Evidence for the complementary and synergistic effects of the three-alkaloid combination regimen containing berberine, hypaconitine and skimmianine on the ulcerative colitis rats induced by trinitrobenzene-sulfonic acid

Harnessing nature's pharmacy: investigating natural compounds as novel therapeutics for ulcerative colitis

Backgrounds

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a form of chronic inflammatory bowel disease, and UC diagnosis rates continue to rise throughout the globe. The research and development of new drugs for the treatment of UC are urgent, and natural compounds are an important source. However, there is a lack of systematic summarization of natural compounds and their mechanisms for the treatment of UC.

Methods

We reviewed the literature in the databases below from their inception until July 2023: Web of Science, PubMed, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, and Wanfang Data, to obtain information on the relationship between natural compounds and UC.

Results

The results showed that 279 natural compounds treat UC through four main mechanisms, including regulating gut microbiota and metabolites (Mechanism I), protecting the intestinal mucosal barrier (Mechanism II), regulating intestinal mucosal immune response (Mechanism III), as well as regulating other mechanisms (Mechanism Ⅳ) such as cellular autophagy modulation and ferroptosis inhibition. Of these, Mechanism III is regulated by all natural compounds. The 279 natural compounds, including 62 terpenoids, 57 alkaloids, 52 flavonoids, 26 phenols, 19 phenylpropanoids, 9 steroids, 9 saponins, 8 quinonoids, 6 vitamins, and 31 others, can effectively ameliorate UC. Of these, terpenoids, alkaloids, and flavonoids have the greatest potential for treating UC. It is noteworthy to highlight that a total of 54 natural compounds exhibit their therapeutic effects by modulating Mechanisms I, II, and III.

Conclusion

This review serves as a comprehensive resource for the pharmaceutical industry, researchers, and clinicians seeking novel therapeutic approaches to combat UC. Harnessing the therapeutic potential of these natural compounds may significantly contribute to the improvement of the quality of life of patients with UC and promotion of disease-modifying therapies in the future.

Comprehensive insight into the pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, toxicity, detoxification and extraction of hypaconitine from Aconitum plants

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Hypaconitine (HA), a diterpenoid alkaloid, mainly derived from Aconitum plants such as Acoitum carmichaeli Debx. And Aconitum nagarum Stapf., has recently piqued significant interest among the scientific community given its multifaceted attributes including anti-inflammatory, anticancer, analgesic, and cardio-protective properties.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This review presents a comprehensive exploration of the research advancements regarding the traditional uses, pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, toxicity, and toxicity reduction of HA. It aims to provide a thorough understanding of HA's multifaceted properties and its potential applications in various fields.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A systematic literature search was conducted using several prominent databases including PubMed, Web of Science, NCBI, and CNKI. The search was performed using specific keywords such as "hypaconitine," "heart failure," "anti-inflammatory," "aconite decoction," "pharmacological," "pharmacokinetics," "toxicity," "detoxification or toxicity reduction," and "extraction and isolation." The inclusion of these keywords ensured a comprehensive exploration of relevant studies and enabled the retrieval of valuable information pertaining to the various aspects of HA.

RESULTS

Existing research has firmly established that HA possesses a range of pharmacological effects, encompassing anti-cardiac failure, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and anti-tumor properties. The therapeutic potential of HA is promising, with potential applications in heart failure, ulcerative colitis, cancer, and other diseases. Pharmacokinetic studies suggest that HA exhibits high absorption rates, broad distribution, and rapid metabolism. However, toxic effects of HA on the nerves, heart, and embryos have also been observed. To mitigate these risks, HA needs attenuation before use, with the most common detoxification methods being processing and combined use with other drugs. Extraction methods for HA most commonly include cold maceration, soxhlet reflux extraction, and ultrasonic-assisted extraction. Despite the potential therapeutic benefits of HA, further research is warranted to elucidate its anti-heart failure effects, particularly in vivo, exploring aspects such as in vivo metabolism, distribution, and metabolites. Additionally, the therapeutic effects of HA monomers on inflammation-induced diseases and tumors should be validated in a more diverse range of experimental models, while the mechanisms underlying the therapeutic effects of HA should be investigated in greater detail.

CONCLUSION

This review serves to emphasize the therapeutic potential of HA and highlights the crucial need to address its toxicity concerns before considering clinical application. Further research is required to comprehensively investigate the pharmacological properties of HA, with particular emphasis on its anti-cardiac failure and anti-inflammatory activities. Such research endeavors have the potential to unveil novel treatment avenues for a broad spectrum of diseases.

Toll-like receptors in inflammatory bowel disease: A review of the role of phytochemicals

BACKGROUND

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic inflammation within the gastrointestinal tract with a remarkable impact on patients' quality of life. Toll-like receptors (TLR), as a key contributor of immune system in inflammation, has a critical role in the pathogenesis of IBD and thus, can be a suitable target of therapeutic agents. Medicinal plants have long been considered as a source of bioactive agents for different diseases, including IBD.

PURPOSE

This review discusses current state of the art on the role of plant-derived compounds for the management of IBD with a focus on TLRs.

METHODS

Electronic database including PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus were searched up to January 2023 and all studies in which anticolitis effects of a phytochemical was assessed via modulation of TLRs were considered.

RESULTS

Different categories of phytochemicals, including flavonoids, lignans, alkaloids, terpenes, saccharides, and saponins have demonstrated modulatory effects on TLR in different animal and cell models of bowel inflammation. Flavonoids were the most studied phytochemicals amongst others. Also, TLR4 was the most important type of TLRs which were modulated by phytochemicals. Other mechanisms such as inhibition of pro-inflammatory cytokines, nuclear factor-κB pathway, nitric oxide synthesis pathway, cyclooxygenase-2, lipid peroxidation, as well as induction of endogenous antioxidant defense mechanisms were also reported for phytochemicals in various IBD models.

CONCLUSION

Taken together, a growing body of pre-clinical evidence support the efficacy of herbal compounds for the treatment of IBD via modulation of TLRs. Future clinical studies are recommended to assess the safety and efficacy of these compounds in human.

Safety profile of herbal medicines submitted for marketing authorization in Tanzania: a cross-sectional retrospective study

BACKGROUND

The popular use of herbal medicines necessitates national regulatory authorities to have efficient mechanisms for the control of these products including marketing authorization (MA) and safety follow-up. Herbal medicines like conventional medicines require assessment of efficacy, safety and quality information before MA can be granted. However, the complete proof of safety is mainly based on the history of the long-term traditional use. Herbal medicines can cause adverse reactions due to various factors and thus require clinical trials to ensure their safety. Herbal medicines treatment practices involve combinations of different plants to achieve the desired effect while multiple herbal components have been known to cause herbal-herbal toxicity and interactions due to variety of complex active ingredients in plants. Compliance with regulatory requirements on herbal medicines has been shown to be difficult for manufacturers since different countries have different regulatory requirements with wide variations which results in the MA of very few herbal medicines. Limited studies on dossiers of marketing authorization of herbal medicines have been performed in other countries, with no studies in African regulatory system settings. The aim of this study is to determine the type of safety documentation that is submitted on herbal medicines application dossiers to support MA in Tanzania.

METHODS

A cross-sectional retrospective study of herbal medicines dossiers submitted at the Tanzania Medicines and Medical Devices Authority from 2009 to 2020 was conducted.

RESULTS

As many as 75% of the herbal products applications were combination products made by more than one herbal substance or plant. Out of 84 dossiers subjected to analysis the majority did not provide evidence of preclinical (55%) and clinical safety data (68%). Evidence of safety data in humans was mostly from the literature (70%) and not manufacturers' clinical studies. Quality parameters with safety implications were not included in 48% and 23% of the active herbal substance and finished product specifications, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Analysis of the herbal medicine dossiers submitted showed major deficiencies of safety data to support MA. Manufactures need to provide evidence to support the safety of their products for evidence-based regulatory decisions and to avoid multiple reviews of the applications.

