Rapid Screening of Chemical Components in Salvia miltiorrhiza with the Potential to Inhibit Skin Inflammation.

Hyaluronidase possesses the capacity to degrade high-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid into smaller fragments, subsequently initiating a cascade of inflammatory responses and activating dendritic cells. In cases of bacterial infections, substantial quantities of HAase are generated, potentially leading to severe conditions such as cellulitis. Inhibiting hyaluronidase activity may offer anti-inflammatory benefits. Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge, a traditional Chinese medicine, has anti-inflammatory properties. However, its effects on skin inflammation are not well understood. This study screened and evaluated the active components of S. miltiorrhiza that inhibit skin inflammation, using ligand fishing, enzyme activity assays, drug combination analysis, and molecular docking. By combining magnetic nanomaterials with hyaluronidase functional groups, we immobilized hyaluronidase on magnetic nanomaterials for the first time in the literature. We then utilized an immobilized enzyme to specifically adsorb the ligand; two ligands were identified as salvianolic acid B and rosmarinic acid by HPLC analysis after desorption of the dangling ligands, to complete the rapid screening of potential anti-inflammatory active ingredients in S. miltiorrhiza roots. The median-effect equation and combination index results indicated that their synergistic inhibition of hyaluronidase at a fixed 3:2 ratio was enhanced with increasing concentrations. Kinetic studies revealed that they acted as mixed-type inhibitors of hyaluronidase. Salvianolic acid B had Ki and Kis values of 0.22 and 0.96 µM, respectively, while rosmarinic acid had values of 0.54 and 4.60 µM. Molecular docking revealed that salvianolic acid B had a higher affinity for hyaluronidase than rosmarinic acid. In addition, we observed that a 3:2 combination of SAB and RA significantly decreased the secretion of TNF-α, IL-1, and IL-6 inflammatory cytokines in UVB-irradiated HaCaT cells. These findings identify salvianolic acid B and rosmarinic acid as key components with the potential to inhibit skin inflammation, as found in S. miltiorrhiza. This research is significant for developing skin inflammation treatments. It demonstrates the effectiveness and broad applicability of the magnetic nanoparticle-based ligand fishing approach for screening enzyme inhibitors derived from herbal extracts.

[Astragali Radix-Salviae Miltiorrhizae Radix et Rhizoma alleviates acute lung injury in rats by regulating autophagy via PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway].

This study aims to reveal the effects of the herb pair Astragali Radix-Salviae Miltiorrhizae Radix et Rhizoma(AR-SMRR) on phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/protein kinase B/mammalian target of rapamycin(PI3K/Akt/mTOR) pathway and autophagy in the lung tissue of the rat model of acute lung injury(ALI). Fifty adult male SD rats were randomized into sham, model, autophagy inhibition(intraperitoneal injection of chloroquine at 10 mg·kg~(-1)), autophagy induction(intraperitoneal injection of rapamycin at 15 mg·kg~(-1)), and AR-SMRR(5 g·kg~(-1), gavage) groups. The rats in the sham group received intratracheal instillation of normal saline, and those in other groups received intratracheal instillation of lipopolysaccharide(LPS, 5 mg·kg~(-1)) for the modeling of ALI. Seven days before the operation, the rats in the sham and model groups were administrated with normal saline, and those in other groups with corresponding drugs. Specimens were collected 24 h after modeling. The pathological changes of the lung tissue were observed under a light microscope. The lung wet/dry weight ratio and the lactate dehydrogenase(LDH) activity and total protein concentration in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid(BALF) were measured. Western blot was employed to measure the protein levels of microtubule-associated protein 1-light chain 3(LC3), beclin-1, p62, PI3K, Akt, and mTOR. Compared with the sham group, the model group showed increased histopathological score of the lung tissue, lung wet/dry weight ratio, and LDH activity and protein concentration in BALF. Autophagy inhibition further increased these indicators compared with the model group, while autophagy induction and AR-SMRR lowered the levels. In addition, AR-SMRR up-regulated the protein levels of LC3-Ⅱ and beclin-1, down-regulated the expression of p62, and inhibited the expression of p-PI3K, p-Akt, and p-mTOR in the lung tissue of ALI rats. The findings suggest that AR-SMRR can alleviate the lung injury and edema in the rat model of ALI induced by LPS by enhancing autophagy via down-regulating PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway.

[Experimental study on treatment of retinitis pigmentosa by inducing Müller cell reprogramming with Lycii Fructus and Salviae Miltiorrhizae Radix et Rhizoma].

