Astragaloside IV: A promising natural neuroprotective agent for neurological disorders

Astragaloside IV Improves Muscle Atrophy by Modulating the Activity of UPS and ALP via Suppressing Oxidative Stress and Inflammation in Denervated Mice

Peripheral nerve injury is common clinically and can lead to neuronal degeneration and atrophy and fibrosis of the target muscle. The molecular mechanisms of muscle atrophy induced by denervation are complex and not fully understood. Inflammation and oxidative stress play an important triggering role in denervated muscle atrophy. Astragaloside IV (ASIV), a monomeric compound purified from astragalus membranaceus, has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of ASIV on denervated muscle atrophy and its molecular mechanism, so as to provide a new potential therapeutic target for the prevention and treatment of denervated muscle atrophy. In this study, an ICR mouse model of muscle atrophy was generated through sciatic nerve dissection. We found that ASIV significantly inhibited the reduction of tibialis anterior muscle mass and muscle fiber cross-sectional area in denervated mice, reducing ROS and oxidative stress-related protein levels. Furthermore, ASIV inhibits the increase in inflammation-associated proteins and infiltration of inflammatory cells, protecting the denervated microvessels in skeletal muscle. We also found that ASIV reduced the expression levels of MAFbx, MuRF1 and FoxO3a, while decreasing the expression levels of autophagy-related proteins, it inhibited the activation of ubiquitin-proteasome and autophagy-lysosome hydrolysis systems and the slow-to-fast myofiber shift. Our results show that ASIV inhibits oxidative stress and inflammatory responses in skeletal muscle due to denervation, inhibits mitophagy and proteolysis, improves microvascular circulation and reverses the transition of muscle fiber types; Therefore, the process of skeletal muscle atrophy caused by denervation can be effectively delayed.

Carbohydrate-active enzyme-catalyzed stereoselective glycosylation of complex natural product glycosides

Natural products and their derivatives are precious resources with extensive applications in various industrial fields. Enzymatic glycosylation is an efficient approach for chemical structure diversification and biological activity alternation of natural products. Herein, we reported a stereoselective glycosylation of complex natural product glycosides catalyzed by two carbohydrate-active enzymes (CAZys). ASP OleD, a mutant of glycosyltransferase OleD from Streptomyces antibioticus, catalyzed an explicit β-1,x-linkage glycosylation of the OH group of the glycosyl moiety of the representative plant-derived complex natural product glycosides, protodioscin (1) and epimedin C (2), producing two complex glycoside derivatives. The glycoside hydrolase Δ27ThCGT, a truncated cyclodextrin glucanotransferase from Thermoanaerobacter sp., exhibited a definite α-1,x-linkage glycosylation of the OH group of the glycosyl moiety of the glycosides 1, 2, and astragaloside IV (3), generating four complex glycoside derivatives. The chemical structures and absolute configurations of these enzymatic glycosylation products were determined by analysis of their HRMS and NMR data. The present study expands the enzymatic glycosylation diversification of complex glycosides catalyzed by the CAZys.

Unlocking the potential of Radix Astragali and its active ingredients in gastric ulcer therapy

We studied the protective effects of Radix Astragali (RA) on gastric ulcer (GU). A literature search was conducted using databases from Web of Science, PubMed, Springer, ScienceDirect, Science Direct Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), and Wanfang. The inclusion criteria for this study were limited to reports on the effects of RA, AS-IV, cycloastragenol, astragalus polysaccharide (APS), and astragalosides (AST) in the treatment of gastric ulcers. Any studies involving gastric lesions that were precancerous or cancerous were eliminated. The search period was from database inception through June 2024. The results suggested RA hold promiseas potential novel therapeutics for the therapy of GU.

MRI evaluation of neuroprotective effects of Astragaloside Ⅳ on rotenone-induced late-stage Parkinson's disease mice

Astragaloside Ⅳ (AS-Ⅳ) improved the motor behavior of Parkinson's disease (PD) mouse but the alteration of imaging in the PD mice brain was unclear. PD models were established by unilateral injection of rotenone (ROT) into the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNc) of mice. AS-Ⅳ (20 mg/kg) was intraperitoneally injected once daily for 14 days. Pole and rotarod tests were performed to evaluate behavioral alterations at 32 weeks. Flow cytometry, electrophysiological recordings techniques, and MRI were performed to assess the neuroprotective effects of AS-Ⅳ. AS-Ⅳ ameliorated motor deficits and the incidence of dystonia in animal models of PD. AS-Ⅳ administration inhibited CD4+ T cell activation and increased dopaminergic neurons burst firing. Imaging studies have demonstrated that AS-Ⅳ alters the brain tissue microstructure in the substantia nigra (SN). After administering AS-Ⅳ, bilateral SN fractional anisotropy (FA) values increased, whereas mean diffusivity (MD) values decreased in mice, according to the diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) analysis. In addition, AS-Ⅳ treatment significantly reduced the T2 values of the T2-mapping. In summary, AS-Ⅳ improved motor impairments and efficiently performed neuroprotective functions in the ROT-induced mouse model.

