Journal of ethnopharmacology最新文献

{"title":"Exploring the promising potential of alcohol extract from the aerial part of dill in ameliorating DSS-induced ulcerative colitis in mice.","authors":"Chen-Huan Qiao, Tian-Tian Liu, Yao-Yao Li, Shi-Dan Wang, Yu-Xin Chen","doi":"10.1016/j.jep.2024.119237","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jep.2024.119237","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Ethnopharmacological relevance: </strong>Dill (Anethum graveolens L.) is a typical Uyghur medicine. It is traditionally used to treat sticky and stagnant dampness, hiccups and food stagnation, intestinal obstruction, and anorectal diseases.</p><p><strong>Study objective: </strong>Our study is designed to investigate the potential of alcohol extract from the aerial part of dill in ameliorating ulcerative colitis induced by Dextran Sulfate Sodium Salt (DSS) in mice.</p><p><strong>Materials and methods: </strong>In this paper, the chemical composition of the aerial part of dill was speculated from the data obtained by LC-MS and determined by comparing with 10 standards through HPLC. The aerial part of fresh dill was dried, crushed, sieved, and then extracted with 70% ethanol to obtain DE. The lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced RAW264.7 cells were used to test the anti-inflammatory activity of DE in vitro. The impact of DE on UC was also studied in vivo. UC was induced by drinking 2.5% DSS to C57BL/6 mice for 6 days. The positive control group received 5-aminosalicylic acid (5-ASA) by gavage, and the low and high-dose treatment groups were respectively given 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg of DE by gavage daily for 7 days from the first day.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>DE significantly reduces the disease activity index (DAI) and colon histopathological damage. DE can also alleviate oxidative stress and inflammation in UC mice by reducing IL-6, IL-1β, MDA, and MPO levels and increasing CAT and GSH levels in colonic tissues. DE can protect the integrity of the colonic mucosal barrier by reducing damage to goblet cells, increasing the levels of mucin MUC2, and regulating the expression of tight junction proteins such as ZO-1, Occludin, Claudin-1, and Claudin-2. In addition, DE improves the ratio of beneficial and harmful bacteria, thus further alleviating the imbalance of intestinal flora.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>DE has anti-inflammatory activity in vitro and an ameliorative effect on DSS-induced UC in mice by alleviating oxidative stress and inflammation, protecting the integrity of the intestinal barrier, and regulating intestinal flora.</p>","PeriodicalId":15761,"journal":{"name":"Journal of ethnopharmacology","volume":" ","pages":"119237"},"PeriodicalIF":4.8,"publicationDate":"2024-12-10","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142818266","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":"Investigating the therapeutic effects and potential mechanisms of Zuojin Pill in the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease.","authors":"Guoliang Cui, Manli Wang, Zhiting Liu, Cheng Chang, Yuanyuan Wu, Xiaoman Li, Zhiguang Sun","doi":"10.1016/j.jep.2024.119230","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jep.2024.119230","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Ethnopharmacological relevance: </strong>Zuojin Pill (ZJP), a traditional Chinese medicinal formula, is widely recognized for its diverse pharmacological properties in the management of gastrointestinal disorders. However, the precise mechanisms underlying its therapeutic effects in gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) remain inadequately understood.</p><p><strong>Aim of the study: </strong>This study aims to investigate the therapeutic effects of ZJP in GERD and to elucidate the molecular mechanisms involved.</p><p><strong>Materials and methods: </strong>The chemical composition of ZJP was characterized using HPLC-Q-Exactive-MS. A rat model of GERD was established through esophagogastric anastomosis, and three different doses of ZJP were administered. Histological changes were assessed via hematoxylin-eosin (H&E) staining, while pro-inflammatory cytokines were quantified to evaluate the anti-inflammatory effects of ZJP. Network pharmacology combined with bioinformatics analysis was employed to predict potential therapeutic targets and signaling pathways of ZJP in GERD. Validation of the mechanisms was conducted through Western blotting, immunofluorescence (IF), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and immunohistochemistry (IHC).