A systems-pharmacology analysis of herbal medicines used in health improvement treatment: predicting potential new drugs and targets

Identification of the Pharmacological Components and Its Targets of Sanghuang by Integration of Nontarget Metabolomics and Network Pharmacology Analysis

The objective of this study is to comprehensively to identify the core pharmacological components and their respective targets of three medicinal fungi Sanghuangs including Sanghuangporus vaninii (SV), Sanghuangporus lonicericola (SL), and Inonotus hispidus (IH). Metabolomics analysis indicated that a total of 495 and 660 differential metabolites were obtained in mycelium and fermentation broth samples among three Sanghuangs, respectively. The network pharmacology analysis showed that 6-[1]-ladderane hexanol, R-nostrenol, candidone, ellagic acid, and quercetin were the overlapping active ingredients of three Sanghuang species for diabetes mellitus, immune system disease, and neoplasm. Certonardosterol A, dalamid, and ethylene brassylate are unique active ingredients in SV, and certonardosterol K, kaempferide, and esculetin are unique active ingredients in SL. Asbestinine, neoandrographolide, isosakuranetin, and daucosterin are unique active ingredients in IH. Accordingly, the common core targets of active ingredients of the three Sanghuangs were ESR1, PIK3CA, and LYN. PRKCA, EGFR, and STAT3 were the unique targets of SV, SL, and IH, respectively. The primary active components and their respective targets, in addition to the component-target interaction of Sanghuangs that have been identified in the present study, provide a foundation for future research on the prevention and treatment of disease using Sanghuangs.

Traditional, complementary, and integrative medicine and artificial intelligence: Novel opportunities in healthcare

The convergence of traditional, complementary, and integrative medicine (TCIM) with artificial intelligence (AI) is a promising frontier in healthcare. TCIM is a patient-centric approach that combines conventional medicine with complementary therapies, emphasizing holistic well-being. AI can revolutionize healthcare through data-driven decision-making and personalized treatment plans. This article explores how AI technologies can complement and enhance TCIM, aligning with the shared objectives of researchers from both fields in improving patient outcomes, enhancing care quality, and promoting holistic wellness. This integration of TCIM and AI introduces exciting opportunities but also noteworthy challenges. AI may augment TCIM by assisting in early disease detection, providing personalized treatment plans, predicting health trends, and enhancing patient engagement. Challenges at the intersection of AI and TCIM include data privacy and security, regulatory complexities, maintaining the human touch in patient-provider relationships, and mitigating bias in AI algorithms. Patients' trust, informed consent, and legal accountability are all essential considerations. Future directions in AI-enhanced TCIM include advanced personalized medicine, understanding the efficacy of herbal remedies, and studying patient-provider interactions. Research on bias mitigation, patient acceptance, and trust in AI-driven TCIM healthcare is crucial. In this article, we outlined that the merging of TCIM and AI holds great promise in enhancing healthcare delivery, personalizing treatment plans, preventive care, and patient engagement. Addressing challenges and fostering collaboration between AI experts, TCIM practitioners, and policymakers, however, is vital to harnessing the full potential of this integration.

Adverse reactions of Niaoduqing granules: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The therapeutic benefits of Niaoduqing granules (NDQG) in kidney diseases has been comprehensively studied, but its adverse drug reactions remain unexplored.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the safety of NDQG in kidney disease treatment.

METHODS

The literature was searched in Embase, Medline via PubMed, Cochrane Library database, Wanfang database, Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure, SinoMed, and Chinese VIP Database from inception to January 15, 2022, for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and observational studies. The ClinicalTrials.gov website was searched for ongoing trials. The frequency and characteristics of adverse drug reactions (ADRs) were the primary and secondary outcomes, respectively. Subgroup analysis were conducted to explore the effects of clinical trial types, different kidney diseases, drug combinations and dosage on the safety of NDQG.

