Antiinflammatory effects of a combined herbal preparation (RAH13) of Phellodendron amurense and Coptis chinensis in animal models of inflammation

Kehuang capsule inhibits MAPK and AKT signaling pathways to mitigate CCl4-induced acute liver injury

Background and aims

Kehuang (KH) capsule is an herbal medical product approved for the treatment of liver diseases, including liver injury, in China. However, the mechanism is still unclear. This study aimed to elucidate the protective effects of KH capsule against carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced acute liver injury (ALI) in a murine model.

Methods

Mice were randomly divided into control, model (CCl4), CCl4+KH_Low and CCl4+KH_High group. Liver enzyme levels and histological changes were assessed to evaluate liver injury. Oxidative stress markers and inflammatory cell infiltration in liver tissues were measured. Additionally, network pharmacology was employed to explore the potential mechanisms of KH capsule.

Results

KH capsule significantly reduced serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels, as well as the necrotic area in liver tissue. KH capsule also decreased the infiltration of macrophages and neutrophils, thereby inhibiting the expression of interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β). Furthermore, KH capsule decreased liver malondialdehyde (MDA) levels and increased superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity. The number of terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase (TdT)-mediated dUTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL)-positive cells in liver tissue was also reduced. The expression of nuclear factor erythroid 2 related factor 2 (Nrf2) and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) proteins was significantly elevated, while the protein expression of cytochrome P450 2E1 (CYP2E1) was significantly reduced. Mass spectrometry identified genistein, galangin, wogonin, skullcapflavone II, and hispidulin as potential active ingredients of KH capsule. Network pharmacology analysis revealed enrichment in the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)-protein kinase B (AKT) signaling pathways. Western blot analysis confirmed that KH capsule suppressed AKT, extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), and p38 signaling.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that KH capsule could exert protective effects against CCl4-induced ALI, with the inhibition of MAPK and PI3K-AKT signaling pathways playing a crucial role in its mechanism of action.

In vitro, in vivo and in silico evaluation of analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-pyretic activity of salicylate rich fraction from Gaultheria trichophylla Royle (Ericaceae)

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Medicinal properties of Gaultheria have been used in traditional medicine to treat pain and inflammation.

AIM OF THE STUDY

Hence, the purpose of this study was to evaluate the analgesic, antipyretic, and anti-inflammatory properties of Gaultheria trichophylla Royle extract and salicylate-rich fraction in vivo, in vitro, and in silico.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In vivo analgesic, antipyretic, and anti-inflammatory of extract and a salicylate-rich fraction (at doses of 100, 200, 300, and 150 mg/kg) were assessed using healthy albino mice employing acetic acid-induced writhing, tail immersion test, carrageenan-induced inflammation, and croton oil-induced edema. For in vitro testing of extracts COX and LOX enzyme inhibition assays were used. Molecular docking studies were conducted for in silico testing of the inhibitory activity of the dominant compound Gaultherin against COX and LOX.

RESULTS

G-EXT 200 and 300 and G-SAL 150 mg/kg reduced pyrexia significantly (P < 0.05 and P < 0.01). G-EXT-200, 300, and G-SAL 150 reduce the writing to a significant level (p > 0.05, p < 0.01). G-EXT 200 and 300 and G-SAL 150 mg/kg doses the analgesic effect was significant (p > 0.05, p > 0.01) and was comparable to tramadol. G-EXT 100 200, 300 mg/kg showed 43.8%, 47.94% and 56% respectively. G-SAL 150 mg, rich in salicylates, showed maximum inhibition of 65.75% next to standard drug diclofenac with 76.7% inhibition. G-EXT 100 and 200 mg/kg dose showed significant (p < 0.05) reduction in ear edema. With 300 mg/kg dose the effect was more (61.89%, p < 0.01). The salicylate-rich fraction G-SAL and Celecoxib showed an almost similar effect (p < 0.01). Significance inhibition was shown in the COX-2 test (G-EXT 39.70 and G-SAL 77.20 IC50 μg/ml) and in the 5-LOX test (G-EXT 28.3 and G-SAL 39.70 IC50 μg/ml). The preliminary in silico results suggest that the investigated compound showed excellent inhibitory activity against COX and LOX enzymes as evident from the free binding energy. Molecular docking revealed that Gaultherin binds well in the COX and LOX enzyme catalytic region.

