Herbal Remedies Supply a Novel Prospect for the Treatment of Atherosclerosis: A Review of Current Mechanism Studies

Andrographolide Attenuates Oxidized LDL-Induced Activation of the NLRP3 Inflammasome in Bone Marrow-Derived Macrophages and Mitigates HFCCD-Induced Atherosclerosis in Mice

Andrographolide (AND) is a bioactive component of the herb Andrographis paniculata and a well-known anti-inflammatory agent. Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease of the vasculature, and oxidized LDL (oxLDL) is thought to contribute heavily to atherosclerosis-associated inflammation. The aim of this study was to investigate whether AND mitigates oxLDL-mediated foam cell formation and diet-induced atherosclerosis (in mice fed a high-fat, high-cholesterol, high-cholic acid [HFCCD] diet) and the underlying mechanisms involved. AND attenuated LPS/oxLDL-mediated foam cell formation, IL-1[Formula: see text] mRNA and protein (p37) expression, NLR family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) mRNA and protein expression, caspase-1 (p20) protein expression, and IL-1[Formula: see text] release in BMDMs. Treatment with oxLDL significantly induced protein and mRNA expression of CD36, lectin-like oxLDL receptor-1 (LOX-1), and scavenger receptor type A (SR-A), whereas pretreatment with AND significantly inhibited protein and mRNA expression of SR-A only. Treatment with oxLDL significantly induced ROS generation and Dil-oxLDL uptake; however, pretreatment with AND alleviated oxLDL-induced ROS generation and Dil-oxLDL uptake. HFCCD feeding significantly increased aortic lipid accumulation, ICAM-1 expression, and IL-1[Formula: see text] mRNA expression, as well as blood levels of glutamic pyruvic transaminase (GPT), total cholesterol, and LDL-C. AND co-administration mitigated aortic lipid accumulation, the protein expression of ICAM-1, mRNA expression of IL-1[Formula: see text] and ICAM-1, and blood levels of GPT. These results suggest that the working mechanisms by which AND mitigates atherosclerosis involve the inhibition of foam cell formation and NLRP3 inflammasome-dependent vascular inflammation as evidenced by decreased SR-A expression and IL-1[Formula: see text] release, respectively.

Identification of bioactive compounds and potential mechanisms of scutellariae radix-coptidis rhizoma in the treatment of atherosclerosis by integrating network pharmacology and experimental validation

OBJECTIVE

This study aims at investigating the potential targets and functional mechanisms of Scutellariae Radix-Coptidis Rhizoma (QLYD) against atherosclerosis (AS) through network pharmacology, molecular docking, bioinformatic analysis and experimental validation.

METHODS

The compositions of QLYD were collected from the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology Database and Analysis Platform (TCMSP) and literature, where the main active components of QLYD and corresponding targets were identified. The potential therapeutic targets of AS were excavated using the OMIM database, DrugBank database, DisGeNET database, CTD database and GEO datasets. The protein-protein interaction (PPI) network of common targets was constructed and visualized by Cytoscape 3.7.2 software. Gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes (KEGG) analysis were performed to analyze the function of core targets in the PPI network. Molecular docking was carried out using AutoDockTools, AutoDock Vina, and PyMOL software to verify the correlation between the main components of QLYD and the core targets. Mouse AS model was established and the results of network pharmacology were verified by in vivo experiments.

RESULTS

Totally 49 active components and 225 corresponding targets of QLYD were obtained, where 68 common targets were identified by intersecting with AS-related targets. Five hub genes including IL6, VEGFA, AKT1, TNF, and IL1B were screened from the PPI network. GO functional analysis reported that these targets had associations mainly with cellular response to oxidative stress, regulation of inflammatory response, epithelial cell apoptotic process, and blood coagulation. KEGG pathway analysis demonstrated that these targets were correlated to AGE-RAGE signaling pathway in diabetic complications, TNF signaling pathway, IL-17 signaling pathway, MAPK signaling pathway, and NF-kappa B signaling pathway. Results of molecular docking indicated good binding affinity of QLYD to FOS, AKT1, and TNF. Animal experiments showed that QLYD could inhibit inflammation, improve blood lipid levels and reduce plaque area in AS mice to prevent and treat AS.

CONCLUSION

QLYD may exert anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative stress effects through multi-component, multi-target and multi-pathway to treat AS.

Beneficial effects of Panax notoginseng (Burkill) F. H. Chen flower saponins in rats with metabolic hypertension by inhibiting the activation of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system through complement 3

BACKGROUND

Metabolic hypertension (MH) has become the most common type of hypertension in recent years due to unhealthy eating habits and lifestyles of people, such as over-eating alcohol, high fat, and sugar diets (ACHFSDs). Therefore, effective means to combat MH are needed. Previous studies have shown that Panax notoginseng (Burkill) F. H. Chen flower saponins (PNFS) can lower blood pressure in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). However, whether it acts on MH and its mechanism of action remain unclear.  METHODS: The pharmacodynamic effects of PNFS were evaluated in rats with ACHFSDs-induced MH. The blood pressure, blood biochemical, grip strength, face temperature, vertigo time, and liver index were estimated. The histological changes in the liver and aorta were observed using hematoxylin and eosin staining. The levels of ET-1, TXB₂, NO, PGI₂, Renin, ACE, Ang II, and ALD in plasma were detected using ELISA. The levels of C3, KLF5, LXRα, and Renin in kidney tissues were measured using qRT-PCR.The expression levels of C3, KLF5, LXRα, and Renin in kidney tissues were examined using Western blotting.

RESULTS

In the present study, PNFS was found to reduce blood pressure, face temperature, and vertigo time, increase grip strength and improve dyslipidemia in rats with MH. In addition, PNFS decreased the plasma levels of ET-1 and TXB₂, elevated the levels of NO and PGI₂, and improved pathological aortic injury. Meanwhile, PNFS decreased the plasma levels of Renin, ACE, Ang II, and ALD. QRT-PCR and Western bolt showed that PNFS downregulated C3, KLF5, LXRα, and Renin protein and mRNA expression in the kidneys of rats with MH.

