Pub Date : 2025-09-12DOI: 10.1016/j.prmcm.2025.100685
Poloko Stephen Kheoane , Kingsley Chimaeze Mbara , Mosoatsi Lawrence Mputi , Ts’epo Arnold Lenkoe , Sebusiswe Magama , Mokonyana Mohale , Clemence Tarirai
<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Medicinal plants have been used traditionally as oral and topical herbs for treating inflammation and alleviating pain. Particularly in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) practices, many plants from the genera <em>Malva, Prunus</em>, and <em>Cupressus</em> are used to treat various inflammation-related diseases. This study investigated <em>in vitro</em> and <em>in vivo</em> anti-inflammatory activity of the root extracts of <em>Malva parviflora</em>, the exudates of <em>Prunus persica, Cupressus sempervirens</em> and their chitosan nanoparticles and chitosan nanogels.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div><em>In vitro</em> anti-inflammatory activities of <em>M. parviflora</em> root extracts, <em>P. persica</em> and <em>C. sempervirens</em> exudates were investigated using the protein denaturation assay method. A 1% bovine albumin reaction mixture in phosphate buffer and 80% (v/v) methanol was incubated with plant extracts or exudates at 37 °C and 70 °C. Cross-linked chitosan nanoparticles loaded with plant extracts or exudates were prepared by the gelation method. The entrapment efficiency of the plants in the chitosan nanoformulation was estimated using the phenolic content of plant materials. The nanoparticles-based nanogel was formulated by suspending nanoparticles in a gel base. Inflammation was induced in Wistar rats (230 – 270 g) by subcutaneous injection of 0.1 mL of 1% (w/v) carrageenan in the plantar tissue of the right hind paw of the rats. The rats (<em>n</em> = 48) were randomly divided into two experimental groups (A and B) of 24 rats each for oral and topical administration of nanoformulations, respectively. Each group (<em>n</em> = 24) was subdivided into 6 test group (<em>n</em> = 4), where test groups 1, 2, and 3 were treated with 500 mg/kg/BW each of <em>M. parviflora, C. sempervirens</em>, and <em>P. persica</em> nanoparticle/nanogel, either orally or topically, respectively. Test groups 4, 5, and 6, respectively served as positive control, placebo nanoparticles (<em>i.e.</em>, chitosan nanoparticles), and negative control, treated orally or topically with indomethacin (50 mg/kg/BW), chitosan nanoparticle/nanogel alone (500 mg/kg/BW/100 mg/kg/BW), and saline (3 mL).</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div><em>P. persica</em> exudate had the highest TPC of 70.42 ± 0.53 µg of GAE/mg compared to <em>M. parviflora</em> root extract and <em>C. sempervirens</em> exudate with the 30.93 ± 1.65 µg of GAE/mg and 9.99 ± 0.65 µg of GAE/mg, respectively. <em>M. parviflora</em> root extracts had the highest <em>in vitro</em> protein denaturation (92.40%) compared to leaves and stem extracts. <em>P. persica</em> and <em>C. sempervirens</em> nanoparticles had the highest entrapment efficiencies (99.46% and 99.56%). <em>M. parviflora</em> root extract nanoparticles showed the greatest inhibition of oedema (90%) with oral administration, outperforming <em>P. persica</em> and <em>C. sempervirens</em> exudates nanoparticle
{"title":"Anti-inflammatory effects of orally and topically administered nanoformulations of Malva parviflora root extracts, and Prunus persica and Cupressus sempervirens exudates","authors":"Poloko Stephen Kheoane , Kingsley Chimaeze Mbara , Mosoatsi Lawrence Mputi , Ts’epo Arnold Lenkoe , Sebusiswe Magama , Mokonyana Mohale , Clemence Tarirai","doi":"10.1016/j.prmcm.2025.100685","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.prmcm.2025.100685","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Medicinal plants have been used traditionally as oral and topical herbs for treating inflammation and alleviating pain. Particularly in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) practices, many plants from the genera <em>Malva, Prunus</em>, and <em>Cupressus</em> are used to treat various inflammation-related diseases. This study investigated <em>in vitro</em> and <em>in vivo</em> anti-inflammatory activity of the root extracts of <em>Malva parviflora</em>, the exudates of <em>Prunus persica, Cupressus sempervirens</em> and their chitosan nanoparticles and chitosan nanogels.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div><em>In vitro</em> anti-inflammatory activities of <em>M. parviflora</em> root extracts, <em>P. persica</em> and <em>C. sempervirens</em> exudates were investigated using the protein denaturation assay method. A 1% bovine albumin reaction mixture in phosphate buffer and 80% (v/v) methanol was incubated with plant extracts or exudates at 37 °C and 70 °C. Cross-linked chitosan nanoparticles loaded with plant extracts or exudates were prepared by the gelation method. The entrapment efficiency of the plants in the chitosan nanoformulation was estimated using the phenolic content of plant materials. The nanoparticles-based nanogel was formulated by suspending nanoparticles in a gel base. Inflammation was induced in Wistar rats (230 – 270 g) by subcutaneous injection of 0.1 mL of 1% (w/v) carrageenan in the plantar tissue of the right hind paw of the rats. The rats (<em>n</em> = 48) were randomly divided into two experimental groups (A and B) of 24 rats each for oral and topical administration of nanoformulations, respectively. Each group (<em>n</em> = 24) was subdivided into 6 test group (<em>n</em> = 4), where test groups 1, 2, and 3 were treated with 500 mg/kg/BW each of <em>M. parviflora, C. sempervirens</em>, and <em>P. persica</em> nanoparticle/nanogel, either orally or topically, respectively. Test groups 4, 5, and 6, respectively served as positive control, placebo nanoparticles (<em>i.e.</em>, chitosan nanoparticles), and negative control, treated orally or topically with indomethacin (50 mg/kg/BW), chitosan nanoparticle/nanogel alone (500 mg/kg/BW/100 mg/kg/BW), and saline (3 mL).