The Mechanism of Memory Enhancement of Acteoside (Verbascoside) in the Senescent Mouse Model Induced by a Combination of D-gal and AlCl3

Primary components of MCT ketogenic diet are detrimental to bone loss associated with accelerated aging and age-related neurotoxicity in mice

Medium chained triglycerides (MCT) ketogenic diet is being extensively investigated for its neuroprotective effects against adverse effects associated with aging and neurodegenerative disorders. Aging is a common risk factor for the development of both osteoporosis and neurological disorders. Hence, suppression of aging and age-related neurodegeneration might contribute to delaying skeletal aging. The present study was designed to investigate the effects of the primary components of the MCT diet, against bone resorption associated with D-gal-induced accelerated aging and D-gal /AlCl3-induced age-related toxicity. We report bone loss in accelerated aged mice and age-related neurotoxic mice through declined Sirtuin1 (SIRT1) expression, depleted bone turnover markers, (P1NP and β-CTX-1), low bone mineral density (BMD), and deterioration of trabecular bone microarchitecture in both the distal femur and proximal tibia bones. Administration of MCT dietary components decanoic acid and octanoic acid, led to a decrease in body weight and only octanoic acid increased serum levels of ketone body, β-hydroxybutyrate (β-HB), but both of them failed to reverse the diminishing effects on bone health associated with aging and age-related neurotoxicity. Surprisingly, decanoic acid, octanoic acid, and their combination also exhibited negative effects on trabecular bone microarchitecture and BMD in the distal femur and proximal tibia bones of healthy mice. The findings from this study provide supporting evidence on the deterioration of bone health associated with aging and age-related neurotoxicity, and the bone resorption potential of MCT dietary supplements that are being prescribed in healthy older populations and elderly persons diagnosed with neurological disorders.

Study on the role of Dihuang Yinzi in regulating the AMPK/SIRT1/PGC-1α pathway to promote mitochondrial biogenesis and improve Alzheimer's disease

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Dihuang Yinzi (DHYZ) is a classic prescription in traditional Chinese medicine. Its therapeutic effect on Alzheimer's disease (AD) has been widely validated. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms of DHYZ in AD treatment remain unclear and require further research.

AIM OF THE STUDY

Elucidating DHYZ's promotion of mitochondrial biogenesis through the AMPK/SIRT1/PGC-1α pathway improves neuronal loss, mitochondrial damage, and memory deficits in AD.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Administering DHYZ by gavage to SAMP8 mice, after completing behavioral tests, the effects of DHYZ on hippocampal neuron loss and mitochondrial structural damage in AD model mice were assessed using Nissl staining and transmission electron microscopy. Western blot was used to detect the expression of mitochondrial biogenesis-related proteins PGC-1α, CREB, mitochondrial fusion protein MFN2, and mitochondrial fission proteins DRP1 and FIS1. At the same time, immunofluorescence (IF) was employed to measure the relative fluorescence intensity of mitochondrial fusion protein MFN1. After determining the optimal dose of DYHZ for treating AD, we conducted mechanistic studies. By intraperitoneally injecting SAMP8 mice with the AMPK inhibitor (Compound C) to inhibit AMPK protein expression and subsequently treating them with DHYZ, the impact of DHYZ on hippocampal neurons in AD model mice was evaluated using Nissl and hematoxylin-eosin staining. Western blot was used to detect the protein expression of AMPK, p-AMPK, SIRT1, PGC-1α, NRF1, and TFAM. In contrast, IF was used to measure the relative fluorescence intensity of PGC-1α, NRF1, and TFAM proteins in the hippocampal CA1 region.

RESULTS

DHYZ significantly improved AD model mice's cognitive impairment and memory deficits and mitigated hippocampal neuron loss and degeneration. Additionally, it ameliorated mitochondrial morphological structures. DHYZ upregulated the protein expression of mitochondrial biogenesis-related proteins PGC-1α, CREB, and mitochondrial fusion proteins MFN1 and MFN2 while inhibiting the expression of mitochondrial fission proteins DRP1 and FIS1. Further studies revealed that DHYZ could upregulate the expression of the AMPK/SIRT1/PGC-1α pathway proteins and their downstream proteins NRF1 and TFAM.

CONCLUSION

DHYZ promotes mitochondrial biogenesis by activating the AMPK/SIRT1/PGC-1α signaling pathway, thereby improving memory deficits, neuronal loss, and mitochondrial dysfunction in AD.

Network pharmacology-based analysis of Jin-Si-Wei on the treatment of Alzheimer's disease

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Jin-Si-Wei (JSW), a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) formula, have cognitive enhancing effect and delay the memory decline in an animal model of AD， which has been reported. However, the therapeutic mechanism of JSW in the treatment of AD remains unclear.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study aimed to verify the pharmacodynamics of JSW in the treatment of AD, and to explore its potential mechanism based on network pharmacology, molecular docking and experimental validation both in vitro and in vivo.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this study, the underlying mechanism of JSW against AD was investigated by the integration of network pharmacology. Then, the core pathways and biological process of JSW were verified by experiment, including behavioral test and pathological and biochemical assays with 6-month-old APPswe/PS1ΔE9 transgenic (APP/PS1) mice in vivo and verified with Aβ1-42-stimulated SH-SY5Y cells in vitro. At last, molecular docking was used to show the binding activity of each active ingredient to the core genes of JSW treatment in AD.

RESULTS

A Drug-Ingredient-Target network was established, which included 363 ingredients and 116 targets related to the JSW treatment of AD. The main metabolic pathway of JSW treatment for AD is neuroactive ligand-receptor interaction pathway, and biological processes are mainly involved in Aβ metabolic process. In vivo experiments, compared with APP/PS1 mice, the cognitive and memory ability of mice was significantly improved after JSW administration. In brain tissue of APP/PS1 mice, JSW could increase the contents of low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 1 (LRP-1), enkephalinase (NEP) and Acetyl choline (ACh), and decrease the contents of Aβ1-42, amyloid precursor protein (APP) and receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE), decrease the vitality of cholinesterase (AChE) and choline acetyltransferase (ChAT). Besides, JSW could increase α-secretase expression and decrease β/γ-secretase expression, and improve the number and morphology of synapses in CA1 region of the hippocampus of APP/PS1 mice. In vitro experiments, Drug-Containing Serum (JSW-serum) has a neuroprotective effect by reducing the apoptosis on Aβ1-42-stimulated SH-SY5Y cells. Molecular docking results showed that 2-Isopropyl-8-methylphenanthrene-3,4-dione had strong binding activity with PTGS2, which maybe a potential ingredient for the treatment of AD.

CONCLUSIONS

JSW improves AD in APP/PS1 mice, and this therapeutic effect may be achieved in part by altering the neuroactive ligand-receptor interaction pathway.

Isolation and structure elucidation of the compounds from Teucrium hyrcanicum L. and the investigation of cytotoxicity, antioxidant activity, and protective effect on hydrogen peroxide-induced oxidative stress

BACKGROUND

Teucrium hyrcanicum L. (family Lamiaceae) is widely distributed in the North and Northwest of Iran. It has been used in the form of tea, tonic, and tincture for the treatment of various diseases such as cough, rheumatism, and fever.

METHODS

In this study, the total phenolic and flavonoid contents, antioxidant and cytotoxic activities of methanol extract and different fractions of T. hyrcanicum were measured. Furthermore, the potential ability of T. hyrcanicum to protect against H2O2-induced oxidative stress was tested on the NIH3T3 cell line. Then, the isolation and structure elucidation of the compounds were performed on the most potent fractions. Finally, the quantification of isolated compounds in methanol extract (ME) was done by the HPLC method. Isolated phytochemicals were assessed for the cytotoxic and antioxidant activities.

