Fructus Schisandrae Chinensis Research Articles

Effects of Li-Dan-He-Ji on regulating oxidative stress and antagonising infantile cholestatic hepatic fibrosis

To explore the clinical effect of Li-Dan-He-Ji in the treatment of infantile cholestatic hepatic fibrosis. Patients who met the diagnostic criteria of infantile cholestatic hepatic fibrosis in the department of integrated traditional Chinese and Western medicine and the department of gastroenterology of Wuhan Children's Hospital Affiliated to Tongji Medical College of Huazhong University of Science and Technology from January to December 2021 were included in the study by prospective randomized controlled trial. They were divided into the conventional treatment group and Li-Dan-He-Ji group according to the random number table. The patients in the conventional treatment group were given conventional treatment according to the guidelines. In the Li-Dan-He-Ji group, the self-made Chinese medicinal compound Li-Dan-He-Ji (prescription: Herba Artemisiae Scopariae, Fructus Forsythiae, Radix et Rhizoma Rhei preparata, Radix Polygoni Multiflori Preparata, Radix Paeoniae Rubra, Ramulus Cinnamomi, Fructus Aurantii, Rhizoma Atractylodis Macrocephalae, Fructus Schisandrae Chinensis, Carapax Trionycis, and Radix Glycyrrhizae) was given on the basis of the routine treatment, by oral, enema or nasal feeding, 60 mL each day, divided into 2 or 3 times, for 28 days. Outpatient follow-up was maintained for 4 weeks. Before and after treatment, serum liver fibrosis 4 items [type IV collagen (IV-C), hyaluronidase (HA), type III procollagen (PC III), laminin (LN)], liver function and cholestasis-related markers [total bilirubin (TBil), direct bilirubin (DBil), total bile acid (TBA), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), γ-glutamyl transpeptidase (γ-GGT), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST)], oxidative stress markers [superoxide dismutase (SOD), malondialdehyde (MDA), and glutathione (GSH)], liver stiffness measurement (LSM) detected by transient elastography (TE), aspartate aminotransferase-to-platelet ratio index (APRI), and liver and spleen retraction time were recorded in the two groups. During the observation period, a total of 40 cases of cholestatic hepatic fibrosis were treated, including 21 cases in the conventional treatment group and 19 cases in the Li-Dan-He-Ji group. Before treatment, the differences in serum liver fibrosis 4 items, serum liver function and cholestasis-related markers, oxidative stress indexes, LSM and APRI of the two groups were not statistically significant. After treatment, the liver fibrosis 4 items, liver function and cholestasis-related markers, LSM, and APRI were all significantly decreased in both groups, and the indexes in the Li-Dan-He-Ji group were significantly lower than those in the conventional treatment group [HA (ng/L): 165.81±21.57 vs. 203.87±25.88, PC III (μg/L): 69.86±9.32 vs. 81.82±7.39, IV-C (μg/L): 204.14±38.97 vs. 239.08±24.93, LN (μg/L): 162.40±17.39 vs. 190.86±15.97, TBil (μmol/L): 37.58±27.63 vs. 53.06±45.09, DBil (μmol/L): 20.55±19.34 vs. 30.08±27.39, ALP (U/L): 436.50±217.58 vs. 469.60±291.69, γ-GGT (U/L): 66.78±35.84 vs. 87.00±32.82, ALT (U/L): 64.75±50.53 vs. 75.20±50.19, AST (U/L): 77.25±54.23 vs. 96.80±59.77, TBA (μmol/L): 74.35±44.44 vs. 85.45±39.50, LSM (kPa): 5.24±0.39 vs. 7.53±3.16, APRI: 0.52±0.39 vs. 0.98±0.29, all P < 0.05]. After treatment, MDA in the two groups were significantly lower than those before treatment, and SOD and GSH were significantly higher than those before treatment. The level of SOD in the Li-Dan-He-Ji group was significantly higher than that in the conventional treatment group (kU/L: 64.56±6.69 vs. 51.58±5.98, P < 0.05). In addition, the liver retraction time (day: 20.13±10.97 vs. 24.33±13.46) and spleen retraction time (day: 25.93±13.01 vs. 29.14±14.52) in the Li-Dan-He-Ji group were significantly shorter than those in the conventional treatment group (both P < 0.05). The use of Li-Dan-He-Ji in the treatment of cholestatic hepatic fibrosis can effectively improve the indicators of cholestasis, hepatic fibrosis, oxidative stress and clinical symptoms in children.

