Journal of ethnopharmacology最新文献

{"title":"Effect and mechanism of Jinkui Shenqi Pill on preventing neural tube defects in mice based on network pharmacology.","authors":"Liangqi Xie, Min Hu, Yingying Gan, Yi Ru, Baoguo Xiao, Xiaoming Jin, Cungen Ma, Zhi Chai, Huijie Fan","doi":"10.1016/j.jep.2024.118587","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jep.2024.118587","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Ethnopharmacological relevance: </strong>jinkui Shenqi Pill (JSP) is a classic traditional Chinese medicine used to treat \"Kidney Yang Deficiency\" disease. Previous studies indicate a protective effect of JSP on apoptosis in mouse neurons.</p><p><strong>Aim of the study: </strong>This research, combining network pharmacology with in vivo experiments, explores the mechanism of JSP in preventing neural tube defects (NTDs) in mice.</p><p><strong>Materials and methods: </strong>Network pharmacology analyzed JSP components and targets, identifying common genes with NTDs and exploring potential pathways. Molecular docking assessed interactions between key JSP components and pathway proteins. In an all-trans retinoic acid (atRA)-induced NTDs mouse model, histopathological changes were observed using HE staining, neuronal apoptosis was detected using TUNEL, and Western Blot assessed changes in the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway and apoptosis-related proteins.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Different concentrations of JSP led to varying degrees of reduction in the occurrence of neural tube defects in mouse embryos, with the highest dose showing the most significant decrease. Furthermore, it showed a better reduction in NTDs rates compared to folic acid (FA). Network pharmacology constructed a Drug-Active Ingredient-Gene Target network, suggesting key active ingredients such as Quercetin, Wogonin, Beta-Sitosterol, Kaempferol, and Stigmasterol, possibly acting on the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. Molecular docking confirmed stable binding structures. Western Blot analysis demonstrated increased expression of p-PI3K, p-Akt, p-Akt1, p-Akt2, p-Akt3, downregulation of cleaved caspase-3 and Bax, and upregulation of Bcl-2, indicating prevention of NTDs through anti-apoptotic effects.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>We have identified an effective dosage of JSP for preventing NTDs, revealing its potential by activating the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway and inhibiting cell apoptosis in atRA-induced mouse embryonic NTDs.</p>","PeriodicalId":15761,"journal":{"name":"Journal of ethnopharmacology","volume":null,"pages":null},"PeriodicalIF":4.8,"publicationDate":"2024-11-15","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"141723729","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"ZiBu PiYin recipe regulates central and peripheral Aβ metabolism and improves diabetes-associated cognitive decline in ZDF rats","authors":"","doi":"10.1016/j.jep.2024.118808","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jep.2024.118808","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Ethnopharmacological relevance</h3><p>Cognitive impairment caused by central neuropathy in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), namely diabetes-associated cognitive decline (DACD), is one of the common complications in patients with T2DM. Studies have shown that brain β-amyloid (Aβ) deposition is a typical pathological change in patients with DACD, and that there is a close relationship between intestinal microorganisms and cognitive impairment. However, the specific mechanism(s) of alteration in Aβ metabolism in DACD, and of the correlation between Aβ metabolism and intestinal microorganisms remain unknown.</p></div><div><h3>Aim of the study</h3><p>Revealing the mechanism of ZBPYR regulating Aβ metabolism and providing theoretical basis for clinical evaluation and diagnosis of DACD.</p></div><div><h3>Materials and methods</h3><p>We characterized Aβ metabolism in the central and peripheral tissues of Zucker diabetic fatty (ZDF) rats with DACD, and then explored the preventive and therapeutic effects of ZiBu PiYin Recipe (ZBPYR). Specifically, we assessed these animals for the formation, transport, and clearance of Aβ; the morphological structure of the blood-brain barrier (BBB); and the potential correlation between Aβ metabolism and intestinal microorganisms.