Traditional Mongolian Medicine Research Articles

The mechanism of Traditional Mongolian medicine Daruqi particles on inflammation.

Daruqi is a Traditional Mongolian medicine with anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, and immune-regulatory effects. However, the mechanisms of its activity were unclear. In the present study, we confirmed the anti-inflammation effect of Daruqi on inflammation induced by LPS using animal models. Then, THP-1 cells treated with LPS was used as a positive control to explore the effective component of Daruqi on inflammation. We identified that Oxymatrine was the essential effector of Daruqi. Furthermore, the mechanism of Oxymatrine on inflammation was verified through proteomics analyses and validation assays. Our results demonstrated that Oxymatrine significantly reduced the levels of inflammatory cytokine, including IL-8, IL-1α, and IL-1β, in LPS induced THP-1 cells. Based on tandem mass tag -labeled quantitative proteomics, 428 differentially expressed proteins were screened, involved in TNF signaling pathway, Ferroptosis, IL-17 signaling pathway, etc. Among these differential expressed proteins (DEPs), 23 proteins were verified with parallel reaction monitoring analysis. The results showed that LPS treatment potentiated the protein level of PLEK, ACSL5 and CYBB, which could be reversed by Oxymatrine. By contrast, the protein expression of SPRYD4 and EMR2 was suppressed after LPS treatment, which could be rescued by Oxymatrine. In summary, Oxymatrine has excellent protective effects in LPS induced THP-1 cells. The five proteins, including PLEK, ACSL5, CYBB, SPRYD4 and EMR2, might serve as the targets of Oxymatrine, and as candidates regulating inflammation in future therapies.

Nose of dog, eye of elk, and wolf’s liver: exploring the interconnectedness of Indigenous health and foraging among the Dukha reindeer herders of Mongolia

ABSTRACT Recent studies show that Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) of Indigenous Peoples’ food systems and the transfer of that knowledge to their children are critical to physical and mental health, promote the transfer of language and culture, and further resilience. The aim of this exploratory, medical ecological study was to document TEK about foraging and plant use among the Dukha, a small, semi-nomadic reindeer herding community in Northern Mongolia. Field research was conducted at multiple remote camps in 2019 and 2023. Methods included semi-structured, open-ended interviews (N = 16), photo identification, and participant observation (N = 34 families). Study Informants identified 27 foraged plants. Results placed Dukha foraging practices within a framework illustrating the interconnectedness of their worldview and cultural norms, including the physical and spiritual aspects of the landscape, with health, illness, and curing. Dukha curative knowledge of the flora aligns with both Traditional Mongolian Medicine (TMM) and scientific studies on healing and preventative care. Through foraging and plant use, the Dukha balance relationships with the land and spirits, benefit from better nutrition and physical activity, utilise healing qualities of indigenous flora, and foster the intergenerational transfer of language and traditional knowledge.

Traditional Chinese and Mongolian Medicine Utilization Among Hypertensive Older Adults: Community Health Institutions, Hohhot, China

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and traditional Mongolian medicine (TMM) systems treat hypertension in community health institutions within China's Inner Mongolia autonomous region. This paper aims to investigate the use and influence of TCM and TMM among hypertensive older Chinese adults receiving treatment at these community health institutions. A cross-sectional survey method was used in Hohhot, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region. A total of 1,499 completed questionnaires were collected from eight community health service centers in four municipal districts of Hohhot between May and June 2022. In all, 662 (44.2%) respondents had used community hypertension treatment services in the last year. Of the 662 respondents, 213 (32.2%) used TCM hypertension treatment services, and 64 (9.7%) used TMM treatment services less frequently and at a lower cost. Chinese herbal medicine (63.5%) and Mongolian herbal medicine (74%) were used more than other treatments. Cognition, attitude, and service provision were the main factors that affected service utilization. Ethnicity also had an impact on TMM’s service utilization. Older Chinese adults with hypertension did not fully utilize the TCM and TMM services provided. Further promotion and expansion of traditional medicine are needed from relevant government and health institutions.

Integrated virtual screening and in vitro studies for exploring the mechanism of triterpenoids in Chebulae Fructus alleviating mesaconitine-induced cardiotoxicity via TRPV1 channel.

