Rapid characterization of the chemical constituents of Sijunzi decoction by UHPLC coupled with Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry

The potential of natural herbal plants in the treatment and prevention of non-small cell lung cancer: An encounter between ferroptosis and mitophagy

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Chinese herbal medicine constitutes a substantial cultural and scientific resource for the Chinese nation, attracting considerable scholarly interest due to its intrinsic characteristics of "multi-component, multi-target, and multi-pathway" interactions. Simultaneously, it aligns accurately with the intricate and continuously evolving progression of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Furthermore, contemporary pharmacological studies indicate that natural herbaceous plants and their bioactive compounds exhibit a diverse array of biological activities, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-tumor effects, among others. Additionally, these substances have been demonstrated to possess a degree of safety, particularly in terms of exhibiting comparatively lower levels of toxicity to the liver and kidneys when contrasted with conventional Western medicine. Thus, the development of herbal plants, which includes both single herbs and composite formulations, as well as their bioactive constituents, through the targeted regulation of ferroptosis and mitophagy, presents substantial potential and instills considerable hope for individuals diagnosed with NSCLC.

AIM OF THE REVIEW

This review aims to conduct a critical analysis of the ethnopharmacological applications of natural herbaceous plants in relation to ferroptosis and mitophagy in NSCLC. The objective is to evaluate the potential advantages of prioritizing specific phytochemical constituents found in these plants, which may serve as novel therapeutic candidates informed by ethnobotanical knowledge. Additionally, this study seeks to enhance the current pharmacological applications of natural herbaceous plants.

METHODS

An investigation into natural herbal remedies for NSCLC was conducted, with a particular emphasis on the ferroptosis and mitophagy pathways. This study utilized traditional medical texts and ethnomedicinal literature as primary sources. Furthermore, relevant information related to ethnobotany, phytochemistry, and pharmacology is obtained from online databases, including PubMed and the China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), among others. "Traditional Chinese medicine compound preparations", "single herb extracts", "active compounds", "NSCLC", "ferroptosis", and "mitophagy" were used as keywords when searching the databases. Consequently, pertinent articles published in recent years were collected and analyzed.

RESULTS

Given the complex etiology of NSCLC, treatment strategies that concentrate exclusively on ferroptosis or mitophagy often demonstrate limitations. In this regard, the utilization of herbal plants offers unique benefits in the management of NSCLC. The rationale can be summarized within the following two dimensions: Firstly, due to the molecular mechanisms of ferroptosis and mitophagy involving multiple signaling pathways (including PINK1/Parkin, HMGB1, system Xc-/GPX4/GSH, FSP1/CoQ10/NAD (P) H, and so on), sometimes drugs with a single target are difficult to involve multiple pathways. Fortunately, there is an expanding body of evidence suggesting that various herbaceous plants and their bioactive compounds can affect multiple biological targets. Moreover, these compounds seem to interact with several targets associated with ferroptosis and mitophagy in NSCLC (such as NIX, BNIP3, FUNDC1, GPX4, FSP1, P53, Nrf2, LncRNA, and so on). Secondly, Herbaceous plants and their bioactive compounds have been shown to possess a favorable safety profile, particularly with respect to reduced hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity in comparison to conventional Western medicine. For example, Numerous compound formulations, such as Fangji Huangqi decoction, Mufangji decoction, Qiyu Sanlong decoction, and Fuzheng Kangai decoction, have been employed in China for millennia, and their clinical efficacy appears to be quite promising. Notably, In recent years, numerous researchers have sought to isolate active constituents from clinically effective compound formulations through the application of chemical methodologies. This endeavor has been driven by the necessity to tackle challenges related to complex ingredient compositions and sophisticated processing. These active compounds have been employed in cellular and animal studies to elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying these formulations.

CONCLUSIONS

The Asian region has a long-standing historical tradition of employing natural herbaceous plants for traditional medicinal purposes. Phytochemical and pharmacological studies have shown that various compound preparations derived from traditional Chinese medicine, along with individual herb extracts and their active constituents, display a range of bioactive effects. These effects encompass anti-tumor, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antioxidant properties, among others. Numerous traditional compound formulations originating from China have emerged as promising candidates for the development of pharmacological agents targeting NSCLC. It is noteworthy that a variety of compound formulations aimed at the ferroptosis and mitophagy pathways, which demonstrate unique therapeutic effects on NSCLC, are presently under extensive investigation by an increasing number of researchers. Therefore, it is imperative to consider in vitro mechanistic studies, in vivo pharmacological evaluations, and assessments of clinical efficacy. Furthermore, it is essential to conduct a comprehensive assessment of plant resources, implement quality control measures, and engage in toxicological research to ensure that the data is appropriate for further examination.

Spectrum-effect relationship between HPLC fingerprints and antioxidant activity of Qi-Fu-Yin based on multiple statistical correlation analysis

INTRODUCTION

Qi-Fu-Yin has been used to treat Alzheimer's disease (AD) in China. Oxidative stress has been recognized as a factor in AD progress. To date, there is no quality control method to ensure batch-to-batch consistency of Qi-Fu-Yin, and the potential antioxidant compounds in Qi-Fu-Yin remain uncertain.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study is to identify the potential antioxidant compounds of Qi-Fu-Yin and establish quality control standards for Qi-Fu-Yin.

