Andrographis paniculata (Burm.f.) Nees and its major constituent andrographolide as potential antiviral agents

Andrograpalides A-N, structurally diverse ent-labdane diterpenoids with anti-inflammatory activities from the leaves of Andrographis paniculata

Andrograpalides A-N (1-14), fourteen previously undescribed ent-labdane-type diterpenoids, together with a previously undescribed naturally occurring diterpenoid (15) and two known analogues (16-17), were isolated from the leaves of Andrographis paniculata. Their structures were unambiguously elucidated via extensive spectroscopic analysis, electronic circular dichroism analysis, and X-ray crystallographic studies. Structurally, compounds 1-8 and 16 are rare cases of 19-nor labdane-type diterpenoids with an unusual C19 carbon skeleton. Notably, compounds 1 and 2 feature an unusual hydroperoxy group at C-4. In addition, the isolated compounds were evaluated for their anti-inflammatory effects in lipopolysaccharide-induced RAW 264.7 cells. Compound 12 exhibited the most significant anti-inflammatory activity, as indicated by the lowest nitric oxide production rate, and the remarkable reduced protein expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase and cyclooxygenase-2.

Genome-wide identification and characterization of dicer-like genes in Andrographis paniculata (Burm. f.) Wall. ex Nees and their expression response to methyl jasmonate elicitation

Andrographis paniculata, commonly known as the "King of Bitters," is a medicinal plant valued for its bioactive diterpenoids, particularly andrographolides. Dicer-like (DCL) proteins are central to the miRNA pathway, processing precursor miRNAs into mature miRNAs that regulate gene expression. While miRNAs influence plant metabolism, their role in secondary metabolite biosynthesis in A. paniculata remains unexplored. This study identified and characterized five ApDCL genes, mapped to distinct chromosomes in A. paniculata. The structural analysis revealed that ApDCL3 contained the highest number of introns (24), whereas ApDCL2 had the fewest (10). Conserved RNA-processing domains were confirmed, and phylogenetic analysis revealed evolutionary conservation, showing that ApDCLs are closely related to the DCLs of Sesamum indicum and Salvia miltiorrhiza. Expression analysis showed ApDCL1 and ApDCL2 were predominantly expressed in roots, whereas ApDCL3, ApDCL4a, and ApDCL4b were more abundant in leaves. Methyl jasmonate treatment upregulated ApDCL3 (~ 3.5-fold) and ApDCL4a (~ 1.5-fold), but further research is needed to determine whether this response directly influences secondary metabolism or results from MeJ-induced stress. These findings provide a foundation for functional validation through gene knockdown, overexpression, and CRISPR-Cas-based genome editing to elucidate DCL-mediated regulatory mechanisms. Future research leveraging these insights could aid in modulating RNA silencing pathways to enhance the biosynthesis of pharmacologically significant metabolites in A. paniculata through biotechnological interventions.

Metabolomic Profiles and Differential Constituents of Andrographis paniculata (Burm. f.) in Different Growth Stages and Parts

Andrographis paniculata (Burm. f.) and its products have a long history of medicinal use in Asia. A. paniculata products are mainly made from the root extraction of stems, leaves and parts, but there may be differences in the proportion of different parts and different harvest times, which ultimately leads to certain differences in product quality. In this study, the chemical components and non-targeted metabolomics were characterized, and the characteristic compounds in different parts of A. paniculata at various growth stages were analyzed. By utilizing polygonal mass defect filtering, precursor ion lists, and a self-built compound library, a total of 225 components were identified in A. paniculata. Notably, spermidine derivatives and phosphatidylcholines were reported for the first time in this plant species. In total, 41 differential components were identified in different parts of A. paniculata. These findings provide scientific evidence for the selection of quality markers in A. paniculata and its products.

Eudragit S 100 Assisted Molecular Solid Dispersion of Andrographolide Tendered Augmented Drug Delivery and Apoptosis in Human Colon Cancer, HT-29 Cells

Colorectal cancer is the second most common cause of death due to growing incidence. Andrographolide (AGD) induces apoptosis in colorectal cancer cells; however, oral administration of AGD is associated with hindered aqueous solubility (3.29 ± 0.73-μg.mL-1) and bioavailability of 15.87 ± 3.84%. Therefore, in the current investigation, AGD was amalgamated with Eudragit S100 (EUS100) to engineer a molecular amorphous solid dispersion (EUSD). EUSD4, an optimized molecular solid dispersion showed ~ 5.90 and ~ 7.14-fold augmentations in solubility at pH ~ 6.8 and ~ 7.4, respectively as compared to AGD alone. The% assay and drug loading were respectively measured to be 96.01 ± 3.52% and 19.85 ± 0.65%. ATR and 1H-NMR spectroscopies confirmed that the -OH group of AGD formed an intermolecular hydrogen bond with the -C = O of EUS100. Moreover, a hallo pattern of PXRD, the disappearing of an endothermic peak in DSC, the absence of a birefringence pattern under polarized light, and disorders in the initial particle shape confirmed the amorphous state of EUSD4. In addition, a ~ 4.70- and ~ 2.94-fold enhancement in dissolution profile in simulated intestinal fluid (SIF, pH ~ 6.8) and simulated colonic fluid (SCF,pH ~ 7.4) of EUSD4 suggested amendment in the hydrophilicity, wettability properties, and dissolution rate. Furthermore, the IC50 of EUSD4 was ~ 1.42-fold higher than AGD, indicating improvement in anticancer efficacy against HT-29 cells. EUSD4 exhibited superior cytotoxicity over AGD owing to the induction of apoptotic cell death, mitochondrial membrane loss (ΔΨm), remarkable S-G2/M phase cell-cycle arrest and enhanced ROS generation in HT-29 cells. In conclusion, EUSD4 warrants further in-vivo antitumor testing under a set of stringent parameters against colorectal cancer.

Dehydroandrographolide succinate attenuates dexamethasone-induced skeletal muscle atrophy by regulating Akt/GSK3β and MuRF-1 pathways

Andrographis paniculata (AGPA) is known for its wide-ranging biological activities, including antiviral, antipyretic, and anticancer properties. However, its effects on muscle atrophy have not been well understood. This study investigates the impact of andrographolide (AD) and dehydroandrographolide succinate (DAS), key components of AGPA, on skeletal muscle atrophy using in vitro and in vivo models. We employed dexamethasone (DEX)-treated mice and C2C12 myotubes as models of skeletal muscle atrophy. While DAS and AD did not reverse the DEX-induced reduction in body weight, both compounds significantly restored grip strength in DEX-treated mice. Notably, DAS treatment, but not AD, markedly improved running speed, endurance time, and distance. Both DAS and AD enhanced lean muscle mass in the whole body, tibialis anterior (TA), and gastrocnemius (GS) muscles, as well as increased TA thickness, with DAS demonstrating superior efficacy compared to AD. In C2C12 myotubes treated with DEX, DAS and AD increased ATP production and myotube diameter. Mechanistically, both compounds upregulated phosphorylation of Akt and GSK3β and downregulated MuRF-1 expression. These results indicate that DAS and AD mitigate muscle atrophy via the Akt/GSK3β and MuRF-1 pathways, with DAS showing greater anti-atrophy efficiency. Thus, DAS emerges as a promising therapeutic candidate for the prevention of skeletal muscle atrophy.

Uncovering the pharmacological mechanism and the main herbal medicine contributing to the efficacy of Xiaoyanlidan Tablet (XYLDT) in treating cholestatic liver injury

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Xiaoyanlidan Tablet (XYLDT) is a Chinese patent medicine consisted of three traditional Chinese medicines (TCMs) including Andrographis Herba (AH), Linearstripe Rabdosia Herba (LRH) and Picrasmae Ramulus et Folium (PRF). In Chinese traditional medicine theory, XYLDT has the "heat-clearing, dampness-dispelling and gallbladder function promoting" properties, and was widely used in the clinic for decades to treat pain in the subcostal region or bitter taste in the mouth, which were induced by liver-gallbladder dampness-heat. Meanwhile, it was also used for the therapy of acute cholecystitis and cholangitis.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To explore the mechanism of XYLDT in alleviating the alpha-naphthylisothiocyanate (ANIT)-induced cholestatic liver injury (CLI), and to find out which TCM consisted in XYLDT contributed the most to the therapeutic efficacy of XYLDT.

METHODS

ANIT was orally given to mice to induce CLI in vivo. Each TCM in XYLDT alone, XYLDT-without one TCM or XYLDT was orally given to mice before or after ANIT administration. Serum biochemical indicators were measured by using commercial kits. Liver histopathology was observed. Clinical data analysis was used to predict molecules and signal pathways involved in the XYLDT-provided improvement on CLI, which was further verified by using RT-PCR and Western-blot assay.

RESULTS

The alleviation of XYLDT on ANIT-induced CLI was proved by the data of serum biochemical indicators and liver histological observation. Results from clinical data analysis indicated that XYLDT improved CLI via improving mitochondrial function, oxidative phosphorylation, oxidative stress. XYLDT reduced the ROS level, MDA content, and increased GSH content. Meanwhile XYLDT improved the level of Nrf2 into the nucleus and mRNA expression of Nqo1, Gclc, Gclm. Andrographis Herba was proved to be the most crucial for the XYLDT-provided therapeutic efficacy on CLI. Moreover, andrographolide and neoandrographolide, two main active compounds in Andrographis Herba, had the apparent anti-inflammatory ability in LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 cells. Andrographolide also promoted nuclear translocation activation of Nrf2 in antioxidant response elements (ARE)-luciferin transfected L-02 cells.

