Topical application of Kochia scoparia inhibits the development of contact dermatitis in mice

Network pharmacology and in silico analysis reveal Kochiae Fructus as a potential therapeutic against atopic dermatitis through immunomodulatory pathway interactions

Atopic dermatitis (AD), a chronic inflammatory disorder, poses significant therapeutic challenges owing to its complex pathophysiology, involving disrupted epidermal barrier function and immune dysregulation. This study investigated the therapeutic potential of Kochiae Fructus in AD treatment using bioinformatics, including network pharmacology and molecular docking techniques. We identified 19 key phytochemicals from Kochiae Fructus and 268 potential targets using the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology Database (TCMSP) and SwissTarget Prediction. Using GeneCards, 1786 AD-related genes were retrieved, resulting in 116 intersecting gene targets for further analysis. Protein-protein interaction (PPI) networks and Molecular Complex Detection (MCODE) analyses highlighted 78 anti-AD key targets, including SRC, MAPK3, MAPK1, JUN, PIK3CA, ESR1, PTGS2, PTPN11, IL-6, and ALOX5, among the top ten anti-AD core targets. Gene ontology (GO) enrichment analysis revealed that Kochiae Fructus affects biological processes and molecular functions, such as positive regulation of the apoptotic response, inflammatory response, and hormone-mediated signaling pathways, which may be associated with its anti-AD effects. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis showed that the C-type lectin receptor signaling pathway is the main pathway involved in the anti-AD effects of Kochiae Fructus, which interacts with a notably larger number of anti-AD core targets and plays a direct role in intensifying crucial inflammatory and immune responses in the heart of AD pathogenesis. Molecular docking demonstrated robust binding affinities of key phytochemicals, particularly ecdysterone and 11,14-eicosadienoic acid, to the anti-AD core targets. Molecular dynamics simulations of over 1000 ns confirmed the stability and potential efficacy of these interactions. Hence, this study underscores the therapeutic potential of Kochiae Fructus in AD management, offering a mechanistic basis for its clinical application and paving the way for novel anti-AD strategies that leverage TCM phytochemicals.

Fractionation and identification of ocular protective compounds from kochiae fructus against oxidative damage in retinal pigment epithelium cells

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Kochiae Fructus, the ripe fruit of Kochia scoparia, is a traditional Chinese medicine commonly used to treat eye discomforts and vision problems. Although Kochiae Fructus is mentioned in many classical Chinese medical texts, its protective effects and the roles of its active phytochemicals in eye treatment still lack scientific exploration.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study aimed to clarify the protective effects and identify the active fractions and compounds of Kochiae Fructus against oxidative stress-induced retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cell death.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Liquid-liquid partitioning was employed to prepare active fractions. Silica gel, RP-18, and Sephadex™ LH-20 gels were used as stationary phases to purify the compounds through column chromatography. Cell models were established by treating ARPE-19 (RPE cell line) with hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) and tert-butyl hydroperoxide (TBHP), respectively.

RESULTS

The methanol aqueous fraction from ethyl acetate-soluble extract (KSEM) alleviated oxidant-induced RPE cell death in a dose-dependent manner and activated the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway, a critical defense mechanism against oxidative damage. The isolated flavonols in fraction KSEM, hyperoside, quercetin, and kaempferol, reduced oxidant-induced cell mortality, with quercetin showing the strongest effect. Moreover, combination treatment revealed that hyperoside and kaempferol synergistically enhanced the protective effects of quercetin, making the combined treatment more efficient than quercetin alone.

CONCLUSIONS

The protective effects of Kochiae Fructus against oxidative damage in RPE cell was validated with the KSEM fraction. The compound quercetin was identified as the important contributor. However, the synergistic effect of the hyperoside, quercetin, and kaempferol mixture may play a dominant role in the protective action of Kochiae Fructus. Overall, these findings highlight the potential of Kochiae Fructus and its flavonol mixture as a basis for developing treatments targeting ocular diseases associated with oxidative damage in retina.

