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Wu D, Xie B, Li J, Xiao Z, Shen J, Wu X, Li M, Sun Q, Shen H, Li X, Dai Y, Zhao Y. Quercitrin, the primary active ingredient of Albizia julibrissin Durazz. flowers, alleviates methamphetamine-induced hepatotoxicity through a mitochondria-mediated apoptosis pathway. Front Pharmacol 2025; 16:1482172. [PMID: 40098616 PMCID: PMC11911681 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2025.1482172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2025] [Indexed: 03/19/2025] Open
Abstract
Background and purpose Methamphetamine (METH), a synthetic psychostimulant and highly addictive drug, could cause depression and acute liver injury. There have been few studies on the mechanism by which METH induces liver damage and on how to alleviate METH-induced hepatic toxicities. Albizzia julibrissin Durazz. flowers (AF) is a traditional Chinese medicine known for its ability to releve depression and soothe the liver. The extracts of AF have shown hepatoprotective effects with their anti-oxidative activities. The potential of AF extracts to alleviate METH-induced hepatic toxicity remains unclear. This study aims to investigate the effects of AF extracts and their priamry active ingredient on METH-induced hepatotoxicity and explore the potential underlying mechanisms. Methods Firstly, we used the MTT assay to screen the active components of AF. Then, UPLC-MS/MS was employed to analyze the effective components and identify their activities. In addition, in vitro and in vivo experiments were conducted to explore the effects of the active components on METH-induced hepatic toxicity. Moreover, flow cytometry was employed to detect the effects of the active components of AF on METH-induced hepatocyte cycle arrest and apoptosis; biochemical kits were used to detect oxidative damage; transmission electron microscopy, mitochondrial membrane potential probes, and Western blotting were used to analyze mitochondrial damage. C57/BL6J mice were used to establish a METH-mediated acute liver injury model. After 21 days of intervention with the effective components of AF, serum from mice was collected to detect the level of liver injury markers, and tissues were collected for H&E staining, oxidation index analysis, and mitochondrial-related protein expression analysis. Results We found that the ethyl acetate fraction of AF extracts significantly alleviated the decrase in hepatocyte activity induced by METH in vitro. Further UPLC-MS/MS analyses showed that quercitrin (QR) is the major active ingredient of AF extracts. QR alleviates METH-induced hepatocyte apoptosis, cell cycle arrest, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial damage. QR alleviates METH-induced oxidative liver damage in mice and exerts therapeutic effects by regulating the BAX/CASP3 pathway. Conclusion AF and its main component QR can effectively alleviate METH-induced liver injury, and its mechanism is related to the mitochondria-mediated apoptotic pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Wu
- Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine School, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Bo Xie
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Cell Therapy and Cell Drugs of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- South Sichuan Institute of Translational Medicine, Luzhou, China
| | - Jing Li
- Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine School, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Department of Oncology and Hematology, The Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Southwest Medical University, Sichuan, China
| | - Zhangang Xiao
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Cell Therapy and Cell Drugs of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- South Sichuan Institute of Translational Medicine, Luzhou, China
| | - Jing Shen
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Cell Therapy and Cell Drugs of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- South Sichuan Institute of Translational Medicine, Luzhou, China
| | - Xu Wu
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Cell Therapy and Cell Drugs of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- South Sichuan Institute of Translational Medicine, Luzhou, China
| | - Mingxing Li
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Cell Therapy and Cell Drugs of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- South Sichuan Institute of Translational Medicine, Luzhou, China
| | - Qin Sun
- Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine School, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- National Traditional Chinese Medicine Clinical Research Base, Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Drug Research Center of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Hongping Shen
- Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine School, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- National Traditional Chinese Medicine Clinical Research Base, Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Drug Research Center of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Xiaobing Li
