Boiling-induced nanoparticles and their constitutive proteins from Isatis indigotica Fort. root decoction: Purification and identification

Formation of self-assembly aggregates in traditional Chinese medicine decoctions and their application in cancer treatments

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) formulas, based on the principles of Chinese medicine, have a long history and are widely applied in the treatment of diseases. Compared to single-component drugs, TCM formulas demonstrate superior therapeutic efficacy and fewer side effects owing to their synergistic effects and mechanisms of detoxification and efficacy enhancement. However, various drawbacks, such as the uncertainty of functional targets and molecular mechanisms, poor solubility of components, and low bioavailability, have limited the global promotion and application of TCM formulas. To overcome these limitations, self-assembled aggregate (SA) nanotechnology has emerged as a promising solution. SA nanotechnology significantly enhances the bioavailability and anti-tumor efficacy of TCM by improving its absorption, distribution, and precise targeting capabilities, thereby providing an innovative solution for the modernization and internationalization of TCM. This review delves into the nature and common interactions of SAs based on the latest research developments. The structural characteristics of SAs in TCM formulas, paired-herb decoctions, and single-herb decoctions are analyzed and their self-assembly mechanisms are systematically elucidated. In addition, this article elaborates on the advantages of SAs in cancer treatment, particularly in enhancing the bioavailability and targeting capabilities. Furthermore, this review aims to provide new perspectives for the study of TCM compatibility and its clinical applications, thereby driving the innovative development of nanomaterials in this field. On addressing the technological challenges, SAs are expected to further promote the global application and recognition of TCM in the healthcare sector.

The pharmacodynamic and pharmacological mechanisms underlying nanovesicles of natural products: Developments and challenges

Natural products such as Traditional Chinese Medicines (TCMs) show great advantages in the treatment and prevention of diseases, but the unclear effective ingredients and mechanisms are key obstacles to restrict their rapid development. Under the guidance of the theoretical guidance of reductionism and the theoretical of allopathic medicine, some researches have indeed achieved some breakthrough results. However, these incomplete methods mainly limited to direct actions or indirect actions (such as the intermediated substances mediated cross-organ or cross-system regulation) mechanism of single active ingredient derived from natural products, which are often inconsistent with Systemism and Harmonizing Medicine and make it difficult to reasonably explain the pharmacodynamics and pharmacological mechanism of most natural products. Actually, effective pharmaceutical ingredients often do not exist in the form of free monomers, but prefer to assembly nanovesicles (NVs) for a combinational pharmacological effect, mainly including self-assembled nanoparticles (SANs) and exosome-like nanoparticles (ELNs). These developments of NVs-based application are a good supplement to existing pharmacological mechanism research. Hence, this review focuses on the developments and strategies of the pharmacodynamics and pharmacological mechanism of NVs-based TCMs under the combining theory of traditional Chinese and western medicine. On this basis, a novel "multidimensional combination" research approach is proposed firstly, which will provide new strategies and directions for breaking through the bottleneck of pharmacological mechanism research, and promote the clinical application of innovative natural products including TCMs.

Recognition on pharmacodynamic ingredients of natural products

Natural products (NPs) play an irreplaceable role in the intervention of various diseases and have been considered a critical source of drug development. Many new pharmacodynamic compounds with potential clinical applications have recently been derived from NPs. These compounds range from small molecules to polysaccharides, polypeptides, proteins, self-assembled nanoparticles, and extracellular vesicles. This review summarizes various active substances found in NPs. The investigation of active substances in NPs can potentiate new drug development and promote the in-depth comprehension of the mechanism of action of NPs that can be beneficial in the prevention and treatment of human diseases.

Bio-soft matter derived from traditional Chinese medicine: Characterizations of hierarchical structure, assembly mechanism, and beyond

Structural and functional explorations on bio-soft matter such as micelles, vesicles, nanoparticles, aggregates or polymers derived from traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has emerged as a new topic in the field of TCM. The discovery of such cross-scaled bio-soft matter may provide a unique perspective for unraveling the new effective material basis of TCM as well as developing innovative medicine and biomaterials. Despite the rapid rise of TCM-derived bio-soft matter, their hierarchical structure and assembly mechanism must be unambiguously probed for a further in-depth understanding of their pharmacological activity. In this review, the current emerged TCM-derived bio-soft matter assembled from either small molecules or macromolecules is introduced, and particularly the unambiguous elucidation of their hierarchical structure and assembly mechanism with combined electron microscopic and spectroscopic techniques is depicted. The pros and cons of each technique are also discussed. The future challenges and perspective of TCM-derived bio-soft matter are outlined, particularly the requirement for their precise in situ structural determination is highlighted.