METHODS

High-performance liquid chromatography was used to establish and quantify the fingerprints of Qi-Fu-Yin from various batches. Ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time-of-flight tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-Q-TOF/MS) was used to identify the common peaks. Bivariate correlation analysis, partial least squares regression analysis, and gray correlation analysis were used to establish the spectrum-effect relationship.

RESULTS

Forty-nine common peaks were determined through the establishment of fingerprints. Among them, 35 common peaks were preliminarily characterized. The multiple statistical correlation analysis methods identified six compounds as potential antioxidant constituents of Qi-Fu-Yin, and their antioxidant activities were validated in vitro. All six antioxidant compounds derived from two herbs. Therefore, three chemical index compounds derived from other three herbs were added to the quantitative analysis, while for two herbs, no peaks could be included. Eventually, six antioxidant constituents and three index compounds were quantitatively determined to provide a relatively comprehensive quality control for Qi-Fu-Yin.

CONCLUSIONS

The study elucidated the antioxidant substance basis of Qi-Fu-Yin and provided a relatively comprehensive approach for the assay of Qi-Fu-Yin, which is a promising advance in the quality control of Qi-Fu-Yin.

Synergistic Therapeutic Effects and Immunoregulatory Mechanism of Maxing Shigan Decoction Combined with Sijunzi Decoction on Viral Pneumonia in Mice

Influenza is defined in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) as an epidemic febrile illness and is usually treated with herbal compound formulas under the guidance of the "Qu Xie and Fu Zheng" theories. Ma Xing Shi Gan Tang (MXSGD) is a prominent remedy for clearing heat and detoxifying toxins in the clinical treatment of influenza in TCM, playing the role of "Qu Xie." Si Jun Zi Tang (SJZD) is recognized as one of the "Fu Zheng" formulas for strengthening the spleen and nourishing the stomach, with immunomodulatory effects. In this study, we followed the principles of "Qu Xie and Fu Zheng" to explore the effects of MXSGD combined with SJZD on viral pneumonia and its mechanism. Results showed that the couse of MXSGD and SJZD was effective in reducing the mortality rates and severity of lung pathology in lethally infected FM1 mice compared to the use of either drug alone. Moreover, further research demonstrated that the combined use suppressed TLRs and NLRP3 inflammatory signaling pathways at 4 dpi while promoting them at 7 dpi. At 10 dpi, there was a significant increase in CD11c+ and CD103+ DCs in the lungs. Together, SJZD improved the therapeutic effectiveness of MXSGD in treating influenza virus pneumonia than when used alone. MXSGD and SJZD exhibit synergistic effects in the treatment of influenza, as evidenced by the inhibition of TLR7 and NLRP3 inflammatory pathways early in the infection and facilitation of the response later. They also increase CD11c+ and CD103+ DC levels, as well as balancing Th1/Th2 cytokines.

Comprehensive characterization of the chemical constituents of Lianhua Qingwen capsule by ultra high performance liquid chromatography coupled with Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry

Lianhua Qingwen capsule is a famous traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) prescription that is widely used for the treatment of respiratory diseases in China. To facilitate in-depth and global characterization of the chemical constituents of Lianhua Qingwen capsule, a profiling method based on ultra-high performance liquid chromatography coupled with Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry (UHPLC-FT-ICR-MS) was applied in both positive and negative ion modes for the comprehensive characterization of the chemical profiles of Lianhua Qingwen capsule. A total of 596 compounds were identified or tentatively characterized, including 137 flavonoids, 46 phenylpropanoids, 43 phenylethanoid glycosides, 145 terpenoids, 83 organic acids and their derivatives, 15 quinones, 39 alkaloids, 32 alcohol glycosides and 56 other compounds. Thus, this results widely extended and enriched the chemical constituents of Lianhua Qingwen capsule, which will provide comprehensive and valuable information for its quality control and further pharmacological study, facilitate understanding the effective substance and pharmacodynamic material basis, thereby providing a solid foundation for further development of the Lianhuaqingwen capsule.

SiJunZi decoction ameliorates bone quality and redox homeostasis and regulates advanced glycation end products/receptor for advanced glycation end products and WNT/β-catenin signaling pathways in diabetic mice

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

SiJunZi decoction (SJZD), one of the traditional Chinese medicine formulas, has been clinically and traditionally used to improve glucose and lipid metabolism and promote bone remodeling.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To study the actions and mechanisms of SJZD on bone remodeling in a type 2 diabetes mouse model.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Diabetic mice generated with a high-fat diet (HFD) and streptozotocin (STZ) were subjected to SJZD treatment for 8 weeks. Blood glucose and lipid profile, redox status and bone metabolism were determined by ELISA or biochemical assays. Bone quality was evaluated by micro-CT, three-point bending assay and Fourier transform infrared spectrum (FTIR). Bone histomorphometry alterations were evaluated by Hematoxylin-Eosin (H&E), tartrate resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) staining and Safranin O-fast green staining. The expressions of superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1), advanced glycation end products (AGEs), receptor for advanced glycosylation end products (RAGE), phosphorylated nuclear factor kappa-B (p-NF-κB), NF-κB, cathepsin K, semaphorin 3A (Sema3A), insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF1), p-GSK-3β, (p)-β-catenin, Runt-related transcription factor 2 (Runx2) and Cyclin D1 in the femurs and/or tibias were examined by Western blot or immunohistochemical staining. The main constituents in the SJZD aqueous extract were characterized by a HPLC/MS.