RESULTS

The results indicated that the methanol fraction (MF) had the highest amount of phenolic and flavonoid contents (69.36 mg GAE/g extract and 68.95 mg QE/g extract). The highest radical scavenging activities were observed from MF and ME (IC50 44.32 and 61.12 μg.ml-1, respectively). The best cytotoxicity was obtained by ethyl acetate fraction (EF) against A431 and MCF7 cell lines (IC50 values of 235.4and 326.6 μg.ml-1, respectively). The pretreatment with MF exerts the highest reduction in malondialdehyde (MDA) formation (IC50 2.51 μM, p < 0.001) compared to the H2O2 group (5.77 μM). Also, MF significantly inhibited H2O2-induced Glutathione (GSH) oxidation (p < 0.001). Furthermore, two phenolic compounds, acteoside and quercetin, were isolated and identified in MF and EF, respectively. The IC50 values of acteoside and quercetin in the DPPH assay were 7.19 and 5.56 µg.ml-1, respectively. Both quercetin and acteoside significantly reduced the MDA formation and inhibited GSH oxidation, which was comparable with BHA (as a standard antioxidant) (p < 0.05). Acteoside demonstrated significant cytotoxicity against all tested cell lines (IC50 = 32 to 145 μg.ml-1). The HPLC quantification of isolated compounds revealed that the quantity of acteoside and quercetin in ME were 93.31 and 16.87 μg.mg-1, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The isolated compounds (quercetin and acteoside) had significant antioxidant activities and revealed a protective effect on H2O2-induced oxidative stress which was comparable with BHA.

Verbascoside: A neuroprotective phenylethanoid glycosides with anti-depressive properties

BACKGROUND

Verbascoside is a natural and water-soluble phenylethanoid glycoside found in several medicinal plants. It has extensive pharmacological effects, including antioxidative and antineoplastic actions, and a wide range of therapeutic effects against depression.

PURPOSE

In this review, we appraised preclinical and limited clinical evidence to fully discuss the anti-depression capacity of verbascoside and its holistic characteristics that can contribute to better management of depression in vivo and in vitro models, as well as, its toxicities and medicinal value.

METHODS

This review was prepared according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). A systematic review of 32 preclinical trials published up to April 2023, combined with a comprehensive bioinformatics analysis of network pharmacology and molecular docking, was conducted to elucidate the antidepressant mechanism of action of verbascoside. Studies included in the systematic review were obtained from 7 electronic databases: PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane, ResearchGate, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar.

RESULTS

Studies on the antidepressant effects of verbascoside showed that various pharmacological mechanisms and pathways, such as modulating the levels of monoamine neurotransmitters, inhibiting hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis hyperfunction and promoting neuroprotection may be involved in the process of its action against depression. Verbascoside promotes dopamine (DA) biosynthesis by promoting the expression of tyrosine hydroxylase mRNA and protein, upregulates the expression of 5-hydroxytryptamine receptor 1B (5-HT1B), prominence protein, microtubule-associated protein 2 (MAP2), hemeoxygenase-1 (HO-1), SQSTM1, Recombinant Autophagy Related Protein 5 (ATG5) and Beclin-1, and decreases the expression of caspase-3 and a-synuclein, thus exerting antidepressant effects. We identified seven targets (CCL2, FOS, GABARAPL1, CA9, TYR, CA12, and SQSTM1) and three signaling pathways (glutathione metabolism, metabolism of xenobiotics by cytochrome P450, fluid shear stress and atherosclerosis) as potential molecular biological sites for verbascoside.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings provide strong evidence that verbascoside exerts its antidepressant effects through various pharmacological mechanisms. However, further multicentre clinical case-control and molecularly targeted fishing studies are required to confirm the clinical efficacy of verbascoside and its underlying direct targets.

Inflammation and aging: signaling pathways and intervention therapies

Aging is characterized by systemic chronic inflammation, which is accompanied by cellular senescence, immunosenescence, organ dysfunction, and age-related diseases. Given the multidimensional complexity of aging, there is an urgent need for a systematic organization of inflammaging through dimensionality reduction. Factors secreted by senescent cells, known as the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP), promote chronic inflammation and can induce senescence in normal cells. At the same time, chronic inflammation accelerates the senescence of immune cells, resulting in weakened immune function and an inability to clear senescent cells and inflammatory factors, which creates a vicious cycle of inflammation and senescence. Persistently elevated inflammation levels in organs such as the bone marrow, liver, and lungs cannot be eliminated in time, leading to organ damage and aging-related diseases. Therefore, inflammation has been recognized as an endogenous factor in aging, and the elimination of inflammation could be a potential strategy for anti-aging. Here we discuss inflammaging at the molecular, cellular, organ, and disease levels, and review current aging models, the implications of cutting-edge single cell technologies, as well as anti-aging strategies. Since preventing and alleviating aging-related diseases and improving the overall quality of life are the ultimate goals of aging research, our review highlights the critical features and potential mechanisms of inflammation and aging, along with the latest developments and future directions in aging research, providing a theoretical foundation for novel and practical anti-aging strategies.

Scutellaria incarnata Vent. root extract and isolated phenylethanoid glycosides are neuroprotective against C2-ceramide toxicity

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Neuronal death is a central process in neurodegenerative diseases and represents a therapeutic challenge for their prevention and treatment. Scutellaria incarnata Vent. roots are used traditionally in Colombia for central nervous system conditions including those affecting cognitive functions, but their chemistry and neuroprotective action remain to be explored to understand the scientific basis for their medicinal uses. In this study, S. incarnata roots are investigated to assess whether they have neuroprotective effects that could provide some explanation for their traditional use in neurodegenerative diseases.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To evaluate the neuroprotective effect of S. incarnata roots and its chemical constituents against C₂-ceramide-induced cell death in Cath.-a-differentiated (CAD) cells.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

S. incarnata root ethanol extract was fractionated and compounds were isolated by column chromatography; their structures were elucidated by nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, mass spectrometry and infrared spectroscopy. The cytotoxic and neuroprotective effects against C₂-ceramide of S. incarnata root extract, fractions and isolated compounds were assessed in CAD cells.

RESULTS

S. incarnata root extract and its n-butanol fraction were not cytotoxic but showed neuroprotective effects against C₂-ceramide toxicity in CAD cells. The phenylethanoid glycosides incarnatoside (isolated for the first time) and stachysoside C (12.5, 25 and 50 μg/mL) from S. incarnata roots also protected CAD cells against C₂-ceramide without inducing cytotoxic effects.

CONCLUSION

The observed neuroprotective effects of S. incarnata root extract and isolated phenylethanoid glycosides in CAD cells provide an ethnopharmacological basis for the traditional use of this species in Colombia for central nervous system disorders.

Phenylethanoid Glycosides of Cistanche Improve Learning and Memory Disorders in APP/PS1 Mice by Regulating Glial Cell Activation and Inhibiting TLR4/NF-κB Signaling Pathway

Phenylethanoid Glycosides of Cistanche (PhGs) have a certain curative effect on AD animal model, Echinacea (ECH) and verbascoside (ACT), as the quality control standard of Cistanche deserticola Y. C. Ma and the main representative compounds of PhGs have been proved to have neuroprotective effects, but the specific mechanism needs to be further explored. This study explored the mechanisms of PhGs, ECH, and ACT in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease (AD) from the perspectives of glial cell activation, TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway, and synaptic protein expression. We used APP/PS1 mice as AD models. After treatment with PhGs, ECH, and ACT, the learning and memory abilities of APP/PS1 mice were enhanced, and the pathological changes in brain tissue were alleviated. The expression of pro-inflammatory M1 microglia markers (CD11b, iNOS, and IL-1β) was decreased; the expression of M2 microglia markers (Arg-1 and TGF-β1) was increased, which promoted the transformation of microglia from M1 pro-inflammatory phenotype to M2 anti-inflammatory phenotype. In addition, PhGs, ECH, and ACT could down-regulate the expression of proteins related to the TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway and up-regulate the expression of synaptic proteins. The results indicated that PhGs, ECH, and ACT played a neuroprotective role by regulating the activation of glial cells and inhibiting the TLR4/NF-κB inflammatory pathway, and improving the expression levels of synapse-related proteins.