This study aims to explore the effect of Lycii Fructus and Salviae Miltiorrhizae Radix et Rhizoma(LFSMR), a drug pair possesses the function of nourishing Yin, promoting blood circulation, and brightening the eyes, in treating retinitis pigmentosa(RP)by inhibiting the gliosis of Müller cells(MCs) and inducing their reprogramming and differentiation into various types of retinal nerve cells. Twelve C57 mice were used as the normal control group, and 48 transgenic RP(rd10) mice were randomly divided into the model group, positive control group, and low and high dose LFSMR groups, with 12 mice in each group. HE staining was used to detect pathological changes in the retina, and an electroretinogram was used to detect retinal function. Retinal optical coherence tomography was used to detect retinal thickness and perform fundus photography, and laser speckle perfusion imaging was used to detect local retinal blood flow. Digital PCR was used to detect gene expression related to retinal nerve cells, and immunofluorescence was used to detect protein expression related to retinal nerve cells. LFSMR could significantly improve the pathological changes, increase the amplitude of a and b waves, increase the retinal thickness, restore retinal damage, and increase retinal blood flow in mice with RP lesions. LFSMR could also significantly inhibit the m RNA expression of the glial fibrillary acidic protein( GFAP) during the pathogenesis of RP and upregulate m RNA expression of sex determining region Y box protein 2(SOX2), paired box protein 6(Pax6),rhodopsin, protein kinase C-α(PKCα), syntaxin, and thymic cell antigen 1. 1(Thy1. 1). LFSMR could significantly inhibit GFAP protein expression and enhance protein expression of SOX2, Pax6, rhodopsin, PKCα, syntaxin, and Thy1. 1. It could also reverse the pathological changes in the retina of rd10 mice, improve retinal function and fundus performance, increase retinal thickness, enhance local retinal blood flow, and exert therapeutic effects on RP. The mechanism of action of LFSMR may be related to inhibiting the gliosis of MCs and promoting their reprogramming and differentiation into various types of retinal nerve cells.

Structural analysis of Salvia miltiorrhiza polysaccharide and its regulatory functions on T cells subsets in tumor-bearing mice combined with thymopentin.

Salvia miltiorrhiza ethanol-extracted polysaccharide (SMEP) and thymopentin (TP5) have been proved with strong immunomodulatory activity, and T cells subsets play pivotal roles in the inhibition of solid tumors growth. In the present study, the structure of SMEP was further identified via methylation and nuclear magnetic resonance spectra, and the immunomodulatory activity in combination with TP5 was investigated via evaluating T cell subsets spatial distributions in tumor-bearing mice, finally the cellular status of solid tumor cells was analyzed. The results revealed that SMEP was a neutral heteropolysaccharide using (1 â†’ 4)-α-D-Glcp and (2 â†’ 1)-ß-D-Fruf as the main chain, along with branched chains of (1 â†’ 6)-α-D-Galp. The SMEP+TP5 treatments could effectively promote the differentiation and improve the specific recognition capacity of CD4+ T cells in tumor-bearing mice, thereby activate tumor-infiltrating CD8+ T cells to exert cytotoxic effects, finally promoting the tumor cells apoptosis via blocking cell cycle at G0/G1 phase, which might be relevant with suppression of Wnt/ß-catenin signaling pathway. These findings highlighted the potential of SMEP as an immunoadjuvant for patients bearing immune-deficiency related diseases, and provided data support for the functional researches of T cell subsets in tumor immunity.

The Structural Characterization of a Polysaccharide from the Dried Root of Salvia miltiorrhiza and Its Use as a Vaccine Adjuvant to Induce Humoral and Cellular Immune Responses.

In order to supplement the research gap concerning Salvia miltiorrhiza polysaccharide extracted from Danshen in NMR analysis, and to clarify its immune enhancement effect as an adjuvant, we isolated and purified SMPD-2, which is composed of nine monosaccharides such as Ara, Gal, and Glc from Danshen. Its weight average molecular weight was 37.30 ± 0.096 KDa. The main chain was mainly composed of →4)-α-D-Galp-(1→, →3,6)-ß-D-Glcp-(1→ and a small amount of α-L-Araf-(1→. After the subcutaneous injection of SMPD-2 as an adjuvant to OVA in mice, we found that it enhanced the immune response by activating DCs from lymph nodes, increasing OVA-specific antibody secretion, stimulating spleen lymphocyte activation, and showing good biosafety. In conclusion, SMPD-2 could be a promising candidate for an adjuvant.

Salvia miltiorrhiza stem-leaf of total phenolic acid conversion products alleviate myocardial ischemia by regulating metabolic profiles, intestinal microbiota and metabolites.

Myocardial ischemia (MI) is a significant contributor to ischemic heart diseases like angina pectoris and myocardial infarction. Reactive oxygen species produced during MI can trigger lipid peroxidation, damaging cell structure and function. Salvia miltiorrhiza (SM) has been widely used clinically in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases. However, in the process of rooting, the aboveground parts of this plant are usually discarded by tons. To make better use of these plant resources, the phenolic acids extracted and purified from the aerial part of SM were studied and chemically transformed, and the potential protective effect and possible mechanism of salvianolic acids containing a higher content of salvianolic acid A on MI were obtained. The transformed products of SM stem-leaves total phenolic acids with 8.16 % salvianolic acid A showed a better protective effect on the isoproterenol (ISO)-induced acute MI injury rat model. It can improve ST segment changes and has good antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anticoagulant effects. In addition, the dysbiosis of gut microbiota and the related metabolic levels of short chain fatty acids (SCFAs), phenylalanine and glycerophospholipids were improved. This was achieved by reducing the abundance of Bacteroides, Faecalibaculum, and L-phenylalanine levels. In addition, the abundance of probiotics in Butyricoccus, Roseburia, and norank_f_Eubacterium_coprostanoligenes_group, as well as the contents of propionic acid and isobutyric acid, LPCs and PCs were increased. In conclusion, total phenolic acids of SM stem-leaves showed protective effects against ISO-induced rats, especially the strongest effect after conversion, which is a new option for the prevention and treatment of MI.