RESULTS

SJZD intervention improved glucose and lipid metabolism and preserved bone quality in the diabetic mice, in particular glucose tolerance, lipid profile, bone microarchitecture, strength and material composition. SJZD administration to diabetic mice preserved redox homeostasis in serum and bone marrow, and prevented an increase in AGEs, RAGE, p-NF-κB/NF-κB, cathepsin K, p-GSK-3β, p-β-catenin expressions and a decrease in Sema3A, IGF1, β-catenin, Runx2 and Cyclin D1 expressions in tibias and/or femurs. Thirteen compounds were identified in SJZD aqueous extract, including astilbin, liquiritin apioside, ononin, ginsenoside Re, Rg1, Rb1, Rb2, Ro, Rb3, Rd, notoginsenoside R2, glycyrrhizic acid, and licoricesaponin B2.

CONCLUSIONS

SJZD ameliorates bone quality in diabetic mice possibly via maintaining redox homeostasis. The mechanism governing these alterations are possibly related to effects on the AGEs/RAGE and Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathways. SJZD may offer a novel source of drug candidates for the prevention and treatment of type 2 diabetes and osteoporosis.

Characterization and quality evaluation of QiXueShuFu Decoction based on fingerprint and ultra-performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole-orbitrap mass spectrometry

QiXueShuFu Decoction (QXSFD) modified from the Bazhen Decoction which was originally from the classic Ming Dynasty is a traditional folk formula that boosts the body's immune system. However, its ambiguous chemical components limited its quality control evaluation. In this study, ultra-performance liquid chromatography (UPLC) fingerprint combined with multivariate analysis was used to evaluate the quality of 15 batches of QXSFD, and UPLC quadrupole-orbitrap mass spectrometry was used to further examine the chemical components in QXSFD, after which representative compounds from each disassembled prescription were selected for comparison. Fifteen batches of samples had 33 common peaks in which 11 differential components could be used as a reference for subsequent quality control. One hundred forty-three components were identified from QXSFD. Saponins were mainly derived from the monarch, terpenes from the minister, and polysaccharides and glycosides from the assistant. In addition, quantitative assay revealed that the content of ferulic acid, chlorogenic acid, 2,3,5,4'-tetrahydroxystilbene-2-O-β-D-glucoside and 3,6'-disinapoyl sucrose in the whole prescription were higher than the contents of each disassembled prescription. This is the first comprehensive quality report on the chemical components of QXSFD, which is important for pharmacodynamic material basis and quality control.

Clinical Efficacy and Gut Microbiota Regulating-Related Effect of Si-Jun-Zi Decoction in Postoperative Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Patients: A Prospective Observational Study

BACKGROUND

Postoperative non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients frequently encounter a deteriorated quality of life (QOL), disturbed immune response, and disordered homeostasis. Si-Jun-Zi Decoction (SJZD), a well-known traditional Chinese herbal formula, is frequently employed in clinical application for many years. Exploration is underway to investigate the potential therapeutic effect of SJZD for treating postoperative NSCLC.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the efficacy of SJZD on QOLs, hematological parameters, and regulations of gut microbiota in postoperative NSCLC patients.

METHODS

A prospective observational cohort study was conducted, enrolling 65 postoperative NSCLC patients between May 10, 2020 and March 15, 2021 in Yueyang Hospital, with 33 patients in SJZD group and 32 patients in control (CON) group. The SJZD group comprised of patients who received standard treatments and the SJZD decoction, while the CON group consisted of those only underwent standard treatments. The treatment period was 4 weeks. The primary outcome was QOL. The secondary outcomes involved serum immune cell and inflammation factor levels, safety, and alterations in gut microbiota.

RESULTS

SJZD group showed significant enhancements in cognitive functioning (P = .048) at week 1 and physical functioning (P = .019) at week 4. Lung cancer-specific symptoms included dyspnea (P = .001), coughing (P = .008), hemoptysis (P = .034), peripheral neuropathy (P = .019), and pain (arm or shoulder, P = .020, other parts, P = .019) eased significantly in the fourth week. Anemia indicators such as red blood cell count (P = .003 at week 1, P = .029 at week 4) and hemoglobin (P = .016 at week 1, P = .048 at week 4) were significantly elevated by SJZD. SJZD upregulated blood cell cluster differentiation (CD)3+ (P = .001 at week 1, P < .001 at week 4), CD3+CD4+ (P = .012 at week 1), CD3+CD8+ (P = .027 at week 1), CD19+ (P = .003 at week 4), increased anti-inflammatory interleukin (IL)-10 (P = .004 at week 1, P = .003 at week 4), and decreased pro-inflammatory IL-8 (P = .004 at week 1, p = .005 at week 4). Analysis of gut microbiota indicated that SJZD had a significant impact on increasing microbial abundance and diversity, enriching probiotic microbes, and regulating microbial biological functions.

CONCLUSIONS

SJZD appears to be an effective and safe treatment for postoperative NSCLC patients. As a preliminary observational study, this study provides a foundation for further research.

Sijunzi Decoction Targets IL1B and TNF to Reduce Neutrophil Extracellular Traps (NETs) in Ulcerative Colitis: Evidence from Silicon Prediction and Experiment Validation

Purpose

This study was conducted to explore the mechanism of Sijunzi Decoction (SJZ) in the treatment of ulcerative colitis (UC).

Methods

The study aimed to investigate the active components and targets of SJZ in the treatment of UC by screening databases such as TCMSP, GeneCards, OMIM, Distinct, TTD, and Drugbank. An online Venn tool, Cytoscape 3.7.2, and Autodock Tools were used to analyze the components and targets. The study also used a mouse model of UC to further investigate the effects of SJZ. HE staining, immunofluorescence, ELISA, qPCR, and Western blot were used to detect various indices.