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Cell Therapy and Cell Drugs of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- South Sichuan Institute of Translational Medicine, Luzhou, China
| | - Yong Dai
- Sichuan Police College, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Yueshui Zhao
- Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine School, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Cell Therapy and Cell Drugs of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- South Sichuan Institute of Translational Medicine, Luzhou, China
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Fatima I, Safdar N, Akhtar W, Ayaz A, Ali S, Elansary HO, Moussa IM, Zaman W. Green solvent-based extraction of three Fabaceae species: A potential antioxidant, anti-diabetic, and anti-leishmanial agents. Heliyon 2024; 10:e33668. [PMID: 39044967 PMCID: PMC11263666 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e33668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2024] [Revised: 06/21/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The Fabaceae is renowned for its diverse range of chemical compounds with significant biological activities, making it a valuable subject for pharmacological studies. The chemical composition and biological activities of three Fabaceae species were investigated using methanol separately and in combination with dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) and glycerol for extraction. The results revealed the highest phenolic (49.59 ± 0.38 mg gallic acid equivalent/g), flavonoid (29.16 ± 0.39 mg rutin equivalent/g), and alkaloid (14.23 ± 0.54 mg atropine equivalent/g) contents in the Caesalpinia decapetala methanol extracts. The 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging activity and DNA protection activity were the highest (0.88 ± 0.43 μg/mL IC50 and 2149.26 band intensity) in Albizia julibrissin methanol extracts. The α-amylase activity was highest in all methanol extracts (<15 μg/mL IC50 values), while the α-glucosidase inhibition potential was highest (<1 μg/mL IC50 value) in the methanol-glycerol and methanol-DMSO extracts. Pearson coefficient analysis showed a strong positive correlation between the DPPH and α-amylase assays and phytochemicals. Anti-leishmanial activity was observed in decreasing order: A. julibrissin (74.75 %) > C. decapetala (70.86 %) > Indigofera atropurpurea (65.34 %). Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry revealed 33 volatile compounds and, aamong these (Z)-9-octadecenamide was detected in the highest concentration ranging from 21.85 to 38.61 %. Only the methanol extracts of the examined species could be assessed for in vivo studies for immediate applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iram Fatima
- Department of Biotechnology, Fatima Jinnah Women University, Rawalpindi, Pakistan
- Medicinal Botanic Center, PCSIR Laboratories Complex, Peshawar, 25120, Pakistan
| | - Naila Safdar
- Department of Biotechnology, Fatima Jinnah Women University, Rawalpindi, Pakistan
| | - Wasim Akhtar
- Department of Botany, University of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Muzaffarabad, Pakistan
| | - Asma Ayaz
- Faculty of Sports Science, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315211, China
| | - Sajid Ali
- Department of Horticulture and Life Science, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan, 38541, Republic of Korea
| | - Hosam O. Elansary
- Plant Production Department, College of Food and Agriculture Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh, 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ihab Mohamed Moussa
- Department of Botany and Microbiology, College of Science, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2455, Riyadh, 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Wajid Zaman
- Department of Life Sciences, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan, 38541, Gyeongbuk, Republic of Korea
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Li S, Zhang W, Zhu Y, Yao Q, Chen R, Kou L, Shi X. Nanomedicine revolutionizes epilepsy treatment: overcoming therapeutic hurdles with nanoscale solutions. Expert Opin Drug Deliv 2024; 21:735-750. [PMID: 38787859 DOI: 10.1080/17425247.2024.2360528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Epilepsy, a prevalent neurodegenerative disorder, profoundly impacts the physical and mental well-being of millions globally. Historically, antiseizure drugs (ASDs) have been the primary treatment modality. However, despite the introduction of novel ASDs in recent decades, a significant proportion of patients still experiences uncontrolled seizures. AREAS COVERED The rapid advancement of nanomedicine in recent years has enabled precise targeting of the brain, thereby enhancing therapeutic efficacy for brain diseases, including epilepsy. EXPERT OPINION Nanomedicine holds immense promise in epilepsy treatment, including but not limited to enhancing drug solubility and stability, improving drug across blood-brain barrier, overcoming resistance, and reducing side effects, potentially revolutionizing clinical management. This paper provides a comprehensive overview of current epilepsy treatment modalities and highlights recent advancements in nanomedicine-based drug delivery systems for epilepsy control. We discuss the diverse strategies used in developing novel nanotherapies, their mechanisms of action, and the potential advantages they offer compared to traditional treatment methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shize Li