Optimized Extraction, Identification and Anti-Biofilm Action of Wu Wei Zi (Fructus Schisandrae Chinensis) Extracts against Vibrio parahaemolyticus

The pathogenicity of foodborne Vibrio parahaemolyticus is a major concern for global public health. This study aimed to optimize the liquid-solid extraction of Wu Wei Zi extracts (WWZE) against Vibrio parahaemolyticus, identify its main components, and investigate the anti-biofilm action. The extraction conditions optimized by the single-factor test and response surface methodology were ethanol concentration of 69%, temperature at 91 °C, time of 143 min, and liquid-solid ratio of 20:1 mL/g. After high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis, it was found that the main active ingredients of WWZE were schisandrol A, schisandrol B, schisantherin A, schisanhenol, and schisandrin A-C. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of WWZE, schisantherin A, and schisandrol B measured by broth microdilution assay was 1.25, 0.625, and 1.25 mg/mL, respectively, while the MIC of the other five compounds was higher than 2.5 mg/mL, indicating that schisantherin A and schizandrol B were the main antibacterial components of WWZE. Crystal violet, Coomassie brilliant blue, Congo red plate, spectrophotometry, and Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) assays were used to evaluate the effect of WWZE on the biofilm of V. parahaemolyticus. The results showed that WWZE could exert its dose-dependent potential to effectively inhibit the formation of V. parahaemolyticus biofilm and clear mature biofilm by significantly destroying the cell membrane integrity of V. parahaemolyticus, inhibiting the synthesis of intercellular polysaccharide adhesin (PIA), extracellular DNA secretion, and reducing the metabolic activity of biofilm. This study reported for the first time the favorable anti-biofilm effect of WWZE against V. parahaemolyticus, which provides a basis for deepening the application of WWZE in the preservation of aquatic products.

Combined with UPLC-Triple-TOF/MS-based plasma lipidomics and molecular pharmacology reveals the mechanisms of schisandrin against Alzheimer’s disease

BackgroundAlzheimer’s disease (AD), a type of neurodegeneration disease, is characterized by Aβ deposition and tangles of nerve fibers. Schisandrin is one of the main components of Fructus Schisandrae Chinensis. Researches showed that schisandrin can improve the cognitive impairment and memory of AD mice, but the specific mechanism has not been fully elucidated.PurposeThe purpose of this study is to investigate the possible mechanism of schisandrin in improving AD pathology.MethodsThe Morris water maze test was executed to detect spatial learning and memory. Ultra performance liquid chromatography-Triple time of flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-Triple-TOF/MS)-based plasma lipidomics was used to study the changes of plasma lipids. Moreover, we measured the levels of protein and mRNA expression of APOE and ABCA1 in the rat brains and in BV2 microglia.ResultsOur study found that schisandrin could improve learning and memory, and reduce Aβ deposition in AD rats. Furthermore, we found that schisandrin can improve plasma lipid metabolism disorders. Therefore, we hypothesized schisandrin might act via LXR and the docking results showed that schisandrin interacts with LXRβ. Further, we found schisandrin increased the protein and mRNA expression of LXR target genes APOE and ABCA1 in the brain of AD rats and in BV2 microglia.ConclusionOur study reveals the neuroprotective effect and mechanism of schisandrin improves AD pathology by activating LXR to produce APOE and ABCA1.

Antidepressant potential of diphenyl dimethyl bicarboxylate (DDB) in a modified forced swimming test

Biphenyl Dimethyl Dicarboxylate (DDB); is an analogue of schisandrin C, a component isolated from Fructus Schisandrae Chinensis. It is now attracting growing attention for its polypharmacotherapeutic properties as an antiviral, hepatoprotective, and immunomodulator. It’s been additionally possessed neurobehavioral impacts on experimental animals. Thus, the wide use of DDB, along with its neurobehavioral impacts; has encouraged us to study its antidepressant potential using the forced swimming test (FST). Furthermore, the protocol for FST was modified by combining it with the tail suspension test. The effect of DDB (100 mg/kg/day, p.o., 7 days) on combined technique was evaluated against fluoxetine (15 mg/kg, i.p., single dose). In the end, the brains were dissected; serotonin (5-HT), dopamine (DA), and norepinephrine (NE) levels were measured. The results demonstrated that DDB decreased immobility in FST time as fluoxetine. Furthermore, DDB elevated 5HT, NE, and DA. DDB may be useful as a supportive antidepressant drug in hepatic diseased patients. However, more clinical studies are needed to ensure its safety.