Results

Eighty-three active components and 112 action targets were identified from SJZ, including 67 targets for treating UC-related NETs. The five core targets identified were AKT1, JUN, IL1B, PTGS2, and TNF, and molecular docking studies indicated that the five targets were well-docked with ginsenoside Rh2, isoflavones, and formononetin. Animal experiments demonstrated that SJZ could alleviate various parameters such as weight, colon length, spleen index, disease activity index, and intestinal pathology of the UC mice. Immunofluorescence and Western blot showed that SJZ could reduce the expression of IL1B and TNF in intestinal neutrophils while increasing the expression of Occludin. Cellular immunofluorescence suggests that SJZ can reduce the expression of TNF and IL1B in NETs. The qPCR results also suggested that SJZ could inhibit TNF signal. Furthermore, ELISA results suggested that SJZ could inhibit the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6) while promoting the expression of anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-10, IL-37, TGF-β).

Conclusion

SJZ treats UC by reducing the content of intestinal NETs, with primary targets on the NETs being IL1B and TNFand suppress TNF signal. The practical components of SJZ may be ginsenoside Rh2, isoflavones, and formononetin.

UPLC-QTOF-MS with a chemical profiling approach for holistic quality evaluation between a material reference of Wen Dan decoction and its commercial preparations

BACKGROUND

Wen Dan decoction (WDD) has been a famous classic formula for resolving phlegm since ancient times in China. Currently, there are many types of WDD commercial preparations produced through modern technology. However, it is not known whether the holistic quality of WDD commercial preparations is consistent with the traditional decocting method to exert its proper effects. Therefore, the WDD material reference was studied and prepared, which can represent the traditional Chinese formulation WDD.

METHODS

A method based on UPLC-QTOF-MS was developed to evaluate the quality of WDD material reference and commercial prescriptions. At the same time, the multivariate statistical method was used to compare the differences between the material reference and the commercial prescription by principal component analysis (PCA) and heatmap. Finally, the UPLC-QTOF-MS method was established to quantitatively study 11 representative components, including naringin, hesperidin, neohesperidin, liquiritin, glycyrrhizic acid, adenosine, liquiritigenin, tangeretin, eriocitrin, naringenin and synephrine.

RESULTS

A total of 107 compounds were identified in the WDD material reference by comparing the retention time and fragment ion characteristics, including 54 flavonoids, 14 triterpenes, 10 organic acids, 7 alkaloids, 7 coumarins and 15 other components. The samples were almost evenly split into two groups, indicating a difference in quality between the WDD material reference and its commercial preparations in multivariate statistical analysis. Eleven major components of linearity, precision, repeatability, stability and recovery rate met the requirements, which were clearly different in commercial preparations and WDD material references. In terms of the content of 11 components in the commercial preparation, only CP8 is close to the material reference, which is in agreement with the statistical analysis of the heatmap. The concentrations of naringin and neohesperidin from the WDD material reference were higher than those from the commercial preparations.

CONCLUSIONS

The quality evaluation method established in this study can be used to identify different sources of WDD but also proves that the WDD material reference contains higher naringin. Furthermore, this study confirmed that the preparation technology of WDD commercial prescriptions should be optimized on the basis of WDD material references, producing the closest possible clinical basis for the substance.

A mechanism of Sijunzi decoction on improving intestinal injury with spleen deficiency syndrome and the rationality of its compatibility

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Sijunzi Decoction (SJZD) is a renowned formula for the treatment of spleen deficiency syndrome (SDS) in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). Its non-polysaccharides (NPS) component, dominated by various compounds of SJZD, has shown the remarkable efficacy in SDS, especially in gastrointestinal injury. However, the principle of compatibility of SJZD and the micro-mechanism of effect on SDS are still unclear.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To elucidate the scientific implications of SJZD compatibility and its micro-mechanism in the treatment of SDS-induced intestinal injury.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

First, the chemical composition of NPS in SJZD and incomplete SJZD (iSJZD, including SJZD-R, SJZD-A, SJZD-P, SJZD-G) were comprehensively analyzed by UPLC-QTOF-MS, and comparing their chemical composition by multivariate statistical analysis to reveal the effect of a single herb on SJZD compatibility. Second, network pharmacology and molecular docking were used to uncover the micro-mechanisms of potential active compounds in SJZD for the treatment of SDS, and develop an active component combination (ACC) by accurate quantification. Subsequently, the action of the potential active compounds and ACC was verified through in vivo and in vitro.

RESULTS

A total of 112, 77, 93, 87, and 67 compounds were detected in NPS of SJZD, SJZD-R, SJZD-A, SJZD-P, and SJZD-G, respectively. Changes in the chemical components of SJZD_NPS and iSJZD_NPS revealed that RG and RAM, as well as RAM and Poria significantly affected the dissolution of each other's chemical components, and the co-decoction of four herbs promoted the dissolution of the active compounds and inhibited toxic compounds. Furthermore, network pharmacology showed that 274 compounds of 15 categories in SJZD_NPS acted on the 186 key targets to treat SDS by inhibiting inflammation, enhancing immunity, and regulating gastrointestinal function and metabolism. Finally, through in vitro experiments, six compounds among 18 potential compounds were verified to markedly repair intestinal epithelium injury by modulating the FAK/PI3K/Akt or LCK/Ras/PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. It is worth mentioning that ACC, composed of 11 compounds accurately quantified, demonstrated significant in vivo treatment effects on intestinal damage with SDS similar to NPS or SJZD.

