Pharmacological Research - Modern Chinese Medicine最新文献

{"title":"The multifaceted therapeutic potential of Huangbai liniment: Modulation of IL, TGF-β and Nrf2 pathways in inflammation downregulation and diabetic wound healing","authors":"Abhishek Singh ,&nbsp;Seema Yadav ,&nbsp;Amita Verma ,&nbsp;Jagat Pal Yadav ,&nbsp;Narahari N. Palei","doi":"10.1016/j.prmcm.2025.100731","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.prmcm.2025.100731","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Huangbai liniment, derived from <em>Phellodendron amurense</em>, is widely recognized for its diverse therapeutic properties, such as reducing inflammation, combating oxidative stress, and promoting wound healing. This review consolidates scientific findings from authoritative databases, including PubMed, Springer Link, Wiley Online Library, Web of Science, the Chinese Electronic Periodical Services Database of Taiwan, Europe PMC, ScienceDirect, Google Scholar, and ClinicalTrials.gov. The therapeutic potential of Huangbai liniment was explored, particularly its role in modulating key cellular pathways, including IL, Nrf2, and TGF-β, which contribute to inflammation regulation and diabetic wound healing. The bioactive constituents of <em>Phellodendron amurense</em>, including alkaloids such as berberine, palmatine, and jatrorrhizine, exhibit significant antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and metabolic regulatory activities. Additionally, other active compounds, including lignans, phenolics, and limonoids, contribute to its broad-spectrum efficacy against conditions such as cancer, bacterial and viral infections, neurodegenerative diseases, and metabolic disorders. This review also highlights the available clinical trials. Given the increasing global interest in herbal medicine, particularly in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), further research is necessary to validate its therapeutic potential and facilitate its integration into modern pharmaceutical applications. This review underscores the significance of Huangbai liniment as a promising candidate for drug development, bridging traditional applications with scientific validation for future therapeutic innovations.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":101013,"journal":{"name":"Pharmacological Research - Modern Chinese Medicine","volume":"18 ","pages":"Article 100731"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-11-30","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145750173","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}

{"title":"Fermented Coix seed hydrolysate upregulates skin barrier genes and promotes wound healing","authors":"Nur Miftahurrohmah ,&nbsp;Catur Riani ,&nbsp;Ratna Annisa Utami ,&nbsp;Tri Suciati","doi":"10.1016/j.prmcm.2025.100729","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.prmcm.2025.100729","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Introduction</h3><div>Coix seed (CS), also known as <em>yì yǐ rén</em> or Chinese pearl barley, has been prescribed in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for centuries to clear heat, drain dampness, and alleviate inflammatory conditions. It is a key component of classical preparations such as <em>Qing Xin Pei Tu</em> granules and <em>Qin-Zhu-Liang-Xue</em> decoction, traditionally used for atopic eczema and other skin barrier-related disorders. CS has also been applied in topical formulations for acne and chronic ulcers. In modern practice, hydrolyzed and fermented CS products are increasingly utilized for their potential to enhance skin health. However, the mechanisms by which they influence skin barrier function and dermal wound healing remain poorly understood. This study aimed to investigate the effects of hydrolyzed CS and its fermented derivatives on skin barrier gene expression and dermal wound healing, thereby providing scientific support for their cosmetic application.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>CS was hydrolyzed using mild acid, supplemented with yeast extract, and fermented with <em>Lactiplantibacillus plantarum</em> TKK. The non-fermented CS hydrolysate (NF-AC10Y), fermented cell-free supernatant (FF-AC10Y), and fermented cell lysate supernatant (FL-AC10Y) were evaluated <em>in vitro</em> for their effects on skin barrier genes (<em>FLG</em>/pro-filaggrin, <em>IVL</em>/involucrin, and <em>LOR</em>/loricrin), dermal wound healing, and oxidative stress protection. Potential metabolites contributing to the bioactivities were also identified.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>FF-AC10Y exhibited the strongest activity. It upregulated <em>FLG, IVL,</em> and <em>LOR</em> mRNA levels in HaCaT keratinocytes by 2.29 ± 0.19-, 1.20 ± 0.08-, and 2.50 ± 0.04-fold, respectively, and achieved 88.1 ± 6.8 % wound closure in NIH/3T3 fibroblasts. It exhibited no cytotoxicity up to 5 mg/mL and protected both cell types against H₂O₂-induced oxidative stress. Metabolite analysis revealed lactic acid, saccharides, amino acids, fatty acid amides, and low-molecular-weight antioxidants as potential contributors to its bioactivities.</div></div><div><h3>Discussion</h3><div>FF-AC10Y demonstrates strong potential to reinforce the skin barrier by upregulating <em>FLG, IVL,</em> and <em>LOR</em> expression, supporting wound healing, and providing antioxidant protection. These findings scientifically validate the traditional use of CS in TCM for alleviating skin barrier disorders and clarify its mechanisms, bridging historical applications with modern cosmetic formulations.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":101013,"journal":{"name":"Pharmacological Research - Modern Chinese Medicine","volume":"18 ","pages":"Article 100729"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-11-30","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145694952","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}

