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Wu D, Liu J, Guo Z, Wang L, Yao Z, Wu Q, Lu Y, Lv W. Natural bioactive compounds reprogram bile acid metabolism in MAFLD: Multi-target mechanisms and therapeutic implications. Int Immunopharmacol 2025; 157:114708. [PMID: 40306110 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2025.114708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2025] [Revised: 04/20/2025] [Accepted: 04/20/2025] [Indexed: 05/02/2025]
Abstract
Metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) has become an increasingly prevalent liver disorder worldwide, being closely associated with obesity, metabolic syndrome, and insulin resistance. Bile acids (BAs), beyond their traditional role in lipid digestion, play a pivotal part in regulating lipid and glucose metabolism as well as inflammatory responses. Recent investigations have recognized BAs as key factors in the onset and progression of MAFLD, mainly via their interactions with nuclear receptors such as the farnesoid X receptor (FXR) and the G protein-coupled bile acid receptor (TGR5). Additionally, active compounds derived from traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) have shown promising potential in the treatment of MAFLD. This study systematically reviews and analyzes the molecular mechanisms and recent progress in the application of TCM active ingredients for MAFLD treatment, with a focus on their regulation of BAs. These active ingredients, including saponins, flavonoids, polysaccharides, and sterols, exert therapeutic effects through diverse mechanisms, such as modulating BA synthesis and mediating receptor-signaling pathways, and are expected to restore metabolic homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongjie Wu
- Department of Infection, Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100053, China
| | - Jing Liu
- Department of Infection, Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100053, China
| | - Ziwei Guo
- Department of Infection, Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100053, China
| | - Liang Wang
- Beijing Shijitan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100038, China
| | - Ziang Yao
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing 100044, China
| | - Qingjuan Wu
- Department of Infection, Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100053, China.
| | - Yanping Lu
- Department of Hepatology, Shenzhen Bao'an District Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen 518100, China.
| | - Wenliang Lv
- Department of Infection, Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100053, China.
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Wang L, Yu H, Wang D, Yin G, Chen S, Zhang X, Yu W, Meng D, Liu H, Jiang W, Zhang F. Diosgenin alleviates lipid accumulation in NAFLD through the pathways of ferroptosis defensive and executive system. J Nutr Biochem 2025; 140:109886. [PMID: 40023201 DOI: 10.1016/j.jnutbio.2025.109886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2024] [Revised: 02/17/2025] [Accepted: 02/21/2025] [Indexed: 03/04/2025]
Abstract
The most prevalent liver condition globally is non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), for which no approved therapies currently exist. Diosgenin, an important component in plants from the Leguminosae, Dioscoreaceae, and Solanaceae families, has demonstrated considerable anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Nonetheless, the specific mechanism by which it may act in managing NAFLD remains unclear. Our research aims to explore the effects and molecular mechanisms of DG on NAFLD by utilizing both in vivo and in vitro experimental approaches. To investigate the effect of DG on hepatic steatosis, we used Sprague-Dawley rats induced by a high-fat diet (HFD) and HepG2 cells exposed to free fatty acids. Oil red O staining and hematoxylin-eosin (H&E) staining were used to explore lipid accumulation and hepatic degeneration. ROS staining, SOD, MDA, and Fe2+kits were used to detect the indexes related to oxidative stress in ferroptosis in hepatic tissues and cells. IFSP1 and pcDNA3.1-ACSL4 plasmid were used to knock down Ferroptosis suppressor protein1 (FSP1) and promote the expression of acyl-CoA synthetase long-chain family member 4 (ACSL4) in HepG2 cells. DG improved lipid metabolism disorders and liver damage induced by a high-fat diet in rats with NAFLD. Furthermore, the administration of DG notably decreased oxidative stress levels and liver Fe2+ concentrations in rats. Additionally, in vitro experiments demonstrated that DG treatment markedly attenuated ferroptosis and ROS accumulation in HepG2 cells induced by FFAs. Moreover, overexpression of hepatic ACSL4 expression by pcDNA3.1-ACSL4 plasmid promoted the regulatory effects of DG on LPCAT3 and ALOX15. Our research shows that DG can alleviate NAFLD by regulating the FSP1/COQ10 pathway of the ferroptosis defense system and the ACSL4/LPCAT3/ALOX15 pathway of the ferroptosis execution system. Therefore, DG may serve as a novel inhibitor of ferroptosis for the treatment of NAFLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linya Wang
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Hongzhuan Yu
- Weifang Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shandong, China
| | - Dongxian Wang
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Guoliang Yin
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Suwen Chen
- Department of Cardiology, Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xin Zhang
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Wenfei Yu
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Decheng Meng
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Hongshuai Liu
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Wenying Jiang
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Fengxia Zhang
- Department of Neurology, the first Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong, China.
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Liang C, Zhuang C, Cheng C, Bai J, Wu Y, Li X, Yang J, Li B, Fu W, Zhu Q, Lv J, Tan Y, Kumar Manthari R, Zhao Y, Wang J, Zhang J. Fluoride induces hepatointestinal damage and vitamin B 2 mitigation by regulating IL-17A and Bifidobacterium in ileum. J Adv Res 2025; 72:671-684. [PMID: 39097090 DOI: 10.1016/j.jare.2024.07.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2024] [Revised: 05/31/2024] [Accepted: 07/29/2024] [Indexed: 08/05/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Fluorosis is a global public health disease affecting more than 50 countries and 500 million people. Excessive fluoride damages the liver and intestines, yet the mechanisms and therapeutic approaches remain unclear. OBJECTIVES To explore the mechanisms by which fluoride-induced intestinal-hepatic damage and vitamin B2 alleviation. METHODS Fluoride and/or vitamin B2-treated IL-17A knockout and wild-type mouse models were established, the morphological and functional changes of liver and gut, total bile acid biosynthesis, metabolism, transport, and regulation of FXR-FGF15 signaling pathways were evaluated, the ileal microbiome was further analyzed by 16S rDNA sequence. Finally, Bifidobacterium supplementation mouse model was designed and re-examined the above indicators. RESULTS The results demonstrated that fluoride induced hepatointestinal injury and enterohepatic circulation disorder by altering the synthesis, transporters, and FXR-FGF15 pathway regulation of total bile acid. Importantly, the ileum was found to be the most sensitive and fluoride changed ileal microbiome particularly by reducing abundance of Bifidobacterium. While vitamin B2 supplementation attenuated fluoride-induced enterohepatic circulation dysfunction through IL-17A and ileal microbiome, Bifidobacterium supplementation also reversed fluoride-induced hepatointestinal injury. CONCLUSION Fluoride induces morphological and functional impairment of liver and gut tissues, as well as enterohepatic circulation disorder by altering total bile acid (TBA) synthesis, transporters, and FXR-FGF15 signaling regulation. Vitamin B2 attenuated fluoride-induced enterohepatic circulation disorder through IL-17A knockout and ileal microbiome regulation. The ileum was found to be the most sensitive to fluoride, leading to changes in ileal microbiome, particularly the reduction of Bifidobacterium. Furthermore, Bifidobacterium supplementation reversed fluoride-induced hepatointestinal injury. This study not only elucidates a novel mechanism by which fluoride causes hepatointestinal toxicity, but also provides a new physiological function of vitamin B2, which will be useful in the therapy of fluorosis and other hepatoenterological diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Liang
- College of Animal Science, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, Shanxi 030801, PR China
| | - Cuicui Zhuang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, Shanxi 030801, PR China
| | - Chenkai Cheng
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, Shanxi 030801, PR China
| | - Jian Bai
- College of Life Science, Lv Liang University, Lishi, Shanxi 033001, PR China
| | - Yue Wu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, Shanxi 030801, PR China
| | - Xiang Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, Shanxi 030801, PR China
| | - Jie Yang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, Shanxi 030801, PR China
| | - Bohui Li
- College of Animal Science, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, Shanxi 030801, PR China
| | - Weixiang Fu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, Shanxi 030801, PR China
| | - Qianlong Zhu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, Shanxi 030801, PR China
| | - Jiawei Lv
- College of Animal Science, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, Shanxi 030801, PR China
| | - Yanjia Tan
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, Shanxi 030801, PR China
| | - Ram Kumar Manthari
- Department of Biotechnology, GITAM Institute of Science, Gandhi Institute of Technology and Management, Visakhapatnam 530045, Andhra Pradesh, India
| | - Yangfei Zhao
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, Shanxi 030801, PR China
| | - Jundong Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, Shanxi 030801, PR China
| | - Jianhai Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, Shanxi 030801, PR China.