Mai Wei Di Huang Wan (Ophiopogon, Schisandra and Rehmannia Pill)

Mai Wei Di Huang Wan (Ophiopogon, Schisandra and Rehmannia Pill), nourishes Liver and Kidney Yin, astringes Lung Qi and nourishes Lung Yin. This formula has similar actions as Liu Wei Di Huang Wan (Six-Ingredient Pill with Rehmannia). It also contains the herbs Mai Dong (Radix Ophiopogonis) and Wu Wei Zi (Fructus Schisandrae Chinensis) that give it a more specific ability to treat Kidney and Lung Yin deficiencies with clinical signs of dry cough, shortness of breath, constipation or dry feces, as well as the clinical signs of Yin deficiency found in Liu Wei Di Huang Wan (Six-Ingredient Pill with Rehmannia). The original source of Mai Wei Di Huang Wan is from the Yi Ji (Levels of Medicine).1 Mai Wei Di Huang Wan is composed of the same six herbs as Liu Wei Di Huang Wan (Six-Ingredient Pill with Rehmannia). Shu Di Huang (Rehmannia), the chief herb, tonifies Kidney Yin and Jing (essence) and fills the marrow. Shan Zhu Yu (Cornus) nourishes the Liver and Kidney and astringes Jing. Shan Yao (Dioscorea) tonifies the Spleen and Kidney and consolidates Jing. Together, these three tonic herbs address deficiencies of the Kidney, Liver, and Spleen.

Hepatoprotective Effect of Jianpi Huoxue Formula on Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Induced by Methionine-Choline-Deficient Diet in Rat.

In parallel with the prevalence metabolic syndrome, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has become the most common chronic liver disease in most countries. It features a constellation of simple steatosis, nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), fibrosis, cirrhosis, and even hepatocellular carcinoma. There are no approved drugs for effective management of NAFLD and NASH. Jianpi Huoxue formula (JPHX) mainly consists of Atractylodes macrocephal (Baizhu), Salvia miltiorrhiza (Danshen), Rasux Paeonia Alba (Baishao), Rhizoma Alismatis (Zexie), and Fructus Schisandrae Chinensis (Wuweizi), which may have beneficial effects on NAFLD. The aim of the study was to identify the effect of JPHX on NAFLD. A NAFLD model was induced by methionine-choline-deficient food (MCD) in Wistar rats and orally administered with simultaneous JPHX, once a day for 8 weeks. Hepatocellular injury, lipid profile, inflammation, fibrosis, and apoptosis were evaluated. The results showed that JPHX significantly decreased the abnormal serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels compared with the MCD model (P<0.05). Furthermore, JPHX protected MCD diet-fed rats from accumulation of hepatic triglycerides (TG) and total cholesterol (TC). Histological examination demonstrated that JPHX noticeably normalized the NAFLD activity score (NAS). Moreover, JPHX ameliorated liver inflammation by decreasing TNF-α levels and reduced collagen and matrix metalloproteinases in MCD diet-fed rats. In addition, JPHX prevented rats from MCD-induced cellular apoptosis, as suggested by TUNEL staining, and suppressed the activation of caspase 3 and 7 proteins. JPHX also inhibited the phosphorylation of JNK. In conclusion, JPHX exhibited a hepatoprotective effect against NAFLD in an MCD experimental model.

Extract of Fructus Schisandrae chinensis Inhibits Neuroinflammation Mediator Production from Microglia via NF-κ B and MAPK Pathways.

