Pharmacological Research - Modern Chinese Medicine最新文献

{"title":"Qiangyang decoction attenuates ischemia/reperfusion-induced cardiomyocyte ferroptosis via ULK1/KEAP1/Nrf2 axis","authors":"Jing Wang ,&nbsp;Wan Cai ,&nbsp;Jingxuan Chen ,&nbsp;Wenjin Wang ,&nbsp;Wentao Fu ,&nbsp;Wen Ge ,&nbsp;Hao Chi","doi":"10.1016/j.prmcm.2024.100560","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.prmcm.2024.100560","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Myocardial ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) induced cardiomyocyte death is a major cause of cardiac dysfunction and fibrosis. Ferroptosis of cardiomyocytes has been demonstrated to contribute to I/R induced injury. Qiangyang decoction (QYD) is commonly used in clinical treatment of hypertension and cardiac fibrosis. However, the intervention effect of QYD on I/R injury, especially its therapeutic efficacy on ferroptosis in cardiomyocytes, remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the effect of QYD against I/R induced cardiomyocyte ferroptosis and to reveal the underlying mechanism.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>In this study, UPLC-MS/MS was conducted to identify the component of QYD. An in vivo I/R mouse model and an in vitro cardiomyocytes OGD model were utilized to evaluate the cardiac protective effect of QYD. Transcriptome analysis and western blotting assays were used to explore the mechanism.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>A high dose of QYD exerts a cardioprotective effect through inhibiting I/R-induced cardiomyocyte ferroptosis. A high dose of QYD ameliorated I/R and OGD injury; these beneficial effects were not further enhanced by the ferroptosis inhibitor Fer-1. Anti-ferroptosis factors FPN1, Homx1, and GPX4 were transcriptionally upregulated by QYD both in mouse heart and adult mouse cardiomyocytes (AMCMs). Consistently, the kelch like ECH associated protein 1 (KEAP1) level and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) degradation were remarkably suppressed. RNA-sequencing results revealed that unc-51 like autophagy activating kinase 1 (ULK1), a serine kinase mediating the autophagy-dependent degradation of KEAP1, was significantly up-regulated in QYD-treated mouse hearts. The ULK1 inhibitor SBI-0206965 abolished the inhibition of QYD on KEAP1 and notably weakened the cardiac protective effect.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>These findings suggest that QYD exerted cardiac protection by activating ULK1 and subsequently inhibited KEAP1, thereby enhancing Nrf2 level and initiating the transcription of ferroptosis-resistance genes. These findings highlight that QYD may serve as a cardioprotective strategy for I/R.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":101013,"journal":{"name":"Pharmacological Research - Modern Chinese Medicine","volume":"14 ","pages":"Article 100560"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-12-12","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143137973","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Jinxinkang granule alleviates chronic heart failure by enhancing GPER/AMPK/PCG-1α-mediated fatty acid oxidation","authors":"Haixiang Zhong ,&nbsp;Liu He ,&nbsp;Wanru Zhong ,&nbsp;Lili Wang ,&nbsp;Jianmin Luo ,&nbsp;Qi Chen ,&nbsp;Rong Li ,&nbsp;Rong Zhang ,&nbsp;Zhongqiu Liu ,&nbsp;Yuanyuan Cheng","doi":"10.1016/j.prmcm.2024.100556","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.prmcm.2024.100556","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Introduction</h3><div>Chronic heart failure (CHF) is considered to be the last battlefield of cardiovascular disease. Jinxinkang granule (JXK) is an integrated traditional Chinese medicine formula for treating CHF. Our previous clinical study showed that JXK could increase the left ventricular ejection fraction and reduce concomitant symptoms in patients with CHF. However, the molecular mechanism underlying the action of JXK on CHF has yet to be fully illustrated.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats under left anterior descending artery ligation model, C57BL/6 mice subcutaneously injected isoproterenol (ISO) model in vivo and H9c2 cells under oxygen glucose deprivation (OGD) in vitro were used to evaluate the effect of JXK against CHF. Cardiac function and morphology assessment using M-mode echocardiography, H&amp;E/Masson/WGA staining, western blotting analysis, real-time PCR detection, ATP and cAMP assays were used to explore the mechanism of JXK against CHF.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>JXK improved cardiac function and ameliorated cardiac fibrosis in both LAD-induced CHF rats and ISO-induced CHF mice, and protected cardiomyocytes from OGD injury in H9c2 cells. Moreover, JXK increased the level of ATP content and enhanced fatty acid oxidation by increasing CD36, CPT1A and ACADM expression. Mechanism study showed that JXK increased the GPER expression and cAMP level, promoted AMPK phosphorylation and PGC-1α expression. Additionally, molecular docking analysis showed that dihydroisotanshinone I has a high binding affinity with GPER at -8.5 kcal/mol, which has the similar binding sites with G-1, a GPER agonist. Importantly, after using the inhibitor of GPER (G15), the cardioprotective effect of JXK and the enhancing effect on the fatty acid oxidation were blocked.