Background: In traditional Mongolian or Tibetan medicine in China, Chebulae Fructus (CF) is widely used to process or combine with aconitums to decrease the severe toxicity of aconitums. Researches in this area have predominantly focused on tannins, with few research on other major CF components for cardiotoxicity mitigation. The present study aimed to clarify whether triterpenoids can attenuate the cardiotoxicity caused by mesaconitine (MA) and investigate the mechanism of cardiotoxicity attenuation. Methods: Firstly, the pharmacophore model, molecular docking, and 3D-QSAR model were used to explore the mechanism of CF components in reducing the toxicity of MA mediated by the TRPV1 channel. Then three triterpenoids were selected to verify whether the triterpenoids had the effect of lowering the cardiotoxicity of MA using H9c2 cells combined with MTT, Hoechst 33258, and JC-1. Finally, Western blot, Fluo-3AM, and MTT assays combined with capsazepine were used to verify whether the triterpenoids reduced H9c2 cardiomyocyte toxicity induced by MA was related to the TRPV1 channel. Results: Seven triterpenoids in CF have the potential to activate the TRPV1 channel. And they exhibited greater affinity for TRPV1 compared to other compounds and MA. However, their activity was relatively lower than that of MA. Cell experiments revealed that MA significantly reduced H9c2 cell viability, resulting in diminished mitochondrial membrane potential and nuclear pyknosis and damage. In contrast, the triterpenoids could improve the survival rate significantly and counteract the damage of MA to the cells. We found that MA, arjungenin (AR), and maslinic acid (MSA) except corosolic acid (CRA) upregulated the expression of TRPV1 protein. MA induced a significant influx of calcium, whereas all three triterpenoids alleviated this trend. Blocking the TRPV1 channel with capsazepine only increased the cell viability that had been simultaneously treated with MA, and AR, or MSA. However, there was no significant difference in the CRA groups treated with or without capsazepine. Conclusion: The triterpenoids in CF can reduce the cardiotoxicity caused by MA. The MSA and AR function as TRPV1 agonists with comparatively reduced activity but a greater capacity to bind to TRPV1 receptors, thus antagonizing the excessive activation of TRPV1 by MA.

Study on the effect and mechanism of Zhenzhu Tongluo pills in treating diabetic peripheral neuropathy injury

BackgroundAs a traditional Mongolian medicine, Zhenzhu Tongluo pills has played a good neuroprotective function in clinic. However, the key mechanisms by which it works are poorly studied.ObjectivesTo study the effect and mechanism of Zhenzhu Tongluo pills in treating diabetic peripheral neuropathy injury.MethodsDiabetic peripheral neuropathy model was established by injecting STZ into rats. Physiological, behavioral, morphological and functional analyses were used to evaluate that the overall therapeutic effect of rats, ELISA, qRT-PCR, Western blot, immunohistochemical staining, HE staining and TUNEL staining were used to further study the related mechanism.ResultsZhenzhu Tongluo pills can significantly improve the physiological changes, behavioral abnormalities, structural and functional damage in diabetic peripheral neuropathy rats, which may be related to the anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic effects that realized by regulating PI3K/AKT, MAPK, NF-κB signaling pathways.ConclusionsZhenzhu Tongluo pills has neuroprotective effect, and anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptosis may be the important way of its function.

Historical background and current situation of pharmacy education in Mongolia.

In Mongolia, the medical education system with a long history has developed with its characteristics since ancient times. Modern medical education, including pharmacy education, began to grow in 1921. Before modern pharmaceutical science developed in Mongolia, pharmacy and pharmacy education were part of Traditional Mongolian Medicine and education. Medical knowledge and experience were transferred from generation to generation through simple teaching. From the sixteenth century, Manba Datsan was established in religious temples to teach Mongolian medicine through discipleship. Modern pharmacy education in Mongolia began in 1926 with the course training of pharmacy technicians, and pharmacist training started in 1961. Pharmacy technician training with a 3-year and pharmacist training with 5-year programs oriented on patient-centered pharmaceutical care are implemented in Mongolia. Pharmacy technicians can also study towards a B. degree in Pharmacy with an additional 3 years of training. As of 2023, seven state-owned and private higher education institutions offer pharmacy education and the number of institutions and students of pharmacy is expected to increase. The pharmacy education policy and the license examination type may be reformable, and the curricula should be regularly updated in line with international trends.

The application and sustainable development of coral in traditional medicine and its chemical composition, pharmacology, toxicology, and clinical research.