{"title":"Multi-target immunomodulatory actions of Elaeagnus rhamnoides L.) A. Nelson phytocompounds on immune regulatory targets via integrative network pharmacology, docking, and molecular simulation","authors":"Venkatesan Karthick ,&nbsp;Dinesh Kumar Venkatachalam ,&nbsp;Singamoorthy Amalraj ,&nbsp;Rajkumar Thamarai ,&nbsp;Varghese Edwin Hillary ,&nbsp;Elsa Shibu Sruthy","doi":"10.1016/j.prmcm.2025.100726","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.prmcm.2025.100726","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Introduction</h3><div><em>Elaeagnus rhamnoides</em> (sea buckthorn; 沙棘 Shāji) has long been valued in Chinese traditional medicine as fruit purees, decoctions, and polysaccharide granules for enhancing immunity, treating chronic cough, nourishing yin, and promoting digestive and cardiovascular health. However, the precise immunomodulatory mechanisms of its bioactive compounds remain inadequately understood.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>This study comprehensively evaluated key phytocompounds from <em>E. rhamnoides</em> using network pharmacology and <em>in silico</em> computational analysis. Network pharmacology and molecular docking were applied to evaluate interactions with immune checkpoint proteins CTLA-4 (1AH1) and LAG-3 (7TZG). Electronic properties were assessed using density functional theory (DFT) calculations of HOMO–LUMO energy gaps. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations and MM-GBSA analyses assessed protein–ligand stability and binding energies. ProTox-II toxicity profiling and network pharmacology further elucidated safety and biological pathway associations.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>All selected phytocompounds showed strong binding affinities with CTLA-4 and LAG-3, with narcissin, tellimagrandin I, and astragalin demonstrating the most favourable docking scores and molecular interactions. DFT analysis revealed low HOMO–LUMO gaps (3.76–4.82 eV) for strictinin and tellimagrandin I (high chemical reactivity) and higher kinetic stability for astragalin and narcissin. MD simulations confirmed the stability of astragalin complexes, and MM-GBSA revealed that hydrophobic packing and van der Waals forces were the primary drivers of binding affinity. ProTox-II predicted generally low risks of organ toxicity for all compounds. Network pharmacology showed these phytochemicals target multiple core immune-regulatory genes (including NFB1, HIF1A, MAOA, and TLR4) and are involved in critical immunological pathways such as NF-κB, cytokine signalling, and the PD-1/PD-L1 axis.</div></div><div><h3>Discussion</h3><div>This study provides the first comprehensive <em>in silico</em> systems pharmacology analysis of <em>E. rhamnoides</em> phytocompounds as multi-target, low-toxicity immunomodulators, supporting traditional Chinese medicine applications. The strong and stable binding to immune checkpoints, favorable electronic properties, and multi-pathway engagement reinforce their promise as plant-based immunotherapeutics. These findings support further experimental validation and recommend the featured <em>E. rhamnoides</em> phytocompounds as promising multi-target leads for the development of novel immunomodulatory therapeutics in modern and traditional Chinese medicine contexts.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":101013,"journal":{"name":"Pharmacological Research - Modern Chinese Medicine","volume":"18 ","pages":"Article 100726"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-11-29","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145799892","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}

{"title":"Basil seeds unlock memory: Hydroalcoholic extract of Ocimum basilicum reverses haloperidol-induced cognitive deficits in Mice","authors":"Amudha Palanivelu ,&nbsp;Balaji V ,&nbsp;Durga Mohan ,&nbsp;Chetan Ashok ,&nbsp;Srikanth Jeyabalan ,&nbsp;Ling Shing Wong ,&nbsp;Mahendran Sekar ,&nbsp;Vetriselvan Subramaniyan ,&nbsp;Sivaraman Dhanasekaran ,&nbsp;Tamilanban Thamaraikani","doi":"10.1016/j.prmcm.2025.100719","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.prmcm.2025.100719","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Cognitive impairment associated with aging and neurodegenerative disease is an escalating public health burden, highlighting the need for safe, effective interventions that improve learning and memory. <em>Ocimum basilicum</em> Linn, traditionally used for medicinal purposes, contains bioactive constituents with antioxidant and neuroprotective potential, making it a promising natural candidate for cognition support.