Herbal Compound Preparation Research Articles

Shenqi Sanjie Granules induce Hmox1-mediated ferroptosis to inhibit colorectal cancer

BackgroundBecause adverse reactions or drug resistance are often found after current chemotherapies for metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC), new treatments are still in demand. Shenqi Sanjie Granules (SSG), an antitumor compound preparation of traditional Chinese medicine, has been recognized for its ability in clinical practice of oncotherapy. Nevertheless, the precise effects of SSG in colorectal cancer (CRC) and underlying mechanisms through which SSG inhibits CRC remain uncertain. The current study aimed to evaluate the anti-CRC activity of the Chinese herbal compound preparation SSG and investigate the underlying mechanisms of action. Materials and methodsInitially, nine distinct cancer cell lines, including five CRC cell lines, one breast cancer cell line, two lung adenocarcinoma cell lines and one cervical cancer cell line, were used to evaluate the antitumor activity of SSG, and the mouse CRC cell line CT26 were used for further research. In vitro experiments utilizing diverse assays were conducted to assess the inhibitory effects of the SSG on CT26. Furthermore, subcutaneous syngeneic mouse model and AOM (azoxymethane)/DSS (dextran sodium sulfate) induced in-situ colitis-related mouse CRC model were used to evaluate the antitumor potential and biotoxicity of SSG in vivo. To elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms, transcriptome sequencing and network pharmacology analysis were performed. Meanwhile, verification is carried out with quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) and flow cytometry (FCM) analysis. ResultsOur in vitro inhibition study showed that SSG could effectively inhibit CRC cell line CT26 growth and metastasis, and induce cell death. Neither of apoptosis inhibitor, necroptosis inhibitor, ferroptosis inhibitor, but the combination of the three diminished SSG-induced cell death, suggesting that multiple cell death pathways were involved. Both the syngeneic CRC model and the in-situ CRC model indicated SSG inhibited CRC in vivo with few toxic side effects. Further mechanistic study suggested SSG treatment activated the ferroptosis pathway, particularly mediated by Hmox1, which was upregulated scores of times. Network pharmacology analysis indicated that the active ingredients of SSG, including Quercetin, Luteolin and Kaempferol were potential components directly upregulated Hmox1 expression. ConclusionsCollectively, our findings indicate that the administration of SSG has the potential to inhibit CRC both in vitro and in vivo. The mechanism by which this compound preparation exerts its action is, at least partly, the induction of ferroptosis through upregulating Hmox-1 by its three active ingredients Quercetin, Luteolin and Kaempferol.

Network pharmacology-based exploration of molecular mechanisms underlying therapeutic effects of Jianpi Huatan Quyu recipe on chronic heart failure with spleen Qi deficiency syndrome.

Chronic heart failure is a complex clinical syndrome. The Chinese herbal compound preparation Jianpi Huatan Quyu recipe has been used to treat chronic heart failure; however, the underlying molecular mechanism is still not clear. To identify the effective active ingredients of Jianpi Huatan Quyu recipe and explore its molecular mechanism in the treatment of chronic heart failure. The effective active ingredients of eight herbs composing Jianpi Huatan Quyu recipe were identified using the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology Database and Analysis Platform. The target genes of chronic heart failure were searched in the Genecards database. The target proteins of active ingredients were mapped to chronic heart failure target genes to obtain the common drug-disease targets, which were then used to construct a key chemical component-target network using Cytoscape 3.7.2 software. The protein-protein interaction network was constructed using the String database. Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment analyses were performed through the Metascape database. Finally, our previously published relevant articles were searched to verify the results obtained via network pharmacology. A total of 227 effective active ingredients for Jianpi Huatan Quyu recipe were identified, of which quercetin, kaempferol, 7-methoxy-2-methyl isoflavone, formononetin, and isorhamnetin may be key active ingredients and involved in the therapeutic effects of TCM by acting on STAT3, MAPK3, AKT1, JUN, MAPK1, TP53, TNF, HSP90AA1, p65, MAPK8, MAPK14, IL6, EGFR, EDN1, FOS, and other proteins. The pathways identified by KEGG enrichment analysis include pathways in cancer, IL-17 signaling pathway, PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, HIF-1 signaling pathway, calcium signaling pathway, cAMP signaling pathway, NF-kappaB signaling pathway, AMPK signaling pathway, etc. Previous studies on Jianpi Huatan Quyu recipe suggested that this Chinese compound preparation can regulate the TNF-α, IL-6, MAPK, cAMP, and AMPK pathways to affect the mitochondrial structure of myocardial cells, oxidative stress, and energy metabolism, thus achieving the therapeutic effects on chronic heart failure. The Chinese medicine compound preparation Jianpi Huatan Quyu recipe exerts therapeutic effects on chronic heart failure possibly by influencing the mitochondrial structure of cardiomyocytes, oxidative stress, energy metabolism, and other processes. Future studies are warranted to investigate the role of the IL-17 signaling pathway, PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, HIF-1 signaling pathway, and other pathways in mediating the therapeutic effects of Jianpi Huatan Quyu recipe on chronic heart failure.

