Semen Cuscutae Research Articles

Syn-COM: A Multi-Level Predictive Synergy Framework for Innovative Drug Combinations.

Drug prediction and treatment using bioinformatics and large-scale modeling have emerged as pivotal research areas. This study proposes a novel multi-level collaboration framework named Syn-COM for feature extraction and data integration of diseases and drugs. The framework aims to explore optimal drug combinations and interactions by integrating molecular virtuality, similarity clustering, overlap area, and network distance. It uniquely combines the characteristics of Chinese herbal medicine with clinical experience and innovatively assesses drug interaction and correlation through a synergy matrix. Gouty arthritis (GA) was used as a case study to validate the framework's reliability, leading to the identification of an effective drug combination for GA treatment, comprising Tamaricis Cacumen (Si = 0.73), Cuscutae Semen (Si = 0.68), Artemisiae Annuae Herba (Si = 0.62), Schizonepetae Herba (Si = 0.73), Gleditsiae Spina (Si = 0.89), Prunellae Spica (Si = 0.75), and Achyranthis Bidentatae Radix (Si = 0.62). The efficacy of the identified drug combination was confirmed through animal experiments and traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) component analysis. Results demonstrated significant reductions in the blood inflammatory factors IL1A, IL6, and uric acid, as well as downregulation of TGFB1, PTGS2, and MMP3 expression (p < 0.05), along with improvements in ankle joint swelling in GA mice. This drug combination notably enhances therapeutic outcomes in GA by targeting key genes, underscoring the potential of integrating traditional medicine with modern bioinformatics for effective disease treatment.

Study on pharmacokinetic and tissue distribution of hyperin, astragalin, kaempferol-3-O-β-D-glucuronide from rats with multiple administrations of Semen Cuscutae processed with salt solution with effect of treating recurrent spontaneous abortion.

Semen Cuscutae is a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) that tonifies the kidneys and prevents miscarriage. According to Chinese medicine theory, kidney deficiency is one of the main causes of recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA). The previous studies showed that raw product of Semen Cuscutae (SP) and Semen Cuscutae processed with salt solution (YP) have ameliorative effects on RSA, and that YP is superior to SP. However, the active components of YP to ameliorate RSA remain unclear and require further studies. The objective of this study is to investigate the active components of YP in ameliorating RSA. First, a rat model of RSA was established using hydroxyurea in combination with mifepristone. Aqueous decoction of YP was given by gavage to rats. Second, pregnant rats were sampled on days 5, 7, 9, 10 and 12 during the modelling period. The content of Hyperin (HY), astragalin (AS) and kaempferol-3-O-β-D-glucuronide (KA) in blood and liver, heart, spleen, lung and kidney tissues were detected by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS). The pharmacodynamic indicators including progesterone (P), chorionic gonadotropin β (β-HCG), estradiol (E2), tumor necrosis factor-α (TFN-α), interleukin 4 (IL-4), and tryptophan (TRP) were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) Pearson's correlation analysis and grey relational analysis were used to establish the relationship between the pharmacodynamic indexes and chemical constituents. The pharmacokinetic results showed that the area under curve (AUC) value of KA was the largest. The tissue distribution results showed that astragalin was widely distributed in liver, heart, spleen, lung and kidney in the RSA model rats, while HY was detected only in the uterus, and KA was detected only in the kidney. The pearson correlationl analysis showed that KA was significantly and positively correlated with the contents of E2, P, β-HCG and TRP. Both AS and HY were significantly negatively correlated with the content of TNF-α, respectively. This study reveals the pharmacokinetics and tissue distribution of KA, AS and HY in rats with RSA. It was elucidated that all three were involved in the regulation of progesterone levels and immune function. It initially revealed the mechanism of action of YP in enhancing the improvement of RSA, and it provided a theoretical basis for the quality assessment of YP.

Quercetin promotes the proliferation, migration, and invasion of trophoblast cells by regulating the miR-149-3p/AKT1 axis.

Recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA) has a complex pathogenesis with an increasing prevalence and is one of the most intractable clinical challenges in the field of reproductive medicine. Quercetin (QCT) is an effective active ingredient extracted from Semen Cuscutae and Herba Taxilli used in traditional Chinese medicine for tonifyng the kidneys and promoting fetal restoration. Although QCT helps improve adverse pregnancy outcomes, the specific mechanism remains unclear. The trophoblast cell line HTR-8/SVneo cultured in vitro was treated with different concentrations of QCT, and the cell counting kit-8 assay, wound healing assay, transwell assay, and western blotting were used to evaluate the effects and mechanisms of QCT on the proliferation, migration, and invasion of HTR-8/SVneo cells, respectively. To assess the expression levels of miR-149-3p and AKT serine/threonine kinase 1 (AKT1), quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and western blotting analysis were performed. A dual-luciferase reporter assay was used to investigate the potential regulatory relationship between miR-149-3p and AKT1. Our results showed that QCT promoted the proliferation, migration, and invasion of trophoblast cells, promoted the expression of MMP2, MMP9, and vimentin, and downregulated the expression of E-cadherin. Mechanistically, QCT downregulated the expression of miR-149-3p and upregulated the expression of AKT1, and miR-149-3p directly targets AKT1, negatively regulating its expression. Overexpression of miR-149-3p and silencing of AKT1 counteracted the promotional effects of QCT on trophoblast proliferation, migration, and invasion. Taken together, QCT regulates the migration and invasion abilities of HTR-8/SVneo cells through the miR-149-3p/AKT1 axis, which may provide a promising therapeutic approach for RSA.

Determination of fifteen illegal colorants in traditional Chinese medicines by two hydrophobic DES-based microextraction methods coupled with an HPLC-DAD

The dyeing and adulteration of traditional Chinese medicines (TCMs) are continuously updated. Valuable analytical methods for the daily inspection of illegal colorant additives in TCMs and the preparations are in demand. Two deep eutectic solvent (DES)-based vortex-assisted liquid-liquid microextraction (VA-LLME) and ultrasonic-assisted solid-liquid microextraction (UA-SLME) were developed for the sample pretreatment of ten water-soluble colorants and five water-insoluble colorants, respectively, followed by an HPLC-DAD detection. Fifteen colorants were analyzed at four detection wavelengths within 40 min of gradient elution. The optimal DES of VA-LLME and UA-SLME were screened from 23 homemade DESs. The factors affecting the extraction efficiency of VA-LLME and UA-SLME were optimized systematically. Under the optimal conditions, ten water-soluble colorants analyzed by DES-based VA-LLME-HPLC-DAD showed good linearity (R ≥ 0.9995) within the optimal linear range. The LODs and LOQs were 0.2–1.0 μg g−1 and 0. 5–5.0 μg g−1, respectively. The recoveries of spiked samples were 80.2%–104.7 %, with RSDs ≤ 4.39 %. Five water-insoluble colorants of Sudan I‒IV and Sudan 7B analyzed by DES-based UA-SLME-HPLC-DAD showed good linearity (R ≥ 0.9995) within the optimal linear range. The LODs and LOQs were 0.8–8.0 μg g−1 and 4.0–40.0 μg g−1, respectively. The recoveries of spiked samples were 94.2%–103.1 %, with RSDs ≤ 4.81 %. The proposed DES-based VA-LLME-HPLC-DAD was successfully applied to analyze six water-soluble yellow colorants in Cuscutae Semen, salted Cuscutae Semen, and four water-soluble red colorants in Schisandrae Chinensis Fructus. The proposed DES-based UA-SLME-HPLC-DAD was successfully applied to analyze five water-insoluble red colorants in Dieda pills. The study provides analytical method options for routine tests of water-soluble, water-insoluble, or both water-soluble/-insoluble illegal colorant additives in herbal medical materials and preparations by the relevant proposed DES-based sample pretreatment method or a combination of the two proposed DES-based methods.

Wine- and stir-frying processing of Cuscutae Semen enhance its ability to alleviate oxidative stress and apoptosis via the Keap 1-Nrf2/HO-1 and PI3K/AKT pathways in H2O2-challenged KGN human granulosa cell line