This review discusses the variety, chemical composition, pharmacological effects, toxicology, and clinical research of corals used in traditional medicine in the past twodecades. At present, several types of medicinal coral resources are identified, which are used in 56 formulas such as traditional Chinese medicine, Tibetan medicine, Mongolian medicine, and Uyghur medicine. A total of 34 families and 99 genera of corals are involved in medical research, with the Alcyoniidae family and Sarcophyton genus being the main research objects. Based on the structural types of compounds and the families and genera of corals, this review summarizes the compounds primarily reported during the period, including terpenoids, steroids, nitrogen-containing compounds, and other terpenoids dominated by sesquiterpene and diterpenes. The biological activities of coral include cytotoxicity (antitumor and anticancer), anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antibacterial, antiviral, immunosuppressive, antioxidant, and neurological properties, and a detailed summary of the mechanisms underlying these activities or related targets is provided. Coral toxicity mostly occurs in the marine ornamental soft coral Zoanthidae family, with palytoxin as the main toxic compound. In addition, nonpeptide neurotoxins are extracted from aquatic corals. The compatibility of coral-related preparations did not show significant acute toxicity, but if used for a long time, it will still cause toxicity to the liver, kidneys, lungs, and other internal organs in a dose-dependent manner. In clinical applications, individual application of coral is often used as a substitute for orthopedic materials to treat diseases such as bone defects and bone hyperplasia. Second, coral is primarily available in the form of compound preparations, such as Ershiwuwei Shanhu pills and Shanhu Qishiwei pills, which are widely used in the treatment of neurological diseases such as migraine, primary headache, epilepsy, cerebral infarction, hypertension, and other cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. It is undeniable that the effectiveness of coral research has exacerbated the endangered status of corals. Therefore, there should be no distinction between the advantages and disadvantages of listed endangered species, and it is imperative to completely prohibit their use and provide equal protection to help them recover to their normal numbers. This article can provide some reference for research on coral chemical composition, biological activity, chemical ecology, and the discovery of marine drug lead compounds. At the same time, it calls for people to protect endangered corals from the perspectives of prohibition, substitution, and synthesis.

Explore the Constituents and Mechanism of Traditional Chinese Medicine Preparation Zhachong Shisan Pills Based on HPLC-QTOF-MS and Network Pharmacology

Introduction: Th study aims to establish the chromatographic fingerprint of Zhachong Shisan pills (ZSP), and to explore its active components and mechanism of analgesic and anti-inflammatory action. Method: First, the Personal Compound Database and Library (PCDL) of ZSP was constructed through literature mining, and then the chemical composition and fingerprint of methanol extractions from 8 batches of ZSP were studied using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography with Quadrupole Time-Of-Flight tandem Mass Spectrometry (HPLC-QTOF-MS) technology. Furthermore, network pharmacology was used to explore the active compounds, potential targets, and signal pathways of analgesic and anti-inflammatory activity of ZSP. A total of 102 compounds were detected in positive and negative ion mode. Results: Fifty-six characteristic peaks in positive ion mode and 78 characteristic peaks in negative ion mode were confirmed as common peaks in the fingerprint of ZSP. Through network pharmacology research, the effective components, key targets, and signal pathways of ZSP for the treatment of cerebral apoplexy by analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects were all analyzed. Conclusion: This study explained the substance basis of the analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects of Zhachong Shisan Pills, and explores its possible mechanisms, providing ideas for rational clinical medication and in-depth pharmacological research.

Isolation and identification of endophytic fungi involved in the promotion of sesquiterpene accumulation in Syringa pinnatifolia

Abstract Background The stem of Syringa pinnatifolia is used as traditional Mongolian medicine for the treatment of cardiopulmonary diseases, in which sesquiterpenes are regarded as the primary medicinal compounds. However, only S. pinnatifolia from natural stands is able to produce medicinal-grade stems when compared with that from cultivated stands. Despite the need to develop an effective technique to promote sesquiterpene accumulation in cultivated stands to ensure sustainable resource production, studies on the potential use of fungal endophytes as fungal elicitors were limited. Objective This study explored the potential of selected endophytic fungi isolated from the stems of wild and cultivated S. pinnatifolia and further examined their efficacy in promoting sesquiterpene production in S. pinnatifolia calli. Results Among the 11 fungal groups, Valsa sp, isolated from wild S. pinnatifolia, emerged as a promising fungal elicitor for promoting sesquiterpene accumulation in S. pinnatifolia. This conclusion is drawn from the production of a humulane-type sesquiterpene, known to be one of the most prevalent subtypes of sesquiterpenes in S. pinnatifolia. In addition, it was demonstrated that methyl jasmonate and salicylic acid displayed little effect on sesquiterpene accumulation in S. pinnatifolia. Conclusions The findings of this study lay a foundation for using fungal endophytes to promote sesquiterpene production in S. pinnatifolia. This contribution could subsequently advance the development of the local traditional medicine industry and aid in the protection of wild S. pinnatifolia.