Mechanistic study on the improvement of immune inflammation in ankylosing spondylitis through regulation of the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway by Huangqin Qingre Chubi capsules

AbstractObjectiveThis study aims to investigate the potential mechanisms by which the Hangqin Qingrechubi capsule (HQC) improves immunoinflammation in Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS).MethodsThe study combines systemic network pharmacology to predict, identify, and validate the core targets of HQC and AS. We conducted molecular docking to validate the interaction between the key active ingredients of HQC and the selected core targets associated with the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway, and employed data mining to delve deeper into the correlation between HQC usage and the improvement of clinical immunoinflammatory indicators. Additionally, AS‐PBMCs and FLS co‐culture cell models will be employed to further explore the mechanism of action of HQC in improving AS immune inflammation.ResultsBased on network pharmacology core target prediction, TNF‐α, IL‐17A, IL‐6, IL‐10, and AKT1 were identified as core targets, and KEGG enrichment analysis suggested that PI3K/AKT, IL‐17, and TNF might be key signaling pathways of HQC in improving immune inflammation in AS. The results of molecular docking demonstrated a favorable binding energy between the selected AKT1 core target and the key active components of HQC, including baicalin, baicalein, and quercetin. Clinical data mining revealed a significant correlation between HQC use and improvement in clinical immunoinflammatory indexes, such as ESR, CRP, IgA, IgM, IgG, C3, C4, patient perception scores (VAS, SAS, SDS), and (PF, SF) scores. In vitro cellular experiments further supported the significant ability of HQC to inhibit PI3K/AKT signaling pathway activation.ConclusionHQC, as an herbal compound preparation, exhibits anti‐inflammatory effects through multiple components and targets, making it a potential treatment option for AS. Furthermore, an underlying mechanism of action of HQC is its ability to ameliorate immune inflammation in AS patients by inhibiting the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway.

Complex components of Shengmai formula interact with organic cation transporter 2 (OCT2) in MDCK cells.

Shengmai formula (SMF) is a well-known Chinese herbal compound preparation, which is utilized extensively for the treatment of myocardial ischemia, arrhythmia and other life-threatening conditions. Our previous researches have shown that some of the active ingredients in SMF can interact with organic anion transport polypeptide 1B1 (OATP1B1), breast cancer resistance protein (BCRP) and organic anion transporter 1 (OAT1), etc. Organic cation transporter 2 (OCT2) is a highly expressed uptake transporter in the kidney, and its interaction with the major active components in SMF remains unclear. We purposed to explore OCT2-mediated interactions and compatibility mechanisms of the main active compounds in SMF. Fifteen active ingredients of SMF, including ginsenoside Rb1, Rd, Re, Rg1, Rf, Ro and Rc, methylophiopogonanone A and B, ophiopogonin D and D', schizandrin A and B, schizandrol A and B, were selected to investigate OCT2-mediated interactions in Madin-Darby cacine kidney (MDCK) cells stably expressing OCT2. Among the above 15 main active components, only ginsenosides Rd, Re and schizandrin B could significantly inhibit the uptake of 4-(4-(dimethylamino)styryl)-N-methyl pyridiniumiodide (ASP+), a classical substrate of OCT2. Ginsenoside Rb1 and methylophiopogonanone A can be transported by MDCK-OCT2 cells, and their uptake was significantly reduced when OCT2 inhibitor decynium-22 was added. Ginsenoside Rd could remarkably reduce the uptake of methylophiopogonanone A and ginsenoside Rb1 by OCT2, ginsenoside Re only decreased the uptake of ginsenoside Rb1, while schizandrin B had no effect on the uptake of both. OCT2 mediates the interaction of the major active components in SMF. Ginsenosides Rd, Re and schizandrin B are the potential inhibitors of OCT2, while ginsenosides Rb1 and methylophiopogonanone A are the potential substrates of OCT2. There is an OCT2-mediated compatibility mechanism among these active ingredients of SMF.