To investigate the anti-neuroinflammation effect of extract of Fructus Schisandrae chinensis (EFSC) on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced BV-2 cells and the possible involved mechanisms. Primary cortical neurons were isolated from embryonic (E17-18) cortices of Institute of Cancer Research (ICR) mouse fetuses. Primary microglia and astroglia were isolated from the frontal cortices of newborn ICR mouse. Different cells were cultured in specific culture medium. Cells were divided into 5 groups: control group, LPS group (treated with 1 μg/mL LPS only) and EFSC groups (treated with 1 μg/mL LPS and 100, 200 or 400 mg/mL EFSC, respectively). The effect of EFSC on cells viability was tested by methylthiazolyldiphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) colorimetric assay. EFSC-mediated inhibition of LPS-induced production of pro-inflammatory mediators, such as nitrite oxide (NO) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) were quantified and neuron-protection effect against microglia-mediated inflammation injury was tested by hoechst 33258 apoptosis assay and crystal violet staining assay. The expression of pro-inflammatory marker proteins was evaluated by Western blot analysis or immunofluorescence. EFSC (200 and 400 mg/mL) reduced NO, IL-6, inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2) expression in LPS-induced BV-2 cells (P<0.01 or P<0.05). EFSC (200 and 400 mg/mL) reduced the expression of NO in LPS-induced primary microglia and astroglia (P<0.01). In addition, EFSC alleviated cell apoptosis and inflammation injury in neurons exposed to microglia-conditioned medium (P<0.01). The mechanistic studies indicated EFSC could suppress nuclear factor (NF)-?B phosphorylation and its nuclear translocation (P<0.01). The anti-inflammatory effect of EFSC occurred through suppressed activation of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway (P<0.01 or P<0.05). EFSC acted as an anti-inflammatory agent in LPS-induced glia cells. These effects might be realized through blocking of NF-κB activity and inhibition of MAPK signaling pathways.

Effects of Mahuang (Herba Ephedra Sinica) and Wuweizi (Fructus Schisandrae Chinensis) medicated serum on chemotactic migration of alveolar macrophages and inters regions macrophages in rats

ObjectiveTo observe the effects of serum containing Mahuang (Herba Ephedra Sinica) or Wuweizi (Fructus Schisandrae Chinensis) on the migration of alveolar macrophages (AM) and interstitial macrophages (IM) from normal rats, and to analyze and compare the mechanisms leading to cell migration differences. MethodsRats were randomly divided into three groups: Mahuang (Herba Ephedra Sinica), Wuweizi (Fructus Schisandrae Chinensis), and blank serum. After treatment with the herbs, serum was extracted from the rats. AM and IM were isolated from normal rats and cultured. The effects of Mahuang (Herba Ephedra Sinica) and Wuweizi (Fructus Schisandrae Chinensis) medicated serum on normal rat AM and IM chemotactic migration were determined by transwell assays. The CC chemokine receptor (CCR) 2, CCR5, voltage-gated Kvl.3 K+ channel (Kv1.3), and voltage-gated Kvl.5 K+ channel (Kv1.5) protein levels were analyzed by western blotting. ResultsThe migration quantities of AM and IM in the Mahuang (Herba Ephedra Sinica) and Wuweizi (Fructus Schisandrae Chinensis) medicated serum groups were significantly higher than those in the blank serum group (P < 0.01). Compared with the Wuweizi (Fructus Schisandrae Chinensis) medicated serum group, the migration quantity of cultured rat AM in the Mahuang (Herba Ephedra Sinica) medicated serum group was significantly increased (P < 0.01). Meanwhile, compared with the Mahuang (Herba Ephedra Sinica) medicated serum group, the migration quantity of cultured rat IM in the Wuweizi (Fructus Schisandrae Chinensis) medicated serum group was significantly increased (P < 0.01). CCR2, CCR5, Kv1.3, and Kv1.5 proteins were expressed on the AM cell surface, and showed significantly higher expression in the Mahuang (Herba Ephedra Sinica) medicated serum group compared with the Wuweizi (Fructus Schisandrae Chinensis) medicated serum group. In contrast, CCR5, Kv1.3, and Kv1.5 proteins were expressed on the IM cell surface, and showed significantly higher expression in the Wuweizi (Fructus Schisandrae Chinensis) medicated serum group compared with the Mahuang (Herba Ephedra Sinica) medicated serum group. ConclusionMahuang (Herba Ephedra Sinica) and Wuweizi (Fructus Schisandrae Chinensis) can promote AM and IM migration ability, with Mahuang (Herba Ephedra Sinica) targeting AM more apparently and Wuweizi (Fructus Schisandrae Chinensis) targeting IM more apparently. The mechanism may be that, by stimulating cells, Mahuang (Herba Ephedra Sinica) and Wuweizi (Fructus Schisandrae Chinensis) promote expression of CCR2 and CCR5 receptors on the AM and IM cell surface, which pass signals to Kvl.3 and Kvl.5 ion channels, leading to changes in the cytoskeleton, and ultimately promoting chemotactic cell migration.

Ameliorating effect of Erxian decoction combined with Fructus Schisandrae chinensis (Wu Wei Zi) on menopausal sweating and serum hormone profiles in a rat model.