- Wenzhou Municipal Key Laboratory of Pediatric Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacy, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Structural Malformations in Children of Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou, China
| | - Wenhao Zhang
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Structural Malformations in Children of Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou, China
| | - Yuhao Zhu
- Wenzhou Municipal Key Laboratory of Pediatric Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacy, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Qing Yao
- Wenzhou Municipal Key Laboratory of Pediatric Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacy, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Ruijie Chen
- Wenzhou Municipal Key Laboratory of Pediatric Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacy, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Structural Malformations in Children of Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou, China
| | - Longfa Kou
- Wenzhou Municipal Key Laboratory of Pediatric Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacy, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Structural Malformations in Children of Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou, China
| | - Xulai Shi
- Wenzhou Municipal Key Laboratory of Pediatric Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacy, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
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Qu Z, Zheng Y, Wu S, Bing Y, Sun Z, Zhu S, Li W, Zou X. Two Omics Methods Expose Anti-Depression Mechanism of Raw and Vinegar-Baked Bupleurum Scorzonerifolium Willd. Chem Biodivers 2024; 21:e202301733. [PMID: 38217462 DOI: 10.1002/cbdv.202301733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2023] [Revised: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 01/15/2024]
Abstract
Bupleurum scorzonerifolium willd. (BS) and its vinegar-baked product (VBS) has been frequently utilized for depression management in clinical Chinese medicine. This paper aims to elucidate the antidepressant mechanism of BS and VBS from the perspectives of metabonomics and gut microbiota. A rat model of depression was established by CUMS combined with feeding alone to evaluate the antidepressant effects of BS and VBS. UPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS-based metabolomics and 16S rRNA sequencing of rat feces were applied and the correlation of differential metabolic markers and intestinal floras was analyzed. The result revealed that BS and VBS significantly improved depression-like behaviors and the levels of monoamine neurotransmitters in CUMS rats. There were 27 differential endogenous metabolites between CUMS and normal rats, which were involved in 8 metabolic pathways. Whereas, BS and VBS could regulate 18 and 20 metabolites respectively, wherein fifteen of them were shared metabolites. On the genus level, BS and VBS could regulate twenty-five kinds of intestinal floras in CUMS rats, that is, they increased the abundance of beneficial bacteria and decreased the abundance of harmful bacteria. In conclusion, both BS and VBS exert excellent antidepressant effects by regulating various metabolic pathways and ameliorating intestinal microflora dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhongyuan Qu
- School of Pharmacy, Harbin University of Commerce, Harbin, 150076, China
| | - Yan Zheng
- School of Pharmacy, Harbin University of Commerce, Harbin, 150076, China
| | - Shuang Wu
- School of Pharmacy, Harbin University of Commerce, Harbin, 150076, China
| | - Yifan Bing
- School of Pharmacy, Harbin University of Commerce, Harbin, 150076, China
| | - Zhiwei Sun
- School of Pharmacy, Harbin University of Commerce, Harbin, 150076, China
| | - Shiru Zhu
- School of Pharmacy, Harbin University of Commerce, Harbin, 150076, China
| | - Wenlan Li
- School of Pharmacy, Harbin University of Commerce, Harbin, 150076, China
- Engineering Research Center on Natural Antineoplastic Drugs, Ministry of Education, Harbin University of Commerce, Ha Er Bin Shi, 150076, China
| | - Xiang Zou
- Engineering Research Center on Natural Antineoplastic Drugs, Ministry of Education, Harbin University of Commerce, Ha Er Bin Shi, 150076, China
- School of Life Sciences, University of Sussex, Brighton BN19RH, UK