Nuanxinkang prevents the development of myocardial infarction-induced chronic heart failure by promoting PINK1/Parkin-mediated mitophagy

BackgroundMitochondrial dysfunction is an important pathological feature of chronic heart failure (CHF). Regulation of mitophagy can effectively maintain mitochondrial homeostasis and energy metabolism, thereby inhibiting the development of CHF. Nuanxinkang (NXK), a Chinese herbal compound preparation, has significant cardioprotective effects on CHF; however, its underlying mechanism on mitophagy has not been completely clarified. This research intended to investigate the mechanism of NXK in treating myocardial infarction (MI)-induced CHF. MethodsThe left anterior descending coronary artery (LAD) ligation surgery was performed to establish an MI-induced CHF model in male C57BL/6 mice. From 1 day after surgery, mice were given NXK (0.41, 0.82 or 1.65 g/kg/d), Perindopril (PDPL, 0.607 mg/kg/d), or an equivalent amount of sterile water by gavage for 28 continuous days. Then, mice were examined for cardiac function, myocardial fibrosis, cardiomyocyte apoptosis, mitochondrial structure and mitophagy levels of cardiomyocytes, etc. In addition, a hypoxic injury model was created using HL-1 cardiomyocytes from wild-type (WT) mice. HL-1 cells were pretreated with or without NXK-containing serum. Mitochondrial function and mitophagy levels were examined in HL-1 cells. ResultsIn MI-induced CHF mice, cardiac dysfunction, severe cardiac remodeling, elevated levels of oxidative stress, reduced ATP levels, and inhibition of PINK1/Parkin-mediated mitophagy were observed. High-dose NXK treatment (1.65 g/kg/d) significantly improved myocardial energy metabolism, inhibited cardiac remodeling, improved cardiac function, and restored cardiac PINK1/Parkin-mediated mitophagy levels to some extent in MI mice. In vitro, elevated levels of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) with impaired mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm) were observed in hypoxic HL-1 cells. While NXK treatment significantly protected cardiomyocytes from hypoxia-induced mitochondrial dysfunction, which is consistent with the in vivo results. Further studies showed that NXK could increase PINK1/Parkin-mediated mitophagy levels in cardiomyocytes, which could be blocked by the mitophagy inhibitor Mdivi-1. ConclusionIn conclusion, NXK could prevent cardiac mitochondrial dysfunction and improve cardiac function against MI-induced CHF by promoting Pink1/Parkin-mediated mitophagy, which represents a very prospective strategy for the treatment of CHF.

Multitech-Based Study on Medicinal Material Basis and Action Mechanism of Herbal Formula Xian-Ling-Gu-Bao Capsule in Treatment of Osteoarthritis.

Currently, osteoarthritis (OA) is thought to be the most prevalent chronic joint disease worldwide. The epidemiology of this disorder is complex, and the treatment is challenging. Xian-Ling-Gu-Bao (XLGB) capsule, a herbal compound preparation, is widely used for the treatment of bone disorders, including OA. Although its efficacy and safety have been demonstrated in clinical trials and practice, the underlying medicinal constituents and mechanism have not been clearly elucidated. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the medicinal constituents and mechanism of XLGB for OA treatment. The phytochemical constituents in XLGB capsule were detected by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS), the medicinal constituents and therapeutic mechanism for OA treatment were deduced by network analysis, and the deduced mechanism was validated by in vitro experiment. As a result, a total of 55 constituents were detected in XLGB extract, in which 16 constituents were screened out for target collection. Based on the analysis of target profile, XLGB targets showed a high degree of similarity with OA targets. Network analysis revealed that XLGB had a holistic effect of multiple active constituents on multiple targets and pathways. The core targets of XLGB were presumed to be MAPKs, PI3K, AKT, BCL2, RELA, TNF, NOS2, and so on, and the mechanism was speculated to mainly inhibit chondrocyte apoptosis and inflammatory response through JNK and PI3K/AKT/NF-κB signaling cascades. Finally, in vitro study confirmed that XLGB extract protected ATDC5 cells against lipopolysaccharide- (LPS-) induced apoptosis and inflammatory response, and these effects were supposed to be involved in the inhibition of JNK and PI3K/AKT/NF-κB pathways. Our study could provide a scientific basis for further research and clinical use of XLGB capsule.