Challenges in Functional Food Products with the Incorporation of Some Microalgae

Much attention has been given to the use of microalgae to produce functional foods that have valuable bioactive chemicals, including essential amino acids, polyunsaturated fatty acids, vitamins, carotenoids, fiber, and minerals. Microalgal biomasses are increasingly being used to improve the nutritional values of foods because of their unique nutrient compositions that are beneficial to human health. Their protein content and amino acid composition are the most important components. The microalgal biomass used in the therapeutic supplement industry is dominated by bio-compounds like astaxanthin, β-carotene, polyunsaturated fatty acids like eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid, and polysaccharides such as β-glucan. The popularity of microalgal supplements is growing because of the health benefits of their bioactive substances. Moreover, some microalgae, such as Dunaliella, Arthrospira (Spirulina), Chlorella, and Haematococcus, are commonly used microalgal species in functional food production. The incorporation of microalgal biomass leads not only to enhanced nutritional value but also to improved sensory quality of food products without altering their cooking or textural characteristics. Microalgae, because of their eco-friendly potential, have emerged as one of the most promising and novel sources of new functional foods. This study reviews some recent and relevant works, as well as the current challenges for future research, using different methods of chemical modification in foods with the addition of a few commercial algae to allow their use in nutritional and sensory areas. It can be concluded that the production of functional foods through the use of microalgae in foods has become an important issue.

Interpreting the efficacy enhancement mechanism of Chinese medicine processing from a biopharmaceutic perspective

Chinese medicine processing (CMP) is a unique pharmaceutical technology that distinguishes it from natural medicines. Current research primarily focuses on changes in chemical components to understand the mechanisms behind efficacy enhancement in processing. However, this paper presents a novel perspective on the biopharmaceutics of CMP. It provides a comprehensive overview of the current research, emphasizing two crucial aspects: the role of 'heat' during processing and the utilization of processing adjuvants. The paper highlights the generation of easily absorbed components through the hydrolysis of glycosides by 'heat', as well as the facilitation of dissolution, absorption, and targeted distribution of active components through the utilization of processing adjuvants. From a biopharmaceutic perspective, this paper provides a lucid comprehension of the scientific foundation for augmenting the efficacy of CMP. Moreover, it proposes a three-dimensional research framework encompassing chemical reactions, phase transitions, and biopharmaceutical properties to further investigate the mechanisms involved in enhancing the efficacy of CMP.

Insights into the Mechanism of Supramolecular Self-Assembly in the Astragalus membranaceus-Angelica sinensis Codecoction

Astragalus membranaceus (Fisch.) Bge. (AM) and Angelica sinensis (Oliv.) Diels (AS) constitute a classic herb pair in prescriptions to treat myocardial fibrosis. To date, research on the AM-AS herb pair has mainly focused on the chemical compositions associated with therapeutic efficacy. However, supermolecules actually exist in herb codecoctions, and their self-assembly mechanism remains unclear. In this study, supermolecules originating from AM-AS codoping reactions (AA-NPs) were first reported. The chemical compositions of AA-NPs showed a dynamic self-assembly process. AA-NPs with different decoction times had similar surface groups and amorphous states; however, the size distributions of these nanoparticles might be different. Taking the interaction between Z-ligustilide and astragaloside IV as an example to understand the self-assembly mechanism of AA-NPs, it was found that the complex could be formed with a molar ratio of 2:1. Later, AA-NPs were proven to be effective in the treatment of myocardial fibrosis both in vivo and in vitro, the in-depth mechanisms of which were related to the recovery of cardiac function, reduced collagen deposition, and inhibition of the endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition that occurred in the process of myocardial fibrosis. Thus, AA-NPs may be the chemical material basis of the molecular mechanism of the AM-AS decoction in treating isoproterenol-induced myocardial fibrosis. Taken together, this work provides a supramolecular strategy for revealing the interaction between effective chemical components in herb-pair decoctions.