</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>The results demonstrated that ZJP effectively alleviated pathological alterations and reduced pro-inflammatory cytokine levels in esophageal tissues of GERD rats. Western blotting and IF analysis of E-cadherin and claudin-1 confirmed that ZJP enhanced the integrity of the esophageal mucosal barrier. TEM imaging revealed that ZJP restored intercellular space (DIS), increased desmosome density, thereby protecting esophageal tissues from the detrimental effects of GERD. Furthermore, ZJP modulated macrophage polarization in the GERD rat model. Mechanistic investigations indicated that ZJP exerted its therapeutic effects by inhibiting MAPK/NF-κB signaling pathway activation and downregulating the expression of prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase 2 (PTGS2) and matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP2), consistent with predictions from network pharmacology analysis.</p><p><strong>Conclusions: </strong>This study provides comprehensive evidence for the therapeutic efficacy of ZJP in GERD, acting through modulation of inflammation, mucosal barrier integrity, and macrophage polarization. Additionally, ZJP downregulated PTGS2 and MMP2 expression and suppressed the activation of MAPK/NF-κB signaling pathways, underscoring its potential as a therapeutic intervention for GERD.</p>","PeriodicalId":15761,"journal":{"name":"Journal of ethnopharmacology","volume":" ","pages":"119230"},"PeriodicalIF":4.8,"publicationDate":"2024-12-09","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142813293","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":"Carob leaves: Phytochemistry, antioxidant properties, vasorelaxant effect and mechanism of action.","authors":"Widad Dahmani, Zachée Louis Evariste Akissi, Nabia Elaouni, Nour Elhouda Bouanani, Hassane Mekhfi, Mohamed Bnouham, Abdelkhaleq Legssyer, Sevser Sahpaz, Abderrahim Ziyyat","doi":"10.1016/j.jep.2024.119226","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jep.2024.119226","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Ethnopharmacological relevance: </strong>Ceratonia siliqua L., is a species of significant nutritional and industrial interest with extensive traditional uses. This fabaceae is renowned for its medicinal properties, including the treatment of high blood pressure. Due to its chemical composition, carob exhibits several valuable therapeutic functions such as antioxidant, antidiarrheal, antidiabetic, and antibacterial actions.</p><p><strong>Aim of the review: </strong>This study investigates the chemical composition of Ceratonia siliqua L. leaves aqueous extract (CsAE) and explores the vasorelaxant effect and its underlying mechanisms. Acute toxicity and antioxidant activity of CsAE were also examined.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>The phytochemical profile was elucidated using TLC and UHPLC-MS. The vasorelaxant effect and mechanisms were studied on thoracic aortic rings from normotensive rats, using various antagonists. Acute toxicity was assessed by orally administering the extract to mice. Antioxidant activity was evaluated using β-carotene bleaching and DPPH.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>TLC analysis of CsAE reveals flavonoids and hydrolysable tannins. Gallic acid, myricitrin, quercitrin as well as galloylglucopyranoside derivatives were identified by UHPLC-MS. CsAE relaxed phenylephrine-precontracted aorta in a concentration-dependent manner. This response was reduced when the aorta was denuded or pretreated with L-NAME, hydroxocobalamin, ODQ, 4-AP, TEA, calmidazolium chloride, and thapsigargin. CsAE showed significant antioxidant activity with no observed toxicity in the experimental animals.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>CsAE has a significant vasodilatory effect, mediated through the CaM/eNOS/sGC pathway, activation of Kc_a and K_v, and intracellular calcium mobilization into SERCA. It also exhibits strong antioxidant activity, with no observed toxicity in the experimental animals. These findings represent the first evidence of the vasorelaxant effect of Ceratonia siliqua L. leaves from Eastern Morocco.