Allium Macrostemon Bge. Attenuates the Cognitive Decline of Aging Mice by Enhancing BDNF/TrkB Pathway

Allium macrostemon Bge. (AM) is a widely utilized culinary spice recognized for its numerous health-promoting properties. Aging-related cognitive impairment (ARCI) represents a significant global health concern during the aging process. However, the potential of AM to attenuate ARCI has not been investigated. This work aims to reveal the effects and potential mechanisms of the water extraction of AM (WEAM) in alleviating ARCI, with a particular emphasis on the BDNF/TrkB signaling pathway. The findings showed a significant enhancement in memory function and a reduction in hippocampal neuronal damage in aging mice following treatment with WEAM, manifested by an increased spontaneous alternation rate in the Y-maze, prolonged step-through latency, and decreased number of errors in the PAT test, a shortened escape latency and increased platform swimming time and platform crossing times in the MWM test. Additionally, WEAM reduced oxidative stress, elevated the expression of proteins related to synaptic plasticity (SYN and PSD95), and activated the BDNF/TrkB signaling pathway in D-galactose-induced aging mice. To elucidate the mechanism by which WEAM alleviates ARCI, both a TrkB activator (7,8-DHF) and an inhibitor (ANA-12) were employed. The results demonstrated that the effects of WEAM on synaptic plasticity were potentiated by 7,8-DHF and diminished by ANA-12. Finally, 11 chemical compositions of WEAM were analyzed and quantified using HPLC-MS/MS, including macrostemonoside, sarsasapogenin, diosgenin, timosaponin AIII, N-p-trans-coumaroyltyramine, guanosine, adenosine, phenylalanine, adenine, arginine, and valine. These results suggest that AM may serve as a promising culinary spice for mitigating ARCI by promoting the BDNF/TrkB signaling pathway, thereby enhancing synaptic plasticity.

Astragaloside IV Relieves Central Sensitization by Regulating Astrocytic ROS/NF-κB Nuclear Translocation Signaling in Chronic Migraine Male Rats

Chronic migraine (CM) is a disabling neurological disease. Astragaloside IV (AS-IV), a natural product derived from Astragalus membranaceus , shows great potential in treating chronic pain by relieving inflammation and oxidative stress. This study aimed to investigate the effects and mechanisms of action of AS-IV on CM. An inflammatory soup comprising histamine, bradykinin, serotonin, and prostaglandin E2 was used to establish a CM rat model, while lipopolysaccharide was applied to induce an inflammatory response in primary astrocytes. Pain threshold measurements were used to evaluate nociceptive hypersensitivity, while qPCR and Western blotting were applied to detect inflammatory indicators and synaptic protein expression, and Golgi-Cox staining was applied to observe dendritic spine density, while transmission electron microscopy was used to observe synaptic ultrastructure. Mitochondrial function and oxidative stress were assessed using JC-1 staining, Mitotracker staining, reactive oxygen species (ROS) quantification, and glutathione content. AS-IV pretreatment alleviated central sensitization and ameliorated astrocyte activation and neuroinflammation. AS-IV pretreatment alleviated mitochondrial dysfunction in vitro, and reduced the nuclear translocation of NF-κB and the production of IL-1β, which were reversed by ROS scavengers in vitro or mitochondrial respiratory chain disruptors in vivo. Our study indicates that AS-IV can inhibit neuroinflammation by alleviating astrocyte mitochondrial dysfunction to mitigate central sensitization in CM, thereby providing an experimental basis for AS-IV and A. membranaceus in CM prevention and treatment.

Astragaloside IV ameliorates autism-like behaviors in BTBR mice by modulating Camk2n2-dependent OXPHOS and neurotransmission in the mPFC

INTRODUCTION

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) represents a multifaceted set of neurodevelopmental conditions marked by social deficits and repetitive behaviors. Astragaloside IV (ASIV), a natural compound derived from the traditional Chinese herb Astragali Radix, exhibits robust neuroprotective effects. However, whether ASIV can ameliorate behavioral deficits in ASD remains unknown.

OBJECTIVES

This work aimed to determine the efficacy and molecular mechanisms of ASIV in ASD.

METHODS

The autistic BTBR T + tf/J (BTBR) mice were used in this study. Behavioral tests were performed to assess the ASD-like phenotypes. The neurotransmitter levels and synaptic transmission were evaluated by high-performance liquid chromatography and whole-cell patch clamp recordings, respectively. Molecular biological techniques, immunostaining, and RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq) were combined to uncover the underlying molecular mechanisms.

RESULTS

Our study showed that both social impairment and repetitive behaviors were significantly improved after ASIV treatment in a dose-dependent manner in BTBR mice. The ASIV treatment normalized the neurotransmitter levels (GABA and glutamate) and their corresponding vesicular transporters (vGAT, vGLUT1) in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC). Furthermore, the excitation-inhibition imbalance in layer V of mPFC was reversed after ASIV administration. Mechanistically, bulk RNA-seq and PPI network analysis identified Camk2n2 as the crucial bridging gene regulating oxidative phosphorylation and neurotransmission. Camk2n2 overexpression in the mPFC abolished the beneficial effects of ASIV on autistic symptoms in BTBR mice via the Camk2/CREB pathway.

CONCLUSION

The evidence demonstrates that ASIV may become a promising treatment option for ASD and implies that targeting the Camk2n2/Camk2/CREB axis is warranted to investigate these ASD individuals further.

Astragaloside IV alleviates GDM via regulating gut microbiota and gut microbiota metabolomic

Background

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), a severe pregnancy disorder, is a temporary form of diabetes that occurs during gestation. Astragaloside IV (AS IV), a natural and effective composition of Astragalus membranaceus, shows pharmacological effects against diabetes. On the contrary, the effects of AS IV on GDM development are still not clear. This study aims to investigate the role of AS IV in alleviating GDM in rats and determine whether AS IV exerts its anti-GDM properties through the regulation of gut microbiota and metabolite modulation.

Methods

There were six pregnant SD rats in each of the four groups. First, the GDM model was induced by the streptozotocin (STZ, 45 mg/kg) injection on gestational days (GDs) 1-4, and AS IV intervention (10 mg/kg/d) was administered from 6 days before pregnancy until delivery. The measurements of relevant indicators pertaining to GDM symptoms and reproductive outcomes, along with the 16S rRNA sequencing data and LC-MS-based metabolomic profiles, were assessed across all groups.