</p></div><div><h3>Results</h3><p>ZBPYR provided improvements in the structure of the BBB, attenuation of Aβ deposition in the central and peripheral tissues, and a delay in the development of DACD by improving the expression of Aβ production, transport, and clearance related protein in ZDF rats. In addition, ZBPYR improved the diversity and composition of intestinal microorganisms, decreased the abundance of <em>Coprococcus</em>, a bacterium closely related to Aβ production, and up regulate the abundance of <em>Streptococcus</em>, a bacterium closely related to Aβ clearance.</p></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><p>The mechanism of ZBPYR ability to ameliorate DACD may be closely related to changes in the intestinal microbiome.</p></div>","PeriodicalId":15761,"journal":{"name":"Journal of ethnopharmacology","volume":null,"pages":null},"PeriodicalIF":4.8,"publicationDate":"2024-09-17","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142240882","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Network pharmacology and phytochemical composition combined with validation in vivo and in vitro reveal the mechanism of platycodonis radix ameliorating PM2.5-induced acute lung injury","authors":"","doi":"10.1016/j.jep.2024.118829","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jep.2024.118829","url":null,"abstract":"&lt;div&gt;&lt;h3&gt;Ethnopharmacological relevance&lt;/h3&gt;&lt;p&gt;Platycodonis radix (PR), the root of &lt;em&gt;Platycodon grandiflorus&lt;/em&gt; (Jacq.) A. DC., is a traditional Chinese medicine recognized for its dual role as both a medicinal and dietary substance, exhibiting significant anti&lt;strong&gt;-&lt;/strong&gt;inflammatory properties. It is frequently utilized in the treatment of lung diseases. However, the molecular mechanisms by which PR exerts its effects in the treatment of acute lung injury (ALI) remain unclear.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div&gt;&lt;h3&gt;Aim of the study&lt;/h3&gt;&lt;p&gt;This study presents a novel strategy that integrates network pharmacology, molecular docking, untargeted metabolomics analysis and experimental validation to investigate the molecular mechanisms through which PR treats ALI.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div&gt;&lt;h3&gt;Materials and method&lt;/h3&gt;&lt;p&gt;Initially, the bioactive components of PR, along with its targets and pathways in the treatment of ALI, were identified using network pharmacology. Following this, preliminary validation was conducted through molecular docking. The active ingredients in the aqueous extract of PR were characterized using HPLC-MS. Finally, &lt;em&gt;in vivo&lt;/em&gt; and &lt;em&gt;in vitro&lt;/em&gt; experiments were performed to further validate the findings from the network pharmacology.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div&gt;&lt;h3&gt;Results&lt;/h3&gt;&lt;p&gt;A total of 14 bioactive components and 156 effective targets were identified using the TCMSP, DisGeNET, Genecard, OMIM databases and Venny 2.1.0. Protein-protein interaction (PPI) analysis revealed 22 core targets including TP53, AKT1, STAT3 and JUN. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analyses indicated that these targets primarily participate in the regulation of cellular apoptosis, lung cancer and inflammatory pathways. Molecular docking demonstrated that four bioactive components exhibited strong affinities with their respective docking targets. LC-MS analysis confirmed that the aqueous extract of PR contained 87 components, including two active ingredients identified through network pharmacology and molecular docking. Preliminary validation was conducted in mice with ALI induced by acute PM2.5 exposure, revealing that the aqueous extract of PR reduced inflammatory factor levels in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, enhanced antioxidant capacity in lung tissue, and decreased lung cell apoptosis in PM2.5-exposed mice. Notably, PR alleviated PM2.5-induced ALI through the STAT3, JUN, and AKT1 signaling pathways. Similarly, the results of &lt;em&gt;in vitro&lt;/em&gt; intervention experiments further confirmed that the aqueous extract of PR protected pulmonary epithelial cells against PM2.5 exposure through activating AKT1 sinalling pathway, and inhibiting STAT3 and JUN signalling pathways.