Salvia miltiorrhiza bunge extracts: a promising source for anti-atopic dermatitis activity.

BACKGROUND: Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory condition characterized by the accumulation of reactive oxygen species and the expression of inflammatory factors. Regarding its anti-atopic activity, numerous traditional medicinal materials and secondary metabolic products play pivotal roles in modulating the associated mechanisms. METHODS: This study aimed to utilize Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge (SMB) as an anti-AD source. In-vitro activity assessments and qualitative and quantitative analyses using UPLC-TQ-MS/MS and HPLC-DAD were conducted in two cultivars ('Dasan' and 'Kosan'). Statistical analysis indicated that the profiles of their secondary metabolites contribute significantly to their pharmacological properties. Consequently, bio-guided fractionation was undertaken to figure out the distinct roles of the secondary metabolites present in SMB. RESULTS: Comparative study of two cultivars indicated that 'Dasan', having higher salvianolic acid A and B, exhibited stronger antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. Meanwhile, 'Kosan', containing higher tanshinones, showed higher alleviating activities on anti-AD related genes in mRNA levels. Additionally, performed bio-guided fractionation re-confirmed that the hydrophilic compounds of SMB can prevent AD by inhibiting accumulation of ROS and suppressing inflammatory factors and the lipophilic components can directly inhibit AD. CONCLUSIONS: SMB was revealed as a good source for anti-AD activity. Several bioactive compounds were identified from the UPLC-TQ-MS/MS and different compounds content was linked to biological activities. Characterization of these compounds may be helpful to understand differential role of secondary metabolites from SMB on alleviation of AD.

Research of the dynamic regulatory mechanism of Compound Danshen Dripping Pills on myocardial infarction based on metabolic trajectory analysis.

BACKGROUND: Myocardial infarction (MI) is a serious cardiovascular disease, which presents different pathophysiological changes with the prolongation of the disease. Compound danshen dripping pills (CDDP) has obvious advantages in MI treatment and widely used in the clinic. However, the current studies were mostly focused on the endpoint of CDDP intervention, lacking the dynamic attention to the disease process. It is of great value to establish a dynamic research strategy focused on the changes in pharmacodynamic substances for guiding clinical medication more precisely. PURPOSE: It is aimed to explore the dynamic regulating pattern of CDDP on MI based on metabolic trajectory analysis, and then clarify the variation characteristic biomarkers and pharmacodynamic substances in the intervention process. METHODS: The MI model was successfully prepared by coronary artery left anterior descending branch ligation, and then CDDP intervention was given for 28 days. Endogenous metabolites and the components of CDDP in serum were measured by LC/MS technique simultaneously to identify dynamic the metabolic trajectory and screen the characteristic pharmacodynamic substances at different points. Finally, network pharmacology and molecular docking techniques were used to simulate the core pharmacodynamic substances and core target binding, then validated at the genetic and protein level by Q-PCR and western blotting technology. RESULTS: CDDP performed typical dynamic regulation features on metabolite distribution, biological processes, and pharmacodynamic substances. During 1-7 days, it mainly regulated lipid metabolism and inflammation, the Phosphatidylcholine (PC(18:1(9Z/18:1(9Z)) and Sphingomyelin (SM(d18:1/23:1(9Z)), SM(d18:1/24:1(15Z)), SM(d18:0/16:1(9Z))) were the main characteristic biomarkers. Lipid metabolism was the mainly regulation pathway during 14-21 days, and the characteristic biomarkers were the Lysophosphatidylethanolamine (LysoPE(0:0/20:0), PE-NMe2(22:1(13Z)/15:0)) and Sphingomyelin (SM(d18:1/23:1(9Z))). At 28 days, in addition to inflammatory response and lipid metabolism, fatty acid metabolism also played the most important role. Correspondingly, Lysophosphatidylcholine (LysoPC(20:0/0:0)), Lysophosphatidylserine (LPS(18:0/0:0)) and Fatty acids (Linoelaidic acid) were the characteristic biomarkers. Based on the results of metabolite distribution and biological process, the characteristic pharmacodynamic substances during the intervention were further identified. The results showed that various kinds of Saponins and Tanshinones as the important active ingredients performed a long-range regulating effect on MI. And the other components, such as Tanshinol and Salvianolic acid B affected Phosphatidylcholine and Sphingomyelin through Relaxin Signaling pathway during the early intervention. Protocatechualdehyde and Rosmarinic acid affected Lysophosphatidylethanolamine and Sphingomyelin through EGFR Tyrosine kinase inhibitor resistance during the late intervention. Tanshinone IIB and Isocryptotanshinone via PPAR signaling pathway affected Lysophosphatidylcholine, Lysophosphatidylserine, and Fatty acids. CONCLUSION: The dynamic regulating pattern was taken as the entry point and constructs the dynamic network based on metabolic trajectory analysis, establishes the dynamic correlation between the drug-derived components and the endogenous metabolites, and elucidates the characteristic biomarkers affecting the changes of the pharmacodynamic indexes, systematically and deeply elucidate the pharmacodynamic substance and mechanism of CDDP on MI. It also enriched the understanding of CDDP and provided a methodological reference for the dynamic analysis of complex systems of TCM.