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>JXK effectively activated GPER/AMPK/PGC-1α signaling pathway to enhance the oxidation of fatty acid, thereby promoting cardiac energy metabolism production to ameliorate CHF.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":101013,"journal":{"name":"Pharmacological Research - Modern Chinese Medicine","volume":"14 ","pages":"Article 100556"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-12-10","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143137975","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Harnessing Traditional Chinese Medicine for myopathy: A comprehensive review of herbal therapeutics","authors":"Aswini Rajendran ,&nbsp;Veronica Elumalai ,&nbsp;Palanirajan Vijayaraj Kumar ,&nbsp;Karthikeyan Elumalai","doi":"10.1016/j.prmcm.2024.100557","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.prmcm.2024.100557","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Introduction</h3><div>Myopathy, a group of conditions affecting muscles, is characterized by muscle weakness and degeneration, resulting in reduced quality of life. While existing treatments primarily address symptoms, they often fail to target underlying causes and may produce adverse effects. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers a promising alternative through its herbal remedies, which aim to enhance muscle function, reduce inflammation, and promote cellular repair.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>This review investigates the current literature on Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) in the treatment of myopathy. Our analysis focused on particular herbs, such as Astragalus (Huang Qi), Ginseng (Ren Shen), and Angelica sinensis (Dang Gui), as well as herbal combinations like Bu Yang Huan Wu Tang. Through an evaluation of pharmacological research, clinical case studies, and controlled trials, we obtained valuable information regarding the therapeutic mechanisms and clinical efficacy of these TCM approaches.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Studies highlight the ability of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) herbs to protect and restore muscles through their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and metabolic regulatory properties. Investigations have demonstrated improvements in muscle strength, function, and patient outcomes. TCM showed potential supplementary benefits when integrated with standard medical approaches.</div></div><div><h3>Discussion</h3><div>Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers a comprehensive strategy for addressing myopathy, showing encouraging outcomes in enhancing muscle function and patient well-being. However, despite its potential benefits, there are still obstacles to overcome regarding consistency, risk management, and scientific verification. Additional studies are required to effectively incorporate TCM into established treatment protocols.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":101013,"journal":{"name":"Pharmacological Research - Modern Chinese Medicine","volume":"14 ","pages":"Article 100557"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-12-08","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143138010","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Hepatoprotective activity of Alstonia boonei (De Wild) stem bark in isoniazid-induced Wistar rats: Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and in silico evaluations","authors":"Adedotun F. Adesina ,&nbsp;Joseph T. Apata ,&nbsp;Olusegun O. Babalola ,&nbsp;Chiagoziem A. Otuechere ,&nbsp;Mukaila B. Adekola ,&nbsp;Gbenga S. Ogunleye ,&nbsp;Funke Asaolu","doi":"10.1016/j.prmcm.2024.100558","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.prmcm.2024.100558","url":null,"abstract":"&lt;div&gt;&lt;h3&gt;Introduction&lt;/h3&gt;&lt;div&gt;Liver damage is mainly caused by exposure to toxic chemicals and is a global health challenge. A variety of &lt;em&gt;Alstonia&lt;/em&gt; species including &lt;em&gt;Alstonia boonei&lt;/em&gt; has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicines (TCM) for the treatment of fever, asthma and as analgesics. In this research, the potential of &lt;em&gt;A. boonei&lt;/em&gt; stem bark ethanol extract and ethyl acetate fraction in restoring isoniazid-induced hepatic damage in rats was studied using antioxidative and anti-inflammatory mechanisms.&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div&gt;&lt;h3&gt;Methods&lt;/h3&gt;&lt;div&gt;&lt;em&gt;A. boonei&lt;/em&gt; stem bark was extracted with ethanol and fractionated with n-hexane, ethyl acetate, and butanol. &lt;em&gt;In vitro&lt;/em&gt; phytochemical screening and quantification, DPPH, ferrous ion chelating and ferric reducing antioxidant activity of the extracts were carried out. Determination of erythrocyte membrane stabilizing and inhibition of protein denaturation activity of the extracts and fractions were used to evaluate anti-inflammatory activity. Gas chromatography- mass spectrometry (GCMS) of the most active fraction was analyzed. A total of 18 and 35 (7 groups of 5) rats were used for both acute and sub-chronic toxicity studies respectively for a period of 60 days. The control group received normal saline, while 15 mg/kg isoniazid (INH) was used to induce liver toxicity. 