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div&gt;&lt;h3&gt;Conclusion&lt;/h3&gt;&lt;p&gt;This study identifies the active components of PR and elucidates the molecular mechanisms by which PR alleviates ALI, specifically by inhibiting the phosphorylation levels of STAT3 and c-JUN, or by activating the phosphorylation ","PeriodicalId":15761,"journal":{"name":"Journal of ethnopharmacology","volume":null,"pages":null},"PeriodicalIF":4.8,"publicationDate":"2024-09-13","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142240963","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Qian Yang Yu Yin Granule prevents hypertensive cardiac remodeling by inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome activation via Nrf2","authors":"","doi":"10.1016/j.jep.2024.118820","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jep.2024.118820","url":null,"abstract":"&lt;div&gt;&lt;h3&gt;Ethnopharmacological relevance&lt;/h3&gt;&lt;p&gt;Qian Yang Yu Yin Granule (QYYYG), a traditional Chinese poly-herbal formulation, has been validated in clinical trials to mitigate cardiac remodeling (CR), and cardiac damage in patients with hypertension. However, the specific mechanism remains unclear.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div&gt;&lt;h3&gt;Aim of the study&lt;/h3&gt;&lt;p&gt;This study explored the potential effects and potential mechanisms of QYYYG on hypertensive CR by combining various experimental approaches.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div&gt;&lt;h3&gt;Materials and methods&lt;/h3&gt;&lt;p&gt;Spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs) were used as a model of hypertensive CR, followed by QYYYG interventions. Blood pressure, cardiac function and structure, histopathological changes, and myocardial inflammation and oxidative stress were tested to assess the efficacy of QYYYG in SHRs. For &lt;em&gt;in vitro&lt;/em&gt; experiments, a cell model of myocardial hypertrophy and injury was constructed with isoprenaline. Cardiomyocyte hypertrophy, oxidative stress, and death were examined after treatment with different concentrations of QYYYG, and transcriptomics analyses were performed to explore the underlying mechanism. Nrf2 and the ROS/NF-κB/NLRP3 inflammasome pathway were detected. Thereafter, ML385 and siRNAs were used to inhibit Nrf2 in cardiomyocytes, so as to verify whether QYYYG negatively regulates the NLRP3 inflammasome by targeting Nrf2, thereby ameliorating the associated phenotypes. Finally, high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was conducted to analyze the active ingredients in QYYYG, and molecular docking was utilized to preliminarily screen the compounds with modulatory effects on Nrf2 activities.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div&gt;&lt;h3&gt;Results&lt;/h3&gt;&lt;p&gt;QYYYG improved blood pressure, cardiac function, and structural remodeling and attenuated myocardial inflammation, oxidative stress, and cell death in SHRs. The transcriptomics results showed that the inflammatory response might be crucial in pathological CR and that Nrf2, which potentially negatively regulates the process, was upregulated by QYYYG treatment. Furthermore, QYYYG indeed facilitated Nrf2 activation and negatively regulated the ROS/NF-κB/NLRP3 inflammasome pathway, therefore ameliorating the associated phenotypes. &lt;em&gt;In vitro&lt;/em&gt; inhibition or knockdown of Nrf2 weakened or even reversed the repressive effect of QYYYG on ISO-induced inflammation, oxidative stress, pyroptosis, and the NLRP3 inflammasome activation. Based on the results of HPLC and molecular docking, 30 compounds, including cafestol, genistein, hesperetin, and formononetin, have binding sites to Keap1–Nrf2 protein and might affect the activity or stability of Nrf2.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div&gt;&lt;h3&gt;Conclusion&lt;/h3&gt;&lt;p&gt;In conclusion, the alleviatory effect of QYYYG on hypertensive CR is related to its regulation of Nrf2 activation. Specifically, QYYYG blocks the activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome by boosting Nrf2 signaling and depressing myocardial inflammation, oxidative stress, and pyroptosis, thereby effectively amelioratin","PeriodicalId":15761,"journal":{"name":"Journal of ethnopharmacology","volume":null,"pages":null},"PeriodicalIF":4.8,"publicationDate":"2024-09-13","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142240960","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Review on ginseng and its potential active substance G-Rg2 against age-related diseases: Traditional efficacy and mechanism","authors":"","doi":"10.1016/j.jep.2024.118781","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jep.2024.118781","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Ethnopharmacological relevance</h3><p>According to the Shen Nong Herbal Classic, Ginseng (<em>Panax ginseng</em> C.A. Meyer) is