Pharmacological Research - Modern Chinese Medicine最新文献

Introduction

Saururus chinensis (Saururaceae) is an important medicinal plant used in traditional Chinese and Korean medicine to treat human diseases. Sauchinone, a lignin from Saururus chinensis, is reported to have numerous pharmacological applications in medicine, including anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, anti-obesity, and hepatoprotective effects.

Methods

The purpose of this review article is to describe the scientific information about sauchinone, its medical importance and pharmacological activity in order to explore the potential health benefits of sauchinone in medicine. In this review, all the scientific information about sauchinone was collected from PubMed, Scopus, Science Direct, Google, and Google Scholar. Additionally, this review also described the pharmacokinetics of sauchinone in order to understand the plasma drug profile of sauchinone with their molecular docking studies.

Results

Scientific evidence in this review article described the biological importance of sauchinone in medicine against breast cancer, colorectal cancer, gastric cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma, liver cancer, lung adenocarcinoma, pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, osteosarcoma, diabetes, ulcerative colitis, inflammatory bowel disease, osteoarthritis, liver disorders and other human complications. Additionally, molecular docking studies, and pharmacokinetics parameters of sauchinone were also presented in this review to know their therapeutic value in medicine. However, molecular mechanisms of sauchinone were also described in the present review in order to know their biological significance in different kinds of human complications.

Discussion

The scientific evidence in this article demonstrates the medicinal importance and the molecular mechanisms involved in the pharmacological activities of sauchinone in medicine. However, detailed preclinical and clinical data are still needed in scientific research to declare the therapeutic efficacy of sauchinone against human diseases.

Introduction

Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD), characterized by their progressive nature and debilitating impact on individuals' cognitive and motor functions, pose a significant challenge to public health. Despite extensive research efforts, the severity of cognitive dysfunction remains formidable, with gaps persisting in understanding its underlying mechanisms and developing effective therapeutic interventions. Natural phytohormones have emerged as promising candidates for managing neurodegenerative diseases, offering potential avenues for therapeutic intervention. The phytohormone trans-zeatin (tZ) is a derivative of the cytokinin zeatin (6-isopentenylaminopurine). tZ derivatives such as N6-isopentyl adenosine (iPR), t-zeatin riboside (tZR), kinetin (K), and kinetin riboside (KR) are the active components available in coconut water and are also isolated from many plant extracts that aid in plant growth.

Methods

We searched the various online databases (Pub-Med, WOS, and Google Scholar) for the last twenty years using keywords such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, phytohormones, trans-zeatin, and cytokinins, paired with traditional Chinese plants. This literature review sought to illuminate the therapeutic role of cytokinins in AD and PD. In addition, this article talked about the biological importance of cytokinins to understand how trans-zeatin and its derivatives, which are cytokinins, protect neurons. We searched and screened 75 articles. Results were summarized, compared, and research gaps identified throughout the data collection and interpretation.

Results

TZ and its derivatives have garnered attention for their notable biological activities such as antioxidant, anti-aging, cytoprotective, anti-inflammatory, and particularly their anti-Alzheimer and anti-Parkinson effects. tZ may be useful as a treatment for Alzheimer's disease because it stops cholinesterase from working, stops amyloid beta (Aβ) from clumping together, and changes the Nrf2/ARE pathway. In Parkinson's disease (PD), tZ prevents the degeneration of dopaminergic neurons by lowering JNK/P38 phosphorylation, moderating Bax-mediated apoptosis, and blocking caspase 3/7 activation.

Discussion and conclusion

Dietary foods could incorporate trans-zeatin, derived from coconut (Cocos nucifera) and other natural sources, to provide a variety of health benefits. Because they can change important cellular pathways like Nrf2, NF-κB, and PI3K/Akt, they may be able to protect neurons from damage and slow down its growth. By evaluating trans-zeatin's efficacy in preclinical and clinical studies, it holds the promise of becoming a valuable therapeutic agent for combating neurodegeneration in AD and PD.

Introduction

Tea is one of the most consumed beverages after water. It is obtained from the leaves of Camellia sinensis. Based on processing, it is classified as green, black, white, yellow, etc. Green tea, a non-fermented tea consists of rich content of polyphenols. Epigallocatechin-3-gallate is one of its major bioactive recognized for its immense therapeutics, especially as antioxidants. The antioxidant properties are supposed to be associated with the anticancer properties.