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>An integrative design combined <em>in silico</em> network pharmacology and molecular docking with <em>in vivo</em> assessment in Swiss albino mice subjected to haloperidol-induced amnesia. The hydroalcoholic seed extract of <em>Ocimum basilicum</em> was evaluated using validated behavioural paradigms (Morris water maze, Y-maze, passive avoidance, and novel object recognition), complemented by phytochemical screening and histopathological examination of brain tissue.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>The extract significantly improved spatial, working, and recognition memory in haloperidol-treated mice. Phytochemical screening indicated abundant flavonoids, saponins, phenols, and tannins; histology showed reduced neuronal damage, supporting a neuroprotective effect consistent with antioxidant activity. <em>In silico</em> analyses revealed strong binding affinities of key phytoconstituents to cognition-related targets and hub proteins, suggesting a multitarget mechanism of action.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>These findings indicate that the hydroalcoholic seed extract of <em>Ocimum basilicum</em> confers cognitive enhancement and neuroprotective effects in a haloperidol-induced amnesia model, likely through synergistic, multitarget engagement of antioxidant and anti-apoptotic pathways. Given the rising prevalence of dementia and the limitations of current therapies, further mechanistic studies and clinical trials are warranted to validate the translational potential of basil seed extract as a natural nootropic.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":101013,"journal":{"name":"Pharmacological Research - Modern Chinese Medicine","volume":"17 ","pages":"Article 100719"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-11-14","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145579010","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}

{"title":"Traditional wisdom to modern science: Hesperetin and naringenin as emerging traditional Chinese medicine-based treatments for Alzheimer’s disease","authors":"Dhani Ramachandran ,&nbsp;Win Win May ,&nbsp;Abu Bakar Abdul Majeed ,&nbsp;Sakina Ruhi ,&nbsp;Hanish Singh Jayasingh Chellammal","doi":"10.1016/j.prmcm.2025.100718","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.prmcm.2025.100718","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Hesperetin and naringenin are the two flavonoids that are widely applied in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and mostly found in citrus fruits. Both flavonoids have shown considerable neuroprotective potential. These substances originate from glycosidic precursors, hesperidin and naringin, which are chiefly found in medicinal plants like <em>Zanthoxylum avicennae</em> and <em>Citrus reticulata</em>. In TCM, these botanicals are historically utilized for their analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and digestive properties, but their potential in influencing neurodegenerative processes is receiving growing scrutiny.</div></div><div><h3>Objective</h3><div>The aim of this review is to cumulate the neuroprotective properties by systematically retrieving the peer-reviewed preclinical and clinical trial research and studies performed in hesperetin and naringenin on multiple mechanisms connected with AD.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>A complete systematic review has been employed by applying MeSH search terms through the application of keywords such as “Alzheimer’s Disease”, “Neuroprotection”, “amyloid”, molecular mechanistic pathways of AD which are discussed in this review and “Clinical trials” for the polyphenols naringenin and hesperetin. Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) analysis method was used for screening of the research studies conducted on naringenin and hesperetin.</div></div><div><h3>Results and discussion</h3><div>The review retrieved 319 articles in respect to the hesperetin and naringenin on neurodegenerative diseases related to AD. Further scrutinised to 87 with terms of decrease of amyloid-beta aggregation, prevention of tau hyperphosphorylation, mitigation of oxidative stress, and suppression of neuroinflammation. Furthermore, they affect essential molecular cascades, including the PI3K/AKT, NRF2/ARE, and NF-κB signalling pathways, which are intricate for neuronal survival and cognition. It was also found that their ability to cross the blood-brain barrier further amplifies their pharmacological significance in central nervous system illnesses.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>Hesperetin and naringenin, as natural multifunctional agents derived from traditional practices, present intriguing opportunities for integrative treatment approaches to AD, connecting the insights of TCM with contemporary neuropharmacology. Further, our review reveals several mechanisms; hesperetin and naringenin are yet to be evaluated in aspects of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis (HPA) associated with the stress pathway of neurodegeneration, and exploring the HPA renders additional mechanistic neuroprotective recognition.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":101013,"journal":{"name":"Pharmacological Research - Modern Chinese Medicine","volume":"17 ","pages":"Article 100718"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-11-11","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145579081","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}