CONCLUSION

The extract and salicylate-rich fraction obtained from G. trichophylla showed significant analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antipyretic effects in vivo, in vitro, and in silico assays that support its use in traditional medicine.

Effect of Chinese herbal medicine therapy on risks of all-cause mortality, infections, parasites, and circulatory-related mortality in HIV/AIDS patients with neurological diseases

Introduction: Long-term living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and/or antiretroviral therapy (ART) is associated with various adverse effects, including neurocognitive impairment. Heterogeneous neurocognitive impairment remains an important issue, affecting between 15-65% of human immunodeficiency virus infection and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS) patients and resulting in work performance, safety, and health-related outcomes that have a heavy economic burden. Methods: We identified 1,209 HIV/AIDS patients with neurological diseases during 2010-2017. The Kaplan-Meier method, log-rank test, and Cox proportional hazards model were used to analyze 308 CHM users and 901 non-CHM users within this population. Major CHM clusters were determined using association rule mining and network analysis. Results and Discussion: Results showed that CHM users had a 70% lower risk of all-cause mortality (adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) = 0.30, 95% confidence interval (CI):0.16-0.58, p < 0.001) (p = 0.0007, log-rank test). Furthermore, CHM users had an 86% lower risk of infections, parasites, and circulatory-related mortality (aHR = 0.14, 95% confidence interval (CI):0.04-0.46, p = 0.001) (p = 0.0010, log-rank test). Association rule mining and network analysis showed that two CHM clusters were important for patients with neurological diseases. In the first CHM cluster, Huang Qin (HQ; root of Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi), Gan Cao (GC; root of Glycyrrhiza uralensis Fisch.), Huang Lian (HL; root of Coptis chinensis Franch.), Jie Geng (JG; root of Platycodon grandiflorus (Jacq.) A.DC.), and Huang Bai (HB; bark of Phellodendron amurense Rupr.) were identified as important CHMs. Among them, the strongest connection strength was identified between the HL and HQ. In the second CHM cluster, Suan-Zao-Ren-Tang (SZRT) and Ye Jiao Teng (YJT; stem of Polygonum multiflorum Thunb.) were identified as important CHMs with the strongest connection strength. CHMs may thus be effective in treating HIV/AIDS patients with neurological diseases, and future clinical trials are essential for the prevention of neurological dysfunction in the population.

Interactions between Natural Products-A Review

Plant-based natural products have been used as a source for therapeutics since the dawn of civilization. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 80% of the world's population relies on traditional medicine for their primary healthcare. Numerous natural extracts, widely known in Traditional Chinese Medicine, Indian Ayurveda medicine and other practices, have led to the modern discovery and development of new drugs. Plants continuously interact with their environment, producing new compounds and ever-changing combinations of existing ones. Interestingly, some of the compounds have shown lower therapeutic activity in comparison to the extract they were isolated from. These findings suggest that the higher therapeutic activity of the source extract was due to the synergistic effect of several compounds. In other words, the total therapeutic potential of the extract cannot be explained only by the sum of its parts alone. In traditional medicine, most herbal remedies are based on a mixture of plants, and it is the interaction between different constituents that amplifies their therapeutic potential. Considering the significant influence traditional medicine has on human healthcare, knowing and studying the synergistic effect of compounds is paramount in designing smart therapeutic agents.

Recent technological advances in the management of chronic wounds: A literature review

Background

Wound treatment comprises a substantial portion of the healthcare budgets in developed countries. Studies suggest that about 50% of patients admitted to hospitals have wounds, while 1%−2% of the general population in the developed world suffers from chronic wounds. Chronic wounds fail to repair themselves within the expected period of 30 days. Technologies have been developed to address challenges encountered during wound care with the aim of alleviating pain, promoting healing, or controlling wound infections.

Objective

The objective of this study was to explore the technological improvements that have been made in this field over time.

Methods

To gain insight into the future of wound management, a systematic review of literature on the subject was conducted in scientific databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Medline, and Clinical Trials).

Results and Discussion

Results indicate that wound dressings have evolved from the traditional cotton gauze to composite materials embedded with appropriate ingredients such as metal‐based nanoparticles. Studies on biodegradable dressing materials are also underway to explore their applicability in dressing large and irregular wounds. On the other hand, conventional drugs and traditional formulations for the management of pain, inflammation, infections, and accelerating healing have been developed. However, more research needs to be carried out to address the issue of microbial resistance to drugs. Drugs for managing other ailments also need to be designed in such a way that they can augment wound healing. In addition, it has been demonstrated that a coordinated integration of conventional and traditional medicine can produce laudable results in chronic wound management.