</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div><em>P. persica</em> exudate had the highest TPC of 70.42 ± 0.53 µg of GAE/mg compared to <em>M. parviflora</em> root extract and <em>C. sempervirens</em> exudate with the 30.93 ± 1.65 µg of GAE/mg and 9.99 ± 0.65 µg of GAE/mg, respectively. <em>M. parviflora</em> root extracts had the highest <em>in vitro</em> protein denaturation (92.40%) compared to leaves and stem extracts. <em>P. persica</em> and <em>C. sempervirens</em> nanoparticles had the highest entrapment efficiencies (99.46% and 99.56%). <em>M. parviflora</em> root extract nanoparticles showed the greatest inhibition of oedema (90%) with oral administration, outperforming <em>P. persica</em> and <em>C. sempervirens</em> exudates nanoparticle","PeriodicalId":101013,"journal":{"name":"Pharmacological Research - Modern Chinese Medicine","volume":"17 ","pages":"Article 100685"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-09-12","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145107940","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 : 2025-09-12DOI: 10.1016/j.prmcm.2025.100689
Kingsley Chimaeze Mbara , Poloko Stephen Kheoane , Clemence Tarirai
<div><h3>Introduction</h3><div>Berberine (黄连素, huáng lián sù) is a time-honored remedy in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) that is found in various medicinal herbs and used to treat diabetes mellitus (DM), infections, diarrhea, and dysentery. Berberine, the major active component of <em>Coptidis rhizome</em> (黄连, huanglian), <em>Phellodendri cortex</em> (黄柏, huangbai), and <em>Mahoniae caulis</em> (亮叶十大功劳, Gong Lao Mu), exhibits several pharmacological activities, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, cardioprotective, antineoplastic, antimicrobial, and antidiabetic effects. Antidiabetic effects of berberine are partly attributed to the activation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), which is a key mechanism and a potential treatment strategy for DM and its complications. This review discusses recent studies on the significant roles of berberine in activating AMPK for treating DM and its complications.</div></div><div><h3>Method</h3><div>We have comprehensively searched online databases like Scopus, PubMed, and Google Scholar for articles published in English between 2016 and 2025 using different permutations of these keywords: “Berberine”, “AMPK”, “Diabetes Mellitus”, “Diabetic nephropathy”, “Diabetic neuropathy”, “Diabetic retinopathy”, “Diabetic cardiomyopathy”, “Diabetic hepatic steatosis,” “Diabetic bone diseases”, “Diabetic atherosclerosis”, “Diabetic cognitive dysfunction”, “Diabetic lung injury” and “Other diabetic complications” to compile this narrative review. Out of 1750 initially retrieved articles, 183 were included based on their relevance to treating DM or its complications through the AMPK signaling pathway, pharmacokinetics, and translational potential. Non-English articles and studies not focused on AMPK activation by berberine and that did not address DM and its complications were excluded.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>The literature review found that berberine consistently activates AMPK across various preclinical studies of DM. The activation of AMPK is frequently mediated by pathways involving LKB1 and CAMKKβ. Berberine's activation of AMPK positively impacts glucose uptake, insulin sensitivity, lipid metabolism, oxidative stress, and inflammatory responses. Evidence from animal models demonstrated its efficacy in ameliorating complications such as diabetic nephropathy, neuropathy, retinopathy, cardiomyopathy, hepatic steatosis, bone diseases, atherosclerosis, cognitive dysfunction, and lung injury. Clinical trials reported significant reductions in fasting blood glucose (FBG), HbA1c, and lipid levels, with minimal side effects, at standard doses.</div></div><div><h3>Discussion</h3><div>AMPK activation by berberine plays a central role in cellular energy homeostasis, modulating key processes such as gluconeogenesis, lipogenesis, oxidative stress, and inflammation, which contribute to its therapeutic efficacy in metabolic dysfunction and DM-related complications. However, challenges remain re
{"title":"Targeting AMPK signaling: The therapeutic potential of berberine in diabetes and its complications","authors":"Kingsley Chimaeze Mbara , Poloko Stephen Kheoane , Clemence Tarirai","doi":"10.1016/j.prmcm.2025.100689","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.prmcm.2025.100689","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Introduction</h3><div>Berberine (黄连素, huáng lián sù) is a time-honored remedy in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) that is found in various medicinal herbs and used to treat diabetes mellitus (DM), infections, diarrhea, and dysentery. Berberine, the major active component of <em>Coptidis rhizome</em> (黄连, huanglian), <em>Phellodendri cortex</em> (黄柏, huangbai), and <em>Mahoniae caulis</em> (亮叶十大功劳, Gong Lao Mu), exhibits several pharmacological activities, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, cardioprotective, antineoplastic, antimicrobial, and antidiabetic effects. Antidiabetic effects of berberine are partly attributed to the activation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), which is a key mechanism and a potential treatment strategy for DM and its complications. This review discusses recent studies on the significant roles of berberine in activating AMPK for treating DM and its complications.</div></div><div><h3>Method</h3><div>We have comprehensively searched online databases like Scopus, PubMed, and Google Scholar for articles published in English between 2016 and 2025 using different permutations of these keywords: “Berberine”, “AMPK”, “Diabetes Mellitus”, “Diabetic nephropathy”, “Diabetic neuropathy”, “Diabetic retinopathy”, “Diabetic cardiomyopathy”, “Diabetic hepatic steatosis,” “Diabetic bone diseases”, “Diabetic atherosclerosis”, “Diabetic cognitive dysfunction”, “Diabetic lung injury” and “Other diabetic complications” to compile this narrative review. Out of 1750 initially retrieved articles, 183 were included based on their relevance to treating DM or its complications through the AMPK signaling pathway, pharmacokinetics, and translational potential. Non-English articles and studies not focused on AMPK activation by berberine and that did not address DM and its complications were excluded.