Chinese herbal medicine bath therapy for psoriasis vulgaris using topical calcipotriol as the comparator: A systematic review with meta-analysis and association rule analysis

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease. Vitamin D analogues are the first-line topical agents for the long-term management of psoriasis. Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) bath therapy is commonly employed for psoriasis. However, the effects and safety of CHM bath therapy for psoriasis vulgaris, using topical calcipotriol as the comparator, remain inconclusive. Furthermore, the combination of herbs, a distinctive feature of CHM, is essential for its therapeutic effects due to the individual and synergistic properties of the herbs involved.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The review was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of CHM bath therapy for psoriasis vulgaris, using calcipotriol as the comparator. Potential herbs and herb combinations of CHM bath therapy were also explored for further drug discovery.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Nine databases were searched from inception until March 05, 2024. Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) investigating CHM bath therapy, using calcipotriol as the comparator, were included. Statistical analyses were performed using RevMan 5.4, Stata 12.0 and SPSS Clementine 12.0 software. The evidence certainty for outcomes was assessed using the approach proposed by the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) Working Group. Moreover, association rule analysis on herbs identified in the systematic review was conducted to explore the potential herbs and herb combinations.

RESULTS

A total of 17 RCTs involving 1,379 participants were included in this systematic review. The findings of this review revealed that: 1) CHM bath therapy produced comparable effects to calcipotriol in reducing Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI), Psoriasis Scalp Severity Index (PSSI), and itch visual analogue scale (VAS) at the end of the treatment phase; as well as exhibited a superior long-term effect than calcipotriol through decreasing relapse rates at the end of the follow-up phase; 2) CHM bath therapy showed an additional benefit when combined with calcipotriol in managing psoriasis vulgaris at the end of the treatment phase, in terms of PASI, PSSI, itch VAS, IL-17, IL-23, CD3+ and CD4+ T cells. The certainty of the evidence was rated as 'very low', 'low' or 'moderate' based on the GRADE assessment, considering some concerns or high risk of bias of included studies, substantial heterogeneity, and existing publication bias of some outcomes. Additionally, the proportions of participants reporting adverse events were similar in both groups. Association rule analysis of all included herbs identified 23 herb combinations including Prunus persica (L.) Batsch and Carthamus tinctorius L., as well as 11 frequently used herbs, such as Kochia scoparia (L.) Schrad., Dictamnus dasycarpus Turcz. And Sophora flavescens Ait.

CONCLUSIONS

The effects of CHM bath therapy were comparable with those of topical calcipotriol but demonstrated a longer-lasting effect. Combining CHM bath therapy with calcipotriol also provided an additional benefit for adult psoriasis vulgaris. However, the certainty of the evidence was downgraded due to the methodological limitations of included studies. To confirm the findings of this review, future investigations should involve double-blinded, placebo-controlled RCTs. Importantly, it appears worthwhile to consider further research for drug development utilising the identified herbs or herb combinations.

Adding Chinese herbal medicine bath therapy to conventional therapies for psoriasis vulgaris: A systematic review with meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials

BACKGROUND

Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) bath is commonly used in China as an adjuvant therapy for managing psoriasis vulgaris. Previous systematic reviews showed that CHM bath therapy was effective and safe for psoriasis vulgaris, however, without exploration of the specifics of CHM bath therapy such as the optimal temperature, duration of each session, and the total treatment duration.

PURPOSE

To evaluate the add-on effects of CHM bath therapy to conventional therapies for adult psoriasis vulgaris.

METHODS

We conducted a comprehensive search in nine medical databases from inception to September 2022 to identify relevant randomised controlled trials (RCTs) published in Chinese or English. The included studies compared the combination of CHM bath therapy and conventional therapies to conventional therapies alone for adult psoriasis vulgaris. Methodological quality assessment of the included RCTs was performed using the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool 2 (RoB 2). Statistical analysis was carried out using RevMan 5.4, R 4.2.3 and Stata 12.0 software. The certainty of evidence of outcome measures was evaluated using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation Working Group (GRADE) system.

RESULTS

A total of 23 RCTs involving 2,183 participants were included in this systematic review. Findings suggested that the combination of CHM bath therapy and conventional therapies was more effective in reducing Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI), Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) and itch visual analogue scale, compared to using conventional therapies alone. These enhanced effects were notably observed when the CHM bath was set above 38 °C and had a duration of 20 and 30 min, as assessed by DLQI. Moreover, an eight-week treatment duration resulted in better effects for PASI compared to shorter durations. Additionally, the top ten frequently used herbs in the included studies were identified. Despite the findings, the certainty of evidence was rated as 'low' or 'moderate' based on the GRADE assessment, and significant heterogeneity was detected in subgroup and sensitivity analyses.

CONCLUSION

The CHM bath therapy combined with conventional therapies is more effective and safer than conventional therapies alone for adult psoriasis vulgaris. The results suggest a potential correlation between treatment effects and factors such as extended treatment duration, increased bath temperature, and longer bath sessions. However, the certainty of evidence was downgraded due to methodological limitations of the included studies. To confirm the findings of this systematic review, a double-blinded, placebo-controlled RCT is needed in the future.