Conclusion

Accordingly, collaborative efforts and ingenuity of all players in the field can accelerate technological advances in the wound care market to the benefit of the patients.

Wounds affect about 50% of patients admitted to hospitals.

Technologies have been developed including biodegradable dressing materials to address underlying challenges.

Technological advancement, rising incidences of chronic wounds, growing government support, and a rising elderly population will drive wound market growth.

A careful combination of recent research outputs can greatly change wound care technologies.

This review highlights the recent research advances and opportunities in the wound care field.

The future lies in biodegradable dressing materials, probably embedded with selected nanoparticles and which shall be combined in predetermined ratios.

Molecular Modelling, Synthesis and Evaluation of Flavone and Flavanone Scaffolds as Anti-inflammatory Agents

OBJECTIVE

The objective of the study was to develop new Cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitors as anti-inflammatory agents from the synthetic route.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The 2-phenyl-4H-chromen-4-one and 2-phenyl-2,3-dihydro-4H-chromenone hybrids were synthesised and characterised by using UV, IR, ¹H-NMR, and mass spectrometry. An attempt was made for consolidated lead flavones and flavanones scaffolds by determining ADME/ T properties. Molecular docking simulations were performed by using Autodock.4 to understand the binding interaction over the targeted enzyme Cyclooxygenase-2. The titled compounds were evaluated for various in-vitro models for antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities and based upon the IC₅₀ values, the selected compounds were screened for in vivo anti-inflammatory activity by both acute and chronic models.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Twenty titled compounds were synthesised and elucidated their structure for confirmation of their functional groups by various spectroscopic techniques. Among the synthesized compounds, flavone derivatives such as HFc (7-hydroxy-3-(4-methoxy phenyl)-4H-chromen-4- one), HF_d (2-(2,4-di methoxy-phenyl)-7-hydroxy-4H-chromen-4-one) and HFe (7-hydroxy-2- (thiophen-2-yl)-4H-chromen-4-one) produced higher potency. Flavanone derivatives HFAc (7- hydroxy-2-(4-hydroxy-3-methoxy phenyl)-2,3-dihydro-4H-chromen-4-one), HFAb (7-hydroxy-2-(4- methoxy phenyl)-2,3-dihydro-4H-chromen-4-one) and HFA_d (7-hydroxy-2-(thiophen-2-yl)-2,3- dihydro-4H-chromen-4-one) showed significant anti-inflammatory activity compared to the standard COX-2 inhibitors.

CONCLUSION

The flavone and flavanone scaffolds possess their excellent inhibitory action over the Cyclooxygenase-2 and act as a potential anti-inflammatory agent. The results of computational studies were also significantly correlated and concluded that those naturally mimicking flavonoid analogues were tremendous candidates to fight against the inflammatory diseases in drug discovery.

The RUTI trial: A feasibility study exploring Chinese herbal medicine for the treatment of recurrent urinary tract infections

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) is a widely used traditional intervention that may have a role to play in addressing the global problem of antimicrobial resistance in conditions such as recurrent urinary tract infections (RUTIs).

AIM OF THE STUDY

To evaluate the feasibility of administering standardised and individualised formulations of CHM for RUTIs as a Clinical Trial of an Investigational Medicinal Product (CTIMP) within primary care of the UKs National Health Service (NHS).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Regulatory approval was applied for a placebo controlled, double blinded randomised controlled feasibility trial comparing a) standardised CHM vs placebo administered via General practitioners, and b) individualised CHM vs placebo administered by an experienced CHM practitioner. Primary feasibility outcomes included: gaining regulatory approval, recruitment, randomisation, retention, safety and the relevance of outcomes measures.

RESULTS

Regulatory approval for testing CHM as a CTIMP was successfully obtained. Recruitment to the trial was slow and non-NHS self help networks were required to find participants for the individualised arm (n = 31). Retention and data collection in the standardised arm (n-30) were problematic, but these were acceptable in the individualised arm. The use of a daily symptom diary was not a suitable outcome measure for women with continuous infection. Other measures showed promising preliminary data for the individualised arm on improvement in symptoms, and reduction in antibiotic use during and after the trial.