documented to possess life-prolonging effects and is extensively utilized in traditional Chinese medicine for the treatment of various ailments such as qi deficiency, temper deficiency, insomnia, and forgetfulness. Ginseng is commonly employed for replenishing qi and nourishing blood, fortifying the body and augmenting immunity; it has demonstrated efficacy in alleviating fatigue, enhancing memory, and retarding aging. Furthermore, it exhibits a notable ameliorative impact on age-related conditions including cardiovascular diseases and neurodegenerative disorders. One of its active constituents - ginsenoside Rg2 (G-Rg2) - exhibits potential therapeutic efficacy in addressing these ailments.</p></div><div><h3>Aim of the review</h3><p>The aim of this review is to explore the traditional efficacy of ginseng in anti-aging diseases and the modern pharmacological mechanism of its potential active substance G-Rg2, in order to provide strong theoretical support for further elucidating the mechanism of its anti-aging effect.</p></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><p>This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the traditional efficacy of ginseng and the potential mechanisms underlying the anti-age-related disease properties of G-Rg2, based on an extensive literature review up to March 12, 2024, from PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Cochrane, and Google Scholar databases. Potential anti-aging mechanisms of G-Rg2 were predicted using network pharmacology and molecular docking analysis techniques.</p></div><div><h3>Results</h3><p>In traditional Chinese medicine theory, ginseng has been shown to improve aging-related diseases with a variety of effects, including tonifying qi, strengthening the spleen and stomach, nourishing yin, regulating yin and yang, as well as calming the mind. Its potential active ingredient G-Rg2 has demonstrated significant therapeutic potential in age-related diseases, especially central nervous system and cardiovascular diseases. G-Rg2 exhibited a variety of pharmacological activities, including anti-apoptotic, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Meanwhile, the network pharmacological analyses and molecular docking results were consistent with the existing literature review, further validating the potential efficacy of G-Rg2 as an anti-aging agent.</p></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><p>The review firstly explores the ameliorative effects of ginseng on a wide range of age-related diseases based on TCM theories. Secondly, the article focuses on the remarkable significance and value demonstrated by G-Rg2 in age-related cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases. Consequently, G-Rg2 has broad prospects for development in intervening in aging and treating age-related health problems.</p></div>","PeriodicalId":15761,"journal":{"name":"Journal of ethnopharmacology","volume":null,"pages":null},"PeriodicalIF":4.8,"publicationDate":"2024-09-12","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142241048","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Anemarrhena asphodeloides Bunge total saponins lower lipid via modulating MAOA activity to enhance defense mechanisms in mice and C. elegans","authors":"","doi":"10.1016/j.jep.2024.118814","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jep.2024.118814","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Ethnopharmacological relevance</h3><p>Within <em>Anemarrhena asphodeloides</em> Bunge (AAB), the pivotal bioactive constituents are identified as <em>Anemarrhena asphodeloides</em> Bunge total saponins (ABS). In traditional pharmacology, ABS has exhibited notable anti-inflammatory, hypoglycemic, and cardioprotective properties. Despite these observed effects, the specific protective mechanisms of ABS against metabolic diseases and improving the endocrine system remain largely uncharted.</p></div><div><h3>Aim to study</h3><p>This work intends to shed light on the effects and intrinsic mechanisms of ABS on metabolic diseases.</p></div><div><h3>Materials and methods</h3><p>The characterization of ABS components was achieved through High-Performance Liquid Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry (HPLC/MS). To evaluate ABS's anti-inflammatory efficacy, mouse macrophages underwent analysis using the Griess method. Induced differentiation of mouse fibroblasts was assessed through Oil Red O staining. In an obesity model with C57BL/6 N mice, ABS administration prompted measurements of glucose and insulin tolerance. Western blot analysis quantified lipolysis and anti-inflammatory protein expression. Nile red staining gauged body fat content in <em>C. elegans</em> post-ABS treatment. The mechanism of ABS action was elucidated through mRNA sequencing, further validated using RNA interference technology, and nematode mutants.