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Liu X, Li Y, Yuan C, Zhao Y, Zhou L, Yan Y, Ren J, Liu Q. Sophocarpine suppresses MAPK-mediated inflammation by restoring gut microbiota in colorectal cancer. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2025; 143:156833. [PMID: 40393246 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2025.156833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2025] [Revised: 04/18/2025] [Accepted: 05/05/2025] [Indexed: 05/22/2025]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Colorectal cancer (CRC), as one of the most common cancers globally, poses a significant challenge to public health due to its high incidence and mortality rates. This underscores the need for continuous exploration of new therapeutic targets and effective drugs. Sophocarpine (SC), a natural compound derived from traditional Chinese medicine, holds considerable therapeutic potential in the treatment of CRC, however, the relevant mechanisms remains unclear. PURPOSE This study aims to explore the anti-tumor effects of SC against CRC by modulating gut microbiota, and uncover potential mechanisms linking SC's therapeutic effects to gut microbiota regulation by analyzing the impact of SC on microbiota composition and CRC progression. MATERIAL This study explores the impact of SC on the gut microbiota in CRC by constructing subcutaneous xenograft tumors of CRC and integrating 16S rRNA sequencing and RNA transcriptomic sequencing. The fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) mouse model was used to validate the biological function of SC in correcting gut microbiota dysbiosis to treat CRC. Subsequently, we conducted in vitro studies on the molecular mechanisms by which SC regulates the gut microbiota as an effective hallmark of CRC treatment, using lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to simulate an inflammatory gut microbiota environment and P38 MAPK knockdown cell line. RESULTS SC significantly inhibited CRC cell proliferation with IC50 values of 2.547±0.256 μM for HCT116 and 2.851±0.332 μM for LoVo cells. In vivo experiments demonstrated that SC effectively suppressed tumor growth in xenograft models. 16S rRNA sequencing revealed that SC modulated gut microbiota composition, particularly affecting Bacteroides and Alistipes populations. SC significantly reduced the levels of inflammatory factors and inhibited the MAPK signaling pathway, as evidenced by decreased p-JNK, p-p38 MAPK, and p-NF-κB p65 expression. CONCLUSIONS Current clinical practice still lacks effective therapeutic agents targeting CRC through gut microbiota modulation. This study presents the first evidence that SC, a natural compound, exhibits dual-action therapeutic efficacy against CRC progression by simultaneously modulating gut microbial composition and suppressing MAPK pathway-mediated inflammatory responses. These findings highlight SC's novel therapeutic potential as a promising microbiota-regulating candidate for CRC intervention, offering an innovative approach that bridges microbial ecology with cancer signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangjun Liu
- Laboratory Department, Shanghai Municipal Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 274 Middle Zhijiang Road, Shanghai, 200071, China
| | - Yu Li
- Laboratory Department, Shanghai Municipal Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 274 Middle Zhijiang Road, Shanghai, 200071, China
| | - Chenyue Yuan
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Municipal Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 274 Middle Zhijiang Road, Shanghai, 200071, China
| | - Yong Zhao
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Municipal Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 274 Middle Zhijiang Road, Shanghai, 200071, China
| | - Lin Zhou
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Municipal Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 274 Middle Zhijiang Road, Shanghai, 200071, China
| | - Yuting Yan
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Municipal Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 274 Middle Zhijiang Road, Shanghai, 200071, China
| | - Jianlin Ren
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Municipal Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 274 Middle Zhijiang Road, Shanghai, 200071, China.
| | - Qingzhong Liu
- Laboratory Department, Shanghai Municipal Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 274 Middle Zhijiang Road, Shanghai, 200071, China.
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Zhang J, Zhou J, He Z, Xia Z, Liu H, Wu Y, Chen S, Wu B, Li H. Salidroside attenuates NASH through regulating bile acid-FXR/TGR5 signaling pathway via targeting gut microbiota. Int J Biol Macromol 2025; 307:142276. [PMID: 40118401 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2025.142276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2025] [Revised: 02/15/2025] [Accepted: 03/17/2025] [Indexed: 03/23/2025]
Abstract
Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is a significant threat to human health. Our previous study revealed that salidroside attenuated NASH and regulated the gut microbiota. However, whether the therapeutic effect of salidroside depends on gut microbiota remains to be determined. Therefore, we conducted further experiments to elucidate the essential functions of gut microbiota-associated metabolic pathways in the anti-NASH effects of salidroside. Our results showed that salidroside effectively alleviated lipid accumulation and inflammatory injury in NASH mice. 16S rRNA sequencing revealed that salidroside increased the abundance of Bacteroides. Mice receiving fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) from salidroside-treated also presented less hepatic steatosis and higher abundance of Bacteroides. Antibiotics eliminated the effects of salidroside on hepatic steatosis and the gut microbiota. Mechanistically, salidroside and FMT from salidroside-treated altered the bile acid (BA) profile by decreasing the levels of conjugated BAs and tauro-α/β-muricholic acid and activated downstream farnesoid X receptor (FXR) and Takeda G protein-coupled receptor 5 (TGR5). Furthermore, we found that inhibitors of bile salt hydrolase (BSH) and FXR/TGR5 abolished the effects of salidroside and reduced downstream carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1α and lipoprotein lipase expression. These data demonstrate that salidroside attenuated NASH via gut microbiota-BA-FXR/TGR5 signaling pathway and reveal the underlying mechanism of salidroside on NASH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Zhang
- Liver Disease Department of Integrative Medicine, Ningbo No.2 Hospital, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315000, China; Cixi Biomedical Research Institute, Wenzhou Medical University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315300, China
| | - Jing Zhou
- Liver Disease Department of Integrative Medicine, Ningbo No.2 Hospital, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315000, China
| | - Zheyun He
- Liver Diseases Institute, Ningbo No. 2 Hospital, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315000, China
| | - Zhanyang Xia
- Liver Disease Department of Integrative Medicine, Ningbo No.2 Hospital, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315000, China
| | - Hongliang Liu
- Liver Disease Department of Integrative Medicine, Ningbo No.2 Hospital, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315000, China
| | - Yuan Wu
- Liver Disease Department of Integrative Medicine, Ningbo No.2 Hospital, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315000, China
| | - Si Chen
- Liver Disease Department of Integrative Medicine, Ningbo No.2 Hospital, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315000, China
| | - Boming Wu
- Liver Disease Department of Integrative Medicine, Ningbo No.2 Hospital, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315000, China
| | - Hongshan Li
- Liver Disease Department of Integrative Medicine, Ningbo No.2 Hospital, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315000, China; Medical Experimental Department of Ningbo No.2 Hospital, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315000, China.
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Wang W, Gao X, Niu W, Yin J, He K. Targeting Metabolism: Innovative Therapies for MASLD Unveiled. Int J Mol Sci 2025; 26:4077. [PMID: 40362316 PMCID: PMC12071536 DOI: 10.3390/ijms26094077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2025] [Revised: 04/01/2025] [Accepted: 04/23/2025] [Indexed: 05/15/2025] Open
Abstract
The recent introduction of the term metabolic-dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) has highlighted the critical role of metabolism in the disease's pathophysiology. This innovative nomenclature signifies a shift from the previous designation of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), emphasizing the condition's progressive nature. Simultaneously, MASLD has become one of the most prevalent liver diseases worldwide, highlighting the urgent need for research to elucidate its etiology and develop effective treatment strategies. This review examines and delineates the revised definition of MASLD, exploring its epidemiology and the pathological changes occurring at various stages of the disease. Additionally, it identifies metabolically relevant targets within MASLD and provides a summary of the latest metabolically targeted drugs under development, including those in clinical and some preclinical stages. The review finishes with a look ahead to the future of targeted therapy for MASLD, with the goal of summarizing and providing fresh ideas and insights.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weixin Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China; (W.W.); (W.N.)
| | - Xin Gao
- School of Public Health, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China;
| | - Wentong Niu
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China; (W.W.); (W.N.)
| | - Jinping Yin
- NHC Key Laboratory of Radiobiology, School of Public Health, Jilin University, Changchun 130041, China;
| | - Kan He
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China; (W.W.); (W.N.)