25, 50 and 100 mg/kg ethyl acetate fractions (EAF), 50 mg/kg of ethanolic extract and 50 mg/kg vitamin C were used as treatment against INH-induced toxicity. The rats were sacrificed and plasma and liver tissues were obtained for biochemical and histological analyses. Plasma markers of hepatic function including alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate amino transferase (AST), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), albumin and bilirubin levels were determined. Activity of Liver enzyme antioxidants including superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase were also analyzed. Liver tissues were further subjected to histological analyses. &lt;em&gt;In silico&lt;/em&gt; molecular docking and ADMET studies were used to analyze the binding interactions with arginase 1 and thioredoxin reductase and physicochemical properties of the GC–MS identified compounds.&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div&gt;&lt;h3&gt;Results&lt;/h3&gt;&lt;div&gt;Phytochemicals including alkaloids, flavonoids and phenols were present in the plant's extract and fractions, while they also demonstrated antioxidant activity against DPPH radicals, and ferrous ion, with the ethyl acetate fraction possessing the highest antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. The ethanolic extract and ethyl acetate fraction of &lt;em&gt;A. boonei&lt;/em&gt; stem bark demonstrated significant reductions in the elevated levels of plasma liver function enzymes and were also able to significantly restore the activities of enzyme antioxidants (SOD and catalase). Furthermore, restorations in liver histoarchitecture were observed in groups treated with the extract and fractions. &lt;em&gt;In silico&lt;/em&gt; analysis revealed hi","PeriodicalId":101013,"journal":{"name":"Pharmacological Research - Modern Chinese Medicine","volume":"14 ","pages":"Article 100558"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-12-08","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143138022","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"A mechanistic review on Zanthoxylum species for anti-inflammatory and analgesic potentials","authors":"Acharya Balkrishna ,&nbsp;Meenakshi Panwar ,&nbsp;Sakshi Mishra ,&nbsp;Vidushi Kala ,&nbsp;Vedpriya Arya ,&nbsp;Anurag Dabas","doi":"10.1016/j.prmcm.2024.100553","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.prmcm.2024.100553","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Introduction</h3><div>In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), <em>Zanthoxylum</em> species are valued for their analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, relieving pain and controlling inflammation. The study aimed to provide insight into how <em>Zanthoxylum</em> species reduce inflammation and pain by targeting molecular pathways and regulating immune responses.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>A structured literature search on PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar using targeted keywords yielded a broad selection of sources, which were refined to include 104 articles and 50 books from 1978 to 2023 based on strict criteria. Data extraction focused on identifying bioactive compounds and synthesizing insights into the therapeutic mechanisms of <em>Zanthoxylum</em> species, particularly the key pathways involved.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Only 13 of the 33 traditionally used species were shown to be effective in analgesic responses, and only two were employed in treating inflammation ailments. In comparison, 18 species were found to have both anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. Furthermore, 16 species exhibited anti-inflammatory and analgesic potential in various in-vitro/in-vivo studies. Only ten species studied had anti-inflammatory responses, two had analgesic activity, and four had both anti-inflammatory and analgesic responses. Bioactive compounds like zanthoxylumamides, zanthoaustrones C, tetrahydrobungeanol, decarene, and zanthoxylumamide B exhibit anti-inflammatory effects through MyD88, IRF3, MAPK, and NF-κB pathways. Additionally, the alkaloid benzophenanthridine and essential oils from various plant parts provide analgesic effects by reducing writhing and flinching responses.</div></div><div><h3>Discussion</h3><div>Modern studies support the traditional use of <em>Zanthoxylum</em> species for inflammation and pain, highlighting anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects via key pathways and suggesting further clinical validation for safety and efficacy.