Chemical basis and self-assembly mechanism of submicroparticles forming in chrysanthemum tea infusion

Submicroparticles are important components generally existed in chrysanthemum tea infusion, but their functionality, chemical composition, structure and self-assembly mechanism are unclear due to lack of suitable preparation method and research strategy. This study showed that submicroparticles promoted the intestinal absorption of phenolics in chrysanthemum tea infusion by comparison of chrysanthemum tea infusion, submicroparticles-free chrysanthemum tea infusion and submicroparticles. Submicroparticles efficiently prepared by ultrafiltration mainly consisting of polysaccharide and phenolics accounted for 22% of total soluble solids in chrysanthemum tea infusion. The polysaccharide, which was determined as esterified pectin with a spherical conformation, provided spherical skeleton to form submicroparticles. A total of 23 individual phenolic compounds were identified in submicroparticles with the total phenolic content of 7.63 μg/mL. The phenolics not only attached to the external region of spherical pectin by hydrogen bonds, but also got into hydrophobic cavities of spherical pectin and attached to the internal region by hydrophobic interactions.

Formation of a traditional Chinese medicine self-assembly nanostrategy and its application in cancer: a promising treatment

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has been used for centuries to prevent and treat a variety of illnesses, and its popularity is increasing worldwide. However, the clinical applications of natural active components in TCM are hindered by the poor solubility and low bioavailability of these compounds. To address these issues, Chinese medicine self-assembly nanostrategy (CSAN) is being developed. Many active components of TCM possess self-assembly properties, allowing them to form nanoparticles (NPs) through various noncovalent forces. Self-assembled NPs (SANs) are also present in TCM decoctions, and they are closely linked to the therapeutic effects of these remedies. SAN is gaining popularity in the nano research field due to its simplicity, eco-friendliness, and enhanced biodegradability and biocompatibility compared to traditional nano preparation methods. The self-assembly of active ingredients from TCM that exhibit antitumour effects or are combined with other antitumour drugs has generated considerable interest in the field of cancer therapeutics. This paper provides a review of the principles and forms of CSAN, as well as an overview of recent reports on TCM that can be used for self-assembly. Additionally, the application of CSAN in various cancer diseases is summarized, and finally, a concluding summary and thoughts are proposed. We strongly believe that CSAN has the potential to offer fresh strategies and perspectives for the modernization of TCM.

Flavor mechanism of micro-nanoparticles and correlation analysis between flavor substances in thermoultrasonic treated fishbone soup

To study the physicochemical properties of micro-nanoparticles (MNPs) in thermoultrasonic treated fishbone soup, it was subjected to ultra-filtration with a 100 kDa ultrafiltration membrane to obtain large MNPs (LMNPs) and small MNPs (SMNPs). LMNPs and SMNPs were treated with force-breakers, and the interactions of the MNPs with five characteristic volatile compounds were investigated. LMNPs covered most proteins (222.66 mg/mL) and fatty acids (363.76 mg/g), while SMNPs was mostly soluble small molecules with taste substances like total free amino acids (85.26 mg/g), organic acids (2.55 mg/mL), and 5'-nucleotides (169.17 mg/100 mL). The stability of LMNPs is significantly higher than raw bone soup, and SMNPs can exist stably in the solution. Correlation analysis between flavor substance content and flavor suggested that the overall flavor profile of halibut bone soup was closely related to the content changes of 72 significant influence variables. The binding of LMNPs to characteristic flavor compounds was largely affected by hydrophobic interactions, hydrogen bonds, and ionic effects. While the binding of SMNPs to characteristic flavor compounds was largely determined by hydrophobic interaction and hydrogen bonding. This study explores the characteristics of MNPs and provides the possibility to clarify the interaction mechanism between MNPs and flavor.

Carrier-free nanoplatforms from natural plants for enhanced bioactivity

BACKGROUND

Natural plants as well as traditional Chinese medicine have made outstanding contributions to the health and reproduction of human beings and remain the basis and major resource for drug innovation. Carrier-free nanoplatforms completely self-assembled by pure molecules or therapeutic components have attracted increasing attention due to their advantages of improved pharmacodynamics/pharmacokinetics, reduced toxicity, and high drug loading. In recent years, carrier-free nanoplatforms produced by self-assembly from natural plants have contributed to progress in a variety of therapeutic modalities. Notably, these nanoplatforms based on the interactions of components from different natural plants improve efficiency and depress toxicity.

AIM OF REVIEW

In this review, different types of self-assembled nanoplatforms are first summarized, mainly including nanoassemblies of pure small molecules isolated from different plants, extracellular vesicles separated from fresh plants, charcoal nanocomponents obtained from charred plants, and nanoaggregates from plants formulae decoctions. Key Scientific Concepts of Review: We mainly focus on composition, self-assembly mechanisms, biological activity and modes of action. Finally, a future perspective of existing challenges with respect to the clinical application of plant-based carrier-free nanoplatforms is discussed, which may be instructive to further develop effective carrier-free nanoplatforms from natural plants in the future.