BackgroundModified Erxian decoction (MEXD), i.e., Erxian decoction (EXD) with Fructus Schisandrae chinensis (Wu Wei Zi) added, has been used to alleviate menopausal symptoms. This study aimed to investigate the effects of MEXD on menopausal sweating and serum hormone levels in a rat model of menopause after oral administration of MEXD.MethodsQuality control of MEXD was conducted by employing a reversed-phase high performance liquid chromatography column. The three treatment groups received oral administration of MEXD in 0.5% sodium carboxylmethyl cellulose (CMC-Na) at three different doses (5.5, 11, and 22 g/kg body weight) once-daily for 6 consecutive weeks, with 10 animals per group. Huangqijing oral liquor (5 mL/kg) prepared from the roots of Huang qi (Astragalus membranaceus) with an antiperspirant effect was used as a positive control. The negative control group received the same volume of vehicle (0.5% CMC-Na). Ten 3-month-old Sprague–Dawley rats were used as a young group for comparison with the treatment groups (12–14 months old rats). Blood was collected from all animals after 3–6 weeks of treatment. At the end of the treatment, the uterine weight, ovarian weight, and body weight were recorded. Serum malondialdehyde contents and superoxide dismutase activities were determined by thiobarbituric acid colorimetric assays and chemoluminescence assays, respectively. Serum levels of estradiol, follicle-stimulating hormone, and luteinizing hormone were measured by radioimmunoassays. Rat foot pad assays were used to determine the antiperspirant activity of MEXD and histological examinations were conducted on plantar sweat glands.ResultsTreatment with MEXD (11 g/kg) significantly inhibited sweat excretion in the menopause model rats after treatment for 3 (P = 0.0026) and 6 (P < 0.0001) weeks. The decoction markedly decreased the number of secretory cells in plantar sweat glands. In addition, MEXD (11 g/kg) significantly increased the serum estradiol levels (P < 0.001) and superoxide dismutase activities (P = 0.0405). Furthermore, MEXD (11 g/kg) markedly decreased the serum levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (P = 0.001), luteinizing hormone (P = 0.0213), and malondialdehyde (P = 0.01).ConclusionModified Erxian decoction significantly inhibited sweat excretion, regulated serum levels of pituitary gonadotropins and estradiol, and exhibited antioxidative effects in a rat model of menopause.Electronic supplementary materialThe online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13020-016-0117-6) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

The Protective Effects of Buzui on Acute Alcoholism in Mice.

This study was designed to investigate the role of a traditional buzui recipe in anti-inebriation treatment. Buzui consists of Fructus Schisandrae Chinensis, Fructus Chebulae, Fructus Mume, Fructus Crataegi, Endothelium Corneum Gigeriae Galli, and Excrementum Bombycis. The buzui mixture was delivered by gavage, and ethanol was delivered subsequent to the final treatment. The effects of buzui on the righting reflex, inebriation rates, and the survival curve are depicted. Blood alcohol concentrations, alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels, aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels, and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) levels were recorded. The activities of alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH), aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH), and superoxide dismutase (SOD), as well as malonaldehyde (MDA) levels, were also measured. Our results demonstrated that a traditional buzui recipe showed significant effects on promoting wakefulness and the prevention of acute alcohol intoxication, accelerating the metabolism of alcohol in the liver and reducing the oxidative damage caused by acute alcoholism.

Analysis of Chemical Constituents in Wuzi-Yanzong-Wan by UPLC-ESI-LTQ-Orbitrap-MS.

Wuzi-Yanzong-Wan (WZYZW), a classical traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) prescription containing Fructus Lych, Semen Cuscutae (fried), Fructus Rubi, Fructus Schisandrae chinensis (steamed) and Semen Plantaginis (fried with salt), is widely used to treat impotence, sterility, spermatorrhea, premature ejaculation, lumbago and post-micturation dribble. However, the chemical profile of WZYZW has not been established yet. In this work, a rapid and sensitive method for systematically screening and identifying the chemical constituents of WZYZW in both positive and negative ion modes using Ultra-Performance LC coupled with ESI-linear ion trap-Orbitrap tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-ESI-LTQ-Orbitrap-MS) has been developed. Based on the chromatographic and spectrometric data, and referring to the literature, we could tentatively identify 106 compounds, including organic acids, flavonoids, phenylpropanoids, alkaloids and terpenoids. Fourteen ingredients from Fructus Lych were identified, while 10 ingredients were from Semen Cuscutae (fried), 33 ingredients were from Fructus Rubi, 37 ingredients were from Fructus Schisandrae chinensis (steamed), and 20 ingredients were from Semen Plantaginis (fried with salt). The results may provide essential data for further quality control, pharmacological research and clinical evaluation of WZYZW. Furthermore, this study indicates the developed approach based on UPLC-ESI-LTQ-Orbitrap-MS is suitable for characterizing the chemical profiles of TCM prescriptions. This is the first report to provide a comprehensive analysis of the chemical constituents of WZYZW.