CONCLUSION

CHM can fulfil the demanding requirements of a CTIMP study but it may not be feasible at this point in time to recruit and treat via NHS primary care. However acceptable rates of recruitment and retention via self-help groups and promising preliminary results in the individualised arm suggest it would be worth testing this approach in a full trial.

Composition and diversity of rhizosphere fungal community in Coptis chinensis Franch. continuous cropping fields

In this study, effects of continuous cropping on soil properties, enzyme activities, and relative abundance, community composition and diversity of fungal taxa were investigated. Rhizosphere soil from field continuously cropped for one-year, three-year and five-year by Coptis chinensis Franch. was collected and analyzed. Illumina high-throughput sequencing analysis showed that continuous cropping of C. chinensis resulted in a significant and continuous decline in the richness and diversity of soil fungal population. Ascomycota, Zygomycota, Basidiomycota, and Glomeromycota were the dominant phyla of fungi detected in rhizosphere soil. Fungal genera such as Phoma, Volutella, Pachycudonia, Heterodermia, Gibberella, Cladosporium, Trichocladium, and Sporothrix, were more dominant in continuously cropped samples for three-year and five-year compared to that for one-year. By contrast, genera, such as Zygosaccharomyces, Pseudotaeniolina, Hydnum, Umbelopsis, Humicola, Crustoderma, Psilocybe, Coralloidiomyces, Mortierella, Polyporus, Pyrenula, and Monographella showed higher relative abundance in one-year samples than that in three-year and five-year samples. Cluster analysis of the fungal communities from three samples of rhizosphere soil from C. chinensis field revealed that the fungal community composition, diversity, and structure were significantly affected by the continuous cropping. Continuous cropping of C. chinensis also led to significant declines in soil pH, urease, and catalase activities. Redundancy analysis showed that the soil pH had the most significant effect on soil fungal population under continuous cropping of C. chinensis.

Anti-inflammatory activity of bartogenic acid containing fraction of fruits of Barringtonia racemosa Roxb. in acute and chronic animal models of inflammation

The fruits of Barringtonia racemosa are traditionally used in Indian medicine for the treatment of pain and inflammatory conditions. In this study, a fraction of ethyl acetate extract of fruits of B. racemosa (BREAF) was investigated for anti-inflammatory activity in experimental models of acute and chronic inflammation. Activity against acute inflammation was evaluated in inflammogens induced rat paw edema models. Whereas, effect in chronic inflammation was evaluated in cotton pellet granuloma and oxazolone induced delayed type hypersensitivity (DTH) model in mice. The BREAF exhibited dose dependent anti-inflammatory activity in both acute and chronic models at oral doses of 5, 10 and 20 mg/kg. BREAF inhibited both phases of carrageenan induced rat paw inflammation. The reduction in paw inflammation by BREAF was also evident in histamine and serotonin induced inflammation in rats. Effect of BREAF on DTH indicates inhibition of immune mediated inflammation. The reduction in cotton pellet granuloma by BREAF treatment shows inhibition of proliferative changes associated with chronic inflammation. Analysis of BREAF after chromatographic separations showed presence of bartogenic acid as a major constituent. Hence, it is proposed that anti-inflammatory effects of BREAF can be partially attributed to its bartogenic acid content. The minute doses at which this fraction shows anti-inflammatory effects emphasizes the need for further investigations on its efficacy in the immuno-inflammatory conditions.

Anti-inflammatory activity of iridoid and catechol derivatives from Eucommia ulmoides Oliver

Neuroinflammation and pro-inflammatory mediators play key roles in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases including stroke, which account for a significant burden of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Recently, the unsatisfactory pharmacotherapy and side effects of the drugs led to the development of alternative medicine for treating these diseases. Du Zhong (DZ), Eucommia ulmoides Oliver leaves, is a commonly used herb in the therapy of stroke in China. We hypothesize that the components from DZ inhibit neuroinflammation. In this study, DZ was extracted and the bioactive fractions with inhibitory effect on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated nitric oxide (NO) production in BV-2 microglial cells were further separated using chromatography. Two purified bioactive compounds, genipin (compound C) and 4-(1,2-dimethoxyethyl)benzene-1,2-diol (compound F), were isolated and identified after spectroscopic analysis. The results showed that they inhibited LPS-stimulated NO and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) production. Genipin exerted its anti-inflammatory effects through PI3K/Akt signaling pathway, whereas compound F inhibited phosphorylation of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK). In conclusion, genipin and compound F have potential for developing into new drugs for treating neurodegenerative diseases.