Impact of Oral Probiotics in Amelioration of Immunological and Inflammatory Responses on Experimentally Induced Acute Diverticulitis

Acute diverticulitis is inflammation of a colon diverticulum; it represents a major cause of morbidity and mortality. The alteration of gut microbiota contributes to the promotion of inflammation and the development of acute diverticulitis disease. Probiotics can modify the gut microbiota, so they are considered a promising option for managing diverticulitis disease. This study aimed to investigate the potential protective effect of probiotics, alone or in combination with amoxicillin, on the experimentally induced model of acute diverticulitis disease. Forty-two rats were divided into seven groups as follows: control group: received water and food only; DSS group: received 3% dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) daily for 7 days; LPS group: injected with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) enema at the dose of (4 mg/kg); probiotics group: treated with probiotics (Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium lactis) each of which (4 × 108 CFU suspended in 2 ml distilled water) orally for 7 days; DSS/LPS group: received DSS and LPS; DSS/LPS treated with probiotics group; DSS/LPS treated with probiotics and amoxicillin group. The results revealed that both treatments (probiotics and probiotics-amoxicillin) attenuated DSS/LPS-induced diverticulitis, by restoring the colonic antioxidant status, ameliorating inflammation (significantly reduced TNF-α, interleukins, interferon-γ, myeloperoxidase activity, and C-reactive protein), decreasing apoptosis (through downregulating caspase-3), and reduction of the colon aerobic bacterial count. These probiotic strains were effective in preventing the development of the experimentally induced acute diverticulitis through the anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects and have affected gut microbiota, so they can be considered a potential option in treating acute diverticulitis disease.

Evaluation of the Antioxidant and Anti-Lipoxygenase Activity of Berberis vulgaris L. Leaves, Fruits, and Stem and Their LC MS/MS Polyphenolic Profile

Berberis vulgaris L. is currently widely studied for its antioxidant and chemopreventive properties, especially with regard to the beneficial properties of its fruits. Although the bark and roots have been well known and used in traditional medicine since ancient times, little is known about the other parts of this plant. The aim of the research was to determine the antioxidant and LOX inhibitory activity effects of extracts obtained from the leaves, fruits, and stems. Another aim of the work was to carry out the quantitative and qualitative analysis of phenolic acids, flavonoid aglycones, and flavonoid glycosides. The extracts were obtained with the use of ASE (accelerated solvent extraction). The total content of polyphenols was determined and was found to vary depending on the organ, with the highest amount of polyphenols found in the leaf extracts. The free radical scavenging activity of the extracts was determined spectrophotometrically in relation to the DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) radical, with results ranging from 63.9 mgTE/g for the leaves to 65.2 mgTE/g for the stem. Antioxidant activity was also assessed using the ABTS test. The lowest value was recorded for the barberry fruit (117.9 mg TE/g), and the highest level was found for the barberry leaves (140.5 mgTE/g). The oxygen radical absorbance capacity test (ORAC) showed the lowest value for the stem (167.7 mgTE/g) and the highest level for the leaves (267.8 mgTE/g). The range of the percentage inhibition of LOX was determined as well. The percentage inhibition of the enzyme was positively correlated with the sum of the flavonoids, TPC, TFC, and the content of selected flavonoids. Phenolic acids, flavonoid aglycones, and flavonoid glycosides were determined qualitatively and quantitatively in individual parts of Berberis vulgaris L. The content of phenolic acids, flavonoid aglycones, and flavonoid glycosides was determined with the LC-MS/MS method. The following phenolic acids were quantitatively and qualitatively identified in individual parts of Berberis vulgaris L.: gallic acid, 3-caffeoylquinic acid, protocatechuic acid, 5-caffeoylquinic acid, 4-caffeoylquinic acid, and caffeic acid. The flavonoid glycosides determined were: eleutheroside E, Eriodictyol-7-glucopyranoside, rutin, hyperoside, isoquercitin, luteoloside, narcissoside, naringenin-7-glucoside, isorhamnetin-3-glucoside, afzeline, and quercitrin. Flavonoid aglycones such as catechin, luteolin, quercetin, and eriodictyol were also determined qualitatively and quantitatively.

Diversity-oriented synthesis of diterpenoid alkaloids yields a potent anti-inflammatory agent

BACKGROUND

The diterpenoid alkaloids belong to a highly esteemed group of natural compounds, which display significant biological activities. It is a productive strategy to expand the chemical space of these intriguing natural compounds for drug discovery.

METHODS

We prepared a series of new derivatives bearing diverse skeletons and functionalities from the diterpenoid alkaloids deltaline and talatisamine based on a diversity-oriented synthesis strategy. The anti-inflammatory activity of these derivatives was initially screened and evaluated by the release of nitric oxide (NO), tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α), and interleukin-6 (IL-6) in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-activated RAW264.7 cells. Futhermore, the anti-inflammatory activity of the representative derivative 31a was validated in various inflammatory animal models, including phorbol ester 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA)-induced mice ear edema, LPS-stimulated acute kidney injury, and collagen-induced arthritis (CIA).

RESULTS

It was found that several derivatives were able to suppress the secretion of NO, TNF-α, and IL-6 in LPS-activated RAW264.7 cells. Compound 31a, one of the representative derivatives named as deltanaline, demonstrated the strongest anti-inflammatory effects in LPS-activated macrophages and three different animal models of inflammatory diseases by inhibiting nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB)/mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling and inducing autophagy.

CONCLUSION

Deltanaline is a new structural compound derived from natural diterpenoid alkaloids, which may serve as a new lead compound for the treatment of inflammatory diseases.

Protective effects of amoxicillin and probiotics on colon disorders in an experimental model of acute diverticulitis disease

Acute diverticulitis disease is associated with inflammation and infection in the colon diverticula and may lead to severe morbidity. This study aimed to evaluate and compare the protective effects of amoxicillin antibiotic, either alone or in combination with probiotics (Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium lactis), in a rat model of acute diverticulitis disease. Acute diverticulitis was induced, in albino rats, by adding 3% weight/volume of dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) to the rats’ drinking water; daily for 7 days, in addition to injecting lipopolysaccharide (LPS) enema (4 mg/kg). The impact of treatments was assessed by measuring the physiological and immunological parameters and evaluating colon macroscopic and microscopic lesions. The results showed that both treatments (especially probiotics with amoxicillin) alleviated the adverse effects of DSS and LPS. This was obvious through the modulation of the rats’ body weight and the colon weight-to-length ratio. Also, there was a significant (p < 0.001) decrease in the colon macroscopic lesion score. The pro-inflammatory cytokines [(TNF)-α, (IL)-1β, (IFN)-γ, and (IL)-18]; in the colon tissue; were significantly (p < 0.001) decreased. Also, both treatments significantly ameliorated the elevation of myeloperoxidase activity and C-reactive protein levels, in addition to improving the histopathological alterations in the colon tissue. In conclusion, amoxicillin and probiotics–amoxicillin were effective in preventing the development of experimentally induced acute diverticulitis, through their anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects. Furthermore, this study has explored the role of probiotics in preventing DSS/LPS-induced acute diverticulitis, so it can be applied as a promising treatment option for acute diverticulitis disease.

Fuzi-Lizhong Decoction Alleviates Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease by Blocking TLR4/MyD88/TRAF6 Signaling

Background

Fuzi-Lizhong decoction (FLD) derives from the ancient Chinese Pharmacopoeia and has been clinically used for years. The present study aimed to investigate the activities and underlying mechanisms of FLD against nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).

Methods

In vivo studies were conducted by inducing NAFLD in rats with a high-fat diet, and in vitro studies were performed on HL-7702 cells treated with oleic and linoleic acids. Total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), and blood glucose (Glu) levels were detected using an automatic biochemical analyzer. The expression of IL-2, IL-6, and TNF-α in sera and cell culture supernatants was measured by ELISA. The mRNA and protein levels of TLR4, MyD88, and TRAF6 were measured in liver tissue and HL-7702 cells using reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blot.

Results

FLD significantly reduced the TC, TG, Glu, FFA, IL-2, IL-6, and TNF-α levels in NAFLD rats and HL-7702 cells. Analysis of liver lipid content by Oil Red O staining revealed a significant increase in hepatic lipid accumulation in rats with NAFLD, but this lipid accumulation was reversed by FLD treatment. In addition, the mRNA expression levels of TLR4, MyD88, TRAF6, and NF-κB p65 as well as the protein levels of TLR4, MyD88, TRAF6, and NF-κB p65 were decreased after FLD treatment. FLD significantly reduced inflammation and improved collagen accumulation in vivo and in vitro by inhibiting the activation of the TLR4/MyD88/TRAF6 signaling pathway.

Conclusions

FLD exerted potent protective effects against NAFLD via TLR4/MyD88/TRAF6 signaling. These findings provide novel insights into the mechanisms whereby this compound acts as an anti-inflammatory agent and highlight the potential application of FLD in the treatment of acute liver failure (ALF).