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Wang Y, Zhang B, Feng L, Cao C, Fei X. A study of correlation of the dietary index for gut microbiota with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease based on 2007-2018 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Front Nutr 2025; 12:1573249. [PMID: 40276530 PMCID: PMC12018250 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2025.1573249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2025] [Accepted: 03/27/2025] [Indexed: 04/26/2025] Open
Abstract
Objective To explore the correlation of dietary index for gut microbiota (DI-GM) with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Methods Data of 6,711 participants were extracted from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) during 2007-2018. A weighted logistic regression analysis was employed for assessment of the correlation of DI-GM with NAFLD, and a restricted cubic spline (RCS) analysis was implemented to examine potential non-linear associations. Subgroup analyses were conducted to identify particularly susceptible groups. Additionally, the synergistic effects of different DI-GM components on NAFLD risk was assessed by weighted quantile sum (WQS) regression. Results The DI-GM exhibited statistically significant correlation with NAFLD [OR (95%CI):0.91 (0.85, 0.98), p = 0.015]. The results of the RCS analysis indicated a linear correlation of DI-GM and NAFLD (p = 0.810 for non-linearity). Further stratified analyses indicated that the negative correlation of DI-GM with NAFLD were significant and consistent for all subgroups. The results of WQS regression revealed that soybean (27%), refined grains (17%), coffee (16%), and red meat (9%) had the highest contribution weights to NAFLD. Conclusion As an important tool for assessment of the influences of diet on gut microbiota, DI-GM is negatively correlated with NAFLD risk factors. Soybean, refined grains, coffee, and red meat are key factors influencing NAFLD. The direct correlation of DI-GM with NAFLD shall be explored and the effectiveness of prevention and treatment of NAFLD shall be evaluated by improving DI-GM scores via dietary interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yinda Wang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Jiaxing University, Jiaxing, Zhejiang, China
| | - Binzhong Zhang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Jiaxing University, Jiaxing, Zhejiang, China
| | - Lianzhong Feng
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Jiaxing University, Jiaxing, Zhejiang, China
| | - Chenxi Cao
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Jiaxing University, Jiaxing, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xiaoliang Fei
- Department of Radiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Jiaxing University, Jiaxing, Zhejiang, China
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Wu D, Lin Q, Hou S, Cui X, Shou N, Yuan X, Xu W, Fu K, Wang Q, Shi Z. Gut Microbiota and Its Metabolite Taurine- β-Muricholic Acid Contribute to Antimony- and/or Copper-Induced Liver Inflammation. Int J Mol Sci 2025; 26:3332. [PMID: 40244173 PMCID: PMC11989503 DOI: 10.3390/ijms26073332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2025] [Revised: 03/18/2025] [Accepted: 03/20/2025] [Indexed: 04/18/2025] Open
Abstract
Antimony and copper can contaminate vegetables and enter the human body through the digestive tract, inducing severe and extensive biotoxicity. However, the role of bile acids (BAs) in the pathogenesis of liver inflammation by antimony or copper has not been elucidated. Our results indicated that antimony and/or copper induced liver inflammation, causing the disruption of gut microbiota, with the down-regulation of probiotics and up-regulation of harmful bacteria closely correlated to liver inflammation. Targeted metabolomics of BAs showed that antimony and/or copper significantly up-regulated the levels of taurine-β-muricholic acid (T-β-MCA) in serum and liver, which was due to the reduction of Lactobacillus spp. A farnesoid X receptor (FXR) antagonist, T-β-MCA inhibited the FXR-SHP pathway in liver and FXR-FGF15 pathway in ileum, thereby promoting the transcription of cholesterol 7-alpha hydroxylase (CYP7A1) and increasing total bile acid concentrations, ultimately leading to liver inflammation. These findings provide new insights into the underlying mechanisms of antimony- and/or copper-induced liver inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Zunji Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Herbage Improvement and Grassland Agro-Ecosystems, Center for Grassland Microbiome, College of Pastoral Agriculture Science and Technology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China; (D.W.); (Q.L.); (S.H.); (X.C.); (N.S.); (X.Y.); (W.X.); (K.F.); (Q.W.)
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Gu P, Chen J, Xin J, Chen H, Zhang R, Chen D, Zhang Y, Shao S. Network pharmacology-based investigation of the pharmacological mechanisms of diosgenin in nonalcoholic steatohepatitis. Sci Rep 2025; 15:10351. [PMID: 40133701 PMCID: PMC11937522 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-025-95154-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2025] [Indexed: 03/27/2025] Open
Abstract
The prevalence of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is rising annually, posing health and economic challenges, with limited treatments available. Diosgenin, a natural steroidal compound found in various plants, holds potential as a therapeutic candidate. Recent studies have confirmed diosgenin's anti-inflammatory and metabolism-modulating properties. However, its therapeutic effects on NASH and the underlying mechanisms are still unclear. This study aims to explore diosgenin's protective effects and pharmacological mechanisms against NASH using network pharmacology, molecular docking, and experimental validation. We gathered potential targets of diosgenin and NASH from various databases to generate protein-protein interaction (PPI) networks. GO and KEGG pathway enrichment analyses identified key targets and mechanisms. Molecular docking confirmed the binding capacity between diosgenin and core target proteins. Additionally, a NASH cell model was developed to validate the pharmacological effects of diosgenin. Our investigation identified nine key targets (ALB, AKT1, TP53, VEGFA, MAPK3, EGFR, STAT3, CASP3, IGF1) that interact with diosgenin. Molecular docking indicated potential bindings interactions, while enrichment analyses revealed that diosgenin may enhance fatty acid metabolism via the PI3K-Akt pathway. Cellular experiments confirmed that diosgenin activates this pathway, reduces SCD1 expression, and decreases triglyceride and IL-6 levels. Our study elucidates that diosgenin may ameliorate triglyceride deposition and inflammation through the PI3K-Akt pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peiyuan Gu
- Key Laboratory of Endocrine Glucose and Lipids Metabolism and Brain Aging, Ministry of Education; Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Endocrine Metabolism and Aging, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Juan Chen
- Department of Endocrinology, Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Jingxin Xin
- Key Laboratory of Endocrine Glucose and Lipids Metabolism and Brain Aging, Ministry of Education; Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Endocrine Metabolism and Aging, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Huiqi Chen
- Key Laboratory of Endocrine Glucose and Lipids Metabolism and Brain Aging, Ministry of Education; Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Endocrine Metabolism and Aging, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Ran Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Endocrine Glucose and Lipids Metabolism and Brain Aging, Ministry of Education; Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Endocrine Metabolism and Aging, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Dan Chen
- Department of Electrocardiographic, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Yuhan Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Endocrine Glucose and Lipids Metabolism and Brain Aging, Ministry of Education; Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, China.
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Endocrine Metabolism and Aging, Jinan, Shandong, China.
| | - Shanshan Shao
- Key Laboratory of Endocrine Glucose and Lipids Metabolism and Brain Aging, Ministry of Education; Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, China.
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Endocrine Metabolism and Aging, Jinan, Shandong, China.