CONCLUSION

XYLDT alleviated the ANIT-induced CLI via improving oxidative stress and activated Nrf2-related signaling pathways. Andrographis Herba was important for the XYLDT-provided alleviation on CLI.

Andrographolide Sulfonates and Xiyanping: A Review of Chemical Composition, Pharmacological Activities, Clinical Applications, and Adverse Reactions

Andrographis paniculata is a plant of the Acanthaceae family and its primary bioactive constituent, andrographolide, exhibits a broad spectrum of pharmacological activities and notable clinical efficacy. However, its poor solubility and limited bioavailability pose significant challenges for therapeutic applications. To overcome these limitations, researchers have synthesized andrographolide sulfonates by reacting andrographolide with ethanol and sulfuric acid. This sulfonated derivative significantly enhances water solubility and bioavailability while retaining key pharmacological properties such as anti-inflammatory and antiviral activities. As a representative formulation, Xiyanping injection has been widely employed in the treatment of respiratory infections, pneumonia, and related conditions, playing a critical role during the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite its widespread application, there has yet to be a comprehensive review of its chemical composition and pharmacological mechanisms. Additionally, the safety of Xiyanping injection remains a topic of some debate. This review systematically examines the chemical composition, pharmacological activities, clinical applications, and adverse reactions of andrographolide sulfonates and their formulation in Xiyanping injection to provide a scientific basis for further research and applications, while also offering valuable insights for the development of similar sulfonated drugs.

Integrating Network Pharmacology and In vivo Experimental Validation to Reveal the Mechanism of FuZheng YiLiu Formula on Estrogen Receptor Positive Breast Cancer

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

FuZheng YiLiu Formula (FZYL) is a commonly used formula for postoperative estrogen receptor-positive (ER+) breast cancer and post-radiotherapy deficiency of both Qi and Yin. FZYL has been used in clinical practice for decades because of its ability to effectively improve the symptoms of deficiency in cancer patients. However, its mechanism needs to be further clarified. In this paper, we will observe the effect of FZYL on mice with ER+ breast cancer and explore the mechanism by which it improves the symptoms of ER+ breast cancer.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A tumor xenograft mouse model was established to detect tumor growth in vivo in order to evaluate the pharmacological effects of FZYL on ER+ breast cancer. The main targets of FZYL were identified by extracting the FZYL components and the corresponding potential target genes of breast cancer from the established database and constructing a proteinprotein interaction network of shared genes using the string database. GO functional annotation and KEGG pathway enrichment analysis were performed, and molecular docking, molecular dynamics simulations, western blotting analysis, and RT-qPCR were performed to confirm the validity of targets in the relevant pathways.

RESULTS

FZYL was able to significantly reduce the size of tumors in vivo and had a significant therapeutic effect on tumor xenograft mice. GO and KEGG pathway enrichment analyses indicated that the effects of FZYL may be mediated by oxidative stress levels, apoptotic signaling pathways, and cell cycle proliferation. By RT-qPCR and protein blotting assays, FZYL targeted the key targets of TP53, JUN, ESR1, RELA, MYC, and MAPK1 to exert its effects. The key active components of FZYL are quercetin, luteolin, stigmasterol, and glycitein. Molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation results further demonstrated that the key active components of FZYL are stably bound to the core targets.

CONCLUSION

In this study, the potential active ingredients, potential core targets, key biological pathways, and signaling pathways involved in the treatment of breast cancer with FZYL were identified, providing a theoretical basis for further anti ER+ breast cancer research.

Andrographolide: A promising therapeutic agent against organ fibrosis

Fibrosis is the terminal pathology of chronic illness in many organs, marked by excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix proteins. These changes influence organ function, ultimately resulting in organ failure. Although significant progress has been achieved in comprehending the molecular pathways responsible for fibrosis in the last decades, effective and approved clinical therapies for the condition are still lacking. Andrographolide is a diterpenoid isolated and purified mainly from the aboveground parts of the Andrographis paniculata plant, which possesses good effects of purging heat, detoxifying, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory. In-depth research has gradually confirmed the anticancer, antioxidant, antiviral and other effects of Andro so that it can play a preventive and therapeutic role in various diseases. Over the past few years, an increasing number of research findings have indicated that Andro exerts antifibrotic effects in various organs by acting on transforming growth factor-β/small mother against decapentaplegic protein, mitogen-activated protein kinases, nuclear factor-E2-related factor 2, nuclear factor kappa-B and other signalling molecules to inhibit inflammation, oxidative stress, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, fibroblast activation and collagen buildup. This review presents a compilation of findings regarding the antifibrotic impact of Andro in tissue and cell models in vitro and in vivo. Emphasis is placed on the potential therapeutic benefits of Andro in diseases related to organ fibrosis. Existing studies and cutting-edge technologies on Andro pharmacokinetics, toxicity and bioavailability are briefly discussed to provide evidence for accelerating its clinical conversion and adoption.

Time series analysis of uptake and translocation of Cd and expression of transporter genes in nine Andrographis paniculata accessions

Cadmium is a non-essential and toxic metal. Its presence in plants can have hazardous effects not only on the plants themselves but also on human health after consumption. A time-dependent experiment was conducted on nine accessions of A. paniculata (AP1, AP2, AP3, AP8, AP11, AP12, AP21, AP25, and CIM) in Cd-contaminated soil to understand the variability of Cd accumulation. The study examined the Cd uptake, translocation, antioxidant stress enzymes, ionic composition of root exudates, Cd bioavailability, and expression of transporter genes PCR, NRAMP, ABCC, HMA, and HIPP. Results demonstrated the lowest bio-concentration factor for Cd in AP1 and CIM (0.34-1.04). A significant increase in bio-concentration (6-37%), bioaccumulation (25-80%), and translocation (6-52%) of Cd was observed in nine accessions with time. However, AP1, AP8, AP11, and CIM demonstrated a significant decrease in bio-concentration (7-38%), bioaccumulation (14-50%), and translocation (8-45%) of Cd with time. The differential Cd uptake among the accessions was major associated with antioxidant enzyme activities, root exudates, Cd bioavailability, and biomass. The differential expression of Cd influx (ApNRAMP3 and ApNRAMP5) and efflux (ApPCR2, ApPCR6, ApPCR8, and ApPCR11) transporter genes was observed with time. According to the results, low accumulating accessions AP1, AP8, AP11, and CIM had higher biomass (10-46%) and lower Cd uptake (7-38%) than high accumulating accessions. These accessions also had minimal stress enzyme activities and a prevalence of cations in root exudates, which impeded Cd bioavailability (8-26%) and increased microbial biomass carbon (7-31%). The upregulation of ApPCR2, ApPCR6, ApPCR8, ApPCR11, ApHMA3, ApABCC3, ApABCC5, ApHIPP3.1, and ApHIPP3.2 while downregulation of ApNRAMP3, ApNRAMP5, and ApHMA1 genes further modulated Cd uptake and tolerance in low accumulating accessions.

Phytomedical compounds as promising therapeutic agents for COVID-19 targeting angiotensin-converting enzyme 2: a review

AIMS

The aim of the present review was to highlight natural product investigations in silico and in vitro to find plants and chemicals that inhibit or stimulate angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE-2).

BACKGROUND

The global reduction of incidents and fatalities attributable to infections with SARS-CoV-2 is one of the most public health problems. In the absence of specific therapy for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), phytocompounds generated from plant extracts may be a promising strategy worth further investigation, motivating researchers to evaluate the safety and anti-SARS-CoV-2 effectiveness of these ingredients.

OBJECTIVE

To review phytochemicals in silico for anti-SARS-CoV-2 activity and to assess their safety and effectiveness in vitro and in vivo.

METHODS

The present review was conducted using various scientific databases and studies on anti-SARS-CoV-2 phytochemicals were analyzed and summarized. The results obtained from the in silico screening were subjected to extraction, isolation, and purification. The in vitro studies on anti-SarcoV-2 were also included in this review. In addition, the results of this research were interpreted, analyzed, and documented on the basis of the bibliographic information obtained.

RESULTS

This review discusses recent research on using natural remedies to cure or prevent COVID-19 infection. The literature analysis shows that the various herbal preparations (extracts) and purified compounds can block the replication or entrance of the virus directly to carry out their anti-SARS-CoV-2 effects. It is interesting to note that certain items can prevent SARS-CoV-2 from infecting human cells by blocking the ACE-2 receptor or the serine protease TMPRRS2. Moreover, natural substances have been demonstrated to block proteins involved in the SARS-CoV-2 life cycle, such as papain- or chymotrypsin-like proteases.

CONCLUSION

The natural products may have the potential for use singly or in combination as alternative drugs to treat/prevent COVID-19 infection, including blocking or stimulating ACE-2. In addition, their structures may provide indications for the development of anti-SARS-CoV-2 drugs.

New labdane diterpenoids from Alpinia galanga: A new type of GLP-1 secretagogues targeting the PKA-CREB and PI3K-Akt signaling axes

Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) secretagogues are fascinating pharmacotherapies to overcome the defects of GLP-1 analogs and dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors in treating diabetes and obesity. To discover new GLP-1 secretagogues from natural sources, alpigalangols A-Q (1-17), 17 new labdane diterpenoids including four unusual nor-labdane and N-containing ones, were isolated from the fruits of Alpinia galanga. Most of the isolates showed GLP-1 promotive effects in NCl-H716 cells, of which compounds 3, 4, 12, and 14-17 were revealed with high promoting rates of 246.0%-413.8% at 50 µM. A mechanistic study manifested that the most effective compound 12 upregulated the mRNA expression of Gcg and Pcsk1, and the protein phosphorylation of PKA, CREB, and GSK3β, but was inactive on GPBAR and GPR119 receptors. Network pharmacology analysis indicated that the PI3K-Akt pathway was involved in the GLP-1 stimulation of 12, which was highly associated with AKT1, CASP3, PPARG, and ICAM1 proteins. This study suggests that A. galanga is rich in diverse labdane diterpenoids with GLP-1 promoting effects, representing a new type of antidiabetic candidates from natural sources.