The inhibition of folylpolyglutamate synthetase (folC) in the prevention of drug resistance in Mycobacterium tuberculosis by traditional Chinese medicine

Tuberculosis (TB) is an infectious disease caused by many strains of mycobacteria, but commonly Mycobacterium tuberculosis. As a possible method of reducing the drug resistance of M. tuberculosis, this research investigates the inhibition of Folylpolyglutamate synthetase, a protein transcript from the resistance association gene folC. After molecular docking to screen the traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) database, the candidate TCM compounds, with Folylpolyglutamate synthetase, were selected by molecular dynamics. The 10,000 ps simulation in association with RMSD analysis and total energy and structural variation defined the protein-ligand interaction. The selected TCM compounds Saussureamine C, methyl 3-O-feruloylquinate, and Labiatic acid have been found to inhibit the activity of bacteria and viruses and to regulate immunity. We also suggest the possible pathway in protein for each ligand. Compared with the control, similar interactions and structural variations indicate that these compounds might have an effect on Folylpolyglutamate synthetase. Finally, we suggest Saussureamine C is the best candidate compound as the complex has a high score, maintains its structural composition, and has a larger variation value than the control, thus inhibiting the drug resistance ability of Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

Possible inhibitor from traditional Chinese medicine for the β form of calcium-dependent protein kinase type II in the treatment of major depressive disorder

Recently, an important topic of major depressive disorder (MDD) had been published in 2013. MDD is one of the most prevalent and disabling mental disorders. Consequently, much research is being undertaken into the causes and treatment. It has been found that inhibition of the β form of calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase type II (β-CaMKII) can ameliorate the disorder. Upon screening the traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) database by molecular docking, sengesterone, labiatic acid, and methyl 3-O-feruloylquinate were selected for molecular dynamics. After 20 ns simulation, the RMSD, total energy, and structure variation could define the protein-ligand interaction. Furthermore, sengesterone, the principle candidate compound, has been found to have an effect on the regulation of emotions and memory development. In structure variation, we find the sample functional group of important amino acids make the protein stable and have limited variation. Due to similarity of structure variations, we suggest that these compounds may have an effect on β-CaMKII and that sengesterone may have a similar efficacy as the control. However labiatic acid may be a stronger inhibitor of β-CaMKII based on the larger RMSD and variation.

In Vitro Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant Potential of Si-Miao-San, its Modifications and Pure Compounds

The ancient Chinese prescription Si-Miao-San (SMS), which is widely used for the treatment of various diseases, e.g. rheumatic disorders, has been modified (m1SMS, m2SMS). The purpose of this study was to investigate the anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-tyrosinase effects of Si-Miao-San, of its two modifications, the component herbs, and its main pure ingredients. In vitro tyrosinase, 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), and lipid peroxidation (LPO) assays were carried out in order to determine the inhibitory potential of the samples. The traditionally applied decoctions as well as their fractions ( n-hexane, DCM, n-BuOH) were tested for their activities in concentrations of 100 μg/mL and 400 μg/mL, and the pure compounds in a range 6.25 μg/mL to 100 μg/mL. In conclusion, the decoction of m2SMS exhibited strong antioxidant activity in the DPPH assay, while the decoction of the classical SMS formulation showed low activity. The present results have shown the modifications to be more efficient scavengers of free radicals, such as superoxide and peroxide radicals. In addition, the decoctions of the two modifications have been shown to be more potent tyrosinase inhibitors. These formulas may thus be used as anti-inflammatory and anti-aging prescriptions, as they may help to prevent cell damage. This study clearly establishes the two modifications of Si-Miao-San as valuable sources of natural antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents, and also as candidates in the search for modern pharmaceuticals.

Anti-angiogenic activity of Erxian Decoction, a traditional Chinese herbal formula, in zebrafish

Erxian Decoction (EXD), a traditional Chinese herbal formula, has been used to treat menopausal symptoms and other aging diseases for several decades. Recently, our laboratory found that EXD could inhibit the proliferation of breast cancer cells. This activity may be mediated by anti-angiogenic action. To investigate the anti-angiogenic activity of EXD, its inhibitory effect on blood vessel formation was evaluated using both wild type and transgenic zebrafish embryos with fluorescent vasculature in vivo. Both semi-quantitative and real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) were carried out to evaluate the effect of EXD on the expression of several genes closely associated with angiogenesis in zebrafish. EXD was found to inhibit vessel formation in zebrafish embryos in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Furthermore, it reduced the mRNA expression of vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A) and the protein level of hypoxia inducible factor 1α (HIF-1α) in the embryos, suggesting the involvement of HIF-1 mediated VEGF-A signaling pathway in the anti-angiogenic action of EXD. The anti-angiogenic activity of EXD provides new insights to its clinical application and may in the future lead to the development of potential drugs for treating various cancers, especially in menopausal period.