Characterization of Different Inflammatory Skin Conditions in a Mouse Model of DNCB-Induced Atopic Dermatitis

The mouse model of 2,4-dinitrochlorbenzene (DNCB)-induced human-like atopic dermatitis (hlAD) has been widely used to test novel treatment strategies and compounds. However, the study designs and methods are highly diverse, presenting different hlAD disease patterns that occur after sensitization and repeated challenge with DNCB on dorsal skin. In addition, there is a lack of information about the progression of the disease during the experiment and the achieved pheno- and endotypes, especially at the timepoint when therapeutic treatment is initiated. We here examine hlAD in a DNCB-induced BALB/cJRj model at different timepoints: (i) before starting treatment with dexamethasone, representing a standard drug control (day 12) and (ii) at the end of the experiment (day 22). Both timepoints display typical AD-associated characteristics: skin thickening, spongiosis, hyper- and parakeratosis, altered cytokine and gene expression, increased lipid mediator formation, barrier protein and antimicrobial peptide abnormalities, as well as lymphoid organ hypertrophy. Increased mast cell infiltration into the skin and elevated immunoglobulin E plasma concentrations indicate a type I allergy response. The DNCB-treated skin showed an extrinsic moderate sub-acute hlAD lesion at day 12 and an extrinsic mild sub-acute to chronic pheno- and endotype at day 22 with a dominating Th2 response. A dependency of the filaggrin formation and expression in correlation to the disease severity in the DNCB-treated skin was found. In conclusion, our study reveals a detailed classification of a hlAD at two timepoints with different inflammatory skin conditions and pheno- and endotypes, thereby providing a better understanding of the DNCB-induced hlAD model in BALB/cJRj mice.

Comprehensive chemical profiling of Bassia indica Wight. aerial parts extract using UPLC-ESI-MS/MS, and its antiparasitic activity in Trichinella spiralis infected mice: in silico supported in vivo study

BACKGROUND

Trichinellosis is a public health threat infected both animals and humans as a result of eating undercooked meat. It caused by Trichinella spiralis that has widespread drug resistance and even developed many sophisticated strategies for their survival, this increases the demand in searching for new anthelmintic drugs from natural source.

METHODS

Our objectives were to test the in vitro and in vivo anthelmintic activity of Bassia indica BuOH frac., and to characterize its chemical composition using UPLC-ESI-MS/MS. Besides an in silico molecular docking study with the prediction of the PreADMET properties.

RESULTS

In vitro investigation of B. indica BuOH frac., showed severe destruction of the adult worm and larvae, marked cuticle swelling, areas with vesicles, blebs and loss of annulations. This was assured via in vivo study, which revealed a significant reduction (P < 0.05) in the mean adult worm count with efficacy of 47.8% along with a significant decrease (P < 0.001) in the mean larval count per gram muscle with efficacy 80.7%. Histopathological examinations of the small intestine and muscular sections showed marked improvement. In addition, immunohistochemical findings demonstrated that B. indica BuOH frac. depressed the proinflammatory cytokines expressions of TNF-α, which was obviously upregulated by T. spiralis. Precise chemical investigation of the BuOH frac. using UPLC-ESI-MS/MS resulted in the identification of 13 oleanolic type triterpenoid saponins; oleanolic acid 3-O-6´-O-methyl-β-D-glucurono-pyranoside (1), chikusetsusaponin-IVa (2) and its methyl ester (3), chikusetsusaponin IV (4) and its methyl ester (5), momordin-Ic (6) and its methyl ester (7), betavulgaroside-I (8), -II (9) -IV (10), -X (11), licorice-saponin-C₂ (12) and -J₂ (13). In addition, 6 more phenolics were identified as syringaresinol (14), 3,4-di-O-caffeoylquinic acid (15), 3-O-caffeoyl-4-O-dihydrocaffeoylquinic acid (16), 3,4-di-O-caffeoylquinic acid butyl ester (17), 3,5-di-O-galloyl-4-O-digalloylquinic acid (18) and quercetin 3-O-(6´´-feruloyl)-sophoroside (19). The auspicious anthelmintic activity was further ascertained using in silico molecular docking approach that targeted certain protein receptors (β-tubulin monomer, tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), cysteine protease (Ts-CF1), calreticulin protein (Ts-CRT)), all the docked compounds (1-19) fit into the binding site of the active pocket with binding affinities noteworthy than albendazole. In addition, ADMET properties, drug score and drug likeness were predicted for all compounds.