Potential of traditional medicines in alleviating COVID-19 symptoms

This review discusses the prevention and treatment of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by infection with the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Mutations in its spike glycoprotein have driven the emergence of variants with high transmissibility and immune escape capabilities. Some antiviral drugs are ineffective against the BA.2 subvariant at the authorized dose. Recently, 150 natural metabolites have been identified as potential candidates for development of new anti-COVID-19 drugs with higher efficacy and lower toxicity than those of existing therapeutic agents. Botanical drug-derived bioactive molecules have shown promise in dampening the COVID-19 cytokine storm and thus preventing pulmonary fibrosis, as they exert a strong binding affinity for viral proteins and inhibit their activity. The Health Ministry of Thailand has approved Andrographis paniculata (Jap. Senshinren) extracts to treat COVID-19. In China, over 85% of patients infected with SARS-CoV-2 receive treatments based on traditional Chinese medicine. A comprehensive map of the stages and pathogenetic mechanisms related to the disease and effective natural products to treat and prevent COVID-19 are presented. Approximately 10% of patients with COVID-19 are affected by long COVID, and COVID-19 infection impairs mitochondrial DNA. As the number of agents to treat COVID-19 is limited, adjuvant botanical drug treatments including vitamin C and E supplementation may reduce COVID-19 symptoms and inhibit progression to long COVID.

The efficacy of azithromycin combined with seven types of Chinese medicine injections in the treatment of Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia in children: a systematic review and Bayesian network meta-analysis

Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia (MPP) is the predominant community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) in children aged 5 years or older. In recent decades, the annual increase in drug resistance rates of macrolide antibiotics, particularly azithromycin (AZ), has led to complex clinical treatment strategies and substantial healthcare costs associated with MPP. Chinese medicine injections (CMIs), recognized as an effective supplementary therapy, are acknowledged by clinicians in China. It is necessary to explore the efficacy of azithromycin in combination with CMIs.

Methods

Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating azithromycin in combination with seven types of CMIs for MPP in children were identified based on inclusion criteria and assessed using the revised Cochrane risk of bias tool (RoB 2.0). R 4.3.1 and STATA 15.0 were employed to generate ranking probabilities and perform network meta-analysis. Competing interventions were ranked using the surface under the cumulative ranking (SUCRA) probabilities.

Results

A comprehensive analysis was performed on 155 RCTs involving 15,014 patients and 8 therapeutic strategies within this Bayesian network meta-analysis (BNMA). The results indicated that AZ combined with seven types of CMIs was more effective than azithromycin alone in overall outcomes. Notably, azithromycin combined with Chuanhuning injection (AZ + CHN) achieved the highest ranking in improving the clinical effectiveness rate (SUCRA, 80.89%); regarding secondary outcome measures, azithromycin combined with Yanhuning injection (AZ + YHN) had the highest probability of improving four different outcomes: disappearance time of cough (SUCRA, 80.01%), disappearance time of pulmonary rale (SUCRA, 87.77%), disappearance time of fever (SUCRA, 95.70%), and disappearance time of pulmonary shadows in X-ray (SUCRA, 97.34%); furthermore, azithromycin combined with Qingkailing injection (AZ + QKL) was more likely to reduce average hospitalization time (SUCRA, 94.60%).

Conclusion

This study highlights the potential benefits of seven types of Chinese medicine injections as adjunctive therapy for Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia in children. However, further support and validation of these findings are needed through high-quality randomized controlled trials with larger sample sizes and double-blind designs.

Systematic Review Registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/#recordDetails/.

Terminalia bellirica and Andrographis paniculata dietary supplementation in mitigating heat stress-induced behavioral, metabolic and genetic alterations in broiler chickens

BACKGROUND

Heat stress (HS) is one of the most significant environmental stressors on poultry production and welfare worldwide. Identification of innovative and effective solutions is necessary. This study evaluated the effects of phytogenic feed additives (PHY) containing Terminalia bellirica and Andrographis paniculata on behavioral patterns, hematological and biochemical parameters, Oxidative stress biomarkers, and HSP70, I-FABP2, IL10, TLR4, and mTOR genes expression in different organs of broiler chickens under chronic HS conditions. A total of 208 one-day-old Avian-480 broiler chicks were randomly allocated into four treatments (4 replicate/treatment, 52 birds/treatment): Thermoneutral control treatment (TN, fed basal diet); Thermoneutral treatment (TN, fed basal diet + 1 kg/ton feed PHY); Heat stress treatment (HS, fed basal diet); Heat stress treatment (HS, fed basal diet + 1 kg/ton feed PHY).

RESULTS

The findings of the study indicate that HS led to a decrease in feeding, foraging, walking, and comfort behavior while increasing drinking and resting behavior, also HS increased red, and white blood cells (RBCs and WBCs) counts, and the heterophile/ lymphocyte (H/L) ratio (P < 0.05); while both mean corpuscular volume (MCV), and mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) were decreased (P < 0.05). In addition, HS negatively impacted lipid, protein, and glucose levels, liver and kidney function tests, and oxidative biomarkers by increasing malondialdehyde (MDA) levels and decreasing reduced glutathion (GSH) activity (P < 0.05). Heat stress (HS) caused the upregulation in HSP70, duodenal TLR4 gene expression, and the downregulation of I-FABP2, IL10, mTOR in all investigated tissues, and hepatic TLR4 (P < 0.05) compared with the TN treatment. Phytogenic feed additives (PHY) effectively mitigated heat stress's negative impacts on broilers via an improvement of broilers' behavior, hematological, biochemical, and oxidative stress biomarkers with a marked decrease in HSP70 expression levels while all tissues showed increased I-FABP2, IL10, TLR4, and mTOR (except liver) levels (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Phytogenic feed additives (PHY) containing Terminalia bellirica and Andrographis paniculata have ameliorated the HS-induced oxidative stress and improved the immunity as well as the gut health and welfare of broiler chickens.

Synthesis of novel pyrazole acetals of andrographolide and isoandrographolide as potent anticancer agents

Globally, cancer is the most prevalent chronic disease-related cause of death. Although there are many anticancer drugs, some of them have adverse effects. Due to their limited side effects, natural products are preferred over synthetic drugs. Andrographolide and its derivatives are known to be potent anticancer agents. In this context, sixteen novel 3,19-(NH-3-aryl-pyrazole) acetals of andrographolide and isoandrographolide (1a-1h, 2a-2g, 2i) from 3-aryl-1-H-pyrazole-4-carboxaldehydes (a-i) were synthesized. All the synthesized compounds were characterized using 1H NMR, 13C NMR, HRMS, FT-IR, and UV-vis spectroscopy. All the compounds were evaluated against a panel of 60 different human cancer cell lines for their anticancer potential at NCI, USA. Four compounds, having promising GI50s (50% growth inhibitory activity) on all 60-cell lines were selected for further in vitro studies. Out of these four compounds, compound 1g exhibited the best IC50 (3.08 μM) against the colon cancer cell line, HCT-116. Cell cycle analysis, annexin V-FITC/PI, and ROS assays revealed that the apoptosis of HCT-116 cells induced by compound 1g could be mainly attributed to the elevated levels of intracellular ROS. Further, the structure-activity relationship revealed that the pyrazole moiety of andrographolide plays a key role in their anticancer properties. These compounds were further examined for in silico ADMET and Lipinski characteristics to assess their potential as lead compounds.

Protective effect of andrographolide against ulcerative colitis by activating Nrf2/HO-1 mediated antioxidant response

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a recurring inflammatory bowel disease, in which oxidative stress plays a role in its progression, and regulation of the oxidative/antioxidative balance has been suggested as a potential target for the treatment of UC. The aim of this study was to evaluate the protective effect of andrographolide against UC and its potential antioxidant properties by modulating the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)/heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) pathway. Dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) -induced UC mice and the LPS-induced HT29 inflammatory cell model were established to uncover the potential mechanisms of andrographolide. ML385, a Nrf2 inhibitor, was used in both models to assess whether andrographolide exerts a protective effect against UC through the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway. The in vivo experiment showed that andrographolide ameliorated the symptoms and histopathology of DSS-induced mice and restored the expressions of ZO-1, Occludin-1 and Claudin-1. Meanwhile, DSS-induced oxidative stress and inflammation were suppressed by andrographolide treatment, along with the upregulation of key proteins in the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway. In vitro experiments showed that andrographolide attenuated LPS-induced excessive generation of ROS in HT29 cells, reduced inflammatory factors, and upregulated the expression of proteins related to tight junctions and Nrf2/HO-1 pathway. In addition, ML385 abolished the beneficial effect of andrographolide. In conclusion, the protective effect of andrographolide against UC may involve the suppression of oxidative stress and inflammation via the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway.

Commercial Chinese polyherbal preparation: current status and future perspectives

Objective

With the modernization of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) industry, the investment in research and development of new commercial Chinese polyherbal preparations (CCPPs) is increasing, and the varieties of CCPPs are growing. CCPPs play an increasingly important role in the TCM industry. This study has comprehensively summarized and analyzed the current situation of CCPPs that has been on the market in China, and provided suggestions for the research and promotion of CCPPs.

Methods

This study took the CCPPs approved for marketing in domestic drug database of the National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) as the research object, and combined with the publication of related randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of CCPPs in 2020-2022 and the sales of CCPPs in domestic chain pharmacies, statistical analysis was carried out on the drug name, pharmaceutical companies, dosage form, number of flavors, CBDs, ICD-11 classification of diseases treated, etc.