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":101013,"journal":{"name":"Pharmacological Research - Modern Chinese Medicine","volume":"13 ","pages":"Article 100553"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142748716","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Understanding Ganoderma lucidum (Curtis) P. Karst's multipronged potential in improving drug delivery methods and its application in the management of prostate cancer","authors":"Salik Abdullah ,&nbsp;Vivek Bakshi ,&nbsp;Shreya Mukherjee ,&nbsp;Sayandip Paul ,&nbsp;Haider Ali Mollick ,&nbsp;Sk Maksuda ,&nbsp;Biplab Debnath","doi":"10.1016/j.prmcm.2024.100554","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.prmcm.2024.100554","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Introduction</h3><div>Prostate cancer is the second most prevalent form of cancer in males worldwide, representing a significant global health concern and imposing a substantial health consequence. This type of cancer remains \"localized\" when tumour cells are confined to the prostate or have spread slightly past it (extra-prostatic extension), but have not metastasized to other areas of the body and is considered \"advanced\" when it progresses to other areas of the body.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>The present review examines the literature relating <em>Ganoderma lucidum</em> to prostate cancer and the development in nanotechnology-based delivery systems. To relate all three and find a link, a thorough search of literature for more than past 3 decades was done on TCM Bank, TCMSP, PubMed, Google Scholar, ResearchGate, Embase, and ScienceDirect with keywords such as ‘Lingzhi', Traditional Chinese Medicine,<em>G. lucidum</em> polysaccharides, role of TCM in prostate cancer.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Conventional cancer treatments might result in significant adverse reactions, making compounds from natural origin a potentially favourable option for cancer therapy. <em>Ganoderma lucidum</em> (<em>G. lucidum</em>), has been extensively utilized in Asian countries for more than two thousand years to promote health and life expectancy. The Shennong's Herbal Classic documented \"Chizhi,\" \"Qingzhi,\" \"Heizhi,\" \"Baizhi,\" \"Huangzhi,\" and \"Zizhi.\" All six varieties of Ganoderma enhance vision, reinforce muscles and bones, bolster renal function, and calm the nerves.Research has established that <em>G. lucidum</em> possesses substantial efficacy in preventing and treating various forms of cancer, including the cancer of the prostate. <em>G. lucidum</em> has demonstrated strong anticancer properties by targeting specific cancer cells, triggering apoptosis, and suppressing tumour growth. Furthermore, formulations utilizing nanotechnology have shown immunomodulatory effects by stimulating the activation of immune cells and improving the body's defence mechanisms.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div><em>G. lucidum</em>, in conjunction with the endless possibilities of nanotechnology, offers a promising frontier in the advancement of innovative therapeutic and biological applications for the treatment of prostate cancer. Additional investigation and advancement in this interdisciplinary domain are necessary to fully harness the combined advantages provided by <em>G. Lucidum</em> and nanotechnology, ultimately resulting in groundbreaking advances in healthcare and well-being.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":101013,"journal":{"name":"Pharmacological Research - Modern Chinese Medicine","volume":"13 ","pages":"Article 100554"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143151049","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Immunomodulatory effect of compound Xuelian capsule on experimental autoimmune myasthenia gravis in mice","authors":"Fukai Gong ,&nbsp;Jianhua Wu ,&nbsp;Min Jiao ,&nbsp;Yalan Ma ,&nbsp;Shilei Zhang ,&nbsp;Qiming Han ,&nbsp;Hongyan Li","doi":"10.1016/j.prmcm.2024.100549","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.prmcm.2024.100549","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Introduction</h3><div>This study aimed to explore the immunomodulatory effects of Xuelian capsules in experimental autoimmune myasthenia gravis (EAMG) mice.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>Female C57BL/6 mice were immunized with AChR-α subunit R97–116 peptide to induce EAMG. Mice were randomized into five groups: EAMG model (<em>n</em> = 8), prednisone (<em>n</em> = 7), and low-, middle-, and high-dose Xuelian capsule groups (<em>n</em> = 7, 7, 8). Hematological parameters and NLR were assessed using an automatic hematology analyzer. Serum AchR-Ab, IFN-γ, IL-4, IL-10 levels were measured by ELISA. Thymus pathology was evaluated by HE staining. Spleen mRNA levels of TGF-β, IL-17, IL-6, IFN-γ were quantified by qPCR, and spleen cell populations by flow cytometry.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Xuelian capsules significantly reduced the ratio of NLR in peripheral blood, the concentration of AchR-Ab, IFN-γ, and IL-4 in serum, the expression of TGF-β, IL-17, IL-6, and IFN-γ in the spleen, and the proportion of CD4+/IL-4+ and CD4+/IFN-γ+ cells in the spleen, while increasing the concentration of IL-10 in the serum and the proportion of CD4+/Treg cells in the spleen. It also improved pathological changes in the thymus tissue of mice.