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>The literature review found that berberine consistently activates AMPK across various preclinical studies of DM. The activation of AMPK is frequently mediated by pathways involving LKB1 and CAMKKβ. Berberine's activation of AMPK positively impacts glucose uptake, insulin sensitivity, lipid metabolism, oxidative stress, and inflammatory responses. Evidence from animal models demonstrated its efficacy in ameliorating complications such as diabetic nephropathy, neuropathy, retinopathy, cardiomyopathy, hepatic steatosis, bone diseases, atherosclerosis, cognitive dysfunction, and lung injury. Clinical trials reported significant reductions in fasting blood glucose (FBG), HbA1c, and lipid levels, with minimal side effects, at standard doses.</div></div><div><h3>Discussion</h3><div>AMPK activation by berberine plays a central role in cellular energy homeostasis, modulating key processes such as gluconeogenesis, lipogenesis, oxidative stress, and inflammation, which contribute to its therapeutic efficacy in metabolic dysfunction and DM-related complications. However, challenges remain re","PeriodicalId":101013,"journal":{"name":"Pharmacological Research - Modern Chinese Medicine","volume":"17 ","pages":"Article 100689"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-09-12","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145108034","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 : 2025-09-12DOI: 10.1016/j.prmcm.2025.100692
Y. Yan , X. Liu , Y. Sun, H. Wang
Introduction
Gambogic acid (GA), a caged xanthone derived from the resin of Garcinia hanburyi (known as Téng Huáng in traditional Chinese medicine), has been historically utilized in TCM for its properties of “combating toxins, eroding sores, dispelling blood stasis, and resolving masses” in the treatment of abscesses, boils, and refractory skin diseases. In recent decades, GA has gained significant attention as a promising multi-target anticancer agent. This review aims to synthesize current preclinical evidence regarding GA’s antitumor mechanisms, its efficacy in combination therapies, and strategies to overcome its pharmacological limitations.
Methods
A systematic literature search was conducted across electronic databases including PubMed, Web of Science, and CNKI to identify relevant preclinical studies investigating the anticancer mechanisms and delivery strategies of GA. Articles were selected based on their relevance to GA’s molecular targets, efficacy in mono- and combination therapy, and novel formulation approaches.
Results
Preclinical studies demonstrate that GA exerts broad-spectrum antitumor effects through multiple mechanisms: induction of apoptosis via mitochondrial and death receptor pathways; cell cycle arrest at G0/G1 or G2/M phases; inhibition of angiogenesis via HIF-1α/VEGF/MMPs suppression; and reduction of metastasis through downregulation of MMPs. GA modulates key oncogenic pathways including NF-κB, PI3K/Akt/mTOR, and MAPKs. It overcomes drug resistance by targeting P-glycoprotein, Bcr-Abl, and SHH pathways. Notably, GA induces immunogenic pyroptosis via caspase-3/GSDME activation and reprograms tumor-associated macrophages by suppressing extracellular vesicle-mediated miR-21 transfer. Synergistic effects are observed when GA is combined with chemotherapy, targeted agents (e.g., bortezomib, gefitinib), radiotherapy, or photothermal therapy. However, GA’s clinical application is limited by poor solubility and bioavailability. Nanocarrier systems—such as polymeric nanoparticles, protein-based carriers, biomimetic designs, and stimuli-responsive formulations—have significantly improved GA’s stability, tumor targeting, and therapeutic index.
Discussion
GA represents a multi-mechanistic anticancer agent derived from TCM with high translational potential. Despite compelling preclinical results, further well-designed clinical trials are essential to validate its efficacy and safety in humans. The integration of GA with modern drug delivery technologies, especially nanotechnology, provides a promising approach to overcoming its physicochemical limitations. Future research should focus on context-dependent pathway modulation, immune microenvironment interactions, and clinical translation of advanced GA formulations.
黄曲霉酸（GA）是一种笼状的山酮，从黄曲霉的树脂中提取（在中医中称为黄曲霉Huáng），因其具有“抗毒素、腐蚀疮、化瘀、化块”的功效，在中医中一直被用于治疗脓肿、疖子和难治性皮肤病。近几十年来，GA作为一种有前景的多靶点抗癌药物受到了广泛的关注。本综述旨在综合目前关于GA抗肿瘤机制的临床前证据，其在联合治疗中的疗效，以及克服其药理学局限性的策略。方法系统检索PubMed、Web of Science、中国知网等电子数据库，收集GA抗癌机制和给药策略的相关临床前研究。文章的选择是基于它们与GA的分子靶点的相关性，单一和联合治疗的疗效，以及新的配方方法。结果临床前期研究表明，GA可通过多种机制发挥广谱抗肿瘤作用：通过线粒体和死亡受体途径诱导细胞凋亡；细胞周期阻滞于G0/G1或G2/M期；通过抑制HIF-1α/VEGF/MMPs抑制血管生成；并通过下调MMPs来减少转移。GA调节NF-κB、PI3K/Akt/mTOR和MAPKs等关键的致癌途径。它通过靶向p -糖蛋白、Bcr-Abl和SHH通路来克服耐药性。值得注意的是，GA通过caspase-3/GSDME激活诱导免疫原性焦亡，并通过抑制细胞外囊泡介导的miR-21转移对肿瘤相关巨噬细胞进行重编程。当GA与化疗、靶向药物（如硼替佐米、吉非替尼）、放疗或光热疗法联合使用时，可以观察到协同效应。然而，GA的临床应用受到溶解度和生物利用度差的限制。纳米载体系统，如聚合纳米颗粒、蛋白质载体、仿生设计和刺激反应配方，显著提高了GA的稳定性、肿瘤靶向性和治疗指数。ga是一种来自中药的多机制抗癌药物，具有很高的转化潜力。尽管有令人信服的临床前结果，但进一步精心设计的临床试验对于验证其在人体中的有效性和安全性至关重要。遗传基因与现代药物传递技术，特别是纳米技术的结合，为克服其物理化学局限性提供了一条有前途的途径。未来的研究应集中在上下文依赖性通路调节、免疫微环境相互作用和高级GA配方的临床翻译上。
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Pub Date : 2025-09-11DOI: 10.1016/j.prmcm.2025.100690
Kiren Mustafa , Noreen Akhtar , Hina Khalid , Madiha Younas , Muhammad Tariq Saeed , Yuanda Song , Zhihe Li , Hassan Mohamed
Background
Ficus carica (无花果 wúhuāguǒ) is valued in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and nutrition for its rich phytochemical content. Our prior research showed a crude fig extract (FLA) selectively fought liver cancer cells (HepG2) in vitro while sparing normal cells.