</p>","PeriodicalId":15761,"journal":{"name":"Journal of ethnopharmacology","volume":" ","pages":"119226"},"PeriodicalIF":4.8,"publicationDate":"2024-12-09","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142801075","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":"Discovering the Q-marker of scutellaria baicalensis against viral pneumonia integrated chemical profile identification, pharmacokinetic, metabolomics and network pharmacology.","authors":"Xiaoyan Wang, Yujun Xie, Alamusi Bayoude, Boli Zhang, Boyang Yu","doi":"10.1016/j.jep.2024.119232","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jep.2024.119232","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Ethnopharmacological relevance: </strong>Scutellaria baicalensis (SR), an ancient antiviral herbal medicine, is widely used in treating viral pneumonia and its active constituents, baicalin and baicalein, have been reported to have antiviral activity.</p><p><strong>Aim of the study: </strong>However, reports on Q-markers of SR for antiviral pneumonia are still scarce. This study aims to screen for Q-markers using a comprehensive strategy that integrates identification of chemical profiles, in vivo absorption, metabolic regulation and predicted target.</p><p><strong>Materials and methods: </strong>First, the markers were screened by chemical profile identification and pharmacokinetics using HPLC-MS/MS. Then, the therapeutic effects and differential metabolites of SR on viral pneumonia rats were evaluated by HE staining, assessment of inflammation levels and metabolomics analysis. Finally, the mechanisms of action between Q-markers and metabolites were exploited based on network pharmacology.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>A total of 139 compounds were identified in SR, of which 35 and 41 were found in rat plasma and urine, respectively. Pharmacokinetic screening identified baicalin, baicalein, wogonin, wogonoside and oroxylin A as potential markers of SR. Furthermore, SR significantly improved interstitial and alveolar oedema, hemorrhage and alveolar collapse after modelling, while reducing the expression of inflammatory factors. Metabolomics revealed that SR significantly regulated the expression of 37 metabolites, mainly involving phenylalanine, tyrosine and tryptophan biosynthesis pathways. Network pharmacology showed that these five biomarkers can regulate the expression of metabolites through the key target SRC, ESR1, HSP90AA1, EGFR, thereby exerting antiviral effects against pneumonia. The study results suggest that baicalin, baicalein, wogonin, wogonoside and oroxylin A serve as primary Q-markers of SR in the treatment of viral pneumonia.</p>","PeriodicalId":15761,"journal":{"name":"Journal of ethnopharmacology","volume":" ","pages":"119232"},"PeriodicalIF":4.8,"publicationDate":"2024-12-09","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142813290","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":"Nephroprotective and diuretic effect of Alternanthera brasiliana (L.) Kuntze leaf extract; acute and sub-acute toxicity assessment.","authors":"Muhammad Hassan Bilal, Iram Bibi","doi":"10.1016/j.jep.2024.119225","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jep.2024.119225","url":null,"abstract":"&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Ethnopharmacological relevance: &lt;/strong&gt;Alternanthera brasiliana (L.) Kuntze of the family Amaranthaceae has been extensively used in traditional medicinal practices in Brazil and India for its reputed efficacy in promoting diuresis, as well as treating wounds, inflammation, postnatal symptoms, diarrhea, and cough. Its selection for this study was driven not only by its ethnomedicinal significance but also by its rich phytochemical composition, including bioactive compounds such as flavonoids, saponins, and alkaloids, which are known to exhibit nephroprotective and diuretic effects. Additionally, while many species from the Amaranthaceae family have demonstrated similar therapeutic properties, A. brasiliana remains underexplored in this context. Therefore, this research aimed to scientifically evaluate its potential nephroprotective and diuretic activities, providing a pharmacological basis for its traditional uses.