Honokiol alleviates ulcerative colitis by targeting PPAR-γ-TLR4-NF-κB signaling and suppressing gasdermin-D-mediated pyroptosis in vivo and in vitro

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic, idiopathic relapsing inflammatory bowel disease. Honokiol is a major active component of the traditional Chinese medicinal herb Magnolia officinalis, which has been widely used in traditional prescriptions to treat tumors, inflammation, and gastrointestinal disorders. In this study, we investigated the ability of this polyphenolic compound to suppress UC in mice and the possible regulatory mechanism. A mouse model of UC induced with dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) in 40 male C57BL/6J mice was used for the in vivo study, and in vitro experiments were performed in mouse RAW264.7 macrophages. Lipopolysaccharide was used to induce the inflammatory response. The mouse bodyweights, stool consistency, and bleeding were determined and the disease activity indices calculated. RAW264.7 macrophages were cultured with or without either honokiol or lipopolysaccharide. Gene and protein expression was analyzed with RT-PCR and western blotting, respectively. GW6471 and GW9662 were used to interrupt the transcription of peroxisome proliferator activated receptor alpha (PPAR-α) and peroxisome proliferator activated receptor gamma (PPAR-γ). Both the in vivo and in vitro experimental results showed that the oral administration of honokiol markedly attenuated the severity of UC by reducing the inflammatory signals and restoring the integrity of the colon. Honokiol dramatically reduced the proinflammatory cytokines TNF-α, IL6, IL1β, and IFN-γ in mice with DSS-induced UC. It also upregulated PPAR-γ expression, and downregulated the TLR4-NF-κB signaling pathway. Moreover, honokiol inhibited gasdermin-D-mediated cell pyroptosis. These findings demonstrate for the first time that honokiol exerts a strong anti-inflammatory effect in a mouse model of UC, and that its underlying mechanism is associated with the activation of the PPAR-γ-TLR4-NF-κB signaling pathway and gasdermin-D-mediated macrophage pyroptosis. Therefore, honokiol may be a promising new drug for the clinical management of UC.

Yeast Microcapsule Mediated Natural Products Delivery for Treating Ulcerative Colitis through Anti-Inflammatory and Regulation of Macrophage Polarization

The common and frequent disease, ulcerative colitis (UC), causes serious physical and mental distress to patients. M2 macrophages have proven to play a role in anti-inflammation, which is a new potential target for UC therapy. In this study, we designed a safe and macrophages-targeting oral drug delivery system. Natural products, berberine (BBR), and Epigallocatechin Gallate (EGCG) with anti-inflammatory activity were assembled and encapsulated into yeast microcapsule (YM), generating therapeutic system BBR/MPN@YM. BBR and EGCG exhibited synergistic effects against UC through the effect of antioxidation. Through the interaction between β-1,3-d-glucan on the surface of YM and dectin-1 receptors on macrophages, BBR/MPN@YM could be effectively transported to inflammation parts and internalized into macrophages, avoiding gastric degradation. In the in vivo UC mouse model, BBR/MPN@YM could transform M1 macrophages into anti-inflammatory M2 macrophages, thus exerting specific anti-inflammatory effects. Therefore, this BBR/MPN@YM targeted oral drug delivery system provided a new macrophages-targeting strategy for the clinical treatment of UC.

Mechanism of Fructus Mume Pills Underlying Their Protective Effects in Rats with Acetic Acid-Inducedulcerative Colitis via the Regulation of Inflammatory Cytokines and the VEGF-PI3K/Akt-eNOS Signaling Pathway

Background

Fructus mume pills (FMPs) have been clinically proven to be effective for treating ulcerative colitis (UC). However, the therapeutic and protective mechanisms have not been fully studied.

Aim

We aimed to explore the mechanism of FMPs in an acetic acid (AA)-induced ulcerative colitis rat model.

Methods

The targets, GO terms, and KEGG pathways for the FMPs and UC were screened and constructed using network pharmacology. A possible mechanism was verified in a 4% AA-induced colitis rat model. Colitis activity and state were evaluated using the disease activity index, and colon ulceration and intestinal mucosal damage were determined by histopathological observation through HE, AB-PAS, and Masson pathological staining. The concentrations of TNF-α, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, MPO, MMP9, CXCR1, eNOS, and VEGF were measured to evaluate vascular permeability effects.

Results

The network pharmacology results showed 108 active compounds, and 139 FMP-related targets were identified. Twenty-nine targets were identified for FMPs against UC, which included MMP9, MMP3, ESR1, PTGS1, PPARA, MPO, and NOS2. A total of 1,536 GO terms and 41 pathways were associated with FMP treatment of UC. The pharmacological evaluation showed that FMPs attenuated inflammation in AA-induced colitis by reducing the serum concentrations of TNF-α, IL-6, IL-8, and IL-10 and the colonic concentrations of MPO, MMP9, and CXCR1. FMPs ameliorated hyperpermeability by reducing the colonic VEGF and eNOS concentrations. FMPs also significantly decreased the VEGFA, VEGFR2, Src, and eNOS protein expressions in colon tissue through the VEGF-PI3K/Akt-eNOS signaling pathway.

Conclusion

These results suggest that FMPs control UC inflammation by regulating inflammatory cytokine concentrations. FMPs alleviate AA-induced UC by regulating microvascular permeability through the VEGF-PI3K/Akt-eNOS signaling pathway.

Current Advances in Coptidis Rhizoma for Gastrointestinal and Other Cancers

Cancer is a serious disease with an increasing number of reported cases and high mortality worldwide. Gastrointestinal cancer defines a group of cancers in the digestive system, e.g., liver cancer, colorectal cancer, and gastric cancer. Coptidis Rhizoma (C. Rhizoma; Huanglian, in Chinese) is a classical Chinese medicinal botanical drug for the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders and has been shown to have a wide variety of pharmacological activity, including antifungal, antivirus, anticancer, antidiabetic, hypoglycemic, and cardioprotective effects. Recent studies on C. Rhizoma present significant progress on its anticancer effects and the corresponding mechanisms as well as its clinical applications. Herein, keywords related to C. Rhizoma, cancer, gastrointestinal cancer, and omics were searched in PubMed and the Web of Science databases, and more than three hundred recent publications were reviewed and discussed. C. Rhizoma extract along with its main components, berberine, palmatine, coptisine, magnoflorine, jatrorrhizine, epiberberine, oxyepiberberine, oxyberberine, dihydroberberine, columbamine, limonin, and derivatives, are reviewed. We describe novel and classic anticancer mechanisms from various perspectives of pharmacology, pharmaceutical chemistry, and pharmaceutics. Researchers have transformed the chemical structures and drug delivery systems of these components to obtain better efficacy and bioavailability of C. Rhizoma. Furthermore, C. Rhizoma in combination with other drugs and their clinical application are also summarized. Taken together, C. Rhizoma has broad prospects as a potential adjuvant candidate against cancers, making it reasonable to conduct additional preclinical studies and clinical trials in gastrointestinal cancer in the future.

Cocultivation of Chinese prescription and intestine microbiota: SJZD alleviated the major symptoms of IBS-D subjects by tuning neurotransmitter metabolism

OBJECTIVE

Diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome (IBS-D) is a recurrent and common disease featuring dysbiotic intestinal microbiota, with limited treatments. Si-Jun-Zi Decoction (SJZD), a classic Chinese prescription, has been extensively used for IBS-D. This work aimed to explore the ex vivo interactions of SJZD and IBS-D's intestinal microbiota.

METHODS

Five samples of intestinal microbiota collected from IBS-D volunteers and five age-matched healthy controls were recruited from the Affiliated Hospital, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). A representative mixture of intestinal microbiota was composed of an equal proportion of these fecal samples. To simulate the clinical interaction, this microbiota was cocultivated with SJZD at clinical dosage in an anaerobic incubator at 37°C for 35 h. Microbiota and metabolic alterations were assessed by 16S rRNA gene sequencing in the V3/V4 regions and a nontargeted metabolome platform, respectively.

RESULTS

After being cocultivated with SJZD, the dysbiotic intestine microbiota from IBS-D subjects was largely restored to those of the healthy controls. A total of 624 differentially expressed metabolites were detected by nontargeted metabolomics, of which 16 biomarkers were identified. These metabolites were then enriched into 11 pathways by KEGG, particularly those involved in neurotransmitter metabolism responses for the major symptom of IBS-D. Correlation analysis of bacterial metabolites demonstrated a synergistic pattern of neurotransmitter metabolism between Streptococcus and E. Shigella.

CONCLUSION

SJZD rescued the dysbiotic intestinal microbiota and ameliorated the dysfunctional neurotransmitter metabolism involved in IBS-D's major symptoms.