Results

Currently, 58,409 approvals for CCPPs have been issued in China, involving 9,986 varieties of CCPPs, 2,896 pharmaceutical companies and 39 dosage forms. The number of flavors of prescriptions of CCPPs varies from 1 to 90, among which Glycyrrhiza glabra L. [Fabaceae; Glycyrrhizae radix et rhizoma] and Angelica sinensis (Oliv.) Diels [Apiaceae; Angelicae sinensis radix] are the most widely used. The study found that the CCPPs with the most diverse variety is CCPPs for the treatment of respiratory diseases, some CCPPs can treat multiple system diseases. According to the survey, the sales of CCPPs for respiratory diseases in the chain pharmacies account for more than 1/3 of the total sales of the chain pharmacies, while the number of published randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on CCPPs for circulatory diseases was the largest.

Conclusion

The approval process of CCPPs should be further standardized, and the transformation of TCM prescriptions into CCPPs should be promoted. In the approval process of CCPPs, it is suggested to strengthen the supervision of drug names to clarify the differences between the CCPPs of same name but different prescriptions. Improve the effectiveness and safety of CCPPs by improving the quality of CBDs. It is suggested to optimize the design of new drug research program of CCPPs to avoid waste of research resources.

Efficacy and safety of Link Natural Sudarshana, an Ayurvedic herbal preparation in COVID-19 patients: A phase II multicenter double-blind randomized placebo-controlled trial

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

In vitro and in vivo studies have shown anti-viral and immunomodulatory actions in components of many traditional medicines. Various constituents of traditional medicines have been found to be effective against coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in several clinical trials and in-silico studies. Sudarshana cúrna, a polyherbal Ayurvedic medicine, has been used over thousands of years for a variety of infectious fevers.

AIMS OF THE STUDY

This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Link Natural Sudarshana (LNS) tablets, in patients with COVID 19 disease. LNS is a polyherbal preparation comprising 49 medicinal plants included in the Sudarshana cúrna.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A randomized parallel-group double-blind placebo-controlled multi-center phase II clinical trial was conducted in patients with mild to moderate COVID-19 disease. They were randomly allocated to intervention and control groups. The intervention group received LNS tablets whereas the control group received placebo tablets for 10 days or until the patient was discharged from the hospital. All patients received standard symptomatic treatment. The primary outcome, a reduction in mean log viral load was assessed at day 5 of treatment. The secondary outcomes, clinical progression and safety, were assessed by, monitoring changes in symptoms daily on a Likert scale ranging from 1 to 4 and laboratory tests respectively.

RESULTS

A total of 171 patients (treatment group 83, control group 88) completed the trial. There were no significant differences between the baseline status of the two groups except that body mass index was significantly higher in the placebo group. The mean log viral load reduction at day 5 was higher in the treatment group (2.20 ± 1.67) compared to the placebo group (1.93 ± 1.80), with a mean difference of -0.278. This difference was not statistically significant at the 5% significant level. Reduction of mean cumulative symptom score, which included 16 symptoms graded according to severity, was higher in the treatment group compared to the placebo group. This difference was not statistically significant. None of the study participants developed hypoxia. Among the 7 lymphopenia patients in the placebo group, 3 continued to have lymphopenia at day 10, whereas 9 lymphopenia patients in the treatment group, reverted to normal counts. C reactive proteins (CRP) showed a greater reduction in the treatment group. None reported adverse effects. No significant changes occurred in hematological and biochemical parameters that assessed safety.

CONCLUSIONS

LNS is safe to use in COVID-19 patients and accelerated the decline in viral load, relieved symptoms, reduced CRP levels and reversed lymphopenia earlier, when compared to the placebo.

Triptolide Administration Alters Immune Responses to Mitigate Insulin Resistance in Obese States

Individuals who are overweight or obese are at increased risk of developing prediabetes and type 2 diabetes, yet the direct molecular mechanisms that connect diabetes to obesity are not clear. Chronic, sustained inflammation is considered a strong risk factor in these interactions, directed in part by the short-lived gene expression programs encoding for cytokines and pro-inflammatory mediators. In this study, we show that triptolide administration in the C57BL/6 diet-induced obese mice at up to 10 μg/kg/day for 10 weeks attenuated the development of insulin resistance and diabetes, but not obesity, in these animals. Significant reductions in adipose tissue inflammation and improved insulin sensitivity were observed in the absence of changes in food intake, body weight, body composition, or energy expenditure. Analysis of the core cluster of biomarkers that drives pro-inflammatory responses in the metabolic tissues suggested TNF-α as a critical point that affected the co-development of inflammation and insulin resistance, but also pointed to the putatively protective roles of increased COX-2 and IL-17A signaling in the mediation of these pathophysiological states. Our results show that reduction of diet-induced inflammation confers partial protection against insulin resistance, but not obesity, and suggest the possibility of achieving overweight phenotypes that are accompanied by minimal insulin resistance if inflammation is controlled.

Andrographolide attenuates sepsis-induced acute kidney injury by inhibiting ferroptosis through the Nrf2/FSP1 pathway

Sepsis is a systemic inflammatory response syndrome caused by infection, which causes renal dysfunction known as sepsis-associated acute kidney injury (S-AKI). Ferroptosis is a form of lipid peroxidation dependent on iron and reactive oxygen species that differs from other forms of programmed cell death at the morphological and biochemical levels. Andrographolide (AG), a natural diterpenoid lactone compound extracted from Andrographis paniculata, has been shown to have therapeutic effects in kidney disease. In this study, we investigated the novel mechanism by which AG attenuates septic acute kidney injury by inhibiting ferroptosis in renal tubular epithelial cells (HK-2) through the Nrf2/FSP1 pathway. Cecum ligation and puncture (CLP)-induced septic rats and lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced HK-2 cells were used for in vivo and in vitro experiments. Firstly, in septic rats and HK-2 cells, AG effectively decreased the levels of kidney injury indicators, including blood creatinine, urea nitrogen, and markers of kidney injury such as neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipid transport protein and kidney injury molecule-1 (KIM-1). In addition, AG prevented ferroptotosis, by avoiding the accumulation of iron and lipid peroxidation, and an increase in SLC7A11 and GPX4 in AG-treated HK-2 cells. Furthermore, AG attenuated mitochondrial damage, including mitochondrial swelling, outer membrane rupture, and a reduction in mitochondrial cristae in LPS-treated HK-2 cells. Ferrostatin-1 (Fer-1), a ferroptosis inhibitor, significantly inhibited LPS-induced ferroptosis in HK-2 cells. Importantly, our results confirm that Nrf2/FSP1 is an important pathway for ferroptosis resistance. Nrf2 siRNA hindered the effect of AG in attenuating acute kidney injury and inhibiting ferroptosis. These findings demonstrate that Nrf2/FSP1-mediated HK-2 ferroptosis is associated with AG, alleviates septic acute kidney injury, and indicates a novel avenue for therapeutic interventions in the treatment of acute kidney injury in sepsis.

Aspongopus chinensis ach-miR-276a-3p induces breast cancer cell cycle arrest by targeting APPL2 to regulate the CDK2-Rb-E2F1 signaling pathway

Breast cancer, the most common cancer, presents a significant challenge to the health and longevity of women. Aspongopus chinensis Dallas is an insect with known anti-breast cancer properties. However, the anti-breast cancer effects and underlying mechanisms have not been elucidated. Exogenous microRNAs (miRNAs), which are derived from plants and animals, have been revealed to have notable capacities for controlling the proliferation of cancerous cells. To elucidate the inhibitory effects of miRNAs derived from A. chinensis and the regulatory mechanism involved in the growth of breast cancer cells, miRNA sequencing was initially employed to screen for miRNAs both in A. chinensis hemolymph and decoction and in mouse serum and tumor tissue after decoction gavage. Subsequently, the experiments were performed to assess the suppressive effect of ach-miR-276a-3p, the miRNA screened out from a previous study, on the proliferation of MDA-MB-231 and MDA-MB-468 breast cancer cell lines in vitro and in vivo. Finally, the regulatory mechanism of ach-miR-276a-3p in MDA-MB-231 and MDA-MB-468 breast cancer cells was elucidated. The results demonstrated that ach-miR-276a-3p notably inhibited breast cancer cell proliferation, migration, colony formation, and invasion and induced cell cycle arrest at the G0/G1 phase. Moreover, the ach-miR-276a-3p mimics significantly reduced the tumor volume and weight in xenograft tumor mice. Furthermore, ach-miR-276a-3p could induce cell cycle arrest by targeting APPL2 and regulating the CDK2-Rb-E2F1 signaling pathway. In summary, ach-miR-276a-3p, derived from A. chinensis, has anti-breast cancer activity by targeting APPL2 and regulating the CDK2-Rb-E2F1 signaling pathway and can serve as a promising candidate anticancer agent.

Immunomodulatory Effect of Phytoactive Compounds on Human Health: A Narrative Review Integrated with Bioinformatics Approach

BACKGROUND

Immunomodulation is the modification of immune responses to control disease progression. While the synthetic immunomodulators have proven efficacy, they are coupled with toxicity and other adverse effects, and hence, the efforts were to identify natural phytochemicals with immunomodulatory potential.

OBJECTIVE

To understand the immunomodulatory properties of various phytochemicals and investigate them in Echinacea species extracts using an in silico approach.