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Aim of study: &lt;/strong&gt;This experiment was designed to determine nephroprotective effect against cisplatin-induced kidney injury and diuretic effect of Alternanthera brasiliana (L.) in rats. This study also aimed to evaluate the toxicity of plant's extract by performing acute and sub-acute toxicity trials.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Material and methods: &lt;/strong&gt;In current study, the nephroprotective effect of aqueous-ethanol extract of A. brasiliana was evaluated after induction of kidney injury with cisplatin. Extract was given in three doses as 75 mg/kg, 150 mg/kg and 300 mg/kg. A diuretic activity was also performed by comparing results with control and standard (furosemide). Extract was given in three doses as 75 mg/kg, 150 mg/kg and 300 mg/kg. A 14 day trial for acute toxicity assessment was performed at doses 2000 mg/kg and 3000 mg/kg, whereas a 28 day trial for sub-acute toxicity assessment was performed at doses 250 mg/kg, 500 mg/kg and 1000 mg/kg. The biological active ingredients were identified and determined using HPLC technique.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Results: &lt;/strong&gt;The aqueous-ethanol extract of A. brasiliana (ABAE) safeguarded the rats from toxic effects of cisplatin. This extract also enhanced urine output. The protective effect of ABAE increased with increasing dose and produced maximum nephroprotective effect and diuresis at a dose 300 mg/kg. The outcomes from acute toxicity trials suggested that LD&lt;sub&gt;50&lt;/sub&gt; lied beyond 3000 mg/kg, and no antagonizing effects occurred in sub-acute toxicity trials at doses 250 mg/kg, 500 mg/kg and 1000 mg/kg. ABAE posed no toxicities on kidney, liver, and heart tissues as evident from histopathological, hematological, and serum biochemical analysis. HPLC-DAD analysis of ABAE indicated the presence of betanin, kaempherol, gallic acid, p-coumaric acid and oxalic acid.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Conclusions: &lt;/strong&gt;These results demonstrate an abundant supply of bioactive chemicals found in A. brasiliana (L.) extracts, which should be taken into account to improve renal functions with ","PeriodicalId":15761,"journal":{"name":"Journal of ethnopharmacology","volume":" ","pages":"119225"},"PeriodicalIF":4.8,"publicationDate":"2024-12-09","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142801078","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":"How can traditional Chinese medicine enhance the efficacy of antibiotics in the treatment of MRSA-infected pneumonia: An experimental study on the combination of Reyanning mixture (RYN) and linezolid.","authors":"Min-Hang Dou, Jia-Yi Huang, Peng-Yue Li, Wan-Ling Chen, Xin-Ran Wang, Tian-Zi Yang, Xiao-Yu Fan, Xin-Yu Zhang, Yang Lu, Jie Bai, Shou-Ying Du","doi":"10.1016/j.jep.2024.119221","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jep.2024.119221","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Ethnopharmacological relevance: </strong>The Reyanning Mixture (RYN) is a Chinese patent medicine widely used in the treatment of respiratory inflammatory diseases in China and has potential in the treatment of bacteria-infected pneumonia.</p><p><strong>Aim of the study: </strong>The present study aimed to demonstrate the therapeutic potential of RYN in combination with linezolid for the treatment of MRSA-infected pneumonia and to explore the mechanisms of action and active components.</p><p><strong>Materials and methods: </strong>The pharmacodynamics of RYN alone and in combination with linezolid was investigated in a rat model of MRSA-induced pneumonia. Transcriptomics, ELISA, Western blot and qRT-PCR were used to explore and verify the pharmacological mechanism of the anti-inflammatory effect of RYN. UPLC-MS and molecular docking were used to explore the anti-inflammatory components of RYN for the treatment of MRSA-infected pneumonia.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>In vivo, RYN reduced lung injury and inflammation in rats with pneumonia. In particular, the combination of RYN and linezolid enhanced the therapeutic effect compared to that of either treatment alone. Further research suggests that the synergistic therapeutic effect of the combination may be related to the inhibition of the inflammatory response by RYN and the enhancement of linezolid inhibition and clearance of MRSA in lung tissues by RYN. RYN plays an anti-inflammatory role in MRSA-infected pneumonia by inhibiting the TLR2/NF-κB/NLRP3 pathway, with 7 active components that may play a dominant role.