Phellodendron amurense and Its Major Alkaloid Compound, Berberine Ameliorates Scopolamine-Induced Neuronal Impairment and Memory Dysfunction in Rats

We examine whether Phellodendron amurense (PA) and its major alkaloid compound, berberine (BER), improved memory defects caused by administering scopolamine in rats. Effects of PA and BER on the acetylcholinergic system and pro-inflammatory cytokines in the hippocampus were also investigated. Male rats were administered daily doses for 14 days of PA (100 and 200 mg/kg, i.p.) and BER (20 mg/kg, i.p.) 30 min before scopolamine injection (2 mg/kg, i.p.). Daily administration of PA and BER improved memory impairment as measured by the passive avoidance test and reduced the escape latency for finding the platform in the Morris water maze test. Administration of PA and BER significantly alleviated memory-associated decreases in cholinergic immunoreactivity and restored brain-derived neurotrophic factor and cAMP-response element-binding protein mRNA expression in the hippocampus. PA and BER also decreased significantly the expression of proinflammatory cytokines such as interleukin-1β, tumor necrosis factor-α and cyclooxygenase-2 mRNA in the hippocampus. These results demonstrated that PA and BER had significant neuroprotective effects against neuronal impairment and memory dysfunction caused by scopolamine in rats. These results suggest that PA and BER may be useful as therapeutic agents for improving cognitive functioning by stimulating cholinergic enzyme activity and alleviating inflammatory responses.

Anti-Inflammatory Activities of a Chinese Herbal Formula IBS-20 In Vitro and In Vivo

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a functional bowel disorder and the etiology is not well understood. Currently there is no cure for IBS and no existing medication induces symptom relief in all patients. IBS-20 is a 20-herb Chinese medicinal formula that offers beneficial effects in patients with IBS; however, the underlying mechanisms are largely unknown. This study showed that IBS-20 potently inhibited LPS- or IFNΓ-stimulated expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines, as well as classically activated macrophage marker nitric oxide synthase 2. Similarly, IBS-20 or the component herb Coptis chinensis decreased LPS-stimulated pro-inflammatory cytokine secretion from JAWS II dendritic cells. IBS-20 or the component herbs also blocked or attenuated the IFNΓ-induced drop in transepithelial electric resistance, an index of permeability, in fully differentiated Caco-2 monolayer. Finally, the up-regulation of key inflammatory cytokines in inflamed colon from TNBS-treated mice was suppressed significantly by orally administrated IBS-20, including IFNΓ and IL-12p40. These data indicate that the anti-inflammatory activities of IBS-20 may contribute to the beneficial effects of the herbal extract in patients with IBS, providing a potential mechanism of action for IBS-20. In addition, IBS-20 may be a potential therapeutic agent against other Th1-dominant gut pathologies such as inflammatory bowel disease.

Comparison on the anti-inflammatory effect of Cortex Phellodendri Chinensis and Cortex Phellodendri Amurensis in 12-O-tetradecanoyl-phorbol-13-acetate-induced ear edema in mice

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Cortex Phellodendri is derived from the dried bark of Phellodendron chinense Schneid. or Phellodendron amurense Rupr. Traditionally, Cortex Phellodendron Chinensis (CPC) and Cortex Phellodendron Amurensis (CPA) are used interchangeably under the name "Huang Bai" for the treatment of gastroenteritis, abdominal pain or diarrhea. The present study aims to compare the anti-inflammatory effect of ethanol extracts of Cortex Phellodendri Chinensis (ECPC) and Cortex Phellodendri Amurensis (ECPA) in a mouse model of inflammation induced by 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-acetate (TPA).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The anti-inflammatory effect was evaluated by measuring the ear thickness, activity of myeloperoxidase (MPO) and the production reactive oxygen species (ROS). The anti-inflammatory mechanism was explored by determining the protein and mRNA levels of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-6.