Network pharmacology and molecular docking-based investigations of Kochiae Fructus’s active phytomolecules, molecular targets, and pathways in treating COVID-19

COVID-19 disease is caused by SARS-CoV-2. Hyper-inflammation mediated by proinflammatory cytokines is humans’ primary etiology of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Kochiae Fructus is widely used in China as traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) to treat inflammatory diseases. Due to its anti-inflammatory properties, we hypothesized that Kochiae Fructus would be a promising therapeutic agent for COVID-19. The active phytomolecules, targets, and molecular pathways of Kochiae Fructus in treating COVID-19 have not been explored yet. Network pharmacology analysis was performed to determine the active phytomolecules, molecular targets, and pathways of Kochiae Fructus. The phytomolecules in Kochiae Fructus were retrieved from the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology (TCMSP) database, and their potential targets were predicted with the SwissTargetPrediction webserver. COVID-19-related targets were recovered from the GeneCards database. Intersecting targets were determined with the VENNY tool. The Protein-protein interaction (PPI) and Molecular Complex Detection (MCODE) network analyses were constructed using the Cytoscape software. Using the DAVID tool, gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis were performed on the intersecting targets. AutoDock Vina (version 1.2.0.) was used for molecular docking analysis. Six active phytomolecules and 165 their potential targets, 1,745 COVID-19-related targets, and 34 intersecting targets were identified. Network analysis determined 13 anti-COVID-19 core targets and three key active phytomolecules (Oleanolic acid, 9E,12Z-octadecadienoic acid, and 11,14-eicosadienoic acid). Three key pathways (pathways in cancer, the TNF signaling pathway, and lipid and atherosclerosis) and the top six anti-COVID-19 core targets (IL-6, PPARG, MAPK3, PTGS2, ICAM1, and MAPK1) were determined to be involved in the treatment of COVID-19 with active phytomolecules of Kochiae Fructus. Molecular docking analysis revealed that three key active phytomolecules of Kochiae Fructus had a regulatory effect on the identified anti-COVID-19 core targets. Hence, these findings offer a foundation for developing anti-COVID-19 drugs based on phytomolecules of Kochiae Fructus.

Inhibitory effect of Isatis tinctoria L. water extract on DNCB-induced atopic dermatitis in BALB/c mice and HaCaT cells

BACKGROUND

Isatis tinctoria L (PLG) is a medicinal herb from the roots of Isatis indigotica Fort (Family Cruciferae). Previous studies have shown that PLG has anti-inflammatory and therapeutic effects against conditions such as acute and chronic hepatitis, various respiratory inflammations, and cancer. The purpose of this study was to define the pharmacological effects of PLG on inflammatory reactions and skin hyperkeratosis, which are the main symptoms of atopic dermatitis (AD), in vivo and in vitro.

METHODS

For the AD in vivo experiment, 2,4-dinitrochlorobenzene (DNCB) induction and oral administration of PLG were performed on male BALB/c mice for four weeks. For in vitro experiments, keratinocytes were activated using TNF-α/IFN-γ in cultured human keratinocyte (HaCaT) cells. PLG inhibited inflammatory chemokine production and blocked the nuclear translocation of NF-κB p65 in activated keratinocytes.

RESULTS

As a result of oral administration of PLG, dermis and epidermis thickening, as well as eosinophil and mast cell infiltration, were attenuated in AD skin lesions. In addition, the levels of immunoglobulin E (IgE), pro-inflammatory cytokines, and the MAPK/NF-κB signaling pathway were decreased in serum and dorsal skin tissues. Furthermore, PLG inhibited inflammatory chemokine production and blocked the nuclear translocation of NF-κB p65 in activated keratinocytes. In addition, epigoitrin and adenosine, the standard compounds of PLG, were identified as candidate AD compounds.

CONCLUSIONS

These results indicate that PLG is a potent therapeutic agent for attenuating symptoms of AD.