Exploring the potential mechanisms of Danshen against COVID-19 via network pharmacology analysis and molecular docking.

Danshen, a prominent herb in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), is known for its potential to enhance physiological functions such as blood circulation, immune response, and resolve blood stasis. Despite the effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccination efforts, some individuals still face severe complications post-infection, including pulmonary fibrosis, myocarditis arrhythmias and stroke. This study employs a network pharmacology and molecular docking approach to investigate the potential mechanisms underlying the therapeutic effects of candidate components and targets from Danshen in the treatment of complications in COVID-19. Candidate components and targets from Danshen were extracted from the TCMSP Database, while COVID-19-related targets were obtained from Genecards. Venn diagram analysis identified common targets. A Protein-Protein interaction (PPI) network and gene enrichment analysis elucidated potential therapeutic mechanisms. Molecular docking evaluated interactions between core targets and candidate components, followed by molecular dynamics simulations to assess stability. We identified 59 potential candidate components and 123 targets in Danshen for COVID-19 treatment. PPI analysis revealed 12 core targets, and gene enrichment analysis highlighted modulated pathways. Molecular docking showed favorable interactions, with molecular dynamics simulations indicating high stability of key complexes. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves validated the docking protocol. Our study unveils candidate compounds, core targets, and molecular mechanisms of Danshen in COVID-19 treatment. These findings provide a scientific foundation for further research and potential development of therapeutic drugs.

The Tanshinones (Tan) Extract From Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge Induces ROS-Dependent Apoptosis in Pancreatic Cancer via AKT Hyperactivation-Mediated FOXO3/SOD2 Signaling.

CONTEXT: Salvia miltiorrhiza (SM) is a commonly used herb in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and has been used in the treatment of pancreatic cancer to relieve the symptom of "blood stasis and toxin accumulation." Tanshinones (Tan), the main lipophilic constituents extracted from the roots and rhizomes of SM, have been reported to possess anticancer functions in several cancers. But the mechanism of how the active components work in pancreatic cancer still need to be clarified. OBJECTIVE: In this study, we aimed to investigate the therapeutic potential of Tan in pancreatic cancer and elucidate the underlying mechanisms. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The viabilities of PANC-1 and Bxpc-3 cells were determined by MTT assay, after treatment with various concentrations of Tan. The apoptotic cells were quantified by annexin V-FITC/PI staining and DAPI staining assays. The expression of relative proteins was used western blotting. Tumor growth was assessed by subcutaneously inoculating cells into C57BL/6 mice. RESULTS: Our experiments discovered that Tan effectively suppressed pancreatic cancer cell proliferation and promoted apoptosis. Mechanistically, we propose that Tan enhances intracellular ROS levels by activating the AKT/FOXO3/SOD2 signaling pathway, ultimately leading to apoptosis in pancreatic cancer cells. In vivo assay showed the antitumor effect of Tan. CONCLUSION: Tan, a natural compound from Salvia miltiorrhiza, was found to effectively suppress pancreatic cancer cell proliferation and promote apoptosis both in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, we propose a positive feedback loop mechanism. These findings provide valuable insights into the molecular pathways driving pancreatic cancer progression.

Screening of peptidyl arginine deiminase 4 inhibitors in traditional herbal medicines.

Peptidyl arginine deiminase 4 (PAD4) is a promising target for the treatment of metabolic diseases associated with autoimmune and central nervous system disease. By now there are limited numbers of PAD4 inhibitors, and no one is ready for clinical use. This study aims to find efficient and specific PAD4 inhibitors from traditional herbal medicines and to investigate their inhibitory mechanisms. The inhibitory effects of forty-eight extracts from sixteen traditional herbal medicines which are widely used in traditional herbal medicines were investigated. Salvia miltiorrhiza was found to have the most potent PAD4 inhibitory activity. After that, a practical bioactivity-guided fractionation coupling with a chemical profiling strategy was used to identify the fractions from Salvia miltiorrhiza with strong PAD4 inhibition activity, and the major constituents in these bioactive fractions were characterized by LC-MS/MS. Seven compounds were found to have inhibition on PAD4 with IC50 values ranging from 33.52 µM to 667 µM, in which salvianolic acid A showed the most potent inhibitory activity, with an IC50 value of 33.52 µM. Inhibition kinetic analyses indicated that salvianolic acid A effectively inhibited PAD4 in a mixed inhibitory manner, and computer simulation analyses demonstrated that salvianolic acid A binds to PAD4 mainly using hydrogen bonding. Overall, our results suggest that salvianolic acid A from Salvia miltiorrhiza is a potent inhibitor of PAD4, and that salvianolic acid A can be used as a promising lead compound for the development of more potent PAD4 inhibitors.