RESULTS

The results showed that both ECPC and ECPA significantly decreased the ear thickness, MPO activity and the ROS level in mouse model of inflammation induced by TPA. In addition, ECPC and ECPA also remarkably inhibited the protein and mRNA levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6 and COX-2. Interestingly, ECPC has better anti-inflammatory effect than that of ECPA.

CONCLUSIONS

These results indicate that both ECPC and ECPA have potential anti-inflammatory effect on TPA-induced inflammatory in mice, and ECPC is more effective than ECPA. The anti-inflammatory effect of the herbal drugs may be mediated, at least in part, by down-regulating the mRNA expression of a panel of inflammatory mediators including TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6 and COX-2.

Medicinal plants used in the management of chronic joint pains in Machakos and Makueni counties, Kenya

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Traditional medicines play an important role in the management of chronically painful and debilitating joint conditions, particularly in the rural Africa. However, their potential use as sources of medicines has not been fully exploited. The present study was carried to find the medicinal plants traditionally used to manage chronic joint pains in Machakos and Makueni counties in Kenya.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

To obtain this ethnobotanical information, 30 consenting traditional herbal medical practitioners were interviewed exclusively on medicinal plant use in the management of chronic joint pains, in a pre-planned workshop.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

In this survey, a total of 37 plants belonging to 32 genera and 23 families were cited as being important for treatment of chronic joint pains. The most commonly cited plant species were Pavetta crassipes K. Schum, Strychnos henningsii Gilg., Carissa spinarum L., Fagaropsis hildebrandtii (Engl.) Milve-Redh. and Zanthoxylum chalybeum Engl. Acacia mellifera (Vahl) Benth., Amaranthus albus L., Balanites glabra Mildbr. & Schltr., Grewia fallax K. Schum., Lactuca capensis, Launaea cornuta (Oliv. & Hiern) O. Jeffrey, Lippia kituiensis Vatke, Pappea capensis Eckl. & Zeyh. and Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br. are documented for the first time as being important in the management of chronic joint pains.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings of this study show that a variety of medicinal plants are used in the management of chronic joint pains and the main mode of administration is oral.

Effect of Phellodendron amurense in protecting human osteoarthritic cartilage and chondrocytes

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Traditional medicine has been widely using Phellodendron amurense Rupr. (Rutaceae) to treat various inflammatory diseases including arthritis.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study investigated the effects of Phellodendron amurense in protecting cartilage, including regulating the levels of aggrecanases, matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs)/tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase (TIMP), proinflammatory cytokines and signaling of the mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway in human osteoarticular cartilage and chondrocytes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Explants from human osteoarthritis cartilage were cultured alone or in IL-1α for 7 days with or without Phellodendron amurense ethanol extract or celecoxib (40, 100, 200μg/ml). The effect of Phellodendron amurense on matrix degradation induced by IL-1α in human articular cartilage was assessed by staining, and the quantities of sulfated glycosaminoglycan (GAG) and type II collagen were calculated from the culture media. The levels of aggrecanases, MMPs, TIMP, and PGE(2) in the culture media were investigated using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). In addition, reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) evaluated the mRNA expression of aggrecanases, MMPs and TIMP. Furthermore, Western blot analysis was performed to identify the roles that Phellodendron amurense played in the ERK, JNK and p38 signaling pathways.

RESULTS

Phellodendron amurense showed no evident cytotoxicity on human articular cartilage. Phellodendron amurense significantly inhibited the IL-1α-induced degradation of GAG and type II collagen from human osteoarticular cartilage in a concentration-dependent manner. Celecoxib did not significantly inhibit IL-1α-induced release of GAG and only slightly reduced type II collagen. Phellodendron amurense also dose-dependently decreased the levels of aggrecanase-1 and -2, MMP-1, -3, and -13, whereas it increased TIMP-1 expression in human osteoarticular cartilage. Celecoxib only decreased MMP-1 and MMP-13 levels in human osteoarticular cartilage. In addition, Phellodendron amurense reduced the phosphorylation of extracellular signal regulated kinase (ERK)1/2, Jun NH2-terminal kinase (JNK) and activated phospho-p38 MAPK in a dose-dependent manner in human osteoarthritic chondrocytes.