Results

After the 25-day intervention, the GDM model + AS IV group showed significantly decreased fasting blood glucose levels (p = 0.0003), mean insulin levels (p = 0.0001), and insulin resistance index (p = 0.0001). AS IV treatment also decreased the malformation rate (p = 0.0373) and increased the average fetal weight (p = 0.0020) of GDM rats. Compared to the control rats, GDM rats showed a significantly higher abundance of Blautia and Anaerobiospirillum. However, the dramatically elevated abundance of these microorganisms was markedly decreased by AS IV treatment. In contrast, compared to GDM rats without treatment, GDM rats treated with AS IV showed a significantly higher abundance of bacteria (p < 0.05), such as Methanobrevibacter, Dubosiella, and Romboutsia, which are beneficial to the rats. Additionally, we observed dramatically elevated production of metabolites, such as N-acetyl-l-leucine and lithocholic acid, after AS IV treatment through metabolomics analysis (p < 0.05). Furthermore, significant associations between most genera of gut bacteria and the altered levels of the metabolites connected to gut microbiota were also discovered.

Conclusion

Our study demonstrated that AS IV could be an effective nutritional intervention strategy for targeting gut microbiota and metabolome profiles in GDM and provided experimental evidence supporting the use of AS IV to treat GDM.

Astragaloside IV plays a neuroprotective role by promoting PPARγ in cerebral ischemia-reperfusion rats

BACKGROUND

Cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury (CIRI) usually occurs during the treatment phase of ischemic disease, which is closely related to high morbidity and mortality. Promoting neurogenesis and synaptic plasticity are effective neural recovery strategies for CIRI. Astragaloside IV (AS-IV) has been shown to play a neuroprotective role in some neurological diseases. In the current study, we evaluated the effect and possible mechanism of AS-IV in CIRI rats.

METHODS

The middle cerebral artery occlusion reperfusion (MCAO/R) model was established in rats to simulate the occurrence of human CIRI. First, we determined the cerebral injury on the 1st, 3rd, 5th and 7th day after cerebral ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) surgery by neurological deficit detection, TTC staining, TUNEL staining and Western blot analysis. Furthermore, rats were pre administered with AS-IV and then subjected to cerebral I/R surgery. Brains were collected on the 3rd day to evaluate the neuroprotective effect of AS-IV.

RESULTS

Our results showed that on the 3rd day after I/R, the neurological impairment score and infarct volume were highest, the levels of apoptosis and expression of Caspase3 and Bax reached the peak. AS-IV treatment apparently attenuated neurological dysfunction, reduced infarct volume and pathological damage, promoted the neurogenesis, and alleviated the pathological damage caused by cerebral I/R involved in thickening and blurring of synaptic membranes, reduction of microtubules and synaptic vesicles, and loss of synaptic cleft. Our study also showed that AS-IV promoted the transcription and expression of the peroxisome proliferators-activated receptors γ (PPARγ) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), increased the expression of phosphorylation of tyrosine kinase receptor B (TrkB) and downstream PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway proteins. Notably, when GW9662, an inhibitor of PPARγ was administered with AS-IV, the neuroprotective effect of AS-IV was reduced.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggested that AS-IV has neuroprotective function in CIRI rats, and its molecular mechanism may depend on the phosphatidylinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (PKB)/Akt signalling pathway activated by PPARγ. AS-IV could be an effective therapeutic drug candidate for CIRI treatment.

Investigation of Anti-Apoptotic Effects and Mechanisms of Astragaloside IV in a Rat Model of Cerebral Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury

BACKGROUND

Ischemic stroke is a prevalent and life-threatening cerebrovascular disease that is challenging to treat and associated with a poor prognosis. Astragaloside IV (AS-IV), a primary bioactive component of Astragali radix, has demonstrated neuroprotective benefits in previous studies. This study aimed to explore the mechanisms through which AS-IV may treat cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury (CIRI).

METHODS

Network pharmacology was employed to identify key targets and pathways of AS-IV in CIRI therapy, combined with molecular docking to predict binding affinity. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly assigned to sham, MCAO/R, AS-IV, SP600125 (JNK inhibitor), AS-IV + SP600125, and 3-n-Butylphthalide (NBP) groups. Neurobehavioral deficits were assessed, and brain tissue damage was visualized through 2,3,5-triphenyltetrazolium chloride, H&E, and TUNEL staining. Immunohistochemistry was employed to detect CytC- and caspase-3-positive cells, while Western blotting, qPCR, and ELISAs were used to analyze apoptosis-related markers.

RESULTS

A total of 48 key targets of AS-IV predicted to be involved in the treatment of CIRI were identified, enriched in 136 pathways. AS-IV was effectively bound to the top five targets from 48 targets, and those associated with the c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK)/Bid pathway, with binding energy values below -5.0 kJ·mol-1. JNK inhibition reduced infarcted brain areas, improved neurological function, reduced pathological brain tissue damage, and inhibited apoptosis, with AS-IV achieving similar neuroprotective effects. Both AS-IV and SP600125 reduced p-JNK, Bid, CytC, Apaf-1, caspase-3, and cleaved caspase-3 levels in rats while decreasing CytC, caspase-3, and caspase-9 levels in serum.

CONCLUSION

AS-IV may suppress apoptosis partly through the modulation of JNK/Bid signaling, exerting neuroprotective effects. These findings support the potential development of AS-IV-based therapies for stroke treatment.

Separation of astragaloside IV from Astragalus membranaceus based on high-speed countercurrent chromatography in continuous injection mode

INTRODUCTION

Astragaloside IV (AS-IV) is an index for the quality evaluation of the traditional Chinese medicine Astragalus and an important material basis for Astragalus to exert its medicinal effects, and it is difficult to obtain a single AS-IV by ordinary separation methods.

OBJECTIVE

To find a new isolation method that can prepare AS-IV quickly and efficiently.