Role of Barrier Integrity and Dysfunctions in Maintaining the Healthy Gut and Their Health Outcomes

Mucosal surface layers are the critical borders throughout epithelial membranes. These epithelial cells segregate luminal material from external environments. However, mucosal linings are also accountable for absorbing nutrients and requiring specific barrier permeability. These functional acts positioned the mucosal epithelium at the epicenter of communications concerning the mucosal immune coordination and foreign materials, such as dietary antigens and microbial metabolites. Current innovations have revealed that external stimuli can trigger several mechanisms regulated by intestinal mucosal barrier system. Crucial constituents of this epithelial boundary are physical intercellular structures known as tight junctions (TJs). TJs are composed of different types transmembrane proteins linked with cytoplasmic adaptors which helps in attachment to the adjacent cells. Disruption of this barrier has direct influence on healthy or diseased condition, as barrier dysfunctions have been interrelated with the initiation of inflammation, and pathogenic effects following metabolic complications. In this review we focus and overview the TJs structure, function and the diseases which are able to influence TJs during onset of disease. We also highlighted and discuss the role of phytochemicals evidenced to enhance the membrane permeability and integrity through restoring TJs levels.

Exploring the Mechanism of Berberine Intervention in Ulcerative Colitis from the Perspective of Inflammation and Immunity Based on Systemic Pharmacology

Background

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic nonspecific inflammatory disease of the colon and rectum. Recent studies found that berberine had effects on inflammatory diseases and immune diseases.

Methods

The PharmMapper database was used to predict the berberine potential target and GeneCards database and OMIM database were utilized to collect UC genes. The Cytoscape software was used to construct and analyze the networks and DAVID was utilized to perform enrichment analysis. Then, animal experiments were performed to validate the prediction results. The experimental rats were randomly divided into normal group (control group), model group, and berberine group. The general condition, body weight, gross morphology of colon tissue, and colonic mucosal damage index (CMDI) score were observed. The pathological changes of colon tissue were observed by H&E staining. The levels of serum interleukin-1β (IL-1β), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and IL-4 were detected by ELISA. The expressions of IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-4 protein in colon tissue were detected by immunohistochemistry.

Results

A total of 211 Berberine's potential targets and 210 UC genes were obtained. The enrichment analysis showed that berberine may regulate inflammation, inflammatory cytokines, and their mediated inflammation signal pathways such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), rheumatoid arthritis, cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction, TNF, T cell receptor, Toll-like receptor, and JAK/STAT signaling pathway. Compared with the model group, the body mass of rats in the berberine group was significantly increased (P < 0.05); the general morphology and pathological changes of colon tissue were significantly improved; CMDI score, serum and colon tissue IL-1β, TNF-α content, and protein expression were decreased significantly (P < 0.05); and IL-4 content and protein expression increased significantly (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Berberine can interfere with UC through related biological processes and signal pathways related to inflammation and immunity. In-depth exploration of the mechanism of berberine in the treatment of UC will provide a basis for clinical application.

The effects of Fushen Granule on the composition and function of the gut microbiota during Peritoneal Dialysis-Related Peritonitis

BACKGROUND

Peritoneal dialysis (PD) is an acknowledged treatment for patients with irreversible kidney failure. The treatment usually causes peritoneal dialysis-related peritonitis (PDRP), a common complication of PD that can lead to inadequate dialysis, gastrointestinal dysfunction, and even death. Recent studies indicated that Fushen Granule (FSG), a Chinese herbal formula, improves the treatment of PD. However, the mechanism of how FSG plays its role in the improvement is still unclear. Gut microbiota has been closely related to the development of various diseases. We carried out a randomized controlled trial to assess whether FSG can modulate the gut microbiota during PDRP treatment.

METHODS

Forty-two PDRP patients were recruited into the clinical trial, and they were randomly divided into control(CON), probiotics(PRO) or Fushen granule group(FSG). To check whether FSG improve the PD treatment, we assessed the clinical parameters, including albumin(ALB), hemoglobin(HGB), blood urea nitrogen(BUN) and creatinine(CR). Fecal samples were collected before hospitalization and discharge, and stored at -80°C within 1 hour. And we assessed the microbial population and function by applying the 16S rRNA gene sequencing and functional enrichment analysis.

RESULTS

Compared to control group, ALB is improved in both probiotics and FSG groups, while HGB is increased but BUN and CR is reduced in FSG group. Sequencing of 16S rRNA genes revealed that FSG and PRO affected the composition of the microbial community. FSG significantly increased a abundant represented by Bacteroides, Megamonas and Rothia, which was significantly correlated with the improvements in carbohydrate and amino acid metabolism.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrates that FSG ameliorates the nutritional status and improves the quality of life by enriching beneficial bacteria associated with metabolism. These results indicate that FSG as alternative medicine is a promising treatment for patients with PDRP.

Comprehensive Review of Phytochemical Constituents, Pharmacological Properties, and Clinical Applications of Prunus mume

Prunus mume is one of the most ancient medicinal herbs and health foods commonly used in Asian countries. It is widely used as a constituent of many medicinal preparations and as a food ingredient for its beneficial health effects. In this review, we retrieved reports from PubMed, embase, Scopus, and SciFinder databases, to collect extensive scientific evidence on the phytochemical constituents, pharmacological properties, and clinical applications of Prunus mume. The literature review revealed that approximately 192 compounds have been isolated from different parts of the plant, and their molecular structures have been identified. The pharmacological properties of the plant, including anti-diabetic, liver-protective, antitumor, antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities, as well as their underlying mechanisms, have been clarified by in vitro and in vivo studies. Clinical studies, although very limited, have been highlighted in this review to provide a reference for further exploration on therapeutic applications of the plant.

Synergistic effect of Betulinic acid, Apigenin and Skimmianine (BASk) in high cholesterol diet rabbit: Involvement of CD36-TLR2 signaling pathway

BACKGROUND

Progression of chronic inflammatory disease, atherosclerosis is a multifactorial process. Cluster of differentiation 36 (CD36) mediated downstream activation of Toll like receptor 2 (TLR2) and NLRP3 (Nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-like receptor family pyrin domain-containing 3) inflammasome signaling pathway actively participates during chronic inflammation. Nowadays, synergistic combinations of bioactive compounds attained priority in the field of drug discovery and development as therapeutic agents. An investigation regarding the anti-inflammatory potential of a novel drug formulation, BASk which is a combination of three bioactive compounds Betulinic acid (B):Apigenin (A):Skimmianine (Sk) remains the focus area of this research study. We also elucidate the molecular mechanism behind the therapeutic potential of BASk through CD36 mediated activation TLR2-NLRP3 signaling pathway.

METHODS

OxLDL induced hPBMCs used to screen out a suitable combination of BASk via MTT, COX, LOX, NOS and MPO assays. Hypercholesterolemia is induced in rabbits by supplementing with 1% cholesterol + 0.5% cholic acid and treated with BASk (2:2:1) (5 mg/Kg) and atorvastatin (10 mg/Kg) for 60 days. CD36, TLR2, NLRP3, NFκB, cytokines, endothelial damage were quantified by reverse transcription, real time PCR, ELISA, flow cytometry and histopathology.

RESULTS

hPBMCs pretreated with BASk at 2:2:1 ratio significantly decreased the activities of COX, 15-LOX, NOS and MPO on OxLDL induction than quercetin. Down regulation of CD36, TLR2, MyD88, TRAF6 by BASk further buttressed NLRP3 inflammasome activation mediated by the transcription factor NFκB. This is in correlation with the effect of BASk by balancing pro (IL-1β, IL-18) and anti-inflammatory (TGF-β) mediators in the aortic endothelial cells.

CONCLUSION

BASk exerted its anti-inflammatory potential by reducing pro-inflammatory mediators during cholesterol supplementation via down regulating CD36 mediated TLR2 - NLRP3 inflammasome cascade. This deciphers a synergistic combination named BASk (2:2:1) as a novel drug formulation against chronic inflammatory disease, atherosclerosis.

Inhibition of UDP-glucuronosyltransferases by different furoquinoline alkaloids

Herbs are often administered in combination with therapeutic drugs, raising the possibility for herb-drug interactions (HDIs). Furoquinoline alkaloids are found in Rutaceae plants, which are structurally similar and have many medicinal properties. This study aims to investigate the inhibition of four furoquinoline alkaloids on the activity of UDP-glucuronosyltransferases (UGTs).The recombinant UGTs-catalyzed glucuronidation metabolism of 4-methylumbelliferone (4-MU) was utilized to investigate the inhibition potential. Inhibition type and parameters were determined, and in silico docking was employed to elucidate the inhibition difference of furoquinoline alkaloids towards UGTs.Dictamine, haplopine, γ-fagarine and skimmianine strongly inhibited UGT1A3, UGT1A7, UGT1A9 and UGT2B4, respectively. Among them, dictamnine inhibited more than 70% of the four UGTs. Inhibition kinetics determination showed that they all exerted competitive inhibition, and the inhibition kinetic constant (K_i) was determined to be 8.3, 7.2, 3.7 and 33.9 μM, respectively. In vitro-in vivo extrapolation (IVIVE) was employed to demonstrate the inhibition possibility for four alkaloids. Skimmianine was proved to be more suitable for clinical application. In silico docking study indicated that the hydrophobic interactions played a key role in the inhibition of furoquinoline alkaloids towards three of the four UGTs. In conclusion, monitoring the interactions between furoquinoline alkaloids and drugs mainly undergoing UGTs-catalyzed metabolism is necessary.