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Sun X, Wang C, Li S, Liu X, Li Y, Wang Y, Niu Y, Ren Z, Yang X, Yang X, Liu Y. Folic acid alleviates the negative effects of dexamethasone induced stress on production performance in Hyline Brown laying hens. ANIMAL NUTRITION (ZHONGGUO XU MU SHOU YI XUE HUI) 2025; 20:54-65. [PMID: 39949729 PMCID: PMC11821403 DOI: 10.1016/j.aninu.2024.11.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2024] [Revised: 10/24/2024] [Accepted: 11/28/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2025]
Abstract
Multiple stressors are believed to deteriorate production performance and cause substantial economic losses in commercial poultry farming. Folic acid (FA) is an antioxidant compound that can improve oocyte function and regulate gut microbiota composition. The current study was conducted to investigate the role of FA in alleviating stress and improving production performance. Sixty Hyline Brown laying hens at 21 weeks of age were randomly divided into three groups, with 10 replicates in each group and each replicate containing two chickens. Each group received basic diet and saline injection (Con group), basic diet with dexamethasone (DXM) injection (DXM group), or basic diet supplemented with FA (13 mg/kg in the premix) with DXM injection (FA group). The feeding trial lasted five weeks. Birds in the DXM and FA groups receiving subcutaneous DXM injections at a dosage of 4.50 mg/kg per day during the first seven days of the trial. Results showed that the levels of corticosterone, triglyceride, total cholesterol, and malondialdehyde in serum were significantly increased in the DXM group (P < 0.05), while the concentrations of FA and 5-methyltetrahydrofolate were decreased in the DXM group (P < 0.05). Laying hens in the DXM group had lower laying rates and egg quality, including egg weight, eggshell thickness, eggshell strength, albumen height, and Haugh units (P < 0.05). Conversely, FA alleviated these negative impacts. Through transcriptome analysis, a total of 247 and 151 differentially expressed genes were identified among the three groups, and 32 overlapped genes were further identified. Moreover, 44 and 59 differential metabolites were influenced by DXM and FA, respectively. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment from the transcriptome and metabolomics showed that the reduced production performance may be due to the disturbance of oocyte production, calcium metabolism, and oxidative stress. Analysis of 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequences revealed the differential microbial composition and potential functional changes among the different groups. LEfSe analysis showed that Mucispirillum and Nautella were the predominant bacteria in the DXM group, while Clostridium was the predominant bacteria in the FA group. Functional prediction demonstrated that stressors enhanced fatty acid biosynthesis, while betaine biosynthesis and retinol metabolism were elevated in the FA group. Dietary FA reversed the elevated levels of bile acids (BA), including cholic acid, taurodeoxycholic acid, and taurochenodeoxycholic acid (P < 0.05). The DXM group showed an overall decrease in short-chain fatty acids (SCFA), but FA restored the concentrations of acetic acid, propionic acid, and isobutyric acid (P < 0.05). In conclusion, this study reveals that dietary FA can alleviate the degradation of production performance caused by stress through improving circulating antioxidant capacity, maintaining intestinal microbiota homeostasis, and regulating SCFA and BA biosynthesis. Thus, highlighting the prominent role of gut microbe-host interactions in alleviating multi-stresses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi Sun
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Chaohui Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Sijing Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Xiaoying Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Yun Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Yumeng Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Yuxin Niu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Zhouzheng Ren
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Xin Yang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Xiaojun Yang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Yanli Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China
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Wan X, Ma J, Bai H, Hu X, Ma Y, Zhao M, Liu J, Duan Z. Drug Advances in NAFLD: Individual and Combination Treatment Strategies of Natural Products and Small-Synthetic-Molecule Drugs. Biomolecules 2025; 15:140. [PMID: 39858534 PMCID: PMC11764138 DOI: 10.3390/biom15010140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2024] [Revised: 01/07/2025] [Accepted: 01/11/2025] [Indexed: 01/27/2025] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has become the most common chronic liver disease and is closely associated with metabolic diseases such as obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), and metabolic syndrome. However, effective treatment strategies for NAFLD are still lacking. In recent years, progress has been made in understanding the pathogenesis of NAFLD, identifying multiple therapeutic targets and providing new directions for drug development. This review summarizes the recent advances in the treatment of NAFLD, focusing on the mechanisms of action of natural products, small-synthetic-molecule drugs, and combination therapy strategies. This review aims to provide new insights and strategies in treating NAFLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xing Wan
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116012, China; (X.W.); (H.B.); (M.Z.)
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116051, China
| | - Jingyuan Ma
- The First Clinical Medical College, Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shenyang 110033, China; (J.M.); (Y.M.)
| | - He Bai
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116012, China; (X.W.); (H.B.); (M.Z.)
| | - Xuyang Hu
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shenyang 110033, China;
| | - Yanna Ma
- The First Clinical Medical College, Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shenyang 110033, China; (J.M.); (Y.M.)
| | - Mingjian Zhao
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116012, China; (X.W.); (H.B.); (M.Z.)
| | - Jifeng Liu
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116012, China; (X.W.); (H.B.); (M.Z.)
| | - Zhijun Duan
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116012, China; (X.W.); (H.B.); (M.Z.)
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12
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Yin G, Liang H, Cheng Y, Chen S, Zhang X, Meng D, Yu W, Liu H, Song C, Zhang F. Diosgenin attenuates nonalcoholic fatty liver disease through mTOR-mediated inhibition of lipid accumulation and inflammation. Chem Biol Interact 2025; 405:111306. [PMID: 39536891 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2024.111306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2024] [Revised: 10/28/2024] [Accepted: 11/04/2024] [Indexed: 11/16/2024]
Abstract
Excessive hepatic lipid accumulation and inflammatory injury are significant pathological manifestations of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Our previous research discovered that diosgenin, a natural steroidal saponin derived from Chinese herbs, can reduce hepatic lipid accumulation and steatosis; however, the exact mechanism remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the protective mechanisms of diosgenin against NAFLD. We utilized network pharmacology and molecular docking approaches to identify the pathways through which diosgenin improves NAFLD. In high-fat diet (HFD)-fed rats, we measured biochemical markers in the serum and liver. Liver histopathology was assessed using HE and oil-red O staining. In free fatty acids (FFAs)-induced HepG2 cells, we employed the cell transfection overexpression method to verify the regulatory relationship of the identified pathways. The mechanisms in vitro and in vivo were examined using quantitative polymerase chain reaction and Western blot analyses. Bioinformatics analysis indicated that the mTOR-FASN/HIF-1α/RELA/VEGFA pathway may be the target pathway for diosgenin in alleviating NAFLD. Diosgenin inhibited hepatic lipid accumulation and pro-inflammatory cytokines in HFD-fed rats, and reduced intracellular lipid accumulation as well as TG, TC, IL-1β, and TNF-α levels in FFAs-induced HepG2 cells. Mechanistically, diosgenin downregulated the expression of p-mTOR, FASN, HIF-1α, RELA, and VEGFA, which are associated with lipid synthesis and inflammation. Overexpression of mTOR abolished the beneficial effects of diosgenin on lipid reduction and inflammation, as well as its inhibitory effects on the expression of FASN, HIF-1α, RELA, and VEGFA. In conclusion, diosgenin alleviates NAFLD through mTOR-mediated inhibition of lipid accumulation and inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guoliang Yin
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, 250011, China
| | - Hongyi Liang
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, 250011, China
| | - Yiran Cheng
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, 250011, China
| | - Suwen Chen
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, 250011, China
| | - Xin Zhang
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, 250011, China
| | - Decheng Meng
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, 250011, China
| | - Wenfei Yu
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, 250011, China
| | - Hongshuai Liu
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, 250011, China
| | - Chaoyuan Song
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, 250011, China; Department of Neurology, Zibo Central Hospital, Zibo, 255000, China.
| | - Fengxia Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, 250011, China.