METHODOLOGY

AS-IV was isolated from Astragalus membranaceus extract by high-speed countercurrent chromatography using a two-phase solvent system consisting of ethyl acetate/n-butanol/water (4.2:0.8:5, v/v) at a speed of 950 rpm at a flow rate of 2 mL/min using one of the high-speed countercurrent chromatographic sequential injection models developed during the previous study.

RESULTS

Compared with the common countercurrent chromatographic separation, this separation method increased the injection volume and yield by 4-fold and 4.47-fold, respectively, with only about 1.2-fold increase in solvent consumption and separation time, and the purity was basically not reduced, and 55.9 mg of AS-IV, with a purity of 96.95%, was finally prepared from 400 mg of the crude extract in 240 min.

CONCLUSION

The continuous injection mode of high-speed countercurrent chromatography was able to successfully prepare a large amount of AS-IV with high purity at one time.

Polygala japonica Houtt.: A comprehensive review on its botany, traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacology, and pharmacokinetics

Polygala japonica Houtt. (P. japonica), a member of the Polygala genus in the Polygalaceae family, has been historically utilized in traditional folk medicine as an expectorant, anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, and anti-depressant agent. This paper systematically reviews the latest research in botany, traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacology, and pharmacokinetics, aiming to provide a scientific foundation for the future development and application of P. japonica and to explore its potential value comprehensively. Approximately 86 compounds have been isolated from P. japonica, with triterpenoid saponins being the most prevalent and bioactive components. Extensive pharmacological activities of P. japonica extracts or compounds have been confirmed in vivo and in vitro, including anti-inflammatory, anti-depressant, neuroprotective, anti-obesity, anti-apoptotic, and skin-protective effects. Additionally, P. japonica has demonstrated significant curative effects and relatively clear pharmacological mechanisms in treating inflammatory and nervous system diseases. Specific components of its primary triterpenoid saponins are rapidly absorbed in the body. This review advocates for deeper scientific research on P. japonica, noting that most current research remains in its early stages and many reported biological activities require further clinical validation. Despite this, the traditional medical use of P. japonica across various cultures attests to its broad application value. Presently, the pharmacological activities of P. japonica extracts and compounds provide a scientific basis for its traditional uses. Future research must ensure the safety and effectiveness of P. japonica through in-depth pharmacokinetic studies, and the establishment of a refined and standardized quality evaluation system is essential for its clinical development and application.

Possible mechanism for the protective effect of active ingredients of astragalus membranaceus on diabetes nephropathy

Astragali Radix (AR), a common traditional Chinese medicinal herb, exhibits protective effects on diabetic nephropathy (DN) in extensive researches. Aticles focusing on AR in PubMed were collected and reviewed in order to summarize the latest pharmacological effects on DN. The action mechanisms for protectiving effects of AR were associated with regulation of anti-fibrosis, anti-inflammation, anti-oxidative stress, anti-podocyte apoptosis, restoration of mitochondrial function, restoration of endothelial function in diabetes nephropathy experimental models. Consequently, AR hold promise as potential novel therapeutics for the treatment of DN.

Roasted Astragalus membranaceus Inhibits Aβ25-35-Induced Oxidative Stress in Neuronal Cells by Activating the Nrf2/HO-1 and AKT/CREB/BDNF Pathways

(1) Background: Astragalus membranaceus (AM) has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, but its specific mechanism of action in the brain is still unclear. In this study, we developed a roasting process to maximize the cognitive improvement impact of AM. We focused on enhancing physiological activity to enhance the brain neuron protection effect and alleviate neuronal damage caused by neurodegenerative diseases. (2) Methods: AM was roasted at 260 °C for 20, 30, or 40 min, and the hot water extracts were tested on HT22 cells for ROS levels, apoptosis, and antioxidant protein expression. The effect on the BDNF-AKT-CREB pathway under stress was also analyzed. (3) Results: Roasted AM decreased ROS production and the expression of apoptosis-related factors while activating the expression of antioxidant proteins in HT22 cells treated with Aβ25-35. In particular, 30 min roasting (R-AM2) significantly reduced ROS production, inhibited cell death, and increased antioxidant protein expression. The Nrf2 pathway was activated Bax, and cleaved caspase-3 levels were reduced. BDNF and p-CREB expression were increased by 20% and 50-70%, respectively. In the MAPK pathway, p-ERK levels were increased by 30%, and p-P38 levels were increased by approximately 20%. (4) Conclusions: These findings suggest that roasted AM upregulates brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in HT22 cells, providing neuroprotective effects by activating the AKT/CREB/BDNF pathway and inhibiting neuronal apoptosis. Therefore, roasted AM shows potential as a neuroprotective agent for preventing or treating neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's, linked to BDNF deficiency.

Traditional Chinese medicine for the treatment of cancers of hepatobiliary system: from clinical evidence to drug discovery

Hepatic, biliary, and pancreatic cancer pose significant challenges in the field of digestive system diseases due to their highly malignant nature. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has gained attention as a potential therapeutic approach with long-standing use in China and well-recognized clinical benefits. In this review, we systematically summarized the clinical applications of TCM that have shown promising results in clinical trials in treating hepatic, biliary, and pancreatic cancer. We highlighted several commonly used TCM therapeutics with validated efficacy through rigorous clinical trials, including Huaier Granule, Huachansu, and Icaritin. The active compounds and their potential targets have been thoroughly elucidated to offer valuable insights into the potential of TCM for anti-cancer drug discovery. We emphasized the importance of further research to bridge the gap between TCM and modern oncology, facilitating the development of evidence-based TCM treatment for these challenging malignancies.

