Pub Date : 2026-03-01Epub Date: 2026-02-12DOI: 10.1016/j.prmcm.2026.100776
Ming-ming He, Chun-yan Lv, Xiu-min Wang, Yuan Zhong, Li Liu
Introduction
YiShen QuZhuo Decoction (YSQZD) is a clinically proven traditional Chinese medicine formula for chronic kidney disease (CKD), but its underlying mechanism lacks systematic investigation. CKD is a prevalent renal disorder with limited effective treatments, and traditional herbal medicines are gaining attention as safer alternatives. Renal tubular injury is a key pathological change in CKD, closely linked to renal interstitial fibrosis.
Methods
Network pharmacology was used to predict active ingredients, key targets, and potential mechanisms of YSQZD against CKD. BATMAN-TCM, GeneCards, STRING, and DAVID databases were employed for target screening, PPI network construction, and GO/KEGG enrichment analysis. TGF-β1-induced HK-2 cell injury model was used for in vitro validation. MTT assay, immunofluorescence staining, and GC-MS-based amino acid metabolomics were performed to evaluate the efficacy and mechanism of YSQZD.
Conclusion
Network pharmacology identified 19 active ingredients (score >100, based on BATMAN-TCM default high-confidence threshold and previous literature support) and 57 common targets of YSQZD and CKD. GO/KEGG analysis revealed 26 signaling pathways, including 5 amino acid metabolism-related pathways (P<0.05). In vitro experiments (n=6 biological replicates per group) showed YSQZD dose-dependently alleviated TGF-β1-induced EMT in HK-2 cells. Western blot confirmed upregulated E-cadherin and downregulated α-SMA. Amino acid metabolomics indicated YSQZD significantly regulated aspartic acid, glutamine, and leucine levels (P < 0.05).
Discussion
YSQZD exerts anti-CKD effects through multi-component, multi-target, and multi-pathway mechanisms. It regulates amino acid metabolism (especially aspartic acid) and inhibits EMT, which may be associated with SLC family transporters. The findings provide a scientific basis for YSQZD's clinical application, but further in vivo and clinical studies are needed to confirm its efficacy.
{"title":"Yishen Quzhuo decoction improve chronic kidney disease by regulating amino acid metabolism: An experimental validation guided by network pharmacology","authors":"Ming-ming He, Chun-yan Lv, Xiu-min Wang, Yuan Zhong, Li Liu","doi":"10.1016/j.prmcm.2026.100776","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.prmcm.2026.100776","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Introduction</h3><div>YiShen QuZhuo Decoction (YSQZD) is a clinically proven traditional Chinese medicine formula for chronic kidney disease (CKD), but its underlying mechanism lacks systematic investigation. CKD is a prevalent renal disorder with limited effective treatments, and traditional herbal medicines are gaining attention as safer alternatives. Renal tubular injury is a key pathological change in CKD, closely linked to renal interstitial fibrosis.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>Network pharmacology was used to predict active ingredients, key targets, and potential mechanisms of YSQZD against CKD. BATMAN-TCM, GeneCards, STRING, and DAVID databases were employed for target screening, PPI network construction, and GO/KEGG enrichment analysis. TGF-β1-induced HK-2 cell injury model was used for in vitro validation. MTT assay, immunofluorescence staining, and GC-MS-based amino acid metabolomics were performed to evaluate the efficacy and mechanism of YSQZD.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>Network pharmacology identified 19 active ingredients (score >100, based on BATMAN-TCM default high-confidence threshold and previous literature support) and 57 common targets of YSQZD and CKD. GO/KEGG analysis revealed 26 signaling pathways, including 5 amino acid metabolism-related pathways (P<0.05). In vitro experiments (n=6 biological replicates per group) showed YSQZD dose-dependently alleviated TGF-β1-induced EMT in HK-2 cells. Western blot confirmed upregulated E-cadherin and downregulated α-SMA. Amino acid metabolomics indicated YSQZD significantly regulated aspartic acid, glutamine, and leucine levels (<em>P</em> < 0.05).</div></div><div><h3>Discussion</h3><div>YSQZD exerts anti-CKD effects through multi-component, multi-target, and multi-pathway mechanisms. It regulates amino acid metabolism (especially aspartic acid) and inhibits EMT, which may be associated with SLC family transporters. The findings provide a scientific basis for YSQZD's clinical application, but further in vivo and clinical studies are needed to confirm its efficacy.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":101013,"journal":{"name":"Pharmacological Research - Modern Chinese Medicine","volume":"18 ","pages":"Article 100776"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-03-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147419812","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-03-01Epub Date: 2026-02-10DOI: 10.1016/j.prmcm.2026.100779
Tung-Leong Fong , Guang Chen , Chen Shen , Shichen Zhou , Yunqing Xun , Yue Chen , Cheng Zhang , Ning Wang , Chak Sing Lau , Yibin Feng
<div><h3>Introduction</h3><div><strong>:</strong> Steroid-induced adverse reactions present significant challenges in the treatment of autoimmune diseases. Chinese herbal medicine, especially yin-nourishing formulations, shows potential for managing these adverse reactions. The objective of this review is to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of various types of Chinese herbal medicine, including herbal formulations, extracts, and single compounds, in preventing and managing the adverse reactions caused by steroids in patients with autoimmune diseases.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div><strong>:</strong> We followed PRISMA guidelines to report this review. Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) which investigated the effectiveness and safety of Chinese herbal medicine, in any form and way of administration, on patients with steroid-induced adverse reactions, compared to any type of control, without language restrictions, were identified through electronic database searches. PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, Web of Science, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), and Wanfang Database were systematically searched. All databases were screened up to March 2025. Retrieved data were both qualitatively and quantitatively synthesized. Risk of bias was assessed with the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool 2 and the following domains were considered: randomization, deviations from intended interventions, missing outcome data, outcome measurement, and selection of reported results. Each outcome’s quality of evidence was determined using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) approach, considering the risk of bias, inconsistency, indirectness, imprecision, and publication bias.