Comparative study between Ephedra sinica Stapf and Fructus Schisandrae Chinensis on ET-1 and 6-keto-prostaglandin F1α in rats with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.

The aim of this study was to evaluate differences in the effects of Ephedra sinica Stapf and Fructus Schisandrae Chinensis on angiogenesis in the treatment of bleomycin-induced rat idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. The rat models were created using bleomycin. The animals were divided into six groups: model, control, Ephedra alone, Schisandrae alone, combination of Ephedra and Schisandrae, and hydrocortisone alone. The treatments were administered for 28 days. After 7 and 28 days, the rats were sacrificed for pathological morphology examination, microvascular density determination, and angiogenesis-related cytokine examination. The Ephedra and hydrocortisone groups demonstrated significantly reduced alveolitis and pulmonary fibrosis grades compared with the model group (P < 0.05). The number of blood vessels in the Ephedra group was higher than that in the Schisandrae and combination therapy groups. At 7 days, the expression level of endothelin (ET)-1 in the model group was significantly higher than that in the normal group (P < 0.01). The level of 6-keto-prostaglandin F1α (6-keto-PGF1α) in the treatment group increased, and there were significant differences between the Ephedra group and the combination therapy and normal groups (P < 0.05). Ephedra inhibited the increase in the lung coefficient. The combination therapy prevented pulmonary artery injury and angiogenesis of the arteries by reducing the level of ET-1 and promoting the level of 6-keto-PGF1α in the blood. Ephedra and Schisandrae prevented alveolitis and the development of pulmonary fibrosis.

Direct analysis of herbal powders by pipette-tip electrospray ionization mass spectrometry

Conventional electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI-MS) is widely used for analysis of solution samples. The development of solid-substrate ESI-MS allows direct ionization analysis of bulky solid samples. In this study, we developed pipette-tip ESI-MS, a technique that combines pipette tips with syringe and syringe pump, for direct analysis of herbal powders, another common form of samples. We demonstrated that various herbal powder samples, including herbal medicines and food samples, could be readily online extracted and analyzed using this technique. Various powder samples, such as Rhizoma coptidis, lotus plumule, great burdock achene, black pepper, Panax ginseng, roasted coffee beans, Fructus Schisandrae Chinensis and Fructus Schisandrae Sphenantherae, were analyzed using pipette-tip ESI-MS and quality mass spectra with stable and durable signals could be obtained. Both positive and negative ion modes were attempted and various compounds including amino acids, oligosaccharides, glycosides, alkaloids, organic acids, ginosensides, flavonoids and lignans could be detected. Principal component analysis (PCA) based on the acquired mass spectra allowed rapid differentiation of closely related herbal species.

Optimization of vinegar-steaming process for Wuweizi (Fructus Schisandrae Chinensis) with response surface method

ObjectiveTo optimize the vinegar-steaming process of Wuweizi (Fructus Schisandrae Chinensis) using the response surface method (RSM) based on the Box-Behnken design. MethodsA regression model was constructed with the response variables, the content of Deoxyschizandrin, and the three explanatory factors: length of steaming time, the quantity of vinegar and length of moistening time to evaluate the effects on the processing of Wuweizi (Fructus Schisandrae Chinensis). ResultsThere was a linear relationship between the content of Deoxyschizandrin and the three explanatory factors. When the steaming time was 5.49 h, with 2.365 g of vinegar added and a moistening time of 4.13 h, the content of Deoxyschizandrin reached the maximum predicted value of 0.1076%, and under the conditions the average content of Deoxyschizandrin was 0.1058%. ConclusionThe correlation coefficient of the nonlinear mathematical model was relatively high and the model matched the data well, potentially providing a method for the study of the steaming process.