Studies on Cistanches Herba: A Bibliometric Analysis

As a famous tonic herb, Cistanches Herba is known for its broad medicinal functions, especially its hormone balancing, anti-aging, anti-dementia, anti-tumor, anti-oxidative, neuroprotective, and hepatoprotective effects. This study aims to provide a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of studies on Cistanche and to identify research hotspots and frontier topics on the genus. Based on the metrological analysis software CiteSpace, 443 Cistanche related papers were quantitatively reviewed. The results indicate that 330 institutions from 46 countries have publications in this field. China was the leading country in terms of research importance and number of publication (335 articles). In the past decades, studies on Cistanche have mainly focused on its rich active substances and pharmacological effects. Although the research trend shows that Cistanche has grown from an endangered species to an important industrial plant, its breeding and cultivation continue to be important areas for research. In the future, the application of Cistanche species as functional foods may be a new research trend. In addition, active collaborations among researchers, institutions, and countries are expected.

Bioactive Compounds of Verbascum sinuatum L.: Health Benefits and Potential as New Ingredients for Industrial Applications

Verbascum sinuatum (V. sinuatum) is a plant belonging to the Scrophulariaceae family that has been used as an ingredient in traditional medicine infusions for the treatment of many diseases. The aerial part of this plant is a source of bioactive compounds, especially polyphenols and iridoids. Moreover, antioxidant activity studies have shown that V. sinuatum phenolic and flavonoid composition is higher than those in other plants of the same genus. V. sinuatum bioactive compound composition could vary according to the harvesting location, growing conditions of the plants, sample preparation methods, type and concentration of the extraction solvent, and the extraction methods. The obtention of these compounds can be achieved by different extraction techniques, most commonly, maceration, heat assisted extraction, and infusion. Nevertheless, since conventional extraction techniques have several drawbacks such as long times of extraction or use of large amounts of solvents, the use of green extraction techniques is suggested, without affecting the efficiency of the extraction. Moreover, V. sinuatum bioactive compounds have several biological activities, such as antioxidant, anticancer, cardiovascular, antimicrobial, antidiabetic, and neuroprotective activities, that may be increased by encapsulation. Since the bioactive compounds extracted from V. sinuatum present good potential as functional food ingredients and in the development of drugs or cosmetics, this review gives an approach of the possible incorporation of these compounds in the food and pharmacological industries.

5-Methyltetrahydrofolate Alleviates Memory Impairment in a Rat Model of Alzheimer's Disease Induced by D-Galactose and Aluminum Chloride

The effects of 5-methyltetrahydrofolate (5-MTHF) on a rat model of Alzheimer's disease (AD) induced by D-galactose (D-gal) and aluminum chloride (AlCl₃) were investigated. Wistar rats were given an i.p. injection of 60 mg/kg D-gal and 10 mg/kg AlCl₃ to induce AD and three doses of 1 mg/kg, 5 mg/kg or 10 mg/kg 5-MTHF by oral gavage. A positive control group was treated with 1 mg/kg donepezil by gavage. Morris water maze performance showed that 5 and 10 mg/kg 5-MTHF significantly decreased escape latency and increased the number of platform crossings and time spent in the target quadrant for AD rats. The administration of 10 mg/kg 5-MTHF decreased the brain content of amyloid β-protein 1-42 (Aβ_1-42) and phosphorylated Tau protein (p-Tau) and decreased acetylcholinesterase and nitric oxide synthase activities. Superoxide dismutase activity, vascular endothelial growth factor level and glutamate concentration were increased, and malondialdehyde, endothelin-1, interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor-alpha and nitric oxide decreased. The administration of 10 mg/kg 5-MTHF also increased the expression of disintegrin and metallopeptidase domain 10 mRNA and decreased the expression of β-site amyloid precursor protein cleavage enzyme 1 mRNA. In summary, 5-MTHF alleviates memory impairment in a D-gal- and AlCl₃-exposed rat model of AD. The inhibition of Aβ_1-42 and p-Tau release, reduced oxidative stress, the regulation of amyloid precursor protein processing and the release of excitatory amino acids and cytokines may be responsible.

Research progress in traditional Chinese medicine in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the world's leading cause of dementia and has become a huge economic burden on nations and families. However, the exact etiology of AD is still unknown, and there are no efficient medicines or methods to prevent the deterioration of cognition. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has made important contributions in the battle against AD based on the characteristics of multiple targets of TCM. This study reviewed the treatment strategies and new discoveries of traditional Chinese medicine in current research, which may be beneficial to new drug researchers.

Bio-Computational Evaluation of Compounds of Bacopa Monnieri as a Potential Treatment for Schizophrenia

Schizophrenia is a horrible mental disorder characterized by distorted perceptions of reality. Investigations have not identified a single etiology for schizophrenia, and there are multiple hypotheses based on various aspects of the disease. There is no specific treatment for schizophrenia. Hence, we have tried to investigate the updated information stored in the genetic databases related to genes that could be responsible for schizophrenia and other related neuronal disorders. After implementing combined computational methodology, such as protein-protein interaction analysis led by system biology approach, in silico docking analysis was performed to explore the 3D binding pattern of Bacopa monnieri natural compounds while interacting with STXBP1. The best-identified compound was CID:5319292 based on −10.3 kcal/mol binding energy. Further, selected complexes were dynamically evaluated by MDS methods, and the output reveals that the STXBP1-CID:5281800 complex showed the lowest RMSD value, i.e., between 0.3 and 0.4 nm. Hence, identified compounds could be used to develop and treat neuronal disorders after in vivo/in vitro testing.

De novo full length transcriptome analysis and gene expression profiling to identify genes involved in phenylethanol glycosides biosynthesis in Cistanche tubulosa

Background

The dried stem of Cistanche, is a famous Chinese traditional medicine. The main active pharmacodynamic components are phenylethanol glycosides (PhGs). Cistanche tubulosa produces higher level of PhGs in its stems than that of Cistanche deserticola. However, the key genes in the PhGs biosynthesis pathway is not clear in C. tubulosa.

Results

In this study, we performed the full-length transcriptome sequencing and gene expression profiling of C. tubulosa using PacBio combined with BGISEQ-500 RNA-seq technology. Totally, 237,772 unique transcripts were obtained, ranging from 199 bp to 31,857 bp. Among the unique transcripts, 188,135 (79.12%) transcripts were annotated. Interestingly, 1080 transcripts were annotated as 22 enzymes related to PhGs biosynthesis. We measured the content of echinacoside, acteoside and total PhGs at two development stages, and found that the content of PhGs was 46.74% of dry matter in young fleshy stem (YS1) and then decreased to 31.22% at the harvest stage (HS2). To compare with YS1, 13,631 genes were up-regulated, and 15,521 genes were down regulated in HS2. Many differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified to be involved in phenylpropanoid biosynthesis pathway, phenylalanine metabolism pathway, and tyrosine metabolism pathway.

Conclusions

This is the first report of transcriptome study of C. tubulosa which provided the foundation for understanding of PhGs biosynthesis. Based on these results, we proposed a potential model for PhGs biosynthesis in C. tubulosa.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12864-022-08921-x.

Traditional Chinese Medicine as a Promising Strategy for the Treatment of Alzheimer's Disease Complicated With Osteoporosis

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and osteoporosis (OP) are progressive degenerative diseases caused by multiple factors, placing a huge burden on the world. Much evidence indicates that OP is a common complication in AD patients. In addition, there is also evidence to show that patients with OP have a higher risk of AD than those without OP. This suggests that the association between the two diseases may be due to a pathophysiological link rather than one disease causing the other. Several in vitro and in vivo studies have also proved their common pathogenesis. Based on the theory of traditional Chinese medicine, some classic and specific natural Chinese medicines are widely used to effectively treat AD and OP. Current evidence also shows that these treatments can ameliorate both brain damage and bone metabolism disorder and further alleviate AD complicated with OP. These valuable therapies might provide effective and safe alternatives to major pharmacological strategies.

The pharmacokinetic property and pharmacological activity of acteoside: A review

Acteoside (AC), a phenylpropanoid glycoside isolated from many dicotyledonous plants, has been demonstrated various pharmacological activities, including anti-oxidation, anti-inflammation, anti-cancer, neuroprotection, cardiovascular protection, anti-diabetes, bone and cartilage protection, hepatoprotection, and anti-microorganism. However, AC has a poor bioavailability, which can be potentially improved by different strategies. The health-promoting characteristics of AC can be attributed to its mediation in many signaling pathways, such as MAPK, NF-κB, PI3K/AKT, TGFβ/Smad, and AMPK/mTOR. Interestingly, docking simulation study indicates that AC can be an effective candidate to inhibit the activity of SARS-CoV2 main protease and protect against COVID-19. Many clinical trials for AC have been investigated, and it shows great potentials in drug development.