{"title":"Polyphenolic-rich extract of Illicium verum fruit modulates inflammation in lipopolysaccharide-induced acute lung injury in rats","authors":"Maryam Adamu ,&nbsp;Olusola B. Adewale ,&nbsp;Scholastica O. Anadozie","doi":"10.1016/j.prmcm.2025.100717","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.prmcm.2025.100717","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Introduction</h3><div>Acute lung injury (ALI), one of the contributing factors of global mortality (about 40% of hospital deaths), is primarily associated with inflammatory responses and oxidative stress. <em>Illicium verum</em>, commonly called Ba jiao hui xiang <em>(八角茴香)</em> or Chinese star anise, is native to the subtropical provinces of Southwestern China and used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) to treat digestive disorders, insomnia, and colds, and as a spice in Chinese cuisines. This study investigated the protective effect of polyphenolic-rich extract of Illicium verum (PEIV) fruit against lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced ALI in rats.</div></div><div><h3>Methodology</h3><div>Phytochemicals in the plant was screened using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Thirty-five male Wistar rats were grouped into seven as follows: Control, ALI (250 µg/kg LPS via intraperitoneal injection for 5 days), ALI + silymarin, ALI + PEIV (25, 50 and 100 mg/kg), and PEIV (100 mg/kg) via oral administration for 14 days. At the end of the experimental study, lung tissues were collected for biochemical (oxidative stress and pro-inflammatory (interleukin 6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α)) and histological assays.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Fourteen distinct biological compounds were identified by the HPLC analysis, with cinnamic acid being the most abundant, at a concentration of 58.99 µg/100 g. The LPS markedly (<em>p</em> &lt; 0.05) increased the tissue arginase activity and levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), TNF-α, and IL-6. Also, a significant (<em>p</em> &lt; 0.05) decrease was noted in the levels of nitric oxide (NO) and reduced glutathione (GSH), as well as the activities of enzymatic antioxidants (superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione-s-transferase (GST)). However, pretreatment with PEIV protected the rats from LPS-induced ALI by a significant (<em>p</em> &lt; 0.05) reduction in the arginase activity and MDA levels and elevation (<em>p</em> &lt; 0.05) in the NO level and activities of antioxidant enzymes. Furthermore, PEIV reduced the levels of cytokines and reversed histological alterations induced by LPS.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>The result of this study showed that PEIV protected the rats from LPS-induced ALI by suppressing oxidative stress and inflammation and, therefore, could be considered a promising anti-inflammatory agent in managing ALI.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":101013,"journal":{"name":"Pharmacological Research - Modern Chinese Medicine","volume":"17 ","pages":"Article 100717"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-11-07","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145528410","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}

{"title":"Therapeutic potential of a combination of Nigella sativa, Momordica charantia, and Anethum graveolens in metabolic syndrome management: An in vivo study","authors":"Rajashekar S. Chavan ,&nbsp;Nayeem A. Khatib ,&nbsp;Vishal S. Patil ,&nbsp;Jagadeesh Dodakallanavar","doi":"10.1016/j.prmcm.2025.100716","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.prmcm.2025.100716","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a multifactorial disorder characterized by abdominal obesity, insulin resistance (IR), hypertension, dyslipidemia, and an increased risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Conventional pharmacological interventions primarily manage symptoms but are associated with adverse effects. Bioactive compounds from medicinal plants offer promising multi-targeted therapeutic benefits. This study evaluates the efficacy of a polyherbal formulation containing extracts of <em>Nigella sativa</em> (NS, seed), <em>Momordica charantia</em> (MC, fruit), and <em>Anethum graveolens</em> (AG, fruit) in mitigating MetS-induced complications in an olanzapine (Zyprexa)-induced MetS rat model.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>Animals were divided into five groups: normal control (saline), disease control (olanzapine (Zyprexa) 2 mg/kg, i.p., twice daily), and three treatment groups receiving olanzapine (Zyprexa) with formulations containing combination of NS, MC, and AG at 200 mg/kg (100:50:50), 400 mg/kg (200:100:100), and 800 mg/kg (400:200:200) orally. The study assessed metabolic parameters, including blood glucose levels, body weight, food and water intake, lipid profile, and Hemoglobin A1c/ glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels. Cardiac activity function was evaluated using electrocardiography (ECG). Antioxidant status was assessed by estimating superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and reduced glutathione (GSH) levels in tissue homogenates of the heart, liver, and pancreas. Histopathological examinations of these organs were also performed.