</p></div><div><h3>Results</h3><p>ABS showcased the ability to diminish Nitric Oxide (NO) production in inflammatory macrophages and shrink adipocyte lipid droplets. In mice experiments, ABS was effective in alleviating fat accumulation and affecting serum lipid metabolism in diabetic mice. It enhanced oral glucose tolerance and insulin tolerance while increasing lipolysis-associated protein expression. ABS notably reduced fat content in <em>C. elegans</em>. Mechanistically, ABS downregulated NOD-like receptor thermal protein domain associated protein 3 (NLRP3) and monoamine oxidase A (MAOA) expression while enhancing UGT, <em>ilys-2</em>, and <em>ilys-3</em>. Lipolysis emerged as a pivotal pathway for ABS in the therapeutic intervention of metabolic diseases.</p></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><p>Our investigation has revealed that ABS exert a role in combating metabolic diseases by enhancing the body's defense mechanisms. ABS activate the NLRP3-neurotransmitter-visceral adipose pathway in mice, thereby bolstering resistance and diminishing fat accumulation. In <em>C. elegans</em>, ABS downregulated the expression of MAOA, bolstered resistance, and augmented glucuronidase activity, consequently leading to a reduction in fat content.</p></div>","PeriodicalId":15761,"journal":{"name":"Journal of ethnopharmacology","volume":null,"pages":null},"PeriodicalIF":4.8,"publicationDate":"2024-09-12","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142240881","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Traditional Chinese medication qili qiangxin capsule protects against myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury through suppressing autophagy via the phosphoinositide 3-kinase/protein kinase B/forkhead box O3 axis","authors":"","doi":"10.1016/j.jep.2024.118821","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jep.2024.118821","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Ethnopharmacological relevance</h3><p>Positive evidence from clinical trials highlights the promising potential of traditional Chinese medication, Qili qiangxin capsule (QLQX), on chronic heart failure; however, limited data are available regarding its effects and mechanism in myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury (MIRI). Herein, we aimed to explore cardioprotective effects and the underlying mechanism of QLQX in MIRI <em>in vivo</em> and <em>in vitro</em>.</p></div><div><h3>Materials and methods</h3><p>Mice were subjected to left anterior descending coronary artery ligation for 30 min followed by 24 h of reperfusion with or without 7-day pretreatment with QLQX (0.234, 0.468, or 0.936 g/kg). Cardiac function, myocardial infarction, and morphological changes were evaluated. The mechanism underlying the cardio-protection of QLQX on MIRI was determined by network pharmacology based on the common genes of potential targets of QLQX and MIRI-related genes, further validated by H9c2 cardiomyocytes exposing hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R). The viability, apoptosis, as well as autophagy and relevant signaling proteins in H9c2 were analyzed.</p></div><div><h3>Results</h3><p>QLQX pretreatment markedly improved cardiac function and decreased myocardium infarct size, apoptotic cardiomyocyte number, and LHD, CK-MB, and TnT levels in MIRI mice. QLQX could mitigate H/R-induced H9c2 cardiomyocyte injury, as evidenced by decreased cell apoptosis and LDH release and increased ATP production. QLQX effectively attenuates excessive autophagy in cardiomyocytes both <em>in vivo</em> and <em>in vitro</em>. Mechanically, network pharmacology analysis demonstrated the cardio-protection of QLQX on MIRI involving in PI3K/Akt signaling; the effects of QLQX on H/R-induced H9c2 cardiomyocytes were abolished by a specific PI3K inhibitor.</p></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><p>QLQX protects against cardiomyocyte apoptosis and excessive autophagy via PI3K/Akt signaling during MIRI.