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Cao R, Wang Y, Zhou Y, Zhu J, Zhang K, Liu W, Feng F, Qu W. Advanced researches of traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacology, and toxicology of medical Uncariae Ramulus Cum Uncis. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 325:117848. [PMID: 38336181 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2024.117848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Medical Uncariae Ramulus Cum Uncis consists of Uncaria rhynchophylla (Miq.) Miq. ex Havil, Uncaria macrophylla Wall, Uncaria sinensis (Oliv.) Havil, Uncaria hirsuta Havil, and Uncaria sessilifructus Roxb, which belongs to the species widely used in the genus Uncaria. These species resource widely distributed in China and abroad, and the hook-bearing stem is the primary constituent enrichment site. There are many different forms and architectures of chemicals, depending on the extraction site. Traditional remedies employing URCU had been used widely in antiquity and were first compiled in renowned ancient masterpiece 'Mingyi Bielu ()' written by Hongjing Tao. In modern pharmacological studies, both the total extracts and the phytoconstituents isolated from URCU have been shown to have neuroprotective, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antibacterial, and autophagy-enhancer properties. AIM OF THE STUDY This review concentrates on the traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacology, toxicology, and nanomaterials studies of URCU, with a perspective to assist with further research and advance. MATERIAL AND METHODS The Chinese and English literature studies of this review are based on these database searches including Science Direct, CNKI, Wiley online library, Spring Link, Web of Science, PubMed, Medalink, Google scholar, Elsevier, ACS Publications, iPlant, Missouri Botanical Garden, Plant of the World Online. The pertinent data on URCU was gathered. RESULTS Based on the examination of the genus Uncaria, 107 newly marked chemical compositions have been identified from URCU from 2015 to present, including alkaloids, terpenoids, flavonoids, steroids, and others. Pharmacological studies have demonstrated that URCU has a variety of benefits in diseases such as neurodegenerative diseases, cancer, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and migraine, due to its neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-tumor, anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties. According to metabolic and toxicological studies, the dosage, frequency, and interactions of the drugs that occur in vivo are of great significance for determining whether the organic bodies can perform efficacy or produce toxicity. The research on URCU-mediated nanomaterials is expanding and increasing in order to address the inadequacies of conventional Chinese medicine. The alkaloids in URCU have the capability to self-assemble with other classes of components in addition to being biologically active. CONCLUSION URCU plants are widely distributed, abundant in chemical constituents, and widely used in both traditional and modern medicine for a variety of pharmacological effects. The utilization of herbal medicines can be raised by assessing the pharmacological distinctions among several species within the same genus and may accelerate the modernization of traditional Chinese medicine. Controlling the concentration of drug administration, monitoring metabolic markers, and inventing novel nanotechnologies are effective strategies for synergistic influence and detoxification to alleviate the main obstacles that toxicity, low bioavailability, and poor permeability. This review can assist further research and advances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruolian Cao
- Department of Natural Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Yuanyuan Wang
- Department of Natural Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Ya Zhou
- Department of Natural Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Jiaxin Zhu
- Department of Natural Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Kexin Zhang
- Department of Natural Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Wenyuan Liu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Feng Feng
- Department of Natural Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China; Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211198, China
| | - Wei Qu
- Department of Natural Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China.
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Verma M, Chopra M, Kumar H. Unraveling the Potential of EphA4: A Breakthrough Target and Beacon of Hope for Neurological Diseases. Cell Mol Neurobiol 2023; 43:3375-3391. [PMID: 37477786 DOI: 10.1007/s10571-023-01390-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023]
Abstract
Erythropoietin-producing hepatocellular carcinoma A4 (EphA4) is a transmembrane receptor protein which is a part of the most prominent family of receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs). It serves a crucial role in both physiological, biological, and functional states binding with their ligand like Ephrins. Its abundance in the majority of the body's systems has been reported. Moreover, it draws much attention in the CNS since it influences axonal and vascular guidance. Also, it has a widespread role at the pathological state of various CNS disorders. Reports suggest it obstructs axonal regeneration in various neurodegenerative diseases and neurological disorders. Although, neuro-regeneration is still an open challenge to the modern drug discovery community. Hence, in this review, we will provide information about the role of EphA4 in neurological diseases by which it may emerge as a therapeutic target for CNS disease. We will also provide a glance at numerous signaling pathways that activate or inhibit the EphA4-associated biological processes contributing to the course of neurodegenerative diseases. Thus, this work might serve as a basis for futuristic studies that are related to the target-based drug discovery in the field of neuro-regeneration. Pathological and physiological events associated with EphA4 and Ephrin upregulation and interaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meenal Verma
- National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Ahmedabad, Opposite Air Force Station, Palaj, Gandhinagar, Gujarat, 382355, India
| | - Manjeet Chopra
- National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Ahmedabad, Opposite Air Force Station, Palaj, Gandhinagar, Gujarat, 382355, India
| | - Hemant Kumar
- National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Ahmedabad, Opposite Air Force Station, Palaj, Gandhinagar, Gujarat, 382355, India.