Purpose
We aimed to isolate an active compound from FLA and analyze the potent bioactivities, particularly anticancer potential, through in vitro and computational studies.
Method
An innovative strategy combined fractionation by vacuum liquid chromatography (VLC) on silica gel (using six non-polar to polar solvent gradients) with thin layer chromatography (TLC) and bioactivity screening on liver (HepG2) and gastric (SGC-7901) cancer cell lines, and antimicrobial assay. The active Fraction 2 (Fr-2) was repeatedly sub-fractionated using Sephadex LH-20 column chromatography and TLC to isolate psoralen. Its mechanism of action against key cancer markers was evaluated via RT-qPCR, molecular docking, and ADMET pharmacokinetic analysis, with silymarin as a comparator.
Results
Fractionation of FLA yielded Fr- 2 (Hexane: Ethyl acetate, 50:50) with the IC50 (mg/mL) against HepG2 (0.31 ± 0.1) and SGC-7901 (0.124 ± 0.05) among the six tested fractions. It also exhibited antimicrobial activity, showing maximum inhibition zones (mm) against Aspergillus flavus FL (18± 0.4 mm), Penicillium chrysogenum FL (20 ± 0.7 mm), and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (17 ± 0.8 mm). Sub-fractionation of Fr- 2 led to the identification of psoralen, which decreased the genetic expression of tumor suppressor Tp53, anti-apoptotic (Bcl2) and Cell cycle kinases (CDK1 and CDK5). Molecular interaction via molecular docking against critical cancer regulators: Tp53, oncoproteins MDM2 and Bcl2, and CDK1/CDK5 also revealed the strong binding affinity of Psoralen. Psoralen demonstrates a novel mechanism of action by dual targeting of the MDM2-p53 axis: it binds p53′s N-TAD (Arg23, -8.8 kcal/mol) to reduce ubiquitination, while competitively inhibiting MDM2 (-5.8 kcal/mol) to stabilize Tp53 and induce apoptosis. Comparative ADMET analysis revealed psoralen's superior water solubility and oral bioavailability (96.67 % absorption) versus silymarin.
Conclusion
The active Fr-2, featuring psoralen, demonstrates broad antimicrobial and anticancer activity by potentially inhibiting the MDM2-p53 pathway to induce apoptosis, and it exhibits a superior ADMET profile compared to silymarin.
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Pub Date : 2025-09-10DOI: 10.1016/j.prmcm.2025.100684
Shayan Chen , Zhihuang Wu , Wendie Yu , Di Zou , Jiongtang Lu
Background
Qingyi Decoction (QYD), a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) formulation derived from Dachaihu Decoction, is used to treat severe acute pancreatitis (SAP). While QYD's components, rhubarb and bupleurum, possess known anti-fibrotic properties, their mechanisms in SAP remain unclear. This study investigated QYD's anti-fibrotic effects and underlying mechanisms in a lipopolysaccharide (LPS)- and cerulein-induced mouse model of SAP.
Methods
SAP was induced in mice by intraperitoneal injection of cerulein and LPS. The QYD+SAP group received oral administration of QYD at twice the clinical dosage. Following modeling and QYD treatment, pancreatic tissues were harvested for examination of fibrotic parameters using histological methods. Additionally, the anti-fibrogenic effects of QYD on pancreatic tissue were investigated using Western blotting and laser scanning confocal microscopy.
Results
In SAP mice, histological examination of pancreatic tissues revealed significant tissue damage. However, QYD treatment ameliorated the histological severity of SAP. Furthermore, QYD decreased the expression of pancreatic fibrosis and PSC activation markers, including α-SMA, collagen, and fibronectin, while enhancing pancreatic acinar cell survival and restoring exocrine pancreatic function. Mechanistically, QYD treatment inhibited the activation of JNK, ERK, and p38 MAPK pathways, as well as prevented IκBα degradation in pancreatic tissues.
Conclusion
This study demonstrates the presence of mild pancreatic fibrosis in SAP and reveals QYD's anti-fibrotic effects through the inhibition of JNK, ERK, and p38 MAPK signaling pathways and the prevention of IκBα degradation.