METHODOLOGY

Several scientific database repositories were searched using different keywords: "Phytochemicals," "Alkaloids," "Polyphenols," "Flavonoids," "Lectins," "Glycosides," "Tannins," "Terpenoids," "Sterols," "Immunomodulators," and "Human Immune System" without any language restriction. Additionally, the study specifically investigated the immunomodulatory properties of Echinacea species extracts using gene expression analysis of GSE12259 from NCBI-GEO through the Bioconductor package GEOquery and limma.

RESULTS

A total of 182 studies were comprehensively analyzed to understand immunomodulatory phytochemicals. The in silico analysis highlighted key biological processes (positive regulation of cytokine production, response to tumor necrosis factor) and molecular functions (cytokine receptor binding, receptor-ligand activity, and cytokine activity) among Echinacea species extracts contributing to immune responses. Further, it also indicated the association of various metabolic pathways, i.e., pathways in cancer, cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction, NF-kappa B, PI3K-Akt, TNF, MAPK, and NOD-like receptor signaling pathways, with immune responses. The study revealed various hub targets, including CCL20, CCL4, GCH1, SLC7A11, SOD2, EPB41L3, TNFAIP6, GCLM, EGR1, and FOS.

CONCLUSION

The present study presents a cumulative picture of phytochemicals with therapeutic benefits. Additionally, the study also reported a few novel genes and pathways in Echinacea extracts by re-analyzing GSE 12259 indicating its anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, and immunomodulatory properties.

The role and mechanism of TCM in the prevention and treatment of infectious diseases

The constant presence of infectious diseases poses an everlasting threat to the entire world. In recent years, there has been an increased attention toward the application of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) in the treatment of emerging infectious diseases, as it has played a significant role. The aim of this article is to provide a concise overview of the roles and mechanisms of TCM in treating infectious diseases. TCM possesses the ability to modulate relevant factors, impede signaling pathways, and inhibit microbial growth, thereby exhibiting potent antiviral, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory effects that demonstrate remarkable efficacy against viral and bacterial infections. This article concludes that the comprehensive regulatory features of Chinese herbal medicines, with their various components, targets, and pathways, result in synergistic effects. The significance of Chinese herbal medicines in the context of infectious diseases should not be underestimated; however, it is crucial to also acknowledge their underutilization. This paper presents constructive suggestions regarding the challenges and opportunities faced by Chinese medicines. Particularly, it emphasizes the effectiveness and characteristics of Chinese medicines in the treatment of infectious diseases, specifying how these medicines' active substances can be utilized to target infectious diseases. This perspective is advantageous in facilitating researchers' pharmacological studies on Chinese medicines, focusing on the specific points of action. The mechanism of action of Chinese herbal medicines in the treatment of infectious diseases is comprehensively elucidated in this paper, providing compelling evidence for the superior treatment of infectious diseases through Chinese medicine. This information is favorable for advancing the development of TCM and its potential applications in the field of infectious diseases.

Toxicological safety assessment of AP-Bio®, a standardized extract of Andrographis paniculata in Sprague Dawley rats

Andrographis paniculata, commonly known as green chiretta, is a traditionally used plant in India, China, and Southeast Asian countries for its varied health benefits including immune health. The objective of the present study was to assess the safety of AP-Bio®, a standardized A. paniculata extract in Sprague Dawley rats by following the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) test guidelines of acute and 90-day repeated dose sub-chronic toxicity studies. AP-Bio® did not show any treatment-related clinical signs of toxicity or mortality during the 14-day observation period in animals tested in the single-dose acute oral toxicity study up to a dose of 5000 mg/kg body weight. In the 90-day repeated dose sub-chronic oral toxicity study, no treatment-related adverse clinical signs were observed in any of the treated groups (300, 600, and 900 mg/kg). All treated animals showed usual weight gain and comparable feed intake. The ophthalmoscope examination did not reveal any abnormalities. Also, no toxicologically significant changes were observed in urinalysis, hematology, and blood chemistry parameters. Absolute organ weights and relative organ weights of vital organs did not differ significantly compared to control. Gross and histopathological findings did not show any remarkable and treatment-related changes. Results of the safety evaluation showed the median lethal dose (LD50 ) of AP-Bio® was found to be more than 5000 mg/kg rat body weight and the no observed adverse effect level (NOAEL) of AP-Bio® was found to be 900 mg/kg rat body weight.

Mechanistic Evidence of Andrographis paniculata (Burm. f.) Wall. ex Nees, Pelargonium sidoides DC., Echinacea Species and a Combination of Hedera helix L., Primula veris L./Primula elatior L. and Thymus vulgaris L./Thymus zygis L. in the Treatment of Acute, Uncomplicated Respiratory Tract Infections: A Systematic Literature Review and Expert Interviews

Reducing inappropriate antibiotic (AB) use by using effective non-antibiotic treatments is one strategy to prevent and reduce antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Andrographis paniculata (Burm. f.) Wall. ex Nees, Pelargonium sidoides DC., Echinacea species and a combination of ivy (Hedera helix L.), primrose (Primula veris L./Primula elatior L.) and thyme (Thymus vulgaris L./Thymus zygis L.) have promising clinical effects in uncomplicated, acute upper respiratory tract infections (URTI) treatment. However, mechanistic evidence of these herbal treatments is lacking. The objective of this Pstudy is to provide an overview of mechanistic evidence for these effects. Thirty-eight databases were searched. Included studies were mechanistic studies (in vitro, animal, and human studies and reviews) on these herbs; published before June 2021. Non-mechanistic studies or studies on combinations of herbs other than ivy/primrose/thyme were excluded. Furthermore, three experts in traditional, complementary and integrative healthcare (TCIH) research and pharmacognosy were interviewed to collect additional expert knowledge. The results show that A. paniculata acts through immunomodulation and antiviral activity, possibly supplemented by antibacterial and antipyretic effects. P. sidoides acts through antiviral, indirect antibacterial, immunomodulatory and expectorant effects. Echinacea species likely act through immunomodulation. The combination of ivy/primrose/thyme combines secretolytic and spasmolytic effects from ivy with antibacterial effects from thyme. Studies on primrose were lacking. This mechanistic evidence supports the difference-making evidence from clinical studies, contributes to evidence-based recommendations for their use in URTI treatment, and guides future mechanistic studies on URTI treatments.

Regulatory mechanisms of natural compounds from traditional Chinese herbal medicines on the microglial response in ischemic stroke

BACKGROUND

Development of clinically effective neuroprotective agents for stroke therapy is still a challenging task. Microglia play a critical role in brain injury and recovery after ischemic stroke. Traditional Chinese herbal medicines (TCHMs) are based on a unique therapeutic principle, have various formulas, and have long been widely used to treat stroke. Therefore, the active compounds in TCHMs and their underlying mechanisms of action are attracting increasing attention in the field of stroke drug development.

PURPOSE

To summarize the regulatory mechanisms of TCHM-derived natural compounds on the microglial response in animal models of ischemic stroke.

METHODS

We searched studies published until 10 April 2023 in the Web of Science, PubMed, and ScienceDirect using the following keywords: natural compounds, natural products or phytochemicals, traditional Chinese Medicine or Chinese herbal medicine, microglia, and ischemic stroke. This review was prepared according to PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Item for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis) guidelines.

RESULTS

Natural compounds derived from TCHMs can attenuate the M1 phenotype of microglia, which is involved in the detrimental inflammatory response, via inhibition of NF-κB, MAPKs, JAK/STAT, Notch, TLR4, P2X7R, CX3CR1, IL-17RA, the NLRP3 inflammasome, and pro-oxidant enzymes. Additionally, the neuroprotective response of microglia with the M2 phenotype can be enhanced by activating Nrf2/HO-1, PI3K/AKT, AMPK, PPARγ, SIRT1, CB2R, TREM2, nAChR, and IL-33/ST2. Several clinical trials showed that TCHM-derived natural compounds that regulate microglial responses have significant and safe therapeutic effects, but further well-designed clinical studies are needed.

CONCLUSIONS

Further research regarding the direct targets and potential pleiotropic or synergistic effects of natural compounds would provide a more reasonable approach for regulation of the microglial response with the possibility of successful stroke drug development.

An improved strategy for identification and annotation of easily in-sourced dissociation diterpene lactones from plant natural products: Taking Andrographis paniculata (Burm. f.) as an example

RATIONALE

Diterpene lactones (DL) in Andrographis paniculata (AP) are known as "natural antibiotics" for their excellent antibacterial activity. During mass spectrometry (MS) analysis, the hydroxyl groups in the AP DL skeleton are prone to neutral loss of H₂ O, producing high in-source fragment peaks and affecting the characterization of these components.

METHODS

Mass tags were applied during the MS data acquisition step, and special adduct ion form was used to guide the data processing and characterization steps. Besides, the total number of characterized AP DLs significantly increased when combining the number of neutrally lost H₂ O from AP DLs, incorporating information on the diagnostic ions, and adopting molecular networks generated with the Global Natural Products Social Molecular Networking database.

RESULTS

Ninety-nine DLs, comprising 6 monohydroxyl groups, 20 dihydroxyl groups, 27 trihydroxy groups, and 46 DLs with more than 3 hydroxyl groups, were characterized from AP. In addition, based on the characteristic fragments in the product ions (C₃ H₄ , Δm/z = 40.03 Da), it could be assumed that 90 DLs had the C19-OH structure among the identified DLs. The current study provides a new approach for collecting, processing, and characterizing MS analysis of natural DLs prone to in-source fragmentation.

CONCLUSIONS

MS characterization of AP DLs was significantly improved, and many potential new compounds were identified in AP. This characterization provides new methods for the purification and identification of AP DLs.