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Li W, Rang Y, Liu H, Liu C. Update on new trends and progress of natural active ingredients in the intervention of Alzheimer's disease, based on understanding of traditional Chinese and Western relevant theories: A review. Phytother Res 2023; 37:3744-3764. [PMID: 37380605 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.7908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2022] [Revised: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is one of the major neurological disorders causing death in the elderly worldwide. As a neurodegenerative disease that is difficult to prevent and cure, the pathogenesis of AD is complex and there is no effective cure. A variety of natural products derived from plants have been reported to have promising anti-AD activities, including flavonoids, terpenes, phenolic acids and alkaloids, which can effectively relieve the symptoms of AD in a variety of ways. This paper mainly reviews the pharmacological activity and mechanisms of natural products against AD. Although the clinical efficacy of these plants still needs to be determined by further high-quality studies, it may also provide a basis for future researchers to study anti-AD in depth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiye Li
- College of Food Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
- The Key Laboratory of Food Quality and Safety of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yifeng Rang
- College of Food Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
- The Key Laboratory of Food Quality and Safety of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, China
| | - Huan Liu
- College of Food Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
- The Key Laboratory of Food Quality and Safety of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chunhong Liu
- College of Food Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
- The Key Laboratory of Food Quality and Safety of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, China
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Wastag M, Bieżuńska-Kusiak K, Szewczyk A, Szlasa W, Grimling B, Kulbacka J. Celastrol and Rhynchophylline in the mitigation of simulated muscle atrophy under in vitro. Saudi Pharm J 2022; 30:1387-1395. [PMID: 36387339 PMCID: PMC9649342 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsps.2022.06.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 06/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Muscular atrophy (MA) is a disease of various origins, i.e., genetic or the most common, caused by mechanical injury. So far, there is no universal therapeutic model because this disease is often progressive with numerous manifested symptoms. Moreover, there is no safe and low-risk therapy dedicated to muscle atrophy. For this reason, our research focuses on finding an alternative method using natural compounds to treat MA. This study proposes implementing natural substances such as celastrol and Rhynchophylline on the cellular level, using a simulated and controlled atrophy process. Methods: Celastrol and Rhynchophylline were used as natural compounds against simulated atrophy in C2C12 cells. Skeletal muscle C2C12 cells were stimulated for the differentiation process. Atrophic conditions were obtained by the exposure to the low concertation of doxorubicin and validated by FoxO3 and MAFbx. The protective and regenerative effect of drugs on cell proliferation was determined by the MTT assay and MT-CO1, VDAC1, and prohibitin expression. Results: The obtained results revealed that both natural substances reduced atrophic symptoms. Rhynchophylline and celastrol attenuated atrophic cells in the viability studies, morphology analysis by diameter measurements, modulated prohibitin VDAC, and MT-CO1 expression. Conclusions: The obtained results revealed that celastrol and Rhynchophylline could be effectively used as a supportive treatment in atrophy-related disorders. Thus, natural drugs seem promising for muscle regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maksymilian Wastag
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Wroclaw Medical University, Borowska 211A, 50-556, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Bieżuńska-Kusiak
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Wroclaw Medical University, Borowska 211A 50-556, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Anna Szewczyk
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Wroclaw Medical University, Borowska 211A 50-556, Wroclaw, Poland
- Department of Animal Developmental Biology, Institute of Experimental Biology, University of Wroclaw, Sienkiewicza 21, 50-335 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Wojciech Szlasa
- Faculty of Medicine, Wroclaw Medical University, Pasteura 1, 50-367 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Bożena Grimling
- Department of Drug Form Technology, Wroclaw Medical University, Borowska 211 A, 50-556 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Julita Kulbacka
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Wroclaw Medical University, Borowska 211A 50-556, Wroclaw, Poland
- Corresponding author at: Borowska 211A, 50-556 Wroclaw, Poland.