</p><p><strong>Conclusions: </strong>These results indicate that RYN may serve as an adjuvant drug to antibiotics for the treatment of MRSA-associated pneumonia. Exploration of its mechanisms and active components is conducive to the clinical application and quality improvement of RYN. More importantly, this study showed that the synergistic therapeutic effect of the combination of traditional Chinese medicine and antibiotics may be a valuable therapeutic strategy.</p>","PeriodicalId":15761,"journal":{"name":"Journal of ethnopharmacology","volume":" ","pages":"119221"},"PeriodicalIF":4.8,"publicationDate":"2024-12-09","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142801076","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":"Osteoking inhibits apoptosis of BMSCs in osteoporotic rats via PI3K/AKT signaling pathway.","authors":"Guijiang Huang, Wenjie Yin, Xin Zhao, Muli Xu, Peijin Wang, Rong Li, Li Zhou, Wei Tang, Jianlin Jiao","doi":"10.1016/j.jep.2024.118961","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jep.2024.118961","url":null,"abstract":"&lt;p&gt;&lt;p&gt;In China, Osteoking is a commonly used treatment and preventive measure for osteoporosis. The pathophysiology of osteoporosis is closely associated with apoptosis; however, it remains unclear whether the role of Osteoking in promoting bone formation is linked to apoptosis.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Aim of study: &lt;/strong&gt;This study aims to investigate whether Osteoking inhibits apoptosis of BMSCs in osteoporotic rats via the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway and to conduct a detailed exploration of this mechanism. The goal is to provide a theoretical basis for the clinical application of Osteoking in osteoporosis treatment.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Methods: &lt;/strong&gt;A rat model of osteoporosis was established through bilateral ovariectomy (OVX), followed by treatment with Osteoking. After ten weeks of therapy, BMD was evaluated. The biomechanics of the left tibia were measured, the left femur was sequenced, and the right tibia was stained using histomorphometric and Masson's staining methods. Peripheral serum was collected to measure bone-related markers, including E2, PINP, and CTX. RNA-Seq results were verified using the remaining bone samples. Comparative analysis demonstrated the efficacy of Osteoking in treating osteoporosis and provided preliminary insights into the underlying mechanisms. Primary BMSCs were cultured using bone marrow apposition. CCK8 assays were conducted to screen the intervention conditions of Osteoking and LY294002. Various concentrations of Osteoking-containing serum and LY294002 were tested separately to determine the optimal intervention concentration for drug delivery. The impact of Osteoking on lipid formation was also evaluated. Following treatment of BMSCs from OVX rats with Sham serum, OVX serum, OVX+LY294002 serum, and Osteoking+LY294002 serum, the expression of PI3K/AKT/mTOR, osteogenesis-related regulatory factors, and apoptosis-related regulatory factors was assessed. Flow cytometry was employed to evaluate apoptosis in BMSCs.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Results: &lt;/strong&gt;Osteoking significantly improved whole-body BMD and bone biomechanical indices in OVX rats. It also significantly elevated the serum levels of E2 and PINP while reducing the level of CTX, which significantly improved bone microstructure and promoted new bone formation. RNA-seq analysis indicated that the therapeutic mechanism involved the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. Osteoking increased the expression of RUNX2 and decreased the expression of PPAR-γ, a marker of lipogenesis, in OVX rats. Extraction of BMSCs for subsequent studies revealed a significant reduction in proliferation and osteogenic differentiation, along with an increase in lipogenic differentiation, in the OVX group. Osteoking treatment inhibited the expression of PPAR-γ and increased the expression of RUNX2 in BMSCs. Additionally, Osteoking reversed the LY294002-mediated inhibition of PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway activation, increased the expression of the apoptosis-protecting protein Bcl2, and decreased the