CONCLUSION

The finding of the present study suggested that PNFS could downregulate C3 and KLF-5 expression in rats with MH, thereby inhibiting the overactivation of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, while improving vascular endothelial function and ultimately reducing blood pressure in rats with MH.

CHOP Increases TRIB3-Dependent miR-208 Expression to Potentiate Vascular Smooth Muscle Cell Proliferation and Migration by Downregulating TIMP3 in Atherosclerosis

BACKGROUND

C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP) has been identified as a suitable therapeutic target to combat atherosclerosis but the mechanism has not been fully studied. Here, we sought to define the role and underlying mechanism of CHOP in atherosclerosis.

METHODS

Mouse models of atherosclerosis in ApoE-/- mice were established by high-fat feeding, where miR-208 expression was determined. Then atherosclerotic plaque tissues were isolated from the model mice. Loss- and gain-function assays were performed on trypsinized vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) to test the in vitro effect of CHOP in controlling the tribbles homologue 3 (TRIB3)/microRNA-208 (miR-208)/tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases-3 (TIMP3) axis in atherosclerosis by determining cell proliferation and migration as well as blood lipid levels. Moreover, expression of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and type I collagen expression was determined using immunofluorescence staining to assess plaque stability in mice.

RESULTS

miR-208 expression was elevated in atherosclerosis samples and miR-208 overexpression promoted proliferation and migration of VSMCs but diminished plaque stability in mice. TIMP3 was targeted by miR-208, which could be abrogated by upregulation of TIMP3. In addition, CHOP increased TRIB3 expression to upregulate miR-208 and to downregulate TIMP3, which potentiated VSMC proliferation and migration in vitro and in vivo.

CONCLUSION

Taken together, inhibition of CHOP may inhibit the proliferation and migration of VSMCs as well as reduce the levels of TC, TG, and LDL-C but increase the level of HDL-C through the TRIB3/miR-208/TIMP3 axis, thereby inhibiting the progression of atherosclerosis.

A systematic review and meta-analysis of the impact of cornelian cherry consumption on blood lipid profiles

Polyphenolic and flavonoid compounds are claimed to improve blood lipid profiles and to provide protective effects against cardiovascular disease. For this reason, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies that comprehensively investigated the effects of cornelian cherry supplementation on lipid profiles in rat models. Up to December 2020, 855 articles were screened, and finally, seven articles were selected as eligible for the meta-analysis. This meta-analysis revealed that cornelian cherry supplementation significantly decreased low-density lipoprotein (LDL) (WMD = -6.38 mg/dl; 95% CI, -9.93 to-2.84; p < .001), triglyceride (TG) (WMD = -52.36 mg/dl; 95% CI, -80.50 to -24.22; p < .005), and cholesterol level (WMD = -37.16 mg/dl; 95% CI, -51.19 to -23.13; p < .005) in treated rats compared with control groups. A nonsignificant increase in high-density lipoprotein (HDL) level was observed (WMD = 4.21 mg/dl; 95% CI, -3.25 to 11.66; p = .268). These results suggest that cherry supplementation may have health effects by modifying lipid profiles. However, there is a need for more well-controlled human clinical trials to make more definitive conclusions about the potential health benefits of cherry supplementation.

Regulation of Apolipoprotein B by Natural Products and Nutraceuticals: A Comprehensive Review

Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) is the most important and the number one cause of mortality in both developing and industrialized nations. The co-morbidities associated with CVD are observed from infancy to old age. Apolipoprotein B100 (Apo B) is the primary apolipoprotein and structural protein of all major atherogenic particles derived from the liver including Very-Low- Density Lipoproteins (VLDL), Intermediate-density Lipoprotein (IDL), and Low-density Lipoprotein (LDL) particles. It has been suggested that measurement of the Apo B concentration is a superior and more reliable index for the prediction of CVD risk than is the measurement of LDL-C. Nutraceuticals and medicinal plants have attracted significant attention as it pertains to the treatment of non-communicable diseases, particularly CVD, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD). The effect of nutraceuticals and herbal products on CVD, as well as some of its risk factors such as dyslipidemia, have been investigated previously. However, to the best of our knowledge, the effect of these natural products, including herbal supplements and functional foods (e.g. fruits and vegetables as either dry materials, or their extracts) on Apo B has not yet been investigated. Therefore, the primary objective of this paper was to review the effect of bioactive natural compounds on plasma Apo B concentrations. It is concluded that, in general, medicinal plants and nutraceuticals can be used as complementary medicine to reduce plasma Apo B levels in a safe, accessible, and inexpensive manner in an attempt to prevent and treat CVD.

Leaves and Fruits Preparations of Pistacia lentiscus L.: A Review on the Ethnopharmacological Uses and Implications in Inflammation and Infection

There is an increasing interest in revisiting plants for drug discovery, proving scientifically their role as remedies. The aim of this review was to give an overview of the ethnopharmacological uses of Pistacia lentiscus L. (PlL) leaves and fruits, expanding the search for the scientific discovery of their chemistry, anti-inflammatory, antioxidative and antimicrobial activities. PlL is a wild-growing shrub rich in terpenoids and polyphenols, the oil and extracts of which have been widely used against inflammation and infections, and as wound healing agents. The more recurrent components in PlL essential oil (EO) are represented by α-pinene, terpinene, caryophyllene, limonene and myrcene, with high variability in concentration depending on the Mediterranean country. The anti-inflammatory activity of the oil mainly occurs due to the inhibition of pro-inflammatory cytokines and the arachidonic acid cascade. Interestingly, the capacity against COX-2 and LOX indicates PlL EO as a dual inhibitory compound. The high content of polyphenols enriching the extracts provide explanations for the known biological properties of the plant. The protective effect against reactive oxygen species is of wide interest. In particular, their anthocyanins content greatly clarifies their antioxidative capacity. Further, the antimicrobial activity of PlL oil and extracts includes the inhibition of Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, periodontal bacteria and Candida spp. In conclusion, the relevant scientific properties indicate PlL as a nutraceutical and also as a therapeutic agent against a wide range of diseases based on inflammation and infections.