Study on Supramolecules in Traditional Chinese Medicine Decoction

With the application of the concept of supramolecular chemistry to various fields, a large number of supramolecules have been discovered. The chemical components of traditional Chinese medicine have various sources and unique structures. During the high-temperature boiling process, various active components form supramolecules due to complex interactions. The supramolecular structure in a traditional Chinese medicine decoction can not only be used as a drug carrier to promote the absorption and distribution of medicinal components but may also have biological activities superior to those of single active ingredients or their physical mixtures. By summarizing the relevant research results over recent years, this paper introduces the research progress regarding supramolecules in various decoctions, laying a foundation for further research into supramolecules in traditional Chinese medicine decoctions, and provides a new perspective for revealing the compatibility mechanisms of traditional Chinese medicine, guiding clinical medications, and developing new nanometers materials.

Polysaccharide Nanoparticles from Isatis indigotica Fort. Root Decoction: Diversity, Cytotoxicity, and Antiviral Activity

It has been revealed that numerous nanoparticles are formed during the boiling preparation of traditional Chinese medical decoctions and culinary soups. They may possess physiological effects different from those of constituent components and are worth paying attention to but are barely noticed and investigated as of yet. In this study, six groups of nanoparticles, whose size ranged from 57 to 300 nm, were successfully isolated from the decoction of Isatis indigotica Fort. root, according to their particle size by the means of size-exclusive chromatography. All of the obtained nanoparticles have a high content of polysaccharides, which distinguishes them from the disclosed BLG protein nanoparticles. They also have high similarities in other compositions, surface charge, and stimuli responses. However, four out of these six nanoparticles (F2, F3, F4, and F5) exhibited significant antiviral activity against influenza virus H1N1, and their antiviral activities and cytotoxicity towards MDCK cells varied with their sizes. It suggested that the antiviral efficacy of BLG decoction could also be from its nanoparticles besides its well-known antiviral phytochemicals. It also implied that the biological effects of these polysaccharide nanoparticles, including cytotoxicity and antiviral activity, may be correlative with the physicochemical properties, especially the particle size.

Formation of colloidal micro-nano particles and flavor characteristics of Greenland halibut bone soup

In this study, halibut bone, a byproduct of Greenland halibut processing, was prepared into a thick soup through a non-frying process. The formation of colloidal micro-nano particles and flavor characteristics in halibut bone soup was explored. The results showed that the nutrients in halibut bones migrated to the soup continuously with the cooking process and reached the highest concentration (total sugars, 38.16 mg/100 ml; water-soluble proteins, 25.71 mg/ml; fatty acids, 2.15 g/100 ml; solids, 1.14 g/100 ml) at 150 min. Taste substances such as organic acids, 5'-nucleotides and total free amino acids (TFAAs) content in halibut bone soup also reached maximum at 150 min. At this time, results for particle size showed that MNPs with uniform size (725.62 nm) were formed, which made the bone soup milky white, stable, and had good tasting. Headspace-gas chromatography-ion mobility spectrometry results showed that a total of 59 volatile substances were detected from the halibut bone soup. The content of volatile flavor substances in the 150 min group was lower than that in the 90-120 min group. Meanwhile, aldehydes and ketones gradually became esters. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: Soup is an indispensable part of the world food culture. In order to increase the added value of Greenland halibut, halibut bone soup was studied in this paper. This study found that halibut bone soup that had not been fried, formed the MNPs and has a more harmonious and pleasant flavor. Thus, non-fried halibut bone soup is a good processing method and can improve economic efficiency.

Effects of thermoultrasonic treatment on characteristics of micro-nano particles and flavor in Greenland halibut bone soup

In order to investigate the effects of thermoultrasonic treatment (TUT) on the formation of colloidal micro-nano particles (MNPs) and the quality of halibut bone soup, nutrients, particle characteristics, and flavor characteristics were analyzed. The morphology of MNPs was studied using an optical microscope. Results showed that TUT could increase the nutrient content (total sugars, 22.15 mg/100 mL; water soluble proteins, 173.24 mg/mL; fatty acids, 1779.7 mg/100 mL; solids, 3.16 g/100 mL), reduce the particle size (605.92 nm) and interfacial tension. Meanwhile, TUT make the halibut bone soup has better emulsifying characteristics and stability. The contents of flavor substances, such as esters, 5'-nucleotides, organic acids in the halibut bone soup were more abundant, while the contents of hexanal and 1-octen-3-ol and fishy off-flavor were reduced in TUT group. The overall odor and taste outline were more harmonious. Therefore, TUT can be used in the production of high quality fish bone soup, and TUT could be considered as a good deep processing technology for halibut bone and improve economic efficiency.