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div><strong>:</strong> A total of 18 studies with 1651 participants were included in this meta-analysis, of which 14 studies were rated as high risk of bias and 4 were rated as some concerns. All the evidence generated from this study was moderate or very low based on GRADE system. Compared with standard care alone, adding Chinese herbal medicine during the treatments for autoimmune diseases yielded a significant reduction in the incidence of gastrointestinal disturbance (RR = 0.59, 95% CI: 0.41–0.84), infection (RR = 0.49, 95% CI: 0.34–0.70), insomnia (RR = 0.41, 95% CI: 0.32–0.54), hyperglycemia (RR = 0.36, 95% CI: 0.19 to 0.68), Cushing syndrome (RR = 0.55, 95% CI: 0.41–0.75), psychiatric adverse reactions (RR = 0.55, 95% CI: 0.44–0.69), abnormal heat sensation (RR = 0.51, 95% CI: 0.39–0.68), dizziness with tinnitus (RR = 0.55, 95% CI: 0.32–0.93), and xerostomia (RR = 0.51, 95% CI: 0.33–0.77). Adding Chinese herbal medicine also effectively treats the adverse reactions, including dizziness and tinnitus, and xerostomia induced by steroid use.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div><strong>:</strong> Adding Chinese herbal medicine during the treatments among autoimmune diseases might not only prevent the occurrence o
{"title":"Effects of Chinese herbal medicine on reducing steroid-induced adverse reactions: A systematic review and meta-analysis from 1651 autoimmune disease patients in 18 randomized controlled trials","authors":"Tung-Leong Fong , Guang Chen , Chen Shen , Shichen Zhou , Yunqing Xun , Yue Chen , Cheng Zhang , Ning Wang , Chak Sing Lau , Yibin Feng","doi":"10.1016/j.prmcm.2026.100779","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.prmcm.2026.100779","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Introduction</h3><div><strong>:</strong> Steroid-induced adverse reactions present significant challenges in the treatment of autoimmune diseases. Chinese herbal medicine, especially yin-nourishing formulations, shows potential for managing these adverse reactions. The objective of this review is to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of various types of Chinese herbal medicine, including herbal formulations, extracts, and single compounds, in preventing and managing the adverse reactions caused by steroids in patients with autoimmune diseases.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div><strong>:</strong> We followed PRISMA guidelines to report this review. Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) which investigated the effectiveness and safety of Chinese herbal medicine, in any form and way of administration, on patients with steroid-induced adverse reactions, compared to any type of control, without language restrictions, were identified through electronic database searches. PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, Web of Science, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), and Wanfang Database were systematically searched. All databases were screened up to March 2025. Retrieved data were both qualitatively and quantitatively synthesized. Risk of bias was assessed with the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool 2 and the following domains were considered: randomization, deviations from intended interventions, missing outcome data, outcome measurement, and selection of reported results. Each outcome’s quality of evidence was determined using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) approach, considering the risk of bias, inconsistency, indirectness, imprecision, and publication bias.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div><strong>:</strong> A total of 18 studies with 1651 participants were included in this meta-analysis, of which 14 studies were rated as high risk of bias and 4 were rated as some concerns. All the evidence generated from this study was moderate or very low based on GRADE system. Compared with standard care alone, adding Chinese herbal medicine during the treatments for autoimmune diseases yielded a significant reduction in the incidence of gastrointestinal disturbance (RR = 0.59, 95% CI: 0.41–0.84), infection (RR = 0.49, 95% CI: 0.34–0.70), insomnia (RR = 0.41, 95% CI: 0.32–0.54), hyperglycemia (RR = 0.36, 95% CI: 0.19 to 0.68), Cushing syndrome (RR = 0.55, 95% CI: 0.41–0.75), psychiatric adverse reactions (RR = 0.55, 95% CI: 0.44–0.69), abnormal heat sensation (RR = 0.51, 95% CI: 0.39–0.68), dizziness with tinnitus (RR = 0.55, 95% CI: 0.32–0.93), and xerostomia (RR = 0.51, 95% CI: 0.33–0.77). Adding Chinese herbal medicine also effectively treats the adverse reactions, including dizziness and tinnitus, and xerostomia induced by steroid use.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div><strong>:</strong> Adding Chinese herbal medicine during the treatments among autoimmune diseases might not only prevent the occurrence o","PeriodicalId":101013,"journal":{"name":"Pharmacological Research - Modern Chinese Medicine","volume":"18 ","pages":"Article 100779"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-03-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147420158","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-03-01Epub Date: 2026-02-26DOI: 10.1016/j.prmcm.2026.100788
Shikha Dhiman, Priyanka Sharma, Jyoti Rana, Amit Kumar Sehgal
Introduction
Ficus racemosa L. (Jù guǒ róng) is a traditionally used medicinal plant in the management of various ailments, including diabetes, dysentery, bilious affections, diarrhea, etc. The present study aimed to comparatively evaluate the phytochemical constituents and biological activities of its leaf and root extracts.
Methods
Preliminary qualitative and quantitative analyses were performed to determine the presence and concentration of major secondary metabolites. Antioxidant potential was assessed using DPPH radical scavenging and reducing power assays. Antimicrobial activity was evaluated by the disk-diffusion method and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was determined by the resazurin-based microdilution technique. Enzyme inhibitory activity was assessed against alpha-amylase and urease enzymes.
Results
Phytochemical evaluation confirmed the presence of alkaloids, phenols, flavonoids, tannins, carbohydrates, etc. Quantitative estimation revealed higher polyphenolic content in the root extracts and GC–MS analysis identified various compounds, including lupeyl acetate, n- hexadecanoic acid, squalene, lupan-3-ol, acetate, lanosterol acetate, etc., which contribute to the biological activities of the plant. Antioxidant assays revealed comparatively lower IC50 and EC50 values for the methanolic root extract (15.54 and 330.40 µg/mL, respectively), correlating with its higher phenolic and flavonoid content. Antimicrobial screening indicated that root extracts exhibited broader-spectrum activity. Enzyme inhibition studies demonstrated significant alpha-amylase inhibitory activity, with the methanolic root extract exhibiting the strongest effect (IC50 = 0.128 mg/mL). Similarly, the highest urease inhibition was observed for the methanolic root extract (IC50 = 0.372 mg/mL), suggesting potential hypoglycemic and anti-urease effects.