Mordant Effect on the Adsorption Kinetics and Thermodynamics of Schizandra on Wool

Schizandra is a mature fruit of Fructus Schisandrae Chinensis. The wool fabric was dyed with a natural schizandra dye. The adsorption kinetics and thermodynamics of using mordant and direct dyeing technology were studied. The influence of dyeing time and temperature on wool fabric were explored. The research result shows that the adsorption kinetics of schizandra dye on wool fabric meet the pseudo second-order kinetic model and the rate constant k2 indicated a faster adsorption rate of mordant dyeing than for direct dyeing. The negative value of ΔG validated the feasibility of the sorption process, and the sorption of schizandra dye on wool fabric is spontaneity, whichever the dyeing method is direct dyeing or mordant dyeing.

Inhibition mechanism of compound ethanol extracts from Wuweizi (Fructus Schisandrae Chinensis) on renal interstitial fibrosis in diabetic nephropathy model mice

ObjectiveTo evaluate inhibition effect and mechanism of compound ethanol extracts from Wuweizi (Fructus Schisandrae Chinensis), Chuanxiong (Rhizoma Chuanxiong) and Muli (Cocha Ostreae) (FRC) on glomerular and tubular interstitial fibrosis in streptozocin (STZ)-induced diabetic nephropathy (ND) model mice. MethodsTwenty-seven male C57BL/6 mice were divided randomly into 3 groups: nondibetic (ND), STZ-induced diabetic (D), and STZ-induced diabetic that were treated with 5 g · kg−1 · day−1of FRC by oral gavage (DFRC), with 9 in each group. The protein expressions of E-cadherin, α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), Plasminogen Activator Inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) in renal tissues were investigated by Western blotting. The expressions of fibronectin (FN) and α-SMA were detected by immunohistochemical method. The morphological changes of renal tissues were observed under a microscope. ResultsRenal tissues in the DFRC group showed a lessened degree of fibrosis. Meanwhile, the expressions of FN, α-SMA and PAI-1 were significantly lower in the DFRC group than those in the D group (all P<0.05). ConclusionFRC can ameliorate the DN in the C57BL/6 mice, and its mechanism may relate to inhibition on the epithelial to mesenchymal transdifferentiation, endothelial-myofibroblast transition and PAI-1 expression.

Gomisin N in the herbal drug gomishi (Schisandra chinensis) suppresses inducible nitric oxide synthase gene via C/EBPβ and NF-κB in rat hepatocytes

Gomishi is the dried fruit of Schisandra chinensis Baillon (Fructus Schisandrae chinensis, FSC) and has been used in Japanese Kampo medicine to treat inflammatory and liver diseases. However, it is unclear which constituent of FSC is primarily responsible for its pharmacological effects. FSC was extracted with methanol, fractionated by hydrophobicity, and further purified. We measured the effects of each fraction or constituent thereof on the induction of the inflammatory mediator nitric oxide (NO), which was induced by interleukin 1β in primary cultured rat hepatocytes. The hydrophobic fraction markedly suppressed NO induction and reduced the expression of inducible nitric oxide syntheses (iNOS) in interleukin 1β-treated hepatocytes. Gomisin N and γ-schizandrin, two major constituents of the hydrophobic fraction, significantly reduced NO production and the levels of the iNOS protein, mRNA, and antisense transcript. Gomisin N and γ-schizandrin also decreased the transcription of interleukin 1β and inflammatory chemokines. The overexpression of the p65 subunit of nuclear factor κB or CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein β increased the promoter activity of the iNOS gene in the firefly luciferase assay, whereas gomisin N decreased the promoter activity. The anti-inflammatory activity of FSC and its constituents were analysed, and we demonstrated that gomisin N and γ-schizandrin are involved in the hepatoprotective effect of the FSC extract, which has therapeutic potential for liver disease.

Dietary Fructus Schisandrae extracts and fenofibrate regulate the serum/hepatic lipid-profile in normal and hypercholesterolemic mice, with attention to hepatotoxicity