</p></div>","PeriodicalId":15761,"journal":{"name":"Journal of ethnopharmacology","volume":null,"pages":null},"PeriodicalIF":4.8,"publicationDate":"2024-09-12","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142171644","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Periostracum Cicadae exhibits immunosuppressive effects on dendritic cells and contact hypersensitivity responses","authors":"","doi":"10.1016/j.jep.2024.118824","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jep.2024.118824","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Ethnopharmacological relevance</h3><p>Periostracum Cicadae (PC), the molted exoskeleton of the cicada Cryptotympana pustulata Fabricius, is frequently employed in Chinese herbal medicine. Based on traditional therapies and pharmacological studies, PC appears to have immunomodulatory activity. However, the specific impact of PC on immunomodulation, particularly its effect on dendritic cells (DCs), remains unknown. DCs act professionally as antigen-presenting cells that trigger adaptive immune responses, making them critical for immunomodulation.</p></div><div><h3>Materials and methods</h3><p>The DCs derived from mouse bone marrow were used to examine the suppressive effect of PC extract on DC activation and maturation. The <em>in vivo</em> suppressive effect was evaluated using a mouse model of contact hypersensitivity (CHS) responses. The determination of the substances in the sample was performed by Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry/mass spectrometry.</p></div><div><h3>Results</h3><p>The ethyl acetate extract of PC (PCEA) significantly decreased the expressions of proinflammatory cytokines (IL-12, interleukin [IL]-6, as well as tumor necrosis factor [TNF]-α) and surface markers CD80 and CD86 in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated DCs. In the 2,4-dinitro-1-fluorobenzene-induced CHS mouse model, PCEA treatment dramatically attenuated the severity of symptoms. This was evidenced by the alleviation of ear swelling and a reduction in the count of infiltrating CD3⁺ T cells in the tested ears. In addition, N-acetyldopamine dimer and trimer were identified as major components.</p></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><p>This study is the first to show that components derived from PCEA inhibit the activation and maturation of DCs as well as CHS responses, indicating they have the potential for treating delayed-type hypersensitivity or DC-related immune disorders.</p></div>","PeriodicalId":15761,"journal":{"name":"Journal of ethnopharmacology","volume":null,"pages":null},"PeriodicalIF":4.8,"publicationDate":"2024-09-12","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378874124011231/pdfft?md5=02784360019ffcdd3f1c12ac2bb31fec&pid=1-s2.0-S0378874124011231-main.pdf","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142240962","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Studying the effects of Saposhnikoviae Radix on the pharmacokinetic profiles of 10 bioactive compounds originating from Astragali Radix in rat plasma by UHPLC-QTRAP-MS/MS","authors":"","doi":"10.1016/j.jep.2024.118813","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jep.2024.118813","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Ethnopharmacological relevance</h3><p>Astragali Radix-Saposhnikoviae Radix (AR-SR) is a well-known and effective herb pair. Although the compatibility of these two herbs has been widely applied in many traditional Chinese medicine formulas, its potential mechanism still needs to be investigated.</p></div><div><h3>Aim of study</h3><p>To evaluate the pharmacokinetic profiles of 10 bioactive compounds derived from AR when administrated alone and in combination with SR to rats, aiming to further reveal the impact of SR on AR.</p></div><div><h3>Materials and methods</h3><p>Two groups of male Sprague-Dawley rats received oral administration of AR and AR-SR freeze-dried powder solutions, respectively. UHPLC-QTRAP-MS/MS technology was utilized to perform the pharmacokinetic studies of 10 compounds derived from AR in rat plasma samples.</p></div><div><h3>Results</h3><p>A reliable UHPLC-QTRAP-MS/MS method was established to simultaneously determine the rat plasma concentrations of eight isoflavonoids, referring to calycosin (CAL), calycosin-7-<em>O</em>-β-D-glucoside (CAL-G), formononetin (FOR), formononetin-7-<em>O</em>-β-D-glucoside (FOR-G), astrapterocarpan (APC), astrapterocarpan-3-<em>O</em>-β-D-glucoside (APC-G), astraisoflavan-7-<em>O</em>-β-D-glucoside (AIF-G) and formononetin-7-<em>O</em>-β-D-glucuronide (FOR-GN), and two saponins, including astragaloside IV (AS IV) and cycloastragenol (CAG), originating from AR. Following the oral administration of AR, seven isoflavonoids were quickly absorbed but exhibited low plasma concentrations