RESULTS

This review included 132 trials comprising 115 RCTs and 17 cohort studies. Additionally, 118 studies reported ADR rates with complete data, including 10381 participants. Regarding ADR frequency, no significant difference was observed between NDQG (7.26%) and control (8.39%) groups (RR = 0.890, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.788-1.007); with no heterogeneity among the studies (I² = 0.0%, P = 0.958). ADR frequency in patients with chronic kidney disease (65 trials, n = 5823) was significantly lower in the NDQG treatment group than in the control group (RR = 0.810, 95% CI: 0.67-0.969, I² = 0.0%, P = 0.993); however, for patients with diabetic nephropathy there was no difference between both groups (26 trials, n = 2166, RR = 1.077, 95% CI: 0.802-1.446, I² = 0.0%, P = 0.611). Similarly, the incidence of ADR in patients on dialysis and patients with pyelonephritis and nephrotic syndrome was the same for both groups, with 95% CI overlapping the line. For different interventions, including NDQG monotherapy or its combination with other commonly used drugs (including angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers, statin drugs, and compound α-keto acid) or dialysis, the incidence of ADR showed no significant difference between the experimental and control arms. The ADR in the NDQG group primarily affected the gastrointestinal system (64.74%), central and peripheral nervous system (9.07%), whole body (5.79%), and skin and appendages (4.53%). The most common clinical manifestations were diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting.

CONCLUSIONS

Our meta-analysis showed that compared with supportive therapy, the incidence of ADR was similar when NDQG was added. However, current evidence is not definitive and more well-designed and conducted RCTs are warranted to definitively establish the reliable evidence.

PROTOCOL REGISTRATION NUMBER

PROSPERO CRD 42018104227.

Molecular Mechanisms Underlying Qi-Invigorating Effects in Traditional Medicine: Network Pharmacology-Based Study on the Unique Functions of Qi-Invigorating Herb Group

Qi-invigorating herbs (QIHs) are a group of herbs that invigorate Qi, the most vital force for maintaining the physiological functions of the human body in traditional medicine. However, the mechanism underlying the Qi-invigorating effects remains unclear. This study aimed to elucidate the unique mechanisms of QIHs based on unique compounds, using a network pharmacology approach. QIHs and their compounds were identified using existing literature and the TCMSP database, respectively. Subsequently, a method was proposed to screen for unique compounds that are common in QIHs but rare in other traditional herbs. Unique compounds’ targets were predicted using the TCMSP, BATMAN-TCM, and SwissTargetPrediction databases. Finally, enriched GO and KEGG pathways were obtained using DAVID to uncover the biomolecular functions and mechanisms. Thirteen unique compounds, mainly including amino acids and vitamins that participate in energy metabolism and improve Qi deficiency syndrome, were identified among the eight QIHs. GO and KEGG pathway analyses revealed that these compounds commonly participate in neuroactive ligand–receptor interaction and the metabolism of amino acids, and are related to the components of mitochondria and neuronal cells. Our results appropriately reflect the characteristics of traditional Qi-invigorating effects; therefore, this study facilitates the scientific interpretation of Qi functions and provides evidence regarding the treatment effectiveness of QIHs.

The Use of Artificial Intelligence in Complementary and Alternative Medicine: A Systematic Scoping Review

Background: The development of artificial intelligence (AI) in the medical field has been growing rapidly. As AI models have been introduced in complementary and alternative medicine (CAM), a systematized review must be performed to understand its current status. Objective: To categorize and seek the current usage of AI in CAM. Method: A systematic scoping review was conducted based on the method proposed by the Joanna Briggs Institute. The three databases, PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library, were used to find studies regarding AI and CAM. Only English studies from 2000 were included. Studies without mentioning either AI techniques or CAM modalities were excluded along with the non-peer-reviewed studies. A broad-range search strategy was applied to locate all relevant studies. Results: A total of 32 studies were identified, and three main categories were revealed: 1) acupuncture treatment, 2) tongue and lip diagnoses, and 3) herbal medicine. Other CAM modalities were music therapy, meditation, pulse diagnosis, and TCM syndromes. The majority of the studies utilized AI models to predict certain patterns and find reliable computerized models to assist physicians. Conclusion: Although the results from this review have shown the potential use of AI models in CAM, future research ought to focus on verifying and validating the models by performing a large-scale clinical trial to better promote AI in CAM in the era of digital health.

Yi-Qi-Jian-Pi formula modulates the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway to attenuate acute-on-chronic liver failure by suppressing hypoxic injury and apoptosis in vivo and in vitro

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) is a key complication of chronic hepatitis, with a relatively high mortality rate and limited treatment options, which dramatically threatens human lives. Yi-Qi-Jian-Pi formula (YQJPF) is a herbal compound commonly used to treat liver failure.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The purpose of this research is to discuss the potential molecular biological effect and mechanism of YQJPF in ACLF.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this study, we created a rat model of ACLF by CCl₄-, LPS- and D-Galactosamine (D-Gal) and an in vitro model of LPS-induced hepatocyte damage. The specific components of YQJPF and potential mechanism were explored based on bioinformatics analyses. Furthermore, we verified the effect of YQJPF on ACLF using immunohistochemistry, RT-qPCR, western blotting, and flow cytometry.