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Wang H, Zhao D, Wang S, Liu H, Zhao S, Li Z, Qin X, Liu X. Gastrointestinal Characteristics of Constipation from the Perspectives of Microbiome and Metabolome. Dig Dis Sci 2024; 69:1318-1335. [PMID: 38446304 DOI: 10.1007/s10620-024-08334-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Constipation is one of the most common gastrointestinal complaints. Yet, the underlying mechanisms of constipation remain to be explored deeply. Integration of microbiome and metabolome is powerful and promising to demonstrate characteristics of constipation. AIM OF STUDY This study aimed to characterize intestinal microbiome and metabolome of constipation. In addition, this study revealed the correlations among behaviors, intestinal microbiota, and metabolites interrupted by constipation. METHODS Firstly, the constipation model was successfully applied. At the macro level, the ability of learning, memory, locomotor activity, and the defecation index of rats with constipation-like phenotype were characterized. At the micro-level, 16S rRNA sequencing was applied to analyze the intestinal microbiota in rats with constipation-like phenotype. 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR)-based metabolomics was employed to investigate the metabolic phenotype of constipation. In addition, we constructed a correlation network, intuitively showing the correlations among behaviors, intestinal microbiota, and metabolites. RESULTS Constipation significantly attenuated the locomotor activity, memory recognition, and frequency of defecation of rats, while increased the time of defecation. Constipation significantly changed the diversity of intestinal microbial communities, which correspondingly involved in 5 functional pathways. Besides, 28 fecal metabolites were found to be associated with constipation, among which 14 metabolites were further screened that can be used to diagnose constipation. On top of this, associated networks intuitively showed the correlations among behaviors, intestinal microbiota, and metabolites. CONCLUSIONS The current findings are significant in terms of not only laying a foundation for understanding characteristics of constipation, but also providing accurate diagnosis and treatments of constipation clinically.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huimin Wang
- Modern Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanxi University, No. 92, Wucheng Rd. Xiaodian Dist., Taiyuan, 030006, Shanxi, China
- The Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Molecular Engineering of Ministry of Education, Shanxi University, No. 92, Wucheng Rd. Xiaodian Dist., Taiyuan, 030006, Shanxi, China
- Institute of Biomedicine and Health, Shanxi University, No. 92, Wucheng Rd. Xiaodian Dist., Taiyuan, 030006, Shanxi, China
| | - Di Zhao
- Modern Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanxi University, No. 92, Wucheng Rd. Xiaodian Dist., Taiyuan, 030006, Shanxi, China
- The Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Molecular Engineering of Ministry of Education, Shanxi University, No. 92, Wucheng Rd. Xiaodian Dist., Taiyuan, 030006, Shanxi, China
- Institute of Biomedicine and Health, Shanxi University, No. 92, Wucheng Rd. Xiaodian Dist., Taiyuan, 030006, Shanxi, China
| | - Senyan Wang
- Modern Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanxi University, No. 92, Wucheng Rd. Xiaodian Dist., Taiyuan, 030006, Shanxi, China
- The Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Molecular Engineering of Ministry of Education, Shanxi University, No. 92, Wucheng Rd. Xiaodian Dist., Taiyuan, 030006, Shanxi, China
- Institute of Biomedicine and Health, Shanxi University, No. 92, Wucheng Rd. Xiaodian Dist., Taiyuan, 030006, Shanxi, China
| | - Huanle Liu
- Modern Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanxi University, No. 92, Wucheng Rd. Xiaodian Dist., Taiyuan, 030006, Shanxi, China
- The Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Molecular Engineering of Ministry of Education, Shanxi University, No. 92, Wucheng Rd. Xiaodian Dist., Taiyuan, 030006, Shanxi, China
- Institute of Biomedicine and Health, Shanxi University, No. 92, Wucheng Rd. Xiaodian Dist., Taiyuan, 030006, Shanxi, China
| | - Sijun Zhao
- Department of Pharmacology, Shanxi Institute for Food and Drug Control, No. 12, Taiyuan South Rd., Yingze Dist, Taiyuan, 030001, Shanxi, China
| | - Zhenyu Li
- Modern Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanxi University, No. 92, Wucheng Rd. Xiaodian Dist., Taiyuan, 030006, Shanxi, China
- The Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Molecular Engineering of Ministry of Education, Shanxi University, No. 92, Wucheng Rd. Xiaodian Dist., Taiyuan, 030006, Shanxi, China
- Institute of Biomedicine and Health, Shanxi University, No. 92, Wucheng Rd. Xiaodian Dist., Taiyuan, 030006, Shanxi, China
| | - Xuemei Qin
- Modern Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanxi University, No. 92, Wucheng Rd. Xiaodian Dist., Taiyuan, 030006, Shanxi, China
- The Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Molecular Engineering of Ministry of Education, Shanxi University, No. 92, Wucheng Rd. Xiaodian Dist., Taiyuan, 030006, Shanxi, China
- Institute of Biomedicine and Health, Shanxi University, No. 92, Wucheng Rd. Xiaodian Dist., Taiyuan, 030006, Shanxi, China
| | - Xiaojie Liu
- Modern Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanxi University, No. 92, Wucheng Rd. Xiaodian Dist., Taiyuan, 030006, Shanxi, China.