In vitro anti-severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 effect of Ephedra przewalskii Stapf extract

Ethnopharmacological relevanceThe terrestrial stems of Ephedra (Ephedra spp.; including Ephedra sinica Stapf and Ephedra przewalskii Stapf) extracts are used in traditional medicines in East Asia. In Japan, the Kampo formula containing E. sinica extract is prescribed for the treatment of the common cold, influenza virus infections, and mild symptoms of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Although ephedrine alkaloids in E. sinica exert antitussive effects, they may have side effects associated with the sympathetic nervous system. E. przewalskii extract, a drug used in traditional Uyghur and Mongolian medicine, is considered to be free of ephedrine alkaloids and is a promising candidate for the treatment of infectious diseases. However, its use is currently limited because evidence of its antiviral efficacy remains inconclusive.Aim of the study: We compared the anti-severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) effects of E. przewalskii and E. sinica extracts in vitro. Additionally, we examined the differences in their antiviral effects against different SARS-CoV-2 strains. Materials and methodsVeroE6/TMPRSS2 cells were infected with SARS-CoV-2 (Conventional, Delta, and Omicron strains—BA.1, BA.2, BA.4, and BA.5), and lysates prepared from each herbal extract were added. The infectious titer was determined using the 50% tissue culture infectious dose (TCID50) method; in turn, the half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) was calculated for each extract to compare the antiviral efficacy of E. sinica and E. przewalskii extracts. Further, the extracts were compared with remdesivir for their antiviral efficacy against the conventional viral strain. To verify the effect of the inactivation of virus particles, these extracts were added to each SARS-CoV-2 strain, and the infectious titers were determined using the TCID50 method. ResultsThe antiviral efficacy (i.e., IC50) of the E. przewalskii extract against each SARS-CoV-2 strain was 2.7–10.8-fold greater than that of the E. sinica extract. The antiviral efficacy of the E. przewalskii extract against conventional viral strains was compared with that of remdesivir, which was 1/27.6 of remdesivir's efficacy. The E. sinica extract showed minimal inactivation of virus particles of each strain, whereas the E. przewalskii extract resulted in substantial viral inactivation. ConclusionsThe E. przewalskii extract showed higher antiviral activity against SARS-CoV-2 than the E. sinica extract. Overall, our study suggests that E. przewalskii extract can be used for the treatment of viral infections, including COVID-19.

Antipyretic and Anti-inflammatory Effects of Sanchen Pediatric Antipyretic Paste

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the antipyretic and anti-inflammatory effects and mechanisms of Sanchen Pediatric antipyretic Paste (SPAP). background: Fever is regarded as a physiological defense phenomenon of the body against diseases to a certain extent, and it can prevent the risk of infection. However, if fever goes beyond a certain range or a high fever status lasts for a long time, it can not only reduce the immunity of human body, but also cause serious damage to various organs and tissues. Especially for infants and young children, the disease develops rapidly, which is easy to induce convulsions and even cause irreversible harm. Western medicine has a quick antipyretic effect, but it has certain side effects on children, especially infants.According to the clinical theory of traditional Mongolian medicine, Sanchen Pill is effective in treating infantile febrile diseases with low side effects. In this study, Sanchen Pill was modified into gel paste with high compliance for children and named as Sanchen Pediatric antipyretic paste (SPAP). Methods: Rats were randomly divided into 7 groups: negative control group, positive control group, positive treatment group, SPAP high-dose, medium-dose and low-dose groups, and blank substrate group. Except normal control group, rats in other groups were subcutaneously injected with 10% dry yeast suspension (10mL/kg) on the back to establish a fever model, and the normal group was given the same volume of saline. At the 4 h and 7 h after modeling, each treatment group was subjected to corresponding SPAP intervention. Anal temperature was measured every one hour after modeling for 10 consecutive times. The average temperature-rise curve, maximum temperature and body temperature response index (TRI) were calculated to evaluate the efficacy of SPAP. After the last temperature measurement, abdominal aortic blood was collected, and serum was separated from blood. The levels of IL-6, TNF-α and CRP in serum were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results: The body temperature of the positive control group was significantly increased (p < 0.01) 4 hours after model establishment, and that of the SPAP groups significantly decreased (p < 0.01) after 5 hours of the model establishment. The levels of Serum IL-6, TNF-α and CRP were significantly decreased (p < 0.01) in a dose-dependent manner. Conclusion: SPAP has an obvious antipyretic effect on fever caused by dry yeast in rats. One of its antipyretic mechanisms may be associated with inhibiting inflammatory reactions by reducing the production or accelerating the degradation of endogenous thermogenic cytokines, such as IL-6, TNF- α, and CRP. result: The body temperature of the positive control group was significantly increased (p < 0.01) 4 hours after model establishment, and that of the SPAP groups were significantly decreased (p < 0.01) after 5 hours of model establishment, the levels of Serum IL-6, TNF-α and CRP were significantly decreased (p < 0.01) with a dose dependent manner. other: Nothing else