RESULTS

Our research demonstrated that, after YQJPF treatment, hepatocyte injury in rats was relieved. Bioinformatics analysis showed that PI3K/AKT, HIF-1, mitochondrial apoptosis pathways played prominent roles. YQJPF promoted HIF-1α protein expression and exerted protective effects against hypoxic injury, simultaneously reducing mitochondrial ROS production, suppressing hepatocyte apoptosis. Furthermore, we showed that YQJPF accelerates PI3K/AKT pathway activation, a known broad-spectrum inhibitor of PI3K. LY294002, which was used for reverse verification, suppressed the effect of YQJPF on hypoxic injury and ROS-mediated hepatocyte apoptosis.

CONCLUSIONS

YQJPF ameliorates liver injury by suppressing hypoxic injury and ROS-mediated hepatocyte apoptosis by modulating the PI3K/AKT pathway.

An investigation into an evening intake of a saffron extract (affron®) on sleep quality, cortisol, and melatonin concentrations in adults with poor sleep: a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multi-dose study

OBJECTIVE/BACKGROUND

To validate and extend on previous positive findings of the sleep-enhancing effects of saffron supplementation in adults with unsatisfactory sleep.

PATIENTS/METHODS

In this 28-day, 3-arm, parallel-group, double-blind, randomised controlled trial, 120 adults with unsatisfactory sleep received either a placebo, 14 mg, or 28 mg of a standardised saffron extract (affron®), 1 h before bed. Outcome measures included the Pittsburgh Sleep Diary (with sleep quality ratings as the primary outcome measure), Insomnia Symptom Questionnaire (ISQ), Profile of Mood States, Restorative Sleep Questionnaire, the Functional Outcomes of Sleep Questionnaire, and evening salivary melatonin and cortisol concentrations.

RESULTS

Compared to the placebo, saffron supplementation was associated with greater improvements in sleep quality ratings (primary outcome measure), mood ratings after awakening, the ISQ total score, and ISQ-insomnia classifications. However, there were no significant differences between the saffron and placebo groups in other questionnaire and sleep diary outcome measures. Sleep improvements were similar for the two administered saffron doses. Compared to the placebo, saffron supplementation was associated with increases in evening melatonin concentrations but did not affect evening cortisol. Saffron supplementation was well-tolerated with no reported significant adverse effects.

CONCLUSIONS

These results provide further validation of the sleep-enhancing effects of 28-days of saffron supplementation in adults with unsatisfactory sleep. Further research is required to examine the efficacy and safety of saffron supplementation using objective sleep measures, over a longer duration, in people presenting with a diagnosed insomnia disorder and other psychogenic and demographic characteristics, and into its potential sleep-enhancing mechanisms of action.

Angelica Dahurica Regulated the Polarization of Macrophages and Accelerated Wound Healing in Diabetes: A Network Pharmacology Study and In Vivo Experimental Validation

Diabetic wounds exhibit retarded and partial healing processes. Therefore, patients are exposed to an elevated risk of infection. It has been verified that Angelica dahurica (Hoffm.) Benth. and Hook. f. ex Franch. and Sav (A. dahurica) is conducive for wound healing. However, the pharmacological mechanisms of A. dahurica are yet to be established. The present study uses network pharmacology and in vivo experimental validation to investigate the underlying process that makes A. dahurica conducive for faster wound healing in diabetes patients. 54 potential targets in A. dahurica that act on wound healing were identified through network pharmacology assays, such as signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3), JUN, interleukin-1β (IL-1β), tumor necrosis factor (TNF), and prostaglandin G/H synthase 2 (PTGS2). Furthermore, in vivo validation showed that A. dahurica accelerated wound healing through anti-inflammatory effects. More specifically, it regulates the polarization of M1 and M2 subtypes of macrophages. A. dahurica exerted a curative effect on diabetic wound healing by regulating the inflammation. Hence, pharmacologic network analysis combined with in vivo validation elucidated the probable effects and underlying mechanisms of A. dahurica's therapeutic effect on diabetic wound healing.