Salvianolic acid B protects against UVB-induced skin aging via activation of NRF2.

BACKGROUND: Prolonged exposure to sun radiation may result in harmful skin photoaging. Therefore, discovering novel anti-photoaging treatment modalities is critical. An active component isolated from Salvia miltiorrhiza (SM), Salvianolic acid B (Sal-B), is a robust antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent. This investigation aimed to discover the therapeutic impact and pathways of salvianolic acid B for UVB-induced skin photoaging, an area that remains unexplored. METHODS: We conducted in vitro experiments on human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs) exposed to UVB radiation, assessing cellular senescence, superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, cell viability, proliferation, migration, levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and mitochondrial health. The potential mechanism of Sal-B was analyzed using RNA sequencing, with further validation through Western blotting, PCR, and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2) silencing methods. In vivo, a model of skin photoaging induced by UVB in nude mice was employed. The collagen fiber levels were assessed utilizing hematoxylin and eosin (H&E), Masson, and Sirus red staining. Additionally, NRF2 and related gene and protein expression levels were identified utilizing PCR and Western blotting. RESULTS: Sal-B was found to significantly counteract photoaging in UVB-exposed skin fibroblasts, reducing aging-related decline in fibroblast proliferation and an increase in apoptosis. It was observed that Sal-B aids in protecting mitochondria from excessive ROS production by promoting NRF2 nuclear translocation. NRF2 knockdown experiments established its necessity for Sal-B's anti-photoaging effects. The in vivo studies also verified Sal-B's anti-photoaging efficacy, surpassing that of tretinoin (Retino-A). These outcomes offer novel insights into the contribution of Sal-B in developing clinical treatment modalities for UVB-induced photodamage in skin fibroblasts. CONCLUSION: In this investigation, we identified the Sal-B protective impact on the senescence of dermal fibroblasts and skin photoaging induced by radiation of UVB. The outcomes suggest Sal-B as a potential modulator of the NRF2 signaling pathway.

[Correlations between tanshinones and soil factors of Salviae Miltiorrhizae Radix et Rhizoma from different producing areas].

Soil nutrients and inorganic elements affect not only the growth and development of medicinal plants but also the formation and accumulation of active ingredients in traditional Chinese medicines. The content of tanshinones and 28 inorganic elements in Salviae Miltiorrhizae Radix et Rhizoma samples from 18 producing areas in 6 provinces was determined, and 35 physical and chemical properties of the corresponding soil samples were determined. The enrichment characteristics of inorganic elements in Salviae Miltiorrhizae Radix et Rhizoma were analyzed. The correlation analysis and stepwise regression analysis were performed to screen out the main soil factors affecting the content of tanshinones in Salviae Miltiorrhizae Radix et Rhizoma. The results showed that the content of tanshinones in the samples from different areas varied significantly, being the highest in the samples from Shandong, the second in the samples from Henan, and low in the samples from Shanxi and Sichuan. K, Mg, Ca, and Na were rich in Salviae Miltiorrhizae Radix et Rhizoma samples, among which Na and K had the highest enrichment coefficients. The results of correlation and regression analyses showed that soil K, Na, Ti, and total nitrogen were the main soil factors affecting the tanshinones in Salviae Miltiorrhizae Radix et Rhizoma. Specifically, the content of tanshinones was positively correlated with Ti and negatively correlated with Na, K, and total nitrogen in the soil. Therefore, during the planting of Salvia miltiorrhiza, the land should be selected with full consideration to the salinity and saline land should be avoided. Secondly, the application of nitrogen and potassium fertilizers can be appropriately reduced, and water-soluble elemental fertilizers for S. miltiorrhiza should be developed.

[Anti-aging effect and molecular mechanism of Xiyangshen Sanqi Danshen Granules based on metabolomics and bioinformatics].