Effects of phytochemicals on macrophage cholesterol efflux capacity: Impact on atherosclerosis

High-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL) is the major promoter of reverse cholesterol transport and efflux of excess cellular cholesterol. The functions of HDL, such as cholesterol efflux, are associated with cardiovascular disease rather than HDL levels. We have reviewed the evidence base on the major classes of phytochemicals, including polyphenols, alkaloids, carotenoids, phytosterols, and fatty acids, and their effects on macrophage cholesterol efflux and its major pathways. Phytochemicals show the potential to improve the efficiency of each of these pathways. The findings are mainly in preclinical studies, and more clinical research is warranted in this area to develop novel clinical applications.

Stilbenes contribute to the anticancer effects of Rheum undulatum L. through activation of apoptosis

Rheum undulatum L. (R. undulatum) is a medicinal plant used for the treatment of inflammatory diseases in East Asian countries. Numerous stilbenes isolated from R. undulatum have been revealed to possess anticancer effects. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of extracts and compounds isolated from R. undulatum on human gastric cancer cell viability and to elucidate their molecular mechanism of action on the apoptosis pathway. The results demonstrated that aloe-emodin and chrysophanol 1-O-β-D-glucopyranoside, isolated from the methanolic extract of dried rhizomes of R. undulatum, exhibited anti-proliferative effects on the human gastric carcinoma cell line AGS, with IC₅₀ values of 84.66±0.44 and 68.28±0.29 µM, respectively. The percentage of apoptotic cells increased significantly following treatment with each compound at a concentration of 100 µM, compared with that in the non-treated group in the image-based cytometry assay. Western blot analysis revealed that these compounds activated the caspase cascade and inhibited B-cell lymphoma-2, an anti-apoptotic protein.

Phytochemistry, pharmacology, and clinical use of Panax notoginseng flowers buds

Panax notoginseng is a well-known traditional Chinese medicine, and dried flower buds of P. notoginseng (FBP) have also been used as a medicine or tea for a long time. The pharmacological effects of FBP include antihypertensive, anticancer, hepatoprotective, and cardiovascular protective effects. The compounds in FBP include saponins, flavonoids, volatile oils, and polysaccharides. The total saponins are the principal bioactive components. In modern applications, FBP is used to treat hypertension and tinnitus. There have been many studies on FBP and its effects in recent years, and it has attracted much attention in the medical field. This review summarizes the chemical components, pharmacological action, and clinical uses of FBP comprehensively to provide the references of deeper studies.

Protective Effect of Rosamultin against H2O2-Induced Oxidative Stress and Apoptosis in H9c2 Cardiomyocytes

Rosamultin is one of the main active compounds isolated from Potentilla anserina L., which belongs to a triterpene compound. Few studies have examined the effect of rosamultin on oxidative stress and its molecular mechanism. The aim of this present study was to elucidate the protective effect of rosamultin on H₂O₂-induced oxidative damage and apoptosis in H9c2 cardiomyocytes and its mechanism. The results showed that the pretreatment of rosamultin not only increased cell viability but also reduced the release of LDH and CK. Rosamultin inhibited a H₂O₂-induced decrease in SOD, CAT, and GSH-Px activities and an increase in MDA content. Meanwhile, ROS level, intracellular (Ca²⁺) fluorescence intensity, and apoptosis rate in the rosamultin pretreated group were markedly decreased compared with the model group. Rosamultin pretreatment significantly reversed the morphological changes and attenuated H₂O₂-induced apoptosis. Western blot analysis showed that rosamultin enhanced the expression of Bcl-2 and pCryAB and downregulated the expression of Bax, Cyt-c, Caspase-3, and Caspase-9 expression. Additionally, rosamultin might activate PI3K/Akt signal pathways and CryAB relative factors. Therefore, we suggest that rosamultin could have the potential for treating H₂O₂-induced oxidative stress injury through its antioxidant and antiapoptosis effect.

Hypocholesterolemic activity of cornelian cherry (Cornus mas L.) fruits

Background Lipid profile disturbances are important risk factors for cardiovascular events in patients with diabetes mellitus and finding safe and multifaceted agents is persuaded in this regard. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of cornelian cherry dried powder (CCDP) on serum lipid profile as well as liver antioxidant capacity, HMG-CoA reductase level and activity, and LDL receptor level in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Methods Forty-eight male adult Wistar rats were randomly allocated into eight equal groups and were treated for 4 weeks as follows: negative control (normal rats, basic diet); positive control (diabetic rats, basic diet), T1 to T4 groups: diabetic rats fed with basic diet containing 0.25, 0.5, 1 and 2 g/ 100 g BW CCDP, respectively; T5: diabetic rats fed with basic diet plus 10 mg/kg lovastatin in drinking water and T6: normal rats fed with basic diet containing 1 g/ 100 g BW CCDP. Results Administration of CCDP had no significant effect on serum glucose levels in diabetic rats however decreased total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and increased high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels and liver antioxidant capacity as compared to positive control rats (p<0.05). Although HMG-CoA reductase level showed a significant decrease only in T3 group, its activity was reduced in all diabetic CCDP and lovastatin-treated groups as compared to positive control. LDL receptor level remained statistically the same among positive control and CCDP-treated groups. Conclusions In conclusion, the present study confirms hypocholesterolemic effect of CCDP in diabetic rats and demonstrated that this effect was at least partly due to inhibition of liver HMG-CoA reductase activity.