- The Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Molecular Engineering of Ministry of Education, Shanxi University, No. 92, Wucheng Rd. Xiaodian Dist., Taiyuan, 030006, Shanxi, China.
- Institute of Biomedicine and Health, Shanxi University, No. 92, Wucheng Rd. Xiaodian Dist., Taiyuan, 030006, Shanxi, China.
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Lemons JMS, Narrowe AB, Liu L, Firrman J, Mahalak KK, Van den Abbeele P, Baudot A, Deyaert S, Li Y, Yu L(L. Impact of Baizhu, Daqingye, and Hehuanhua extracts on the human gut microbiome. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2023; 13:1298392. [PMID: 38145049 PMCID: PMC10740150 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2023.1298392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction In traditional Chinese medicine, the rhizome of Atractylodes macrocephala (Baizhu), the leaves of Isatis indigotica (Daqingye), and the flowers of Albizia julibrissin (Hehuanhua) have been used to treat gastrointestinal illnesses, epidemics, and mental health issues. Modern researchers are now exploring the underlying mechanisms responsible for their efficacy. Previous studies often focused on the impact of purified chemicals or mixed extracts from these plants on cells in tissue culture or in rodent models. Methods As modulation of the human gut microbiome has been linked to host health status both within the gastrointestinal tract and in distant tissues, the effects of lipid-free ethanol extracts of Baizhu, Daqingye, and Hehuanhua on the human adult gut microbiome were assessed using Systemic Intestinal Fermentation Research (SIFR®) technology (n=6). Results and discussion Baizhu and Daqingye extracts similarly impacted microbial community structure and function, with the extent of effects being more pronounced for Baizhu. These effects included decreases in the Bacteroidetes phylum and increases in health-related Bifidobacterium spp. and short chain fatty acids which may contribute to Baizhu's efficacy against gastrointestinal ailments. The changes upon Hehuanhua treatment were larger and included increases in multiple bacterial species, including Agathobaculum butyriciproducens, Adlercreutzia equolifaciens, and Gordonibacter pamelaeae, known to produce secondary metabolites beneficial to mental health. In addition, many of the changes induced by Hehuanhua correlated with a rise in Enterobacteriaceae spp., which may make the tested dose of this herb contraindicated for some individuals. Overall, there is some evidence to suggest that the palliative effect of these herbs may be mediated, in part, by their impact on the gut microbiome, but more research is needed to elucidate the exact mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johanna M. S. Lemons
- United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Eastern Regional Research Center, Dairy and Functional Foods Research Unit, Wyndmoor, PA, United States
| | - Adrienne B. Narrowe
- United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Eastern Regional Research Center, Dairy and Functional Foods Research Unit, Wyndmoor, PA, United States
| | - LinShu Liu
- United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Eastern Regional Research Center, Dairy and Functional Foods Research Unit, Wyndmoor, PA, United States
| | - Jenni Firrman
- United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Eastern Regional Research Center, Dairy and Functional Foods Research Unit, Wyndmoor, PA, United States
| | - Karley K. Mahalak
- United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Eastern Regional Research Center, Dairy and Functional Foods Research Unit, Wyndmoor, PA, United States
| | | | | | | | - Yanfang Li
- Department of Nutrition and Food Science, 0112 Skinner Building University of Maryland, College Park, MD, United States
| | - Liangli (Lucy) Yu
- Department of Nutrition and Food Science, 0112 Skinner Building University of Maryland, College Park, MD, United States
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Chen J, Li T, Huang D, Gong W, Tian J, Gao X, Qin X, Du G, Zhou Y. Integrating UHPLC-MS/MS quantitative analysis and exogenous purine supplementation to elucidate the antidepressant mechanism of Chaigui granules by regulating purine metabolism. J Pharm Anal 2023; 13:1562-1576. [PMID: 38223448 PMCID: PMC10785246 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpha.2023.