Lycopus lucidus Turcz ameliorates DNCB‑induced atopic dermatitis in BALB/c mice

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory allergic skin disease, characterized by pruritic and eczematous skin lesions. Lycopus lucidus Turcz (LLT) is a perennial herb that has been reported to have various biological properties, including effects on blood circulation, as well as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-vascular inflammation and wound-healing effects. However, whether LLT improves dermatitis and the underlying mechanisms has yet to be determined. The aim of the present study was to determine whether LLT can improve 2,4-dinitrochlorobenzene (DNCB)-induced dermatitis and to verify the inhibitory effect of LLT on the expression of chemokines and pro-inflammatory cytokines in the HaCaT immortalized keratinocyte cell line. In addition, the anti-inflammatory function of LLT in RAW264.7 mouse macrophages was investigated. In the DNCB-induced AD mouse model, LLT inhibited infiltration by mast cells, eosinophils and CD8⁺ cells in the dorsal skin tissue of AD mice, and suppressed the expression of IgE and IL-6 in serum. In addition, LLT inhibited the phosphorylation of ERK and JNK, as well as NF-κB in skin tissue. In the HaCaT cell model induced by TNF-α/IFN-γ, LLT inhibited the expression of thymus and activation-regulated chemokine, granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1, TNF-α and IL-1β, whilst inhibiting the phosphorylation of NF-κB. In addition, in the lipopolysaccharide-induced RAW 264.7 cell inflammation model, LLT inhibited the expression of TNF-α and IFN-γ, the nuclear translocation of NF-κB and the phosphorylation of ERK and JNK. These results suggested that LLT may be a promising candidate for the treatment of inflammatory dermatitis.

Kochia scoparia Saponin Momordin Ic Modulates HaCaT Cell Proliferation and Apoptosis via the Wnt/β-Catenin Pathway

Psoriasis is a chronic, recurrent, immunoinflammatory disease. For a long period, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is considered a reliable alternative therapy for patients with psoriasis. Fructus Kochiae (or Kochia scoparia) and its principle saponin, Momordin Ic, have been reported to protect against inflammation. Herein, we demonstrated that Momordin Ic could inhibit HaCaT cell proliferation and enhance cell apoptosis. In the meantime, Momordin Ic alters Wnt/β-catenin pathway activation by affecting β-catenin nuclear distribution. The Wnt/β-catenin signaling activator LiCl partially reversed the effects of Momordin Ic on HaCaT phenotypes and the Wnt/β-catenin pathway factors. Altogether, we demonstrate the inhibitory effects of Momordin Ic, one of the major saponin constituents of Fructus Kochiae, on HaCaT cell proliferation and Momordin Ic-induced alteration within the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. Momordin Ic might act on HaCaT cells by modulating the Wnt/β-catenin pathway.

Atopic dermatitis: new insight into the etiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis and novel treatment strategies

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is the long-lasting chronic inflammatory skin condition associated with cutaneous hyper-reactivity and triggered by environmental factors. The attributes of AD include dry skin, pruritus, lichenification and frequent eczematous abrasions. This has a strong heritable aspect and typically occurs with asthma and allergic rhinitis. The complex pathological mechanism behind AD etiology is epidermal barrier destruction resulting in the lack of filaggrin protein that can induce inflammation and T-cell infiltration. T-helper 2 cell-mediated pathways also bear the responsibility of damage to the epidermal barrier. Certain causative factors for AD include microbial imbalance of skin microbiota, immunoglobulin-E-induced sensitization and neuro-inflammation. Numerous beneficial topical and oral treatments have been available to patients and there are even more drugs in the pipeline for the treatment of AD. Topical moisturizers, corticosteroids, anti-inflammatory agents such as calcineurin inhibitors, phototherapy, cAMP-specific 3, 5 half-cyclic phosphodiesterase 4 inhibitors and systemic immunosuppressants are widely available for AD treatments. Different positions and pathways inside the immune system including JAK-STAT, phosphodiesterase 4, aryl hydrocarbon receptor and T-helper 2 cytokines are targeted by above-mentioned drug treatments. Instead of the severe side effects of topical steroids and oral antihistamines, herbal plants and their derived phytoconstituents are commonly used for the treatment of AD. A clear understanding of AD's cellular and molecular pathogenesis through substantial advancement in genetics, skin immunology and psychological factors resulted in advancement of AD management. Therefore, the review highlights the recent advancements in the understanding of clinical features, etiology, pathogenesis, treatment and management and non-adherence to AD treatment.

Bassiamide A, a new alkaloid from xero-halophyte Bassia indica Wight

N-[(3-(3-methyl-1-oxo-butyl)amino)propyl]-3-(3,4-dihydroxyphenyl)prop-2-enamide (7), named 'Bassiamide A', a new alkaloid, together with six known compounds including one lignan (1) and five lignanamides (2-6), were isolated from the aerial parts of Bassia indica Wight. The study also reported an optimal separation of a rare occurring R-isomer lignanamide derivative (6) from a natural origin, in addition to its known corresponding S-isomer (5). Structures of isolated compounds were elucidated based on NMR spectroscopic data, HR-MS, and comparison with known related ones, and they were identified as syringaresinol (1), N-trans-feruloyl-3-methoxytyramine (2), N-trans-feruloyltyramine (3), S-(-)-N-trans-feruloyl normetanephrine (4), S-(-)-N-trans-feruloyl octopamine (5), R-(+)-N-trans-feruloyl octopamine (6). The isolated compounds were evaluated for their anti-acetylcholinesterase activity, and they showed weak inhibitory activity.