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Deng L, Yi S, Yin X, Li Y, Luan Q. MFN2 knockdown promotes osteogenic differentiation of iPSC-MSCs through aerobic glycolysis mediated by the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. Stem Cell Res Ther 2022; 13:162. [PMID: 35413941 PMCID: PMC9006575 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-022-02836-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2021] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Mitofusin-2 (MFN2) is a kind of GTPase that participates in the regulation of mitochondrial fusion, which is related to a variety of physiological and pathological processes, including energy metabolism, cell differentiation, and embryonic development. However, it remains unclear whether MFN2 is involved in the metabolism and osteogenic differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). Methods MFN2 knockdown (MFN2-KD) and MFN2-overexpressing (MFN2-OE) induced pluripotent stem cell-derived mesenchymal stem cells (iPSC-MSCs) were constructed by lentivirus. The commercial kits were utilized to detect the glycolysis and oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) rate. Flow cytometry, Western blot, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), RNA-seq, immunofluorescence, and immunoprecipitation were employed for phenotype and molecular mechanism assessment. Results We demonstrated that MFN2 and Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway regulated glycolysis of iPSC-MSCs. The lack of MFN2 promoted the osteogenic differentiation of iPSC-MSCs, and aerobic glycolysis in the presence of sufficient oxygen, which increased glucose consumption and lactic acid production, as well as the glycolytic enzyme activity and gene expression. Inhibiting the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway normalized the enhanced glycolytic rate and osteogenic differentiation of MFN2-KD iPSC-MSCs. MFN2-OE iPSC-MSCs displayed the opposite phenotype. Conclusions Downregulating MFN2 promotes osteogenic differentiation of iPSC-MSCs through aerobic glycolysis mediated by the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. Our research reveals the new function of MFN2 in regulating the osteogenic differentiation and energy metabolism of MSCs, which will provide a new therapeutic target and theoretical basis for alveolar bone repair and periodontal regenerative treatment. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13287-022-02836-w.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lidi Deng
- Department of Periodontology, Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology & National Center of Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & National Engineering Laboratory for Digital and Material Technology of Stomatology & Beijing Key Laboratory of Digital Stomatology & Research Center of Engineering and Technology for Computerized Dentistry Ministry of Health & NMPA Key Laboratory for Dental Materials, No. 22, Zhongguancun South Avenue, Haidian District, Beijing, 100081, People's Republic of China
| | - Siqi Yi
- Department of Periodontology, Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology & National Center of Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & National Engineering Laboratory for Digital and Material Technology of Stomatology & Beijing Key Laboratory of Digital Stomatology & Research Center of Engineering and Technology for Computerized Dentistry Ministry of Health & NMPA Key Laboratory for Dental Materials, No. 22, Zhongguancun South Avenue, Haidian District, Beijing, 100081, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaohui Yin
- Department of First Clinical Division, Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology & National Center of Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & National Engineering Laboratory for Digital and Material Technology of Stomatology & Beijing Key Laboratory of Digital Stomatology & Research Center of Engineering and Technology for Computerized Dentistry Ministry of Health & NMPA Key Laboratory for Dental Materials, No. 22, Zhongguancun South Avenue, Haidian District, Beijing, 100081, People's Republic of China
| | - Yang Li
- Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Stem Cell Research Center, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, People's Republic of China.
| | - Qingxian Luan
- Department of Periodontology, Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology & National Center of Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & National Engineering Laboratory for Digital and Material Technology of Stomatology & Beijing Key Laboratory of Digital Stomatology & Research Center of Engineering and Technology for Computerized Dentistry Ministry of Health & NMPA Key Laboratory for Dental Materials, No. 22, Zhongguancun South Avenue, Haidian District, Beijing, 100081, People's Republic of China.