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2023] [Revised: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Chaigui granules (CG) are a compound composed of six herbal medicines with significant antidepressant effects. However, the antidepressant mechanism of CG remains unclear. In the present study, we attempted to elucidate the antidepressant mechanism of CG by regulating purine metabolism and purinergic signaling. First, the regulatory effect of CG on purine metabolites in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) of chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) rats was analyzed by ultra high-performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS) targeted quantitative analysis. Meanwhile, purinergic receptors (P2X7 receptor (P2X7R), A1 receptor (A1R) and A2A receptor (A2AR)) and signaling pathways (nod-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome pathway and cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP)-protein kinase A (PKA) pathway) associated with purine metabolism were analyzed by western blotting and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Besides, antidepressant mechanism of CG by modulating purine metabolites to activate purinergic receptors and related signaling pathways was dissected by exogenous supplementation of purine metabolites and antagonism of purinergic receptors in vitro. An in vivo study showed that the decrease in xanthine and the increase in four purine nucleosides were closely related to the antidepressant effects of CG. Additionally, purinergic receptors (P2X7R, A1R and A2AR) and related signaling pathways (NLRP3 inflammasome pathway and cAMP-PKA pathway) were also significantly regulated by CG. The results of exogenous supplementation of purine metabolites and antagonism of purinergic receptors showed that excessive accumulation of xanthine led to activation of the P2X7R-NLRP3 inflammasome pathway, and the reduction of adenosine and inosine inhibited the A1R-cAMP-PKA pathway, which was significantly ameliorated by CG. Overall, CG could promote neuroprotection and ultimately play an antidepressant role by inhibiting the xanthine-P2X7R-NLRP3 inflammasome pathway and activating the adenosine/inosine-A1R-cAMP-PKA pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiajun Chen
- Modern Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, 030006, China
- The Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Molecular Engineering of Ministry of Education, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, 030006, China
- The Key Laboratory of Effective Substances Research and Utilization in TCM of Shanxi Province, Taiyuan, 030006, China
| | - Tian Li
- Modern Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, 030006, China
- The Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Molecular Engineering of Ministry of Education, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, 030006, China
- The Key Laboratory of Effective Substances Research and Utilization in TCM of Shanxi Province, Taiyuan, 030006, China
| | - Dehua Huang
- Modern Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, 030006, China
- The Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Molecular Engineering of Ministry of Education, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, 030006, China
- The Key Laboratory of Effective Substances Research and Utilization in TCM of Shanxi Province, Taiyuan, 030006, China
| | - Wenxia Gong
- Modern Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, 030006, China
- The Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Molecular Engineering of Ministry of Education, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, 030006, China
- The Key Laboratory of Effective Substances Research and Utilization in TCM of Shanxi Province, Taiyuan, 030006, China
| | - Junsheng Tian
- Modern Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, 030006, China
- The Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Molecular Engineering of Ministry of Education, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, 030006, China
- The Key Laboratory of Effective Substances Research and Utilization in TCM of Shanxi Province, Taiyuan, 030006, China
| | - Xiaoxia Gao
- Modern Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, 030006, China
- The Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Molecular Engineering of Ministry of Education, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, 030006, China
- The Key Laboratory of Effective Substances Research and Utilization in TCM of Shanxi Province, Taiyuan, 030006, China
| | - Xuemei Qin
- Modern Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, 030006, China
- The Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Molecular Engineering of Ministry of Education, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, 030006, China
- The Key Laboratory of Effective Substances Research and Utilization in TCM of Shanxi Province, Taiyuan, 030006, China
| | - Guanhua Du
- Modern Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, 030006, China
- Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100050, China
| | - Yuzhi Zhou
- Modern Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, 030006, China
- The Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Molecular Engineering of Ministry of Education, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, 030006, China
- The Key Laboratory of Effective Substances Research and Utilization in TCM of Shanxi Province, Taiyuan, 030006, China
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