A Network Pharmacology Study to Uncover the Multiple Molecular Mechanism of the Chinese Patent Medicine Toujiequwen Granules in the Treatment of Corona Virus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)

Since the outbreak of the novel corona virus disease 2019 (COVID-19) at the end of 2019, specific antiviral drugs have been lacking. A Chinese patent medicine Toujiequwen granules has been promoted in the treatment of COVID-19. The present study was designed to reveal the molecular mechanism of Toujiequwen granules against COVID-19. A network pharmacological method was applied to screen the main active ingredients of Toujiequwen granules. Network analysis of 149 active ingredients and 330 drug targets showed the most active ingredient interacting with many drug targets is quercetin. Drug targets most affected by the active ingredients were PTGS2, PTGS1, and DPP4. Drug target disease enrichment analysis showed drug targets were significantly enriched in cardiovascular diseases and digestive tract diseases. An “active ingredient-target-disease” network showed that 57 active ingredients from Toujiequwen granules interacted with 15 key targets of COVID-19. There were 53 ingredients that could act on DPP4, suggesting that DPP4 may become a potential new key target for the treatment of COVID-19. GO analysis results showed that key targets were mainly enriched in the cellular response to lipopolysaccharide, cytokine activity and other functions. KEGG analysis showed they were mainly concentrated in viral protein interaction with cytokine and cytokine receptors and endocrine resistance pathway. The evidence suggests that Toujiequwen granules might play an effective role by improving the symptoms of underlying diseases in patients with COVID-19 and multi-target interventions against multiple signaling pathways related to the pathogenesis of COVID-19.

Ex vivo and in vivo chemoprotective activity and potential mechanism of Martynoside against 5-fluorouracil-induced bone marrow cytotoxicity

Martynoside (MAR) is a bioactive glycoside of Rehmannia glutinosa, a traditional Chinese herb frequently prescribed for treating chemotherapy-induced pancytopenia. Despite its clinical usage in China for thousands of years, the mechanism of MAR's hematopoietic activity and its impact on chemotherapy-induced antitumor activity are still unclear. Here, we showed that MAR protected ex vivo bone marrow cells from 5-fluorouracil (5-FU)-induced cell death and inflammation response by down-regulating the TNF signaling pathway, in which II1b was the most regulatory gene. Besides, using mouse models with melanoma and colon cancer, we further demonstrated that MAR had protective effects against 5-FU-induced myelosuppression in mice without compromising its antitumor activity. Our results showed that MAR increased the number of bone marrow nucleated cells (BMNCs) and the percentage of leukocyte and granulocytic populations in 5-FU-induced myelosuppressive mice, accompanied by an increase in numbers of circulating white blood cells and platelets. The transcriptome profile of BMNCs further showed that the mode of action of MAR might be associated with the increased survival of BMNCs and the improvement of the bone marrow microenvironment. In summary, we revealed the potential molecular mechanism of MAR to counteract 5-FU-induced bone marrow cytotoxicity both ex vivo and in vivo, and highlighted its potential clinical usage in cancer patients experiencing chemotherapy-induced multi-lineage myelosuppression.

Uncovering the pharmacological mechanism of the effects of the Banxia-Xiakucao Chinese Herb Pair on sleep disorder by a systems pharmacology approach

Sleep disorder (SD) has a high incidence and seriously affects quality of life, mental health and even the manifestation of physical diseases. The combination of Pinellia ternata (Chinese name: banxia) and Prunella vulgaris (Chinese name: xiakucao), known as the Banxia-Xiakucao Chinese herb pair (BXHP), is a proven Chinese herbal medicine that has been used to treat SD for thousands of years due to its significant clinical effects. However, its active pharmacological components and sedative-hypnotic mechanisms have not been fully elucidated. Thus, the present study used a systematic pharmacological approach to develop pharmacokinetic screens and target predictions via construction of a protein-protein interaction network and annotation database for SD-related and putative BXHP-related targets. Visualization, screening and integrated discovery enrichment analyses were conducted. The BXHP chemical database contains 166 compounds between the two herbal ingredients, and of these, 22 potential active molecules were screened by pharmacokinetic evaluation. The targets of 114 of the active molecules were predicted, and 34 were selected for further analysis. Finally, gene ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway analyses suggested that BXHP can reduce inflammatory responses. and mediate immune-related and central nervous system neurotransmitters via regulation of multiple targets and pathways. The use of a systematic pharmacology-based approach in the present study further elucidated the mechanisms of action underlying BXHP for the treatment of SD from a holistic perspective and sheds light on the systemic mechanisms of action of Chinese herbal medicines in general.