Murvadi Agada-QC Analysis, Method of Preparation & its Uses in Current Scenario

Murvadi Agada is a unique and useful formulation, which is specifically prescribed for Agni Vikara’s. It is a compound herbal preparation that is explained under the context of “Garopahat Paavaka” i.e. a condition which is a result of impaired Agni caused due to administration of Gara visha. The formulation is a sole contribution of Asthanga Kara’s which is not explained elsewhere. Murvadi Agada has to be administered with Anupanas like Ushana Jala, Takra, Mastu and Amla Rasa Dravyas. Gara visha condition in present era can arise due to addition of toxic substances like animal excreta, toxic medicines, viruddhaaushadhi etc to food substances. In current scenario all the junk food, colouring agents, food additives, preservatives, packed food items and drinks can be taken as Gara Visha. This may produce Agni Vikara’s (digestive disorders) like Sthoulya, Arsha, Attisara, Udara Rogas etc. Murvadi Agada administered with proper Anupana can help in these diseases

Analysis of Chinese herbal compound preparations by ballpoint connector supported solvent microextraction and high-performance liquid chromatography with ultraviolet detection

Chinese herbal compound preparations are commonly composed of multiple traditional Chinese medicines (TCMs). The components of Chinese herbal compound preparation are complex, therefore, in this paper, ballpoint connector supported solvent microextraction (BC-SME) coupled with high-performance liquid chromatography with ultraviolet detection (HPLC/UV) is reported for the simultaneous extraction, enrichment and determination of the active flavonoids and anthraquinones with minimal waste production. The primary parameters affecting the performance were optimized, including the reuse of the ballpoint connector (BC), extraction solvent, pH of the sample solution, stirring rate, salt concentration, and extraction time. Under the optimal conditions, good linearities with r ≥ 0.9966 were obtained. The limits of detection (LODs) and quantitation (LOQs) were from 0.1 to 0.3 ng/mL and 0.4 to 0.9 ng/mL, respectively. The intra-day and inter-day relative standard deviations (RSDs) were less than 6.6% and the average recoveries were between 93.4% and 106.0%. Moreover, the analyte enrichment factors (EFs) were from 63 to 391. The results showed the method was simple, economical, sensitive, and provided high enrichment and allowed the extraction of flavonoids and anthraquinones in Chinese herbal compound preparations.

Predictive quality control for compound liquorice tablets by the intelligent mergence fingerprint method combined with the systematic quantitative fingerprint method.

Compound liquorice tablet (CLT) is a herbal compound preparation and is used as a classic antitussive and expectorant in China. It is composed of liquorice extract powder, opioid powder, star anise oil, camphor, and sodium benzoate. The complexity of herbal materials brings a huge challenge in producing compound preparations with stable and uniform quality consistency. To establish a new intelligent model for predicting the quality of CLT. The HPLC fingerprints of raw materials including liquorice extract powder, powdered opium, star anise oil, and sodium benzoate were tested and merged to generate the intelligent mergence fingerprints, whose correlation with the raw materials and the CLT samples was studied. The consistency of the intelligently merged fingerprints with the standard fingerprints was observed by using the systematic quantitative fingerprint method in order to calculate quality evaluation results. The intelligent mergence fingerprints covered all the main fingerprint peaks of four raw materials and had a good correlation with the CLT sample fingerprint. There were no significant quality differences either among the six intelligent mergence models obtained by combining different batches of raw materials or between the reference fingerprint of the intelligent mergence connection fingerprints (RFPIMFC ) and the theoretical standard preparation (RFPS ). The computer-aided model of intelligent mergence fingerprints could be used to predict the quality of herbal compound preparations based on raw materials. In this way, preproduction quality prediction can be realised in order to avoid low-quality medicinal materials and improve the quality consistency among different batches.