CONCLUSIONS

This study elucidates the scientific evidence of the "Jun-Chen-Zuo-Shi" and "detoxification and synergistic" in the decocting process of SJZD. An ACC, the active component of SJZD, ameliorate SDS-induced intestinal injury by the FAK/PI3K/Akt signaling pathway, which provides a strategy for screening alternatives to effective combinations of TCMs.

Sijunzi decoction granules in the prevention and treatment of recurrence of colorectal adenoma: Study protocol for a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial

Background: The recurrence of colorectal adenomas (CRAs) after endoscopy predisposes patients to a risk of colorectal cancer. Guided by the traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), patients with colorectal diseases usually manifest with spleen deficiency syndrome (SDS) and are treated with Sijunzi decoction (SJZD). Therefore, this trial aims to explore the efficacy and safety of SJZD in the prevention and treatment of CRAs recurrence. Methods: SJZD on prevention and treatment of CRAs recurrence after resection: a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was designed. Patients who undergo polypectomy of CRAs will be recruited and randomized into a SJZD group and a placebo group in a 1:1 ratio. The intervention phase will be 12 months. The follow-up period will last 24 months. The primary outcome is the CRA recurrence rate after intervention. The secondary outcomes include the CRA recurrence rate at the second year post-polypectomy, the pathological type of adenoma and the alterations in SDS scores after intervention. Discussion: Previous clinical practice has observed the sound effect of SJZD in the context of gastrointestinal diseases. A number of experiments have also validated the active components in SJZD. This trial aims to provide tangible evidence for the usage of SJZD, hoping to reduce the recurrence of CRAs.

Effects of sulfur-fumigated ginseng on the global quality of Si-Jun-Zi decoction, a traditional ginseng-containing multi-herb prescription, evaluated by metabolomics and glycomics strategies

Si-Jun-Zi decoction (SJZD) with ginseng as the principal medicinal herb is a traditional Chinese Medicine multi-herb prescription that commonly employed to treat colorectal cancer etc. Previous studies showed that nearly half of the commercial ginseng was sulfur-fumigated, one of the postharvest processing methods that commonly causes sulfur-dioxide (SO₂) residue and chemical composition transformation in medical herbs. In this study, the effect of sulfur-fumigated ginseng on global quality of SJZD was evaluated by UPLC-QTOF-MS/MS based metabolomics and multiple chromatographic techniques based glycomics strategies. For non-saccharides components, sulfur-fumigated ginseng led to the emergence of sulfur-containing derivatives and alteration of saponins and flavonoids in SJZD. For saccharide components, sulfur-fumigated ginseng decreased the total contents and molecular weights of polysaccharides, changed the monosaccharide composition of polysaccharides, and increased the contents of oligosaccharides and free monosaccharides of SJZD. The alterations of SJZD were aggravated with the sulfur-fumigated content of ginseng. Those phenomena might be attributed to 1) sulfur-fumigation caused the generation of sulfur-containing derivatives in ginseng, which further transferred to SJZD, and 2) sulfur-fumigation caused the residue of SO₂ in ginseng, which reduced the pH value and further changed the dissolution of saponins and flavonoids and accelerated the degradation of the polysaccharides to oligosaccharides and/or monosaccharides in SJZD. Furthermore, although storage reduced the SO₂ residue in sulfur-fumigated ginseng, it couldn't recover the alterations of chemical profiles in SJZD. In conclusion, sulfur-fumigated ginseng altered the global quality of SJZD, which promoted that extra attention must be paid during the application of herbal formulas that containing sulfur-fumigated herbs.

A Network Pharmacology Approach for Uncovering the Antitumor Effects and Potential Mechanisms of the Sijunzi Decoction for the Treatment of Gastric Cancer

Background

Sijunzi decoction (SJZD), a classic Chinese formula, has been clinically used for the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders. However, few studies have uncovered its antitumor effects and its potential mechanisms against gastric cancer (GC). Therefore, this work aimed to identify the active compounds and putative targets of the SJZD and to further explore the potential mechanisms involved in the treatment of GC.

Materials and Methods

The active compounds and potential targets of the SJZD and related genes for GC treatment were collected from a public database. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM)-compound-target-disease networks, Venn diagrams, protein–protein interactions (PPIs), gene ontology (GO), and the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) were used to obtain the bioactive compounds, key targets, and potential pathways. Next, the human gastric adenocarcinoma cell line NUGC-4 was inoculated subcutaneously into the right flank of NCG mice to build a tumor-bearing mouse model to further verify the findings.

Results

There were 117 compounds in the SJZD in total. The SJZD and GC had 161 and 3288 potential targets, respectively, among which 123 targets overlapped. The network analysis showed that quercetin, kaempferol formononetin, ginsenoside, atractylenolide III, etc., were bioactive molecules. The tumor necrosis factor (TNF), interleukin-6 (IL-6), cellular tumor antigen p53 (TP53), transcription factor AP-1 (JUN), and vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA) were potential targets. A KEGG pathway enrichment analysis revealed 110 pathways involved in the pathways for cancer, including the PI3K-AKT signaling pathway. Validation experiments showed that the SJZD inhibited tumor growth and induced apoptosis in tumor cells. In addition, the SJZD downregulated expressions of VEGFA, iNOS, COX-2, and Bax/Bcl2 and inhibited the expressions of p-PI3K and p-AKT.