Proteome-wide Profiling Reveals Molecular Mechanism Underlying the Therapeutic Effect of Mongolian Medicine Sulongga-4 on Pyloric Ligationinduced Gastroduodenal Ulcer in Rats

background: Gastroduodenal ulcer is one of the common global gastrointestinal diseases. Sulongga-4 is a traditional Mongolian medicine prescription used for the treatment of gastroduodenal ulcer. However, molecular mechanism underlying the therapeutic effect of Sulongga-4 on gastroduodenal ulcer in Proteome has not been clarified. objective: Explore the molecular mechanism behind the therapeutic efficacy of traditional Mongolian medicine Sulongga-4 on the pyloric ligation-induced gastroduodenal ulcer in rats method: Gastroduodenal was induced by pyloric ligation in rats. The pathological changes of gastric and duodenal tissues were observed first, and then the serum levels of AST and ALT were measured. The significantly different proteins were verified by western blot and qRT-PCR. result: The proteomics results showed that the Mongolian medicine Sulongga-4 might act on pyloric ligation-induced gastroduodenal ulcer through differentially expressing several proteins including RPL35, RPL37 and LOC102548628 in gastric tissue, as well as Serpin b1a, Serpin b6a and Vtn in duodenal tissue via regulating ribosome, alcoholism and amoebiasis, complement and coagulation cascades pathways. In addition, the changes of serum AST and ALT levels in rats showed that gastroduodenal ulcer was associated with liver injury. conclusion: Sulongga-4 shows robust therapeutic effect against gastric duodenal ulcer. And this therapeutic effect is mainly associated with pathways of Ribosome, Alcoholism in gastric tissue, and Amoebiasis, Complement and coagulation cascades in duodenal tissue.

An integrated network analysis, RNA-seq and in vivo validation approaches to explore the protective mechanism of Mongolian medicine formulae Ruda-6 against indomethacin-induced gastric ulcer in rats.

Gastric ulcer (GU) is one of the most prevalent digestive diseases that seriously affects people's health. Previous studies have demonstrated the anti-GU effect of Ruda-6 (RD-6), a classic formulae of traditional Mongolian medicine. However, the underlying mechanism of RD-6 against GU remains elusive. Thus, we conducted an integrative approach of network analysis, RNA-seq, and in vivo validation experiment to elucidate the therapeutic mechanisms of RD-6 in preventing GU. A network analysis was performed to predict the potential targets of RD-6. Rats were pretreated with RD-6 at different doses for 21days, followed by GU induction with indomethacin injection. The ulcer index and inhibition rates were calculated, and the levels of inflammatory related factors were determined by ELISA. The gastroprotective mechanism of RD-6 against ulceration was verified by RNA-seq and the key pathway was detected by in vivo validation. As the network analysis predicted, RD-6 exerts anti-GU effects by regulating 75 targets and 160 signaling pathways. Animal experiment results suggested that pretreatment with RD-6 significantly ameliorated the gastric mucosal injury and inflammatory response, as evidenced by a reduced ulcer index, decreased interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and IL-17 levels, and increased prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) levels in the GU model rats induced by indomethacin. RNA-seq data identified four potential hub genes that were primarily involved in the IL-17 signaling pathway. Furthermore, in vivo validation experiment showed that RD-6 inhibited the IL-17 signaling pathway by down-regulating the expression of IL17RA, proto-oncogene C-Fos (FOS), IL1B and prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase 2 (PTGS2). Taken together, the present study provides evidence that RD-6 could effectively protect against indomethacin-induced GU, which might be attributed to suppressed inflammation. The IL-17 signaling pathway may be one of the crucial mechanisms that mediates the effect of RD-6.