expre","PeriodicalId":15761,"journal":{"name":"Journal of ethnopharmacology","volume":" ","pages":"118961"},"PeriodicalIF":4.8,"publicationDate":"2024-12-07","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142801080","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":"Huashi baidu granule alleviates inflammation and lung edema by suppressing the NLRP3/caspase-1/GSDMD-N pathway and promoting fluid clearance in a porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) model.","authors":"Feng-Lin Zhang, Yi-Lin Chen, Zhen-Ye Luo, Ze-Bu Song, Zhe Chen, Jia-Xuan Zhang, Ze-Zhong Zheng, Xiao-Mei Tan","doi":"10.1016/j.jep.2024.119207","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jep.2024.119207","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Ethnopharmacological relevance: </strong>Huashi Baidu Granule (HSBDG), a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), is used for treating coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) is considered the \"COVID-19\" for swine. According to the TCM theory, \"dampness\" is the main pathogenic factor in COVID-19 and PRRS, and \"Huashi\" means that this formula is good at removing \"dampness\". Studies have demonstrated that HSBDG's effect in COVID-19; but the mechanism of removing \"dampness\" remains elusive.</p><p><strong>Aim of the study: </strong>We aimed to assess the effect of HSBDG on PRRS, and elucidate its potential mechanism in removing \"dampness\".</p><p><strong>Materials and methods: </strong>We established a PRRS-virus (PRRSV)-infected Marc-145 cells model, and performed qRT-PCR, Western blot analysis, and indirect immunofluorescence assay to examine the anti-PRRSV effects of HSBDG in vitro. PRRSV-infected pig model was established and used to investigate HSBDG's effect in PRRS and explore underlying mechanisms in removing \"dampness\" using ELISA and immunohistochemistry assay methods.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>HSBDG exhibited anti-PRRSV activity and suppressed the viral replication and release phases. HSBDG treatment alleviated PRRS, lowered rectal temperature, reduced histopathological changes and viral load in lung tissues, and ameliorated organ lesions. Moreover, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, and TNF-α expressions were decreased in lung tissues. Mechanistically, HSBDG inhibited the NLRP3/Caspase-1/GSDMD-N pathway to reduce the inflammatory response and upregulated AQP1, AQP5, α-ENaC, and Na-K-ATPase expressions to promote lung fluid clearance.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>HSBDG exerted anti-PRRSV effects and could attenuate PRRS. HSBDG potentially removes \"dampness\" by attenuating inflammation by suppressing the NLRP3/Caspase-1/GSDMD-N pathway and inhibiting pulmonary edema by upregulating the expression of AQP1, AQP5, α-ENaC, and Na-K-ATPase.</p>","PeriodicalId":15761,"journal":{"name":"Journal of ethnopharmacology","volume":" ","pages":"119207"},"PeriodicalIF":4.8,"publicationDate":"2024-12-07","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142801077","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":"Qifu yixin prescription ameliorates cardiac fibrosis by activating soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC) in heart failure.","authors":"Zhaohui Xu, Jiahui Yang, Yinqin Hu, Qiqi Wan, Xinting Wang, Cheng Lu, Yongming Liu","doi":"10.1016/j.jep.2024.119229","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jep.2024.119229","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Ethnopharmacological relevance: </strong>Qifu yixin prescription (QYP), an effective traditional Chinese medicine formula, has been utilized in the clinical treatment of cardiovascular diseases for over two decades and has been granted a national invention patent in China. It has demonstrated the ability to improve clinical symptoms in patients with heart failure. However, its precise effects and underlying molecular mechanisms remain unclear.</p><p><strong>Aim of the study: </strong>To evaluate the efficacy of QYP in treating HF and the underlying mechanisms.