Conclusion

The SJZD treats GC by inhibiting blood vessel hyperplasia and inducing cell apoptosis by regulating the PI3K/AKT pathway.

Advances and challenges in ginseng research from 2011 to 2020: the phytochemistry, quality control, metabolism, and biosynthesis

Covering: 2011 to the end of 2020Panax species (Araliaceae), particularly P. ginseng, P. quinquefolius, and P. notoginseng, have a long history of medicinal use because of their remarkable tonifying effects, and currently serve as crucial sources for various healthcare products, functional foods, and cosmetics, aside from their vast clinical preparations. The huge market demand on a global scale prompts the continuous prosperity in ginseng research concerning the discovery of new compounds, precise quality control, ADME (absorption/disposition/metabolism/excretion), and biosynthesis pathways. Benefitting from the ongoing rapid development of analytical technologies, e.g. multi-dimensional chromatography (MDC), personalized mass spectrometry (MS) scan strategies, and multi-omics, highly recognized progress has been made in driving ginseng analysis towards "systematicness, integrity, personalization, and intelligentization". Herein, we review the advances in the phytochemistry, quality control, metabolism, and biosynthesis pathway of ginseng over the past decade (2011-2020), with 410 citations. Emphasis is placed on the introduction of new compounds isolated (saponins and polysaccharides), and the emerging novel analytical technologies and analytical strategies that favor ginseng's authentic use and global consumption. Perspectives on the challenges and future trends in ginseng analysis are also presented.

Identification of Chemical Components of Qi-Fu-Yin and Its Prototype Components and Metabolites in Rat Plasma and Cerebrospinal Fluid via UPLC-Q-TOF-MS

Qi-Fu-Yin, a traditional Chinese medicine formula, has been used to treat Alzheimer's disease (AD, a neurodegenerative disorder) in clinical setting. In this study, the chemical components of Qi-Fu-Yin and its prototype components and metabolites in rat plasma and cerebrospinal fluid, after oral administration, were preliminarily characterized via ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time-of-flight tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q-TOF-MS). A total of 180 compounds, including saponins, flavonoids, organic acids, sucrose esters, oligosaccharide esters, phthalides, phenylethanoid glycosides, alkaloids, xanthones, terpene lactones, ionones, and iridoid glycoside, were tentatively characterized. For the first time, 51 prototypical components and 26 metabolites, including saponins, phthalides, flavonoids, sucrose esters, organic acids, alkaloids, ionones, terpene lactones, iridoid glycoside, and their derivatives, have been tentatively identified in the plasma. Furthermore, 10 prototypical components (including butylidenephthalide, butylphthalide, 20(S)-ginsenoside Rh₁, 20(R)-ginsenoside Rh₁, and zingibroside R₁) and 6 metabolites were preliminarily characterized in cerebrospinal fluid. These results were beneficial to the discovery of the active components of Qi-Fu-Yin anti-AD.

Sijunzi Decoction Inhibits Stemness by Suppressing β-Catenin Transcriptional Activity in Gastric Cancer Cells

OBJECTIVE

To investigate a previously uncharacterized function of Sijunzi Decoction (SJZD) in inhibition of gastric cancer stem cells (GCSCs).

METHODS

MKN74 and MKN45, two CD44 positive gastric cancer cell lines with stem cell properties were used. The cells were divided into 2 groups. Treatment group was treated with SJZD (1-5 mg/mL) for indicated time (48 h-14 days). The control group was treated with equal volume of phosphate buffered saline. Cell Counting Assay Kit-8 were used to measure cell viability. Spheroid colony formation and GCSCs marker expression were performed to determine GCSCs stemness. Cell fractionation and chromatin immunoprecipitation assays were used to assess the distribution and DNA-binding activity of β-catenin after SJZD treatment, respectively.

RESULTS

SJZD treatment repressed cell growth and induced apoptosis in MKN74 and MKN45 cell lines (P<0.05). Moreover, SJZD dramatically inhibited formation of spheroid colony and expression of GCSC markers in GC cells (P<0.05). Mechanistically, SJZD reduced nuclear accumulation and DNA binding activity of β-catenin (P<0.05), the key regulator for maintaining CSC stemness.

CONCLUSION

SJZD inhibits GCSCs by attenuating the transcriptional activity of β-catenin.

Triterpenoid acids from medicinal mushroom Inonotus obliquus (Chaga) alleviate hyperuricemia and inflammation in hyperuricemic mice: Possible inhibitory effects on xanthine oxidase activity

The purpose of this study was to explore the hypouricemic effect in hyperuricemia mice of triterpenoid acids from Inonotus obliquus (TAIO), and decipher of the underlying xanthine oxidase inhibitory mechanism. Measurement of xanthine oxidase (XO) inhibitory activity was assayed. Organ indexes and serum biochemical indicators were measured in potassium oxonate-induced hyperuricemia mice. Studies showed that TAIO had the strong inhibitory effect on XO activity, and its inhibition type was mixed and reversible. In vivo, TAIO decreased efficiently uric acid level, hepatic XO, serum blood urea nitrogen activities in hyperuricemia mice. Indicating that TAIO may ameliorate kidney damage and relieve inflammation in hyperuricemic mice, and had the inhibitory effect on XO activity. Furthermore, eight triterpenoids were identified by Ultra performance liquid chromatography electrospray quadrupole time of flight mass spectrometry. These findings proved that triterpenoids from Inonotus obliquus would have potential biological characteristics and effect on controlling hyperuricemia and gout as an active supplement. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: There are a large amount of evidence indicating that hyperuricemia and gout are related to the hypertension and obesity. And gout and hyperuricemia are also possible connection with cardiovascular disease and metabolic syndrome. Currently, xanthine oxidase is the target of many kinds of chemical drugs at present, but the therapeutic drugs used in clinical medicine will produce more or less side effects. Therefore, the aim of this study was to explore the material basis of effective substances for reducing uric acid in Inonotus obliquus and to evaluate its effect. This study can provide a promising application of Inonotus obliquus in the fields of functional foods or medicines for gout and hyperuricemia.