BackgroundCuscutae Semen (CS) has been prescribed in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for millennia as an aging inhibitor, an anti-inflammatory agent, a pain reliever, and an aphrodisiac. Its three main forms include crude Cuscutae Semen (CCS), wine-processed CS (WCS), and stir-frying-processed CS (SFCS). Premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) is a globally occurring medical condition. The present work sought a highly efficacious multi-target therapeutic approach against POI with minimal side effects. Finally, it analyzed the relative differences among CCS, WCS and SFCS in terms of their therapeutic efficacy and modes of action against H2O2-challenged KGN human granulosa cell line.MethodsIn this study, ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography (UPLC)-Q-ExactiveTM Orbitrap-mass spectrometry (MS), oxidative stress indices, reactive oxygen species (ROS), Mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), real-time PCR, Western blotting, and molecular docking were used to investigate the protective effect of CCS, WCS and SFCS on KGN cells oxidative stress and apoptosis mechanisms.ResultsThe results confirmed that pretreatment with CCS, WCS and SFCS reduced H2O2-induced oxidative damage, accompanied by declining ROS levels and malondialdehyde (MDA) accumulation in the KGN cells. CCS, WCS and SFCS upregulated the expression of antioxidative levels (GSH, GSH/GSSG ratio, SOD, T-AOC),mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) and the relative mRNA(Nrf2, Keap1, NQO-1, HO-1, SOD-1, CAT). They inhibited apoptosis by upregulating Bcl-2, downregulating Bax, cleaved caspase-9, and cleaved caspase-3, and lowering the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio. They also exerted antioxidant efficacy by partially activating the PI3K/Akt and Keap1-Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathways.ConclusionsThe results of the present work demonstrated the inhibitory efficacy of CCS, WCS and SFCS against H2O2-induced oxidative stress and apoptosis in KGN cells and showed that the associated mechanisms included Keap1-Nrf2/HO-1 activation, P-PI3K upregulation, and P-Akt-mediated PI3K-Akt pathway induction.

Effect of hyperoside on osteoporosis in ovariectomized mice through estrogen receptor α/ITGβ3 signaling pathway

Osteoporosis is a highly prevalent bone metabolic disease in menopause due to estrogen deficiency. Hyperoside is a main compound in Semen cuscutae. Our team previously reported that Semen cuscutae has anti osteoporosis effect on ovariectomized mice by inhibiting bone resorption of osteoclasts. However, it is still unclear whether hyperoside affects osteoclast differentiation and bone resorption, and whether its anti-osteoporosis effect is related to an estrogen-like effect. This study investigates the potential mechanism of hyperoside's anti-osteoporotic effect by examining its impact on osteoclast differentiation and its relationship with the estrogen receptor. DXA, Micro-CT, TRAP staining, HE, and ELISA were used to assess the impact of hyperoside on OVX-induced osteoporosis. The effect of hyperoside on octeoclast differentiation was evaluated using TRAP activity assay, TRAP staining, F-actin staining. The activation of the estrogen receptor by hyperoside and its relationship with osteoclast differentiation were detected using dual-luciferase reporter assay and estrogen receptor antagonists. Our findings revealed that hyperoside (20–80 mg/kg) protect against OVX-induced osteoporosis, including increasing BMD and BMC and improving bone microstructure. Hyperoside inhibited osteoclast differentiation in a concentration dependent manner, whereas estrogen receptor α antagonists reversed its inhibitory effect osteoclast differentiation. Western blot results suggested that hyperoside inhibited TRAP, RANKL, c-Fos and ITG β3 protein expression in osteoclast or femoral bone marrow of ovariectomized mice. Our findings suggest that hyperoside inhibits osteoclast differentiation and protects OVX-induced osteoporosis through the ERα/ITGβ3 signaling pathway.

Synergistic Effect and Long-Term Efficacy of Shilong Jiedu Formula as An Adjuvant Chemotherapy in the Treatment of Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma Patients

Chemotherapy is the main treatment for diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), but the recurrence rate in patients after standard chemotherapy is high. Moreover, there is a significant issue of drug resistance, resulting in low remission rates when retreatment is required. Thus, there is a need to improve the overall efficacy of DLBCL treatment. In order to identify an effective approach to enhance DLBCL treatment outcomes without increasing adverse reactions, this study focused on DLBCL patients who visited our hospital from January to December 2020. The study included 53 patients who received the CHOP treatment plan in the CHOP group, and another 53 patients who received adjuvant chemotherapy with Shilong Jiedu Formula in the combination group. The treatment efficacy, quality of life, changes in molecular markers, and two-year progression-free survival were recorded for all patients, and differences between the two groups were compared. The research results reveal that patients who combined Shilong Jiedu Formula with chemotherapy achieved better remission rates compared to those who only received chemotherapy. Meanwhile, patients who combined Shilong Jiedu Formula with chemotherapy experienced higher quality of life and stronger immune function after treatment, indicating significant improvements (P &lt; 0.05) in these aspects compared to patients who solely received chemotherapy. Importantly, adjuvant chemotherapy with Shilong Jiedu Formula also demonstrated a certain extent of improvement in the progression-free survival rate of DLBCL patients. Therefore, this study suggests that the Shilong Jiedu Formula, primarily consisting of Rehmanniae Radix Praeparata and Cuscutae Semen, holds high value as an adjuvant chemotherapy for the treatment of DLBCL.

Mechanisms underlying the therapeutic effects of Semen cuscutae in treating recurrent spontaneous abortion based on network pharmacology and molecular docking.