CONCLUSIONS

Phellodendron amurense inhibited osteoarticular cartilage and chondrocyte destruction by inhibiting proteoglycan release and type II collagen degradation, down-regulating aggrecanases, MMP activities and phospho-ERK1/2, JNK and p38 MAP kinase signaling, and up-regulating TIMP-1 activity. Therefore, our results suggest that Phellodendron amurense is a potential therapeutic agent to protect cartilage against OA progression.

Identification of anti-inflammatory target genes of Rhizoma coptidis extract in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated RAW264.7 murine macrophage-like cells

AIM OF THE STUDY

Rhizoma coptidis is used widely in traditional Oriental medicine to treat inflammatory diseases. The aim of this study was to identify the anti-inflammatory target genes of Rhizoma coptidis extract (CEX) in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW264.7 murine macrophage-like cells.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

RAW264.7 cells were treated with CEX in the absence or presence of LPS for 6h, and changes in gene expression profiles were analyzed using oligonucleotide DNA microarrays. The results of microarray analysis were validated by semiquantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. To confirm the anti-inflammatory activity of CEX, the concentrations of cytokines released into the media were measured by sandwich ELISA, NO production was assessed using the Griess reagent, and iNOS expression levels were determined using immunoblot analysis.

RESULTS

Microarray analysis revealed that activation of RAW264.7 cells with LPS elicited marked changes in mRNA expression of numerous genes known to be associated with inflammatory responses. Treatment of the cells with CEX suppressed the expression of various cytokines/chemokines, cell surface molecules, adhesion molecules, and growth factors. An ELISA also showed a decrease in the secretion of IL-1alpha, GM-CSF, and IL-6 but not of TNF-alpha. iNOS protein expression and NO production were also reduced by CEX treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

The data obtained in this study demonstrate that CEX exerts its anti-inflammatory effect by inhibiting the expression of various proinflammatory cytokines and cell surface molecules involved in inflammatory responses at the transcriptional level. These data support the traditional use of CEX as an anti-inflammatory agent and should provide useful information for the understanding of the pharmacological effects of CEX.

Rhizoma Coptidis inhibits LPS-induced MCP-1/CCL2 production in murine macrophages via an AP-1 and NFkappaB-dependent pathway

Introduction. The Chinese extract Rhizoma coptidis is well known for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidative, antiviral, and antimicrobial activity. The exact mechanisms of action are not fully understood. Methods. We examined the effect of the extract and its main compound, berberine, on LPS-induced inflammatory activity in a murine macrophage cell line. RAW 264.7 cells were stimulated with LPS and incubated with either Rhizoma coptidis extract or berberine. Activation of AP-1 and NFκB was analyzed in nuclear extracts, secretion of MCP-1/CCL2 was measured in supernatants. Results. Incubation with Rhizoma coptidis and berberine strongly inhibited LPS-induced monocyte chemoattractant protein (MCP)-1 production in RAW cells. Activation of the transcription factors AP-1 and NFκB was inhibited by Rhizoma coptidis in a dose- and time-dependent fashion. Conclusions. Rhizoma coptidis extract inhibits LPS-induced MCP-1/CCL2 production in vitro via an AP-1 and NFκB-dependent pathway. Anti-inflammatory action of the extract is mediated mainly by its alkaloid compound berberine.

Extracts of bark from the traditional Chinese herb Phellodendron amurense inhibit contractility of the isolated rat prostate gland

AIM OF THE STUDY

To assess the effectiveness of the traditional Chinese herb Phellodendron amurense in treating urological disorders.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Prostate smooth muscle relaxant activity of an extract from the bark of Phellodendron amurense was tested on contractions of isolated rat prostate gland induced by electrical nerve stimulation and direct muscle stimulation.

RESULTS

Electrical field stimulation (0.5 ms, 60V, 1-20 Hz) induced nerve mediated contractions of isolated rat prostate were inhibited by Phellodendron amurense extract dissolved in either dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO), acetic acid or water (P<or=0.022, n=6 for each) but not boiling water (P=0.619, n=6). Phellodendron amurense extract also inhibited contractions of isolated rat prostates elicited by exogenous administration of noradrenaline (10nM to 100 microM), acetylcholine (10nM to 100 microM) or adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP, 100 nM to 100 microM) (P<or=0.004, n=6-8 for each).

CONCLUSION

Phellodendron amurense is able to inhibit prostatic contractility suggesting that it may be useful in the treatment of urological disorders caused by prostatic urethral obstruction such as in the case of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).