BackgroundSchisandra, a globally distributed plant, has been widely applied to health care products. Here, we investigated the effects of dietary intake of Fructus Schisandrae chinensis (FSC), both aqueous and ethanolic extracts (AqFSC, EtFSC), on serum/hepatic lipid contents in normal diet (ND)- and high-fat/cholesterol/bile salt diet (HFCBD)-fed mice.MethodsMale ICR mice were fed with ND or HFCBD, supplemented with 1 and 4% of AqFSC and EtFSC, respectively, or 0.1% fenofibrate, for 13 days. Lipids were determined according to the manufacture’s instructions.ResultsEtFSC, but not AqFSC, significantly elevated hepatic triglyceride (TG) in mice fed with ND. Feeding mice with HFCBD increased serum total cholesterol (TC), high density lipoprotein (HDL) and low density lipoprotein (LDL) levels as well as alanine aminotransferase (ALT) activity. Supplementation with AqFSC, EtFSC or fenofibrate significantly reduced hepatic TC and TG levels. However, AqFSC and EtFSC supplementation increased serum HDL and LDL levels in mice fed with HFCBD. Fenofibrate increased serum HDL and reduced serum LDL contents in hypercholesterolemic mice. EtFSC reduced, but fenofibrate elevated, serum ALT activity in both normal and hypercholesterolemic mice. While fenofibrate reduced serum TC, TG, and HDL levels in mice fed with ND, it increased serum HDL and reduced serum LDL and TC levels in mice fed with HFCBD. Hepatomegaly was found in normal and hypercholesterolemic mice fed with diet supplemented with fenofibrate.ConclusionsFeeding mice with AqFSC and EtFSC ameliorated the HFCBD-induced hepatic steatosis. In addition, EtFSC may offer protection against hepatic injury in hypercholesterolemic mice.

Application of ultrahigh‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry for analysis of lignans and quality control of Fructus Schisandrae chinensis

Lignans in the drug Fructus Schisandrae chinensis (FSC) exhibit potent biological activities such as antihepatotoxic, antiasthmatic, and antigastric ulcer. An ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry method has been developed to evaluate the quality of FSC through simultaneous qualitative and quantitative analysis of 15 lignans, including schizandrin A, B, and C; schizandrol A and B; gomisin B, C, D, E, G, H, J, and N; tigloylgomisin H; and angeloylgomisin H. The compounds were separated on a Zorbax Eclipse Plus C(18) (2.1 × 100 mm, 1.8 μm) column with a gradient elution of acetonitrile and 0.1% formic acid. Lignans were identified through their retention times, accurate mass data, and characteristic ions by comparison with a reference substance. All calibration curves showed perfect linear regression (r(2) > 0.99) within the test range. The limits of detection and quantitation fell in the ranges of 0.1-4 ng/mL for all the analytes with an injection of 10 μL. Good results were obtained with respect to repeatability (relative standard deviation <4.6%) and recovery (85.58-105.82%). Meanwhile, the entire sample analysis time was less than 10 min. This developed method provided a new basis for the overall assessment of the quality of FSC.

Studies on the Degranulation of RBL-2H3 Cells Induced by Traditional Chinese Medicine Injections

Aims: To study RBL-2H3 cell degranulation phenomena induced by some TCMIs through cell morphological and ultra-structural observation, released enzyme activity and establish RBL-2H3 cell degranulation test indicated by β- hexosaminidase activity as a method to evaluate TCMIs at nonclinical stage. Methods: RBL-2H3 cells were used to study the degranulation by co-culture with positive control C48/80 and some TCMIs through morphological and ultra-structure observation, β-hexosaminidase activity detection. RBL-2H3 cell degranulation test was established to detect β-hexosaminidase activity caused by 17 kinds of TCMIs and their ingredients. The cytotoxicity effect of some TCMIs on both RBL 2H3 and BRL cells was measured by CCK-8 assay. Results: Toluidine blue staining and ultra-structure of electronic microscope observation of treated RBL-2H3 cells showed degranulation morphologically. Detection of β-hexosaminidase activity in the supernatant of treated cells showed some TCMIs had elevated enzyme release rates. Further analysis of the ingredients and compound in Tanreqing Injection and Shengmai Injection showed Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi in Tanreqing Injection, Red ginseng and Fructus Schisandrae Chinensis in Shengmai Injection were responsible to the degranulation of RBL-2H3 cells. Osmotic pressures and pH influenced RBL-2H3 degranulation. High Osmotic pressure of Tanreqing Injection and low pH of chlorogenic acid at 2.5 and 5.0 mmol/L congcentration might be responsible to high β-hexosaminidase activity. Most of the TCMIs inducing degranulation had cytotoxicity effect for both RBL-2H3 and BRL cells, but some TCMIs inducing degranulation had no cytotoxicity effect. Conclusion: Some TCMIs can induce degranulation of RBL-2H3 cells; RBL-2H3 cell degranulation test can be used in non-clinical stage to detect the risk causing anaphylactoid reactions. Osmotic pressures and pH influenced RBL-2H3 degranulation, and they should be measured before testing. The mechanism of degranulation caused by some TCMIs is cytotoxic, and some are non-cytotoxic and may be through exicytosis.