清胰汤（QYD）是一种由大柴胡汤衍生而来的中药制剂，用于治疗严重急性胰腺炎（SAP）。虽然QYD的成分，大黄和柴胡，具有已知的抗纤维化特性，但它们在SAP中的机制尚不清楚。本研究在脂多糖（LPS）和蓝蛋白诱导的小鼠sap模型中探讨了清芪多糖的抗纤维化作用及其机制。方法通过腹腔注射蓝蛋白和LPS诱导小鼠sap。芪黄酮+SAP组口服芪黄酮，剂量为临床剂量的2倍。在建模和QYD治疗后，采集胰腺组织，用组织学方法检查纤维化参数。此外，采用Western blotting和激光扫描共聚焦显微镜观察芪黄酮对胰腺组织的抗纤维化作用。结果SAP小鼠胰腺组织组织学检查显示明显的组织损伤。然而，QYD治疗改善了SAP的组织学严重程度。此外，QYD降低了胰腺纤维化和PSC激活标志物（包括α-SMA、胶原和纤维连接蛋白）的表达，同时提高了胰腺腺泡细胞的存活率，恢复了外分泌胰腺功能。在机制上，QYD治疗抑制JNK、ERK和p38 MAPK通路的激活，并阻止胰腺组织中i - κ b α的降解。结论本研究证实SAP患者存在轻度胰腺纤维化，并揭示清芪多糖通过抑制JNK、ERK、p38 MAPK信号通路及抑制i- κ b α降解而具有抗纤维化作用。
{"title":"Qingyi decoction modulates fibrotic pathways in severe acute pancreatitis: A histological and molecular study","authors":"Shayan Chen , Zhihuang Wu , Wendie Yu , Di Zou , Jiongtang Lu","doi":"10.1016/j.prmcm.2025.100684","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.prmcm.2025.100684","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Qingyi Decoction (QYD), a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) formulation derived from Dachaihu Decoction, is used to treat severe acute pancreatitis (SAP). While QYD's components, <em>rhubarb</em> and <em>bupleurum</em>, possess known anti-fibrotic properties, their mechanisms in SAP remain unclear. This study investigated QYD's anti-fibrotic effects and underlying mechanisms in a lipopolysaccharide (LPS)- and cerulein-induced mouse model of SAP.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>SAP was induced in mice by intraperitoneal injection of cerulein and LPS. The QYD+SAP group received oral administration of QYD at twice the clinical dosage. Following modeling and QYD treatment, pancreatic tissues were harvested for examination of fibrotic parameters using histological methods. Additionally, the anti-fibrogenic effects of QYD on pancreatic tissue were investigated using Western blotting and laser scanning confocal microscopy.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>In SAP mice, histological examination of pancreatic tissues revealed significant tissue damage. However, QYD treatment ameliorated the histological severity of SAP. Furthermore, QYD decreased the expression of pancreatic fibrosis and PSC activation markers, including α-SMA, collagen, and fibronectin, while enhancing pancreatic acinar cell survival and restoring exocrine pancreatic function. Mechanistically, QYD treatment inhibited the activation of JNK, ERK, and p38 MAPK pathways, as well as prevented IκBα degradation in pancreatic tissues.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>This study demonstrates the presence of mild pancreatic fibrosis in SAP and reveals QYD's anti-fibrotic effects through the inhibition of JNK, ERK, and p38 MAPK signaling pathways and the prevention of IκBα degradation.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":101013,"journal":{"name":"Pharmacological Research - Modern Chinese Medicine","volume":"17 ","pages":"Article 100684"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-09-10","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145107939","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 : 2025-09-08DOI: 10.1016/j.prmcm.2025.100683
Jingya Yang , Yuxiao Li , Yurou Li , Menghuan Song , Hao Hu , Carolina Oi Lam Ung
Background
Cancer-related fatigue (CRF) is a persistent condition that significantly impacts the health of lung oncology patients. While the conventional and non-pharmacological therapy for CRF remain uncertain, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has become a trending option. This study aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of TCM for CRF in lung cancer from randomized controlled trials (RCTs).
Methods
According to PRISMA guidelines, seven databases were searched up to 30 June 2024. Only TCM interventions were eligible in this review. Meta-analysis and network meta-analysis (NMA) were designed to pool outcomes results and compared various TCM interventions. The CONSORT-CHM and Risk of Bias tool were used to evaluate the quality and potential biases.
Results
This review included 41 RCTs. Compared with the routine treatment (RT), TCM + RT had significant improved efficacy rate (Risk Ratio (RR) = 1.333, 95 % Confidence Intervals (CI): 1.227 to 1.448, P < 0.01), Karnofsky Performance Status scores (KPS) (Mean Difference (MD) = 7.182, 95 % CI: 4.160 to 10.203, P < 0.01) and Quality of Life Questionnaires-C30 scores (QLQ-30) (MD = 9.186, 95 % CI: 6.707 to 11.665, P < 0.01). Also, TCM + RT showed significance in reducing Piper Fatigue Scale scores (PFS) (MD = -1.145, 95 % CI: -1.452 to -0.838, P < 0.01), Cancer-Fatigue Scale scores (MD = -6.411; 95 %CI: -8.837 to -3.985; P < 0.01) and Brief Fatigue Inventory scores (MD = -1.687; 95 %CI: -2.350 to -1.023; P < 0.01). From NMA results, Jianpi Yiqi Huatan Formula + RT was the best for improving efficacy rate, Kangai Injection + RT excelled in reducing PFS scores and enhancing QLQ-C30 scores, and Aidi Injection + RT was the most effective in elevating KPS scores. No serious adverse events were reported. However, poor RCTs quality and uncertain bias risk were common in this study.
Conclusion
Our study showed that TCM was effective and safe for CRF in lung cancer. However, given the poor quality and uncertain risk of bias, the results should be interpreted cautiously. More standardized RCTs are needed in the future.