A validated UHPLC-MS/MS method for pharmacokinetic and brain distribution studies of twenty constituents in rat after oral administration of Jia-Wei-Qi-Fu-Yin

A rapid ultra-high performance liquid chromatography coupled with triple quadrupole tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-QqQ MS/MS) approach with high sensitivity and selectivity was developed for the quantification of twenty compounds, including 9 saponins, 8 flavonoids, 2 oligosaccharide esters and 1 phenolic acid, in rat plasma and brain, which was administrated intragastrically with Jia-Wei-Qi-Fu-Yin (JWQFY), Mass spectrometric detection was operated under multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) mode. All calibration curves possessed good linearity with correlation coefficients ( r²) higher than 0.9916 in their respective linear ranges. For intra- and inter-day precision, all the relative standard deviations (RSDs) at different levels were less than 14.68 %. Based on the UHPLC-QqQ MS/MS quantitative results, pharmacokinetic study and brain distribution of multiple components in JWQFY was then successfully performed. As a result, constituents with discrepancy structures showed diverse pharmacokinetic and distribution characteristics. For instance, ferulic acid (phenolic acid), 3, 6'-disinapoyl sucrose and tenuifoliside A (oligosaccharide esters) showed short T_max (< 10 min), whereas the T_max of ginsenosides Rb₁, Rb₂ and Rc (ppd-type terpenoid saponins) were much longer (> 4 h). Besides, ferulic acid, epimedin C, icariin, glycyrrhizin, ginsenoside Rb₁ and ginsenoside Rg₁ were considered as the potential effective ingredients of JWQFY because of their relatively high exposure to blood and brain. Our study would provide relevant information for discovery of pharmacodynamic ingredients, as well as further action mechanisms investigations of JWQFY.

Shensu IV prevents glomerular podocyte injury in nephrotic rats via promoting lncRNA H19/DIRAS3-mediated autophagy

Shensu IV is a Chinese prescription well-known for its function in treating chronic kidney diseases. However, the potential mechanisms underlying how Shensu IV exerts its effects remain unclear. In the present study, we investigated the effects of Shensu IV on glomerular podocyte injury in nephrotic rats and puromycin-induced injury in cultured podocytes, and assessed the associated molecular mechanisms. Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) results showed that the main components of Shensu IV were l-Carnitine, P-lysoPC (LPC) 16:0, Coumaroyl tyramine, Tetramethylpyrazine, LPC 18:1, Choline, (S,S)-Butane-2,3-diol, and Scopoletin. We further found that nephrotic rats displayed pathological alterations in kidney tissues and ultrastructural changes in glomerular podocytes; however, these effects were reversed with Shensu IV treatment. Compared with the control, the numbers of autophagosomes were markedly reduced in the model group, but not in the Shensu IV treatment group. Furthermore, the expression of p62 was significantly higher in the model group than in the controls, whereas the LC3-II/I ratio was significantly lower; however, these changes were not observed when Shensu IV was administered. The protective effects of Shensu IV were further confirmed in podocytes displaying puromycin-induced injury. Compared with control group, the expression of long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) H19, mTOR, p-mTOR, and p62 was significantly increased in the puromycin group, whereas that of distinct subgroup of the RAS family member 3 (DIRAS3) was significantly decreased, as was the LC3-II/I ratio. The opposite results were obtained for both shH19- and Shensu IV-treated cells. Collectively, our data demonstrated that Shensu IV can prevent glomerular podocyte injury in nephrotic rats and puromycin-treated podocytes, likely via promoting lncRNA H19/DIRAS3-regulated autophagy.

An integrated strategy of MS-network-based offline 2DLC-QTOF-MS/MS coupled with UHPLC-QTRAP®-MS/MS for the characterization and quantification of the non-polysaccharides in Sijunzi decoction

Sijunzi decoction (SJZD), a classic recipe in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), has been applied for the clinical treatment of gastrointestinal diseases. While there are reports on pharmaceutical substances of SJZD focusing on its polysaccharides, the composition of non-polysaccharides (NPSs) has not yet been holistically clarified. In the current study, offline two-dimensional liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time-of-flight tandem mass spectrometry (2DLC-QTOF-MS/MS) was used for comprehensive NPS chemical profiling of SJZD. In addition, the MS-network of SJZD was proposed, which led to the construction of a larger in-house chemical library and accelerated qualitative processing. Four hundred forty-nine components, among which 6 were potentially novel, and 32 were confirmed by standard substances, were identified or tentatively assigned. Furthermore, based on good method validation, 19 representative components were simultaneously quantified by ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with triple-quadrupole linear ion-trap tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-QTRAP®-MS/MS). They were selected for quantification on the account of their bioactive reports on in vivo or in vitro activities, the peak intensity in the mass spectrum, and characteristic structures, which have the potential to be qualitative or quantitative markers of SJZD. The present work furthers understanding of the pharmacological effects and action mechanism of NPSs in SJZD, and provides a useful analytical approach for complex composition research of TCMs.