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Polyherbal formulation 800 mg/kg (400:200:200 ratio) significantly reduced blood glucose levels, improved lipid profiles, and mitigated weight gain induced by olanzapine (Zyprexa). ECG analysis demonstrated cardioprotective effects. Antioxidant enzyme activity, including SOD, CAT, and GSH levels, was notably improved in tissue homogenates. Histopathological evaluation further confirmed the protective effects on the liver, heart, and pancreas.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>The findings suggest that the polyherbal formulation exerts protective effects against MetS by ameliorating blood glucose levels, improving lipid profile, enhancing antioxidant status, and preserving tissue architecture, thereby highlighting its potential as a natural therapeutic alternative for the management of metabolic syndrome.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":101013,"journal":{"name":"Pharmacological Research - Modern Chinese Medicine","volume":"17 ","pages":"Article 100716"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-11-05","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145528411","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}

{"title":"Discovery of antioxidant peptides from Humulus scandens by multi-step virtual screening, molecular docking, ligand efficiency analysis, and molecular dynamics simulation","authors":"Shi Qi Xu ,&nbsp;Wenchao Gong ,&nbsp;Wenjie Qin ,&nbsp;Dong-Hwa Chung ,&nbsp;De Xin Dang","doi":"10.1016/j.prmcm.2025.100715","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.prmcm.2025.100715","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are generated under both physiological and pathological conditions, including strenuous exercise, inflammation, and unhealthy dietary intake. Excessive ROS accumulation induces oxidative stress, which damages cellular components and contributes to the onset and progression of chronic diseases. Efficient elimination of ROS is therefore essential for maintaining redox homeostasis and promoting health. Antioxidant peptides derived from herbal medicines have recently gained increasing attention due to their natural origin, safety, and multifunctional biological activities. Compared with synthetic antioxidants, which may raise safety concerns with long-term use, these bioactive peptides represent a promising alternative.</div></div><div><h3>Purpose</h3><div>This study aimed to investigate Humulus scandens (HS), a traditional herbal medicine with reported antioxidant capacity, as a potential source of novel antioxidant peptides.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>A systematic in silico workflow was applied, integrating virtual screening, molecular docking, ligand efficiency analysis, and molecular dynamics simulations. Keap1, a critical regulator of oxidative stress signaling, was selected as the molecular target.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Seven candidate peptides were identified based on predicted non-toxicity, bioactivity, and favorable intestinal absorption. Among these, the tripeptide PGW demonstrated the greatest potential. Molecular docking revealed that PGW interacts with Keap1 through 10 hydrogen bonds, 1 hydrophobic interaction, and 22 van der Waals forces. Subsequent molecular dynamics simulations confirmed the stability of the PGW-Keap1 complex and supported its strong binding affinity.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>The tripeptide PGW, derived from HS protein, exhibits promising antioxidant potential through direct interaction with Keap1. These findings highlight PGW as a candidate for development into functional food ingredients or nutraceuticals aimed at preventing oxidative stress-related disorders.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":101013,"journal":{"name":"Pharmacological Research - Modern Chinese Medicine","volume":"17 ","pages":"Article 100715"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-11-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145528540","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}

{"title":"Crithmum maritimum: Phytoconstituents composition, and potential anticancer activity in gastrointestinal cancer mechanisms and prospects","authors":"Sourav Pal ,&nbsp;Arghya Panda ,&nbsp;Biprojit Bhowmick ,&nbsp;Khokan Bera","doi":"10.1016/j.prmcm.2025.100714","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.prmcm.2025.100714","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Introduction</h3><div><em>Crithmum maritimum</em>(sea fennel, Chinese: 海茴香 [hǎi huí xiāng]) is an edible halophyte traditionally valued in both Mediterranean diets and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), where it is prescribed for “dissolving masses,” regulating qi, and resolving damp-heat/toxins—concepts aligned with anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anticancer effects. Rich in phenolic acids, flavonoids, essential oils, fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals, it shows potential against gastrointestinal tract (GIT) cancers, a growing global health burden.