Method

The present study emphasizes on the phytochemistry, anticancer efficacy and anticancer mechanism of action of green tea. The literature survey was conducted from 2017 to 2024 using different scientific databases.

Results

Epicatechin-3-gallate was the major phytocompound of green tea, responsible for its diverse pharmacological effects. The plant is highly explored against breast cancer. The anticancer mechanism is mainly attributed to its apoptosis-inducing potential. Recent new technologies in tea processing, botanical description, ethnomedicinal and clinical studies were also discussed.

Conclusion

The plant possesses promising anticancer activity. Hence, further studies on the anticancer drug development and toxicity status of green tea bioactives may provide new insights into their therapeutic potential and associated safety issues.

Background

Dayuan Yin (DYY) is a classical formula used for treating plague, known for anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. It has shown potential in alleviating acute lung injury (ALI), though its mechanisms remain unclear. This study aimed to investigate the effects and mechanisms of DYY in treating ALI.

Methods

Network pharmacology and molecular docking techniques were used to elucidate the potential targets and mechanisms of DYY in treating ALI. Subsequently, in vivo experiment was performed to verify the findings from bioinformatics analysis. λ-Carrageenan (λ-Car) was used to establish the ALI model. At 1 h before 2% λ-Car injection, 3 g/kg or 9 g/kg DYY were administered orally. 4 h after λ-Car-induced injury, the efficacy of DYY in treating ALI was assessed using several methods, including Wright-Giemsa staining to examine inflammatory cells in mouse pleural exudates, hematoxylin and eosin staining of lung tissues, and serum cytokine levels, cytokine mRNA levels in lung tissues, key protein levels were detected.

Results

Network pharmacology and molecular docking analyses suggested that signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3), interleukin-6, and tumor necrosis factor alpha might be the key regulated proteins, while the nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) pathway could be the pathway involved. In vivo, the lung injury score of mice decreased to 0.78 from 3.44 after treating 9 g/kg DYY. Compared with the λ-Car group, the number of inflammatory cells in the DYY groups were decreased by 63 - 73% in pleural effusion. Further analysis showed that DYY could reduce the release of inflammatory cytokines, inhibit the activation of NF-κB signaling pathway, and downregulate the expression of p-janus kinase 2 (JAK2), p-STAT3, and matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9), thereby protecting against ALI.

Conclusion

The study revealed remarkable potential of DYY in alleviating λ-Car-induced ALI through inhibiting the JAK2/STAT3/MMP-9 and NF-κB signaling pathways.

Introduction

Coronary heart disease (CHD) is a leading cause of mortality and morbidity globally, highlighting the need for effective therapeutic strategies. This systematic review evaluates the cardioprotective mechanisms of ginseng and its potential as a complementary or adjunctive therapy in the prevention and management of CHD.

Methods

A systematic literature search was conducted in major databases (SCOPUS, PubMed, Google Scholar) following PRISMA guidelines to identify relevant preclinical and clinical studies investigating ginseng's effects on CHD and associated cardiovascular conditions. Studies reporting positive outcomes related to the cardioprotective properties of ginseng or its active compounds were included for analysis.

Results

Ginseng and its bioactive constituents, especially ginsenosides, exhibit diverse cardioprotective mechanisms in CHD, including vasodilation, hypotensive, antioxidant, anti-hyperlipidemic effects, anti- atherosclerotic, antithrombotic, anti-inflammatory and various other molecular mechanism proven by preclinical and clinical studies that demonstrates ginseng can mitigates myocardial ischemia, improves cardiac contractility, and regulates blood pressure, lipid profiles, thrombus formation and glycemic control.

Discussion

Ginseng represents a promising natural therapeutic for CHD management due to its well-established safety profile and diverse cardioprotective properties targeting multiple pathways involved in disease pathophysiology. Although, more robust clinical evidence is needed. Integrating Ginseng into conventional treatment regimens, guided by scientific research, could enhance CHD management and improve patient outcomes.