Conclusion
The findings not only provide scientific validation for the traditional use of F. racemosa but also highlight its potential as a promising source of bioactive compounds for the development of novel antioxidant, antimicrobial and hypoglycemic therapeutics, warranting further isolation and characterization studies.
{"title":"GC-MS, quantitative phytochemical estimation and biological activities of the leaf and root extracts of Ficus racemosa L․","authors":"Shikha Dhiman, Priyanka Sharma, Jyoti Rana, Amit Kumar Sehgal","doi":"10.1016/j.prmcm.2026.100788","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.prmcm.2026.100788","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Introduction</h3><div><em>Ficus racemosa</em> L. (Jù guǒ róng) is a traditionally used medicinal plant in the management of various ailments, including diabetes, dysentery, bilious affections, diarrhea, etc. The present study aimed to comparatively evaluate the phytochemical constituents and biological activities of its leaf and root extracts.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>Preliminary qualitative and quantitative analyses were performed to determine the presence and concentration of major secondary metabolites. Antioxidant potential was assessed using DPPH radical scavenging and reducing power assays. Antimicrobial activity was evaluated by the disk-diffusion method and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was determined by the resazurin-based microdilution technique. Enzyme inhibitory activity was assessed against alpha-amylase and urease enzymes.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Phytochemical evaluation confirmed the presence of alkaloids, phenols, flavonoids, tannins, carbohydrates, etc. Quantitative estimation revealed higher polyphenolic content in the root extracts and GC–MS analysis identified various compounds, including lupeyl acetate, <em>n-</em> hexadecanoic acid, squalene, lupan-3-ol, acetate, lanosterol acetate, etc., which contribute to the biological activities of the plant. Antioxidant assays revealed comparatively lower IC<sub>50</sub> and EC<sub>50</sub> values for the methanolic root extract (15.54 and 330.40 µg/mL, respectively), correlating with its higher phenolic and flavonoid content. Antimicrobial screening indicated that root extracts exhibited broader-spectrum activity. Enzyme inhibition studies demonstrated significant alpha-amylase inhibitory activity, with the methanolic root extract exhibiting the strongest effect (IC<sub>50</sub> = 0.128 mg/mL). Similarly, the highest urease inhibition was observed for the methanolic root extract (IC<sub>50</sub> = 0.372 mg/mL), suggesting potential hypoglycemic and anti-urease effects.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>The findings not only provide scientific validation for the traditional use of <em>F. racemosa</em> but also highlight its potential as a promising source of bioactive compounds for the development of novel antioxidant, antimicrobial and hypoglycemic therapeutics, warranting further isolation and characterization studies.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":101013,"journal":{"name":"Pharmacological Research - Modern Chinese Medicine","volume":"18 ","pages":"Article 100788"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-03-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147421374","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-03-01Epub Date: 2026-01-09DOI: 10.1016/j.prmcm.2026.100758
Kim Sia Sng , Si Woei Goh , Yi Ker Wong , Jen Yann Chiu
Objective
To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) in the treatment of menopausal depression.
Methodology
PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, WanFang, Chongqing VIP, and SinoMed were searched. All RCTs were assessed for eligibility and data extraction, subsequently assessed on the quality with the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool. Meta-analysis was performed on RevMan Web on all included studies for the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAMD), Kupperman Menopausal Index (KMI), serum levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinising hormone (LH), oestradiol (E2), and adverse events.
Results
The review included 27 RCTs with 2540 participants. The quality of studies included was generally poor. Nevertheless, single use of CHM or in combination with conventional medicine significantly improved HAMD and KMI scores (p<0.0001). CHM appears to be able to complement conventional medicine in further reducing serum FSH and LH, while increasing E2 levels. Subgroup analysis revealed that 4, 6 and 8 weeks of CHM can significantly reduce HAMD score, except for 12 weeks with no significant difference; while capsules and decoction type of CHM can significantly reduce HAMD scores, unlike granules type of CHM. Adverse events were lesser reported in the group that uses CHM when compared to single use of conventional medicine.
Conclusion
CHM has its effectiveness in menopausal depression women when being used alone or may provide additional efficacies when used in combination with conventional medicine, as well as lesser side effects were reported whenever CHM is being used.
目的评价中药治疗绝经期抑郁症的有效性和安全性。方法检索pubmed、Embase、Cochrane Library、Web of Science、中国知网、万方、重庆维普、中国医学信息网。评估所有随机对照试验的合格性和数据提取，随后用Cochrane偏倚风险工具评估质量。在RevMan Web上对所有纳入的研究进行meta分析，包括汉密尔顿抑郁评定量表（HAMD）、Kupperman绝经指数（KMI）、血清促卵泡激素（FSH）、促黄体生成素（LH）、雌二醇（E2）水平和不良事件。结果纳入27项随机对照试验，受试者2540人。纳入的研究质量普遍较差。然而，单独使用中草药或与常规药物联合使用可显著改善HAMD和KMI评分（p<0.0001）。中草药似乎能够补充常规药物，进一步降低血清FSH和LH，同时增加E2水平。亚组分析显示，除12周差异不显著外，4、6、8周CHM均能显著降低HAMD评分；而中药胶囊型和煎剂型与颗粒型不同，均能显著降低HAMD评分。与单一使用常规药物相比，使用中草药的组报告的不良事件较少。结论中药对绝经期抑郁症患者单用或与常规药物合用均有一定疗效，且副作用较小。
{"title":"Chinese herbal medicine improves depressive symptoms and regulates hormonal levels in the treatment of menopausal depression: A systematic review and meta-analysis","authors":"Kim Sia Sng , Si Woei Goh , Yi Ker Wong , Jen Yann Chiu","doi":"10.1016/j.prmcm.2026.100758","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.prmcm.2026.100758","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Objective</h3><div>To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) in the treatment of menopausal depression.</div></div><div><h3>Methodology</h3><div>PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, WanFang, Chongqing VIP, and SinoMed were searched. All RCTs were assessed for eligibility and data extraction, subsequently assessed on the quality with the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool. Meta-analysis was performed on RevMan Web on all included studies for the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAMD), Kupperman Menopausal Index (KMI), serum levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinising hormone (LH), oestradiol (E2), and adverse events.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>The review included 27 RCTs with 2540 participants. The quality of studies included was generally poor. Nevertheless, single use of CHM or in combination with conventional medicine significantly improved HAMD and KMI scores (<em>p</em><0.0001). CHM appears to be able to complement conventional medicine in further reducing serum FSH and LH, while increasing E2 levels. Subgroup analysis revealed that 4, 6 and 8 weeks of CHM can significantly reduce HAMD score, except for 12 weeks with no significant difference; while capsules and decoction type of CHM can significantly reduce HAMD scores, unlike granules type of CHM. Adverse events were lesser reported in the group that uses CHM when compared to single use of conventional medicine.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>CHM has its effectiveness in menopausal depression women when being used alone or may provide additional efficacies when used in combination with conventional medicine, as well as lesser side effects were reported whenever CHM is being used.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":101013,"journal":{"name":"Pharmacological Research - Modern Chinese Medicine","volume":"18 ","pages":"Article 100758"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-03-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146038084","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
The aim of this study was to evaluate the anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antioxidant activities of Clerodendrum serratum extract (CSE), its silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), and PEGylated nanoparticles (PEG-AgNPs) using in vivo, and in silico approaches.