Astragaloside IV suppresses the proliferation and inflammatory response of human epidermal keratinocytes and ameliorates imiquimod-induced psoriasis-like skin damage in mice

The primary pathological features of psoriasis include excessive epidermal keratinocytes and infiltration of inflammatory cells, which are pivotal targets for psoriasis therapy. Astragaloside IV (AS-IV), the principal active compound of astragalus, exhibits anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immune-modulatory properties. This study aims to investigate AS-IV's anti--psoriatic effects and underlying mechanisms. Normal human epidermal keratinocytes (NHEKs) were stimulated with a combination of TNF-α, IL-17A, IL-1α, IL-22, and oncostatin M (M5) to replicate psoriatic keratinocyte pathology in vitro. Cell proliferation was assessed using CCK8 and EDU staining. Pro-inflammatory cytokine levels were measured via qRT-PCR. In addition, an imiquimod (IMQ)-induced psoriasis mouse model was utilized. Skin histology changes were evaluated with HE staining, while IL-6 and TNF-α levels in mouse serum were quantified using ELISA. NF-κB pathway protein expression was analyzed by western blotting. The results demonstrated that AS-IV inhibited M5-induced proliferation of NHEKs. AS-IV reduced M5-stimulated IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, TNF-α, IL-23, and MCP-1 expression in NHEKs. Moreover, M5-induced phosphorylation of IκBα and p65 was significantly attenuated by AS-IV. Furthermore, AS-IV application ameliorated erythema, scale formation, and epidermal thickening in IMQ-induced psoriasis-like mouse models. AS-IV also decreased IL-6 and TNF-α levels in mouse serum and inhibited IκBα and p65 phosphorylation in skin tissues. However, prostratin treatment reversed these effects. These findings underscore AS-IV's capacity to mitigate M5-induced NHEK proliferation and inflammation. AS-IV shows promise in alleviating IMQ-induced psoriasis-like skin lesions and inflammation by suppressing the NF-κB pathway.

Astragaloside IV confronts amyloid-beta-induced astrocyte senescence via hsp90aa1

Cell senescence is intensively related to aging and neurodegenerative diseases. This study aimed to explore the effect and targets of Astragaloside IV against amyloid-beta-induced astrocyte senescence. Oligomerized amyloid-beta was prepared to culture with human astrocytes. The effects of Astragaloside IV were assessed based on SA-β-gal staining analysis, senescence markers (p53, p16INK4, and p21WAF1), neurotrophic growth factor levels (qRT-PCR), and cell proliferation (CCK-8 kit). The targets for Astragaloside IV were predicted, and hsp90aa1 protein was verified using molecular docking. After hsp90aa1 overexpression, the effects of Astragaloside IV on amyloid-beta-induced astrocytes were assessed. Treatment of human amyloid-beta-induced astrocytes with Astragaloside IV can decrease the percentage of SA-β-gal positive cells, downregulate the p53, p16INK4, and p21WAF1 levels, and increase the levels of neurotrophic growth factors (IGF-1 and NGF mRNA) and cell proliferation. Based on target prediction, hsp90aa1 was found to be a potential target of Astragaloside IV. Moreover, cellular experiments demonstrated that exogenously enhanced expression of hsp90aa1 overexpression suppressed the protective effect of Astragaloside IV on amyloid-beta-induced human astrocytes. The results presented here demonstrate that Astragaloside IV could confront amyloid-beta-induced astrocyte senescence via hsp90aa1, possibly opening new therapeutic avenues.

Traditional Chinese medicines derived natural inhibitors of ferroptosis on ischemic stroke

Ischemic stroke (IS) is a globally prevalent cerebrovascular disorder resulting from cerebral vessel occlusion, leading to significant morbidity and mortality. The intricate pathological mechanisms underlying IS complicate the development of effective therapeutic interventions. Ferroptosis, a form of programmed cell death (PCD) characterized by iron overload and accumulation of lipid peroxidation products, has been increasingly recognized as a key contributor to IS pathology. Traditional Chinese medicines (TCMs) have long been utilized in the management of IS, prompting extensive research into their potential as sources of natural ferroptosis inhibitors. This review investigates the critical role of ferroptosis in IS and provides a comprehensive analysis of current research on natural ferroptosis inhibitors identified in TCMs, aiming to lay a theoretical groundwork for the development of innovative anti-IS therapies.

Astragaloside IV inhibits cell viability and glycolysis of hepatocellular carcinoma by regulating KAT2A-mediated succinylation of PGAM1

BACKGROUND

Astragaloside IV (AS-IV) is one of the basic components of Astragali radix, that has been shown to have preventive effects against various diseases, including cancers. This study aimed to explore the role of AS-IV in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and its underlying mechanism.

METHODS

The cell viability, glucose consumption, lactate production, and extracellular acidification rate (ECAR) in SNU-182 and Huh7 cell lines were detected by specific commercial kits. Western blot was performed to analyze the succinylation level in SNU-182 and Huh7 cell lines. The interaction between lysine acetyltransferase (KAT) 2 A and phosphoglycerate mutase 1 (PGAM1) was evaluated by co-immunoprecipitation and immunofluorescence assays. The role of KAT2A in vivo was explored using a xenografted tumor model.

RESULTS

The results indicated that AS-IV treatment downregulated the protein levels of succinylation and KAT2A in SNU-182 and Huh7 cell lines. The cell viability, glucose consumption, lactate production, ECAR, and succinylation levels were decreased in AS-IV-treated SNU-182 and Huh7 cell lines, and the results were reversed after KAT2A overexpression. KAT2A interacted with PGAM1 to promote the succinylation of PGAM1 at K161 site. KAT2A overexpression promoted the viability and glycolysis of SNU-182 and Huh7 cell lines, which were partly blocked following PGAM1 inhibition. In tumor-bearing mice, AS-IV suppressed tumor growth though inhibiting KAT2A-mediated succinylation of PGAM1.