under 17.88 ng/mL except FOR-GN. The latter maintained higher plasma concentration level more than 15 ng/mL for at least 10 h. Besides, for the first time, AS IV was observed with an obvious double-peak phenomenon after administering AR extract, whereas the concentration of CAG was lower than LLOQ before 6 h. When AR and SR were administrated together, the double-peak phenomena of CAL, FOR, APC, AIF-G and FOR-GN were enhanced and there was a significant increase in their values of area under the concentration-time curve (AUC) and mean residence time (MRT) (<em>P</em> &lt; 0.05) while the pharmacokinetic profiles of CAL-G, FOR-G, APC-G, AS IV and CAG stayed almost unchanged (<em>P</em> &gt; 0.05). Moreover, the elimination half-time (t_1/2) values of CAL, FOR and APC were significantly elevated, and the clearance rate/bioavailability (CL_z/F) for CAL and FOR was reduced (<em>P</em> &lt; 0.05).</p></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><p>SR has the potential to modulate the ADME process of five out of the eight isoflavonoids (CAL, FOR, APC, AIF-G and FOR-GN, except CAL-G, FOR-G and APC-G) originating from AR. This interaction is especially likely to affect the hepatic and intestinal drug disposition of these isoflavonoids, thereby extending the duration of their pharmacological effects, which may subsequently impact the therapeutic efficacy of AR.</p></div>","PeriodicalId":15761,"journal":{"name":"Journal of ethnopharmacology","volume":null,"pages":null},"PeriodicalIF":4.8,"publicationDate":"2024-09-12","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142240958","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Si-Ni-San ameliorates cholestatic liver injury by favoring P. goldsteinii colonization","authors":"","doi":"10.1016/j.jep.2024.118804","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jep.2024.118804","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Ethnopharmacological relevance</h3><p>Current treatment options for cholestatic liver diseases are limited, and addressing impaired intestinal barrier has emerged as a promising therapeutic approach. Si-Ni-San (SNS) is a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) formula commonly utilized in the management of chronic liver diseases. Our previous studies have indicated that SNS effectively enhanced intestinal barrier function through the modulation of gut microbiota.</p></div><div><h3>Aim of the study</h3><p>This study aims to verify the therapeutic effects of SNS on cholestatic liver injury, focusing on elucidating the underlying mechanism involving the gut-liver axis.</p></div><div><h3>Materials and methods</h3><p>The 16s RNA gene sequencing, non-targeted metabolomics were used to investigate the effects of SNS on the gut microbiota dysbiosis. Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) was conducted to identify potential beneficial probiotics underlying the therapeutic effects of SNS.</p></div><div><h3>Results</h3><p>Our results demonstrated that SNS significantly ameliorated cholestatic liver injury induced by partial bile duct ligation (pBDL). Additionally, SNS effectively suppressed cholestasis-induced inflammation and barrier dysfunction in both the small intestine and colon. While SNS did not impact the intestinal FXR-FGF15-hepatic CYP7A1 axis, it notably improved gut microbiota dysbiosis and modulated the profile of microbial metabolites, including beneficial secondary bile acids and tryptophan derivatives. Furthermore, gut microbiota depletion experiments and FMT confirmed that the therapeutic benefits of SNS in cholestatic liver disease are dependent on gut microbiota modulation, particularly through the promotion of the growth of potential probiotic <em>P. goldsteinii</em>. Moreover, a synergistic improvement in cholestatic liver injury was observed with the co-administration of <em>P. goldsteinii</em> and SNS.</p></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><p>Our study underscores that SNS effectively alleviates cholestatic liver injury by addressing gut microbiota dysbiosis and enhancing intestinal barrier function, supporting its rational clinical utilization. Furthermore, we highlight <em>P. goldsteinii</em> as a promising probiotic candidate for the management of cholestatic liver diseases.</p></div>","PeriodicalId":15761,"journal":{"name":"Journal of ethnopharmacology","volume":null,"pages":null},"PeriodicalIF":4.8,"publicationDate":"2024-09-11","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142233793","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}