Material and methods
Acute and chronic inflammation were induced using carrageenan and FCA in wistar rats, respectively. Animals were treated with Clerodendrum serratum extract (CSE), AgNPs, or PEG-AgNPs, and evaluated for paw edema, inflammatory scores, body weight, hematological, biochemical, and histopathological parameters. Analgesic, antioxidant, cytokine (TNF-α, IL-6), and molecular docking analyses were performed to assess anti-inflammatory efficacy and mechanistic insights.
Result and Discussion
Analgesic evaluation using hot-plate and tail-flick assays demonstrated that at the highest doses, CSE at 400 mg/kg produced analgesic effects of 71 % and 67 %, AgNPs at 0.4 mg/kg achieved 83 % and 86 %, and PEG-AgNPs at 0.4 mg/kg exhibited the strongest activity with 86 % and 85 %, respectively, comparable to the standard drug diclofenac at 10 mg/kg, exhibiting 92 % and 89 % activity supporting their potent anti-nociceptive activity. Flow cytometry analysis revealed that both CSE and AgNP treatments dose-dependently reduced intracellular ROS levels, with PEG-AgNPs at 0.4 mg/kg exhibiting the most potent antioxidant effect, showing 35 % of ROS population. In vivo analysis of pro-inflammatory cytokines from serum of CSE, AgNPs, and PEG-AgNPs treated group demonstrated dose-dependently reduction of IL-6 and TNF-α. CSE at 400 mg/kg, AgNPs at 0.4 mg/kg, and PEG-AgNPs at 0.4 mg/kg exhibited the most significant inhibitory effects, with PEG-AgNPs demonstrating superior efficacy by reducing IL-6 to 64 pg/mL and TNF-α to 72 pg/mL. In silico analysis revealed strong binding interactions of CSE phytoconstituents with COX-1, COX-2, and 5-LOX, with the best docking score of -10.36, supporting their anti-inflammatory potential. The predicted ADME-toxicity analysis indicated high absorption, favorable pharmacokinetics, limited CNS penetration, and no hepatotoxicity or mutagenicity despite selective CYP inhibition.
Conclusion
PEGylated silver nanoparticles of Clerodendrum serratum extract demonstrated superior anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antioxidant activities compared to CSE and AgNPs, and the integration of in vivo, and in silico findings provides robust evidence suggesting PEG-AgNPs as a promising nanotherapeutic strategy for managing inflammation and related disorders.
{"title":"Harnessing Clerodendrum serratum and its Nanoformulations: A tri-modal evaluation for improved anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antioxidant activities","authors":"Pandey Priya Arun , Ritu Raj Patel , Kiran Rajendra Giri , Amrita Ghosh , Meenakshi Singh","doi":"10.1016/j.prmcm.2026.100778","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.prmcm.2026.100778","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Aim of the study</h3><div>The aim of this study was to evaluate the anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antioxidant activities of <em>Clerodendrum serratum</em> extract (CSE), its silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), and PEGylated nanoparticles (PEG-AgNPs) using <em>in vivo</em>, and <em>in silico</em> approaches.</div></div><div><h3>Material and methods</h3><div>Acute and chronic inflammation were induced using carrageenan and FCA in wistar rats, respectively. Animals were treated with <em>Clerodendrum serratum</em> extract (CSE), AgNPs, or PEG-AgNPs, and evaluated for paw edema, inflammatory scores, body weight, hematological, biochemical, and histopathological parameters. Analgesic, antioxidant, cytokine (TNF-α, IL-6), and molecular docking analyses were performed to assess anti-inflammatory efficacy and mechanistic insights.</div></div><div><h3>Result and Discussion</h3><div>Analgesic evaluation using hot-plate and tail-flick assays demonstrated that at the highest doses, CSE at 400 mg/kg produced analgesic effects of 71 % and 67 %, AgNPs at 0.4 mg/kg achieved 83 % and 86 %, and PEG-AgNPs at 0.4 mg/kg exhibited the strongest activity with 86 % and 85 %, respectively, comparable to the standard drug diclofenac at 10 mg/kg, exhibiting 92 % and 89 % activity supporting their potent anti-nociceptive activity. Flow cytometry analysis revealed that both CSE and AgNP treatments dose-dependently reduced intracellular ROS levels, with PEG-AgNPs at 0.4 mg/kg exhibiting the most potent antioxidant effect, showing 35 % of ROS population. <em>In vivo</em> analysis of pro-inflammatory cytokines from serum of CSE, AgNPs, and PEG-AgNPs treated group demonstrated dose-dependently reduction of IL-6 and TNF-α. CSE at 400 mg/kg, AgNPs at 0.4 mg/kg, and PEG-AgNPs at 0.4 mg/kg exhibited the most significant inhibitory effects, with PEG-AgNPs demonstrating superior efficacy by reducing IL-6 to 64 pg/mL and TNF-α to 72 pg/mL. <em>In silico</em> analysis revealed strong binding interactions of CSE phytoconstituents with COX-1, COX-2, and 5-LOX, with the best docking score of -10.36, supporting their anti-inflammatory potential. The predicted ADME-toxicity analysis indicated high absorption, favorable pharmacokinetics, limited CNS penetration, and no hepatotoxicity or mutagenicity despite selective CYP inhibition.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>PEGylated silver nanoparticles of <em>Clerodendrum serratum</em> extract demonstrated superior anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antioxidant activities compared to CSE and AgNPs, and the integration of <em>in vivo</em>, and <em>in silico</em> findings provides robust evidence suggesting PEG-AgNPs as a promising nanotherapeutic strategy for managing inflammation and related disorders.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":101013,"journal":{"name":"Pharmacological Research - Modern Chinese Medicine","volume":"18 ","pages":"Article 100778"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-03-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147419811","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-03-01Epub Date: 2026-02-11DOI: 10.1016/j.prmcm.2026.100775
Enjie Chen, Tong Wu
Introduction
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), encompassing ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease (CD), represents a growing global health challenge. This is particularly evident in China, where incidence rates have risen rapidly. Grounded in holistic principles, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) approaches IBD through syndrome differentiation, aiming to address its pathogenesis via multi-target mechanisms. This review integrates contemporary research with classical TCM theory to evaluate the potential of TCM in improving clinical outcomes for IBD. By synthesizing mechanistic insights, analyzing currently listed drugs, and outlining future development directions, it aims to provide a scientific foundation for key research priorities in this field.