The mechanism by which Naru 3 pill protects against intervertebral disc cartilage endplate degeneration based on network pharmacology and experimental verification

ContextNaru 3 pill is a traditional Mongolian medicine for the treatment of intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD), but the mechanism is not yet clear.ObjectiveThis study investigated the mechanism of Naru 3 pill in the treatment of IDD.Materials and methodsActive ingredients and related targets of Naru 3 pill, as well as IDD-related genes, were collected from public databases. The analysis was performed by protein‒protein interaction network analysis, gene ontology and Kyoto Gene and Genome Encyclopedia (KEGG) functional enrichment analysis, molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations. Finally, the network pharmacology results were validated by in vitro experiments.ResultsNetwork analysis showed that sesamin, piperine and ellagic acid were potential key components and CASP3, BAX and BCL2 were key targets. KEGG analysis indicated the apoptotic pathway as a potential pathway. Molecular docking showed that sesamin interacted better with the targets than the other components. The results of molecular dynamics simulations indicated that the three systems BAX-sesamin, BCL2-sesamin and CASP3-sesamin were stable and reasonable during the simulation. In vitro experiments showed that sesamin had the least effect on cell growth and the most pronounced proliferation-promoting effect, and so sesamin was considered the key component. The experiments confirmed that sesamin had antiapoptotic effects and reversed the expression of CASP3, BAX and BCL2 in degeneration models, which was consistent with the network pharmacology results. Furthermore, sesamin alleviated extracellular matrix (ECM) degeneration and promoted cell proliferation in the IDD model.ConclusionThe present study suggested that Naru 3 pill might exert its therapeutic and antiapoptotic effects on IDD by delaying ECM degradation and promoting cell proliferation, which provides a new strategy for the treatment of IDD.

Paradigm shift in traditional Mongolian medicine in the 18th century

As Thomas Kuhn stated in his book "The Structure of Scientific Revolutions", revolution is an example of advanced science made by a successful paradigm shift from one to another. At that time, Kuhn's idea was a revolution in itself, becoming the primary method for scientific change. It became a basis for science paradigm policy shift and since, has been a model for gradual reform. Identifying and incorporating this model into the countries' scientific policy and reform is extremely important. The applicability of the used model can be judged by the outcomes resulting in the paradigm shift. By the way, not every scientific progress results in revolution. However, we would like to note that a laggard period with weak mental development is ended by an intellectual outburst. In other words, although in the 17th century, Mongols accepted Tibetan medicine within the framework of the "Four Medical Tantras" with recognition and common scientific mind, later in the 18th century, they thought beyond the box of the "Four Medical Tantras" and created the opportunity to develop a new paradigm. This shift made a valuable contribution to the establishment of, in a broader sense, Mongolian medicine and, in a narrow sense, traditional Mongolian medicine.

Systematic Exploration of the Potential Material Basis and Molecular Mechanism of the Mongolian Medicine Shudage-4 in Attenuating Stress-Induced Gastric Ulcer in Rat.

Shudage-4, an ancient and well-known formula in traditional Mongolian medicine comprising four different types of traditional Chinese medicine, is widely used in the treatment of gastric ulcers. However, the potential material basis and molecular mechanism of Shudage-4 in attenuating stress-induced gastric ulcers remain unclear. This study aimed to first explore the potential material basis and molecular mechanism of Shudage-4 in attenuating gastric ulcers in rats. The chemical constituents and transitional components in the blood of Shudage-4 were identified by ultra-performance liquid chromatography time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-TOF-MS). The rat gastric ulcer model was induced by water immersion restraint stress (WIRS). The ulcer damage to gastric tissue was measured at the gross anatomical level and pathological level by hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining of gastric tissue. RNA sequencing of gastric tissue and plasma metabolomics were performed to analyze the mechanism of Shudage-4 against gastric ulcers. A Pearson correlation analysis was performed to explore the association between serum metabolites and gene expression of gastric tissue. A total of 30 chemical constituents were identified in Shudage-4 by UPLC-TOF-MS. Among 30 constituents, 13 transitional components in the blood were considered as the potential material basis. Shudage-4 treatment had a significant effect on WIRS-induced gastric ulcers in rats. HE staining of gastric tissue illustrated that WIRS-induced ulcer damage was suppressed by Shudage-4 treatment. RNA sequencing of gastric tissue showed that 282 reversed expression genes in gastric tissue were related to Shudage-4 treatment, and gene set enrichment analysis revealed that Shudage-4 treatment significantly inhibited gene set expression related to reactive oxygen species (ROS), which was also validated by detecting rat gastric tissue MDA, GSH, SOD, GSH-Px, and CAT activities. The plasma metabolomic data demonstrated that 23 significantly differential metabolites were closely associated with the Shudage-4 treatment. The further multiomics joint analysis found that significantly upregulated 5 plasma metabolites in Shudage-4-treated rats compared to model rats were negatively correlated with gene set expression related to ROS in gastric tissue. Shudage-4 alleviated WIRS-induced gastric ulcers by inhibiting ROS generation, which was achieved by regulating plasma metabolites level.