A pair of novel phenylethanol glycosides from Cistanche tubulosa (Schenk) Wight

A pair of differential epimers with opposite C-7 configurations, crenatosides A and B (1 and 2), and 10 known phenylethanoid glycosides (PhGs) (3-12) were obtained from the succulent stem of Cistanche tubulosa. The structures were elucidated based on extensive spectral data (UV, IR, 1D and 2D NMR, HR-ESIMS), which are first reported natural products with unique glycoside structures. After acid hydrolysis, the configuration of the sugar was determined by comparing it with the normative sugar by HPLC. The absolute configurations of both compounds were determined by ECD spectrum analysis. All the obtained compounds were examined for their inhibitory effect on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced nitric oxide (NO) production in mouse microglial cells (BV-2 cells), and compounds 1 and 2 showed potent inhibition on NO production with IC₅₀ values of 5.62 μM and 6.30 μM, respectively.

Pharmacological evaluation of bromelain in mouse model of Alzheimer's disease

The current study elucidates pharmacological evaluation of bromelain as a bioactive compound obtain from pineapple stem belongs to family Bromeliaceae in AlCl3 and D - galactose induced mice. In mice, co-administration of AlCl3 at dose 5 mg/kg b.w., via the oral route, and D - galactose at dose 60 mg/kg b.w., via intraperitoneal route for 90 days resulted in cognitive impairment, spatial learning, and memory deficits, as well as neurotoxicity. However, 30 consecutive days, treatments via an intraperitoneal route with bromelain low dose (Brm L) at dose 10 mg/kg b.w., bromelain high dose (Brm H) at dose 20 mg/kg b.w., donepezil (Dnpz) at dose 2 mg/kg b.w., and Brm L + Dnpz at doses 10, 2 mg/kg b.w. were considerably reversed the effect of AlCl3 and D - galactose induced AD mice. Consequences of behavioral parameters (Morris water maze, elevated plus maze and locomotor), biochemical estimation (MDA, GSH, SOD, CAT, Nitrite and AChE), and ELISA tests (mouse BACE, Aβ1 - 42, TNF-α, IL-6, and BDNF) confirmed significant (p < 0.05) neuroprotective effect of treatments in AlCl3 and D - galactose induced mice. Additionally, hematoxylin and eosin staining of the cerebral cortex and the hippocampus exposed eosinophilic lesions and hyperchromatic nuclei in AD mice, but these neurodegenerative effects were eliminated by Brm L, Brm H, Dnpz, and Brm L + Dnpz treatments. Thus, bromelain alone and in combination with donepezil prevent AlCl3 and D - galactose induced spatial learning and memory deficits, as well as cognitive impairment, by increasing cholinergic activity and synaptic plasticity, as well as reducing oxidative damage, neuroinflammation, Aβ 1-42 aggregations, and histopathological damage, according to our findings. The present study consequences indicate that bromelain alone and in combination with donepezil appears to have neuroprotective properties. Henceforward, this may be a promising treatment option for Alzheimer's disease.

Extract of Corallodiscus flabellata attenuates renal fibrosis in SAMP8 mice via the Wnt/β-catenin/RAS signaling pathway

BACKGROUND

Fibrosis is one of the most common pathological features of the aging process of the kidney, and fibrosis in aging kidneys also aggravates the process of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Corallodiscus flabellata B. L. Burtt (C. flabellata, CF) is a commonly used botanical drug in Chinese folklore. However, few studies have reported its pharmacological effects. This study aimed to explore the effect of CF ethanol extract on renal fibrosis in SAMP8 mice and identify potentially active compounds.

METHODS

Senescence-accelerated mouse-prone 8 (SAMP8) were used as animal models, and different doses of CF were given by gavage for one month. To observe the degree of renal aging in mice using β-galactosidase staining. Masson staining and the expression levels of Col-I, α-SMA, and FN were used to evaluate the renal fibrosis in mice. The protein expression levels of Nrf2 pathway and Wnt/β-catenin/RAS pathway in the kidney were measured. And β-galactosidase (β-gal) induced NRK-52E cells as an in vitro model to screen the active components of CF.

RESULTS

The CF ethanol extract significantly inhibited the activity of renal β-galactosidase and the expression levels of Col-I, α-SMA, and FN in SAMP8 mice, and improved Masson staining in SAMP8 mice. CF remarkably reduced urinary protein, creatinine, urea nitrogen and serum levels of TNF-α and IL-1β in SAMP8 mice, and significantly increased the levels of SOD and GSH-Px. Moreover, CF activated the Nrf2 pathway and blocked the Wnt/β-catenin/RAS pathway in the kidneys of mice. Besides, 3,4-dihydroxyphenylethanol (SDC-0-14, 16) and (3,4-dihydroxyphenylethanol-8-O-[4-O-trans-caffeoyl-β-D-apiofuranosyl-(1→3)-β-D-glucopyranosyl (1→6)]-β-D-glucopyranoside (SDC-1-8) were isolated from CF, which reduced the senescence of NRK-52E cells, and maybe the active ingredients of CF playing the anti-aging role.

CONCLUSIONS

Our experiments illuminated that CF ethanol extract may ameliorate renal fibrosis in SAMP8 mice via the Wnt/β-catenin/RAS pathway. And SDC-0-14,16 and SDC-1-8 may be the material basis for CF to exert anti-renal senescence-related effects.

Effects of ergosteroside combined risedronate on fracture healing and BMP-2, BMP-7 and VEGF expression in rats

Purpose

To evaluate the effect of ergosterol combined with risedronate on fracture healing.

Methods

Sixty male Sprague Dawley fracture model rats were assigned into group A (n=20), group B (n=20), and group C (n=20) at random. All rats were fed by gavage until their sacrifice as it follows: group A with ergosteroside and risedronate, group B with risedronate, and group C with saline solution. At weeks 2 and 4, 10 rats of each group were sacrificed. Healing effect and bone tissue changes in the fractures site were assessed by using hematoxylin and eosin stain histology. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was used to detect the expression of serum bone morphogenetic protein-2 (BMP-2), bone morphogenetic protein-7 (BMP-7), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction was applied to detect the expression of osteoprotegerin (OPG) mRNA, osteocalcin (OCN) mRNA and core-binding factor subunit-?1 (CBF-?1) mRNA.

Results

In terms of serum BMP-2, BMP-7, and VEGF expression at weeks 2 and 4 after gavage, group A < group B < group C (P<0.05). At week 4 after gavage, serum VEGF expression in the three groups harbored positive relationship with serum BMP-2 and BMP-7 expression (P<0.05). Regarding serum OPG, OCN and CBF-?1 mRNA expression at weeks 2 and 4 after gavage, group A <group B <group C (P<0.05). Hematoxylin and eosin staining results showed that the recovery effect of trabecular bone and callus in the cases of group A was better than the other two groups after intragastric administration.

Conclusion

Ergosteroside combined risedronate can patently ameliorate the healing effect of fracture in rats.