Anti-Cancer Agent: The Labdane Diterpenoid-Andrographolide

In spite of the progress in treatment strategies, cancer remains a major cause of death worldwide. Therefore, the main challenge should be the early diagnosis of cancer and the design of an optimal therapeutic strategy to increase the patient's life expectancy as well as the continuation of the search for increasingly active and selective molecules for the treatment of different forms of cancer. In the recent decades, research in the field of natural compounds has increasingly shifted towards advanced and molecular level understandings, thus leading to the development of potent anti-cancer agents. Among them is the diterpene lactone andrographolide, isolated from Andrographis paniculata (Burm.f.) Wall. ex Nees that showed shows a plethora of biological activities, including not only anti-cancer activity, but also anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, anti-bacterial, neuroprotective, hepatoprotective, hypoglycemic, and immunomodulatory properties. Andrographolide has been shown to act as an anti-tumor drug by affecting specific molecular targets that play a part in the development and progression of several cancer types including breast, lung, colon, renal, and cervical cancer, as well as leukemia and hepatocarcinoma. This review comprehensively and systematically summarized the current research on the potential anti-cancer properties of andrographolide highlighting its mechanisms of action, pharmacokinetics, and potential side effects and discussing the future perspectives, challenges, and limitations of use.

Phytochemical Composition, Bioactive Compounds, and Antioxidant Properties of Different Parts of Andrographis macrobotrys Nees

Andrographis macrobotrys Nees is an ethnomedicinal plant belonging to the family Acanthaceae, distributed in the moist deciduous and semi-evergreen forests of the southern Western Ghats of India. The objective of this research was to determine the phytochemical composition and bioactive chemical components using gas chromatography and mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and to check the antioxidant potential of the plant part extracts. A. macrobotrys roots, stems, and leaves were obtained from the species' natural habitat in the Western Ghats, India. The bioactive compounds were extracted using a Soxhlet extractor at 55-60 °C for 8 h in methanol. Identification analysis of A. macrobotrys bioactive compound was performed using GC-MS. Quantitative estimation of phytochemicals was carried out, and the antioxidant capacity of the plant extracts was determined by 2,2'-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging (DPPH) and ferric reducing assays (FRAP). A. macrobotrys has a higher concentration of phenolics in its stem extract than in its root or leaf extracts (124.28 mg and 73.01 mg, respectively), according to spectrophotometric measurements. GC-MS analysis revealed the presence of phytochemicals such as azulene, 2,4-di-tert-butylphenol, benzoic acid, 4-ethoxy-ethyl ester, eicosane, 3-heptadecanol, isopropyl myristate, hexadecanoic acid methyl ester, hexadecanoic acid, 1-butyl-cyclohexanol, 9,12-octadecadienoic acid, alpha-monostearin, and 5-hydroxy-7,8-dimethoxyflavone belonging to various classes of flavonoids, terpenoids, phenolics, fatty acids, and aromatic compounds. Significant bioactive phytochemicals include 2,4-di-tert-butylphenol, 2-methoxy-4-vinylphenol, 5-hydroxy-7,8-dimethoxyflavone, azulene, salvigenin, squalene, and tetrapentacontane. In addition, the antioxidant capability of each of the three extracts was assessed. The stem extract demonstrated impressive DPPH scavenging and ferric reduction activities, with EC₅₀ values of 79 mg/mL and 0.537 ± 0.02 OD at 0.2 mg/mL, respectively. The results demonstrated the importance of A. macrobotrys as a source of medicine and antioxidants.

Effect of andrographolide and deep eutectic solvent extracts of Andrographis paniculata on human coronavirus organ culture 43 (HCoV-OC43)

BACKGROUND

Andrographis paniculata (Burm. f.) Nees has demonstrated potential for treating infections caused by coronaviruses. However, no antiviral activity of andrographolide or A. paniculata extracts against human coronavirus organ culture 43 (HCoV-OC43) has been reported.

PURPOSE

This study aimed to evaluate the anti-HCoV-OC43 effect of andrographolide and A. paniculata as well as the correlation between andrographolide concentration and the anti-HCoV-OC43 activity of A. paniculata extracts.

METHODS

This study evaluated and compared the in vitro anti-HCoV-OC43 activities of various A. paniculata extracts and andrographolide. To obtain A. paniculata extracts with different concentrations of andrographolide and its components, methanol and deep eutectic solvents (DES) were used to extract the aerial parts of A. paniculata. Andrographolide content was determined using UV-HPLC, and antiviral activity was assessed in HCT-8 colon cells.

RESULTS

The methanol and five acidic DES (containing malic acid or citric acid) extracts of A. paniculata exerted anti-HCoV-OC43 activity. Antiviral activity had a moderately strong positive linear relationship (r = 0.7938) with andrographolide content. Although the methanol extract contained the highest andrographolide content (2.34 mg/ml), its anti-HCoV-OC43 activity was lower than that of the DES extracts containing lower andrographolide concentrations (0.92-1.46 mg/ml).

CONCLUSION

Methanol and the five acidic DES extracts of A. paniculata exhibited anti-HCoV-OC43 activity. However, the in vitro antiviral activity of A. paniculata extracts did not have a very strong positive linear relationship (r < 0.8) with andrographolide concentration in the extract. As a result, when comparing A. paniculata extracts, the anti-HCoV-OC43 test could provide a different result from the andrographolide concentration determination.

Traditional medicine herbs as natural product matrices in cancer chemoprevention: A trans pharmacological perspective (scoping review)

Emerging evidence on molecular biology related to tumors, inflammation, and immunity, highlights their architectural commonality shifting cancer treatment paradigms toward more economical prevention than treatment. Statistical surveys reveal exponentially growing herbal drug supplementation in cancer worldwide as vast pre-clinical and clinical data unravel their multi-mechanistic pharmacology. The integrative oncological approach calls for more "holistic" principles to be amalgamated into cancer care. New cancer drug development from herbs need not be limited by the archetypal 'RCT-Standardization' bottlenecks. Based on comprehensive literature scoping as per Prisma-ScR guidelines, we herein concurrently reviewed evidence-based research reports of selected Indian Traditional Medicine (ITM) herbs of anticancer repute in parallel with their holistic therapeutics; a rationalistic exploration of ITM's scientific genre. Their synergy effect on cancer revisited using a trans-pharmacological approach validates ITM's seemingly simplistic health/disease equation model, showing a fresh new avenue for re-purposing whole herbal drug complexes in cancer management. Herbal drugs as per ITM are natural matrices whose dynamics of interaction in the etiopathology of cancer are conceptually and mechanistically integrative. Lateral perspective to the same as laid out in this review holds the key to their effectual development as more tangible cancer chemopreventives/new drug targets/leads if not as new pharmacological tools.

Evaluations of Andrographolide-Rich Fractions of Andrographis paniculata with Enhanced Potential Antioxidant, Anticancer, Antihypertensive, and Anti-Inflammatory Activities

Andrographis paniculata is widely used as a traditional medicine in Asian countries. It has been classified as a safe and non-toxic medicine by traditional Chinese medicine. The investigation of the biological activities of A. paniculata is still focused on the crude extract and isolation of its main active compound, andrographolide, and its derivatives. However, the use of andrographolide alone has been shown to exacerbate unwanted effects. This highlights the importance of developing a fraction of A. paniculata with enhanced efficacy as an herbal-based medicine. In this study, the extraction and fractionation of A. paniculata, followed by quantitative analysis using high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with a DAD detector, were established to quantify the andrographolide and its derivative in each fraction. Biological activities, such as antioxidant, anticancer, antihypertensive, and anti-inflammatory activities, were evaluated to study their correlations with the quantification of active substances of A. paniculata extract and its fractions. The 50% methanolic fraction of A. paniculata exhibited the best cytotoxic activities against CACO-2 cells, as well as the best anti-inflammatory and antihypertensive activities compared to other extracts. The 50% methanolic fraction also displayed the highest quantification of its main active compound, andrographolide, and its derivatives, 14-deoxy-11,12-didehydroandrographolide, neoandrographolide, and andrograpanin, among others.

3, 14, 19-Triacetyl Andrographolide alleviates the cognitive dysfunction of 3 × Tg-AD mice by inducing initiation and promoting degradation process of autophagy

The present study aims to investigate the cognition-enhancing effect of 3, 14, 19-Triacetyl andrographolide (ADA) on learning and memory deficits in 3 × Tg-AD mice and to explore its underlying mechanism. Eight-month-old 3 × Tg-AD mice and C57BL/6J mice were randomly divided into three groups, namely wild-type group, 3 × Tg-AD group, and 3 × Tg-AD+ADA group (5 mg/kg, for 21 days, i.p.). We found that ADA significantly improved learning and cognition impairment, inhibited the loss of Nissl body, and reduced Aβ load in the brains of 3 × Tg-AD mice. In addition, ADA enhanced the levels of PSD95 and SYP, which were closely associated with synaptic plasticity. Accumulated autophagosomes, LC3II, and P62 in hippocampus and cortex of 3 × Tg-AD mice were decreased by ADA treatment. Furthermore, ADA administration further down-regulated the expressions of p-AKT and p-mTOR, reduced the level of CTSB, and increased the co-localization of LC3 and LAMP1 in the brains of 3 × Tg-AD mice, implying that ADA-induced autophagy initiation and also promoted the degradation process. In Aβ_25-35 -induced HT22 cells, ADA displayed similar effects on autophagy flux as observed in 3 × Tg-AD mice. Our finding verified that ADA could improve synaptic plasticity and cognitive function, which is mainly attributed to the key roles of ADA in autophagy induction and degradation.

Mechanism of andrographis paniculata on lung cancer by network pharmacology and molecular docking

BACKGROUND

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has been widely recognized and accepted worldwide to provide favorable therapeutic effects for cancer patients. As Andrographis paniculata has an anti-tumor effect, it might inhibit lung cancer.