Human Stem Cell-Derived Endothelial-Hepatic Platform for Efficacy Testing of Vascular-Protective Metabolites from Nutraceuticals

Atherosclerosis underlies many cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. Nutraceuticals are emerging as a therapeutic moiety for restoring vascular health. Unlike small-molecule drugs, the complexity of ingredients in nutraceuticals often confounds evaluation of their efficacy in preclinical evaluation. It is recognized that the liver is a vital organ in processing complex compounds into bioactive metabolites. In this work, we developed a coculture system of human pluripotent stem cell-derived endothelial cells (hPSC-ECs) and human pluripotent stem cell-derived hepatocytes (hPSC-HEPs) for predicting vascular-protective effects of nutraceuticals. To validate our model, two compounds (quercetin and genistein), known to have anti-inflammatory effects on vasculatures, were selected. We found that both quercetin and genistein were ineffective at suppressing inflammatory activation by interleukin-1β owing to limited metabolic activity of hPSC-ECs. Conversely, hPSC-HEPs demonstrated metabolic capacity to break down both nutraceuticals into primary and secondary metabolites. When hPSC-HEPs were cocultured with hPSC-ECs to permit paracrine interactions, the continuous turnover of metabolites mitigated interleukin-1β stimulation on hPSC-ECs. We observed significant reductions in inflammatory gene expressions, nuclear translocation of nuclear factor κB, and interleukin-8 production. Thus, integration of hPSC-HEPs could accurately reproduce systemic effects involved in drug metabolism in vivo to unravel beneficial constituents in nutraceuticals. This physiologically relevant endothelial-hepatic platform would be a great resource in predicting the efficacy of complex nutraceuticals and mechanistic interrogation of vascular-targeting candidate compounds. Stem Cells Translational Medicine 2017;6:851-863.

Dihydrotanshinone I Attenuates Atherosclerosis in ApoE-Deficient Mice: Role of NOX4/NF-κB Mediated Lectin-Like Oxidized LDL Receptor-1 (LOX-1) of the Endothelium

Dihydrotanshinone I (DHT) is a natural compound extracted from Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge which has been widely used for treating cardiovascular diseases. However, its role in atherosclerosis remains unclear. In this study, the effect of DHT on atherosclerosis were investigated using apolipoprotein E-deficient (ApoE^-/-) mice and endothelial cells. In lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs), DHT (10 nM) decreased lectin-like ox-LDL receptor-1 (LOX-1) and NADPH oxidase 4 (NOX4) expression, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, NF-κB nuclear translocation, ox-LDL endocytosis and monocytes adhesion. Silence NOX4 inhibited LPS-induced LOX-1 expression, NF-κB nuclear translocation, ox-LDL endocytosis and monocytes adhesion. In ApoE^-/- mice fed with an atherogenic diet, DHT (10 and 25 mg kg^-1) significantly attenuated atherosclerotic plaque formation, altered serum lipid profile, decreased oxidative stress and shrunk necrotic core areas. The enhanced expression of LOX-1, NOX4, and NF-κB in aorta was also dramatically inhibited by DHT. In conclusion, these results suggested that DHT showed anti-atherosclerotic activity through inhibition of LOX-1 mediated by NOX4/NF-κB signaling pathways both in vitro and in vivo. This finding suggested that DHT might be used as a potential vascular protective candidate for the treatment of atherosclerosis.

Triptolide inhibits the progression of atherosclerosis in apolipoprotein E-/- mice

Atherosclerosis, the major cause of cardiovascular disease, is accompanied by a chronic inflammatory response during the disease. Triptolide (TPL) is an active natural compound that has been demonstrated to possess anti-inflammatory activities in various cell types. However, the effects of TPL on atherosclerosis have not yet been studied. The goal of the present study was to determine the effects of TPL on apolipoprotein E knock-out (ApoE^-/^-) mice fed with a high-fat diet and to analyze the changes in lipid metabolism and inflammatory cytokines to clarify the underlying molecular mechanisms. Firstly, the genotypes of ApoE^-/^- mice and corresponding wild-type mice were identified using polymerase chain reaction. The ApoE^-/^- mice were randomly divided into four groups: ApoE^-/^- model mice, and ApoE^-/^- mice treated with 25, 50 or 100 µg/kg TPL every twice day. Wild-type mice with the same genetic background constituted the fifth group. The mice in each group were given a high-fat diet from week 8 after birth until week 20. Total cholesterol and total triglyceride levels were determined at 16 and 20 weeks. The results demonstrated that the levels of total cholesterol and total triglyceride in the plasma were highly increased in ApoE^-/^- mice models, compared with those of wild-type mice, and the ApoE^-/^- mice treated with TPL had decreased levels of total cholesterol and total triglyceride in plasma, which exhibited a dose-dependent reduction as the dose of TPL increased. Moreover, the effects of TPL on the production of inflammatory cytokines in macrophages were determined by ELISA. The results demonstrated that the macrophages from ApoE^-/^- mice produced high levels of the inflammatory cytokines tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6 and IL-8. However, following treatment with TPL doses of 25, 50 and 100 µg/kg, the cytokine levels were significantly decreased in a dose-dependent manner. Additionally, proteins associated with lipid metabolism were tested by western blotting. The results showed that the expression of anti-ATP-binding cassette transporter A1 in the macrophages of ApoE^-/^- mice was increased following treatment with TPL. However, the expression levels of LXRα were not markedly changed following treatment of the mice with different doses of TPL. These results suggest that TPL inhibited the progression of atherosclerosis not only by inhibiting the chronic inflammatory response, but also by regulating lipid metabolism, which may provide new insights useful in the clinical therapy of atherosclerosis.