The formulae and biologically active ingredients of Chinese herbal medicines for the treatment of atopic dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common relapsing inflammatory skin disease characterized by severe pruritus that seriously affects the quality of patients' life. There is an increasingly large amount of research demonstrating that traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) including herbal formulae and bioactive ingredients exerts pharmacological effects on atopic dermatitis. It has been a long history of TCM being used to treat atopic dermatitis, especially in preventing disease recurrence, maintaining long-term remission, and reducing disease burden. Nowadays, both of TCM monomer preparations and traditional formulae are still widely used. This review focuses on TCM as well as its bioactive ingredients for the treatment of AD, from the perspectives of animal model construction, pharmacodynamic mechanisms and clinical studies of formulae. To be more specific, the regulation and molecular mechanisms of the herbal formulae and bioactive ingredients of TCM are investigated, and the latest clinical research on TCM formulae is discussed. Furthermore, it provides a summary of the strengths and utilities of TCM, and will be useful for doctors who use Chinese medicine for treatment or researchers who select candidates for clinical treatments or further high-quality clinical studies.

Effects of Angelica gigas Nakai as an Anti-Inflammatory Agent in In Vitro and In Vivo Atopic Dermatitis Models

We investigated the cellular and molecular mechanisms mediating the effects of Angelica gigas Nakai extract (AGNE) through the mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs)/NF-κB pathway using in vitro and in vivo atopic dermatitis (AD) models. We examined the effects of AGNE on the expression of proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines in human mast cell line-1 (HMC-1) cells. Compound 48/80-induced pruritus and 2,4-dinitrochlorobenzene- (DNCB-) induced AD-like skin lesion mouse models were also used to investigate the antiallergic effects of AGNE. AGNE reduced histamine secretion, production of proinflammatory cytokines including interleukin- (IL-) 1β, IL-4, IL-6, IL-8, and IL-10, and expression of cyclooxygenase- (COX-) 2 in HMC-1 cells. Scratching behavior and DNCB-induced AD-like skin lesions were also attenuated by AGNE administration through the reduction of serum IgE, histamine, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), IL-6 levels, and COX-2 expression in skin tissue from mouse models. Furthermore, these inhibitory effects were mediated by the blockade of the MAPKs and NF-κB pathway. The findings of this study proved that AGNE improves the scratching behavior and atopy symptoms and reduces the activity of various atopy-related mediators in HMC-1 cells and mice model. These results suggest the AGNE has a therapeutic potential in anti-AD.

Quantification Analysis and In Vitro Anti-Inflammatory Effects of 20-Hydroxyecdysone, Momordin Ic, and Oleanolic Acid from the Fructus of Kochia scoparia

Background:

The fructus of Kochia scoparia Schrader (Chenopodiaceae) is a traditional herbal medicine that has been used for treating gonorrhea and dermatitis.

Objective:

We investigated the anti-inflammatory activities of three marker compounds, including 20-hydroxyecdysone, momordin Ic, and oleanolic acid, from the fructus of K. scoparia.

Materials and Methods:

The simultaneous analysis of three components was performed using high-performance liquid chromatography and high-performance thin-layer chromatography. We evaluated the anti-inflammatory effects of the nine marker compounds by determining their anti-inflammatory activities in the murine macrophage cell line RAW 264.7.

Results:

Among three marker compounds, momordin Ic, but not 20-hydroxyecdysone and oleanolic acid, had inhibitory effects on the production of inflammatory cytokines tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) in LPS-treated RAW264.7 macrophages. The effects of three marker compounds on prostaglandin E₂(PGE₂) were also evaluated. All three compounds significantly reduced PGE₂ production in LPS-treated cells.

Conclusions:

We suggest that momordin Ic is the most potent phytochemical of the fructus of K. scoparia as an anti-inflammatory agent.

SUMMARY

Simultaneous analysis of three phenylpropanoids in the Kochia scoparia was established using HPLC-PDA system

The momordin Ic had inhibitory effects on production of inflammatory cytokines tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) in LPS-treated RAW264.7 macrophages

The momordin Ic, 20-hydroxyecdysone, and oleanolic acid significantly reduced PGE2 production in LPS-treated cells.