Background: This paper aims to analyse the active components of Semen cuscutae (SC) by network pharmacology and screen the most stable compounds with tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) by molecular docking to explore the mechanisms of SC treatment of recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA) and provide a theoretical basis for drug development. Methods: The active compounds of SC and the potential inflammatory targets of RSA were obtained from the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology database and GeneCards, respectively. The RSA-SC target gene interaction network was obtained and visualized using the STRING database and Cytoscape software. GO and KEGG pathway enrichment analyses were obtained from DAVID to further explore the RSA mechanism and therapeutic effects of SC. Interactions between TNF-α and drugs were analysed by molecular docking. Treatment of human trophoblast cells with sesamin and TNF-α was carried out to detect their proliferative and apoptotic abilities, and WB assay was carried out to detect EGFR, PTGS2, and CASP3 protein expression. Results: Ten compounds and 128 target genes were screened from SC, of which 79 overlapped with RSA target inflammatory genes, which were considered potential therapeutic targets. Network pharmacological analysis showed that sesamin, matrine, matrol, and other SC compounds had a good correlation with the inflammatory target genes of RSA. Related genes included PGR, PTGS1, PTGS2, TGFB1, and CHRNA7. Several signalling pathways are involved in the pathogenesis of RSA, such as the TNF-α signalling pathway, HIF-1 signalling pathway, oestrogen signalling pathway, proteoglycans in cancer cells, and FoxO signalling pathway. Molecular docking results suggested that sesamin was the most suitable natural tumour necrosis factor inhibitor (TNFi). Sesamin can promote proliferation and inhibit apoptosis in human trophoblasts by downregulating EGFR and CASP3 expression and upregulating PTGS2 expression. Conclusion: Our findings play an important role and basis for further research into the molecular mechanism of SC treatment of RSA and drug development of TNFi.

Warming acupuncture-moxibustion combined with Bushen Qianggu Recipe effectively improves bone metabolism in osteoporosis patients.

Osteoporosis (OP) increases the risk of fractures in older adults, with no effective treatment options at present. To analyze the effects of warming acupuncture-moxibustion (WAM) combined with Bushen Qianggu Recipe on bone metabolism, bone mineral density (BMD), and pain intensity in OP patients. This retrospective study involved 103 patients with OP who were admitted to Wuhan Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine between July 2021 and December 2023. The control group consisted of 47 cases given WAM and the research group consisted of 56 cases receiving WAM + Bushen Qianggu Recipe (Rehmanniae Radix 15 g, Radix Rehmanniae Preparata 15 g, Poria cocos 10 g, yam 10 g, rhizoma alismatis 10 g, raspberry 10 g, medlar 10 g, Schisandra chinensis 10 g, Semen Cuscutae 10 g, Epimedium 10 g, Polygonatum sibiricum Red. 10 g, Drynaria 10 g, and Eucommia ulmoides 10 g). Bone metabolism markers (procollagen type I N-terminal propeptide (PINP) and bone-specific alkaline phosphatase (B-ALP)), BMD (lumbar vertebrae at L2-4, femoral neck, and distal 1/3 of the radius), pain intensity (visual analog score (VAS)), dysfunction (Oswestry Dysfunction Index), quality of life (Short-Form 36 Item Health Survey (SF-36)), and overall treatment efficacy were analyzed comparatively. Compared with the baseline (before treatment) and post-treatment levels in the control group, the research group showed a reduction in PINP and B-ALP, an increase in BMD at the lumbar vertebrae L2-4, femoral neck, and distal 1/3 of the radius, and a decrease in VAS and Oswestry Disability Index scores. Additionally, the research group performed better across various dimensions of the SF-36 scale and had a higher overall effective rate. WAM combined with Bushen Qianggu Recipe is effective in alleviating pain intensity and improving bone metabolism, BMD, and quality of life in OP patients; therefore it is deserving of clinical promotion.