Methods
A literature search was conducted for articles published up to March 20, 2025, across multiple databases, including Web of Science, PubMed, and Scopus. Search terms incorporated keywords related to traditional medicine ('traditional Chinese medicine', 'traditional herbal medicine', 'natural products') and the disease ('inflammatory bowel disease', 'ulcerative colitis', 'Crohn's disease', 'UC', 'CD'). The focus was on identifying research detailing the progress in TCM application for the prevention and treatment of IBD within a modern medical context.
Results
TCM demonstrates positive outcomes in the treatment of IBD. Its key pharmacological actions include anti-inflammatory effects, modulation of the gut microbiota, reinforcement of the intestinal barrier, immune regulation, antioxidant activity, and inhibition of ferroptosis. The analysis also highlights persistent challenges, such as standardizing syndrome differentiation and translating promising preclinical findings into personalized therapies.
Discussion
TCM has been widely studied and applied for IBD. However, a deeper elucidation of its mechanisms and the clinical relevance of existing animal models require further investigation. The primary task for future research is to address translational gaps. This necessitates conducting large, rigorously designed, patient-centered randomized controlled trials that utilize objective biological markers and clinical endpoints for the most promising candidate components. Furthermore, exploring individualized TCM formulas represents a crucial direction for optimizing IBD management.
炎症性肠病（IBD），包括溃疡性结肠炎（UC）和克罗恩病（CD），是一个日益严重的全球健康挑战。这在发病率迅速上升的中国尤其明显。基于整体原则，中医从辨证论治IBD，旨在通过多靶点机制解决IBD的发病机制。本文将当代研究与经典中医理论结合起来，评估中医在改善IBD临床预后方面的潜力。通过对药物机理的综合认识，对目前上市药物的分析，以及对未来发展方向的概述，旨在为该领域的重点研究提供科学依据。方法在Web of Science、PubMed、Scopus等多个数据库中检索截至2025年3月20日发表的文章。搜索词包含了与传统医学（“传统中药”、“传统草药”、“天然产品”）和疾病（“炎症性肠病”、“溃疡性结肠炎”、“克罗恩病”、“UC”、“CD”）相关的关键词。会议的重点是确定在现代医学背景下中医药在预防和治疗IBD方面的应用进展。结果stcm对IBD的治疗效果良好。其主要药理作用包括抗炎作用、调节肠道菌群、增强肠道屏障、免疫调节、抗氧化活性和抑制铁下沉。该分析还强调了持续存在的挑战，例如标准化辨证和将有希望的临床前发现转化为个性化治疗。中医药治疗IBD已得到广泛的研究和应用。然而，更深层次的阐明其机制和现有动物模型的临床相关性需要进一步研究。未来研究的主要任务是解决翻译差距。这就需要进行大规模的、严格设计的、以患者为中心的随机对照试验，利用客观的生物标志物和临床终点来寻找最有希望的候选成分。此外，探索个体化中药方剂是优化IBD管理的重要方向。
{"title":"Research progress on the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease by traditional Chinese medicine","authors":"Enjie Chen, Tong Wu","doi":"10.1016/j.prmcm.2026.100775","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.prmcm.2026.100775","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Introduction</h3><div>Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), encompassing ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease (CD), represents a growing global health challenge. This is particularly evident in China, where incidence rates have risen rapidly. Grounded in holistic principles, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) approaches IBD through syndrome differentiation, aiming to address its pathogenesis via multi-target mechanisms. This review integrates contemporary research with classical TCM theory to evaluate the potential of TCM in improving clinical outcomes for IBD. By synthesizing mechanistic insights, analyzing currently listed drugs, and outlining future development directions, it aims to provide a scientific foundation for key research priorities in this field.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>A literature search was conducted for articles published up to March 20, 2025, across multiple databases, including Web of Science, PubMed, and Scopus. Search terms incorporated keywords related to traditional medicine ('traditional Chinese medicine', 'traditional herbal medicine', 'natural products') and the disease ('inflammatory bowel disease', 'ulcerative colitis', 'Crohn's disease', 'UC', 'CD'). The focus was on identifying research detailing the progress in TCM application for the prevention and treatment of IBD within a modern medical context.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>TCM demonstrates positive outcomes in the treatment of IBD. Its key pharmacological actions include anti-inflammatory effects, modulation of the gut microbiota, reinforcement of the intestinal barrier, immune regulation, antioxidant activity, and inhibition of ferroptosis. The analysis also highlights persistent challenges, such as standardizing syndrome differentiation and translating promising preclinical findings into personalized therapies.</div></div><div><h3>Discussion</h3><div>TCM has been widely studied and applied for IBD. However, a deeper elucidation of its mechanisms and the clinical relevance of existing animal models require further investigation. The primary task for future research is to address translational gaps. This necessitates conducting large, rigorously designed, patient-centered randomized controlled trials that utilize objective biological markers and clinical endpoints for the most promising candidate components. Furthermore, exploring individualized TCM formulas represents a crucial direction for optimizing IBD management.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":101013,"journal":{"name":"Pharmacological Research - Modern Chinese Medicine","volume":"18 ","pages":"Article 100775"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-03-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147420159","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-03-01Epub Date: 2026-01-09DOI: 10.1016/j.prmcm.2026.100757
Palash Mitra , Sahadeb Jana , Barnali Singha Modak , Suchismita Roy
<div><h3>Introduction</h3><div>Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) is defined as an abrupt decrease in kidney function, which encompasses both injury and impairment and without treatment ultimately leading to chronic kidney disease (CKD), is a major public health concern linked to high mortality and morbidity. The biological significance of polyphenols, which are abundant in plant based foods and consist of thousands of plant compounds with a common structural component, has drawn a lot of interest. Traditional Chinese herbal medicinal plant has been shown to have a considerable impact on the prevention and treatment of renal fibrosis and inflammation, according to pharmacological and pharmacokinetic data backed by evidence. Emodin (dà huáng sù), an anthraquinone component found in traditional Chinese herb such as rhubarb (dà huáng) that has variety of pharmacological properties such as anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and immunosuppressive properties. This review discusses recent studies on the significant roles of emodin in activating multiples signaling pathway for treating kidney injury and its complications.