Protective effects of iridoid glycosides on acute colitis via inhibition of the inflammatory response mediated by the STAT3/NF-кB pathway

Morroniside and loganin are iridoid glycosides extracted from Cornus officinalis, a plant species widely used in traditional Chinese medicine. However, the anti-inflammatory effects of morroniside and loganin in colitis are barely understood. The aim of the present study was to explore the effects of morroniside and loganin on the dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-induced murine model of colitis and an LPS-induced colorectal cancer (CRC) cell inflammation model, and to clarify the underlying mechanisms. We found that morroniside and loganin were able to ameliorate clinical features, including disease activity index (DAI), histological inflammation score and periodic acid-Schiff staining (PAS). In the mouse model, morroniside and loganin treatment increased expression of tight junction proteins (TJs) and decreased pro-inflammatory cytokine production. Moreover, our findings showed that the expression of p-STAT3 and p-p65 were suppressed compared to the disease group. In in vitro experiments, treatment with morroniside and loganin had no obvious effects on proliferative activity in HCT116 cells and HIEC-6 cells. Expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines was inhibited by morroniside and loganin treatment in comparison with the LPS-treated group. Taken together, morroniside and loganin have beneficial effects on colitis in vivo and are anti-inflammatory in vitro. Possible mechanisms of the anti-inflammatory response may include blockade of the STAT3/NF-κB pathway.

Berberine Administration in Treatment of Colitis: A Review

Berberine (Brb) is one of the well-known naturally occurring compounds exclusively found in Berberis vulgaris and other members of this family, such as Berberis aristata, Berberis aroatica, and Berberis aquifolium. This plant-derived natural compound has a variety of therapeutic impacts, including anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, and anti-tumor. Multiple studies have demonstrated that Brb has great anti-inflammatory activity and is capable of reducing the levels of proinflammatory cytokines, while it enhances the concentrations of anti-inflammatory cytokines, making it suitable for the treatment of inflammatory disorders. Colitis is an inflammatory bowel disease with chronic nature. Several factors are involved in the development of colitis and it appears that inflammation and oxidative stress are the most important ones. With respect to the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects of Brb, its administration seems to be beneficial in the treatment of colitis. In the present review, the protective effects of Brb in colitis treatment and its impact on molecular pathways are discussed.

The Structure Features and Improving Effects of Polysaccharide from Astragalus membranaceus on Antibiotic-Associated Diarrhea

Astragalus membranaceus (Astragalus) is often used as a medical and food resource in China. The present study was designed to investigate the features and effects of polysaccharide from Astragalus membranaceus (WAP) on rats with antibiotic-associated diarrhea (AAD). WAP was mainly composed of glucose, galactose, arabinose and glacturonic acid, with glucan, arabinogalactan and RG-I regions, and it showed loosely irregular sheet conformation. WAP decreased the inflammatory cell infiltration of colon in AAD rats, increased propionate and butyrate production, improved metabolic levels, adjusted the diversity and composition of gut microbiota, increased the relative abundance of Pseudomonas, and decreased the relative abundance of Allobaculum and Coprococcus. In conclusion, WAP contained different types of polysaccharide regions and sheet three-dimensional conformation, while it ameliorated AAD by recovering the colon structure, adjusting the gut microbiota, and improving the SCFAs levels. The results can provide some data basis for natural products to alleviate the side effects related to antibiotics.

Potential synergic mechanism of Wutou-Gancao herb-pair by inhibiting efflux transporter P-glycoprotein

Wutou-Gancao herb-pair is extensively used to attenuate the toxicity and enhance the efficacy of aconite. In this study, potential synergic mechanism of the herb pair was investigated by utilizing multiple approaches. In silico and in vitro Caco-2 cell models were applied to study the potential binding mode of bioactive ingredients existing in liquorice with P-glycoprotein (P-gp), as well as the inhibition effects on P-gp. Additionally, anti-inflammatory activity of aconitine (AC) combined with active ingredients of liquorice, as well as pharmacokinetic patterns of AC after co-administration was investigated. Anti-inflammatory effect of AC (1 mg/kg) in rats was enhanced in combination with bioactive ingredients of liquorice (10 mg/kg). In the meanwhile, the exposure of AC in vivo was altered, in terms of Cmax and AUC. For instance, the Cmax and AUC were increased to 1.9 and 1.3 folds, respectively, when used in combination with liquiritigenin. The in silico study revealed the potential binding mode with outward facing conformation of P-gp. The resulting data obtained from transport of rhodamine-123 (Rh-123) across Caco-2 cell monolayer further indicated that the function of P-gp was inhibited by chemicals in liquorice. The synergic effect was therefore proposed to be attributed to inhibition of P-gp by liquorice since AC has been demonstrated to be the substrate of P-gp. The resuls revealed that potential synergic mechanism of Wutou-Gancao herb-pair by inhibiting function of key efflux transporter P-gp to enhance the exposure of AC in systematic circulation, and further the anti-inflammatory effect, which helps clarify the compatibility rationale of these two herbs.

Rapid Identification of Berberine Metabolites in Rat Plasma by UHPLC-Q-TOF-MS

In this study, a reliable and rapid method based on ultra high performance liquid chromatography combined with quadrupole time-of-flight tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-Q-TOF-MS) technology and MetabolitePilot^MT software was developed for berberine metabolites identification in rat plasma. The chemical structures of the metabolites and their product ions were tentatively characterized or identified according to the molecular weights detected and MS/MS data. In all, nine metabolites, including M1 (demethyleneberberine, C₁₉H₁₈NO₄, m/z 324), M2 (glucuronic acid-conjugated demethyleneberberine, C₂₅H₂₆NO₁₀, m/z 500), M3 (diglucuronide-conjugated demethyleneberberine, C₃₁H₃₄NO₁₆, m/z 676), M4 (glucuronic acid-conjugated jatrorrhizine or glucuronic acid-conjugated columbamine, C₂₆H₂₈NO₁₀, m/z 514), M5 (berberrubine or thalifendine, C₁₉H₁₆NO₄, m/z 322), M6 (glucuronic acid-conjugated berberrubine or glucuronic acid-conjugated thalifendine, C₂₅H₂₄NO₁₀, m/z 498), M7 (sulfite-conjugated berberrubine or sulfite-conjugated thalifendine, C₁₉H₁₆NO₇S, m/z 402), M8 (dihydroxy berberrubine or dihydroxy thalifendine, C₁₉H₁₆NO₆, m/z 354) and M9 (dihydroxy berberine, C₂₀H₁₈NO₆, m/z 368) were tentatively characterized or identified. Several new deposition patterns and three new metabolites (M7, M8 and M9) are reported in this paper for the first time. This work not only provides significant insights into the understanding of the metabolic pathways of berberine, but also contributes in identifying potential active drug candidates from the metabolites.

Tight Junction in the Intestinal Epithelium: Its Association with Diseases and Regulation by Phytochemicals

The intestine plays an essential role in integrating immunity and nutrient digestion and absorption. Adjacent intestinal epithelia form tight junctions (TJs) that are essential to the function of the physical intestinal barrier, regulating the paracellular movement of various substances including ions, solutes, and water across the intestinal epithelium. Studies have shown that TJ dysfunction is highly associated with metabolic and inflammatory diseases. Thus, molecular and nutritional factors that improve TJ activity have gained attention in the pharmaceutical and medicinal fields. This review focuses on the association between TJ and diverse pathological conditions, as well as various molecular and nutritional interventions designed to boost TJ integrity.

The protective effects of magnolol on acute trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid‑induced colitis in rats

The present study aimed to investigate the protective effects of magnolol on acute 2,4,6-trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (TNBS)-induced colitis, and its underlying mechanisms. Experimental colitis was induced by intracolonic administration of TNBS/ethanol into rats. The model rats were randomly assigned into groups: TNBS, magnolol (high, medium and low doses), and salazosulfapyridine (positive control). All intervention regimens were administered by oral gavage, once a day for 7 consecutive days, 24 h after colitis induction. Histological and biochemical changes in colonic inflammation were evaluated by hematoxylin and eosin and immunohistochemistry, respectively. Rats treated with all doses of magnolol exhibited decreased colonic myeloperoxidase activity (P<0.05 vs. TNBS), reduced serum levels of proinflammatory cytokines [including interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-17], and downregulated Toll-like receptor-4 (TLR-4) mRNA expression. Histological analysis revealed that medium and high doses of magnolol conferred an anti-inflammatory effect, which was indicated by a decrease in disease activity index, an increase in thymus index, and downregulation of nuclear factor (NF)-κB p65 mRNA and TLR-4 protein expression. However, only high-dose magnolol significantly ameliorated the elevated colon weight/length ratio. The results of the present study indicate that magnolol exerts protective effects against acute TNBS-induced colitis in rats, and the TLR-4/NF-κB signaling pathway-mediated inhibitory effect on inflammatory cascades may contribute to the protective activity of magnolol.