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Shahrajabian MH, Sun W. Multidimensional Uses of Bitter Melon ( Momordica charantia L.) Considering the Important Functions of its Chemical Components. Curr Org Synth 2025; 22:516-530. [PMID: 40420786 DOI: 10.2174/0115701794285586240523101245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2024] [Revised: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/28/2025]
Abstract
Bitter melon (Momordica charantia L.) is a member of the Cucurbitaceae, which is also known as bitter squash, bitter gourd, karela, Goya melon and balsam pear. It is a rich source of different vitamins, potassium, zinc and other nutrients. The main pharmaceutical benefits of bitter melon are "antiinflammatory", "antioxidant activity", "antimicrobial characteristic", "anticancer activity", and "antihelmintic activity", "antidiabetic effects", "antiinflammation activity" and "treat skin conditions". Its fruit is the main part of the plant which has been used for medicinal and food purposes. The primary metabolites in bitter gourd are common sugars, chlorophyll and proteins while secondary metabolites are carotenoids, alkaloids, phenolics, curcubitane triterpenoids, saponins, etc. The present review aims to study and survey on the nearly up-to-date results and findings regarding the pharmaceutical advantages and health benefits of bitter melon in an organic life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamad Hesam Shahrajabian
- National Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, Biotechnology Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Wenli Sun
- National Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, Biotechnology Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
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14
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Hu B, Yang Y, Yao J, Lin G, He Q, Bo Z, Zhang Z, Li A, Wang Y, Chen G, Shan Y. Gut Microbiota as Mediator and Moderator Between Hepatitis B Virus and Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Prospective Study. Cancer Med 2024; 13:e70454. [PMID: 39702929 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.70454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2024] [Revised: 07/06/2024] [Accepted: 11/16/2024] [Indexed: 12/21/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The impact of gut microbiome on hepatitis B virus (HBV)-related hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is unclear. We aimed to evaluate the potential correlation between gut microbiome and HBV-related HCC and introduced novel machine learning (ML) signatures based on gut microbe to predict the risk of HCC. MATERIALS AND METHODS A total of 640 patients with chronic liver diseases or HCC were prospectively recruited between 2019 and 2022. Fecal samples were collected and subjected to 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression was applied to identify risk characteristics. Several ML methods were employed to construct gut microbe-based models and the predictive performance was evaluated. RESULTS A total of 571 patients were involved in the study, including 374 patients with HCC and 197 patients with chronic liver diseases. After the propensity score matching method, 147 pairs of participants were enrolled in the analysis. Bacteroidia and Bacteroidales were demonstrated to exert mediating effects between HBV and HCC, and the moderating effects varied across Bacilli, Lactobacillales, Erysipelotrichaceae, Actinomyces, and Roseburia. HBV, alpha-fetoprotein, alanine transaminase, triglyceride, and Child-Pugh were identified as independent risk factors for HCC occurrence. Seven ML-based HBV-gut microbe models were established to predict HCC, with AUCs ranging from 0.821 to 0.898 in the training set and 0.813-0.885 in the validation set. Furthermore, the merged clinical-HBV-gut microbe models exhibited a comparable performance to HBV-gut microbe models. CONCLUSIONS Gut microbes are important factors between HBV and HCC through its potential mediating and moderating effects, which can be used as valuable biomarkers for the pathogenesis of HBV-related HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bingren Hu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Hepato-Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yi Yang
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Jiangqiao Yao
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Ganglian Lin
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Qikuan He
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Zhiyuan Bo
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Zhewei Zhang
- The First Clinical College, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Anlvna Li
- The First Clinical College, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Yi Wang
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Gang Chen
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Hepato-Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Zhejiang-Germany Interdisciplinary Joint Laboratory of Hepatobiliary-Pancreatic Tumor and Bioengineering, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yunfeng Shan
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
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15
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Wu Q, Li P, Li X, Ma L, Chen K, Man S. Pueraria Extract Ameliorates Alcoholic Liver Disease via the Liver-Gut-Brain Axis: Focus on Restoring the Intestinal Barrier and Inhibiting Alcohol Metabolism. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2024; 72:24449-24462. [PMID: 39445550 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.4c05365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2024]
Abstract
Alcoholic liver disease (ALD) is one of the causes of hepatocellular carcinoma, accompanied by intestinal leakage and microbial changes. Pueraria has protective effects on liver injury. The aim of this study was to investigate the mechanism of pueraria in the treatment of ALD. UPLC-Q/TOF-MS was used to analyze the composition of the pueraria extract (PUE). Acute and chronic ALD models were established to evaluate the antialcoholic and hepatoprotective effects of PUE. As a result, PUE treatment reduced the serum levels of ALT, AST, TC, and TG and inflammatory factors and alleviated liver inflammation and drunk state. PUE decreased the gene expression of ADH1 and the serum level of acetaldehyde (ACH) to inhibit the generation of ACH from ethanol metabolism, increased the gene level of ALDH2 to accelerate the decomposition of ACH, and thereby alleviated liver inflammation and intestinal barrier damage. Meanwhile, 16 S rDNA revealed that PUE altered the microbiota composition, reduced the amount of Proteobacteria and Desulfobacterota, and thus inhibited the generation of lipopolysaccharide and its downstream-like TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB pathway. PUE also increased the abundance of Bacteroides, Ruminococcus, and Prevotella and producted short-chain fatty acids to protect the intestinal wall. Treatment with fecal microbiota transplantation further confirmed that PUE gut microbiota dependently alleviated ALD. Therefore, PUE regulated gut microbiota and inhibited ethanol metabolism to alleviate ALD through the liver-gut-brain axis. It has good prospects in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiong Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Safety, Key Laboratory of Industrial Microbiology, Ministry of Education, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Industry Microbiology, National and Local United Engineering Lab of Metabolic Control Fermentation Technology, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Food Nutrition/Safety and Medicinal Chemistry, College of Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science & Technology, Tianjin 300457, China
| | - Piaoran Li
- State Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Safety, Key Laboratory of Industrial Microbiology, Ministry of Education, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Industry Microbiology, National and Local United Engineering Lab of Metabolic Control Fermentation Technology, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Food Nutrition/Safety and Medicinal Chemistry, College of Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science & Technology, Tianjin 300457, China
| | - Xuejiao Li
- Luoyang Key Laboratory of Clinical Multiomics and Translational Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Rare Diseases, Endocrinology and Metabolism Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, and College of Clinical Medicine of Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471003, China
| | - Long Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Safety, Key Laboratory of Industrial Microbiology, Ministry of Education, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Industry Microbiology, National and Local United Engineering Lab of Metabolic Control Fermentation Technology, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Food Nutrition/Safety and Medicinal Chemistry, College of Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science & Technology, Tianjin 300457, China
| | - Kai Chen
- The Innovation Institute of Agricultural Technology, College of Life Science, Shangrao Normal University, Shangrao 334001, China
| | - Shuli Man
- State Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Safety, Key Laboratory of Industrial Microbiology, Ministry of Education, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Industry Microbiology, National and Local United Engineering Lab of Metabolic Control Fermentation Technology, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Food Nutrition/Safety and Medicinal Chemistry, College of Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science & Technology, Tianjin 300457, China
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16
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Sun B, Wang Y, Bai J, Li X, Ma L, Man S. Litchi Procyanidins Ameliorate DSS-Induced Colitis through Gut Microbiota-Dependent Regulation of Treg/Th17 Balance. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2024; 72:24823-24832. [PMID: 39315595 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.4c05577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/25/2024]
Abstract
Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a common chronic, relapsing inflammatory bowel condition. Procyanidins (PC) are known for their antiangiogenic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimetastatic properties. However, there is comparatively limited information on how PC interacts with UC. In this study, 5 mg/10 mL/kg body weight of PC was administered to mice with dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis mice. PC treatment prolonged the survival period of mice, ameliorated UC symptoms, reduced damage to the intestinal mucosal barrier, and increased the protein expression of ZO-1 and occludin in the DSS-treated mice. Importantly, PC treatment significantly reduced gene expression related to Th17 cell differentiation, including STAT3, SMAD3, TGF-β, and JAK1. The results of the flow cytometry analysis indicated significant increase in the number of Treg cells and a concomitant decrease in the proportion of Th17 cells in the colon following PC treatment. Additionally, PC increased the abundance of gut microbiota such as Bacteroidota, Oscillospiraceae, Muribaculaceae, and Desulfovibrionaceae, as well as the concentrations of acetate acid, propionate acid, and butyrate acid in the feces. PC also activated short-chain fatty acid receptors, such as G-protein coupled receptor 43 in the colon, which promoted the proliferation of Treg cells. The depletion of gut microbiota and subsequent transplantation of fecal microbiota demonstrated that PC's effects on gut microbiota were effective in improving UC and restoring intestinal Th17/Treg homeostasis in a microbiota-dependent manner. This suggests that PC could be a promising functional food for the prevention and treatment of UC in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benyue Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Safety, Key Laboratory of Industrial Microbiology, Ministry of Education, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Industry Microbiology, National and Local United Engineering Lab of Metabolic Control Fermentation Technology, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Food Nutrition/Safety and Medicinal Chemistry, College of Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science & Technology, Tianjin 300457, China
| | - Yunhui Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Safety, Key Laboratory of Industrial Microbiology, Ministry of Education, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Industry Microbiology, National and Local United Engineering Lab of Metabolic Control Fermentation Technology, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Food Nutrition/Safety and Medicinal Chemistry, College of Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science & Technology, Tianjin 300457, China
| | - Jingjing Bai
- State Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Safety, Key Laboratory of Industrial Microbiology, Ministry of Education, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Industry Microbiology, National and Local United Engineering Lab of Metabolic Control Fermentation Technology, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Food Nutrition/Safety and Medicinal Chemistry, College of Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science & Technology, Tianjin 300457, China
| | - Xuejiao Li
- Luoyang Key Laboratory of Clinical Multiomics and Translational Medicine, Key Laboratory of Hereditary Rare Diseases of Health Commission of Henan Province, Henan Key Laboratory of Rare Diseases, Endocrinology and Metabolism Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, and College of Clinical Medicine, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471003, China
| | - Long Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Safety, Key Laboratory of Industrial Microbiology, Ministry of Education, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Industry Microbiology, National and Local United Engineering Lab of Metabolic Control Fermentation Technology, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Food Nutrition/Safety and Medicinal Chemistry, College of Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science & Technology, Tianjin 300457, China
| | - Shuli Man
- State Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Safety, Key Laboratory of Industrial Microbiology, Ministry of Education, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Industry Microbiology, National and Local United Engineering Lab of Metabolic Control Fermentation Technology, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Food Nutrition/Safety and Medicinal Chemistry, College of Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science & Technology, Tianjin 300457, China
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17
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Huang Y, Chen H, Chen J, Wu Q, Zhang W, Li D, Lu Y, Chen Y. Yellow tea polysaccharides protect against non-alcoholic fatty liver disease via regulation of gut microbiota and bile acid metabolism in mice. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 133:155919. [PMID: 39153277 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2024.155919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2024] [Revised: 07/02/2024] [Accepted: 07/26/2024] [Indexed: 08/19/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a major clinical and global public health issue, with no specific pharmacological treatment available. Currently, there is a lack of approved drugs for the clinical treatment of NAFLD. Large-leaf yellow tea polysaccharides (YTP) is a natural biomacromolecule with excellent prebiotic properties and significant therapeutic effects on multiple metabolic diseases. However, the specific mechanisms by which YTP regulates NAFLD remain unclear. PURPOSE This study aims to explore the prebiotic effects of YTP and the potential mechanisms by which it inhibits hepatic cholesterol accumulation in NAFLD mice. METHODS The effects of YTP on lipid accumulation were evaluated in NAFLD mice through obesity trait analysis and bile acids (BAs) metabolism assessment. Additionally, fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) was performed, and high-throughput sequencing was employed to investigate the mechanisms underlying YTP's regulatory effects on gut microbiota and BA metabolism. RESULTS Our study demonstrated that YTP altered the constitution of colonic BA, particularly increasing the levels of conjugated BA and non-12OH BA, which suppressed ileum FXR receptors and hepatic BA reabsorption, facilitated BA synthesis, and fecal BA excretion. The modifications were characterized by a decrease in the levels of FXR, FGF15, FGFR4, and ASBT proteins, and an increase in the levels of Cyp7a1 and Cyp27a1 proteins. YTP might affect enterohepatic circulation and by the activated the hepatic FXR-SHP pathway. Meanwhile, YTP reshaped the intestinal microbiome structure by decreasing BSH-producing genera and increasing taurine metabolism genera. The correlation analysis implied that Muribaculaceae, Pseudomonas, acterium_coprostanoligenes_group, Clostridiales, Lachnospiraceae_NK4A136_group, Delftia, Dubosiella, and Romboutsia were strongly correlated with specific BA monomers. CONCLUSIONS YTP modulates bile salt hydrolase-related microbial genera to activate alternative bile acid synthesis pathways, thereby inhibiting NAFLD progression. These results suggest that YTP may serve as a potential probiotic formulation, offering a feasible dietary intervention for NAFLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuzhe Huang
- School of Life Sciences, Anhui University, Hefei, Anhui 230601, PR China; Department of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui 230012, PR China; Institute of Pharmaceutics, Anhui Academy of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui 230012, PR China; Key Laboratory for Ecological Engineering and Biotechnology of Anhui Province, Hefei 230601, PR China
| | - Hao Chen
- School of Life Sciences, Anhui University, Hefei, Anhui 230601, PR China; Key Laboratory for Ecological Engineering and Biotechnology of Anhui Province, Hefei 230601, PR China
| | - Jielin Chen
- School of Life Sciences, Anhui University, Hefei, Anhui 230601, PR China; Key Laboratory for Ecological Engineering and Biotechnology of Anhui Province, Hefei 230601, PR China
| | - Qingxi Wu
- School of Life Sciences, Anhui University, Hefei, Anhui 230601, PR China; Key Laboratory for Ecological Engineering and Biotechnology of Anhui Province, Hefei 230601, PR China
| | - Wenna Zhang
- School of Life Sciences, Anhui University, Hefei, Anhui 230601, PR China; Key Laboratory for Ecological Engineering and Biotechnology of Anhui Province, Hefei 230601, PR China
| | - Daxiang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Tea Plant Biology and Utilization, School of Tea & Food Science, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, Anhui 230036, PR China
| | - Yongming Lu
- School of Life Sciences, Anhui University, Hefei, Anhui 230601, PR China; Key Laboratory for Ecological Engineering and Biotechnology of Anhui Province, Hefei 230601, PR China
| | - Yan Chen
- School of Life Sciences, Anhui University, Hefei, Anhui 230601, PR China; Key Laboratory for Ecological Engineering and Biotechnology of Anhui Province, Hefei 230601, PR China.
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18
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Yu W, Yin G, Chen S, Zhang X, Meng D, Wang L, Liu H, Jiang W, Sun Y, Zhang F. Diosgenin attenuates metabolic-associated fatty liver disease through the hepatic NLRP3 inflammasome-dependent signaling pathway. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 138:112581. [PMID: 38944952 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.112581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2024] [Revised: 06/05/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024]
Abstract
Metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) is one of the most common liver diseases worldwide; however, its pathogenesis and treatment methods have not been perfected. NOD-like receptor thermal protein domain-associated protein 3 (NLRP3) is a promising therapeutic target for MAFLD. Diosgenin (DG) is a natural compound that was identified in a traditional Chinese herbal medicine, which has pharmacological effects, such as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, hepatoprotective, and hypolipidemic activities. In this study, we examined the effects and molecular mechanisms of DG on MAFLD in vitro and in vivo. We established a rat model by administering a high-fat diet (HFD). We also generated an in vitro MAFLD model by treating HepG2 cells with free fatty acids (FFAs). The results indicated that DG attenuated lipid accumulation and liver injury in both in vitro and in vivo models. DG downregulated the expression of NLRP3, apoptosis-associated speckle-like protein (ASC), cysteinyl aspartate specific proteinase-1 (caspase-1), gasdermin D (GSDMD), GSDMD-n, and interleukin-1β (IL-1β). In addition, we silenced and overexpressed NLRP3 in vitro to determine the effects of DG on antiMAFLD. Silencing NLRP3 enhanced the effect of DG on the treatment of MAFLD, whereas NLRP3 overexpression reversed its beneficial effects. Taken together, the results show that DG has a favorable effect on attenuating MAFLD through the hepatic NLRP3 inflammasome-dependent signaling pathway. DG represents a natural NLRP3 inhibitor for the MAFLD treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenfei Yu
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan 250013, People's Republic of China
| | - Guoliang Yin
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan 250013, People's Republic of China
| | - Suwen Chen
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan 250013, People's Republic of China
| | - Xin Zhang
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan 250013, People's Republic of China
| | - Decheng Meng
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan 250013, People's Republic of China
| | - Linya Wang
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan 250013, People's Republic of China
| | - Hongshuai Liu
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan 250013, People's Republic of China
| | - Wenying Jiang
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan 250013, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuqing Sun
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan 250013, People's Republic of China
| | - Fengxia Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan 250011, People's Republic of China.