Exploring the mechanism of Semen Cuscutae processed with salt solution in improving kidney deficiency miscarriage based on serum pharmacochemistry and network pharmacology

Semen Cuscutae (S) is an effective traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) in clinical practice for tonifying the kidney and calming the fetus. The effects of S on benefiting the kidney, fixing essence and calming the fetus were enhanced after salt processed. However, its bioactive substance and relevant mechanism have not been clearly yet. This study aims to explore the effective components of Semen Cuscutae processed with salt solution (Y) and its potential mechanism on the treatment of kidney deficiency miscarriage (KDM) with multi-components and multi-targets. In this study, serum pharmacochemistry and network pharmacology were used to investigate the active ingredients and molecular mechanism of Y in improving kidney deficiency abortion. A rat model of kidney deficiency miscarriage was established using hydroxyurea combine with mifepristone to assess the effect of S on tonifying the kidney and calming the fetus. The results show that 13 active ingredients derived from Y were identified by serum pharmacochemistry analysis. 92 common targets of active ingredients of Y and diseases were screened by network pharmacology, including 18 key targets (TP53, AKT1, TNF, IL6, VEGFA, CASP3, JUN, EGFR, etc). The KEGG pathway enrichment analysis showed that it was mainly concentrated in PI3K/Akt signaling pathway, and it was speculated that Y may protect pregnancy through PI3K/AKT and other signaling pathways with multi-component, multi-target and multi-pathway action characteristics. Animal pharmacodynamic analysis suggested that Y showed the better effect on the hydroxyurea combine with mifepristone induced abortion compared to the raw products of S. This study laid the foundation to identify the active components and potential mechanisms of Y in improving KDM by combining the in-tegrated methods of serum pharmacochemistry and network pharmacology.

LIPUS combined with TFSC alleviates premature ovarian failure by promoting autophagy and inhibiting apoptosis

Objective Premature ovarian failure (POF), also known as primary ovarian insufficiency, is a major cause of infertility in female worldwide. Excessive apoptosis and impaired autophagy in ovarian granulosa cells are the main pathological mechanisms of POF. The total flavonoids from semen cuscutae (TFSC) are often used in the treatment of gynecological endocrine disorders. In addition, low intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) is report as an effective method to improve ovarian function. This study aims to investigate the protective effect of POF by the combined use of TFSC and LIPUS. Methods POF rats model and granulosa cell model were successfully induced by tripterygium glycosides and cyclophosphamide, respectively. After that, model rats and cells received TFSC plus LIPUS administration. Then ovarian histomorphology, senescence, estrus cycle, and serum sex hormone levels were detected in rats. Ovarian tissue and granulosa cells autophagy and apoptosis levels were also assessed. Results Disturbed sex hormone levels, atrophied and senescent ovaries, and abnormal estrous cycle were found in POF rats. Meanwhile, cell autophagy was inhibited and cell apoptosis was activated in POF ovarian tissue and granulosa cells. However, TFSC combined with LIPUS improved these changes, and this combination treatment exhibited synergistic effects. The abnormal expression of the cell apoptosis-, autophagy-, and PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway-related proteins were also improved by combination treatment. Conclusion The study found that the combination of TFSC and LIPUS can alleviate POF by modulating cell autophagy and apoptosis. The findings may provide a viable scientific basis for POF treatment.

Risk factors and drug discovery for cognitive impairment in type 2 diabetes mellitus using artificial intelligence interpretation and graph neural networks.

Among the 382 million diabetic patients worldwide, approximately 30% experience neuropathy, and one-fifth of these patients eventually develop diabetes cognitive impairment (CI). However, the mechanism underlying diabetes CI remains unknown, and early diagnostic methods or effective treatments are currently not available. This study aimed to explore the risk factors for CI in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), screen potential therapeutic drugs for T2DM-CI, and provide evidence for preventing and treating T2DM-CI. This study focused on the T2DM population admitted to the First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan College of Traditional Chinese Medicine and the First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine. Sociodemographic data and clinical objective indicators of T2DM patients admitted from January 2018 to December 2022 were collected. Based on the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) Scale scores, 719 patients were categorized into two groups, the T2DM-CI group with CI and the T2DM-N group with normal cognition. The survey content included demographic characteristics, laboratory serological indicators, complications, and medication information. Six machine learning algorithms were used to analyze the risk factors of T2DM-CI, and the Shapley method was used to enhance model interpretability. Furthermore, we developed a graph neural network (GNN) model to identify potential drugs associated with T2DM-CI. Our results showed that the T2DM-CI risk prediction model based on Catboost exhibited superior performance with an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) of 0.95 (specificity of 93.17% and sensitivity of 78.58%). Diabetes duration, age, education level, aspartate aminotransferase (AST), drinking, and intestinal flora were identified as risk factors for T2DM-CI. The top 10 potential drugs related to T2DM-CI, including Metformin, Liraglutide, and Lixisenatide, were selected by the GNN model. Some herbs, such as licorice and cuscutae semen, were also included. Finally, we discovered the mechanism of herbal medicine interventions in gut microbiota. The method based on Interpreting AI and GNN can identify the risk factors and potential drugs associated with T2DM-CI.