Berberis vulgaris and its constituent berberine as antidotes and protective agents against natural or chemical toxicities

Berberis vulgaris L (B. vulgaris) and its main constituent berberine have been used in traditional medicine for a long time. This medicinal plant and berberine have many properties that have attracted the attention of researchers over the time. According to several studies, B. vulgaris and berberine exhibited anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anticonvulsant, antidepressant, anti-Alzheimer, anti-cancer, anti-arrhythmic, antiviral, antibacterial and anti-diabetic effects in both in vitro and invivo experiments. In regard to many reports on protective effects of B. vulgaris and berberine on natural and chemical toxins, in the current review article, the inhibitory effects of these compounds against natural, industrial, environmental and chemical toxicities with focus on cellular mechanism have been categorized. It has been mentioned that berberine could ameliorate toxicity of chemical toxins in brain, heart, kidney, liver and lung in part through antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, modulation of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) signaling pathways.

The effect of menthol on acute experimental colitis in rats

Menthol is an aromatic compound with high antiinflammatory activity. The purpose of the current research is to investigate the effectiveness of menthol on acetic acid induced acute colitis in rats. Animals were injected with menthol (20 and 50 and 80mg/kg, i.p.) 24h prior to induction of colitis for 3 consecutive days. Menthol at medium and higher doses similar to dexamethasone as a reference drug significantly reduced body weight loss, macroscopic damage score, ulcer area, colon weight, colon length and improved hematocrit in rats with colitis. The histopathological examination also confirmed anti-colitic effects of menthol. Menthol also reduced significantly the colonic levels of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin 1β (IL-1β), interleukin 6 (IL-6) and myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity in inflamed colons. Thus, the findings of the current study provide evidence that menthol may be beneficial in patients suffering from acute ulcerative colitis.

Recent Trends in Pharmacological Activity of Alkaloids in Animal Colitis: Potential Use for Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic and disrupted inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract. IBD have two main conditions, Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, and have been extensively investigated in recent years. Antibiotics derived from salicylates, steroids, immunosuppressors, and anti-TNF therapy are part of the therapeutic arsenal for IBD. However, very often patients stop responding to treatments over the time. In this context, searching for alternative agents is crucial for IBD clinical management. Natural products derived from medicinal plants are an interesting therapeutic alternative, since several studies have proven effective treatments in animal models of intestinal inflammation. Several naturally occurring compounds are potent antioxidants, both as free radical scavengers and as modulators of antioxidant enzymes expression and activity. A number of natural compounds have also been proved to inhibit the release of proinflammatory cytokines, decreasing the activation of nuclear factor κB (NF-κB), which is important to the inflammatory response in IBD. The alkaloids are substances of a very diverse class of plant secondary metabolites; an extensive list of biological activities has been attributed to alkaloids, such as being anticholinergic, antitumor, diuretic, antiviral, antihypertensive, antiulcer, analgesic, and anti-inflammatory. In the present work, studies on the pharmacological activity of alkaloids in experimental models of IBD were reviewed.

Understanding the Molecular Mechanisms of the Interplay Between Herbal Medicines and Gut Microbiota

Herbal medicines (HMs) are much appreciated for their significant contribution to human survival and reproduction by remedial and prophylactic management of diseases. Defining the scientific basis of HMs will substantiate their value and promote their modernization. Ever-increasing evidence suggests that gut microbiota plays a crucial role in HM therapy by complicated interplay with HM components. This interplay includes such activities as: gut microbiota biotransforming HM chemicals into metabolites that harbor different bioavailability and bioactivity/toxicity from their precursors; HM chemicals improving the composition of gut microbiota, consequently ameliorating its dysfunction as well as associated pathological conditions; and gut microbiota mediating the interactions (synergistic and antagonistic) between the multiple chemicals in HMs. More advanced experimental designs are recommended for future study, such as overall chemical characterization of gut microbiota-metabolized HMs, direct microbial analysis of HM-targeted gut microbiota, and precise gut microbiota research model development. The outcomes of such research can further elucidate the interactions between HMs and gut microbiota, thereby opening a new window for defining the scientific basis of HMs and for guiding HM-based drug discovery.

Cissampelos sympodialis Eichl. (Menispermaceae), a medicinal plant, presents antimotility and antidiarrheal activity in vivo

Background

Cissampelos sympodialis (Menispermaceae), known as “Milona” has a specific verified medicinal use for the treatment of diarrhea and respiratory tract diseases. This work aims to evaluate the antimotility and antidiarrheal activity of crude ethanolic extract (EtOHE-Cs), and the total alkaloid fraction (TAF-Cs) obtained from aerial parts of C. sympodialis.

Methods

Normal intestinal transit and gastric emptying were used to evaluate antimotility activity. Castor oil-induced diarrhea and castor oil-induced enteropooling were used to evaluate antidiarrheal activity.

Results

The results indicated that EtOHE-Cs has no antimotility activity, but did demonstrate antidiarrheal activity (at 500 mg/kg), and this activity is related to reduction of intestinal fluid accumulation. The TAF-Cs (at 250 and 500 mg/kg) showed antidiarrheal activity by reducing gastrointestinal motility (gastric emptying and normal intestinal transit).

Conclusions

The antidiarrheal activity of C. sympodialis can be attributed to the chemical compounds already isolated and quantified in this species, mainly alkaloids.

Combinatorial Intervention with Mesenchymal Stem Cells and Granulocyte Colony-Stimulating Factor in a Rat Model of Ulcerative Colitis

BACKGROUND

Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells sometimes improve symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease.

AIM

To test the effects of combined granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) and MSC therapy in a rat model of ulcerative colitis (UC).

METHODS

Seventy-two rats with TNBS-induced UC were divided into control or treatment groups: control (no disease and no treatment), no treatment (model), 5-aminosalicylate (5-ASA) enema, or MSCs (labeled with BrdU) with (MSC/GCSF) or without (MSC) G-CSF, and G-CSF alone (GCSF). On days 14 and 28 post-treatment, macroscopic and histological appearances were assessed and the disease activity index (DAI) scored to evaluate the severity of disease. BrdU-labeled MSCs were identified by immunofluorescence to confirm transplantation and their location. The inflammatory profile of each group was evaluated by measuring expression of nuclear NF-κB p65, serum TNF-α, and IL-10 and by activity of mucosal myeloperoxidase (MPO).

RESULTS

Rats receiving MSC and G-CSF combination therapy had increased recruitment of MSCs to the colonic mucosa compared with rats receiving MSC transplantation alone. On day 28, the DAI, MPO activity, serum TNF-α and IL-10 levels, and NF-κB p65 expression in the combination therapy group were significantly lower compared to animals receiving no treatment, MSCs alone, or G-CSF alone (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Intravenously transplanted MSCs migrate and distribute to the colon to effectively alleviate the symptoms of UC, while G-CSF enhances this effect via an anti-inflammatory effect and improvement in the pathologic features of UC. G-CSF may be a promising therapeutic regulator of MSCs that can improve therapeutic outcomes in patients with UC.

Protective effect of cavidine on acetic acid-induced murine colitis via regulating antioxidant, cytokine profile and NF-κB signal transduction pathways

Ulcerative colitis is an inflammatory disorder characterized by neutrophils infiltration, oxidative stress, upregulation of pro-inflammatory mediators and cytokines. Cavidine possesses anti-inflammatory activity and has been used to treat various inflammatory diseases but its effect on ulcerative colitis has not been previously explored. The present study aims to evaluate the effect of cavidine on acetic acid-induced ulcerative colitis in mice. Colitis mice induced by intra-rectal acetic acid (5%, v/v) administration received cavidine (1, 5 and 10mg/kg, i.g) or sulfasalazine (500mg/kg, i.g) for seven consecutive days. After euthanized by cervical dislocation, colonic segments of mice were excised for clinical, macroscopic, biochemical and histopathological examinations. Results suggested treatment with cavidine significantly decreased mortality rate, body weight loss, disease activity index (DAI), wet colon weight, macroscopic and histological score when compared with that of acetic acid-induced controls. In addition, administration of cavidine effectively modulated expressions of MPO, GSH, SOD and MDA. Furthermore cavidine inhibited the level of TNF-α and IL-6 in the serum and colon tissue in response to the regulation of p65 NF-κB protein expression. All these results indicated cavidine exerts marked protective effect in experimental colitis, possibly by regulating the expression of oxygen metabolites, NF-κB and subsequent pro-inflammatory cytokines production.