Abbreviations used: HPLC: High-performance liquid chromatography; TNF-α: Tumor necrosis factor alpha; IL-6: Interleukin-6; PGE²: Pro-inflammatory mediator prostaglandin E₂; LPS: Lipopolysaccharide.

Kochia scoparia induces apoptosis of oral cancer cells in vitro and in heterotopic tumors

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Kochia scoparia grows commonly in China, Japan, and Korea and its mature fruit has been used throughout the area in traditional medicine to treat diseases including skin problems and inflammatory and allergic disease. More importantly, Kochia scoparia has been prescribed to treat the malignant tumor of head and neck region and breast mass. Although it has been proposed as an anti-cancer agent for several cancers, its exact in vivo anti-cancer properties and the molecular mechanisms underlying its effects are poorly understood.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To evaluate the anti-cancer activity of the methanol extract of K. scoparia, mature fruit (MEKS) on oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) and to explore its mode of action.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

To assess proliferation inhibition and apoptosis induction by MEKS, MTT assays, cell analysis, ANNEXIN V and PI double staining, and Hoechst 33342 staining were performed. The activation of caspases and the MAP kinase p38 was evaluated using Western blot analysis. The anti-cancer properties of MEKS in vivo were elucidated in a heterotopic OSCC animal model.

RESULTS

After OSCC cells were treated with MEKS, the numbers of sub-G1 accumulated cells and apoptotic bodies increased, indicating that MEKS inhibited OSCC cell proliferation selectively through induction of apoptosis. Apoptosis of MEKS-treated OSCC cells was induced in a dose-dependent manner by caspase-3 and -9 activation. In addition, pretreatment with p38 inhibitor SB203580 in combination with MEKS significantly prevented MEKS-induced apoptosis in OSCC cells and also decreased cleaved capase 3, 9, and cleaved PARP activity in western blotting. MEKS treatment significantly increased the apoptosis of OSCC and inhibited tumour growth in our animal model.

CONCLUSION

Taken together, these results indicated that MEKS induced apoptosis of OSCC cells through caspase activation involving the p38 MAPK pathway. MEKS could be a promising anti-cancer candidate for OSCC treatment.

Traditional Chinese Medicine Use among Patients with Psoriasis in Taiwan: A Nationwide Population-Based Study

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has long been used for patients with psoriasis. This study aimed to investigate TCM usage in patients with psoriasis. We analyzed a cohort of one million individuals representing the 23 million enrollees randomly selected from the National Health Insurance Research Database in Taiwan. We identified 28,510 patients newly diagnosed with psoriasis between 2000 and 2010. Among them, 20,084 (70.4%) patients were TCM users. Patients who were female, younger, white-collar workers and lived in urbanized area tended to be TCM users. The median interval between the initial diagnosis of psoriasis to the first TCM consultation was 12 months. More than half (N = 11,609; 57.8%) of the TCM users received only Chinese herbal medicine. Win-qing-yin and Bai-xian-pi were the most commonly prescribed Chinese herbal formula and single herb, respectively. The core prescription pattern comprised Mu-dan-pi, Wen-qing-yin, Zi-cao, Bai-xian-pi, and Di-fu-zi. Patients preferred TCM than Western medicine consultations when they had metabolic syndrome, hepatitis, rheumatoid arthritis, alopecia areata, Crohn's disease, cancer, depression, fatty liver, chronic airway obstruction, sleep disorder, and allergic rhinitis. In conclusion, TCM use is popular among patients with psoriasis in Taiwan. Future clinical trials to investigate its efficacy are warranted.

Effect of Dangguibohyul-Tang, a Mixed Extract of Astragalus membranaceus and Angelica sinensis, on Allergic and Inflammatory Skin Reaction Compared with Single Extracts of Astragalus membranaceus or Angelica sinensis

Dangguibohyul-tang (DBT), herbal formula composed of Astragalus membranaceus (AM) and Angelica sinensis (AS) at a ratio of 5 : 1, has been used for the treatment of various skin diseases in traditional medicine. We investigated the effect of DBT on allergic and inflammatory skin reaction in atopic dermatitis-like model compared to the single extract of AM or AS. DBT treatment showed the remission of clinical symptoms, including decreased skin thickness and scratching behavior, the total serum IgE level, and the number of mast cells compared to DNCB group as well as the single extract of AM- or AS-treated group. Levels of cytokines (IL-4, IL-6, IFN-γ, TNF-α, and IL-1β) and inflammatory mediators (NF-κB, phospho-IκBα, and phospho-MAPKs) were significantly decreased in AM, AS, and DBT groups. These results demonstrated that AM, AS, and DBT may have the therapeutic property on atopic dermatitis by inhibition of allergic and inflammatory mediators and DBT formula; a mixed extract of AM and AS based on the herb pairs theory especially might be more effective on antiallergic reaction as compared with the single extract of AM or AS.