CONCLUSION

AS-IV inhibited cell viability and glycolysis in HCC by regulating KAT2A-mediated succinylation of PGAM1, suggesting that AS-IV might be a potential and suitable therapeutic agent for treating HCC.

Glycosides of Buyang Huanwu decoction inhibits inflammation associated with cerebral ischemia-reperfusion via the PINK1/Parkin mitophagy pathway

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

A classic stroke formula is Buyang Huanwu Decoction (BYHWD), Glycosides are the pharmacological components found in BYHWD, which are utilized for the prevention and management of cerebral ischemia-reperfusion (CIR), as demonstrated in a previous study. Its neuroprotective properties are closely related to its ability to modulate inflammation, but its mechanism is as yet unclear.

AIM OF THE STUDY

A research was undertaken to investigate the impact of glycosides on the inflammation of CIR through the PTEN-induced putative kinase-1 (PINK1)/Parkin mitophagy pathway.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Analyzing glycosides containing serum components was performed with ultra-performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole-time of flight-mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q-TOF-MS). Glycosides were applied to rat of Middle cerebral artery occlusion/reperfusion (MCAO/R) model and primary neural cell of Oxygen glucose deprivation/reperfusion (OGD/R) model. The neuroprotective effect and the regulation of mitophagy of glycosides were evaluated through neural damage and PINK1/Parkin mitophagy activation. Moreover, the assessment of the relationship between glycosides regulation of mitophagy and its anti-inflammatory effects subsequent to mitophagy blockade was conducted by examining neural damage, PINK1/Parkin mitophagy activation, and levels of pyroptosis.

RESULTS

(1) It was observed that the administration of glycosides resulted in a decrease in neurological function scores, a reduction in cerebral infarction volume, an increase in mitochondrial autophagosome, and the maintenance of a high expression status of light chain 3 (LC3) II/LC3Ⅰ protein. Additionally, there was a significant inhibition of p62 protein expression and an enhancement of PINK1 and Parkin protein expression. Furthermore, it was found that the effect of glycosides at a dosage of 0.128 g · kg-1 was significantly superior to that of glycosides at a dosage of 0.064 g · kg-1. Notably, the neuroprotective effect and inhibition of pyroptosis protein of glycosides at a dosage of 0.128 g · kg-1 were attenuated when mitochondrial autophagy was blocked. (2) Glycosides repaired cellular morphological damage, enhanced cell survival, and reduced Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) leakage, with glycosides (2.36 μg·mL-1 and 4.72 μg·mL-1) neuronal protection being the strongest. Glycosides (4.72 μg·mL-1) maintained LC3II/LC3Ⅰ protein high expression state, inhibited p62 protein expression, and promoted PINK1 and Parkin protein expression, which was stronger than glycosides (2.36 μg·mL-1). The blockade of mitophagy resulted in a reduction of neuroprotection and inhibition of pyroptosis protein exerted by glycosides.

CONCLUSION

Glycosides demonstrate the ability to hinder inflammation through the activation of the PINK1/Parkin mitophagy pathway, thereby leading to subsequent neuroprotective effects on CIR.

Research advances on molecular mechanism and natural product therapy of iron metabolism in heart failure

The progression of heart failure (HF) is complex and involves multiple regulatory pathways. Iron ions play a crucial supportive role as a cofactor for important proteins such as hemoglobin, myoglobin, oxidative respiratory chain, and DNA synthetase, in the myocardial energy metabolism process. In recent years, numerous studies have shown that HF is associated with iron dysmetabolism, and deficiencies in iron and overload of iron can both lead to the development of various myocarditis diseases, which ultimately progress to HF. Iron toxicity and iron metabolism may be key targets for the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of HF. Some iron chelators (such as desferrioxamine), antioxidants (such as ascorbate), Fer-1, and molecules that regulate iron levels (such as lactoferrin) have been shown to be effective in treating HF and protecting the myocardium in multiple studies. Additionally, certain natural compounds can play a significant role by mediating the imbalance of iron-related signaling pathways and expression levels. Therefore, this review not only summarizes the basic processes of iron metabolism in the body and the mechanisms by which they play a role in HF, with the aim of providing new clues and considerations for the treatment of HF, but also summarizes recent studies on natural chemical components that involve ferroptosis and its role in HF pathology, as well as the mechanisms by which naturally occurring products regulate ferroptosis in HF, with the aim of providing reference information for the development of new ferroptosis inhibitors and lead compounds for the treatment of HF in the future.

The Antioxidant Action of Astragali radix: Its Active Components and Molecular Basis

Astragali radix is a traditional medicinal herb with a long history and wide application. It is frequently used in prescriptions with other medicinal materials to replenish Qi. According to the classics of traditional Chinese medicine, Astragali radix is attributed with properties such as Qi replenishing and surface solidifying, sore healing and muscle generating, and inducing diuresis to reduce edema. Modern pharmacological studies have demonstrated that some extracts and active ingredients in Astragali radix function as antioxidants. The polysaccharides, saponins, and flavonoids in Astragali radix offer beneficial effects in preventing and controlling diseases caused by oxidative stress. However, there is still a lack of comprehensive research on the effective components and molecular mechanisms through which Astragali radix exerts antioxidant activity. In this paper, we review the active components with antioxidant effects in Astragali radix; summarize the content, bioavailability, and antioxidant mechanisms; and offer a reference for the clinical application of Astragalus and the future development of novel antioxidants.

Astragaloside IV combined with ligustrazine ameliorates abnormal mitochondrial dynamics via Drp1 SUMO/deSUMOylation in cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury

OBJECTIVES

Astragaloside IV (AST IV) and ligustrazine (Lig), the main ingredients of Astragali Radix and Chuanxiong Rhizoma respectively, have demonstrated significant benefits in treatment of cerebral ischemia -reperfusion injury (CIRI); however, the mechanisms underlying its benificial effects remain unclear. SUMO-1ylation and deSUMO-2/3ylation of dynamin-related protein 1 (Drp1) results in mitochondrial homeostasis imbalance following CIRI, which subsequently aggravates cell damage. This study investigates the mechanisms by which AST IV combined with Lig protects against CIRI, focusing on the involvement of SUMOylation in mitochondrial dynamics.

