N-acetylated HMOs in vaginal delivery milk was less than that of cesarean (p = 0.038). Non-fucosylated HMOs of breastfeeding women were less than that of breast pump (p = 0.038). Meanwhile, the concentration of LNT was positively correlated with Lactobacillus (r = 0.250, p = 0.037). DS-LNT was negatively correlated with Staphylococcus (r = - 0.240, p = 0.045). There was a positive correlation of Streptococcus with LNFP II (r = 0.314, p = 0.011) and 3-SL (r = 0.322, p = 0.009). In addition, there was a negative correlation between 2'-FL and 3-FL (r = - 0.465, p = 0.001). There was a positive correlation between LNT and LNnT (r = 0.778, p = 0.001). Therefore, the concentration of HMOs is related to number of deliveries, delivery mode, lactation mode and perinatal antibiotic. The concentration of HMOs is related to Lactobacillus, Streptococcus and Streptococcus in colostrum. In addition, there are connections between different oligosaccharides in content. The study protocol was also registered in the ClinicalTrails.gov (ChiCTR2200064454) (Oct. 2022).

Unlocking hormesis and toxic effects induced by cadmium in Polygonatum cyrtonema Hua based on morphology, physiology and metabolomics.

Traditional Chinese medicine materials (TCMMs) are widely planted and used, while cadmium (Cd) is a widespread pollutant that poses a potential risk to plant growth and human health. However, studies on the influences of Cd on TCMMs have been limited. Our study aims to reveal the antioxidation-related detoxification mechanism of Polygonatum cyrtonema Hua under Cd stress based on physiology and metabolomics. The results showed that Cd0.5 (total Cd: 0.91 mg/kg; effective Cd: 0.45 mg/kg) induced hormesis on the biomass of roots, tubers and aboveground parts with increases of 22.88%, 27.12% and 17.02%, respectively, and significantly increased the flavonoids content by 57.45%. Additionally, the metabolism of caffeine, glutamine, arginine and purine was upregulated to induce hormesis in Cd0.5, which enhanced the synthesis of resistant substances such as spermidine, choline, IAA and saponins. Under Cd2 stress, choline and IAA decreased, and fatty acid metabolites (such as peanut acid and linoleic acid) and 8-hydroxyguanosine increased in response to oxidative damage, resulting in a significant biomass decrease. Our findings further reveal the metabolic process of detoxification by antioxidants and excessive Cd damage in TCMMs, deepen the understanding of detoxification mechanisms related to antioxidation, and enrich the relevant theories of hormesis induced by Cd.

Diverse ansamycin derivatives from the marine-derived Streptomyces sp. ZYX-F-97 and their antibacterial activities.

Four new ansamycin derivatives, named 1,19-epithio-geldanamycin A (1), 17-demethoxylherbimycin H (2), herbimycin M (3), and seco-geldanamycin B (4), together with eight known ansamycin analogues (5-12) were isolated from the solid fermentation of marine-derived actinomycete Streptomyces sp. ZYX-F-97. The structures of new compounds were elucidated by extensive spectroscopic analysis as well as nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and electronic circular dichroism (ECD) calculations. All the compounds were assayed for their antibacterial activity. Among them, compounds 4, 8, and 12 exhibited remarkable inhibition against Listeria monocytogenes with minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) values ranging from 8 µg·mL-1 to 64 µg·mL-1, and displayed moderate inhibition against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) with MIC value of 64 µg·mL-1. Compounds 4, 8, 9, and 12 showed moderate inhibition activities against both Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus subtilis with MIC values ranging from 32 µg·mL-1 to 128 µg·mL-1.

Sesquiterpenoids and bibenzyl derivative from Dendrobium hercoglossum.

Three new sesquiterpenoids, dendrohercoglin A - C (1-3), and one new bibenzyl derivative, dendronbiline D (4), together with nine known sesquiterpenoids (5-13) were isolated from Dendrobium hercoglossum. The structures of the new compounds were elucidated by extensive spectroscopic analysis as well as NMR and ECD calculations. All the compounds were evaluated for their neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory activities. Compounds 2 and 3 increased the H2O2-damaged SH-SY5Y cell viabilities from 43.3% to 58.6% and 68.4%, respectively. Compound 4 exhibited pronounced anti-inflammatory activity with IC50 value of 9.5 ± 0.45 µM which was superior to the reference compound quercetin (IC50: 15.7 ± 0.89 µM).

No Incidence of Liver Cancer Was Observed in A Retrospective Study of Patients with Aristolochic Acid Nephropathy.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the risk of aristolochic acid (AA)-associated cancer in patients with AA nephropathy (AAN). METHODS: A retrospective study was conducted on patients diagnosed with AAN at Peking University First Hospital from January 1997 to December 2014. Long-term surveillance and follow-up data were analyzed to investigate the influence of different factors on the prevalence of cancer. The primary endpoint was the incidence of liver cancer, and the secondary endpoint was the incidence of urinary cancer during 1 year after taking AA-containing medication to 2014. RESULTS: A total of 337 patients diagnosed with AAN were included in this study. From the initiation of taking AA to the termination of follow-up, 39 patients were diagnosed with cancer. No cases of liver cancer were observed throughout the entire follow-up period, with urinary cancer being the predominant type (34/39, 87.17%). Logistic regression analysis showed that age, follow-up period, and diabetes were potential risk factors, however, the dosage of the drug was not significantly associated with urinary cancer. CONCLUSIONS: No cases of liver cancer were observed at the end of follow-up. However, a high prevalence of urinary cancer was observed in AAN patients. Establishing a direct causality between AA and HCC is challenging.