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>Using predefined keywords linked to "emodin," "acute kidney injury," "diabetic nephropathy," "chronic kidney diseases," "multi-target therapy," and "signalling pathways," a comprehensive literature search was carried out in PubMed and Google Scholar. To assess pharmacological pathways and therapeutic effects, eligible studies were screened and synthesised in accordance with PRISMA criteria.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Modern pharmacological studies demonstrate that emodin exhibits significant AKI and CKD benefits through multiple mechanisms of action. Numerous studies have demonstrated that emodin downregulated oxidative stress and inflammation as reported from different <em>in vitro</em> and <em>in vivo</em> studies. The modern pharmacological research findings that traditional applications, highlighting emodin as a key active component responsible for the observed therapeutic effects of kidney injury.</div></div><div><h3>Discussion</h3><div>Emodin's diverse pharmacological properties have made it a promising treatment for chronic kidney damage. Emodin can greatly lessen kidney damage and inflammation while strengthening the antioxidant defence system. Emodin attenuating the mir-490/P53/AMPK/mTOR/CAMKII/DRP1/PGC-1α/Nrf2/EZH2/H3k27me3 signalling pathway and suppresses inflammatory responses in renal cells. Strong antioxidative properties of the emodin prevent oxidative stress, which is a major contributor to both AKI and the advancement of CKD.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>This review work enrich our knowledge on emodin's therapeutic effects on AKI and CKD and offer important insights into its clinical use in traditional medicine. However, there are very minimal clinical trials or practical applications, and the majority of current research is based on animal models or cell investigations.
{"title":"Therapeutic effect and underlying mechanism of emodin on renal injury","authors":"Palash Mitra , Sahadeb Jana , Barnali Singha Modak , Suchismita Roy","doi":"10.1016/j.prmcm.2026.100757","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.prmcm.2026.100757","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Introduction</h3><div>Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) is defined as an abrupt decrease in kidney function, which encompasses both injury and impairment and without treatment ultimately leading to chronic kidney disease (CKD), is a major public health concern linked to high mortality and morbidity. The biological significance of polyphenols, which are abundant in plant based foods and consist of thousands of plant compounds with a common structural component, has drawn a lot of interest. Traditional Chinese herbal medicinal plant has been shown to have a considerable impact on the prevention and treatment of renal fibrosis and inflammation, according to pharmacological and pharmacokinetic data backed by evidence. Emodin (dà huáng sù), an anthraquinone component found in traditional Chinese herb such as rhubarb (dà huáng) that has variety of pharmacological properties such as anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and immunosuppressive properties. This review discusses recent studies on the significant roles of emodin in activating multiples signaling pathway for treating kidney injury and its complications.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>Using predefined keywords linked to \"emodin,\" \"acute kidney injury,\" \"diabetic nephropathy,\" \"chronic kidney diseases,\" \"multi-target therapy,\" and \"signalling pathways,\" a comprehensive literature search was carried out in PubMed and Google Scholar. To assess pharmacological pathways and therapeutic effects, eligible studies were screened and synthesised in accordance with PRISMA criteria.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Modern pharmacological studies demonstrate that emodin exhibits significant AKI and CKD benefits through multiple mechanisms of action. Numerous studies have demonstrated that emodin downregulated oxidative stress and inflammation as reported from different <em>in vitro</em> and <em>in vivo</em> studies. The modern pharmacological research findings that traditional applications, highlighting emodin as a key active component responsible for the observed therapeutic effects of kidney injury.</div></div><div><h3>Discussion</h3><div>Emodin's diverse pharmacological properties have made it a promising treatment for chronic kidney damage. Emodin can greatly lessen kidney damage and inflammation while strengthening the antioxidant defence system. Emodin attenuating the mir-490/P53/AMPK/mTOR/CAMKII/DRP1/PGC-1α/Nrf2/EZH2/H3k27me3 signalling pathway and suppresses inflammatory responses in renal cells. Strong antioxidative properties of the emodin prevent oxidative stress, which is a major contributor to both AKI and the advancement of CKD.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>This review work enrich our knowledge on emodin's therapeutic effects on AKI and CKD and offer important insights into its clinical use in traditional medicine. However, there are very minimal clinical trials or practical applications, and the majority of current research is based on animal models or cell investigations. ","PeriodicalId":101013,"journal":{"name":"Pharmacological Research - Modern Chinese Medicine","volume":"18 ","pages":"Article 100757"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-03-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147420157","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-03-01Epub Date: 2026-02-19DOI: 10.1016/j.prmcm.2026.100783
Trilochan Satapathy, Anjali Minj
Introduction
Vitiligo (leukoderma) is a chronic autoimmune disorder characterized by selective melanocyte loss, resulting in depigmented skin patches. Its pathogenesis involves genetic susceptibility, immune-mediated melanocyte destruction, oxidative stress, neurological factors and chronic inflammation. Increasing evidence highlights shared pathogenic mechanisms between leukoderma and cardiovascular diseases (CVD), particularly systemic inflammation, immune dysregulation and oxidative stress, emphasizing the systemic nature of vitiligo and its associated cardiovascular risk. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), vitiligo is classified as Bai Dian Feng (Baidianfeng) and is linked to Qi and Xue imbalance, liver-kidney deficiency and blood stasis. Conventional therapies often show limited long-term efficacy and adverse effects.