Ameliorative effect of myrcene in mouse model of Alzheimer's disease

Myrcene (Myr) has been reported to show neuroprotective effects in cerebral ischemia. In this research work, we investigated the Myr effect on neurobehavioural, and neuropathological alteration in mice induced by Aluminium trichloride (AlCl3) and D - galactose. The administration of AlCl3 (5 mg/kg; p. o.), and D - galactose (60 mg/kg; i. p.) for 90 days in mice resulted in spatial learning and memory deficits, cognitive decline, as well as neurotoxicity. The treatments with Myr low dose (100 mg/kg), Myr high dose (200 mg/kg), donepezil (2 mg/kg), and Myr low dose + donepezil (100 + 2 mg/kg) were administered via intraperitoneal route for 30 days significantly reversed the neurobehavioral, and neuropathological effects of AlCl3 and D - galactose in mice. The results of behavioural tests such as Morris water maze, elevated plus maze, and locomotor; biochemical analysis such as malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), nitrite, and acetylcholinesterase (AChE); and ELISA tests such as mouse β - secretase (BACE), amyloid-beta peptide1-42 (Aβ1 - 42), tumor necrosis factor - α (TNF-α), interleukin - 6 (IL-6), and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) demonstrated a significant (p < 0.05) neuroprotective effect of the Myr and donepezil co-treatments. In addition, hematoxylin and eosin staining of the cerebral cortex and hippocampus revealed eosinophilic lesions and hyperchromatic nuclei in Alzheimer's disease mice, but treatments with Myr low dose, Myr high dose, donepezil, and Myr low dose + donepezil reversed these neurodegenerative effects. Myr showed these activities by enhancing synaptic plasticity and cholinergic activity, as well as reducing oxidative damage, neuroinflammation, Aβ1-42 aggregations, and histopathological damage. Myr alone and in combination with donepezil may serve as a potential candidate for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease.

A systematic review of carbohydrate-based bioactive molecules for Alzheimer's disease

The abundance, low cost, high density of functional groups and ease of purification of carbohydrates are among the most important features that make them a prime candidate for designing therapeutics. Several carbohydrate-based molecules, of both natural and synthetic origin, are known for their wide range of therapeutic activities. The incorporation of a carbohydrate moiety not only retains the pharmacological characteristics of a molecule but also improves its activity. Several sugar conjugates have been designed and reported to inhibit acetylcholinesterase, β-amyloid and tau aggregation. This systematic review provides a brief overview of carbohydrate-based bioactive molecules having anti-Alzheimer's activity along with improved therapeutic potential. Most importantly, several reported carbohydrate-based molecules for Alzheimer's disease act on β-amyloid aggregation, tau protein, cholinesterase and oxidative stress, with enhanced pharmacokinetic and mechanistic properties. The prospect of designing carbohydrate-based molecules for Alzheimer's disease will definitely provide potential opportunities to discover novel carbohydrate-based drugs.

Phytochemical Study and In Vitro Screening Focusing on the Anti-Aging Features of Various Plants of the Greek Flora

Skin health is heavily affected by ultraviolet irradiation from the sun. In addition, senile skin is characterized by major changes in the collagen, elastin and in the hyaluronan content. Natural products (NPs) have been shown to delay cellular senescence or in vivo aging by regulating age-related signaling pathways. Moreover, NPs are a preferable source of photoprotective agents and have been proven to be useful against the undesirable skin hyperpigmentation. Greek flora harvests great plant diversity with approximately 6000 plant species, as it has a wealth of NPs. Here, we report an extensive screening among hundreds of plant species. More than 440 plant species and subspecies were selected and evaluated. The extracts were screened for their antioxidant and anti-melanogenic properties, while the most promising were further subjected to various in vitro and cell-based assays related to skin aging. In parallel, their chemical profile was analyzed with High-Performance Thin-Layer Chromatography (HPTLC) and/or Ultra-Performance Liquid Chromatography High-Resolution Mass Spectrometry (UPLC-HRMS). A variety of extracts were identified that can be of great value for the cosmetic industry, since they combine antioxidant, photoprotective, anti-melanogenic and anti-aging properties. In particular, the methanolic extracts of Sideritis scardica and Rosa damascena could be worthy of further attention, since they showed interesting chemical profiles and promising properties against specific targets involved in skin aging.

Effects of Phenylethanoid Glycosides Extracted from Herba Cistanches on the Learning and Memory of the APP/PSI Transgenic Mice with Alzheimer's Disease

Background

To investigate the effects of phenylethanoid glycosides (PhGs) extracted from Herba Cistanches on the behavioral and cognition capacity of the APP/PSI transgenic mice with Alzheimer's disease (AD).

Methods

AD mice were randomly divided into the control group, model group, donepezil group, PhG groups, and verbascose group, respectively. Three weeks later, the animals were subject to behavioral and cognition evaluation by the nesting test, Morris water maze test, and step-down test.

Results

The cognition capacity in these groups showed a significant increase compared with that in the model group. The step-down test indicated that the errors induced by the memory decrease in the PhG groups and verbascose group showed a significant decrease compared with those in the model group (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

PhGs attenuated the cognitive dysfunction features of the APP/PSI transgenic gene. Besides, PhGs were the active components for the anti-AD activity of H. Cistanches.

Premna odorata extract as a protective agent on neurotoxic effect of aluminum: neurochemical, molecular, and histopathological alterations

Premna odorata Blanco (Lamiaceae) is an ethnomedicinal plant, where some reports claimed their anti-inflammatory, cytotoxic, and antituberculosis effects, without investigating its role on the brain. Therefore, forty mature male rats were equally divided into 4 groups; the 1st was kept as control. Rats in groups 2 and 4 were orally given P. odorata extract daily at a dose of 500 mg/kg B.W., while those in groups 3 and 4 were daily administrated aluminum chloride "AlCl₃" (70 mg/kg B.W.). The treatments extended for 30 successive days. At the end of the experimental period, brain samples were collected for biochemical assay of glutathione reductase (GSH), catalase, malondialdehyde (MDA), and acetylcholinesterase activity (AChE). Besides, monoamines (norepinephrine, dopamine, serotonin), amino acids (glutamine, serine, arginine, taurine and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)), neurotransmitters, DNA damage, cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α genes were estimated. Moreover, brain samples were obtained for histopathological investigation. Aluminum toxicity resulted in a decline of GSH concentration, elevation of MDA, and AChE activity. Except for GABA which exhibited a significant decrease, there was a marked increase in the measured amino acid and monoamine neurotransmitters. Also, an increase in mRNA expressions of TNF-α and COX-2 was detected. It was noticed that Premna odorata extract reduced the oxidative stress and counteracted the augmentations in AChE caused by AlCl₃. Marked improvements in most measured neurotransmitters with downregulation of pro-inflammatory gene expression were recorded in P. odorata + AlCl₃ group. Premna odorata restores the altered histopathological feature induced by AlCl₃. In conclusion, the present findings clarify that P. odorata extract could be important in improving and treatment of neurodegenerative disorders as it was able to reduce oxidative stress, DNA damage, biochemical alterations, and histopathological changes in rats exposed to AlCl₃ toxicity.

Effect of Treadmill Exercise and Trans-Cinnamaldehyde against d-Galactose- and Aluminum Chloride-Induced Cognitive Dysfunction in Mice

Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) generally refers to impairment in cognition above that which accompanies the normal age-related cognitive decline and has attracted attention in recent years. Trans-cinnamaldehyde (TCA), which is isolated from cinnamon, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Treadmill exercise also has diverse positive effects. The purpose of this study was to investigate the combination effects of TCA and treadmill exercise on learning and memory in a cognitive impairment mouse induced by a combination of d-galactose (d-gal) and aluminum chloride (AlCl₃). We found that exercise and TCA attenuated cognitive impairment in mice with induced MCI. This effect was further increased by costimulation of exercise and TCA. To clarify the mechanisms of the positive effects of TCA and exercise, we analyzed the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor (Nrf2) and related signaling pathways. We found that TCA and exercise upregulated Nrf2, NAD(P)H dehydrogenase quinone 1 (NQO-1), heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1), and superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD-1); this suggests that TCA and exercise attenuate cognitive dysfunction by reducing oxidative stress. We also found that Nrf2-related signaling pathways, i.e., the AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK)/Nrf2 and SIRT1/PGC-1a/Nrf2-ARE pathways, exerted antioxidant effects. Together, these results suggest that costimulation with TCA and exercise may be a therapeutic candidate for mild cognitive impairment.

Neuroprotective effects of verbascoside against Alzheimer's disease via the relief of endoplasmic reticulum stress in Aβ-exposed U251 cells and APP/PS1 mice

BACKGROUND

Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress is involved in the progression of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Verbascoside (VB), an active phenylethanoid glycoside that was first isolated from Verbascum sinuatum (the wavyleaf mullein), possesses anti-inflammatory, antioxidative, and anti-apoptotic effects. The purpose of this study was to elucidate the beneficial effects of VB in amyloid β (Aβ)1-42-damaged human glioma (U251) cells and in APPswe/PSEN1dE9 transgenic (APP/PS1) mice.