</div></div><div><h3>Discussion</h3><div>One of the possible mechanisms of Xuelian capsules in the treatment of myasthenia gravis is to improve the pathological structure of the thymus of EAMG mice by inhibiting inflammatory factors and improving immunity, which then affects the occurrence and development of inflammation to achieve anti-inflammation, thus improving myasthenia gravis (MG).</div></div>","PeriodicalId":101013,"journal":{"name":"Pharmacological Research - Modern Chinese Medicine","volume":"13 ","pages":"Article 100549"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143151050","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Protective effects of nutrients and antioxidant-rich seed oil and sprouted seed oil of Benincasa hispida against formaldehyde-induced hepatic and renal damage","authors":"Md. Boniamin ,&nbsp;Md. Shihab Uddin Sohag ,&nbsp;Md. Saju Ahmad ,&nbsp;Md. Ratul Hasan ,&nbsp;Sabina Yeasmin Sumi ,&nbsp;Quazi Istiaque Bari ,&nbsp;Sanjay Dutta ,&nbsp;Muhammad Abdul Mojid Mondol ,&nbsp;Mst. Jesmin Sultana ,&nbsp;Fazle Rabbi Shakil Ahmed","doi":"10.1016/j.prmcm.2024.100555","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.prmcm.2024.100555","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Introduction</h3><div>In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), <em>Benincasa hispida,</em> commonly referred to as wax gourd, winter melon, or ash gourd, has been used extensively for managing fever, urinary dysfunction, cough with viscous mucus, pulmonary and periappendicular abscesses, edema, spermatorrhea, gonorrhea, discharge pus, and expel dampness. In this study, we investigated the antioxidant, macro- and micronutrients as well as the protective effects of <em>Benincasa hispida</em> seed oil (BHSO) and sprouted seed oil (BHSSO) against formaldehyde (FA)-induced liver and kidney damage in mice.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>The <em>in vitro</em> antioxidant activity was evaluated using the DPPH radical scavenging assay. Protein, fat, fiber, and total carbohydrate contents were assessed, and micronutrients were determined using flame atomic absorption spectrophotometry. BHSO, BHSSO, and Vitamin E (3485 mg/kg, 3485 mg/kg, and 30 mg/kg p.o., respectively) were administered once daily shortly after formaldehyde exposure (10 mg/kg, I.P.) to separate groups of Swiss albino male mice for a period of 26 days to investigate their protective effects against hepatic and renal damage. The normal control group was given access to sterile tap water and a balanced diet, whereas the disease control group was given only 10 mg/kg of formaldehyde intraperitoneally.</div></div><div><h3>Results and discussion</h3><div>Serum ALT, AST, and creatinine levels were significantly elevated after formaldehyde (FA) administration. Histopathological examinations of liver and kidney tissue revealed degenerative changes in both organs. However, mice pretreated with BHSO and BHSSO showed a significant reduction in FA-induced elevations of serum ALT, AST, and creatinine levels and retained normal liver and kidney tissue histology. BHSO and BHSSO exhibited the ability to scavenge free radicals, as shown <em>in vitro</em> antioxidant studies. Essential micronutrients like zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), calcium (Ca), and chromium (Cr) were also found in both oils. These micronutrients may prevent the inactivation of antioxidant enzymes, thereby increasing free radical scavenging and preserving oxidation and antioxidant equilibrium. Moreover, both oils were found to contain crude fat and carbohydrates that are essential in safeguarding against formaldehyde-induced hepatic and renal damage by offering structural and metabolic support to cells and preserving membrane integrity.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div><em>Benincasa hispida</em> seed oil and sprouted seed oil have significant protective effects against formaldehyde-induced hepatic and renal damage and serve as a valuable source of antioxidants, as well as macro- and micronutrients.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":101013,"journal":{"name":"Pharmacological Research - Modern Chinese Medicine","volume":"13 ","pages":"Article 100555"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143150321","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Exploring the pharmacological mechanism of Tongluo Qingnao formula in treating acute ischemic stroke: A combined approach of network pharmacology, molecular docking and experimental evidences","authors":"Feng Li ,&nbsp;Yilei Dong ,&nbsp;Guangrui Wang ,&nbsp;Zishan Huang ,&nbsp;Wenting Song ,&nbsp;Xiaoyu Zheng ,&nbsp;Peng Zhang ,&nbsp;Mingjiang Yao","doi":"10.1016/j.prmcm.2024.100550","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.prmcm.2024.100550","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Introduction</h3><div>Tongluo Qingnao (TLQN) Formula is a patent Traditional Chinese Medicine injection designed for the treatment of Acute Ischemic Stroke (AIS) and associated complications. Previous researches had shown promising potential of TLQN in treating ischemic brain edema. This study aimed to reveal specific mechanisms of TLQN in treating AIS by bioinformatics analysis and following confirmatory experiments.