{"title":"Assessing the efficacy and safety of traditional Chinese medicine for cancer-related fatigue in lung cancer patients: A comprehensive meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials","authors":"Jingya Yang , Yuxiao Li , Yurou Li , Menghuan Song , Hao Hu , Carolina Oi Lam Ung","doi":"10.1016/j.prmcm.2025.100683","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.prmcm.2025.100683","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Cancer-related fatigue (CRF) is a persistent condition that significantly impacts the health of lung oncology patients. While the conventional and non-pharmacological therapy for CRF remain uncertain, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has become a trending option. This study aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of TCM for CRF in lung cancer from randomized controlled trials (RCTs).</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>According to PRISMA guidelines, seven databases were searched up to 30 June 2024. Only TCM interventions were eligible in this review. Meta-analysis and network meta-analysis (NMA) were designed to pool outcomes results and compared various TCM interventions. The CONSORT-CHM and Risk of Bias tool were used to evaluate the quality and potential biases.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>This review included 41 RCTs. Compared with the routine treatment (RT), TCM + RT had significant improved efficacy rate (Risk Ratio (RR) = 1.333, 95 % Confidence Intervals (CI): 1.227 to 1.448, <em>P</em> < 0.01), Karnofsky Performance Status scores (KPS) (Mean Difference (MD) = 7.182, 95 % CI: 4.160 to 10.203, <em>P</em> < 0.01) and Quality of Life Questionnaires-C30 scores (QLQ-30) (MD = 9.186, 95 % CI: 6.707 to 11.665, <em>P</em> < 0.01). Also, TCM + RT showed significance in reducing Piper Fatigue Scale scores (PFS) (MD = -1.145, 95 % CI: -1.452 to -0.838, <em>P</em> < 0.01), Cancer-Fatigue Scale scores (MD = -6.411; 95 %CI: -8.837 to -3.985; <em>P</em> < 0.01) and Brief Fatigue Inventory scores (MD = -1.687; 95 %CI: -2.350 to -1.023; <em>P</em> < 0.01). From NMA results, Jianpi Yiqi Huatan Formula + RT was the best for improving efficacy rate, Kangai Injection + RT excelled in reducing PFS scores and enhancing QLQ-C30 scores, and Aidi Injection + RT was the most effective in elevating KPS scores. No serious adverse events were reported. However, poor RCTs quality and uncertain bias risk were common in this study.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>Our study showed that TCM was effective and safe for CRF in lung cancer. However, given the poor quality and uncertain risk of bias, the results should be interpreted cautiously. More standardized RCTs are needed in the future.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":101013,"journal":{"name":"Pharmacological Research - Modern Chinese Medicine","volume":"17 ","pages":"Article 100683"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-09-08","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145050734","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 : 2025-09-06DOI: 10.1016/j.prmcm.2025.100681
James O. Fajemiroye
{"title":"Re: Progress in the application of AI in the standardization of traditional Chinese medicine: Discussion and prospects","authors":"James O. Fajemiroye","doi":"10.1016/j.prmcm.2025.100681","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.prmcm.2025.100681","url":null,"abstract":"","PeriodicalId":101013,"journal":{"name":"Pharmacological Research - Modern Chinese Medicine","volume":"17 ","pages":"Article 100681"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-09-06","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145050735","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 : 2025-09-01DOI: 10.1016/j.prmcm.2025.100670
Haolat Yusuf , Abdulhakeem Binhambali , Mutiu Olawale Rahmon , Ridwan Bolaji Yusuf , Suleiman Garba Salihu , Barnabas Jarumi Musa
<div><h3>Introduction</h3><div>Trypanosomiasis is a debilitating parasitic disease affecting both humans and animals, leading to substantial economic losses in the livestock sector due to reduced productivity and increased mortality. As resistance to conventional drugs escalates, interest in plant-based alternatives has grown. <em>Jatropha curcas</em> (JC), widely used in traditional medicine systems including Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), has demonstrated promising anti-trypanosomal activity. It is known as mǎfēng shù (麻风树) or “Leprosy Tree’’ in TCM and its varies potential has been widely described in various studies. However, this study specifically evaluated the therapeutic potential of various JC aqueous extracts on weight, body temperature, and parasitaemia levels in <em>Trypanosoma congolense</em>-infected mice.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>Ninety mice were randomly assigned to 8 (groups 4–8 have 3 subgroups) experimental groups. Mice in all groups, except the control, were inoculated with <em>Trypanosoma congolense</em> (TC) and treated with Diminazene aceturate (DA) and varying doses of aqueous, methanol, and solvent fractions of JC extracts. Parasitaemia was monitored daily, and blood samples were collected for hematological analysis. Tissue (spleen and liver) were accessed for changes in microscopic examination.</div></div><div><h3>Result</h3><div>The results indicated no statistically significant weight changes between treatment groups (<em>p</em> > 0.05), although slight fluctuations in weight were observed across groups. Similarly, the treatment had minimal effects on body temperature, with no significant differences observed across groups (<em>p</em> > 0.05). On parasitaemia, aqueous extracts at higher doses (of 80 and 40 mg/kg) significantly reduced parasitaemia (<em>p</em> < 0.05) compared to controls, particularly between 2–6 days. Methanol and ethyl acetate extracts also showed significant parasitaemia reduction (<em>p</em> < 0.05), with the 15 mg/kg methanol dose demonstrating the highest efficacy. However, butanol and hexane extracts did not significantly reduce parasitaemia (<em>p</em> > 0.05) and many of the tissues showed different changes on histological analysis.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>This study demonstrates that JC extracts, particularly aqueous, methanol, and ethyl acetate, exhibit significant anti-trypanosomal activity, by reducing parasitaemia levels in infected mice, likely due to the presence of bioactive phytochemicals such as alkaloids, flavonoids, and saponins. Although the extracts did not completely eliminate the parasites like common drug, however they contributed to improvements in weight, packed cell volume (PCV), red blood cell counts and histological changes, proving their potential therapeutic effects when used appropriately. Also, toxicity concerns, evidenced by the observed histology changes in higher-dose groups, warrant further investigation. The study s