Recent progress on the traditional Chinese medicines that regulate the blood

In traditional Chinese medicine, the herbs that regulate blood play a vital role. Here, nine herbs including Typhae Pollen, Notoginseng Root, Common Bletilla Tuber, India Madder Root and Rhizome, Chinese Arborvitae Twig, Lignum Dalbergiae Oderiferae, Chuanxiong Rhizoma, Corydalis Tuber, and Motherwort Herb were selected and reviewed for their recent studies on anti-tumor, anti-inflammatory and cardiovascular effects. Besides, the analytical methods developed to qualify or quantify the active compounds of the herbs are also summarized.

Near-Infrared Spectroscopy as an Analytical Process Technology for the On-Line Quantification of Water Precipitation Processes during Danhong Injection

This paper used near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy for the on-line quantitative monitoring of water precipitation during Danhong injection. For these NIR measurements, two fiber optic probes designed to transmit NIR radiation through a 2 mm flow cell were used to collect spectra in real-time. Partial least squares regression (PLSR) was developed as the preferred chemometrics quantitative analysis of the critical intermediate qualities: the danshensu (DSS, (R)-3, 4-dihydroxyphenyllactic acid), protocatechuic aldehyde (PA), rosmarinic acid (RA), and salvianolic acid B (SAB) concentrations. Optimized PLSR models were successfully built and used for on-line detecting of the concentrations of DSS, PA, RA, and SAB of water precipitation during Danhong injection. Besides, the information of DSS, PA, RA, and SAB concentrations would be instantly fed back to site technical personnel for control and adjustment timely. The verification experiments determined that the predicted values agreed with the actual homologic value.

Protocatechuic aldehyde inhibits TNF-α-induced fibronectin expression in human umbilical vein endothelial cells via a c-Jun N-terminal kinase dependent pathway

Fibronectin (FN) is one of the most important extracellular matrix proteins and plays an important role in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis (AS). The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of a potent, water-soluble antioxidant, protocatechuic aldehyde (PA), which is derived from the Chinese herb Salvia miltiorrhiza, on the expression of FN in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) stimulated with tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α). The pharmacological effects of PA on the production of FN were investigated using ELISA and western blot analysis. In addition, ELISA and western blot analysis were used to examine the activation and suppression of the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways and nuclear factor (NF)-κB in TNF-α-stimulated HUVECs, in order to explore the underlying pharmacological mechanism of PA. The inhibitory effect of PA on the total generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in TNF-α-stimulated HUVECs was assessed using 2',7'-dichlorofluorescein diacetate. Pretreatment of HUVECs with PA (0.15, 0.45 and 1.35 mM) for 18 h markedly attenuated the TNF-α-stimulated FN surface expression and secretion in a dose-dependent manner. Intracellular ROS generation and the expression of extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1 and 2 (ERK1/2), c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) and p38 MAPK (p38) were significantly induced by TNF-α (2 ng/ml) in HUVECs. TNF-α-induced ROS generation and JNK activation were inhibited by PA in a concentration-dependent manner. By contrast, ERK1/2 and p38 activation was not significantly affected by PA. Pretreatment of HUVECs with PA for 18 h markedly attenuated TNF-α-stimulated NF-κB activation. In conclusion, the present findings suggest that PA inhibits TNF-α-induced FN expression in HUVECs through a mechanism that involves ROS/JNK and NF-κB.

Upregulation of Collagen Expression via PPARβ/δ Activation in Aged Skin by Magnesium Lithospermate B from Salvia miltiorrhiza

This study investigated the agonistic activity of magnesium lithospermate B (1), isolated from Salvia miltiorrhiza, on peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPARβ/δ) and the expressions of collagen genes (COL1A1 and COL3A1) and transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) in models of skin aging. The action of compound 1 as a PPARβ/δ agonist was determined by reporter gene assay, immunostaining, and Western blotting. To determine the antiaging effects of compound 1 on skin, aged Sprague-Dawley rat skin and ultraviolet B (UVB)-irradiated human skin fibroblasts were used. The results show that 1 presented a marked enhancement of both nuclear protein levels and activity of PPARβ/δ in fibroblasts. In addition, 1 prevented downregulation of PPARβ/δ activity in aged rat skin and UVB-induced fibroblasts. Furthermore, 1 increased the expressions of COL1A1, COL3A1, and TGF-β1 in vivo and in a cell culture system. Therefore, the present study shows that compound 1 prevents collagen degradation in aged rat skin and UVB-exposed fibroblasts through PPARβ/δ activation. The therapeutic and cosmetic applications of compound 1 need further investigation.

Antihypercholesterolemic and antioxidant efficacies of zerumbone on the formation, development, and establishment of atherosclerosis in cholesterol-fed rabbits

Owing to the high incidence of cholesterol-induced cardiovascular disease, particularly atherosclerosis, the current study was designed to investigate the preventive and therapeutic efficacies of dietary zerumbone (ZER) supplementation on the formation and development of atherosclerosis in rabbits fed with a high cholesterol diet. A total of 72 New Zealand white rabbits were divided randomly on two experimental studies carried out 8 weeks apart. The first experiment was designed to investigate the prophylactic efficacy of ZER in preventing early developed atheromatous lesion. The second experimental trial was aimed at investigating the therapeutic effect of ZER in reducing the atherosclerotic lesion progression and establishment. Sudanophilia, histopathological, and ultrastructural changes showed pronounced reduction in the plaque size in ZER-medicated aortas. On the other hand, dietary supplementation of ZER for almost 10 weeks as a prophylactic measure indicated substantially decreasing lipid profile values, and similarly, plaque size in comparison with high-cholesterol non-supplemented rabbits. Furthermore, the results of oxidative stress and antioxidant biomarker evaluation indicated that ZER is a potent antioxidant in suppressing the generation of free radicals in terms of atherosclerosis prevention and treatment. ZER significantly reduced the value of malondialdehyde and augmented the value of superoxide dismutase. In conclusion, our data indicated that dietary supplementation of ZER at doses of 8, 16, and 20 mg/kg alone as a prophylactic measure, and as a supplementary treatment with simvastatin, significantly reduced early plague formation, development, and establishment via significant reduction in serum lipid profile, together with suppression of oxidative damage, and therefore alleviated atherosclerosis lesions.