Methods
This review analyzed experimental, preclinical and clinical studies on TCM herbal interventions for leukoderma, focusing on classical and modern Chinese preparations such as Bu Gu Zhi (Psoralea corylifolia), He Shou Wu (Polygonum multiflorum), Dang Gui (Angelica sinensis), Huang Qi (Astragalus membranaceus) and Xiao Bai Fang (Xiaobaifang). Literature was selected based on relevance to leukoderma pathophysiology, involvement of clearly identified TCM herbs or formulations, evaluation of antioxidant, immunomodulatory or melanogenic effects and availability of experimental or clinical outcome data.
Results
TCM-derived compounds reduced oxidative stress, modulated immune responses, and promoted melanocyte survival and repigmentation. Bioactives such as psoralens, stilbenes and flavonoids influenced NF-κB, Nrf2 and JAK-STAT signaling, with additional systemic anti-inflammatory effects relevant to cardiovascular risk reduction.
Discussion
This review highlights the importance of TCM-based herbal therapies as multi-targeted interventions addressing shared inflammatory pathways in leukoderma and CVD. Despite challenges such as formulation variability and limited large-scale trials, the findings support further clinical validation and integrative therapeutic development.
{"title":"Bioactive phytochemicals modulating skin depigmentation, inflammation and cardiovascular pathways","authors":"Trilochan Satapathy, Anjali Minj","doi":"10.1016/j.prmcm.2026.100783","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.prmcm.2026.100783","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Introduction</h3><div>Vitiligo (leukoderma) is a chronic autoimmune disorder characterized by selective melanocyte loss, resulting in depigmented skin patches. Its pathogenesis involves genetic susceptibility, immune-mediated melanocyte destruction, oxidative stress, neurological factors and chronic inflammation. Increasing evidence highlights shared pathogenic mechanisms between leukoderma and cardiovascular diseases (CVD), particularly systemic inflammation, immune dysregulation and oxidative stress, emphasizing the systemic nature of vitiligo and its associated cardiovascular risk. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), vitiligo is classified as Bai Dian Feng (Baidianfeng) and is linked to Qi and Xue imbalance, liver-kidney deficiency and blood stasis. Conventional therapies often show limited long-term efficacy and adverse effects.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>This review analyzed experimental, preclinical and clinical studies on TCM herbal interventions for leukoderma, focusing on classical and modern Chinese preparations such as Bu Gu Zhi (Psoralea corylifolia), He Shou Wu (Polygonum multiflorum), Dang Gui (Angelica sinensis), Huang Qi (Astragalus membranaceus) and Xiao Bai Fang (Xiaobaifang). Literature was selected based on relevance to leukoderma pathophysiology, involvement of clearly identified TCM herbs or formulations, evaluation of antioxidant, immunomodulatory or melanogenic effects and availability of experimental or clinical outcome data.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>TCM-derived compounds reduced oxidative stress, modulated immune responses, and promoted melanocyte survival and repigmentation. Bioactives such as psoralens, stilbenes and flavonoids influenced NF-κB, Nrf2 and JAK-STAT signaling, with additional systemic anti-inflammatory effects relevant to cardiovascular risk reduction.</div></div><div><h3>Discussion</h3><div>This review highlights the importance of TCM-based herbal therapies as multi-targeted interventions addressing shared inflammatory pathways in leukoderma and CVD. Despite challenges such as formulation variability and limited large-scale trials, the findings support further clinical validation and integrative therapeutic development.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":101013,"journal":{"name":"Pharmacological Research - Modern Chinese Medicine","volume":"18 ","pages":"Article 100783"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-03-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147420160","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-03-01Epub Date: 2026-02-13DOI: 10.1016/j.prmcm.2026.100780
Sangeeta Das , Tiyesh Paul , Sandip Mukherjee , Swagata Pal
Introduction
Alocasia indica, synonymous with Alocasia macrorrhizos (Araceae), corresponds botanically to the species documented in the Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) pharmacopeia, where A. macrorrhizos—referred to as Hai Yu—is commonly found throughout southern China. In TCM literature, A. macrorrhizos is incorporated into herbal formulations for conditions associated with inflammation, metabolic dysfunction, and oxidative stress key pathophysiological features of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS).
Methods
Forty-eight female Wistar rats were randomly divided into two initial sets (n = 24 each). Set-1 (Initial Control) received a normal diet (ND) and 1 % carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), while Set-2 (Initial PCOS) was fed a high-fat diet (HFD) and administered letrozole (1 mg/kg body weight, dissolved in 1 % CMC) for 21 days to induce PCOS. On day 22, six rats from each set were sacrificed for histological confirmation. The remaining rats were subdivided into six groups and maintained on ND for 28 days. From Set-1, Group A received CMC, Group B (E200) received 200 mg/kg BW EEAIT, and Group C (E400) received 400 mg/kg BW EEAIT. From Set-2, Group D received letrozole alone, Group E (PCOS+E200) received 200 mg/kg BW EEAIT, and Group F (PCOS+E400) received 400 mg/kg BW EEAIT. Estrous cyclicity was monitored during the initial and final four days of both phases.
Results
Letrozole administration resulted in irregular estrous cycles, hormonal imbalance, elevated oxidative stress, increased serum hs-CRP levels, and altered ovarian and uterine weights. EEAIT treatment at both doses significantly improved estrous cyclicity, normalized hormone levels, reduced hs-CRP, restored antioxidant status, and improved ovarian and uterine histoarchitecture compared to the PCOS control group.