METHODS

U251 cells were co-incubated with 10 μM of Aβ1-42 and treated with VB. The protective effects of VB were investigated by using 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazole-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide assay, flow cytometry, fluorescence staining, and transmission electron microscopy. APP/PS1 transgenic mice were treated for 6 weeks with VB. Learning and memory were evaluated using a Morris water maze test. Immunohistochemistry, terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated deoxyuridine triphosphate nick end labeling, thioflavin-S staining, and proteomics analysis were performed to study the potential neuroprotective mechanism. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays and western blot were performed to analyze altered protein levels of brain lysates in APP/PS1 mice and/or Aβ1-42-damaged U251 cells.

RESULTS

In Aβ1-42-damaged U251 cells, VB significantly improved cell viability, inhibited apoptosis, reduced calcium accumulation and the intracellular concentrations of reactive oxygen species, and improved the morphology of mitochondria and ER. In APP/PS1 mice, 6-week administration of VB significantly improved memory and cognition. VB inhibited apoptosis, reduced the deposition of Aβ, reduced the formation of neurofibrillary tangles formed by hyperphosphorylated tau protein, and downregulated the expression levels of 4-hydroxynonenal and mesencephalic astrocyte-derived neurotrophic factor in the brains of APP/PS1 mice. Proteomics analysis of mouse hippocampus suggested that the neuroprotective effect of VB may be related to the reduction of ER stress. This was indicated by the fact that VB inhibited the three branches of the unfolded protein response, thereby attenuating ER stress and preventing apoptosis.

CONCLUSIONS

The results confirmed that VB possesses significant neuroprotective effects, which are related to the reduction of ER stress. These findings support the status of VB as a potentially effective treatment for AD and warrant further research.

A review on the structure and pharmacological activity of phenylethanoid glycosides

Phenylethanoid glycosides (PhGs) are compounds made of phenylethyl alcohol, caffeic acid and glycosyl moieties. The first published references about phenylethanoid glycosides concerned the isolation of echinacoside from Echinaceu ungustifolia (Asteraceae) in 1950 and verbascoside from Verbascum sinuatum (Scrophulariaceae) in 1963. Over the past 60 years, many compounds with these structural characteristics have been isolated from natural sources, and most of these compounds possess significant bioactivities, including antibacterial, antitumor, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, neuro-protective, antioxidant, hepatoprotective, and immunomodulatory activities, among others. In this review, we will summarize the phenylethanoid glycosides described in recent papers and list all the compounds that have been isolated over the past few decades. We will also attempt to present and assess recent studies about the separation, extraction, determination, and pharmacological activity of the excellent natural components, phenylethanoid glycosides.

Traditional Chinese Medicine: Role in Reducing β-Amyloid, Apoptosis, Autophagy, Neuroinflammation, Oxidative Stress, and Mitochondrial Dysfunction of Alzheimer's Disease

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive age-related neurodegenerative disease characterized by memory loss and cognitive impairment. The major characteristics of AD are amyloid β plaques, apoptosis, autophagy dysfunction, neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial dysfunction. These are mostly used as the significant indicators for selecting the effects of potential drugs. It is imperative to explain AD pathogenesis and realize productive treatments. Although the currently used chemical drugs for clinical applications of AD are effective in managing the symptoms, they are inadequate to achieve anticipated preventive or therapeutic outcomes. There are new strategies for treating AD. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has accumulated thousands of years of experience in treating dementia. Nowadays, numerous modern pharmacological studies have verified the efficacy of many bioactive ingredients isolated from TCM for AD treatment. In this review, representative TCM for the treatment of AD are discussed, and among these herbal medicines, the Lamiaceae family accounts for the highest proportion. It is concluded that monomers and extracts from TCM have potential therapeutic effect for AD treatment.

Acteoside ameliorates experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis through inhibiting peroxynitrite-mediated mitophagy activation

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an inflammatory disease in central nervous system (CNS) with limited therapeutic drugs. In the present study, we explored the anti-inflammatory/neuroprotective properties of Acteoside (AC), an active compound from medicinal herb Radix Rehmanniae (RR), and neuroprotective effects of AC on MS pathology by using an experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) model. We tested the hypothesis that AC could alleviate EAE pathogenesis through inhibiting inflammation and ONOO^--mediated mitophagy activation in vivo and in vitro. The results showed that AC treatment effectively ameliorated neurological deficit score and postponed disease onset in the EAE mice. AC treatment inhibited inflammation/demyelination, alleviated peripheral activation and CNS infiltration of encephalitogenic CD4⁺ T cells and CD11b⁺ activated microglia/macrophages in the spinal cord of EAE mice. Meanwhile, AC treatment reduced ONOO^- production, down-regulated the expression of iNOS and NADPH oxidases, and inhibited neuronal apoptotic cell death and mitochondrial damage in the spinal cords of the EAE mice. Furthermore, AC treatment decreased the ratio of LC3-II to LC3-I in mitochondrial fraction, and inhibited the translocation of Drp1 to the mitochondria. In vitro studies further proved that AC possessed strong ONOO^- scavenging capability and protected the neuronal cells from nitrative cytotoxicity via suppressing ONOO^--mediated excessive mitophagy. Taken together, Acteoside could be a potential therapeutic agent for multiple sclerosis treatment. The suppression of ONOO^--induced excessive mitophagy activation could be one of the critical mechanisms contributing to its anti-inflammatory and anti-demyelinating properties.

Preclinical Evidence and Possible Mechanisms of Extracts or Compounds from Cistanches for Alzheimer's Disease

Currently, disease-modified strategies to prevent, halt or reverse the progress of Alzheimer's disease (AD) are still lacking. Previous studies indicated extracts or compounds from Cistanches (ECC) exert a potential neuroprotective effect against AD. Thus, we conducted a preclinical systematic review to assess preclinical evidence and possible mechanisms of ECC in experimental AD. A systematical searching strategy was carried out across seven databases from their inceptions to July 2018. Twenty studies with 1696 rats or mice were involved. Neurobehavioral function indices as primary outcome measures were established by the Morris water maze test (n = 11), step-down test (n = 10), electrical Y-maze test (n = 4), step-through test (n = 3), open field test (n = 2) and passage water maze test (n = 1). Compared with controls, the results of the meta-analysis showed ECC exerted a significant effect in decreasing the escape latency, error times and wrong reaction latency in both the training test and the retention test, and in increasing the exact time and the percentage of time in the platform-quadrant and the number of platform crossings (all P<0.01). In conclusion, ECC exert potential neuroprotective effects in experimental AD, mainly through mechanisms involving antioxidant stress and antiapoptosic effects, inhibiting Aβ deposition and tau protein hyperphosphorylation and promoting synapse protection. Thus, ECC could be a candidate for AD treatment and further clinical trials.

Antioxidant activity of phenylethanoid glycosides on glutamate-induced neurotoxicity

Exposure of PC12 cells to 10 mM glutamate caused significant viability loss, cell apoptosis, decreased activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) as well as increased levels of malondialdehyde (MDA). In parallel, glutamate significantly increased the intracellular levels of ROS and intracellular calcium. However, pretreatment of the cells with acteoside and isoacteoside significantly suppressed glutamate-induced cellular events. Moreover, acteoside and isoacteoside reduced the glutamate-induced increase of caspase-3 activity and also ameliorated the glutamate-induced Bcl-2/Bax ratio reduction in PC12 cells. Furthermore, acteoside and isoacteoside significantly inhibited glutamate-induced DNA damage. In the mouse model, acteoside significantly attenuated cognitive deficits in the Y maze test and attenuated neuronal damage of the hippocampal CA1 regions induced by glutamate. These data indicated that acteoside and isoacteoside play neuroprotective effects through anti-oxidative stress, anti-apoptosis, and maintenance of steady intracellular calcium.