Tanshinone IIA, a major component of Salvia milthorriza Bunge, inhibits platelet activation via Erk-2 signaling pathway

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The roots of Salvia milthorriza Bunge (Lamiaceae) known as "Danshen", are used in Traditional Chinese Medicine as a remedy for activating blood and eliminating stasis. TIIA, a diterpenoid of Salvia milthorriza, is one of active components in Danshen that exhibits a significant improvement of the blood flow in the coronary circulatory system and a reduction of myocardial infarction. However, its effect on platelet and underlying mechanism remains largely unknown. On this basis, this compound could be a promising agent to improve blood viscosity and microcirculation and to prevent CVD.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In order to investigate the effects of TIIA on platelet functionality and its interaction with various platelet activation pathways, rat PRP were incubated with TIIA for 1 min at 37°C prior the addition of the stimuli (ADP or collagen). Aggregation was monitored in a light transmission aggregometer measuring changes in turbidity with continuous observation up to 10 min after the addition of the stimuli. MAPK signaling pathway and tubulin acetylation were analyzed by a Western blot technique. The effect of the TIIA was also studied in vivo on bleeding time in mice.

RESULTS

TIIA selectively inhibited rat platelet aggregation induced by reversible ADP stimuli (3 μM) in a concentration-dependent manner (0.5-50 μM). Nevertheless, TIIA was less active against the irreversible stimuli induced by ADP (10 μM) and collagen (10 μg/mL). Moreover, experiments performed on platelet lysates collected at different time-point after the addition of the stimuli shown that TIIA modulated tubulin acetylation and inhibited Erk-2 phosphorylation. Concomitantly, TIIA administrated i.p. at 10 mg/kg significantly amplified the mice bleeding time with an increase of 58% compared to its control (2.06±0.29 min vs 1.30±0.07). ASA was used as reference drug for in vitro and in vivo experiments.

CONCLUSIONS

This study clarifies the intracellular signaling pathway involved in antiplatelet action of TIIA and also gives preliminary evidences for its anticoagulant activity. On this basis, this compound could be a promising agent to improve blood viscosity and microcirculation and to prevent CVD.

Atheroprotective potentials of curcuminoids against ginger extract in hypercholesterolaemic rabbits

The anti-atherogenic potentials of total ginger (Zingiber officinale) extract (TGE) or curcuminoids extracted from turmeric (Curcuma longa), members of family Zingiberaceae, were compared in hypercholesterolaemia. Rabbits were fed either normal or atherogenic diet. The rabbits on atherogenic diet received treatments with TGE or curcumenoids and placebo concurrently for 6 weeks (n = 6). The anti-atherogenic effects of curcuminoids and ginger are mediated via multiple mechanisms. This effect was correlated with their ability to lower cholesteryl ester transfer protein activity. Ginger extract exerted preferential effects on plasma lipids, reverse cholesterol transport, cholesterol synthesis and inflammatory status. Curcuminoids, however, showed superior antioxidant activity.

Anti-atherosclerosis and hyperlipidemia effects of herbal mixture, Artemisia iwayomogi Kitamura and Curcuma longa Linne, in apolipoprotein E-deficient mice

ETHNOPHARMACOLGICAL RELEVANCE

Artemisiaiwayomogi Kitamura and Curcuma longa Linne. (ACE) has been popularly used to treat atherosclerosis as well as hyperlipidemia in the Asian countries.

OBJECTIVE

Antiatherosclerotic and anti-hyperlipidemic effects of ACE were evaluated at protein and gene expression level by using apoE(-/-) mice.

METHOD

Apoprotein E deficient (apoE(-/-)) mice were randomly divided into five groups and fed freely Western diet (WD) which contained ACE (50, 100 and 200mg/kg) or curcumin (50mg/kg). The C57/BLJ mice were used as normal and which were fed the WD. After 10 weeks of being fed the WD, the atherosclerosis related mediators and hyperlipidemia induced hepatic steatosis were analyzed in serum, aorta tissue or hepatic tissues.

RESULTS

Ten-week feeding of WD considerably increased the serum lipid profiles including total cholesterol (TC), low density lipoprotein, high density lipoprotein (HDL), triglyceride, TC/HDL ratio and glucose, and also elevated the total reactive oxygen species (ROS) and inflammatory cytokines (tumor necrosis factor-α, TNF-α; and interlukin-6, IL-6) in the serum levels. ACE treatment significantly resolved these alterations. The aortic lesion formation was significantly decreased as were lipid formations by ACE treatment. Moreover, ACE not only caused significant decreases of the lipid drops on the hepatic tissues, but also restored the antioxidant components. The gene expression levels including SREBP-1c, FAS, SCD-1, PPAR-α, CPT-1, IL-6, IL-1β and TNF-α in hepatic tissue were altered by Western diet fed in apoE(-/-) mice, while ACE treatment significantly normalized those alterations.

CONCLUSIONS

The ACE treatment is beneficial for atherosclerosis in arterial area and hyperlipidemia induced hepatic tissue steatosis.

Evaluating the anti-inflammatory potential of Tectaria cicutaria L. rhizome extract in vitro as well as in vivo

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The rhizome of Tectaria cicutaria has been used in the folklore system of Indian traditional medicine (Ayurveda) for the treatment of various disorders such as rheumatic pain, chest complaints, burns, sprain, poisonous bites, tonsilitis, toothache, gum complaints, cuts and wounds. The present work has for the first time tried to elucidate the anti-inflammatory potential of aqueous extract of Tectaria cicutaria rhizome (TCRaq) in vitro as well as in vivo.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Anti-inflammatory potential of TCRaq was analyzed in vivo in carrageenan induced rat paw edema model. Serum antioxidant status in TCRaq-treated as well as untreated control rodents was measured by oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) assay. In vitro experiments for analyzing the anti-inflammatory potential of TCRaq were performed on murine macrophage cell line, RAW 264.7. Analysis of nitric oxide release in RAW 264.7 cells was done by Griess reaction. RT-PCR and western blotting experiment was performed to analyze the expression of iNOS. Expression of COX-2 and NFκB proteins was evaluated by western blotting.