Conclusion
EEAIT effectively ameliorates hormonal, inflammatory, and oxidative disturbances in letrozole-induced PCOS rats, supporting its therapeutic potential and providing scientific rationale for pharmacological activities associated with its taxonomical counterpart in TCM.
{"title":"Restoring ovarian function in PCOS: Ethanol extract of Alocasia indica tuber attenuates hormonal imbalance, oxidative stress, and cystic follicles in a letrozole-induced rat model","authors":"Sangeeta Das , Tiyesh Paul , Sandip Mukherjee , Swagata Pal","doi":"10.1016/j.prmcm.2026.100780","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.prmcm.2026.100780","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Introduction</h3><div><em>Alocasia indica</em>, synonymous with <em>Alocasia macrorrhizos (Araceae),</em> corresponds botanically to the species documented in the Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) pharmacopeia, where <em>A. macrorrhizos</em>—referred to as Hai Yu—is commonly found throughout southern China. In TCM literature, <em>A. macrorrhizos</em> is incorporated into herbal formulations for conditions associated with inflammation, metabolic dysfunction, and oxidative stress key pathophysiological features of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS).</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>Forty-eight female Wistar rats were randomly divided into two initial sets (<em>n</em> = 24 each). Set-1 (Initial Control) received a normal diet (ND) and 1 % carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), while Set-2 (Initial PCOS) was fed a high-fat diet (HFD) and administered letrozole (1 mg/kg body weight, dissolved in 1 % CMC) for 21 days to induce PCOS. On day 22, six rats from each set were sacrificed for histological confirmation. The remaining rats were subdivided into six groups and maintained on ND for 28 days. From Set-1, Group A received CMC, Group B (E200) received 200 mg/kg BW EEAIT, and Group C (E400) received 400 mg/kg BW EEAIT. From Set-2, Group D received letrozole alone, Group E (PCOS+E200) received 200 mg/kg BW EEAIT, and Group F (PCOS+E400) received 400 mg/kg BW EEAIT. Estrous cyclicity was monitored during the initial and final four days of both phases.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Letrozole administration resulted in irregular estrous cycles, hormonal imbalance, elevated oxidative stress, increased serum hs-CRP levels, and altered ovarian and uterine weights. EEAIT treatment at both doses significantly improved estrous cyclicity, normalized hormone levels, reduced hs-CRP, restored antioxidant status, and improved ovarian and uterine histoarchitecture compared to the PCOS control group.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>EEAIT effectively ameliorates hormonal, inflammatory, and oxidative disturbances in letrozole-induced PCOS rats, supporting its therapeutic potential and providing scientific rationale for pharmacological activities associated with its taxonomical counterpart in TCM.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":101013,"journal":{"name":"Pharmacological Research - Modern Chinese Medicine","volume":"18 ","pages":"Article 100780"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-03-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147421395","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-03-01Epub Date: 2025-12-26DOI: 10.1016/j.prmcm.2025.100749
Akash Bhati, Hemanth Kumar Boyina, Navneet Sharma
Introduction
Various parts of the Morus species have long been used in TCM, which are increasingly known for their anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This review systematically explores the phytochemical composition and therapeutic relevance of Morus species within the TCM framework.
Methods
A comprehensive literature analysis was conducted across ScienceDirect.PubMed and Google Scholar, concentrating more on peer-reviewed English-language articles, clinical trials, and reviews published up to 2025.
Results
Out of the initial 297 sources identified, 165 were selected for relevance to Morus and its bioactive constituents. More emphasis has been placed on those studies providing part-specific information on leaves, bark, stems, fruits, twigs, and roots, which are commonly used in traditional formulations. The review maps the distribution of phytochemicals across these botanical parts and highlights their pharmacological actions with special attention to anti-inflammatory and antioxidant mechanisms. Key compounds discussed in relation to modulation of oxidative stress, inflammatory pathways, and possible clinical applications include flavonoids, alkaloids, and polyphenols.
Discussion
The current synthesis provides a comprehensive phytochemical profile of Morus species and emphasizes their therapeutic potential in the management of chronic inflammatory-degenerative disorders. Despite this promise, the effects await further confirmation by targeted pharmacological studies and well-designed clinical trials. Elucidation of the role of bioactive compounds from Morus species might help to include such compounds in evidence-based complementary medicine and drug development strategies.
{"title":"Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant mechanisms of Morus species: Part-specific insights from traditional Chinese medicine","authors":"Akash Bhati, Hemanth Kumar Boyina, Navneet Sharma","doi":"10.1016/j.prmcm.2025.100749","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.prmcm.2025.100749","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Introduction</h3><div>Various parts of the Morus species have long been used in TCM, which are increasingly known for their anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This review systematically explores the phytochemical composition and therapeutic relevance of Morus species within the TCM framework.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>A comprehensive literature analysis was conducted across ScienceDirect.PubMed and Google Scholar, concentrating more on peer-reviewed English-language articles, clinical trials, and reviews published up to 2025.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Out of the initial 297 sources identified, 165 were selected for relevance to Morus and its bioactive constituents. More emphasis has been placed on those studies providing part-specific information on leaves, bark, stems, fruits, twigs, and roots, which are commonly used in traditional formulations. The review maps the distribution of phytochemicals across these botanical parts and highlights their pharmacological actions with special attention to anti-inflammatory and antioxidant mechanisms. Key compounds discussed in relation to modulation of oxidative stress, inflammatory pathways, and possible clinical applications include flavonoids, alkaloids, and polyphenols.</div></div><div><h3>Discussion</h3><div>The current synthesis provides a comprehensive phytochemical profile of Morus species and emphasizes their therapeutic potential in the management of chronic inflammatory-degenerative disorders. Despite this promise, the effects await further confirmation by targeted pharmacological studies and well-designed clinical trials. Elucidation of the role of bioactive compounds from Morus species might help to include such compounds in evidence-based complementary medicine and drug development strategies.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":101013,"journal":{"name":"Pharmacological Research - Modern Chinese Medicine","volume":"18 ","pages":"Article 100749"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-03-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145939177","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
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