OBJECTIVE

The drug targets and related pathways involved in the action of Andrographis paniculata against lung cancer were predicted using network pharmacology, and its mechanism was further explored at the molecular level.

METHODS

This work selected the effective components and targets of Andrographis paniculata against the Traditional Chinese Medicine System Pharmacology (TCMSP) database. Targets related to lung cancer were searched for in the GEO database (accession number GSE136043). The volcanic and thermal maps of differential expression genes were produced using the software R. Then, the target genes were analyzed by GO and KEGG analysis using the software R. This also utilized the AutoDock tool to study the molecular docking of the active component structures downloaded from the PubChem database and the key target structures downloaded from the PDB database, and the docking results were visualized using the software PyMol.

RESULTS

The results of molecular docking show that wogonin, Mono-O-methylwightin, Deoxycamptothecine, andrographidine F_qt, Quercetin tetramethyl (3',4',5,7) ether, 14-deoxyandrographolide, andrographolide-19-β-D-glucoside_qt and 14-deoxy-11-oxo-andrographolide were potential active components, while AKT1, MAPK14, RELA and NCOA1 were key targets.

CONCLUSION

This study showed the main candidate components, targets, and pathways involved in the action of Andrographis paniculata against lung cancer.

Effects of fermented Andrographis paniculata on growth performance, carcass traits, immune function, and intestinal health in Muscovy ducks

The study aimed to examine the effects of unfermented and fermented Andrographis paniculata on growth performance, carcass traits, immune function, and intestinal health in Muscovy ducks. A total of 450 (16-day-old) Muscovy ducks weighing 271.44 ± 8.25 g were randomly assigned to 5 dietary treatments (6 replicate pens of 15 ducks per treatment), consisting of one control treatment (basal diet without A. paniculata), one unfermented A. paniculata treatment (basal diet plus 30 g/kg unfermented A. paniculata) and 3 fermented A. paniculata treatments (basal diet plus 10, 30, and 50 g/kg). 30 g/kg unfermented A. paniculata increased the ADG, thymus index, peripheral blood lymphocyte conversion rate, villi height, intestinal thickness, villi surface area, intraepithelial lymphocytes rate, while decreased the FCR. 10 g/kg fermented A. paniculata markedly boosted ADG, bursa of fabricius index, thymus index, serum lysozyme, lymphocyte conversion rate, villi height, vilii width, intestinal thickness, villi surface area, while decreased the FCR. 30 g/kg fermented A. paniculata clearly improved ADG, bursa of fabricius index, thymus index, serum lysozyme, lymphocyte conversion rate, villi height, vilii width, intestinal thickness, villi surface area, intraepithelial lymphocytes, while decreased FCR. 50 g/kg fermented A. paniculata significantly increased villi height, vilii width, and villi surface area, while clearly reduced BW. Additionally, compared to 30 g/kg unfermented A. paniculata, 30 g/kg fermented A. paniculata obviously increased bursa of fabricius indices, lymphocyte conversion rate, vilii width, villi surface area. On top of that, supplementation with unfermented and fermented A. paniculata (30 g/kg each) decreased the relative abundance of harmful bacteria (Succinivibrio, Succinatimonas, Sphaerochaeta, and Mucispirillum) and increase the abundance of beneficial bacteria (Rikenellaceae, Methanocorpusculum, Fournierella, Ruminococcaceae) in the ceca of the ducks. However, fermented A. paniculata had considerable better effects than unfermented A. paniculate on all above measured indices. Overall, these results revealed that supplementation with unfermented and fermented A. paniculata across different treatments improved growth, immune status, intestinal morphology, and intestinal microbiota composition and structure in Muscovy ducks, making it a potential alternative to antibiotics in poultry production.

Curcumae rhizoma and its major constituents against hepatobiliary disease: Pharmacotherapeutic properties and potential clinical applications

BACKGROUND

Hepatobiliary disease currently serves as an urgent health issue in public due to health-modulating factors such as extension of life expectancy, increasingly sedentary lifestyles and over-nutrition. A definite treatment remains lacking owing to different stages of the disease itself and its intricate pathogenesis. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has been gradually popularized in clinic with the satisfactory efficacy and good safety. Curcumae Rhizoma (called E Zhu, EZ in Chinese) is a representative herb, which has been used to treat hepatobiliary disease for thousands of years.

PURPOSE

To systematically summarize the recent research advances on the pharmacological activities of EZ and its constituents, explain the underlying mechanisms of preventing and treating hepatobiliary diseases, and assess the shortcomings of existing work. Besides, ethnopharmacology, phytochemicals, and toxicology of EZ have been researched.

METHODS

The information about EZ was collected from various sources including classic books about Chinese herbal medicine, and scientific databases including Web of Science, PubMed, ScienceDirect, Springer, ACS, SCOPUS, CNKI, CSTJ, and WANFANG using keywords given below and terms like pharmacological and phytochemical details of this plant.

RESULTS

The chemical constituents isolated and identified from EZ, such as terpenoids including β-elemene, furanodiene, germacrone, etc. and curcuminoids including curcumin, demethoxycurcumin, bisdemethoxycurcumin, etc. prove to have hepatoprotective effect, anti-liver fibrotic effect, anti-fatty liver effect, anti-liver neoplastic effect, and cholagogic effect through TGF-β1/Smad, JNK1/2-ROS, NF-κB and other anti-inflammatory and antioxidant signaling pathways. Also, EZ is often combined with other Chinese herbs in the treatment of hepatobiliary diseases with good clinical efficacy and no obvious adverse reactions.

CONCLUSION

It provides a preclinical basis for the efficacy of EZ as an effective therapeutic agent for the prevention and treatment of hepatobiliary diseases. Even so, the further studies still needed to alleviate hepatotoxicity and expand clinical application.

Andrographolide Suppresses Expressions of Coagulation and Fibrinolytic Inhibition-Related Factors in LPS-Induced Alveolar Epithelial Cell Type II via NF-κB Signal Pathway In Vitro

Background

Andrographolide (Andro) has been confirmed to ameliorate alveolar hypercoagulation and fibrinolysis inhibition via NF-κB pathway in acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), but the specific target of Andro is unknown.

Purpose

Our aim is to explore the specific target of Andro through which the drug exerted its effects on alveolar hypercoagulation and fibrinolytic inhibition in LPS-induced ARDS.

Methods

AECII was treated with different doses of Andro for 1 h, and then stimulated with LPS for 24 h. Expressions of tissue factor (TF), plasminogen activator inhibitor (PAI)-1 and tissue factor pathway inhibitor (TFPI) were detected. Concentrations of thrombin-antithrombin complex (TAT), pro-collagen type III peptide (PIIIP), antithrombin III (ATIII) and activated protein C (APC) in cell supernatant were measured by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). NF-κB signaling pathways activation was simultaneously determined. AECII with p65 down-/over-expression were used as control.

Results

Andro effectively inhibited TF and PAI-1 and promoted TFPI expressions on AECII induced by LPS stimulation. Andro also significantly suppressed the productions of TAT and PIIIP but promoted ATIII and APC secretions from the LPS-treated cell. Furthermore, Andro application obviously inhibited NF-κB signaling pathway activation provoked by LPS, as shown by decreased level of phosphorylation (p‑)-IKKβ/IKKβ, p-p65/p65 and p65 DNA binding activity. The effects of Andro on those factors were obviously strengthened by down- but were weakened by up-regulation of p65 gene in AECII cell.

Conclusions

Our data demonstrates that targeting AECII is the mechanism by which Andro ameliorates alveolar hypercoagulaiton and fibrinolytic inhibition via NF-κB pathway in ARDS. Andro is worth to be clinically further studied in ARDS treatment.

The Invasive Species Reynoutria japonica Houtt. as a Promising Natural Agent for Cardiovascular and Digestive System Illness

Polygoni Cuspidati Rhizoma et Radix, the dry roots and stems of Reynoutria japonica Houtt (called Huzhang, HZ in Chinese), is a traditional and popular chinese medicinal herb for thousands of years. As a widely used ethnomedicine in Asia including China, Japan, and Korea, HZ can invigorate the blood, cool heat, and resolve toxicity, which is commonly used in the treatment of favus, jaundice, scald, and constipation. However, HZ is now considered an invasive plant in the United States and many European countries. Therefore, in order to take advantage of HZ and solve the problem of biological invasion, scholars around the world have carried out abundant research studies on HZ. Until now, about 110 compounds have been isolated and identified from HZ, in which anthraquinones, stilbenes, and flavonoids would be the main bioactive ingredients for its pharmacological properties, such as microcirculation improvement, myocardial protective effects, endocrine regulation, anti-atherosclerotic activity, anti-oxidant activity, anti-tumor activity, anti-viral activity, and treatment of skin inflammation, burns, and scalds. HZ has a variety of active ingredients and broad pharmacological activities. It is widely used in health products, cosmetics, and even animal husbandry feed and has no obvious toxicity. Efforts should be made to develop more products such as effective drugs, health care products, cosmetics, and agricultural and animal husbandry products to benefit mankind.

The association study of chemical compositions and their pharmacological effects of Cyperi Rhizoma (Xiangfu), a potential traditional Chinese medicine for treating depression

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Cyperi Rhizoma (CR) derives from the rhizome or tuber of Cyperus rotundus L. of Cyperaceae. It is an herbal medicine which has been widely used in different healthcare systems like in China, India, Iran, and Japan. In Chinese medicine, CR could promote the flow of Qi in the Liver and Sanjiao channels, regulate menstruation and alleviate pain. Clinically, CR is used for depression, flatulence, hypochondriac pain, and dysmenorrhea. Thus, it has a long history and significant curative effect for the treatment of various Qi stagnation symptoms.