RESULTS

TCRaq significantly reduced the paw volume in Sprague-Dawley rats at a dose of 200mg/kg body weight, which was comparable with the standard diclofenac treatment. The rats treated with TCRaq showed a significant increase in the serum antioxidant levels compared to the untreated control animals. TCRaq was able to reduce the nitric oxide (NO) levels in RAW 264.7 cells that had been stimulated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). This was accompanied by a corresponding decrease in iNOS expression at mRNA and protein level. Interestingly, TCRaq was found to decrease the expression of COX-2 as well as the nuclear translocation of NFκB in RAW 264.7 cells.

CONCLUSION

Our study signifies the anti-inflammatory potential of Tectaria cicutaria and scientifically validates its traditional use in inflammatory conditions.

Investigation of the lipid-modifying and antiinflammatory effects of Cornus mas L. supplementation on dyslipidemic children and adolescents

Cornus mas L. (CM) fruits are rich in anthocyanins and possess both antiinflammatory and antioxidant activities. The current study was conducted to investigate whether supplementation with CM could ameliorate lipid profile and vascular inflammation in dyslipidemic children and adolescents. In this randomized clinical trial, 40 dyslipidemic children and adolescents ages 9 to 16 years were assigned to receive 50 g of CM twice a day after lunch and dinner (n = 20, case group) or to continue their normal diet (n = 20, control group). The serum levels of total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), triglycerides (TG), apo A-I, apo B, intracellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1), vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1), C-reactive protein (CRP), and anthropometric indices were determined at baseline and then after weeks 3 and 6 of the trial. After week 6 of the trial, the TC, TG, LDL-C, apo B, ICAM-1, and VCAM-1 levels in the CM group were significantly lower and the HDL-C and apo A-I levels higher than at baseline. After week 6 of the trial, none of these parameters in the control group, except for ICAM-1, was significantly altered from baseline. However, between-group comparison showed a significant difference only for apo A-I (p = 0.016) and a borderline significant difference for ICAM-1 (p = 0.076). No significant difference in body mass index, waist-to-hip ratio, or C-reactive protein was observed between the studied groups. The present findings revealed a trend toward amelioration of lipid profile and vascular inflammation following addition of CM to the daily diet of dyslipidemic children and adolescents but this needs to be verified by larger scale trials.

Improved lipid profile in hyperlipidemic patients taking Vaccinium arctostaphylos fruit hydroalcoholic extract: a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial

Dyslipidemia is a common contributory cause of cardiovascular disease. Vaccinium arctostaphylos L. (Caucasian whortleberry) fruit is rich of anthocyanins. Anthocyanins may exert cardioprotective effects by various mechanisms such as favorably modulating dyslipidemia. Therefore, in this randomized double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial with hyperlipidemic (hypercholesterolemic and/or hypertriglyceridemic) patients aged 20-60 years, the effects of taking a standardized whortleberry fruit hydroalcoholic extract (one 350 mg capsule every 8 h for 2 months) on fasting blood levels of lipids, creatinine and liver enzymes including SGOT and SGPT were evaluated in 40 patients and compared with the placebo group (n = 40). The extract lowered the blood levels of total cholesterol (P < 0.001), triglyceride (P = 0.002) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) (P = 0.002), but increased the blood high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels (P < 0.001) without any significant effects on the blood levels of SGOT, SGPT and creatinine (P > 0.05) compared with the placebo group at the endpoint. Whortleberry reduced total cholesterol, triglyceride and LDL-C 27.6%, 19.2% and 26.3%, respectively, but increased HDL-C 37.5% compared with baseline. No adverse effects were reported. Short-term treatment with whortleberry fruit appears safe and improves lipid profile in hyperlipidemic patients.

Inhibitory effects and mechanisms of luteolin on proliferation and migration of vascular smooth muscle cells

Atherosclerosis (AS) is a complicated progress, involving many types of cells. Although the exact mechanisms of progression of atherosclerosis are uncertain, the balance of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) proliferation and apoptosis appears to play a pivotal role in the pathogenesis and progression of atherosclerosis, and much discussion has been undertaken to elucidate the detailed mechanisms, relevant gene expression and transduction pathways. Drug treatment has focused on ameliorating atherosclerosis. Some researchers have indicated that inhibiting VSMCs proliferation is involved in attenuating atherosclerosis. Luteolin is a kind of flavonoids naturally occurring in many plants and possesses beneficial effects on cardiovascular diseases. Luteolin can reduce VSMCs’ proliferation and migration and this reduction is stimulated by several factors. The aim of this review is to summarize the existing inhibitory effects and mechanisms of luteolin on proliferation and migration of VSMCs, and consider whether luteolin may be a potential candidate for preventing and treating atherosclerosis.

Lipidomic and metabolomic analyses reveal potential plasma biomarkers of early atheromatous plaque formation in hamsters

AIMS

Atherosclerosis is the main pathological process contributing to cardiovascular disease, with diet being the most important factor involved. Although the lipidome of atheromatous plaque has been studied previously, the use of comparative lipidomics and metabolomics in plasma in early atherogenesis could lead to the discovery of plasma biomarkers that allow not only disease prediction but also measurement of disease progression.