Veratrilla baillonii Franch Could Alleviate Lipid Accumulation in LO2 Cells by Regulating Oxidative, Inflammatory, and Lipid Metabolic Signaling Pathways

Based on the pathological theory of lipid metabolism and using network pharmacology, this study was designed to investigate the protective effect of water extract of Veratrilla baillonii (WVBF) on non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) model using LO2 cells and to identify the potential mechanism underlying the effect. The components of V. baillonii were identified from the public database of traditional Chinese medicine systems pharmacology database (TCMSP). Cytoscape software was used to construct the related composite target network. Then, Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis were carried out for critical nodes. The BioGPS database was used to determine the distribution of the target in tissues and organs. Moreover, the inhibitory effect of V. baillonii was further investigated using an in vitro hepatocyte NAFLD model. Fourteen active components were then selected from the 27 known compounds of V. baillonii. The targets of gene enrichment analysis were mainly distributed in the lipid catabolism-related signaling pathway. Network analysis revealed that five target genes of TNF, MAPK8, mTOR, NF-ĸB, and SREBP-1c were key nodes and played important roles in this process. Organ localization analysis indicated that one of the core target site of V. baillonii was liver tissue. The results of the in vitro study revealed that WVBF can alleviate the inflammatory response and lipid accumulation in LO2 hepatocytes by inhibiting oxidative stress and the adipocytokine signaling pathway. Genes and proteins related to the lipid synthesis, such as SREBP-1C, acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC), and fatty acid synthase (FASN), were significantly decreased, and PPARα expression is significantly increased with WVBF administration. In conclusion, V. baillonii may regulate local lipid metabolism and attenuate oxidative stress and inflammatory factors through the PPARα/SREBP-1c signaling pathway. The present study also indicates that multiple components of V. baillonii regulate multiple targets and pathways in NAFLD. The findings highlight the potential of V. baillonii as a promising treatment strategy for nonalcoholic fatty liver injury.

Drug-Induced Liver Injury in GI Practice

Although drug-induced liver injury (DILI) is a rare clinical event, it carries significant morbidity and mortality, leaving it as the leading cause of acute liver failure in the United States. It is one of the most challenging diagnoses encountered by gastroenterologists. The development of various drug injury networks has played a vital role in expanding our knowledge regarding drug-related and herbal and dietary supplement-related liver injury. In this review, we discuss what defines liver injury, epidemiology of DILI, its biochemical and pathologic patterns, and management.

Essential Oil Phytocomplex Activity, a Review with a Focus on Multivariate Analysis for a Network Pharmacology-Informed Phytogenomic Approach

Thanks to omic disciplines and a systems biology approach, the study of essential oils and phytocomplexes has been lately rolling on a faster track. While metabolomic fingerprinting can provide an effective strategy to characterize essential oil contents, network pharmacology is revealing itself as an adequate, holistic platform to study the collective effects of herbal products and their multi-component and multi-target mediated mechanisms. Multivariate analysis can be applied to analyze the effects of essential oils, possibly overcoming the reductionist limits of bioactivity-guided fractionation and purification of single components. Thanks to the fast evolution of bioinformatics and database availability, disease-target networks relevant to a growing number of phytocomplexes are being developed. With the same potential actionability of pharmacogenomic data, phytogenomics could be performed based on relevant disease-target networks to inform and personalize phytocomplex therapeutic application.