The efficacy of Ramak (a traditional herbal medicine preparation) for patients with ulcerative colitis: A pilot, randomized, triple-blinded, placebo-controlled clinical trial

IntroductionUlcerative colitis (UC) is a common chronic inflammatory disease. Although the current medication can greatly help to control the disease, the complications of these drugs have led to complementary treatments being taken into consideration. Ramak is a compound herbal preparation that is traditionally used in Persian medicine for intestinal ulcers and chronic diarrhea. Therefore, a clinical trial was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of Ramak, as a complementary treatment, for the management of UC. MethodsForty patients with UC were randomly allocated to either Ramak or placebo capsules (250mg, once a day) for 10 weeks. Patients in both groups also received conventional treatment. The Simple Clinical Colitis Activity Index (SCCAI) was the primary outcome measure. Also, within- and between group comparisons were made based on 6 different items of SCCAI. ResultsThere was a significant between group difference regarding SCCAI total scores at 4th, 6th, 8th, and 10th weeks (p < 0.05). Also, the time course showed stability of SCCAI total score in the Ramak group (p = 0.20). In addition, a significant difference was shown regarding the urgency of defecation and general health scores of the Ramak group vs. the control group (p < 0.001 and p = 0.03, respectively). ConclusionIt appeared that complementary treatment with Ramak may prevent symptom aggravation. Moreover, Ramak improved defecation urgency. However, further clinical trials with a larger cohort and longer intervention time are warranted for better decision making in clinical practice.

Herbal Medicines for Gastrointestinal Disorders in Children and Adolescents: A Systematic Review.

Gastrointestinal disorders are common childhood complaints. Particular types of complementary and alternative medicine, such as herbal medicine, are commonly used among children. Research information on efficacy, safety, or dosage forms is still lacking. To systematically summarize effectiveness and safety of different herbal treatment options for gastrointestinal disorders in children. Medline/PubMed, Scopus, and the Cochrane Library were searched through July 15, 2016. Randomized controlled trials comparing herbal therapy with no treatment, placebo, or any pharmaceutical medication in children and adolescents (aged 0-18 years) with gastrointestinal disorders were eligible. Two authors extracted data on study design, patients, interventions, control interventions, results, adverse events, and risk of bias. Fourteen trials with 1927 participants suffering from different acute and functional gastrointestinal disorders were included in this review. Promising evidence for effectiveness was found for Potentilla erecta, carob bean juice, and an herbal compound preparation including Matricaria chamomilla in treating diarrhea. Moreover, evidence was found for peppermint oil in decreasing duration, frequency, and severity of pain in children suffering from undifferentiated functional abdominal pain. Furthermore, evidence for effectiveness was found for different fennel preparations (eg, oil, tea, herbal compound) in treating children with infantile colic. No serious adverse events were reported. Few studies on specific indications, single herbs, or herbal preparations could be identified. Because of the limited number of studies, results have to be interpreted carefully. To underpin evidence outlined in this review, more rigorous clinical trials are needed.

Mechanistic understanding of the effect of Dengzhan Shengmai capsule on the pharmacokinetics of clopidogrel in rats

Ethnopharmacological relevanceThe Dengzhan Shengmai capsule (DZSM) is known in China for its remarkable curative effect as a treatment of cardiovascular diseases, such as coronary heart disease and ischemic stroke. DZSM is a Chinese herbal compound preparation that consists of four ingredients, including Erigeron breviscapus (Vaniot) Hand.-Mazz., Panax ginseng C.A. Mey, Ophiopogon japonicas (Thunb.) Ker-Gawl. and Schisandra chinensis (Turcz.) Baill., and was indexed in the Chinese Pharmacopoeia 2010. DZSM and clopidogrel are often co-prescribed in the clinic to prevent the recurrence of stroke or other cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. However, the effect of DZSM on the pharmacokinetics of clopidogrel remains unclear. Aim of the studyThe purpose of the study is to explore the pharmacokinetics and potential interaction between DZSM and clopidogrel and the underlying mechanism. Materials and methodsRats were used to investigate the effect of DZSM on the pharmacokinetics of clopidogrel and its active metabolite in vivo. The plasma concentrations were simultaneously determined using LC–MS/MS. The effects of DZSM on the P-gp-mediated efflux transport and CYP450-mediated metabolism of clopidogrel were investigated using MDCKII-MDR1 cells and rat liver microsomes, respectively. ResultsAfter pretreatment with DZSM, the Cmax and AUC0–∞ of clopidogrel increased from 0.4±0.1 to 1.7±0.6ng/mL and 0.9±0.4 to 2.0±0.2ng/mLh, respectively. The Cmax and AUC0–∞ of the derivatized active metabolite of clopidogrel decreased from 8.2±1.2 to 2.8±0.5ng/mL and 18.2±5.6 to 6.4±3.7ngh/mL, respectively. In MDCKII-MDR1 cells, the P-gp-mediated efflux transport of clopidogrel was significantly inhibited by the DZSM extract. In rat liver microsomes, DZSM inhibited clopidogrel metabolism with an IC50 of 0.02mg/mL. ConclusionsDZSM significantly affects the pharmacokinetics of clopidogrel and its active metabolite by inhibiting the P-gp-mediated efflux transport and CYP450-mediated metabolism of clopidogrel. Thus, caution is needed when DZSM is co-administered with clopidogrel in the clinic because the interaction of these drugs may result in altered plasma concentrations of clopidogrel and its active metabolite.