Mongolian medicine formulae Ruda-6 alleviates indomethacin-induced gastric ulcer by regulating gut microbiome and serum metabolomics in rats

Ethnopharmacological relevanceRuda-6 (RD-6), a typical traditional Mongolian medicine formulae consisting of 6 herbs, has been traditionally used in treating gastric disorders. Even though it has been shown to protect against gastric ulcers (GU) in animal models, the gut microbiome and serum metabololite-related mechanisms that prevent GU are not well understood. Aim of the studyThis study was conducted to evaluate the gastroprotective mechanism of RD-6 associated with the alteration of the gut microbiome and serum metabolic profiles in GU rats. Materials and methodsRD-6 (0.27, 1.35 and 2.7 g/kg) or ranitidine (40 mg/kg) were orally administered in rats for three weeks before the induction of gastric ulcer using indomethacin (30 mg/kg, single oral dose). The gastric ulcer index, ulcer area, H&E staining, and the levels of TNF-α, iNOS, MPO and MDA were quantified to evaluate the ulcer inhibitory effects of RD-6. Then, 16S rRNA gene sequencing combined with LC-MS metabolic profiling was performed to investigate the effect of RD-6 on the gut microbiota and serum metabolites in rats. Moreover, a spearman analysis was used to calculate the correlation coefficient between the different microbiota and the metabolites. ResultsRD-6 inhibited the gastric lesion damage caused by indomethacin in rats, decreased the ulcer index by 50.29% (p < 0.05), reduced the levels of TNF-α, iNOS, MDA and MPO in gastric tissue. Additionally, RD-6 reshaped the diversity and microbial composition, and reversed the reduced bacteria including [Eubacterium]_xylanophilum group, Sellimonas, Desulfovibrio, and UCG-009, and the increased bacteria Aquamicrobium caused by indomethacin induction. Furthermore, RD-6 regulated the levels of metabolites including amino acids and organic acids, and these affected metabolites were involved in taurine and hypotaurine metabolism and tryptophan metabolism. Spearman analysis revealed that the perturbed gut microbiota were closely related to the changes in differential serum metabolites. ConclusionIn view of the 16S rRNA gene sequencing and LC-MS metabolic results, the present study suggests the mechanism of RD-6 ameliorating GU via modulating intestinal microbiota and their metabolites.

Seabuckthorn Wuwei Pulvis attenuates chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in rat through gut microbiota-short chain fatty acids axis

Ethnopharmacological relevanceSeabuckthorn Wuwei Pulvis (SWP) is a traditional Mongolian medicine used in China. It is composed of Hippophae rhamnoides (berries, 30 g), Aucklandiae costus Falc. (dry root, 25 g), Vitis vinifera F. Cordifolia (berries, 20 g), Glycyrrhiza uralensis Fisch. (dry root, 15 g), and Gardenia jasminoides J. Ellis (desiccative ripe fruit, 10 g). It is clinically applied in the treatment of chronic cough, shortness of breath and phlegm, and chest distress. Past studies demonstrated that Seabuckthorn Wuwei Pulvis improved lung inflammation and chronic bronchitis in mice. However, the effect of Seabuckthorn Wuwei Pulvis on chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in rats and the underlying action mechanism is not fully understood. Aim of the studyTo evaluate the anti-COPD effect of Seabuckthorn Wuwei Pulvis and investigate whether its ameliorative effect is correlated with the composition of gut microbiota and its metabolites. Materials and methodsThe effects of Seabuckthorn Wuwei Pulvis on a COPD rat model were established by exposure to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and smoking. These effects were then evaluated by monitoring the animal weight, pulmonary function, lung histological alteration, and the levels of inflammatory factors (tumor necrotic factor [TNF]-α, interleukin [IL]-8, IL-6, and IL-17). Furthermore, the serum LPS and fluorescein isothiocyanate-dextran levels were detected by using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and fluorescence microplate reader, respectively. Tight junction proteins (ZO-1 and occludin-1) in the small intestine were detected by performing real-time quantitative polymerase chain reactions and Western blotting to evaluate the intestinal barrier function. The contents of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) in the feces of rats were determined by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. 16S rDNA high throughput sequencing was used to investigate the effect of SWP on the gut microbiota of COPD rats. ResultsTreatment with low and median doses of SWP significantly increased the pulmonary function (forced expiratory volume [FEV] 0.3, forced vital capacity [FVC], and FEV0.3/FVC), decreased the levels of TNF-α, IL-8, IL-6, and IL-17 in the lung, and attenuated the infiltration of inflammatory cells into the lung. The low and median doses of SWP shaped the composition of gut microbiota, which increased the abundances of Ruminococcaceae, Christensenellaceae, and Aerococcaceae, increased the productions of acetic acid, propionic acid, and butyric acid, and upregulated the expression of ZO-1 and occludin-1 in the small intestine of COPD rats. ConclusionSWP improved pulmonary functions and inhibited the inflammatory response by shaping the gut microbiota, increasing SCFA production, and strengthening the intestinal barrier function in rats with COPD induced by LPS and smoking.