Introduction

Gelsemium, a whole grass in the family Loganiaceae, is the world's poisonous plants. Due to its flower's resemblance to honeysuckle, there has been a rise in cases of accidental ingestion of Gelsemium, leading to poisoning and even fatalities in recent years. Although this problem has been apparent for many years, there is now promise that it can be better understood. This work seeks to comprehensively summarizes.

Methods

References for this review were collected by searching CNKI (http://www.cnki.com.cn) and PubMed untill 29 October 2023. The selection of articles was performed by reading the title, abstract, and keywords.

Results

Gelsedine-type alkaloids are identified as the primary toxic constituents in Gelsemium. Animal experimentation has elucidated the acute neurotoxic impact of Gelsemium, primarily characterized by inhibition of the respiratory center. This effect may be intricately linked to the disruption of GABA/Glu equilibrium and NMDA receptor-mediated excitotoxicity. Some studies have found the potential reduction of toxicity in Gelsemium through processing and compatibility with traditional Chinese Medicine. However, prompt endotracheal intubation and mechanical ventilation are paramount in clinical instances of Gelsemium poisoning. Additionally, there is evidence supporting the efficacy of enhancing CYP3A4/5 enzyme metabolism can diminish the concentration of Gelsemium and mortality rates from poisoning.

Discussion

This review provides a summary of clinical symptoms and rescue measures for Gelsemium poisoning, aiming to enhance treatment options and mitigate toxic effects. The elucidation of Gelsemium's neurotoxic mechanism may offer insights for future research, particularly in understanding Gelsemium's regulatory role on GABA receptor and NMDA receptor, which is expected to identify and develop specific antidotes for Gelsemium poisoning.

Introduction

Arthritis is a common inflammatory joint disease; causing severe pain, anxiety, and depression. Sorghum bicolor L. Moench (Pocaeae) is used for treating cough, asthma, and arthritic pain in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). This study evaluates the anti-nociceptive and anti-arthritic effects of the polyphenol-rich Sorghum bicolor supplement (SBS) in rodents.

Methods

The anti-nociceptive activity of SBS was assessed using hot plate, acetic acid mouse writhing, and formalin-induced paw licking tests in mice. In the arthritis study, rats received SBS (50, 100, and 200 mg/kg p.o) for 28 days. Thirty minutes after treatment on days, 1 and 20, rats received intra-articular injection of Complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA) for arthritis induction. Arthritic scores and paw edema were determined before assessing motor function, anxiety, depression, hyperalgesia and allodynia on day 28. Lipid profiles were determined, and ankle and brain tissues were analyzed for oxidative stress and inflammatory biomarkers, alongside histopathological studies.

Results

SBS reduced nociceptive responses induced by noxious heat, acetic acid and formalin in mice. In CFA-injected rats, SBS decreased paw volume and arthritic scores, and increased pain thresholds to thermal, cold, and mechanical stimuli. The SBS reduced motor activity, anxiety and depression, and improved serum lipid profiles in arthritic rats. It further modulated oxidative stress, pro-inflammatory cytokines, nuclear factor kappa (NF-kB), apoptotic markers, nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2), glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in CFA-treated rats. SBS produced histopathological improvements in joint tissues of arthritic rats.

Discussion

This study revealed that SBS exhibited anti-nociceptive activity in mice and reduces inflammation, hyperalgesia, anxiety and depression in CFA-arthritic rats. The ability of SBS to modulate key biomarkers such as pro-inflammatory cytokines, NF-κB, caspases, Nrf2, BDNF, and GAD highlights its multifaceted approach in addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of arthritis, providing a comprehensive therapeutic strategy, justifying its use in TCM for this debilitating condition.

Introduction

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is renowned for its holistic treatment approach and minimal side effects. Luteolin (LUT) and Quercetin (QUE) each possess notable anticancer properties. This study is the first to elucidate the synergistic anticancer activity of the combination of LUT and QUE (LUT+QUE) against lung cancer.

Methods

The synergistic anticancer activity of QUE+LUT was evaluated through the combination index (CI) value by varying the concentrations of QUE and LUT. Network pharmacology analysis was then employed to identify the key targets and crucial signaling pathways for QUE and LUT. Finally, the synergistic anticancer mechanisms of QUE+LUT were elucidated by verifying these core targets and pathways through various experiments, including apoptosis assays, migration assays, ELISA, Western blot and reactive oxygen species (ROS) assays.