Natural Nano-Drug Delivery System in Coptidis Rhizoma Extract with Modified Berberine Hydrochloride Pharmacokinetics

Purpose

This study aimed to evaluate the pharmaceutical and pharmacokinetic effects of the natural nanoparticles (Nnps) isolated from Coptidis Rhizoma extract on berberine hydrochloride (BBR) and systematically explore the related mechanisms.

Methods

Firstly, Nnps were isolated from Coptidis Rhizoma extract and then an Nnps-BBR complex was prepared. After qualitative and quantitative analysis in terms of size, Zeta potential, morphology, and composition of the Nnps and the Nnps-BBR complex, the effects of the Nnps on the crystallization of BBR were characterized. The effects of the Nnps on the solubility and dissolution of BBR were then evaluated. In addition, the effects of the Nnps on BBR in terms of cellular uptake, transmembrane transport, metabolic stability, and pharmacokinetics in mice were studied.

Results

The Nnps had an average size of 166.6 ± 1.3 nm and Zeta potential of −12.5 ± 0.2 mV. The Nnps were formed by denaturation of co-existing plant proteins with molecular weight < 30 kDa. The Nnps adsorbed or dispersed BBR, thereby promoting BBR transformation from crystal to amorphous form and improving its solubility and dissolution. The Nnps carried and promoted BBR uptake by human colonic adenocarcinoma (Caco-2) cells via caveolae-mediated endocytosis, reducing P-gp-mediated efflux of BBR in mice gut sacs and Madin-Darby canine kidney cells stably expressing the transporter P-gp (MDCK-MDR1) cells. Moreover, the Nnps improved BBR metabolic stability in mouse intestinal S9, promoting BBR intestinal absorption in mice, as shown by increased peak BBR concentration (C_max, 1182.3 vs 310.2 ng/mL) and exposure level (AUC_{0–12 h}, 2842.8 vs 1447.0 ng·h/mL) in mouse portal vein. In addition, the Nnps increased BBR exposure level in mouse livers (95,443.2 vs 43,586.2 ng·h/g liver).

Conclusion

The proteinaceous nanoparticles isolated from Coptidis Rhizoma extract can form a natural nano-drug delivery system with BBR, thereby significantly improving the pharmacokinetics of oral BBR.

The Meridian Tropism and Classification of Red Yeast Rice Investigated by Monitoring Dermal Electrical Potential

Red yeast rice is a traditional Chinese medicine and food that has been purported to color food, ferment, and lower cholesterol. In order to study the antioxidative capacity of red yeast rice and the effects on electrical potential difference (EPD) of 12 acupuncture meridians, the pH value, oxidation reduction potential (ORP), ABTS, FRAP, T-SOD, and particle size distribution of red yeast rice were analyzed. 20 volunteers were recruited and randomly divided into two groups, the red yeast rice group (10 g red yeast rice and 40 g water) and control CK group (50 g water). The left 12 acupuncture meridians' EPD was real-time monitored. Samples were taken at the 10th minutes. The whole procedure continued for 70 minutes. It is shown that the pH value of the red yeast rice was 4.22, the ORP was 359.63 mV, the ABTS was 0.48 mmol Trolox, the FRAP was 0.08 mmol FeSO₄, the T-SOD was 4.71 U, and the average particle size was 108 nm (7.1%) and 398.1 nm (92.9%). The results of 12 acupuncture meridians' EPD showed that the red yeast rice can significantly affect the EPD of stomach, heart, small intestine, and liver meridians.

Effect of Ginger on Chemical Composition, Physical and Sensory Characteristics of Chicken Soup

In order to investigate the effect of ginger on taste components and sensory characteristics in chicken soup, the content of amino acids, organic acids, 5′-nucleotides, and mineral elements were determined in chicken soup sample. With the ginger added, free amino acids in chicken soup obviously increased and exceeded the total amounts in ginger soup and chicken soup. The content of glutamic acid (122.74 μg/mL) was the highest among 17 free amino acids in ginger chicken soup. Meanwhile, six organic acids detected in chicken soup all obviously increased, among which lactic acid (1523.58 μg/mL) and critic acid (4692.41 μg/mL) exceeded 1000 μg/mL. The content of 5′-nucleotides had no obvious difference between ginger chicken soup and chicken soup. Compared with chicken soup, ginger chicken soup had a smaller particle size (136.43 nm) and color difference (79.69), but a higher viscosity. With ginger added in chicken soup, the content of seven mineral elements was reduced, and the content of total sugar increased. Results from an electronic tongue indicated a difference in taste profiles among the soups. The taste components and sensory quality of chicken soup were obviously affected by adding the ginger.