METHODS

Rats were administrated AST IV and Lig for 7 days, and middle cerebral artery occlusion was established to mimic CIRI. Neural function, cerebral infarction volume, cerebral blood flow, cognitive function, cortical pathological lesions, and mitochondrial morphology were measured. SH-SY5Y cells were subjected to oxygen-glucose deprivation/reoxygenation (OGD/R) injury. Mitochondrial membrane potential and lactic dehydrogenase (LDH), reactive oxygen species (ROS), and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) levels were assessed with commercial kits. Moreover, co-immunoprecipitation (Co-IP) was used to detect the binding of SUMO1 and SUMO2/3 to Drp1. The protein expressions of Drp1, Fis1, MFF, OPA1, Mfn1, Mfn2, SUMO1, SUMO2/3, SENP1, SENP2, SENP3, SENP5, and SENP6 were measured using western blot.

RESULTS

In rats with CIRI, AST IV and Lig improved neurological and cognitive functions, restored CBF, reduced brain infarct volume, and alleviated cortical neuron and mitochondrial damage. Moreover, in SH-SY5Y cells, the combination of AST IV and Lig enhanced cellular viability, decreased release of LDH and ROS, increased ATP content, and improved mitochondrial membrane potential. Furthermore, AST IV combined with Lig reduced the binding of Drp1 with SUMO1, increased the binding of Drp1 with SUMO2/3, suppressed the expressions of Drp1, Fis1, MFF, and SENP3, and increased the expressions of OPA1, Mfn1, Mfn2, SENP1, SENP2, and SENP5. SUMO1 overexpression promoted mitochondrial fission and inhibited mitochondrial fusion, whereas SUMO2/3 overexpression suppressed mitochondrial fission. AST IV combined with Lig could reverse the effects of SUMO1 overexpression while enhancing those of SUMO2/3 overexpression.

CONCLUSIONS

This study posits that the combination of AST IV and Lig has the potential to reduce the SUMO-1ylation of Drp1, augment the SUMO-2/3ylation of Drp1, and thereby exert a protective effect against CIRI.

From hyperglycemia to intervertebral disc damage: exploring diabetic-induced disc degeneration

The incidence of lumbar disc herniation has gradually increased in recent years, and most patients have symptoms of low back pain and nerve compression, which brings a heavy burden to patients and society alike. Although the causes of disc herniation are complex, intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) is considered to be the most common factor. The intervertebral disc (IVD) is composed of the upper and lower cartilage endplates, nucleus pulposus, and annulus fibrosus. Aging, abnormal mechanical stress load, and metabolic disorders can exacerbate the progression of IDD. Among them, high glucose and high-fat diets (HFD) can lead to fat accumulation, abnormal glucose metabolism, and inflammation, which are considered important factors affecting the homeostasis of IDD. Diabetes and advanced glycation end products (AGEs) accumulation- can lead to various adverse effects on the IVD, including cell senescence, apoptosis, pyroptosis, proliferation, and Extracellular matrix (ECM) degradation. While current research provides a fundamental basis for the treatment of high glucose-induced IDD patients. further exploration into the mechanisms of abnormal glucose metabolism affecting IDD and in the development of targeted drugs will provide the foundation for the effective treatment of these patients. We aimed to systematically review studies regarding the effects of hyperglycemia on the progress of IDD.

Alterations of gut microbiota and its correlation with the liver metabolome in the process of ameliorating Parkinson's disease with Buyang Huanwu decoction

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Buyang Huanwu decoction (BHD), a famous traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) formula, was first recorded in Qing Dynasty physician Qingren Wang's Yi Lin Gai Cuo. BHD has been widely utilized in the treatment of patients with neurological disorders, including Parkinson's disease (PD). However, the underlying mechanism has not been fully elucidated. In particular, little is known about the role of gut microbiota.

AIM OF THE STUDY

We aimed to reveal the alterations and functions of gut microbiota and its correlation with the liver metabolome in the process of improving PD with BHD.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The cecal contents were collected from PD mice treated with or without BHD. 16S rRNA gene sequencing was performed on an Illumina MiSeq-PE250 platform, and the ecological structure, dominant taxa, co-occurrence patterns, and function prediction of the gut microbial community were analyzed by multivariate statistical methods. The correlation between differential microbial communities in the gut and differentially accumulated metabolites in the liver was analyzed using Spearman's correlation analysis.

RESULTS

The abundance of Butyricimonas, Christensenellaceae, Coprococcus, Peptococcaceae, Odoribacteraceae, and Roseburia was altered significantly in the model group, which was by BHD. Ten genera, namely Dorea, unclassified_Lachnospiraceae, Oscillospira, unidentified_Ruminococcaceae, unclassified_Clostridiales, unidentified_Clostridiales, Bacteroides, unclassified_Prevotellaceae, unidentified_Rikenellaceae, and unidentified_S24-7, were identified as key bacterial communities. According to the function prediction of differential genera, the mRNA surveillance pathway might be a target of BHD. Integrated analysis of gut microbiota and the liver metabolome revealed that several gut microbiota genera such as Parabacteroides, Ochrobactrum, Acinetobacter, Clostridium, and Halomonas, were positively or negatively correlated with some nervous system-related metabolites, such as L-carnitine, L-pyroglutamic acid, oleic acid, and taurine.