AIM OF THIS REVIEW

This review focuses on explaining the major antidepressant mechanisms of CR, and assessing the shortcomings of existing work. Besides, clinical applications, pharmacological effects and their corresponding chemical compositions and quality control of CR have been researched.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The search terms "Cyperus rotundus L." was used to obtain the literatures from electronic databases such as Web of Science, ScienceDirect, PubMed, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI). The information provided in this review to illustrate material basis of CR were only limited to papers which reported on the chemical compositions and pharmacological effects simultaneously.

RESULT

The study showed that CR has significant application in Qi stagnation, like depressed liver, stomach, and bowel disorders, etc. in different countries or districts. Aqueous extract, EtOH extract, essential oil, total oligomeric flavonoids and five other extracts were effective constituents displaying pharmacological activities such as antibacterial, antioxidant, neuroprotective, antihemolytic, and anti-inflammatory effect. 41 kinds of specific components like α-cyperone, nootkatone exhibited corresponding pharmacological activities mentioned above. Different concentrations of ethanol extract, essential oil, decoction of CR and monomer composition like α-cyperone, rotunduside G had anti-depressant effects.

CONCLUSIONS

In the present study, we have provided scientific information and research developments on traditional uses, phytochemical compositions and corresponding pharmacological activities, and quality control status on CR. The antidepression effect and its corresponding chemical compositions were generalized separately. The pharmacological activities studies should be more focused on the reflection of traditional clinical values. CR could be a significant potential herbal medicine to develop antidepressant drugs with lower side effects.

Antimicrobial Diterpenes: Recent Development From Natural Sources

Antimicrobial resistance has been posing an alarming threat to the treatment of infectious diseases over the years. Ineffectiveness of the currently available synthetic and semisynthetic antibiotics has led the researchers to discover new molecules with potent antimicrobial activities. To overcome the emerging antimicrobial resistance, new antimicrobial compounds from natural sources might be appropriate. Secondary metabolites from natural sources could be prospective candidates in the development of new antimicrobial agents with high efficacy and less side effects. Among the natural secondary metabolites, diterpenoids are of crucial importance because of their broad spectrum of antimicrobial activity, which has put it in the center of research interest in recent years. The present work is aimed at reviewing recent literature regarding different classes of natural diterpenes and diterpenoids with significant antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, and antiprotozoal activities along with their reported structure-activity relationships. This review has been carried out with a focus on relevant literature published in the last 5 years following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. A total of 229 diterpenoids from various sources like plants, marine species, and fungi are summarized in this systematic review, including their chemical structures, classification, and significant antimicrobial activities together with their reported mechanism of action and structure-activity relationships. The outcomes herein would provide researchers with new insights to find new credible leads and to work on their synthetic and semisynthetic derivatives to develop new antimicrobial agents.

Plant-Based Support of Respiratory Health during Viral Outbreaks

Respiratory viruses are linked to major epidemic events that have plagued humans through recorded history and possibly much earlier, ranging from common colds, influenza, and coronavirus infections to measles. However, difficulty in developing effective pharmaceutical solutions to treat infected individuals has hindered efforts to manage and minimize respiratory viral outbreaks and the associated mortality. Here we highlight a series of botanical interventions with different and often overlapping putative mechanisms of action to support the respiratory system, for which the bioactive pharmacophore was suggested and the initial structure-activity relationships have been explored (Bupleurum spp., Glycyrrhiza spp., Andrographis spp.), have been proposed with uncertainty (Echinacea spp., Zingiber spp., Verbascum spp., Marrubium spp.), or remained to be elucidated (Sambucus spp., Urtica spp.). Investigating these metabolites and their botanical sources holds potential to uncover new mediators of the respiratory health outcomes as well as molecular targets for future break-through therapeutic interventions targeting respiratory viral outbreaks.

Effects of novel microecologics combined with traditional Chinese medicine and probiotics on growth performance and health of broilers

In this study, we prepared a kind of novel microecologics, namely Chinese medicine-probiotic compound microecological preparation (CPCMP), which is composed of 5 traditional Chinese medicine herbs (Galla Chinensis, Andrographis paniculata, Arctii Fructus, Glycyrrhizae Radix, and Schizonepeta tenuifolia) fermented by Aspergillus niger and a kind of compound probiotics (Lactobacillus plantarum A37 and L. plantarum MIII). The effects of the CPCMP in broilers on growth performance, serum parameters, immune function, and intestinal health were investigated. A total of 450 one-day-old male Arbor Acres broilers were randomly divided into 6 treatment groups with 5 replicates, 15 birds per replicate. Treatments consisted of: blank control, CPCMP, positive control, commercial CPCMP, traditional Chinese medicine, and probiotics groups, which were birds fed with basal diet supplemented with no extra additives, 0.2% CPCMP, 0.0035% chlortetracycline, 0.2% commercially available CPCMP, 0.2% fermented traditional Chinese medicines, and 0.2% compound probiotics, respectively. CPCMP obviously increased the average body weight and average daily gain (P < 0.05, compared with any other group) and decreased the feed:gain ratio of broilers (P < 0.05, compared with the blank control, commercial CPCMP, traditional Chinese medicine, or probiotics group). Moreover, it significantly increased glutathione peroxidase and secretory immunoglobulin A levels and spleen/bursa indices (P < 0.05 for all, compared with the blank control, commercial CPCMP, traditional Chinese medicine, or probiotics group). Villus heights in duodenum, jejunum, and ileum were also elevated by CPCMP treatment (P < 0.05, compared with any other group). Furthermore, CPCMP substantially increased jejunal mRNA levels of occludin and zonula occludens-1 (P < 0.05, compared with the blank control, positive control, or probiotics group) and facilitated the growth and colonization of beneficial cecal bacteria, such as Olsenella, Barnesiella, and Lactobacillus. Overall results show that the CPCMP prepared in our work contributes to improving growth performance, serum parameters, immune function, and intestinal health of broilers and exerts synergistic effects of traditional Chinese medicines and probiotics to some extent. Our findings suggest that CPCMP is a promising antibiotic substitute in the livestock and poultry industry in the future.

Discovery of Novel Andrographolide Derivatives as Antiviral Inhibitors against Human Enterovirus A71

Hand-foot-and-mouth disease (HFMD) caused by human enterovirus A71 (EV-A71) infection has been associated with severe neurological complications. With the lack of an internationally approved antiviral, coupled with a surge in outbreaks globally, EV-A71 has emerged as a neurotropic virus of high clinical importance. Andrographolide has many pharmacological effects including antiviral activity and its derivative, andrographolide sulfonate, has been used in China clinically to treat EV-A71 infections. This study sought to identify novel andrographolide derivatives as EV-A71 inhibitors and elucidate their antiviral mode of action. Using an immunofluorescence-based phenotypic screen, we identified novel EV-A71 inhibitors from a 344-compound library of andrographolide derivatives and validated them with viral plaque assays. Among these hits, ZAF-47, a quinolinoxy-andrographolide, was selected for downstream mechanistic studies. It was found that ZAF-47 acts on EV-A71 post-entry stages and inhibits EV-A71 protein expression. Subsequent luciferase studies confirm that ZAF-47 targets EV-A71 genome RNA replication specifically. Unsuccessful attempts in generating resistant mutants led us to believe a host factor is likely to be involved which coincide with the finding that ZAF-47 exhibits broad-spectrum antiviral activity against other enteroviruses (CV-A16, CV-A6, Echo7, CV-B5, CV-A24 and EV-D68). Furthermore, ZAF-46 and ZAF-47, hits from the screen, were derivatives of the same series containing quinolinoxy and olefin modifications, suggesting that an andrographolide scaffold mounted with these unique moieties could be a potential anti-EV-A71/HFMD strategy.

Isolation and Identification of Andrographis paniculata (Chuanxinlian) and Its Biologically Active Constituents Inhibited Enterovirus 71-Induced Cell Apoptosis

Aim:Andrographis paniculata (Burm. f.) Nees (also known as Chuanxinlian in Chinese) of Acanthaceae family is one of the Chinese herbs reputed to be effective in the treatment of inflammation, infection, cold, and fever. Enterovirus 71 (EV71) is one of the most important enteroviruses that cause hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) accompanied with neurological complication.

Methods: To explore an anti-infective Chinese herb medicine, pure compounds isolated or synthesized analogues from A. paniculata (AP) ethyl acetate (EtOAc) extract are used to explore their anti-EV71-induced cytotoxicity. The antiviral activity was determined by cytopathic effect (CPE) reduction, and sub-G1 assays were used for measuring lysis and apoptosis of EV71-infected rhabdomyosarcoma (RD) cells. IFNγ-driven luciferase reporter assay was used to evaluate their potential roles in activation of immune responses.

Results: Our data showed that EV71-induced sub-G1 phase of RD cells was dose dependently increased. Highly apoptotic EV71-infected RD cells were reduced by AP extract treatment. Ergosterol peroxide (4) has the most anti-apoptotic effect among these seven compounds. In addition, 3,19-O-acetyl-14-deoxy-11,12-didehydroandrographolide (8) synthesized from acetylation of compound 7 showed significantly better antiviral activity and the lowest sub-G1 phase of 6%–18%. Further investigation of IFNγ-inducer activity of these compounds showed that compounds 3, 6, 10, 11, and 12 had significantly higher IFNγ luciferase activities, suggesting their potential to promote IFNγ expression and thus activate immune responses for antivirus function.

Conclusion: Our study demonstrated that bioactive compounds of AP and its derivatives either protecting EV71-infected RD cells from sub-G1 arrest or possessing IFNγ-inducer activity might be feasible for the development of anti-EV71 agents.