This study investigated the anti-aging mechanism of Xiyangshen Sanqi Danshen Granules based on metabonomics, network pharmacology, and molecular docking. The aging mice model was induced by intraperitoneal injection of D-galactose(D-gal). Mice were randomly divided into a control group, model group, melatonin group(MT group), and low, medium, and high dose groups of Xiyangshen Sanqi Danshen Granules(XSD-L, XSD-M, and XSD-H). An open-field experiment was conducted, and the expression of cell cycle arrest proteins(p16) and phosphorylated histone family 2A variant(γH2AX) in the brain tissue was detected by immunofluorescence. The expression of interleukin-1ß(IL-1ß) and interleukin-6(IL-6) in the brain tissue was detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay(ELISA). Metabolomics analysis was performed on the serum of mice in control, model, and XSD-H groups to obtain metabolic processes and metabolites. The effective chemical components and potential targets of Xiyangshen Sanqi Danshen Granules were predicted through network pharmacology, and the network diagram of "drug-effective chemical components-key targets" was constructed. Gene Ontology(GO) analysis and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes(KEGG) analysis were carried out, and a protein-protein interaction(PPI) network was constructed to clarify the anti-aging mechanism of Xiyangshen Sanqi Danshen Granules. The results showed that the Xiyangshen Sanqi Danshen Granules could significantly improve the aging degree of D-gal mice, significantly improve the total motion distance and the mean motion speed of D-gal mice, and reduce the rest time. In addition, Xiyangshen Sanqi Danshen Granules could significantly reduce the protein levels of IL-6 and IL-1ß and the expression of p16 and γH2AX in D-gal mice. Compared with the model group, 66 differential metabolites(DMs) were significantly up-regulated, and 91 DMs were down-regulated in the XSD-H group. Moreover, four key metabolic pathways(tryptophan metabolism, glycerophospholipid metabolism, pyrimidine metabolism, and lysine degradation) and 16 biomarkers(lysine, tryptophan, indoleacetaldehyde, PCs, LysoPCs, 3-hydroxyanthranilic acid, melatonin, etc) were screened out. 58 main active components and 62 key targets of Xiyangshen Sanqi Danshen Granules were screened by network pharmacology. The GO functional enrichment analysis found the positive regulation of gene expression, drug response, etc. KEGG pathway enrichment screening involved diabetic complications-related AGE-RAGE signaling pathway, hypoxia inducible factor-1 signaling pathway, etc. Through the PPI network and molecular docking, six potential core targets of STAT3, MAPK1, MAPK14, EGFR, FOS, and STAT1 were screened.

Mechanism of Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge extract to alleviate Chronic Sleep Deprivation-Induced cognitive dysfunction in rats.

BACKGROUND: Bidirectional communication between the gut microbiota and the brain may play an essential role in the cognitive dysfunction associated with chronic sleep deprivation(CSD). Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge (Danshen, DS), a famous Chinese medicine and functional tea, is extensively used to protect learning and memory capacities, although the mechanism of action remains unknown. PURPOSE: The purpose of this research was to explore the efficacy and the underlying mechanism of DS in cognitive dysfunction caused by CSD. METHODS: DS chemical composition was analyzed by UPLC-QTOF-MS/MS. Forty rats were randomly assigned to five groups (n = 8): control (CON), model (MOD), low- (1.35 g/kg, DSL), high-dose (2.70 g/kg, DSH) DS group, and Melatonin(100 mg/kg, MT) group. A CSD rat model was established over 21 days. DS's effects and the underlying mechanism were explored using the open-field test(OFT), Morris water-maze(MWM), tissue staining(Hematoxylin and Eosin Staining, Nissl staining, Alcian blue-periodic acid SCHIFF staining, and Immunofluorescence), enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, Western blot, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction(qPCR), and 16S rRNA sequencing. RESULTS: We demonstrated that CSD caused gut dysbiosis and cognitive dysfunction. Furthermore, 16S rRNA sequencing demonstrated that Firmicutes and Proteobacteria were more in fecal samples from model group rats, whereas Bacteroidota and Spirochaetota were less. DS therapy, on the contrary hand, greatly restored the gut microbial community, consequently alleviating cognitive impairment in rats. Further research revealed that DS administration reduced systemic inflammation via lowering intestinal inflammation and barrier disruption. Following that, DS therapy reduced Blood Brain Barrier(BBB) and neuronal damage, further decreasing neuroinflammation in the hippocampus(HP). Mechanistic studies revealed that DS therapy lowered lipopolysaccharide (LPS) levels in the HP, serum, and colon, consequently blocking the TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB signaling pathway and its downstream pro-inflammatory products(IL-1ß, IL-6, TNF-α, iNOS, and COX2) in the HP and colon. CONCLUSION: DS treatment dramatically improved spatial learning and memory impairments in rats with CSD by regulating the composition of the intestinal flora, preserving gut and brain barrier function, and reducing inflammation mediated by the LPS-TLR4 signaling pathway. Our findings provide novel insight into the mechanisms by which DS treats cognitive dysfunction caused by CSD.

Tanshinone IIA from Salvia miltiorrhiza alleviates follicular maturation arrest symptoms in zebrafish via binding to the human androgen receptors and modulating Tox3 and Dennd1a.