Active components alignment of Gegenqinlian decoction protects ulcerative colitis by attenuating inflammatory and oxidative stress

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Gegenqinlian Decoction (GQD) has been used as a folk remedy for gastrointestinal diseases in China over thousands of years. It has significant treatment efficacy for patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). We analyzed and showed that the active components alignment of Gegenqinlian Decoction (ACAG) possesses broad pharmacological effects including analgesic, antipyretic, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiviral and antidiarrhea, as well as the effect of adjusting gastrointestinal function in our preliminary experiments. However, the exact molecular mechanisms on how ACAG exerts these pharmacological effects still remain elusive. In the present study, the plausible pharmacological effects of ACAG on 2,4,6-trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (TNBS)-induced colitis were investigated.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats with TNBS/ethanol-induced colitis were used. The colonic wet weight, macroscopic and histological colon injury, superoxide dismutase (SOD), malonyldialdehyde (MDA), and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) activity were observed. Pro-inflammation cytokines were determined by ELISA methods, semi-quantitative RT-PCR and Immuno-histochemistry.

RESULTS

We showed administration of ACAG was able to improve colitis. This was manifested by a decreased in the score of macroscopic and histological colonic injury, by lowered colonic wet weight, accompanied by significant increased of SOD activity, and decreased of MDA and iNOS activities. The treatment also significantly reduced tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) levels in colon and serum as well as the colonic mRNA levels for several inflammatory cytokines such as inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), macrophage inflammatory protein-2 (MIP-2), intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) and toll-like receptor 2, 4 (TLR2, TLR4). In addition, we also showed that ACAG was able to inhibit the activation and translocation of transcription factors, nuclear factor kappaBp65 (NF-κBp65) in colon.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that ACAG exhibits protective effect in TNBS-induced ulcerative colitis. We postulate that this might be due to its modulation of oxidant/anti-oxidant balance, downregulation of productions, expressions of pro-inflammatory cytokines and inhibition of NF-κBp65 signal transduction pathways.

A practical and novel “standard addition” strategy to screen pharmacodynamic components in traditional Chinese medicine using Heishunpian as an example

The standard addition strategy allows accurate pharmacodynamic compounds screening and embodies the systematic nature of TCM.

The standardized BHH10 extract, a combination of Astragalus membranaceus, Cinnamomum cassia, and Phellodendron amurense, reverses bone mass and metabolism in a rat model of postmenopausal osteoporosis

Jasin-hwan-gagambang (BHH10), a modified prescription of Jasin-hwan, contains Astragalus membranaceus, Cinnamomum cassia, and Phellodendron amurense, and it has been traditionally used to treat osteoporosis and other inflammatory diseases. In this study, we systematically investigated the protective effects of BHH10 in ovariectomy (OVX)-induced rats. Sprague–Dawley rats were randomly divided into sham and OVX subgroups. The rats in the OVX group were treated with vehicle, BHH10, alendronate (ALN), and 17β-estradiol (E2). BHH10 treatment significantly inhibited OVX-induced increases in body weight and uterus atrophy. In addition, it significantly increased the bone mineral density (BMD) and prevented a decrease in trabecular bone volume, connectivity density, trabecular number, thickness, and separation at the total femur and femur neck. The OVX rats showed significant decreases in the serum levels of calcium and phosphorous and significant increases in the serum levels of cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, alkaline phosphatase, osteocalcin, C-telopeptide type 1 collagen, and bone morphogenetic protein-2. These changes were significantly reduced to near sham levels by administration of BHH10 to OVX rats. BHH10-treated rats had a greater bone mass, a better structural architecture of the bone, and higher levels of biochemical markers of the bone than did the ALN-treated or E2-treated rats. These results suggest that BHH10 reverses osteoporosis in OVX rats by stimulating bone formation or regulating bone resorption and is not associated with toxicity. © 2014 The Authors. Phytotherapy Research published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Effects of berberine in the gastrointestinal tract - a review of actions and therapeutic implications

Berberine is an isoquinoline alkaloid present in several plant species, including Coptis sp. and Berberis sp. In traditional medicine, extracts of berberine are used in the treatment of diarrhea of different origins. Recent studies have shown that berberine and its derivatives have significant biological effects on gastrointestinal (GI) and other functions and may become therapeutics for the treatment of diarrhea, gastroenteritis, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, cardiovascular diseases and inflammatory conditions. This paper summarizes the current knowledge on the actions of berberine in the GI tract. Binding and target sites, activated intracellular pathways, as well as the absorption and metabolism of berberine are discussed. Effects that may be useful in future clinical treatment, like antidiarrheal, anti-inflammatory and antitumor effects are critically reviewed and potential clinical applications are presented in detail.

Anti-inflammatory activity of traditional Chinese medicinal herbs

Accumulating epidemiological and clinical evidence shows that inflammation is an important risk factor for various human diseases. Thus, suppressing chronic inflammation has the potential to delay, prevent, and control various chronic diseases, including cerebrovascular, cardiovascular, joint, skin, pulmonary, blood, lymph, liver, pancreatic, and intestinal diseases. Various natural products from traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) have been shown to safely suppress proinflammatory pathways and control inflammation-associated disease. In vivo and/or in vitro studies have demonstrated that anti-inflammatory effects of TCM occur by inhibition of the expression of master transcription factors (for example, nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB)), pro-inflammatory cytokines (for example, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), chemokines (for example, chemokine (C-C motif) ligand (CCL)-24), intercellular adhesion molecule expression and pro-inflammatory mediators (for example, inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase 2 (COX2)). However, a handful of review articles have focused on the anti-inflammatory activities of TCM and explore their possible mechanisms of action. In this review, we summarize recent research attempting to identify the anti-inflammatory constituents of TCM and their molecular targets that may create new opportunities for innovation in modern pharmacology.

Identification of nuclear factor-κB inhibitors and β2 adrenergic receptor agonists in Chinese medicinal preparation Fuzilizhong pills using UPLC with quadrupole time-of-flight MS

INTRODUCTION

Fuzilizhong Pills (FZLZ), a modified form of a famous traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) Lizhong Wan in Treatise on Febrile Diseases and consisting of Panax ginseng C.A.Mey. (Ren Shen), Aconitum carmichaelii Debx. (Fu Zi, Zhi), Glycyrrhiza uralensis Fisch., Glycyrrhiza inflata Bat. or Glycyrrhiza glabra L. (Gan Cao), Atractylodes macrocephala Koidz. (Bai Zhu) and Zingiber offcinale Rosc. (Gan Jiang), show strong clinical therapeutic effects for dyspnea and pulmonary oedema. However, the bioactive compounds are still unclear. In this study, FZLZ was analysed using a rapid detection method to identify its anti-inflammatory and spasmolytic constituents.

OBJECTIVE

To develop a simple screening method to detect the anti-inflammatory and spasmolytic constituents of FZLZ.

METHODS

Ultra-performance liquid chromatography with quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry combined with dual-bioactive (NF-κB and β2 -adrenergic receptor) luciferase reporter assay systems was employed.

RESULTS

Two β2 -adrenergic receptor agonists (salsolinol and higeramine) and three terpenoidal analogues of NF-κB inhibitors such as ginsenosides derivatives, triperpenoids derivatives and diester-diterpenoid aconitum alkaloid derivatives were characterised. Mesaconitine, flaconitine, ginsenosides Rb2, Rf, Rg2, F1 and Ro were considered to be new NF-κB inhibitors. Furthermore, IL-8 detection by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay confirmed the anti-inflammatory effects of the potential NF-κB inhibitors.

CONCLUSION

Compared with conventional fingerprints, activity-integrated fingerprints that contain both chemical and bioactive details offer a more comprehensive understanding of the chemical composition of plant materials. This strategy clearly demonstrated that dual bioactivity-integrated fingerprinting is a powerful tool for the improved screening and identification of potential dual-target lead compounds in complex herbal medicines.