Radix Pseudostellariae protein-curcumin nanocomplex: Improvement on the stability, cellular uptake and antioxidant activity of curcumin

Radix Pseudostellariae protein (RPP) with satisfactory antioxidant activity and self-assembled ability was extracted from dried Radix Pseudostellariae. In this study, RPP-curcumin nanocomplex (RPP-Cur) was fabricated, and its improvement on the stability, cellular uptake and antioxidant activity of curcumin was investigated. RPP-Cur with homogeneously spherical structure exhibited good stability, which could maintain the morphology against simulated gastrointestinal digestion and up to 300 mM ionic concentration. After RPP nanoparticles encapsulation, the retention of curcumin increased 1.45 times under UV irradiation for 6 h. Besides, RPP-Cur exhibited additive reducing power of curcumin and RPP. The transport efficiency of hydrophobic curcumin across Caco-2 cells monolayer was greatly improved by RPP nanoparticle by 3.7 folds. RPP-Cur was able to be internalized by Caco-2 cells dose-dependently via macropinocytosis and clathrin-mediated endocytosis. The cellular uptake efficiency of embedded curcumin in RPP nanoparticles by Caco-2 cells was significantly higher than that of free curcumin, which might contribute to the enhanced intracellular antioxidant activity of RPP-Cur. These findings suggest that the proteins from Radix Pseudostellariae have potential to be developed into novel delivery system with intrinsic antioxidant activity for the hydrophobic active molecules in healthy food field.

Properties of the Novel Chinese Herbal Medicine Formula Qu Du Qiang Fei I Hao Fang Warrant Further Research to Determine Its Clinical Efficacy in COVID-19 Treatment

Introduction: COVID-19, the infectious disease induced by the virus severe acute respiratory syndrome-related coronavirus-2, has caused increasing global health concerns, and novel strategies to prevent or ameliorate the condition are needed. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) herbal formulas have been used in the treatment of epidemics in China for over 2000 years. This study investigated the therapeutic effects of Qu Du Qiang Fei I Hao Fang (QDQF1) "Eliminating Virus and Strengthening Lung-No.1 Formula," in the treatment and prevention of COVID-19. QDQF1 consists of Shēng Huáng Qí, Běi Shā Shēn, Chuān Jié Gěng, Zhì Fáng Fēng, Qīng Lián Qiáo, Jīn Yín Huā, Bǎn Lán Gēn, Chǎo Cāng Zhú, Zǐ Huā Dì Dīng, and Shēng gān căo. Materials and Methods: A literature survey was performed by conducting systematic electronic searches in PubMed, Science Direct, Google Scholar, and in books. Results: Each herb in this formula has long been used to treat various diseases due to their pharmacologic, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects that inhibit microbial adherence to mucosal or epithelial surfaces, inhibit endotoxin shock, and selectively inhibit microbial growth. Conclusion: The herbs chosen for the QDQF1 formula have been historically paired, and cast a wide net over the potential COVID-19 symptomatology. Their combined functions provide comprehensive and balanced therapeutics from both TCM and allopathic perspectives. Individual herbs and herbal combinations are analyzed for their applicability to pertinent TCM patterns of COVID-19 presentations, including heat and cold patterns, damp and phlegm syndromes, toxicity, and deficiency patterns. A further study in a randomized, double-blind, and placebo-controlled trial of QDQF1 is recommended to assess its therapeutic efficacy in the treatment of COVID-19.

Chemical compositions and sensory characteristics of pork rib and Silkie chicken soups prepared by various cooking techniques

Meat soup is an important diet with desirable taste and abundant nutrients. Unveiling the chemical composition of soup will help to understand the health effects. In this work, pork ribs and Silkie chicken were used to prepare soups by boiling, steaming and four-stage stewing, respectively. The chemical composition and sensory qualities of these soups were obviously influenced by the cooking technique. Silkie chicken and pork rib soups prepared by four-stage stewing technique had particle size smaller than 850 nm, smaller chromatic aberration, higher stability, higher levels of free amino acids, lower levels of fat and total triglycerides than the other two techniques. More abundant flavor and taste characteristics were also detected. The high temperature boiling technique could promote the accumulation of the mineral elements in soup. According to healthy and sensory concerns, stewing was the best choice for preparing soups of pork rib and Silkie chicken.