{"title":"Trypanocidal potentials of Jatropha curcas L. 1753 leaf extracts and fractions in vivo","authors":"Haolat Yusuf , Abdulhakeem Binhambali , Mutiu Olawale Rahmon , Ridwan Bolaji Yusuf , Suleiman Garba Salihu , Barnabas Jarumi Musa","doi":"10.1016/j.prmcm.2025.100670","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.prmcm.2025.100670","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Introduction</h3><div>Trypanosomiasis is a debilitating parasitic disease affecting both humans and animals, leading to substantial economic losses in the livestock sector due to reduced productivity and increased mortality. As resistance to conventional drugs escalates, interest in plant-based alternatives has grown. <em>Jatropha curcas</em> (JC), widely used in traditional medicine systems including Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), has demonstrated promising anti-trypanosomal activity. It is known as mǎfēng shù (麻风树) or “Leprosy Tree’’ in TCM and its varies potential has been widely described in various studies. However, this study specifically evaluated the therapeutic potential of various JC aqueous extracts on weight, body temperature, and parasitaemia levels in <em>Trypanosoma congolense</em>-infected mice.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>Ninety mice were randomly assigned to 8 (groups 4–8 have 3 subgroups) experimental groups. Mice in all groups, except the control, were inoculated with <em>Trypanosoma congolense</em> (TC) and treated with Diminazene aceturate (DA) and varying doses of aqueous, methanol, and solvent fractions of JC extracts. Parasitaemia was monitored daily, and blood samples were collected for hematological analysis. Tissue (spleen and liver) were accessed for changes in microscopic examination.</div></div><div><h3>Result</h3><div>The results indicated no statistically significant weight changes between treatment groups (<em>p</em> > 0.05), although slight fluctuations in weight were observed across groups. Similarly, the treatment had minimal effects on body temperature, with no significant differences observed across groups (<em>p</em> > 0.05). On parasitaemia, aqueous extracts at higher doses (of 80 and 40 mg/kg) significantly reduced parasitaemia (<em>p</em> < 0.05) compared to controls, particularly between 2–6 days. Methanol and ethyl acetate extracts also showed significant parasitaemia reduction (<em>p</em> < 0.05), with the 15 mg/kg methanol dose demonstrating the highest efficacy. However, butanol and hexane extracts did not significantly reduce parasitaemia (<em>p</em> > 0.05) and many of the tissues showed different changes on histological analysis.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>This study demonstrates that JC extracts, particularly aqueous, methanol, and ethyl acetate, exhibit significant anti-trypanosomal activity, by reducing parasitaemia levels in infected mice, likely due to the presence of bioactive phytochemicals such as alkaloids, flavonoids, and saponins. Although the extracts did not completely eliminate the parasites like common drug, however they contributed to improvements in weight, packed cell volume (PCV), red blood cell counts and histological changes, proving their potential therapeutic effects when used appropriately. Also, toxicity concerns, evidenced by the observed histology changes in higher-dose groups, warrant further investigation. The study s","PeriodicalId":101013,"journal":{"name":"Pharmacological Research - Modern Chinese Medicine","volume":"16 ","pages":"Article 100670"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-09-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144988225","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 : 2025-09-01DOI: 10.1016/j.prmcm.2025.100679
Prashant N. Amale , Rajesh R. Ugale , Ashish P. Bharne , Sapan K. Shah , Shilpa A. Deshpande , Kartik T. Nakhate
Introduction
Plumbagin (PL), a natural phytochemical obtained from Plumbago zeylanica roots, known as Bai Hua Dan in traditional Chinese medicine, has become a thriving area of research. Emerging evidence suggests that PL exhibits analgesic effects in various rodent pain models. Therefore, exploring the mechanisms underlying PL's central antinociceptive effect is interesting. Despite extensive research into alternative therapies, chronic neuropathic pain (NP) remains a persistent clinical challenge. We investigated the role of spinal astrogliosis and hippocampal opioid receptors in the antinociceptive action of PL in rats with chronic constriction injury (CCI) of sciatic nerve-induced NP.
Methods
A CCI of the sciatic nerve was performed to induce NP in rats. PL (1–8 µg/rat, intracerebroventricular-4 V) and opioid antagonist naloxone (1–8 µg/rat, intra-hippocampal cornu ammonis-1 (CA1) were administered per se or in combination, followed by a thermal-mechanical-cold sensitivity test. Using a molecular docking study, the affinity of PL at opioidergic receptors was investigated. Immunohistochemistry of glial-fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) was used to evaluate the effect of PL on astrogliosis in the spinal dorsal horn (SDH).
Results
Treatment with PL showed a dose-dependent antinociceptive effect. Interestingly, pretreatment with naloxone attenuated the antinociceptive effect of PL. Furthermore, PL reduced the NP-triggered integrated density of GFAP+ve astrocytes in the SDH. The in-silico binding revealed a potent binding of PL to kappa, delta-, and mu-opioid receptors in the order of binding, comparable to morphine.
Conclusion
Our findings suggest that PL possibly ameliorates NP by suppressing astroglial activation in the SDH and inhibiting nociceptive processing in the hippocampal CA1 region via opioid receptors.