Efficacy and safety of Ayurvedic herbs in diarrhoea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome: A randomised controlled crossover trial

ObjectiveHerbal medicines have been used widely for the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) patients. The aim of this study is to investigate efficacy and safety of an Ayurvedic herbal compound preparation made from: Murraya koenigii (curry), Punica granatum (pomegranate) and Curcuma longa (turmeric), compared to a placebo in patients with diarrhoea predominant IBS. Material and methodsThis trial was conducted as a randomised placebo-controlled crossover trial with randomised sequence of verum and placebo for each patient. Verum and placebo were provided as ground powders and delivered in sealed containers. Patients and outcome assessors were blinded. Patients were advised to ingest the decoction twice daily for 4 weeks. The primary outcome measure was IBS symptom intensity; secondary outcomes included: quality of life, anxiety and depression, compliance and safety. Results32 IBS patients were included in the trial (19 females, mean age 50.3±11.9years). Eleven people dropped out during the trial resulting in 37 complete verum and 35 complete placebo phases. No group differences were found between verum and placebo for IBS symptom intensity (difference 24.10; 95% CI: −17.12; 65.32, p=0.26). The same was true for secondary outcomes. Compliance was satisfactory to good and the preparation appeared to be safe, but one third of the patients registered at least one minor adverse event that might be related to the study interventions. ConclusionAn Ayurvedic herbal preparation made from Murraya koenigii, Punica granatum and Curcuma longa appeared to be no more effective in improving diarrhoea predominant irritable bowel symptoms than placebo.

Yangjing Capsule Ameliorates Spermatogenesis in Male Mice Exposed to Cyclophosphamide.

Yangjing capsule (YC), a traditional Chinese compound herbal preparation, has been proven as an effective drug to improve spermatogenesis in clinical practice. However, its pharmacological mechanisms were not fully clarified. This study was designed to investigate the protective effects of YC on spermatogenesis in the mouse model of spermatogenesis dysfunction induced by cyclophosphamide (CP). The administration of YC significantly increased the epididymal index, sperm count, and sperm motility of model mice. Histopathological changes demonstrated that CP caused obvious structural damage to testis, which were reversed by the administration of YC. Results from TUNEL assay showed that treatment with YC dramatically decreased the apoptosis of spermatogenic cell induced by CP. Moreover, YC treatment could inhibit the mRNA and protein expression of Bax to Bcl-2 and also raised expression of AR at both mRNA and protein levels. These data suggest that YC might ameliorate spermatogenesis in male mice exposed to CP through inhibiting the apoptosis of spermatogenic cell and enhancing the actions of testosterone in spermatogenesis.

Attenuation of early liver fibrosis by herbal compound "Diwu Yanggan" through modulating the balance between epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition and mesenchymal-to-epithelial transition.