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Geetha RG, Ramachandran S. Recent Advances in the Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Plant-Derived Alkaloid Rhynchophylline in Neurological and Cardiovascular Diseases. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:pharmaceutics13081170. [PMID: 34452133 PMCID: PMC8400357 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13081170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2021] [Revised: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 07/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Rhynchophylline (Rhy) is a plant-derived indole alkaloid isolated from Uncaria species. Both the plant and the alkaloid possess numerous protective properties such as anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, anti-hypertensive, anti-rhythmic, and sedative effects. Several studies support the significance of the anti-inflammatory activity of the plant as an underlying mechanism for most of the pharmacological activities of the alkaloid. Rhy is effective in protecting both the central nervous system and cardiovascular system. Cerebro-cardiovascular disease primarily occurs due to changes in lifestyle habits. Many previous studies have highlighted the significance of Rhy in modulating calcium channels and potassium channels, thereby protecting the brain from neurodegenerative diseases and related effects. Rhy also has anticoagulation and anti-platelet aggregation activity. Although Rhy has displayed its role in protecting the cardiovascular system, very little is explored about its intervention in early atherosclerosis. Extensive studies are required to understand the cardioprotective effects of Rhye. This review summarized and discussed the various pharmacological effects of Rhy in neuro- and cardioprotection and in particular the relevance of Rhy in preventing early atherosclerosis using Rhy-loaded nanoparticles.
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Cellular Effects of Rhynchophylline and Relevance to Sleep Regulation. Clocks Sleep 2021; 3:312-341. [PMID: 34207633 PMCID: PMC8293156 DOI: 10.3390/clockssleep3020020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2021] [Revised: 05/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Uncaria rhynchophylla is a plant highly used in the traditional Chinese and Japanese medicines. It has numerous health benefits, which are often attributed to its alkaloid components. Recent studies in humans show that drugs containing Uncaria ameliorate sleep quality and increase sleep time, both in physiological and pathological conditions. Rhynchophylline (Rhy) is one of the principal alkaloids in Uncaria species. Although treatment with Rhy alone has not been tested in humans, observations in rodents show that Rhy increases sleep time. However, the mechanisms by which Rhy could modulate sleep have not been comprehensively described. In this review, we are highlighting cellular pathways that are shown to be targeted by Rhy and which are also known for their implications in the regulation of wakefulness and sleep. We conclude that Rhy can impact sleep through mechanisms involving ion channels, N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptors, tyrosine kinase receptors, extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERK)/mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK), phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/RAC serine/threonine-protein kinase (AKT), and nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) pathways. In modulating multiple cellular responses, Rhy impacts neuronal communication in a way that could have substantial effects on sleep phenotypes. Thus, understanding the mechanisms of action of Rhy will have implications for sleep pharmacology.
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Mohi-Ud-Din R, Mir RH, Shah AJ, Sabreen S, Wani TU, Masoodi MH, Akkol EK, Bhat ZA, Khan H. Plant-Derived Natural Compounds for the treatment of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: An Update. Curr Neuropharmacol 2021; 20:179-193. [PMID: 33913406 PMCID: PMC9199545 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x19666210428120514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2020] [Revised: 03/14/2021] [Accepted: 04/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a motor neuron disease (MND) that typically causes death within 3-5 years after diagnosis. Regardless of the substantial scientific knowledge accrued more than a century ago, truly effective therapeutic strategies remain distant. Various conventional drugs are being used but are having several adverse effects. Objective/Aim The current study aims to thoroughly review plant-derived compounds with well-defined ALS activities and their structure-activity relationships. Moreover, the review also focuses on complex genetics, clinical trials, and the use of natural products that might decrypt the future and novel therapeutics in ALS. Methods The collection of data for the compilation of this review work was searched in PubMed Scopus, Google Scholar, and Science Direct. Results Results showed that phytochemicals like-Ginkgolides, Protopanaxatriol, Genistein, epigallocatechingallate, resveratrol, cassoside, and others possess Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) activity by various mechanisms. Conclusion These plant-derived compounds may be considered as supplements for conventional (ALS). Moreover, further preclinical and clinical studies are required to understand the structure-activity relationships, metabolism, absorption, and mechanisms of plant-derived natural agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roohi Mohi-Ud-Din
- Pharmacognosy & Phytochemistry Division, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Kashmir, Hazratbal, Srinagar, 190006, Kashmir, India
| | - Reyaz Hassan Mir
- Pharmaceutical Chemistry Division, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Kashmir, Hazratbal, Srinagar-190006, Kashmir, India
| | - Abdul Jalil Shah
- Pharmaceutical Chemistry Division, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Kashmir, Hazratbal, Srinagar-190006, Kashmir, India