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Luo Z, Zhou W, Xie T, Xu W, Shi C, Xiao Z, Si Y, Ma Y, Ren Q, Di L, Shan J. The role of botanical triterpenoids and steroids in bile acid metabolism, transport, and signaling: Pharmacological and toxicological implications. Acta Pharm Sin B 2024; 14:3385-3415. [PMID: 39220868 PMCID: PMC11365449 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2024.04.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2023] [Revised: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Bile acids (BAs) are synthesized by the host liver from cholesterol and are delivered to the intestine, where they undergo further metabolism by gut microbes and circulate between the liver and intestines through various transporters. They serve to emulsify dietary lipids and act as signaling molecules, regulating the host's metabolism and immune homeostasis through specific receptors. Therefore, disruptions in BA metabolism, transport, and signaling are closely associated with cholestasis, metabolic disorders, autoimmune diseases, and others. Botanical triterpenoids and steroids share structural similarities with BAs, and they have been found to modulate BA metabolism, transport, and signaling, potentially exerting pharmacological or toxicological effects. Here, we have updated the research progress on BA, with a particular emphasis on new-found microbial BAs. Additionally, the latest advancements in targeting BA metabolism and signaling for disease treatment are highlighted. Subsequently, the roles of botanical triterpenoids in BA metabolism, transport, and signaling are examined, analyzing their potential pharmacological, toxicological, or drug interaction effects through these mechanisms. Finally, a research paradigm is proposed that utilizes the gut microbiota as a link to interpret the role of these important natural products in BA signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zichen Luo
- Medical Metabolomics Center, Institute of Pediatrics, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Children’s Health and Chinese Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Wei Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Tong Xie
- Medical Metabolomics Center, Institute of Pediatrics, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Children’s Health and Chinese Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Weichen Xu
- Medical Metabolomics Center, Institute of Pediatrics, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Children’s Health and Chinese Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Chen Shi
- Medical Metabolomics Center, Institute of Pediatrics, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Children’s Health and Chinese Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Zihan Xiao
- Medical Metabolomics Center, Institute of Pediatrics, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Children’s Health and Chinese Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Yu Si
- Jiangsu CM Clinical Medicine Innovation Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproduction, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210001, China
| | - Yan Ma
- National Institute of Biological Sciences, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Qingling Ren
- Jiangsu CM Clinical Medicine Innovation Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproduction, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210001, China
| | - Liuqing Di
- Jiangsu Engineering Research Center for Efficient Delivery System of TCM, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Jinjun Shan
- Medical Metabolomics Center, Institute of Pediatrics, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Children’s Health and Chinese Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
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Man S, Cui Y, Shi D, Lv P, Ma L, Gao W. Formosanin C inhibits pulmonary metastasis by targeting stearyl CoA desaturase-1. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 129:155689. [PMID: 38728921 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2024.155689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2023] [Revised: 04/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cisplatin (DDP) as the first-line drug has been used in cancer therapy. However, side effects and drug resistance are the challenges of DDP. Disordered lipid metabolism is related to DDP resistance. STUDY DESIGN In this study, formosanin C (FC) as the main compound of Rhizoma Paridis saponins (RPS) inhibits pulmonary metastasis by targeting stearyl CoA desaturase-1. METHODS AND RESULTS RPS prolonged the survival period of mice, reduced pulmonary metastases and alleviated colon toxicity caused by DDP. FC as the main compound of RPS enhanced the anti-tumor and anti-metastatic effects of DDP. FC decreased the mRNA level of SCD1 and the content of lipid droplets (LDs) in lung cancer cells. Molecular dynamics and isothermal titration calorimetry verified the binding stability and spontaneously between FC and SCD1. SiSCD1 reduced the content of LDs in cell lines and increased mitochondria (mtROS), which was consistent with the results of FC treatment. The combination group decreased DNA repair associated protein as well as DDP resistance markers such as ERCC1 and 53bp1, and increased DNA damage marker like γH2AX, which indirectly confirmed the occurrence of mtROS. In addition, FC combination with DDP also affected epithelial-mesenchymal transition-related protein like VIM and CDH1 in vivo experiments, and thereby inhibited pulmonary metastasis. CONCLUSION Our research indicated that the FC as the main compound of RPS targeted the CY2 domain of SCD1, inhibited lipid metabolism in mice, and thereby suppressed cancer metastases. This provided support for use of FC to treat cancer based on lipid metabolism pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuli Man
- State Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Safety, Key Laboratory of Industrial Microbiology, Ministry of Education, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Industry Microbiology, National and Local United Engineering Lab of Metabolic Control Fermentation Technology, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Food Nutrition/Safety and Medicinal Chemistry, College of Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science & Technology, Tianjin, 300457, China.
| | - Yingfang Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Safety, Key Laboratory of Industrial Microbiology, Ministry of Education, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Industry Microbiology, National and Local United Engineering Lab of Metabolic Control Fermentation Technology, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Food Nutrition/Safety and Medicinal Chemistry, College of Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science & Technology, Tianjin, 300457, China
| | - Dandan Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Safety, Key Laboratory of Industrial Microbiology, Ministry of Education, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Industry Microbiology, National and Local United Engineering Lab of Metabolic Control Fermentation Technology, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Food Nutrition/Safety and Medicinal Chemistry, College of Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science & Technology, Tianjin, 300457, China
| | - Panpan Lv
- State Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Safety, Key Laboratory of Industrial Microbiology, Ministry of Education, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Industry Microbiology, National and Local United Engineering Lab of Metabolic Control Fermentation Technology, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Food Nutrition/Safety and Medicinal Chemistry, College of Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science & Technology, Tianjin, 300457, China
| | - Long Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Safety, Key Laboratory of Industrial Microbiology, Ministry of Education, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Industry Microbiology, National and Local United Engineering Lab of Metabolic Control Fermentation Technology, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Food Nutrition/Safety and Medicinal Chemistry, College of Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science & Technology, Tianjin, 300457, China
| | - Wenyuan Gao
- School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Faculty of Medicine, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300072, China.
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Cao S, Liu M, Han Y, Li S, Zhu X, Li D, Shi Y, Liu B. Effects of Saponins on Lipid Metabolism: The Gut-Liver Axis Plays a Key Role. Nutrients 2024; 16:1514. [PMID: 38794751 PMCID: PMC11124185 DOI: 10.3390/nu16101514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2024] [Revised: 04/27/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Unhealthy lifestyles (high-fat diet, smoking, alcohol consumption, too little exercise, etc.) in the current society are prone to cause lipid metabolism disorders affecting the health of the organism and inducing the occurrence of diseases. Saponins, as biologically active substances present in plants, have lipid-lowering, inflammation-reducing, and anti-atherosclerotic effects. Saponins are thought to be involved in the regulation of lipid metabolism in the body; it suppresses the appetite and, thus, reduces energy intake by modulating pro-opiomelanocortin/Cocaine amphetamine regulated transcript (POMC/CART) neurons and neuropeptide Y/agouti-related peptide (NPY/AGRP) neurons in the hypothalamus, the appetite control center. Saponins directly activate the AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) signaling pathway and related transcriptional regulators such as peroxisome-proliferator-activated-receptors (PPAR), CCAAT/enhancer-binding proteins (C/EBP), and sterol-regulatory element binding proteins (SREBP) increase fatty acid oxidation and inhibit lipid synthesis. It also modulates gut-liver interactions to improve lipid metabolism by regulating gut microbes and their metabolites and derivatives-short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), bile acids (BAs), trimethylamine (TMA), lipopolysaccharide (LPS), et al. This paper reviews the positive effects of different saponins on lipid metabolism disorders, suggesting that the gut-liver axis plays a crucial role in improving lipid metabolism processes and may be used as a therapeutic target to provide new strategies for treating lipid metabolism disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shixi Cao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, China; (S.C.); (M.L.); (Y.H.); (S.L.); (X.Z.); (D.L.)
| | - Mengqi Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, China; (S.C.); (M.L.); (Y.H.); (S.L.); (X.Z.); (D.L.)
| | - Yao Han
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, China; (S.C.); (M.L.); (Y.H.); (S.L.); (X.Z.); (D.L.)
| | - Shouren Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, China; (S.C.); (M.L.); (Y.H.); (S.L.); (X.Z.); (D.L.)
| | - Xiaoyan Zhu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, China; (S.C.); (M.L.); (Y.H.); (S.L.); (X.Z.); (D.L.)
- Henan Provincial Key Laboratory of Forage Resource Innovation and Utilization, Zhengzhou 450046, China
- Henan Forage Engineering Technology Research Center, Zhengzhou 450046, China
| | - Defeng Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, China; (S.C.); (M.L.); (Y.H.); (S.L.); (X.Z.); (D.L.)
- Henan Provincial Key Laboratory of Forage Resource Innovation and Utilization, Zhengzhou 450046, China
- Henan Forage Engineering Technology Research Center, Zhengzhou 450046, China
| | - Yinghua Shi
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, China; (S.C.); (M.L.); (Y.H.); (S.L.); (X.Z.); (D.L.)