CONCLUSIONS

Gut microbiota might be a target of BHD in the process of ameliorating PD. Our findings provide novel insight into the mechanisms underlying the effects of BHD on PD and contribute to the development of TCM.

Melatonin: a promising neuroprotective agent for cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury

Cerebral ischemia-reperfusion (CIR) injury is initiated by the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which leads to the oxidation of cellular proteins, DNA, and lipids as an initial event. The reperfusion process impairs critical cascades that support cell survival, including mitochondrial biogenesis and antioxidant enzyme activity. Failure to activate prosurvival signals may result in increased neuronal cell death and exacerbation of CIR damage. Melatonin, a hormone produced naturally in the body, has high concentrations in both the cerebrospinal fluid and the brain. However, melatonin production declines significantly with age, which may contribute to the development of age-related neurological disorders due to reduced levels. By activating various signaling pathways, melatonin can affect multiple aspects of human health due to its diverse range of activities. Therefore, understanding the underlying intracellular and molecular mechanisms is crucial before investigating the neuroprotective effects of melatonin in cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury.

Potential antidepressant effects of a dietary supplement from Huáng qí and its complex in aged senescence-accelerated mouse prone-8 mice

Healthcare is an emerging industry with significant market potential in the 21st century. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the benefits of tube feeding Huáng qí and its complexes for 8 weeks on 3-month-old senescence-accelerated mouse prone-8 (SAMP8) mice, 48 in total, randomly divided into 3 groups including control, Huáng qí extract [820 mg/kg Body weight (BW)/day], and Huáng qí complexes (6.2 mL /kg BW/day), where each group consisted of males (n = 8) and females (n = 8). Behavioral tests (locomotion test and aging score assessment on week 6, the single-trial passive avoidance test on week 7, and the active shuttle avoidance test on week 8) were conducted to evaluate the ability of the mice to learn and remember. In addition, after sacrificing the animals, the blood and organs were measured for antioxidant and aging bioactivities, including malondialdehyde (MDA) content and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and catalase activities (CAT), and the effects on promoting aging in SAMP8 mice were investigated. The findings showed that Huáng qí enhanced locomotor performance and had anti-aging effects, with positive effects on health, learning, and memory in SAMP-8 mice (p < 0.05), whether applied as a single agent (820 mg/kg BW/day) or as a complex (6.2 mL/kg BW/day) (p < 0.05). Based on existing strengths, a more compelling platform for clinical validation of human clinical evidence will be established to enhance the development and value-added of astragalus-related products while meeting the diversified needs of the functional food market.

Lactic Acid Bacteria (LAB) and Neuroprotection, What Is New? An Up-To-Date Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

In recent years, the potential role of probiotics has become prominent in the discoveries of neurotherapy against neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) exhibit neuroprotective properties and exert their effects via various mechanisms of actions. This review aimed to evaluate the effects of LAB on neuroprotection reported in the literature.

METHODS

A database search on Google Scholar, PubMed, and Science Direct revealed a total of 467 references, of which 25 were included in this review based on inclusion criteria which comprises 7 in vitro, 16 in vivo, and 2 clinical studies.

RESULTS

From the studies, LAB treatment alone or in probiotics formulations demonstrated significant neuroprotective activities. In animals and humans, LAB probiotics supplementation has improved memory and cognitive performance mainly via antioxidant and anti-inflammatory pathways.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite promising findings, due to limited studies available in the literature, further studies still need to be explored regarding synergistic effects, efficacy, and optimum dosage of LAB oral bacteriotherapy as treatment or prevention against neurodegenerative diseases.

Advances in autophagy modulation of natural products in cervical cancer

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Natural products play a critical role in drug development and is emerging as a potential source of biologically active metabolites for therapeutic intervention, especially in cancer therapy. In recent years, there is increasing evidence that many natural products may modulate autophagy through various signaling pathways in cervical cancer. Understanding the mechanisms of these natural products helps to develop medications for cervical cancer treatments.

AIM OF THE STUDY

In recent years, there is increasing evidence that many natural products may modulate autophagy through various signaling pathways in cervical cancer. In this review, we briefly introduce autophagy and systematically describe several classes of natural products implicated in autophagy modulation in cervical cancer, hoping to provide valuable information for the development of cervical cancer treatments based on autophagy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We searched for studies on natural products and autophagy in cervical cancer on the online database and summarized the relationship between natural products and autophagy modulation in cervical cancer.

RESULTS

Autophagy is a lysosome-mediated catabolic process in eukaryotic cells that plays an important role in a variety of physiological and pathological processes, including cervical cancer. Abnormal expression of cellular autophagy and autophagy-related proteins has been implicated in cervical carcinogenesis, and human papillomavirus infection can affect autophagic activity. Flavonoids, alkaloids, polyphenols, terpenoids, quinones, and other compounds are important sources of natural products that act as anticancer agents. In cervical cancer, natural products exert the anticancer function mainly through the induction of protective autophagy.

CONCLUSIONS

The regulation of cervical cancer autophagy by natural products has significant advantages in inducing apoptosis, inhibiting proliferation, and reducing drug resistance in cervical cancer.

Methamphetamine: Mechanism of Action and Chinese Herbal Medicine Treatment for Its Addiction

With the proliferation of synthetic drugs, research on the mechanism of action of addictive drugs and treatment methods is of great significance. Among them, methamphetamine (METH) is the most representative amphetamine synthetic drug, and the treatment of METH addiction has become an urgent medical and social problem. In recent years, the therapeutic effects of Chinese herbal medicines on METH addiction have gained widespread attention because of their non-addictiveness, multiple targets, low side effects, low cost, and other characteristics. Previous studies have identified a variety of Chinese herbal medicines with effects on METH addiction. Based on the research on METH in recent years, this article summarizes the mechanism of action of METH as the starting point and briefly reviews the Chinese herbal medicine-based treatment of METH.