Micro-nano particle formation and transformation mechanisms of broth in meat braised processing

The formation and transformation mechanisms of micro-nano particles (MNPs) in broth during meat braising were systematically investigated through a sophisticated controlled process. Dynamic changes in the morphology, composition and spatial distribution of MNPs were comprehensively characterized, and subsequently the mechanisms were visually uncovered from microcosmic-spatial perspectives. MNPs formed as circular-shape colloidal systems with an aggrandizing tendency for particle number and size and gradually stabilize eventually. Specifically, the major MNPs gradually increased the size from <400 nm to ~1500 nm and accumulated triglycerides and glycoconjugates resulting from lipid oxidation, Maillard reaction, etc. Continuous formation of MNPs in broth progressively facilitated the spatial coalescence and self-assembly of free substances driven by intermolecular interactions, and consequently principal nutrients and flavor compounds further accumulated in the MNPs by the braising process. Hence, this work not only revealed the MNP formation and transformation mechanisms but offered a foundation for investigating MNP-dependent effect on broth flavor.

Synergistic Mechanisms of Constituents in Herbal Extracts during Intestinal Absorption: Focus on Natural Occurring Nanoparticles

The systematic separation strategy has long and widely been applied in the research and development of herbal medicines. However, the pharmacological effects of many bioactive constituents are much weaker than those of the corresponding herbal extracts. Thus, there is a consensus that purer herbal extracts are sometimes less effective. Pharmacological loss of purified constituents is closely associated with their significantly reduced intestinal absorption after oral administration. In this review, pharmacokinetic synergies among constituents in herbal extracts during intestinal absorption were systematically summarized to broaden the general understanding of the pharmaceutical nature of herbal medicines. Briefly, some coexisting constituents including plant-produced primary and secondary metabolites, promote the intestinal absorption of active constituents by improving solubility, inhibiting first-pass elimination mediated by drug-metabolizing enzymes or drug transporters, increasing the membrane permeability of enterocytes, and reversibly opening the paracellular tight junction between enterocytes. Moreover, some coexisting constituents change the forms of bioactive constituents via mechanisms including the formation of natural nanoparticles. This review will focus on explaining this new synergistic mechanism. Thus, herbal extracts can be considered mixtures of bioactive compounds and pharmacokinetic synergists. This review may provide ideas and strategies for further research and development of herbal medicines.

A study of nanometre aggregates formation mechanism and antipyretic effect in Bai-Hu-Tang, an ancient Chinese herbal decoction

BACKGROUND

Bai-Hu-Tang (BHT), a Chinese herbal decoction used as an antipyretic agent, results from the combination of Anemarrhena asphodeloides Bunge, Glycyrrhizae, Japonica rice, and Gypsum. In our previous study, we identified nanoaggregates in BHT. However, the present study aimed to analyze and elucidate the mechanism of nanoaggregate formation and to investigate its antipyretic effect.

METHODS

A BHT decoction extract was split into 15 groups, and in each group, the extract was further separated into two solutions: Nano-phase and Decoction. The physicochemical properties of these solutions, such as particle size, salinity, conductivity, and surface tension were investigated, and analyzed the 15 groups of by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and fingerprint chromatography. Furthermore, the antipyretic effect of nanoaggregates was evaluated through enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays, HE staining, Western Blot, and Real-time PCR.

RESULTS

In the 15 groups, the salinity and conductivity results showed a promoting and stabilizing effect towards the Nano-phase formation. Analysis of the surface tension indicated good solubilization of Radix Glycyrrhizae. The TEM analysis of the BHT separated extracts revealed that only in the presence of Japonica rice the Nano-phase is formed. Sixteen common peaks were identified in the BHT fingerprint chromatogram, and the main chemical components were Neomangiferin, Mangiferin, Liquiritin, and Ammonium glycyrrhizinate. Furthermore, BHT and nanoaggregates from Bai-Hu-Tang (N-BHT) groups did not differ in the main chemical components. Additionally, the N-BHT group had the same antipyretic effect compared with the BHT group. However, the pathological analysis indicated that treatment with N-BHT could ameliorate the lung damage in the rat. At the same time, N-BHT group inhibited expression of several proteins, specifically IL-1β, TRPV4, NF-κB, and TNF-α, which agreed with the Real-time PCR results.