Results

The key targets identify through network pharmacology analysis include BCL2L1, MMP9, JUN, PTGS2, TP53, AKT1 and CASP3. The crucial pathways are the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway and chemically-induce carcinogenic ROS pathways. Cellular experiments demonstrate that QUE+LUT synergistically induce apoptosis, inhibit cell proliferation, migration and invasion, increase ROS levels and regulate the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, effectively targeting lung cancer cells.

Discussion

The combined therapy of QUE and LUT holds potential as an effective treatment for cancer patients, providing valuable insights for the selection and mechanistic exploration of important anticancer drugs.

Introduction: In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), Benincasa hispida (B. Hispida) has a long history of use as a medicinal herb. Benincasa hispida contains a wide range of phytochemical elements, with the five most notable bioactive substances being Flavonoids, alkaloids, Tannins, Saponins and Phenols were also present. Numerous pharmacological activities, such as antioxidant, anti-cancer, and antiviral properties, have been established by these substances. Furthermore, B. Hispida has been studied for its ability to treat a variety of illnesses, including cancer, heart problems, and neurological issues. This review aims to provide an updated overview of the phytochemical constituents and pharmacological attributes B. Hispida.

Method: A thorough search of scientific databases, such as Web of Science, PubMed, and Scopus, was done in order to find pertinent research up to 2002 to 2023. There have more than 90 review and research papers from scientific sources collected with inclusion criteria of ethno pharmacological uses of selected herb and exclusion criteria of herbs including botanical description's, morphological patterns of selected herb etc.

Result: Benincasa hispida highlights the continued need for scientific research and clinical evaluation by offering a compelling path for potential medicinal development.

Conclusion: Different parts of Benincasa Hispida have yielded a variety of phytochemicals that might be used to cure illnesses and open up new research avenues in the future.

Introduction

Malignant ascites is a common complication of advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) that seriously affects the quality of life and survival of patients and has poor clinical efficacy. In the early stages, the authors found that the combination of the Shengqing Jiangzhuo decoction (SQJZD)and Endostar can effectively alleviate the clinical symptoms of malignant ascites in patients with HCC and reduce the amount of malignant ascites. The purpose of this study was to investigate the mechanism of action of SQJZD in HCC-related malignant ascites.

Methods

A malignant ascites BALB/c mouse model was established by the intraperitoneal inoculation of H22 cells. The mice were randomly divided into model, Endostar, and high-, medium-, and low-dose traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) combined with Endostar groups. Normal mice from the same batch were used as the normal group. The Endostar and TCM + Endostar groups were intraperitoneally injected with Endostar, whereas the model and normal groups were intraperitoneally injected with equal amounts of normal saline. Different doses of SQJZD were administered to each TCM group, and equal amounts of distilled water were administered to the normal, model, and Endostar groups.

Results

The malignant ascites volume and body weight were higher in the model group than in the normal group. After treatment, the volume and body weight of mice with malignant ascites decreased, especially in the SQJZD combined with Endostar group. Compared with that in the normal group, the number of regulatory T cells (Tregs) in the peripheral blood and spleen of mice in the model group was significantly decreased; the number of regulatory dendritic cells (DCregs), myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), and tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) in the peripheral blood were not significantly changed; and the number of DCregs, MDSCs, and TAMs in the spleen was increased. Compared with those in the model group, the numbers of Tregs, DCregs, MDSCs, and TAMs in the peripheral blood increased in the Endostar or SQJZD combined with Endostar groups, whereas the numbers of Tregs, DCregs, MDSCs, and TAMs in the spleen decreased. Western blotting revealed that the percentage of p-STAT3-positive cells in the liver and spleen of mice increased in the model group, whereas the percentage of p-STAT3-positive cells in the liver and spleen decreased in mice treated with Endostar or SQJZD combined with Endostar.

Conclusions

SQJZD combined with Endostar may attenuate immunosuppression and enhance the antitumor immune response by regulating the STAT3 pathway to alleviate malignant ascites in HCC.