</p><p><strong>Materials and methods: </strong>The heart failure (HF) model in mice was established using transverse aortic constriction (TAC), while neonatal rat cardiac fibroblasts (CFs) were utilized for in vitro experiments. The bioactive compounds in QYP were identified through high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Cardiac hypertrophy, function, and fibrosis were assessed using morphological observations, echocardiography, and histomorphometric analyses. To investigate the underlying mechanisms by which QYP alleviates HF, transcriptomic analysis was conducted, and network pharmacology was employed to explore its potential mechanisms of action. Mechanistically, the expression levels of sGC, PKG, ERK, and p-ERK were analyzed using western blotting, immunohistochemistry, and immunofluorescence. Molecular docking was conducted to assess the binding affinity of the compounds of QYP to sGC. Additionally, the effects of QYP on CFs were investigated through cell-based assays.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>We identified 33 bioactive compounds in QYP. Histomorphometric and transcriptomic analyses indicated that QYP alleviates cardiac fibrosis in HF. Network pharmacological analysis suggested that the sGC/cGMP/PKG and MAPK pathways are key mechanisms underlying the effects of QYP on cardiac fibrosis. The findings confirmed that QYP activates sGC, leading to the inhibition of ERK phosphorylation. Molecular docking revealed that the compounds of QYP exhibit strong binding affinity to sGC. Additionally, cell-based experiments demonstrated that QYP effectively suppresses CFs activation by stimulating sGC.</p><p><strong>Conclusions: </strong>These results indicate QYP improves cardiac fibrosis in HF by activating sGC to inhibit ERK phosphorylation. We propose that QYP is a potential treatment for HF with anti-fibrotic properties.</p>","PeriodicalId":15761,"journal":{"name":"Journal of ethnopharmacology","volume":" ","pages":"119229"},"PeriodicalIF":4.8,"publicationDate":"2024-12-07","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142801081","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":"Evaluation of the sedative-hypnotic effects of Menyanthes trifoliata L. extract in mice.","authors":"Ranran Gong, Haizhou Jiang, Jin Hu, Guohua Liu, Lingxiao Gao, Qingwen Zhang, Yutong Wei, Changan Geng, Shanshan Wei","doi":"10.1016/j.jep.2024.119227","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jep.2024.119227","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Ethnopharmacological relevance: </strong>Insomnia is a pervasive and prominent problem worldwide, afflicting approximately one-third of the population and profoundly affecting patients' quality of life. Efficient and safe sedative-hypnotic medications are required. Menyanthes trifoliata L. (Mt), a sleeping herb in China, is used as a hypnotic remedy in ethnomedicines; however, there are few studies on this herb.</p><p><strong>Aim of the study: </strong>We systematically evaluated the potential of Mt as a sedative-hypnotic candidate.</p><p><strong>Materials and methods: </strong>The chemical constituents of the Mt extract were analyzed by lLiquid chromatography with photodiode array detection and mass spectrometry (LC-PDA-MS). The sedative-hypnotic effects of Mt extract (0.5, 2, and 4 g/kg) were investigated using the pentobarbital-induced sleep test (PIST), the caffeine-induced insomnia model (CIIM), and the open field test (OFT). Furthermore, the effect of Mt on sleep architecture was ‌investigated using electroencephalography/electromyography (EEG/EMG). The safety of the Mt extract was evaluated using the maximum tolerated dose method.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Fifteen phenolic compounds were identified based on their UV absorption and MS fragmentation using LC-PDA-MS analysis. In the CIIM, PIST, and OFT, Mt extract exhibited a dose-dependent reduction in sleep latency, an extension of total sleep duration, and a decrease in locomotor activity. Moreover, it increased the duration of non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep and reduced wakefulness after one day's administration, according to EEG/EMG. Additionally, no signs of toxicity were observed at a dose of 30 g/kg (equivalent to 316.46 g/kg of crude drugs).</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>This study supports the potential medicinal use of Mt extract for sleep promotion.</p>","PeriodicalId":15761,"journal":{"name":"Journal of ethnopharmacology","volume":" ","pages":"119227"},"PeriodicalIF":4.8,"publicationDate":"2024-12-06","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142794743","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}