Characterization of chemical profile and quantification of major representative components of Wendan decoction, a classical traditional Chinese medicine formula

Wendan decoction, a classical traditional Chinese medicine formula consisting of six herbal medicines, has been widely used in clinical treatments for thousands of years due to the expectorant effects. However, the chemical basis of Wendan decoction remains unclear, which hinders the elucidation of the scientific connotation and mechanism of its effective components. In this study, an ultra-high performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time-of-flight tandem mass spectrometry method was first developed for characterization of its chemical profile, and a total of 142 chemical components including flavonoids, triterpenoids, alkaloids, coumarins, pungent phytochemicals, and other types were detected, among which 41 components were definitively identified with authentic standards. Furthermore, 14 major representative components were simultaneously quantified by high-performance liquid chromatography with ultraviolet detector, indicating that the content levels of flavonoids were the most abundant in Wendan decoction. In summary, this study established sensitive and practical methods to systematically characterize chemical profile for the first time and simultaneous quantify representative components of Wendan decoction. These findings above would provide a solid chemical basis for disclosure of potential effective components by further in vivo disposal study, and promote therapeutic mechanism researches of Wendan decoction.

Global Profiling and Structural Characterization of Metabolites of Ononin Using HPLC-ESI-IT-TOF-MSn After Oral Administration to Rats

Ononin is a bioactive isoflavone of legumes. To explore the "effective forms" of ononin, its metabolites were characterized using HPLC-ESI-IT-TOF-MSⁿ after oral administration to rats. Metabolites (106), including 94 new metabolites, were characterized, which contained 17 phase I, 23 hydroxylated and methylated, 54 sulfated, 10 glucuronidated, and 2 sulfated and glucuronidated metabolites. Six hydroxylated metabolites of formononetin (aglycone of ononin) were simultaneously detected for the first time. Twenty-three hydroxylated and methylated metabolites were the new metabolites of ononin, and the number of hydroxylation and methylation was 1-3 and 1-2. Twenty metabolites have ononin-related bioactivities, and many metabolites have the same bioactivities. Their probable mechanisms of action may be additive and/or synergistic effects, especially because of the addition of the blood concentrations of these compounds. The results provide a foundation for a better understanding of the "effective forms" of ononin.

Rapid characterization of the chemical constituents of Sanhua decoction by UHPLC coupled with Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry

Sanhua decoction, a famous Chinese herbal formula has been widely used for the treatment of stroke. In our study, a rapid, swift and straightforward analytical method with the help of UHPLC-FT-ICR-MS/MS was successfully developed for the first time to separate and identify the chemical constituents of Sanhua decoction. Chromatography was performed on a Universal XB C₁₈ column (150 mm × 2.1 mm, 1.8 μm) using a mobile phase containing 0.1% formic acid–water (A) and acetonitrile (B). A total of 137 compounds in Sanhua decoction were identified or tentatively characterized. The findings revealed the fact that Sanhua decoction mainly contains flavonoids (in Aurantii fructus immaturus and Rheum palmatum L.), anthraquinones (in Rheum palmatum L.), coumarins (in Notopterygii Rhizoma Et Radix), phenylpropanoid glycosides, alkaloids and lignans (in Magnoliae Officmalis Cortex), which made up the key ingredients existing in Sanhua decoction. This study is hoped to be meaningful for the characterization of components in other traditional Chinese medicines, and lay the foundation for research on the pharmacology of Sanhua decoction.

Sanhua decoction, a famous Chinese herbal formula has been widely used for the treatment of stroke.

Rapid characterization of chemical constituents of Shaoyao Gancao decoction using UHPLC coupled with Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry

Shaoyao Gancao decoction (SGD), a well-known Chinese herbal formula, has been used to treat liver injury for a long time. In this study, chemical profiles of SGD were identified using ultra high-performance liquid chromatography combined with Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry (UHPLC-FT-ICR-MS/MS). Liquid chromatography was performed on a C₁₈ column (150 mm × 2.1 mm, 1.8 μm); the mobile phase comprised 0.1% formic acid (A) and acetonitrile (B). We then characterized 73 chemical compounds; the primary constituents in SGD included phenols and monoterpenes (in Paeoniae Radix Alba), triterpene saponins, and flavonoids (in Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma Praeparata Cum Melle). Thus, this study provides a basis for further study on SGD and is expected to be useful for rapidly characterizing constituents in other traditional Chinese herbal formulations.

Flowchart of rapid characterization of the chemical constituents of Shaoyao Gancao decoction by UHPLC coupled with Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry.

Rapid characterization of chemical constituents of Gansuibanxia decoction by UHPLC-FT-ICR-MS analysis

Gansuibanxia decoction (GSBXD) is one of the most famous traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). It is a herbal formula used for treating hydrops, such as cancerous ascites, pleural effusion, pericardial effusion, etc. However, the chemical constituents of GSBXD were still unclear. In this study, an UHPLC-FT-ICR-MS method was established and applied to the separation and characterization of the chemical constituents of GSBXD. A total of 62 components were chemically defined or tentatively identified, including diterpenoids, triterpenoids, flavonoids, monoterpene glycosides and alkaloids. The results is meaningful for a better understanding of the material basis of GSBXD and can be the basis for its further in vitro and in vivo studies.