The effect of semen cuscutae flavonoid on Sertoli cells and blood-testis barrier in male infertility: integrating network pharmacology and experimental verification

Context Semen cuscutae is commonly used to treat male infertility (MI), and semen cuscutae flavonoid (SCF) is the main active component of semen cuscutae. The therapeutic mechanism of SCF on MI is still unclear. Objective To clarify the mechanisms of SCF against MI. Materials and methods Network pharmacology and molecular docking were used to predict the potential pathways of SCF against MI. Primary Sertoli cells (SCs) were extracted from testis of 60-day-old rats and divided into Control, Model, and 3 treatment groups. The Control and Model groups were given normal medium, the treatment groups were treated with various concentrations of SCF-containing medium (200, 400, and 800 μg/mL). After 24 h, the Model and treatment groups were exposed to heat stress at 43 °C for 15 min. Western blotting and immunohistochemistry were used to detect the expression of targets. Result Network pharmacology indicated that the treatment of SCF on MI was closely related to PI3K-AKT signaling pathway. The in vitro experiments showed that SCF could up-regulated the expression of AKT, AR, occludin, and Ki67, and down-regulated the expression of CK-18 in SCs after heat stress. The AKT inhibitor could block this process. Conclusions SCF can treat MI by regulating the proliferation and differentiation of SCs and the integrity of the blood-testis barrier. The study could provide experimental basis for clinical research.

Immune modulatory effects of food supplement products Zeng Jian Heath Tonic and Zhen Yuan Capsule in elderly mice

ABSTRACT Immunosenescence is the degeneration of immunological organs and cells due to aging. Some plants and fungi may have anti-aging benefits through regulating immunosenescence. In this study, mice were fed with two dietary supplement products: Zeng Jian Health Tonic (ZJ) contains extracts from Lentinula edodes, Poria cocos, Tremella fuciformis, cassia seed, Flammulina velutipes, Fructus lycii, chrysanthemum, and mulberry. Zhen Yuan Capsule (ZY) contains extracts from Ganoderma lucidum, Semen cuscutae, Poria cocos, Schisandra chinensis, Codonopsis pilosula, and Atractylodes macrocephala. In addition, the immune organ index, immune cell functions, inflammatory cytokines, and antioxidant enzyme activities were evaluated. The combination of ZJ and ZY could restore the function of lymphocytes and NK cells; decrease the level of pro-inflammatory cytokines including IL-1α, IL-1β, and GM-CSF; increase the level of anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-5; and enhance superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase activities. Therefore, combining ZJ with ZY has anti-aging effects on elderly mice.

Amelioration of Sensorineural Hearing Loss through Regulation of Trpv1, Cacna1h, and Ngf Gene Expression by a Combination of Cuscutae Semen and Rehmanniae Radix Preparata

Sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) is a common condition that results from the loss of function of hair cells, which are responsible for converting sound into electrical signals within the cochlea and auditory nerve. Despite the prevalence of SNHL, a universally effective treatment has yet to be approved. To address this absence, the present study aimed to investigate the potential therapeutic effects of TS, a combination of Cuscutae Semen and Rehmanniae Radix Preparata. To this end, both in vitro and in vivo experiments were performed to evaluate the efficacy of TS with respect to SNHL. The results showed that TS was able to protect against ototoxic neomycin-induced damage in both HEI-OC1 cells and otic hair cells in zebrafish. Furthermore, in images obtained using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), an increase in the number of kinocilia, which was prompted by the TS treatment, was observed in the zebrafish larvae. In a noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) mouse model, TS improved hearing thresholds as determined by the auditory brainstem response (ABR) test. Additionally, TS was found to regulate several genes related to hearing loss, including Trpv1, Cacna1h, and Ngf, as determined by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) analysis. In conclusion, the findings of this study suggest that TS holds promise as a potential treatment for sensorineural hearing loss. Further research is necessary to confirm these results and evaluate the safety and efficacy of TS in a clinical setting.

Cuscutae semen alleviates CUS-induced depression-like behaviors in mice via the gut microbiota-neuroinflammation axis.