Large-Scale Target Identification of Herbal Medicine Using a Reverse Docking Approach

Herbal medicine has been used to countermine various diseases for centuries. However, most of the therapeutic targets underlying herbal therapy remain unclear, which largely slow down the novel drug discovery process from natural products. In this study, we developed a novel computational pipeline for assisting de novo identification of protein targets for herbal ingredients. The pipeline involves pharmacophore comparison and reverse ligand-protein docking simulation in a high throughput manner. We evaluated the pipeline using three traditional Chinese medicine ingredients such as acteoside, quercetin, and epigallocatechin gallate as examples. A majority of current known targets of these ingredients were successfully identified by the pipeline. Structural comparative analyses confirmed that the predicted ligand-target interactions used the same binding pockets and binding modes as those of known ligand-target interactions. Furthermore, we illustrated the mechanism of actions of the ingredients by constructing the pharmacological networks on the basis of the predicted target profiles. In summary, we proposed an efficient and economic option for large-scale target exploration in the herb study. This pipeline will be particularly valuable in aiding precise drug discovery and drug repurposing from natural products.

Acteoside inhibits autophagic apoptosis of retinal ganglion cells to rescue glaucoma-induced optic atrophy

BACKGROUND

Glaucoma is the world's second biggest cause of blindness, and patients progressively lose their eyesight. The current clinical treatment for glaucoma involves controlling intraocular pressure with drugs or surgery; however, some patients still progressively lose their eyesight. This treatment is also similar to the treatment of traumatic optic neuropathy. Thus, saving retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) from apoptosis is essential.

METHODS

The role of Acteoside on autophagy modulation in the 661 W cell line.

RESULTS

In this study, we first find that Acteoside inhibits autophagy, Rapamycin alleviates this inhibition and the PI3K inhibitor, 3-MA or LY294002, synergistically promotes it. In a mechanistic study, we find that Optineurin (OPTN) mediates Acteoside regulation of autophagy. OPTN overexpression or knockdown activates or inhibits autophagy, respectively. OPTN is inhibited by autophagy inhibitors, such as Acteoside and 3-MA and is promoted by the autophagy activator, Rapamycin. Meanwhile, PI3K and AKT are elevated by Acteoside and 3-MA and inhibited by Rapamycin. Finally, we find that Acteoside inhibits apoptosis in parallel to autophagy and that this inhibition is also mediated by OPTN.

CONCLUSION

In summary, we conclude that Acteoside inhibits autophagy-induced apoptosis in RGCs through the OPTN and PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway, and glaucoma patients may benefit from Acteoside treatment alone or in combination with other autophagy inhibitors.

Acanthus ebracteatus leaf extract provides neuronal cell protection against oxidative stress injury induced by glutamate

BACKGROUND

Acanthus ebracteatus (AE), an herb native to Asia, has been recognized in traditional folk medicine not only for its antioxidant properties and various pharmacological activities but also as an ingredient of longevity formulas. However, its anti-neurodegenerative potential is not yet clearly known. This work aimed to evaluate the protective effect of AE leaf extract against glutamate-induced oxidative damage in mouse hippocampal HT22 cells, a neurodegenerative model system due to a reduction in glutathione levels and an increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS).

METHODS

Cell viability, apoptosis, and ROS assays were performed to assess the protective effect of AE leaf extract against glutamate-induced oxidative toxicity in HT22 cells. The antioxidant capacity of AE was evaluated using in vitro radical scavenging assays. The subcellular localization of apoptosis-inducing factor (AIF) and the mRNA and protein levels of genes associated with the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) antioxidant system were determined to elucidate the mechanisms underlying the neuroprotective effect of AE leaf extract.

RESULTS

We demonstrated that AE leaf extract is capable of attenuating the intracellular ROS generation and HT22 cell death induced by glutamate in a concentration-dependent manner. Co-treatment of glutamate with the extract significantly reduced apoptotic cell death via inhibition of AIF nuclear translocation. The increases in Nrf2 levels in the nucleus and gene expression levels of antioxidant-related downstream genes under Nrf2 control were found to be significant in cells treated with the extract.

CONCLUSIONS

The results suggested that AE leaf extract possesses neuroprotective activity against glutamate-induced oxidative injury and may have therapeutic potential for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases associated with oxidative stress.

Chemical characterization and cerebroprotective effect of methanolic root extract of Colebrookea oppositifolia in rats

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Colebrookea oppositifolia Smith is one of the extensively used plants to treat neurological conditions such as epilepsy by the various ethnic communities in sub-Himalayan regions of India such as Bhoxa, Tharu and nomadic Gujjars.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study was conducted to evaluate the cerebroprotective effect of C. oppositifolia methanolic root (MeCO) extract in Wistar rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The MeCO was characterized for total phenolic content and later subjected for detailed liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis. Further, it was evaluated for in vitro antioxidant activity using 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl, ferric reducing antioxidant power and oxygen radical absorbance capacity assays. In addition, the MeCO was investigated on generation of ROS, nitrite, and TNF-α in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 cell lines. Finally, the cerebroprotective effect of MeCO was examined against global ischemia and reperfusion (I/R)-induced brain injury in Wistar rats. Male Wistar rats were allocated in to five groups (G-I to G-V, n = 10). G-I and G-II served as sham control and I/R control, respectively, and received only vehicle (0.5% w/v carboxy methyl cellulose, 10 ml/kg, p.o.). G-III served as reference standard and received quercetin (20 mg/kg, p.o.). G-IV and G-V animals received 200 and 400 mg/kg oral doses of MeCO, respectively. All the treatments were given for a period of seven days and the parameters such as neurobehavioral (neurological, and cognitive), and motor functions, biochemical (enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants, TNF-α, IL-6, IL-10, ICAM-I), morphological (cerebral edema and infarct area) and histopathological evaluations were performed.

RESULTS

The MeCO showed a total phenolic content of 137.28 mg gallic acid equivalents/g, and LC-MS/MS analysis of MeCO showed presence of acteoside, gossypin, quercetin and ferulic acid as major ingredients (6680.3, 1.55, 3.52 and 431.1 ng/mg). In in vitro antioxidant assays, the MeCO exhibited potent activity with IC₅₀ of 49.10 µg/ml in DPPH assay; FRAP and ORAC values of 1180.5 and 2983.5 respectively. Furthermore, the MeCO significantly inhibited generation of ROS, nitrite and TNF-α in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 cell lines. Sixty min of global ischemia with 24 h reperfusion produced substantial alterations in neurobehavioral functions in the I/R control group compared to sham control. In addition, a significant reduction in catalase and superoxide dismutase activities was observed. Moreover, lipid peroxidation increased and reduced glutathione levels decreased significantly. Furthermore, the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6, and ICAM-I) increased significantly and those of anti-inflammatory (IL-10) decreased. I/R insult increased the brain volume and aggravated cerebral infarct formation. Histopathological examination of the rat brain revealed vascular congestion, cerebral edema, leukocyte infiltration, and brain tissue necrosis. Interestingly, seven days pretreatment with MeCO (200 and 400 mg/kg) alleviated all the I/R-induced perturbances (neurobehavioral, and motor functions, biochemical, morphological and histopathological) compared with the I/R control.

CONCLUSIONS

The MeCO exhibit potent cerebroprotective activity through its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanisms, and hence may be useful in the management of ischemic stroke and associated complications.

Suppression of MIF-induced neuronal apoptosis may underlie the therapeutic effects of effective components of Fufang Danshen in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease

Fufang Danshen (FFDS or Compound Danshen) consists of three Chinese herbs Danshen (Salviae miltiorrhizae radix et rhizome), Sanqi (Notoginseng radix et rhizome) and Tianranbingpian (Borneolum, or D-borneol), which has been show to significantly improve the function of the nervous system and brain metabolism. In this study we explored the possible mechanisms underlying the therapeutic effects of the combination of the effective components of FFDS (Tan IIA, NG-R1 and Borneol) in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease (AD) based on network pharmacology. We firstly constructed AD-related FFDS component protein interaction networks, and revealed that macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) might regulate neuronal apoptosis through Bad in the progression of AD. Then we investigated the apoptosis-inducing effects of MIF and the impact of the effective components of FFDS in human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells. We observed the characteristics of a "Pendular state" of MIF, where MIF (8 ng/mL) increased the ratio of p-Bad/Bad by activating Akt and the IKKα/β signaling pathway to assure cell survival, whereas MIF (50 ng/mL) up-regulated the expression of Bad to trigger apoptosis of SH-SY5Y cells. MIF displayed neurotoxicity similar to Aβ_1-42, which was associated with the MIF-induced increased expression of Bad. Application of the FFDS composite solution significantly decreased the expression levels of Bad, suppressed MIF-induced apoptosis in SH-SY5Y cells. In a D-galactose- and AlCl₃-induced AD mouse model, administration of the FFDS composite solution significantly improved the learning and memory, as well as neuronal morphology, and decreased the serum levels of INF-γ. Therefore, the FFDS composite solution exerts neuroprotective effects through down-regulating the level of Bad stimulated by MIF.