Follicular maturation arrest is a prevalent endocrine disorder characterized by hormonal imbalance, ovarian dysfunction, and metabolic disturbances leading to Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). Tanshinone IIA (TIIA), a bioactive compound derived from Salvia miltiorrhiza, has shown promising therapeutic potential in various diseases, including cardiovascular diseases and cancer. However, its effects on reproductive health and gynecological disorders, particularly PCOS, remain poorly understood. In this study, we investigated the potential therapeutic effects of TIIA on ovarian function. Using a combination of experimental and computational approaches, we elucidated the molecular mechanisms underlying TIIA's pharmacological impact on ovarian function, follicular development, and androgen receptor signaling. Molecular docking and dynamics simulations revealed that TIIA interacts with the human androgen receptor (HAR), modulating its activity and downstream signaling pathways. Our results demonstrate that TIIA treatment alleviates PCOS-like symptoms in a zebrafish model, including improved follicular development, lowered GSI index, improved antioxidant status (SOD, CAT), decreased LDH levels, and enhanced AChE levels by regulating Tox3 and Dennd1a pathway. Our findings suggest that TIIA may hold promise as a novel therapeutic agent for the management of PCOS or ovulation induction.

Salvia miltiorrhiza inhibited lung cancer through aerobic glycolysis suppression.

Lung cancer causes the most cancer deaths and needs new treatment strategies urgently. Salvia miltiorrhiza is a classical Chinese herb and a strong candidate for tumor treatment. The study found that the aqueous extract of Salvia miltiorrhiza (DSAE), ethanol extract of Salvia miltiorrhiza (DSEE), and its active components danshensu (DSS) and dihydrotanshinone I (DHI), exhibited antineoplastic effects in vivo and in vitro. Meanwhile, DSAE, DSEE, DSS, and DHI reduced glycolysis metabolites (ATP, lactate, and pyruvate contents) production, decreased aerobic glycolysis enzymes, and inhibited Seahorse indexes (OCR and ECAR) in Lewis lung cancer cells (LLC). Data suggests that aerobic glycolysis could be inhibited by Salvia miltiorrhiza and its components. The administration of DSS and DHI further reduced the level of HKII in lung cancer cell lines that had been inhibited with HK-II antagonists (2-deoxyglucose, 2-DG; 3-bromo-pyruvate, 3-BP) or knocked down with siRNA, thereby exerting an anti-lung cancer effect. Although DSS and DHI decreased the level of HKII in HKII-Knock-In lung cancer cell line, their anti-lung cancer efficacy remained limited due to the persistent overexpression of HKII in these cells. Reiterating the main points, we have discovered that the anti-lung cancer effects of Salvia miltiorrhiza may be attributed to its ability to regulate HKII expression levels, thereby inhibiting aerobic glycolysis. This study not only provides a new research paradigm for the treatment of cancer by Salvia miltiorrhiza, but also highlights the important link between glucose metabolism and the effect of Salvia Miltiorrhiza.

Prediction of key quality attributes in Salvia miltiorrhiza standard decoction using a Gaussian process regression model.

INTRODUCTION: Nonstationary, nonlinear mass transfer in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) extraction poses challenges to correlating process characteristics with quality parameters, particularly in defining clear parameter ranges for the process. OBJECTIVES: The aim of the study was to provide a solution for quality consistency analysis in TCM preparation processes. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Salvia miltiorrhiza was taken as an example for 15 batches of standard decoction. Using aqueous extract, alcoholic extract, and the content of salvianolic acid B as herb material key quality attributes, multiple nonlinear regression, Gaussian process regression, and artificial neural network models were employed to predict the key quality attributes including the paste yield, the content of salvianolic acid B, and the transfer rate. The evaluation criteria were root mean square error, mean absolute percentage error, and R2. RESULTS: The Gaussian process regression model had the best prediction effect on the paste yield, the content of salvianolic acid B, and the transfer rate, with R2 being 0.918, 0.934, and 0.919, respectively. Utilizing Gaussian process regression model confidence intervals, along with Shewhart control and intervals optimized through process capability index analysis, the quality control range of the standard decoction was determined as follows: paste yield, 25.14%-33.19%; salvianolic acid B content, 2.62%-4.78%; and transfer rate, 56.88%-64.80%. CONCLUSION: This study combined the preparation process of standard decoction with the Gaussian process regression model, accurately predicted the key quality attributes, and determined the quality parameter range by using process analysis tools, providing a new idea for the quality consistency standard of TCM processes.

Dihydrotanshinone I inhibits gallbladder cancer growth by targeting the Keap1-Nrf2 signaling pathway and Nrf2 phosphorylation.