Introduction: Major depressive disorder is a mental disease with complex pathogenesis and treatment mechanisms involving changes in both the gut microbiota and neuroinflammation. Cuscutae Semen (CS), also known as Chinese Dodder seed, is a medicinal herb that exerts several pharmacological effects. These include neuroprotection, anti-neuroinflammation, the repair of synaptic damage, and the alleviation of oxidative stress. However, whether CuscutaeSemen exerts an antidepressant effect remains unknown. Methods: In this study, we evaluated the effect of CS on chronic unpredictable stress (CUS)-induced depression-like behaviors in mice by observing changes in several inflammatory markers, including proinflammatory cytokines, inflammatory proteins, and gliocyte activation. Meanwhile, changes in the gut microbiota were analyzed based on 16 S rRNA sequencing results. Moreover, the effect of CS on the synaptic ultrastructure was detected by transmission electron microscopy. Results: We found that the CS extract was rich in chlorogenic acid and hypericin. And CS relieved depression-like behaviors in mice exposed to CUS. Increased levels of cytokines (IL-1β and TNF-α) and inflammatory proteins (NLRP3, NF-κB, and COX-2) induced by CUS were reversed after CS administration. The number of astrocytes and microglia increased after CUS exposure, whereas they decreased after CS treatment. Meanwhile, CS could change the structure of the gut microbiota and increase the relative abundance of Lactobacillus. Moreover, there was a significant relationship between several Lactobacilli and indicators of depression-like behaviors and inflammation. There was a decrease in postsynaptic density after exposure to CUS, and this change was alleviated after CS treatme. Conclusion: This study found that CS treatment ameliorated CUS-induced depression-like behaviors and synaptic structural defects in mice via the gut microbiota-neuroinflammation axis. And chlorogenic acid and hypericin may be the main active substances for CS to exert antidepressant effects.

Molecular mechanism of Cuscutae semen-radix rehmanniae praeparata in relieving reproductive injury of male rats induced with tripterygium wilfordii multiglycosides: A tandem mass tag-based proteomics analysis.

Background: We determined the effects of Cuscutae semen (Cuscuta chinensis Lam. or Cuscuta australis R. Br.)-Radix rehmanniae praeparata (Rehjnannia glutinosa Libosch.) on the protein levels in testicular tissues of rats gavaged with tripterygium wilfordii multiglycosides (GTW) and elucidated the molecular mechanism underlying Cuscutae semen-Radix rehmanniae praeparata for relieving GTW-induced reproductive injury. Methods: A total of 21 male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into the control group, model group, and Cuscutae semen-Radix rehmanniae praeparata group based on their body weights. The control group was given 10mLkg-1 of 0.9% normal saline by gavage daily. The model group (GTW group) was administered with 12mgkg-1 GTW by gavage daily. Cuscutae semen-Radix rehmanniae praeparata group (the TSZSDH group) was administered with 1.56gkg-1 of Cuscutae semen-Radix rehmanniae praeparata granules daily according to their model group dosing. The serum levels of luteinizing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone, estradiol, and testosterone were measured after 12weeks of continuous gavage, and the pathological lesion of testicular tissues was observed. Differentially expressed proteins were evaluated by quantitative proteomics and verified by western blotting (WB) and Real-Time Quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-qPCR). Results: Cuscutae semen-Radix rehmanniae praeparata can effectively relieve pathological lesions of GTW-induced testicular tissues. A total of 216 differentially expressed proteins were identified in the TSZSDH group and model group. High-throughput proteomics revealed that differentially expressed proteins are closely associated with the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) signaling pathway, protein digestion and absorption, and protein glycan pathway in cancer. Cuscutae semen-Radix rehmanniae praeparata can significantly upregulate the protein expressions of Acsl1, Plin1, Dbil5, Plin4, Col12a1, Col1a1, Col5a3, Col1a2, Dcn, so as to play a protective role on testicular tissues. Acsl1, Plin1, and PPARγ on the PPAR signaling pathway were verified by WB and RT-qPCR experiments, which were found to be consistent with the results of proteomics analysis. Conclusion: Cuscutae semen and Radix rehmanniae praeparata may regulate the PPAR signaling pathway mediated Acsl1, Plin1 and PPARγ to reduce the testicular tissue damage of male rats caused by GTW.

Comparative Investigation Between Raw and Stir-Frying Processed Cuscutae Semen Based on HPLC Fingerprints Coupled With Chemometric Methods.