Topical formulation containing hesperidin methyl chalcone inhibits skin oxidative stress and inflammation induced by ultraviolet B irradiation

Skin exposure to UVB irradiation has increased significantly in recent years due to ozone depletion, and it represents the main cause of many skin diseases.

Anti-inflammatory activity of Kochia scoparia fruit on contact dermatitis in mice

The mature fruit of Kochia scoparia (L.) Schrad. is widely administered in China and Korea as a medicinal herb for treatment of skin diseases, diabetes mellitus and rheumatoid arthritis. The present study investigated the effects of methanol extracts of K. scoparia dried fruit (MEKS) on ear swelling, histopathological changes (such as epidermal acanthosis, spongiosis and immune cell infiltration) and cytokine production in 1-fluoro-2,4-dinitrofluorobenzene (DNFB)-induced contact dermatitis mice. Topical application of MEKS inhibited DNFB-induced ear thickness and weight increases, as well as DNFB-induced epidermal acanthosis, spongiosis and immune cell infiltration. In addition, treatment with MEKS significantly decreased the levels of tumor necrosis factor-α, interferon-γ and monocyte chemotactic protein-1 in inflamed tissues. These data indicate that the mature fruit of K. scoparia has the potential to be administered for the treatment of inflammatory skin diseases and that the anti-inflammatory action of K. scoparia is involved in the inhibition of type 1 T helper cell skewing reactions.

Sceptridium ternatum attenuates allergic contact dermatitis-like skin lesions by inhibiting T helper 2-type immune responses and inflammatory responses in a mouse model

BACKGROUND

Sceptridium ternatum (ST) is a medicinal herb used in folk remedies for the treatment of various disorders such as pertussis, allergic asthma, abdominalgia, diarrhea, and external use for wound healing. However, the biological and pharmacological activities of ST are not fully clarified besides anti-asthmatic effect.

OBJECTIVE

We studied a Sceptridium ternatum ethanol extract (ST) with respect to its anti-inflammatory and immune regulatory activities in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells, concanavalin A (conA)-stimulated BALB/c mice splenocytes, and a 2,4-dinitrochlorobenzene (DNCB)-induced allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) mouse model.

METHODS

RAW 264.7 cells were pretreated with ST for 1h and then stimulated with LPS. To determine the anti-inflammatory effects of ST, the production of nitric oxide (NO), interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) were measured using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). To determine its anti-allergic effects, splenocytes from BALB/c mice were incubated and stimulated with conA in the absence or presence of ST for 48h. The production of IL-4 and interferon (IFN)-γ in culture supernatants were evaluated by ELISA. To test the effects of ST on ACD, 100μL of 1% DNCB was applied to the dorsal skin of BALB/c mice for 2 weeks, and ST was administered 2 h before DNCB application. The thicknesses of the epidermis and dermis were determined by skin histological analysis. Serum immunoglobulin (Ig) E levels, the production of IL-1β, IL-4, and IL-6 in dorsal skin tissue, and T helper (Th) 2 cytokines production of CD4(+) T cells were analyzed by ELISA. The expression of nuclear transcription factor-κB (NF-κB) both in vitro and in vivo was determined via immunoblotting.

RESULTS

In RAW 264.7 cells, ST inhibited LPS-induced inflammation mediator production and NF-κB expression. ST upregulated IFN-γ production and downregulated IL-4 production in conA-stimulated splenocytes. ST application reduced the thicknesses of the epidermis and dermis by decreasing serum IgE level and the expressions of IL-1β, IL-4, IL-6, and NF-κB in the dorsal skin of the DNCB-induced ACD model mice. Furthermore, ST treated group showed reduction of the Th2 cytokines production in activated CD4(+) T cells.

CONCLUSION

These findings not only indicate that application of ST reduced skin thickening by regulating Th 2-type allergic responses and inhibiting expression of inflammatory mediators in a DNCB-induced ACD mouse model, but also suggest that Sceptridium ternatum is a natural option for the treatment of skin inflammation.