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>HPLC was used to analyze the active ingredients of TLQN. Network Pharmacology and Molecular Docking were introduced to screen treatment targets and pathways. And then middle cerebral artery occlusion and reperfusion (MCAO/R) model was established in rats to verify the therapeutic effect of TLQN in neurological deficit score, cerebral infarction size, HE staining, TUNEL staining, and proteins expression related to inflammation, apoptosis and the PI3K-AKT signaling pathway.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Seven main active ingredients were contained in TLQN. Network pharmacology identified IL-6 and IL-1β as the key targets, and PI3K-AKT as the critical pathway. Molecular Docking analysis indicated that the constituents of TLQN demonstrated a high affinity for crucial targets. TLQN could significantly reduce neurological deficits, pathological lesions and apoptosis caused by AIS. Western blotting results indicated that TLQN can activate the PI3K-AKT signaling pathway, inhibit the expression of pro-apoptotic proteins bax, Caspase-3 and inflammatory factors IL-6, IL-1β.</div></div><div><h3>Discussion</h3><div>TLQN has a therapeutic effect on AIS, and these results highlight the therapeutic effects of TLQN on AIS by activating PI3K-AKT signaling pathway to inhibit inflammation and apoptosis.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":101013,"journal":{"name":"Pharmacological Research - Modern Chinese Medicine","volume":"13 ","pages":"Article 100550"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-11-23","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142703333","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Effect of Eriobotrya japonica L. (Chinese medicinal plant) on the regulation of lipid metabolism in atherosclerosis-induced mice and in HepG-2 cells","authors":"Imane Mokhtari ,&nbsp;Dragan Milenkovic ,&nbsp;Souliman Amrani ,&nbsp;Hicham Harnafi","doi":"10.1016/j.prmcm.2024.100552","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.prmcm.2024.100552","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Hyperlipidemia and related metabolic disorders are the main cause of nonalcoholic fatty liver diseases, atherosclerosis and cardiovascular complications. Loquat (<em>Eriobotrya japonica</em>) leaf infusion is an innovative formula derived from Traditional Chinese medicine, known for its therapeutic properties against a number of ailments including inflammation, diabetes and hyperlipidemia.</div></div><div><h3>Aim of the study</h3><div>This study was designed to identify the active compounds of an aqueous extract of <em>E. japonica</em> leaves (ELE) and to investigate its effect on hyperlipidemia and related metabolic complications in high-fat high-sucrose diet-fed mice as well as to elucidate the possible underlying mechanisms.</div></div><div><h3>Materials and Methods</h3><div>Mice were fed a high-fat high-sucrose diet for 3 months and treated with the ELE at doses of 50 mg/kg and 100 mg/kg. Lipids in plasma, liver, adipose tissue, bile and feces were quantified using enzymatic kits. Liver steatosis and oxidative status were highlighted by measuring AST, ALT, ALP, MDA, SOD and catalase activities as well as monitoring of lipid droplets in histological sections. The identification and quantification of possible active compounds were carried out using the HPLC-DAD method. The underlying mechanisms were predicted by <em>in silico</em> study and confirmed by quantifying the expression of the principal involved proteins including PCSK-9, CYP7A1 and p-AMPK in HepG2 cells.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>The ELE restored lipid metabolism and improved liver histological structures. It also reduced oxidative stress by lowering MDA levels and activating SOD and catalase enzymes. The ELE prevented hepatic steatosis and corrected transaminases profile. HPLC analysis reveals seven phenolic compounds, with ferulic acid being the major one. The extract and its identified phenolic compounds upregulated the expression of CYP7A1 and p-AMPK while downregulated the expression of PCSK-9 in HepG2 cells. The ELE appears to be nontoxic in mice (LD₅₀&gt;5000 mg/kg) and in HepG2 cells at pharmacologically active doses.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>the ELE could be considered as a source of active biomolecules to produce phytotherapeutics drugs or dietary supplements to treat hyperlipidemia and related cardio-metabolic diseases.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":101013,"journal":{"name":"Pharmacological Research - Modern Chinese Medicine","volume":"13 ","pages":"Article 100552"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-11-22","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142703334","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}