The curative effect of Cuscutae Semen (CS) could be adjusted after stir-frying, and it is difficult to distinguish between the raw CS and stir-fried processed Cuscutae Semen (SFCS) in clinical practice. The paper aims to establish the fingerprints of raw and fried Cuscutae Semen products by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) so that the compounds in raw and stir-fried products could be analyzed qualitatively and quantitatively. At the same time, the chemometrics method was used to evaluate the difference between CS and SFCS to provide reference for the research of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) CS. The raw and SFCS products' related substances were separated on a C18 column (250 mm × 4.6 mm, 5 µm) maintained at 30 °C (column temperature). The mobile phase comprised 0.1% formic acid aqueous solution (A) and acetonitrile (B), and a detection wavelength of 328 nm. The data were imported into statistical software for chemometric analysis. The developed HPLC method exhibits good linearity and has good systematic applicability. The content of these 12 compounds in the samples was further determined and the data analyzed by chemometrics. The results showed that the composition of CS changed on heating, and HCA showed that CS and SFCS could be clearly distinguished. PCA showed that six components caused differences, namely neochlorogenic acid, cryptophyllogenic acid, caffeic acid, quercetin, isorhamnetin, and kaempferol. This study unequivocally establishes a chromatographic fingerprint method intended for the extensive analysis of raw and stir-fried processed CS, which could substantially enhance the quality control of CS and the rational development and utilization of TCM resources. This method for the simultaneous quantification of multiple compounds in CS and SFCS revealed the components responsible for the differences between raw and processed products. This will provide support for quality control of this herbal medicine.

An Analysis of the Clinical Medication Rules of Traditional Chinese Medicine for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Based on Data Mining.

The aim of the present study is to investigate the rules and characteristics of the clinical administration of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) in the treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) using data mining methods. Medical cases of well-known contemporary TCM doctors treating PCOS were collected from the China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Chinese Biomedical Literature Service System, Wanfang, Chinese Scientific Journals Database, and PubMed; the data were then characterized, and a standardized database of medical cases was built. This database was used to (1) count the frequency of syndrome types and the herbs used in medical cases by data mining methods and (2) analyze drug association rules and systematic clustering methods. A total of 330 papers were included, involving 382 patients and a total of 1,427 consultations. The most common syndrome type was kidney deficiency; sputum stasis was the core pathological product and causative factor. A total of 364 herbs were used. Among them, 22 herbs were used >300 times, including Danggui (Angelicae Sinensis Radix), Tusizi (Semen Cuscutae), Fuling (Poria), Xiangfu (Nutgrass Galingale Rhizome), and Baizhu (Atractylodis Macrocephalae Rhizoma). Additionally, 22 binomial associations were obtained from the analysis of association rules; five clustering formulae were obtained via the analysis of high-frequency drug clusters; and 27 core combinations were obtained by k-means clustering of formula. In the treatment of PCOS, TCM is primarily employed as a combination approach involving tonifying the kidneys, strengthening the spleen, eliminating damp and dissolving phlegm, activating blood circulation, and resolving blood stasis. The core prescription is primarily a compound intervention based on the Cangfu Daotan pill, Liuwei Dihuang pill, and Taohong Siwu decoction.

Network Pharmacology-based Strategy for Predicting Active Ingredients and Potential Targets of Cuscutae semen and Lycii fructus in Spermatogenic Dysfunction

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Cuscutae semen (SC, Tusizi from Cuscuta chinensis Lam.) and Lycii fructus (FL, Gouqi from Lycium barbarum L.), are also used as a herb pair (SC-FL) to treat various ailments, including spermatogenic dysfunction (SD), a disease responsible for low fertility in males. Herein, we will further determine the bioactive components, component targets and partial molecular mechanisms of the herb pair for the treatment of SD. We employed the traditional Chinese medicine systems pharmacology database in combination with UHPLC analysis to analyze the active ingredients of the SC-FL herbal pair and explore its possible targets and underlying mechanism in treatment of spermatogenic dysfunction (SD). Moreover, we used a Sprague-Dawley (SD) rat model, generated by using glucosides of Tripterygium wilfordii (GTW), to evaluate the effect of SC-FL (and the underlying mechanism) on SD and reliability of certain key targets and pathways obtained from the pharmacology analysis. We identified 56 active ingredients in SC-LF affecting 41 overlapping gene signals that influenced SD treatment outcomes. 262 Gene Ontology (GO) terms and 170 pathways were yielded under analyses of Gene Ontology, Kyoto Encyclopedia of Gene and Genome pathwayfrom which we predicted that cell proliferation and apoptosis were the primary biological processes (BP) involved in the treatment of SD by SC-LF. The results showed that SC-FL treatment significantly improved the testicular organ coefficient along with sperm count and motility, while reduced testicular damage and testicular tissue cell apoptosis in SD model. Mechanistically, SC-FL significantly upregulated the expression levels of anti-apoptotic proteins AR and BCL2 and downregulated those of pro-apoptotic proteins BAD, BAX, cleaved caspase 3, and caspase 3. Collectively, these results indicated that SC-FL elicited a protective effect by potentially regulating apoptosis, thus suggesting that it will represent an effective reagent for male infertility.