BackgroundDiwu Yanggan (DWYG) is a Chinese compound herbal preparation which consists of five Chinese herbs. This study investigates the preventative effects of DWYG on liver fibrosis induced by carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) and explores its possible mechanisms of action.MethodsLiver fibrosis was induced in male Wistar rats by injecting a 50% CCl4/soybean oil solution subcutaneously twice a week for six weeks. After six weeks of treatment, serum aspartate transaminase (AST) and alanine transaminase (ALT) assay, liver tissue histological assessment and hepatic hydroxyproline assay were respectively carried out to examine the effects of DWYG on liver function and fibrosis degree. The impacts of DWYG on the expression levels of epithelial marker E-cadherin, mesenchymal marker Vimentin, transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1) and bone morphogenetic protein-7 (BMP-7) were further examined by quantitative real-time RT-PCR and Western blot analysis. In addition, the differences of Hedgehog (Hh) signaling pathway activity between DWYG-treated and DWYG-untreated fibrotic liver tissues were also evaluated by quantitative real-time RT-PCR and Western blot analysis.ResultsUpon DWYG treatment, the serum levels of ALT and AST, hepatic hydroxyproline content and the degree of fibrosis in CCl4-induced fibrotic model rats were dramatically declined. In accompany with the alleviation of the degree of fibrosis, DWYG treatment provoked the reversal of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) to mesenchymal-to-epithelial transition (MET) in the fibrotic liver tissues, which was characterized with the up-regulation expression of E-cadherin and down-regulation expression of Vimentin. Furthermore, we observed that the expression level of TGF-β1 was reduced whereas the expression level of BMP-7 was enhanced in liver tissues of DWYG-treated rats, therefore the expression ratio of TGF-β1/BMP-7 was dramatically decreased compared to CCl4-induced fibrosis model rats. In addition, quantitative real-time RT-PCR and Western blot analysis demonstrated that after DWYG treatment the expressions of Hh ligand Shh, receptor Smo and Ptc, and transcription factor Gli1 in CCl4-induced fibrotic liver tissues were dramatically repressed.ConclusionsDWYG demonstrates therapeutic potential to prevent liver fibrosis by modulating the balance between EMT and MET through reducing the expression ratio of TGF-β1/BMP-7 and inhibiting the excessive activation of Hh signaling pathway.

Ayurvedic interventions for osteoarthritis: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Ayurveda is one of the fastest growing systems within complementary and alternative medicine. However, the evidence for its effectiveness is unsatisfactory. The aim of this work was to review and meta-analyze the effectiveness and safety of different Ayurvedic interventions in patients with osteoarthritis (OA). 138 electronic databases were searched through August 2013. Randomized controlled trials, randomized crossover studies, cluster-randomized trials, and non-randomized controlled clinical trials were eligible. Adults with pre-diagnosed OA were included as participants. Interventions were included as Ayurvedic if they were explicitly labeled as such. Main outcome measures were pain, physical function, and global improvement. Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane risk of bias tool. 19 randomized and 14 non-randomized controlled trials on 12 different drugs and 3 non-pharmaceutical interventions with a total of 2,952 patients were included. For the compound preparation, Rumalaya, large and apparently unbiased effects beyond placebo were found for pain (standardized mean difference [SMD] -3.73; 95 % confidence interval [CI] -4.97, -2.50; P < 0.01) and global improvement (risk ratio 12.20; 95 % CI 5.83, 25.54; P < 0.01). There is also some evidence that effects of the herbal compound preparation Shunti-Guduchi are comparable to those of glucosamine for pain (SMD 0.08; 95 % CI -0.20, 0.36; P = 0.56) and function (SMD 0.15; 95 % CI -0.12, 0.36; P = 0.41). Based on single trials, positive effects were found for the compound preparations RA-11, Reosto, and Siriraj Wattana. For Boswellia serrata, Lepidium Sativum, a Boswellia serrata containing multicomponent formulation and the compounds Nirgundi Taila, Panchatikta Ghrita Guggulu, and Rhumayog, and for non-pharmacological interventions like Ayurvedic massage, steam therapy, and enema, no evidence for significant effects against potential methodological bias was found. No severe adverse events were observed in all trials. The drugs Rumalaya and Shunti-Guduchi seem to be safe and effective drugs for treatment of OA-patients, based on these data. However, several limitations relate to clinical research on Ayurveda. Well-planned, well-conducted and well-published trials are warranted to improve the evidence for Ayurvedic interventions.

Research about effect of spray drying conditions on hygroscopicity of spray dry powder of Gubi compound’s water extract and its mechanism

To investigate moisture content and hygroscopicity of spray dry powder of Gubi compound's water extract obtained at different spray drying conditions and laying a foundation for spray drying process of Chinese herbal compound preparation. In the paper, on the basis of single-factor experiments, the author choose inlet temperature, liquid density, feed rate, air flow rate as investigated factors. The experimental absorption rate-time curve and scanning electron microscopy results showed that under different spray drying conditions the spray-dried powders have different morphology and different adsorption process. At different spray-dried conditions, the morphology and water content of the powder is different, these differences lead to differences in the adsorption process, at the appropriate inlet temperature and feed rate with a higher sample density and lower air flow rate, in the experimental system the optimum conditions is inlet temperature of 150 degrees C, feed density of 1.05 g x mL(-1), feed rate of 20 mL x min(-1) air flow rate of 30 m3 x h(-1).