{"title":"Plumbagin attenuates neuropathic pain via inhibition of spinal astrogliosis and modulation of hippocampal CA1 opioidergic receptors","authors":"Prashant N. Amale , Rajesh R. Ugale , Ashish P. Bharne , Sapan K. Shah , Shilpa A. Deshpande , Kartik T. Nakhate","doi":"10.1016/j.prmcm.2025.100679","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.prmcm.2025.100679","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Introduction</h3><div>Plumbagin (PL), a natural phytochemical obtained from <em>Plumbago zeylanica</em> roots, known as <em>Bai Hua Dan in</em> traditional Chinese medicine, has become a thriving area of research. Emerging evidence suggests that PL exhibits analgesic effects in various rodent pain models. Therefore, exploring the mechanisms underlying PL's central antinociceptive effect is interesting. Despite extensive research into alternative therapies, chronic neuropathic pain (NP) remains a persistent clinical challenge. We investigated the role of spinal astrogliosis and hippocampal opioid receptors in the antinociceptive action of PL in rats with chronic constriction injury (CCI) of sciatic nerve-induced NP.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>A CCI of the sciatic nerve was performed to induce NP in rats. PL (1–8 µg/rat, intracerebroventricular-4 V) and opioid antagonist naloxone (1–8 µg/rat, intra-hippocampal cornu ammonis-1 (CA<sub>1</sub>) were administered <em>per se</em> or in combination, followed by a thermal-mechanical-cold sensitivity test. Using a molecular docking study, the affinity of PL at opioidergic receptors was investigated. Immunohistochemistry of glial-fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) was used to evaluate the effect of PL on astrogliosis in the spinal dorsal horn (SDH).</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Treatment with PL showed a dose-dependent antinociceptive effect. Interestingly, pretreatment with naloxone attenuated the antinociceptive effect of PL. Furthermore, PL reduced the NP-triggered integrated density of GFAP+ve astrocytes in the SDH. The <em>in-silico</em> binding revealed a potent binding of PL to kappa, delta-, and mu-opioid receptors in the order of binding, comparable to morphine.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>Our findings suggest that PL possibly ameliorates NP by suppressing astroglial activation in the SDH and inhibiting nociceptive processing in the hippocampal CA<sub>1</sub> region via opioid receptors.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":101013,"journal":{"name":"Pharmacological Research - Modern Chinese Medicine","volume":"16 ","pages":"Article 100679"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-09-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144931968","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 : 2025-09-01DOI: 10.1016/j.prmcm.2025.100677
Md Murad , Md. Monirul Islam , Nusrat Jahan Suchana , Md. Mamun Or Rashid , Firoz Ahmed , Fahad Hussain
Introduction
Obesity, marked by excessive adipose tissue accumulation and associated metabolic dysfunctions, remains a major global health concern. Rubi fructus (Chinese name: Fu-pen-zi), the fruit of plants belonging to the Rubus genus, has been traditionally used in Chinese medicine. This study investigates the anti-obesity effects of Rubi fructus (RF) extract and Atorvastatin (AS), both individually and in combination, using a high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obese mouse model. Materials & methods: Twenty-five male Swiss albino mice were randomly assigned to five groups (normal diet, HFD, HFD+RF, HFD+RF+AS, HFD+AS) and treated over a six-week period. The RF and AS were administered at 400 and 3 mg/kg body weight. Post-treatment evaluations included measurements of body weight, abdominal fat mass, serum lipid profiles, hepatic enzyme levels, several organ weights, and expression of adipogenic and inflammatory genes.
Results
Both RF and AS monotherapies significantly (p < 0.05) reduced body weight gain, abdominal adiposity, organ weight, serum triglycerides, total cholesterol, and LDL-C levels, while increasing HDL-C levels. Notably, combined administration of RF and AS produced more substantial improvements across all measured parameters. Liver function was also markedly improved, as evidenced by significant reductions in alkaline phosphatase and aspartate aminotransferase levels. Gene expression analysis demonstrated downregulation of TNF-α, MCP-1, and PPAR-γ, along with upregulation of GLUT-4 in adipose tissue, indicating attenuated inflammation and enhanced insulin sensitivity.
Conclusion
This study provides the first evidence for the additive anti-obesity effects of RF and AS, suggesting a promising new combination therapy for the management of obesity and its metabolic sequelae.
{"title":"Modulating obesity-related metabolic dysfunction: Additive effects of Rubi fructus extract and statin in mice","authors":"Md Murad , Md. Monirul Islam , Nusrat Jahan Suchana , Md. Mamun Or Rashid , Firoz Ahmed , Fahad Hussain","doi":"10.1016/j.prmcm.2025.100677","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.prmcm.2025.100677","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Introduction</h3><div>Obesity, marked by excessive adipose tissue accumulation and associated metabolic dysfunctions, remains a major global health concern. <em>Rubi fructus</em> (Chinese name: Fu-pen-zi), the fruit of plants belonging to the Rubus genus, has been traditionally used in Chinese medicine. This study investigates the anti-obesity effects of <em>Rubi fructus</em> (RF) extract and Atorvastatin (AS), both individually and in combination, using a high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obese mouse model. Materials & methods: Twenty-five male Swiss albino mice were randomly assigned to five groups (normal diet, HFD, HFD+RF, HFD+RF+AS, HFD+AS) and treated over a six-week period. The RF and AS were administered at 400 and 3 mg/kg body weight. Post-treatment evaluations included measurements of body weight, abdominal fat mass, serum lipid profiles, hepatic enzyme levels, several organ weights, and expression of adipogenic and inflammatory genes.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Both RF and AS monotherapies significantly (<em>p</em> < 0.05) reduced body weight gain, abdominal adiposity, organ weight, serum triglycerides, total cholesterol, and LDL-C levels, while increasing HDL-C levels. Notably, combined administration of RF and AS produced more substantial improvements across all measured parameters. Liver function was also markedly improved, as evidenced by significant reductions in alkaline phosphatase and aspartate aminotransferase levels. Gene expression analysis demonstrated downregulation of TNF-α, MCP-1, and PPAR-γ, along with upregulation of GLUT-4 in adipose tissue, indicating attenuated inflammation and enhanced insulin sensitivity.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>This study provides the first evidence for the additive anti-obesity effects of RF and AS, suggesting a promising new combination therapy for the management of obesity and its metabolic sequelae.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":101013,"journal":{"name":"Pharmacological Research - Modern Chinese Medicine","volume":"16 ","pages":"Article 100677"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-09-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144931969","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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