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>A systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar for studies published between 2010 and 2025, limited to English language studies, using keywords “Crithmum maritimum,” “sea fennel,” “gastrointestinal cancer,” “anticancer,” “polyphenols,” “essential oils,” and “bioactive compounds.” of 167 retrieved records, 138 met the inclusion criteria: original in vitro, in vivo, or clinical research evaluating <em>C. maritimum</em> or its constituents for anticancer activity in GIT malignancies. Exclusion criteria removed reviews without new data, unrelated species, and studies lacking mechanistic outcomes.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div><em>C. maritimum</em> exhibits preclinical efficacy against GIT cancers via modulation of p53, NRF2, and Wnt/β-catenin pathways, aligning with its traditional TCM uses. Studies identified chlorogenic acid (30–50 % of total polyphenol), gallic acid (15–20 % of terpene), limonene, sabinene, α-pinene, γ-terpinene, fatty acids, and vitamin C as key anticancer agents that promote apoptosis, inhibit angiogenesis, and attenuate oxidative and inflammatory signaling in GIT cancer models.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div><em>C. maritimum</em> exhibits a broad phytochemical spectrum with multitargeted preclinical efficacy against GIT cancers, consistent with its historical TCM applications. Standardization, mechanistic validation, and clinical trials are required to advance its therapeutic integration.</div></div><div><h3>Significance Statement</h3><div>This review unites TCM tradition with modern biomedical evidence, highlighting <em>C. maritimum</em> as a promising natural agent for GIT cancer prevention and management, with mechanistic breadth well-suited to the multifactorial nature of these malignancies.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":101013,"journal":{"name":"Pharmacological Research - Modern Chinese Medicine","volume":"17 ","pages":"Article 100714"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-11-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145466300","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}

{"title":"Honokiol as a next-generation phytotherapeutic: Anticancer, neuroprotective, and nanomedicine perspectives","authors":"Dilpreet Singh ,&nbsp;Nandni ,&nbsp;Neena Bedi","doi":"10.1016/j.prmcm.2025.100713","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.prmcm.2025.100713","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Introduction</h3><div>Honokiol (<strong>厚朴酚, Hou Po Fen</strong>), a biphenolic compound derived from the bark of <em>Magnolia officinalis</em> (<strong>厚朴, Hou Po</strong>), has emerged as a promising phytochemical with multi-target pharmacological activities. Traditionally used in East Asian medicine, it is now being investigated for applications in cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, inflammation, and infectious diseases. Its therapeutic promise is attributed to its ability to modulate critical signaling pathways including NF-κB, STAT3, PI3K/Akt/mTOR, and Nrf2.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>This review synthesizes and critically analyzes published evidence on honokiol’s chemical properties, mechanisms of action, pharmacological activities, and nanotechnology-based delivery systems. Literature was sourced from PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases, focusing on preclinical, clinical, and formulation studies of honokiol between 2000–2025. Key molecular targets, in vitro and in vivo efficacy, and translational challenges were evaluated and summarized.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Honokiol demonstrates potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antimicrobial, and neuroprotective activities. It effectively induces apoptosis, inhibits angiogenesis, and modulates tumor microenvironmental factors. Neuroprotective actions include attenuation of neuroinflammation, preservation of mitochondrial function, and improvement of cognitive performance. Nanocarrier-based systems—such as liposomes, polymeric nanoparticles, micelles, and nanoemulsions—significantly improve honokiol’s solubility, stability, and bioavailability. Preclinical data confirm efficacy across cancer, neurological, and inflammatory models, though clinical evidence remains limited.</div></div><div><h3>Discussion</h3><div>Honokiol represents a promising next-generation phytotherapeutic candidate bridging traditional Chinese medicine and modern molecular pharmacology. Despite strong preclinical support, translational progress is hindered by low water solubility, poor bioavailability, limited clinical trials, and regulatory challenges. Advances in nanotechnology, epigenetic modulation, and personalized medicine approaches may accelerate clinical adoption. Future research should focus on standardized formulations, biomarker-driven trials, and integration with emerging therapeutic technologies.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":101013,"journal":{"name":"Pharmacological Research - Modern Chinese Medicine","volume":"17 ","pages":"Article 100713"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-10-26","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145466289","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}