- Henan Provincial Key Laboratory of Forage Resource Innovation and Utilization, Zhengzhou 450046, China
- Henan Forage Engineering Technology Research Center, Zhengzhou 450046, China
| | - Boshuai Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, China; (S.C.); (M.L.); (Y.H.); (S.L.); (X.Z.); (D.L.)
- Henan Provincial Key Laboratory of Forage Resource Innovation and Utilization, Zhengzhou 450046, China
- Henan Forage Engineering Technology Research Center, Zhengzhou 450046, China
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Cheng Z, Wei W, Chen Y, Xu A, Wang Y, Li B. Construction of nanoparticles from blueberry anthocyanins-lecithin/gum Arabic improves lipid droplet accumulation and gut microbiota disturbance in HFD-induced obese mice. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 264:130595. [PMID: 38437939 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.130595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024]
Abstract
The digestive instability of anthocyanins (ACNs) limits their application in food nutrition, especially precision nutrition. Blueberry ACNs-loaded nanoparticles (Lipo/GA-ACNs NPs) were prepared using gum arabic (GA) as the delivery carrier and liposomal vesicles (Lipo) prepared from soy lecithin as the targeting scaffold. The average particle size of the NPs was 99.4 nm, and the polydispersion index (PDI) was 0.46. The results showed that the presence of the Lipo-GA matrix enhanced the NPs' in vitro stability and antioxidant activity. In addition, the in vitro biocompatibility, uptake ability, lipid-lowering activity, and free-radical scavenging ability were improved to a certain extent. In a high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obese mouse model, oral administration of ACNs-LNP (LNP, liver-targeted nanoparticle) showed better effects on body weight, liver injury, and lipid droplet accumulation in the liver than ACNs. In addition, ACNs-LNP also played a role in regulating HFD-induced gut microbiota imbalance. These results provide a promising ACNs delivery strategy with the potential to be developed into a functional food that targets the liver to prevent fatty liver.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhen Cheng
- College of Food Science, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110866, China; Key Laboratory of Healthy Food Nutrition and Innovative Manufacturing of Liaoning Province, Shenyang, Liaoning, 110866, China
| | - Wenwen Wei
- College of Food Science, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110866, China; Key Laboratory of Healthy Food Nutrition and Innovative Manufacturing of Liaoning Province, Shenyang, Liaoning, 110866, China
| | - Yi Chen
- Nanchang Univ, State Key Lab Food Sci & Technol, Nanchang, China
| | - Aihua Xu
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Yuehua Wang
- College of Food Science, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110866, China; Key Laboratory of Healthy Food Nutrition and Innovative Manufacturing of Liaoning Province, Shenyang, Liaoning, 110866, China.
| | - Bin Li
- College of Food Science, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110866, China; Key Laboratory of Healthy Food Nutrition and Innovative Manufacturing of Liaoning Province, Shenyang, Liaoning, 110866, China.
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Ghosian-Moghaddam MH, Mohseni-Moghaddam P, Roghani M. Therapeutic Potential of Diosgenin in Amelioration of Carbon Tetrachloride-Induced Murine Liver Injury. Drug Res (Stuttg) 2024; 74:156-163. [PMID: 38458224 DOI: 10.1055/a-2263-1329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/10/2024]
Abstract
Diosgenin is a sapogenin with antidiabetic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. The current study investigated whether diosgenin could ameliorate carbon tetrachloride (CCL4)-induced liver injury. To cause liver injury, CCL4 was injected intraperitoneally twice a week for 8 weeks. Daily oral administration of diosgenin at doses of 20, 40, and 80 mg/kg was started one day before CCL4 injection and continued for 8 weeks. Finally, serum levels of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and also albumin were assessed. Catalase and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities in addition to glutathione (GSH) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were also quantified in the liver homogenate and routine histological evaluation was also conducted. Elevated serum levels of liver enzymes and decreased serum level of albumin caused by CCL4 were significantly restored following diosgenin administration at doses of 40 and 80 mg/kg. Long-term administration of CCL4 increased inflammatory and apoptotic factors such as IL-1β, caspase 3, TNF-α, and IL-6 and decreased SOD and catalase activities as well as GSH level in liver homogenates; while MDA level was increased. Treatment with diosgenin increased SOD and catalase activities and GSH levels in the liver of injured animals. In addition, liver MDA, IL-1β, caspase 3, TNF-α, and IL-6 level or activity decreased by diosgenin treatment. Additionally, diosgenin aptly prevented aberrant liver histological changes. According to obtained results, diosgenin can dose-dependently diminish CCl4-induced liver functional deficits and histological changes in a dose-dependent manner, possibly due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammation properties, and its beneficial effect is comparable to known hepatoprotective agent silymarin.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Parvaneh Mohseni-Moghaddam
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehrdad Roghani
- Neurophysiology Research Center, Shahed University, Tehran, Iran
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Yan M, Zhao Y, Man S, Dai Y, Ma L, Gao W. Diosgenin as a substitute for cholesterol alleviates NAFLD by affecting CYP7A1 and NPC1L1-related pathway. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 125:155299. [PMID: 38301301 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2023.155299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Revised: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/17/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) rapidly becomes the leading cause of end-stage liver disease or liver transplantation. Nowadays, there has no approved drug for NAFLD treatment. Diosgenin as the structural analogue of cholesterol attenuates hypercholesterolemia by inhibiting cholesterol metabolism, which is an important pathogenesis in NAFLD progression. However, there has been no few report concerning its effects on NAFLD so far. METHODS Using a high-fat diet & 10% fructose-feeding mice, we evaluated the anti-NAFLD effects of diosgenin. Transcriptome sequencing, LC/MS analysis, molecular docking simulation, molecular dynamics simulations and Luci fluorescent reporter gene analysis were used to evaluate pathways related to cholesterol metabolism. RESULTS Diosgenin treatment ameliorated hepatic dysfunction and inhibited NAFLD formation including lipid accumulation, inflammation aggregation and fibrosis formation through regulating cholesterol metabolism. For the first time, diosgenin was structurally similar to cholesterol, down-regulated expression of CYP7A1 and regulated cholesterol metabolism in the liver (p < 0.01) and further affecting bile acids like CDCA, CA and TCA in the liver and feces. Besides, diosgenin decreased expression of NPC1L1 and suppressed cholesterol transport (p < 0.05). Molecular docking and molecular dynamics further proved that diosgenin was more strongly bound to CYP7A1. Luci fluorescent reporter gene analysis revealed that diosgenin concentration-dependently inhibited the enzymes activity of CYP7A1. CONCLUSION Our findings demonstrated that diosgenin was identified as a specific regulator of cholesterol metabolism, which pave way for the design of novel clinical therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengyao Yan
- State Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Safety, Key Laboratory of Industrial Microbiology, Ministry of Education, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Industry Microbiology, National and Local United Engineering Lab of Metabolic Control Fermentation Technology, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Food Nutrition/Safety and Medicinal Chemistry, College of Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science & Technology, Tianjin, 300457, China.
| | - Yixin Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Safety, Key Laboratory of Industrial Microbiology, Ministry of Education, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Industry Microbiology, National and Local United Engineering Lab of Metabolic Control Fermentation Technology, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Food Nutrition/Safety and Medicinal Chemistry, College of Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science & Technology, Tianjin, 300457, China
| | - Shuli Man
- State Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Safety, Key Laboratory of Industrial Microbiology, Ministry of Education, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Industry Microbiology, National and Local United Engineering Lab of Metabolic Control Fermentation Technology, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Food Nutrition/Safety and Medicinal Chemistry, College of Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science & Technology, Tianjin, 300457, China.
| | - Yujie Dai
- State Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Safety, Key Laboratory of Industrial Microbiology, Ministry of Education, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Industry Microbiology, National and Local United Engineering Lab of Metabolic Control Fermentation Technology, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Food Nutrition/Safety and Medicinal Chemistry, College of Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science & Technology, Tianjin, 300457, China
| | - Long Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Safety, Key Laboratory of Industrial Microbiology, Ministry of Education, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Industry Microbiology, National and Local United Engineering Lab of Metabolic Control Fermentation Technology, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Food Nutrition/Safety and Medicinal Chemistry, College of Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science & Technology, Tianjin, 300457, China
| | - Wenyuan Gao
- Tianjin Key Laboratory for Modern Drug Delivery & High-Efficiency, School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Tianjin University, Weijin Road, Tianjin 300072, China
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