CONCLUSION

We identified the key factors that are involved in the nano-phase formation. Also, by Western blot and Real-time PCR methods, we investigated the N-BHT mechanism of antipyretic action. The discovery of the N-BHT formation would provide a new idea of studying traditional Chinese medicine decoction.

Characterization, evaluation of nutritional parameters of Radix isatidis protein and its antioxidant activity in D-galactose induced ageing mice

BACKGROUND

Radix isatidis (Isatis indigotica Fort.) is an ancient medicinal herb, which has been applied to the prevention and treatment of influenza virus since ancient times. In recent years, the antioxidant activity of Radix isatidis has been widely concerned by researchers. Our previous studies have shown that Radix isatidis protein (RIP) has good antioxidant activity in vitro. In this study, the composition of the protein was characterized and its antioxidant activity in vivo was evaluated.

METHODS

The model of oxidative damage in mice was established by subcutaneous injection of D-galactose for 7 weeks. Commercially available kits were used to determine the content of protein and several oxidation indexes in different tissues of mice. The tissue samples were stained with hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) and the pathological changes were observed by optical microscope. The molecular weight of RIP was analyzed by sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE). The amino acid composition of RIP was determined by a non-derivative method developed by our research group.

RESULTS

RIP significantly increased the activities of antioxidant enzymes such as SOD, CAT, GSH-Px and total antioxidant capability (TAOC) but decreased the MDA level in the serum, kidney and liver. H&E stained sections of liver and kidney revealed D-galactose could cause serious injury and RIP could substantially attenuate the injury. The analysis of SDS-PAGE showed that four bands with molecular weights of 19.2 kDa, 21.5 kDa, 24.8 kDa and 40.0 kDa were the main protein components of RIP.

CONCLUSIONS

The results suggested that RIP had excellent antioxidant activity, which could be explored as a health-care product to retard aging and a good source of protein nutrition for human consumption.

Boiling Licorice Produces Self-Assembled Protein Nanoparticles: A Novel Source of Bioactive Nanomaterials

As a popular ingredient for western and traditional Chinese medicine, the root and rhizome of Chinese licorice (Glycyrrhiza uralensis Fisch.) is often administered in the form of a decoction. The protein nanoparticles (NPs) self-assembled during the process of decoction. A major constitutive protein (GLP) was purified and determined to have a molecular weight of 28 kDa with an N-terminal sequence of NPDGL IACYC GQYCW. Over 80% of the purified GLP self-assembled into spherical NPs with diameters of 74.1 ± 0.7 nm and ζ-potential of -24.3 ± 1.7 mV when boiled in Tris-HCl buffer (pH = 7.9, 20 mM) at 100 °C for 60 min. Each nanoparticle was estimated by the SEC-MALLS approach to be composed of approximately 23 protein molecules. The NPs and GLP showed low cellular toxicity upon four types of cells including MDCK, L-02, HepG2, and Caco2 cells, while the NPs promoted proliferation of normal hepatocytes by 67%. The NPs solubilized the insoluble astragaloside IV by encapsulation. The results suggest a great potential for GLP-NPs as a promising prototype of a type of drug vehicle, a novel source of bioactive nanomaterials from herbal proteins, as well as a new mode of function with herbal components.

Isolation and Characterization of a Lectin-like Protein (SBLP) from the Dried Roots of Scutellaria baicalensis (Lamiaceae)

A novel lectin-like protein with MW 63.2 kDa, designated as SBLP, has been isolated and characterized from the dried roots of Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi (Lamiaceae). SBLP was purified by ammonium sulfate precipitation and anion exchange chromatography. It is a glycoprotein according to a PAS staining assay and consisting of protein (86.0%) and sugar (14.0%). Its N-terminal amino acid sequence was determined as GSAVGFLY by Edman degradation. SBLP showed hemagglutinating activity against human and rooster erythrocytes, which were stable below 60°C and in the pH range of 4 −10. Furthermore, SBLP was found to be stimulated by Ca2+, Na+, Ba2+, Zn2+ ions, which suggested it was a metal-dependent lectin. SBLP inhibited the growth of Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. lycopersici and Alternaria eichhorniae in the a dose-dependent manner, and suppressed the proliferation of HepG2 tumor cells with an IC50 of 1.00 μM. This is the first report of a lectin from Radix Scutellariae.