A validated high performance liquid chromatograph-photodiode array method for simultaneous determination of 10 bioactive components in compound hongdoushan capsule.

Background:The compound Hongdoushan capsule (CHC) is widely known as compound herbal preparation and is often used to treat ovarian cancer and breast cancer, and to enhance the body immunity, etc., in clinical practice.Objective:To determine simultaneously 10 bioactive components from CHC, namely glycyrrhetinic acid, liquiritin, glycyrrhizin, baccatin III, 10-deacetylbaccatin III, cephalomannine, taxol, ginsenoside Rg1, ginsenoside Re, and ginsenoside Rb1.Materials and Methods:A high performance liquid chromatograph method coupled with photodiode array detector was developed and validated for the 1st time. Chromatographic analysis was performed on a SHIMADZU C18 by utilizing a gradient elution program. The mobile phase was acetonitrile (A)-water (B) at a flow rate of 0.8 mL/min.Results:The calibration curve was linear over the investigated concentration ranges with the values of r2 higher than 0.9993 for all the 10 bioactive components. The average recovery rates range from 98.4% to 100.5% with relative standard deviations ≤2.9%. The developed method was successfully applied to analyze 10 compounds in six CHC samples from different batches. In addition, the herbal sources of 32 chromatographic peaks were identified through comparative studying on chromatograms of standard, the respective extracts of Hongdoushan, RenShen, GanCao, and CHC.Conclusion:All the results imply that the accurate and reproducible method developed has high separation rate and enables the determination of 10 bioactive components in a single run for the quality control of CHC.

Fuzheng Huayu inhibits carbon tetrachloride-induced liver fibrosis in mice through activating hepatic NK cells

Aim of the studyFuzheng Huayu (FZHY) is a Chinese compound herbal preparation which consists of six Chinese herbs. This study examines the preventative effects of FZHY on liver fibrosis induced by carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) and explores its possible mechanisms of action. Materials and methodsLiver fibrosis was induced in male C57BL/6N mice by injecting a 10% CCl4 solution intraperitoneal twice a week for six weeks. After 6 weeks of treatment, serum ALT and AST assay, liver tissue histological examination and immunostaining were carried out to examine the liver function and fibrosis degree. The expression levels of alpha-smooth muscle actin (SMA) were measured by quantitative real-time PCR and western blot. Hepatic natural killer (NK) cells were isolated from liver and evaluated by FACS. ResultsUpon pathological examination, the FZHY-treated mice showed significantly reduced liver damage. The expression of α-SMA increased markedly upon treatment with CCl4 and the increase was reversed by FZHY treatment. FZHY treatment also enhanced the activation of hepatic NK cells and the production of interferon-gamma (IFN-γ). The protective effects of FZHY were reversed in the mice that were depleted of NK cells by anti-ASGM-1 Ab treatment. ConclusionsFZHY can efficiently inhibit CCl4-induced liver fibrosis. Furthermore, the depletion of NK cells attenuates the protective effects of FZHY. We conclude that FZHY could be an effective drug for liver fibrosis, and its mechanism of action involves the activation of hepatic NK cells.

Study on synergic and decreasing toxic effects of mineral water and Chinese herbal compound preparation on cisplatin

The synergic and decreasing toxic effects of mineral water and Chinese herbal compound preparation (MWCHCP) on cisplatin were investigated in sarcoma 180 (S180) mice. The S180 mice were treated for 5 days with intraperitoneal injection of cisplatin(7.33 mg x kg(-1)) and oral administration of MWCHCP(1 925, 3 850, 7 700 mg x kg(-1)). Then the mice were killed and the tumor growth inhibition rate, organ index, diarrhea index were determined. Observe pathological sections of stomach to study the protective effect of MWCHCP. Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) was applied to investigate the tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) expression level of the intestine. Combining with cisplatin and MWCHCP caused a tendency of increasing the tumor growth inhibition rate and significant attenution of cisplatin-induced diarrhea, visceral organ injury, gastric mucosal injury and decreased TNF-alpha mRNA level of intestine. The present findings suggest that MWCHCP increases the inhibition rate of tumor growth of cisplatin and has a beneficial influence on gastrointestinal lesion induced by cisplatin.