Pharmacokinetic comparison of berberine in rat plasma after oral administration of berberine hydrochloride in normal and post inflammation irritable bowel syndrome rats

In the present study, post inflammation irritable bowel syndrome (PI-IBS) rats were firstly established by intracolonic instillation of acetic acid with restraint stress. Then the pharmacokinetics of berberine in the rat plasma were compared after oral administration of berberine hydrochloride (25 mg/kg) to normal rats and PI-IBS rats. Quantification of berberine in the rat plasma was achieved by using a sensitive and rapid UPLC-MS/MS method. Plasma samples were collected at 15 different points in time and the pharmacokinetic parameters were analyzed by WinNonlin software. Compared with the normal group, area under the plasma concentration vs. time curve from zero to last sampling time (AUC_0–t) and total body clearance (CL/F) in the model group significantly increased or decreased, (2039.49 ± 492.24 vs. 2763.43 ± 203.14; 4999.34 ± 1198.79 vs. 3270.57 ± 58.32) respectively. The results indicated that the pharmacokinetic process of berberine could be altered in PI-IBS pathological conditions.

Potentiating therapeutic effects by enhancing synergism based on active constituents from traditional medicine

Shifting current drug discovery tide from 'finding new drugs' to 'screening natural products' may be helpful for overcoming the 'more investment, fewer drugs' challenge. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), relying on natural products, has been playing a very important role in health protection and disease control for thousands of years in Asia, whose therapeutic efficacy is based on the 'synergism', that is, the combinational effects to be greater than that of the individual drug. Based on syndromes and patient characteristics and guided by the theories of TCM, formulae are designed to contain a combination of various kinds of crude drugs that, when combined, generally assume that a synergism of all ingredients will bring about the maximum of therapeutic efficacy. The increasing evidence has shown that multiple active component combinations of TCM could amplify the therapeutic efficacy of each agent, representing a new trend for modern medicine. However, the precise mechanism of synergistic action remains poorly understood. The present review highlights the concept of synergy and gives some examples of synergistic effects of TCM, and provides an overview of the recent and potential developments of advancing drug discovery towards more agile development of targeted combination therapies from TCM.

Antinociceptive effect of berberine on visceral hypersensitivity in rats

AIM: To assess the protective effect of berberine administration and the role of nitric oxide (NO) in visceral hypersensitivity.

METHODS: Fifty male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly assigned to five groups. An inflammatory bowel disease model was induced in rats by intracolonic instillation of 1 mL 4% acetic acid at 8 cm proximal to the anus for 30 s and restraint stress. After subsidence of inflammation on day 7 of the experiment, the rats were subjected to rectal distension, performed by a balloon (6-Fr, 2 mm external diameter, disposable silicon balloon-urethral catheter for pediatric use) which was rapidly inflated with increasing volumes of prewarmed (37 °C) water (0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.6, 0.8 and 1 mL) for 30 s at four-minute intervals, and then the abdominal withdrawal reflex (AWR) and the level of fecal output were measured, respectively. AWR scores either 0, 1, 2, 3 or 4 were obtained by blinded observers. Rats had been pretreated with berberine or aminoguanidine (NO synthetase inhibitor) or berberine + aminoguanidine before measurement.

RESULTS: The rats in the placebo group showed a hypersensitive response to rectal distension (2.69 ± 0.08 vs 1.52 ± 0.08, P = 0.000) and defecated more frequently than those in the control group (5.0 ± 0.16 vs 0.44 ± 0.16, P = 0.000). Comparing the berberine with placebo group, the AWR scores were reduced for all distension volumes and were significant at 0.2-1 mL (1.90 ± 0.08 vs 2.69 ± 0.08, P = 0.000), while the numbers of hard pellets, soft pellets, formless stools, and total fecal output in the placebo group were significantly larger than in the berberine group (5.0 ± 0.16 vs 2.56 ± 0.16, P = 0.000). Administration of aminoguanidine or berberine + aminoguanidine before VH score measurement reversed the antinociceptive effect of berberine (2.52 ± 0.08 vs 1.90 ± 0.08, P = 0.000; 2.50 ± 0.08 vs 1.90 ± 0.08, P = 0.000). The numbers of hard pellets, soft pellets, formless stool, and total of fecal output in aminoguanidine group were significantly larger than the corresponding values in control group, berberine group, and berberine + aminoguanidine group (4.81 ± 0.16 vs 0.44 ± 0.16, P = 0.000; 4.81 ± 0.16 vs 2.56 ± 0.16, P = 0.000; 4.81 ± 0.16 vs 3.75 ± 0.16, P = 0.000). The berberine and berberine + aminoguanidine groups showed reduced defecation, but aminoguanidine alone did not reduce defecation (2.56 ± 0.16 vs 4.81 ± 0.16, P = 0.000; 3.75 ± 0.16 vs 4.81 ± 0.16, P = 0.000).

CONCLUSION: Berberine had an antinociceptive effect on visceral hypersensitivity, and NO might play a role in this effect.

Study on intestinal absorption and pharmacokinetic characterization of diester diterpenoid alkaloids in precipitation derived from fuzi-gancao herb-pair decoction for its potential interaction mechanism investigation

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Aconitum carmichaelii Debx. (Fuzi in Chinese) has been widely clinically used to treat heart failure and rheumatism. Whereas its serious toxicity, Radix et Rhizoma Glycyrrhizae (Gancao in Chinese) was combined with it as traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) herb-pair for toxicity reduction and pharmacological effect improvement. Though some previous viewpoints about that has been reported, the underlying interaction mechanism of two herbs remain unknown and definitely worthy of investigating.

AIM OF STUDY

In present study, we focus on Fuzi-Gancao herb-pair precipitation (FGP), considering it related to the compatibility mechanism of Fuzi-Gancao herb-pair. The intestinal absorption and pharmacokinetic characters of 3 diester diterpenoid alkaloids in the precipitation were investigated.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Both everted gut sac model and in situ single-pass intestinal perfusion model were used to investigate rat small intestinal permeability and transport mechanism of aconitine, hypaconitine and mesaconitine. Moreover, by means of determination of the plasma concentration, the pharmacokinetic characters of 3 alkaloid compounds in rats have been developed.

RESULTS

In everted gut sac permeability experiment, the permeability of hypaconitine appeared best in ileum. Furthermore, their uptakes were increased in the presence of P-glycoprotein (P-gp) inhibitors. In situ single-pass intestinal perfusion uptake experiment, results revealed that the transport mechanism may fit the active transport mechanism. And 3 alkaloids in FPG could be absorbed well in rats, fitting 2-compartment model with 1(st) order absorption and lag time.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results in present study indicated that 3 diester diterpenoid alkaloids in FGP could be dissolved out in gastrointestinal tract firstly and then absorbed in blood after oral administration, which could result in prolonging their mean residence time and adding their absorbed doses, avoiding dose dumping. The current study has significant enlightenments for further investigation on the interaction mechanisms of other acid-base herb-pairs as well as Fuzi-Gancao herb-pair.

Naturally derived anti-inflammatory compounds from Chinese medicinal plants

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Though inflammatory response is beneficial to body damage repair, if it is out of control, it can produce adverse effects on the body. Although purely western anti-inflammatory drugs, orthodox medicines, can control inflammation occurrence and development, it is not enough. The clinical efficacy of anti-inflammation therapies is unsatisfactory, thus the search for new anti-inflammation continues. Chinese Material Medica (CMM) remains a promising source of new therapeutic agents. CMM and herbal formulae from Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), unorthodox medicines, play an improtant anti-inflammatory role in multi-targets, multi-levels, and multi-ways in treating inflammation diseases in a long history in China, based on their multi-active ingredient characteristics. Due to these reasons, recently, CMM has been commercialized as an anti-inflammation agent which has become increasingly popular in the world health drug markets. Major research contributions in ethnopharmacology have generated vast amount of data associated with CMM in anti-inflammtion aspect. Therefore, a systematic introduction of CMM anti-inflammatory research progress is of great importance and necessity.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This paper strives to describe the progress of CMM in the treatment of inflammatory diseases from different aspects, and provide the essential theoretical support and scientific evidence for the further development and utilization of CMM resources as a potential anti-inflammation drug through a variety of databases.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Literature survey was performed via electronic search (SciFinder®, Pubmed®, Google Scholar and Web of Science) on papers and patents and by systematic research in ethnopharmacological literature at various university libraries.

RESULTS

This review mainly introduced the current research on the anti-inflammatory active ingredient, anti-inflammatory effects of CMM, their mechanism, anti-inflammatory drug development of CMM, and toxicological information.

CONCLUSION

CMM is used clinically to treat inflammation symptoms in TCM, and its effect is mediated by multiple targets through multiple active ingredients. Although scholars around the world have made studies on the anti-inflammatory studies of CMM from different pathways and aspects and have made substantial progress, further studies are warranted to delineate the inflammation actions in more cogency models, establish the toxicological profiles and quality standards, assess the potentials of CMM in clinical applications, and make more convenient preparations easy to administrate for patients. Development of the clinically anti-inflammatory drugs are also warranted.