Determination of the Phenolic Profile and Antioxidant Properties of Salvia viridis L. Shoots: A Comparison of Aqueous and Hydroethanolic Extracts

Salvia viridis L. is an annual herb used in Mediterranean medicine. The purpose of this study was to determine the polyphenol profile of aqueous (decoction and infusion) and hydroethanolic extracts of aerial parts of field-grown S.viridis and to evaluate their antioxidant activity. The polyphenol profiling was performed via UPLC-DAD/ESI-MS. Additionally, the total polyphenol content in extracts tested were determined by UV-Vis spectrophotometry using the Folin-Ciocalteu assay. The antioxidant effect was evaluated by the FRAP, DPPH, ABTS, O₂^•− scavenging and TBARS methods. The hydroethanolic extract gave the highest content of total phenolic compounds, followed by the infusion. The UPLC-DAD/ESI-MS analysis of extracts showed a total of 19 phenolic compounds identified as flavonoids (four compounds), phenylethanoids (eight compounds) and phenolic acids (seven compounds). Rosmarinic acid was the predominant phenolic acid, verbascoside was the predominant phenylethanoid, while apigenin glucuronide or methylluteolin glucuronide, depending on the sample, were the predominant flavonoids in the analyzed extracts. The presence of a high polyphenol level indicated a high antioxidant activity of both the infusion and the hydroalcoholic extract. These results indicate that S. viridis is a rich resource of phenolic compounds and can be used in dietary applications with the potential to reduce oxidative stress.

Cistanches Herba: An overview of its chemistry, pharmacology, and pharmacokinetics property

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Cistanches Herba is an Orobanchaceae parasitic plant. As a commonly used Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), its traditional functions include treating kidney deficiency, impotence, female infertility and senile constipation. Chemical analysis of Cistanches Herba revealed that phenylethanoid glycosides, iridoids, lignans, oligosaccharides, and polysaccharides were the main constituents. Pharmacological studies demonstrated that Cistanches Herba exhibited neuroprotective, immunomodulatory, hormonal balancing, anti-fatigue, anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotection, anti-oxidative, anti-bacterial, anti-viral, and anti-tumor effects, etc. The aim of this review is to provide updated, comprehensive and categorized information on the phytochemistry, pharmacological research and pharmacokinetics studies of the major constituents of Cistanches Herba.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The literature search was conducted by systematic searching multiple electronic databases including SciFinder, ISI Web of Science, PubMed, Google Scholar and CNKI. Information was also collected from journals, local magazines, books, monographs.

RESULTS

To date, more than 100 compounds have been isolated from this genus, include phenylethanoid glycosides, carbohydrates, lignans, iridoids, etc. The crude extracts and isolated compounds have exhibited a wide range of in vitro and in vivo pharmacologic effects, such as neuroprotective, immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotection, anti-oxidative, anti-bacterial, and anti-tumor effects. The phenylethanoid glycosides, echinacoside and acteoside have attracted the most attention for their significantly neuropharmacology effects. Pharmacokinetic studies of echinacoside and acteoside also have also been summarized.

CONCLUSION

Phenylethanoid glycosides have demonstrated wide pharmacological actions and have great clinical value if challenges such as poor bioavailability, fast and extensive metabolism are addressed. Apart from phenylethanoid glycosides, other constituents of Cistanches Herba, their pharmacological activities and underlying mechanisms are also need to be studied further.

Human Umbilical Cord Mesenchymal Stem Cells Protect Against SCA3 by Modulating the Level of 70 kD Heat Shock Protein

Spinocerebellar ataxia 3 (SCA3), which is a progressive neurodegenerative disease, is currently incurable. Emerging studies have reported that human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (HUC-MSCs) transplantation could be a promising therapeutic strategy for cerebellar ataxias. However, few studies have evaluated the effects of HUC-MSCs on SCA3 transgenic mouse. Thus, we investigated the effects of HUC-MSCs on SCA3 mice and the underlying mechanisms in this study. SCA3 transgenic mice received systematic administration of 2 × 106 HUC-MSCs once per week for 12 continuous weeks. Motor coordination was measured blindly by open field tests and footprint tests. Immunohistochemistry and Nissl staining were applied to detect neuropathological alternations. Neurotrophic factors in the cerebellum were assessed by ELISA. We used western blotting to detect the alternations of heat shock protein 70 (HSP70), IGF-1, mutant ataxin-3, and apoptosis-associated proteins. Tunel staining was also used to detect apoptosis of affected cells. The distribution and differentiation of HUC-MSCs were determined by immunofluorescence. Our results exhibited that HUC-MSCs transplantation significantly alleviated motor impairments, corresponding to a reduction of cerebellar atrophy, preservation of neurons, decreased expression of mutant ataxin-3, and increased expression of HSP70. Implanted HUC-MSCs were mainly distributed in the cerebellum and pons with no obvious differentiation, and the expressions of IGF-1, VEGF, and NGF in the cerebellum were significantly elevated. Furthermore, with the use of HSP70 analogy quercetin injection, it demonstrated that HSP70 is involved in mutant ataxin-3 reduction. These results showed that HUC-MSCs implantation is a potential treatment for SCA3, likely through upregulating the IGF-1/HSP70 pathway and subsequently inhibiting mutant ataxin-3 toxicity.

Cytogenetic tests reveal no toxicity in lymphocytes of rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus, 2n=44) feed in presence of verbascoside and/or lycopene

Phenylpropanoid glycosides (PPG), like other phenolic compounds, are a powerful antioxidants and the Verbascoside (VB) is one of the most active of them. A previous study, by using in vitro exposure of blood human lymphocytes to Verbascoside, reported a significant increasings of chromosome fragility compared to control. In the present study, four homogeneous groups of rabbits were used to test in vivo the VB and/or Lycopene (LP) by feeding the animals without VB and LP (control), in presence of VB or/and LP for 80 days. Lymphocyte cell cultures were performed in three different times: 0, 40 and 80 days of the experiment and the cytogenetic tests that we used [CA-test (Chromosome Abnormalities in terms of chromosome and chromatid breaks) and Sister Chromatid Exchange (SCE-test)] have revealed no mutagenic effects on chromosomes. Indeed, mean values/cell of CA and SCE decreased during the experiment with some difference among and within groups, with significant decreasing value only for some group. The study shows clear evidence that diets rich in Verbascoside (and/or Lycopene) do not originate any mutagenic activity, resulting no cytotoxic for the animals and, suggesting a possible their use in both animal and human diets.

Herba Cistanches: Anti-aging

The Cistanche species ("Rou Cong Rong" in Chinese) is an endangered wild species growing in arid or semi-arid areas. The dried fleshy stem of Cistanches has been used as a tonic in China for many years. Modern pharmacological studies have since demonstrated that Herba Cistanches possesses broad medicinal functions, especially for use in anti-senescence, anti-oxidation, neuroprotection, anti-inflammation, hepatoprotection, immunomodulation, anti-neoplastic, anti-osteoporosis and the promotion of bone formation. This review summarizes the up-to-date and comprehensive information on Herba Cistanches covering the aspects of the botany, traditional uses, phytochemistry and pharmacology, to lay ground for fully elucidating the potential mechanisms of Herba Cistanches' anti-aging effect and promote its clinical application as an anti-aging herbal medicine.