METHODS AND RESULTS

High-throughput techniques, such as liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry, allowed us to compare the circulating and aortic lipidome and plasma metabolome in order to look for new molecular targets involved in atherogenesis. To achieve this objective, we chose the hamster (Mesocricetus auratus) as the best small animal model for diet-induced early atherosclerosis, because its lipoprotein metabolism is similar to that of humans. The results revealed the existence of several, previously unreported, changes in lipid and amino-acid metabolism, the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ pathway, and oxidative and endoplasmic reticulum stress, also involving cell senescence. Furthermore, as a proof of concept in the modelling of dietary influences in atherogenesis, we have measured the effect of a potential anti-atherogenic polyphenol extract on the reported pathways. Our results support a previously unknown role for taurocholic acid as a potential plasma biomarker of early atheromatous plaque formation.

CONCLUSION

The use of comparative liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry-based lipidomics and metabolomics allows the discovery of novel pathways in atherogenesis, as well as new potential plasma biomarkers, which could allow us to predict disease in its early stages and measure its progression.

Effects of piperine, cinnamic acid and gallic acid on rosuvastatin pharmacokinetics in rats

The purpose of this study was to investigate the potential pharmacokinetic interactions with natural products (such as piperine (PIP), gallic acid (GA) and cinnamic acid (CA)) and rosuvastatin (RSV) (a specific breast cancer resistance protein, BCRP substrate) in rats. In Caco2 cells, the polarized transport of RSV was effectively inhibited by PIP, CA and GA at concentration of 50 μM. After per oral (p.o.) coadministration of PIP, CA and GA (10 mg/kg) significantly increased intravenous exposure (AUC(last)) of RSV (1 mg/kg) by 73.5%, 62.9% and 53.3% (p < 0.05), respectively than alone group (control). Compared with the control (alone) group, p.o. coadministration of PIP, CA and GA (10 mg/kg) significantly increased the oral exposure (AUC(last)) of RSV (5 mg/kg) by 2.0-fold, 1.83-fold (p < 0.05) and 2.34 -fold (p < 0.05), respectively. Moreover, the cumulative biliary excretion of RSV (5 mg/kg, p.o.) was significantly decreased by 53.3, 33.4 and 39.2% at the end of 8 h after p.o. co-administration of PIP, CA and GA (10 mg/kg), respectively. Taken together, these results indicate that the natural products such as PIP, CA and GA significantly inhibit RSV transport in to bile and increased the plasma exposure (AUC(last)) of RSV.

Inhibition effect of curcumin on TNF-α and MMP-13 expression induced by advanced glycation end products in chondrocytes

AIMS

Accumulation of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) plays a pivotal role in the mechanism by which aging contributes to osteoarthritis (OA). In the present study, we examined the effect of curcumin, a pharmacologically safe phytochemical agent, on AGE-induced tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and matrix metalloproteinase-13 (MMP-13) in rabbit chondrocytes.

METHODS

Chondrocytes were derived from rabbit articular cartilage by enzymatic digestion. TNF-α and MMP-13 mRNA was monitored by RT-PCR. TNF-α protein was determined using cytokine-specific ELISA. The reactive oxygen species was determined by the fluorescent probe 29,79-dichlorofluorescein diacetate. The phosphorylation and nuclear translocation of the nuclear factor-ĸB (NF-ĸB) system were studied by Western blot and immunofluorescence respectively.

RESULTS

Curcumin significantly decreased AGE-stimulated TNF-α and MMP-13 mRNA and suppressed the NF-ĸB activation via inhibition of ĸBα (I-ĸBα) phosphorylation, I-ĸBα degradation and p65 nuclear translocation.

CONCLUSIONS

These novel pharmacological actions of curcumin on AGE-stimulated chondrocytes provide new suggestions that curcumin has nutritional potential as a naturally occurring anti-inflammatory agent for treating OA.

Tanshinones: sources, pharmacokinetics and anti-cancer activities

Tanshinones are a class of abietane diterpene compound isolated from Salvia miltiorrhiza (Danshen or Tanshen in Chinese), a well-known herb in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Since they were first identified in the 1930s, more than 40 lipophilic tanshinones and structurally related compounds have been isolated from Danshen. In recent decades, numerous studies have been conducted to investigate the isolation, identification, synthesis and pharmacology of tanshinones. In addition to the well-studied cardiovascular activities, tanshinones have been investigated more recently for their anti-cancer activities in vitro and in vivo. In this review, we update the herbal and alternative sources of tanshinones, and the pharmacokinetics of selected tanshinones. We discuss anti-cancer properties and identify critical issues for future research. Whereas previous studies have suggested anti-cancer potential of tanshinones affecting multiple cellular processes and molecular targets in cell culture models, data from in vivo potency assessment experiments in preclinical models vary greatly due to lack of uniformity of solvent vehicles and routes of administration. Chemical modifications and novel formulations had been made to address the poor oral bioavailability of tanshinones. So far, human clinical trials have been far from ideal in their design and execution for the purpose of supporting an anti-cancer indication of tanshinones.

Protective effect of polyphenols extract of adlay (Coix lachryma-jobi L. var. ma-yuen Stapf) on hypercholesterolemia-induced oxidative stress in rats

The present study examines the effect of polyphenols extract of adlay (Coix lachryma-jobi L. var. ma-yuen Stapf) (APE) on high cholesterol diet fed rats (HCD). APE was orally administrated by gavage at doses of 10, 40 and 200 mg total phenolics/kg body weight of rats once a day for 28 days. At the end of four weeks, serum triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC), low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), and markers of oxidative stress viz., malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) in the serum and liver of HCD and normal rats were assessed and compared. The results showed that administration of APE was significantly effective in decreasing the serum levels of TC, LDL-C and MDA, increasing the serum level of HDL-C and antioxidant capacity. In addition, oral gavage of APE could also increase the antioxidant capacity, CAT and GSH-Px activities in liver. These results suggested that APE exerted a high hypocholesterolemic and antioxidant activities, which might be characterized by a protective effect on cardiovascular health in vivo.