BACKGROUND: Gallbladder cancer (GBC) poses a significant risk to human health. Its development is influenced by numerous factors, particularly the homeostasis of reactive oxygen species (ROS) within cells. This homeostasis is crucial for tumor cell survival, and abnormal regulation of ROS is associated with the occurrence and progression of many cancers. Dihydrotanshinone I (DHT I), a biologically effective ingredient isolated from Salvia miltiorrhiza, has exhibited cytotoxic properties against various tumor cells by inducing apoptosis. However, the precise molecular mechanisms by which dht I exerts its cytotoxic effects remain unclear. PURPOSE: To explore the anti-tumor impact of dht I on GBC and elucidate the potential molecular mechanisms. METHODS: The proliferation of GBC cells, NOZ and SGC-996, was assessed using various assays, including CCK-8 assay, colony formation assay and EdU staining. We also examined cell apoptosis, cell cycle progression, ROS levels, and alterations in mitochondrial membrane potential to delve into the intricate molecular mechanism. Quantitative PCR (qPCR), immunofluorescence staining, and Western blotting were performed to evaluate target gene expression at both the mRNA and protein levels. The correlation between nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1) were examined using co-immunoprecipitation. Finally, the in vivo effect of dht I was investigated using a xenograft model of gallbladder cancer in mice. RESULTS: Our research findings indicated that dht I exerted cytotoxic effects on GBC cells, including inhibiting proliferation, disrupting mitochondrial membrane potential, inducing oxidative stress and apoptosis. Our in vivo studies substantiated the inhibition of dht I on tumor growth in xenograft nude mice. Mechanistically, dht I primarily targeted Nrf2 by promoting Keap1 mediated Nrf2 degradation and inhibiting protein kinase C (PKC) induced Nrf2 phosphorylation. This leads to the suppression of Nrf2 nuclear translocation and reduction of its target gene expression. Moreover, Nrf2 overexpression effectively counteracted the anti-tumor effects of dht I, while Nrf2 knockdown significantly enhanced the inhibitory effect of dht I on GBC. Meanwhile, PKC inhibitors and nuclear import inhibitors increased the sensitivity of GBC cells to dht I treatment. Conversely, Nrf2 activators, proteasome inhibitors, antioxidants and PKC activators all antagonized dht I induced apoptosis and ROS generation in NOZ and SGC-996 cells. CONCLUSION: Our findings indicated that dht I inhibited the growth of GBC cells by regulating the Keap1-Nrf2 signaling pathway and Nrf2 phosphorylation. These insights provide a strong rationale for further investigation of dht I as a potential therapeutic agent for GBC treatment.

Salvia miltiorrhiza suppresses cardiomyocyte ferroptosis after myocardial infarction by activating Nrf2 signaling.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Ferroptosis, a recently identified non-apoptotic form of cell death reliant on iron, is distinguished by an escalation in lipid reactive oxygen species (ROS) that are iron-dependent. This phenomenon has a strong correlation with irregularities in iron metabolism and lipid peroxidation. Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge (DS), a medicinal herb frequently utilized in China, is highly esteemed for its therapeutic effectiveness in enhancing blood circulation and ameliorating blood stasis, particularly during the treatment of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Numerous pharmacological studies have identified that DS manifests antioxidative stress effects as well as inhibits lipid peroxidation. However, ambiguity persists regarding the potential of DS to impede ferroptosis in cardiomyocytes and subsequently improve myocardial damage post-myocardial infarction (MI). AIM OF THE STUDY: The present work focused on investigating whether DS could be used to prevent the ferroptosis of cardiomyocytes and improve post-MI myocardial damage. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In vivo experiments: Through ligation of the left anterior descending coronary artery, we constructed both a wild-type (WT) and NF-E2 p45-related factor 2 knockout (Nrf2-/-) mouse model of MI. Effects of DS and ferrostatin-1 (Fer-1) on post-MI cardiomyocyte ferroptosis were examined through detecting ferroptosis and myocardial damage-related indicators as well as Nrf2 signaling-associated protein levels. In vitro experiments: Erastin was used for stimulating H9C2 cardiomyocytes to construct an in vitro ferroptosis cardiomyocyte model. Effects of DS and Fer-1 on cardiomyocyte ferroptosis were determined based on ferroptosis-related indicators and Nrf2 signaling-associated protein levels. Additionally, inhibitor and activator of Nrf2 were used for confirming the impact of Nrf2 signaling on DS's effect on cardiomyocyte ferroptosis. RESULTS: In vivo: In comparison to the model group, DS suppressed ferroptosis in cardiomyocytes post-MI and ameliorated myocardial damage by inducing Nrf2 signaling-related proteins (Nrf2, xCT, GPX4), diminishing tissue ferrous iron and malondialdehyde (MDA) content. Additionally, it enhanced glutathione (GSH) levels and total superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, effects that are aligned with those of Fer-1. Moreover, the effect of DS on alleviating cardiomyocyte ferroptosis after MI could be partly inhibited through Nrf2 knockdown. In vitro: Compared with the erastin group, DS inhibited cardiomyocyte ferroptosis by promoting the expression of Nrf2 signaling-related proteins, reducing ferrous iron, ROS, and MDA levels, but increasing GSH content and SOD activity, consistent with the effect of Fer-1. Additionally, Nrf2 inhibition increased erastin-mediated ferroptosis of cardiomyocytes through decreasing Nrf2 signaling-related protein expressions. Co-treatment with DS and Nrf2 activator failed to further enhance the anti-ferroptosis effect of DS. CONCLUSION: MI is accompanied by cardiomyocyte ferroptosis, whose underlying mechanism is probably associated with Nrf2 signaling inhibition. DS possibly suppresses ferroptosis of cardiomyocytes and improves myocardial damage after MI through activating Nrf2 signaling.