Dipsacus and Scabiosa Species-The Source of Specialized Metabolites with High Biological Relevance: A Review.

The genera Dipsacus L. and Scabiosa L. of the Caprifoliaceae family are widely distributed in Europe, Asia, and Africa. This work reviews the available literature on the phytochemical profiles, ethnomedicinal uses, and biological activities of the most popular species. These plants are rich sources of many valuable specialized metabolites with beneficial medicinal properties, such as triterpenoid derivatives, iridoids, phenolic acids, and flavonoids. They are also sources of essential oils. The genus Dipsacus has been used for centuries in Chinese and Korean folk medicines to treat bone (osteoporosis) and joint problems (rheumatic arthritis). The Korean Herbal Pharmacopoeia and Chinese Pharmacopoeia include Dipsaci radix, the dried roots of D. asperoides C.Y.Cheng & T.M.Ai. In addition, S. comosa Fisch. ex Roem & Schult. and S. tschiliiensis Grunning are used in traditional Mongolian medicine to treat liver diseases. The current scientific literature data indicate that these plants and their constituents have various biological properties, including inter alia antiarthritic, anti-neurodegenerative, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anticancer, and antimicrobial activities; they have also been found to strengthen tendon and bone tissue and protect the liver, heart, and kidney. The essential oils possess antibacterial, antifungal, and insecticidal properties. This paper reviews the key biological values of Dipsacus and Scabiosa species, as identified by in vitro and in vivo studies, and presents their potential pharmacological applications.

Mini Review on Polymer-based Nano Enable System for Targeted Delivery of Chalcone Derivatives against Cancerous Tissues: An Effective Treatment Approach

Abstract: Nanotechnology augmentation have enabled the creation of innovative colloidal preparations that can modify the pharmacological characteristics of medications. Numerous effective applications in the treatment of cancer have been made possible by the distinctive physicochemical and technological characteristics of therapies based on nanomaterials. To facilitate and maximize the interaction between cells and tissues, it is necessary to examine and modify the size, shape, charge, and patterning of nanoscale therapeutic molecules. The flavonoids chalcones and their natural scaffolds provide a variety of biological effects crucial for creating medicines. Plant-based anticancer medicines represent a promising scientific and business opportunity that should be investigated. By using traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) therapies, diseases can be avoided, and healthcare can be enhanced. Traditional Chinese medicine is safe, straightforward, and reasonably priced. There are numerous treatments for chronic, geriatric, and incurable diseases. Heterocyclic equivalents of chalcones have a variety of biological properties. One of them is its anti-cancer properties, and as a result Chalcones have drawn a huge interest in the study of malignancy. Licorice is an essential primary ingredient in many traditional folk medicines, including Chinese and Mongolian medicine. Research on chalcone scaffolds with strong growth-inhibitory activity in tumor cell lines was influenced by the rising interest in this medicinal molecule, and numerous papers on these scaffolds are now accessible. It is necessary to do a thorough examination before chalcone congeners can be developed as a prodrug or primary chemical to treat cancer. To create a focused and efficient drug delivery system for cancer treatment, we shall discuss chalcone derivatives and their nano-enabled drug delivery systems in this article. It has been discussed how polymeric nanoparticles might effectively localize in particular tumor tissues and act as drug delivery vehicles for anticancer drugs due to their physicochemical characteristics. A promising strategy to increase the effectiveness of various tumor treatments is the nanoencapsulation of anticancer active substances in polymeric systems.