| | - Saba Sabreen
- Pharmaceutical Chemistry Division, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Kashmir, Hazratbal, Srinagar-190006, Kashmir, India
| | - Taha Umair Wani
- Pharmaceutics Division, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Kashmir, Hazratbal, Srinagar-190006, Kashmir, India
| | - Mubashir Hussain Masoodi
- Pharmaceutical Chemistry Division, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Kashmir, Hazratbal, Srinagar-190006, Kashmir, India
| | - Esra Küpeli Akkol
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Gazi University, 06330, Ankara. Turkey
| | - Zulfiqar Ali Bhat
- Pharmacognosy & Phytochemistry Division, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Kashmir, Hazratbal, Srinagar, 190006, Kashmir, India
| | - Haroon Khan
- Department of Pharmacy, Abdul Wali Khan University, Mardan, 23200. Pakistan
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Sadanandan N, Saft M, Gonzales-Portillo B, Borlongan CV. Multipronged Attack of Stem Cell Therapy in Treating the Neurological and Neuropsychiatric Symptoms of Epilepsy. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:596287. [PMID: 33815100 PMCID: PMC8010689 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.596287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2020] [Accepted: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Epilepsy stands as a life-threatening disease that is characterized by unprovoked seizures. However, an important characteristic of epilepsy that needs to be examined is the neuropsychiatric aspect. Epileptic patients endure aggression, depression, and other psychiatric illnesses. Therapies for epilepsy can be divided into two categories: antiepileptic medications and surgical resection. Antiepileptic drugs are used to attenuate heightened neuronal firing and to lessen seizure frequency. Alternatively, surgery can also be conducted to physically cut out the area of the brain that is assumed to be the root cause for the anomalous firing that triggers seizures. While both treatments serve as viable approaches that aim to regulate seizures and ameliorate the neurological detriments spurred by epilepsy, they do not serve to directly counteract epilepsy's neuropsychiatric traits. To address this concern, a potential new treatment involves the use of stem cells. Stem cell therapy has been employed in experimental models of neurological maladies, such as Parkinson's disease, and neuropsychiatric illnesses like depression. Cell-based treatments for epilepsy utilizing stem cells such as neural stem cells (NSCs), mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), and interneuron grafts have been explored in preclinical and clinical settings, highlighting both the acute and chronic stages of epilepsy. However, it is difficult to create an animal model to capitalize on all the components of epilepsy due to the challenges in delineating the neuropsychiatric aspect. Therefore, further preclinical investigation into the safety and efficacy of stem cell therapy in addressing both the neurological and the neuropsychiatric components of epilepsy is warranted in order to optimize cell dosage, delivery, and timing of cell transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Cesar V. Borlongan
- Department of Neurosurgery and Brain Repair, University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine, Tampa, FL, United States
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Qin N, Lu X, Liu Y, Qiao Y, Qu W, Feng F, Sun H. Recent research progress of Uncaria spp. based on alkaloids: phytochemistry, pharmacology and structural chemistry. Eur J Med Chem 2020; 210:112960. [PMID: 33148492 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2020.112960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2020] [Revised: 10/16/2020] [Accepted: 10/18/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Medicinal plants are well-known in affording clinically useful agents, with rich medicinal values by combining with disease targets through various mechanisms. Plant secondary metabolites as lead compounds lay the foundation for the discovery and development of new drugs in disease treatment. Genus Uncaria from Rubiaceae family is a significant plant source of active alkaloids, with anti-hypertensive, sedative, anti-Alzheimer's disease, anti-drug addiction and anti-inflammatory effects. This review summarizes and discuss the research progress of Uncaria based on alkaloids in the past 15 years, mainly in the past 5 years, including biosynthesis, phytochemistry, pharmacology and structural chemistry. Among, focusing on representative compounds rhynchophylline and isorhynchophylline, the pharmacological activities surrounding the central nervous system and cardiovascular system are described in detail. On the basis of case studies, this article provides a brief overview of the synthesis and analogues of representative compounds types. In summary, this review provides an early basis for further searching for new targets and activities, discussing the mechanisms of pharmacological activity and studying the structure-activity relationships of active molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nan Qin
- Department of Natural Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, People's Republic of China
| | - Xin Lu
- School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, People's Republic of China
| | - Yijun Liu
- School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuting Qiao
- School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, People's Republic of China
| | - Wei Qu
- Department of Natural Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, People's Republic of China
| | - Feng Feng
- Department of Natural Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, People's Republic of China; Jiangsu Food and Pharmaceutical Science College, Huaian, 223003, People's Republic of China.
| | - Haopeng Sun
- School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, People's Republic of China; Jiangsu Food and Pharmaceutical Science College, Huaian, 223003, People's Republic of China.
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