An Integrated Approach Exploring the Synergistic Mechanism of Herbal Pairs in a Botanical Dietary Supplement: A Case Study of a Liver Protection Health Food

Herbal pairs are used as a bridge between single herb and polyherbal formulas in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) to provide rationale for complicated TCM formulas. The effectiveness and rationality of TCM herbal pairs have been widely applied as a strategy for dietary supplements. However, due to the complexity of the phytochemistry of individual and combinations of herbal materials, it is difficult to reveal their effective and synergistic mechanisms from a molecular or systematic point of view. In order to address this question, UPLC-Q-TOF/MS analysis and System Pharmacology tools were applied to explore the mechanism of action, using a White Peony (Paeoniae Radix Alba) and Licorice (Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma)-based dietary supplement. A total of sixteen chemical constituents of White Peony and Licorice were isolated and identified, which interact with 73 liver protection-related targets. Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis were then performed along with network analysis. Results showed that the synergistic mechanism of the White Peony and Licorice herbal pair was associated with their coregulation of bile secretion and ABC transporter pathways. In addition, Licorice exhibits a specific response to drug and xenobiotic metabolism pathways, whereas White Peony responds to Toll-like receptor signaling, C-type lectin receptor signaling, IL-17 signaling, and TNF signaling pathways, resulting in the prevention of hepatocyte apoptosis and the reduction of immune and inflammation-mediated liver damage. These findings suggest that a White Peony and Licorice herbal pair supplement would have a liver-protecting benefit through complimentary and synergistic mechanisms. This approach provides a new path to explore herbal compatibility in dietary supplements derived from TCM theory.

Drug-induced Liver Injury Secondary to Herbal and Dietary Supplements

The use of herbal and dietary supplements (HDS) is increasing in the United States and worldwide. Its significant association with liver injury has become a concern, particularly because rates of hepatotoxicity caused by HDS are increasing. There are variety of HDS available, ranging from multi-ingredient substances, to anabolic steroids for bodybuilding purposes, to individual ingredients for purposes of supplementing a diet. This article reviews the impact of liver injury cause by HDS and explores the hepatotoxic potential of such products and their individual ingredients.

Prediction of the mechanisms of action of Shenkang in chronic kidney disease: A network pharmacology study and experimental validation

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Traditional Chinese medicine provides a unique curative treatment of complex chronic diseases, including chronic kidney disease (CKD), which is not effectively treated with the current therapies. The pharmacological mechanisms of Shenkang (SK), a herbal medicine containing rhubarb (Rheum palmatum L. or R. tanguticum Maxim. ex Balf.), red sage (Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge), safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.), and astragalus (Astragalus mongholicus Bunge), widely used to treat CKD in China, are still unclear.

AIM OF THE STUDY

In this study, the comprehensive approach used for elucidating the pharmacological mechanisms of SK included the identification of the effective constituents, target prediction and network analysis, by investigating the interacting pathways between these molecules in the context of CKD. These results were validated by performing an in vivo study and by comparison with literature reviews.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This approach involved the following main steps: first, we constructed a molecular database for SK and screened for active molecules by conducting drug-likeness and drug half-life evaluations; second, we used a weighted ensemble similarity drug-targeting model to accurately identify the direct drug targets of the bioactive constituents; third, we constructed compound-target, target-pathway, and target-disease networks using the Cytoscape 3.2 software and determined the distribution of the targets in tissues and organs according to the BioGPS database. Finally, the resulting drug-target mechanisms were compared with those proposed by previous research on SK and validated in a mouse model of CKD.

RESULTS

By using Network analysis, 88 potential bioactive compounds in the four component herbs of SK and 85 CKD-related targets were identified, including pathways that involve the nuclear factor-κB, mitogen-activated protein kinase, transient receptor potential, and vascular endothelial growth factor, which were categorized as inflammation, proliferation, migration, and permeability modules. The results also included different tissues (kidneys, liver, lungs, and heart) and different disease types (urogenital, metabolic, endocrine, cardiovascular, and immune diseases as well as pathological processes) closely related to CKD. These findings agreed with those reported in the literature. However, our findings with the network pharmacology prediction did not account for all the effects reported for SK found in the literature, such as regulation of the hemodynamics, inhibition of oxidative stress and apoptosis, and the involvement of the transforming growth factor-β/SMAD3, sirtuin/forkhead box protein O (SIRT/FOXO) and B-cell lymphoma-2-associated X protein pathways. The in vivo validation experiment revealed that SK ameliorated CKD through antifibrosis and anti-inflammatory effects, by downregulating the levels of vascular cell adhesion protein 1, vitamin D receptor, cyclooxygenase-2, and matrix metalloproteinase 9 proteins in the unilateral ureteral obstruction mouse model. This was consistent with the predicted target and pathway networks.

CONCLUSIONS

SK exerted a curative effect on CKD and CKD-related diseases by targeting different organs, regulating inflammation and proliferation processes, and inhibiting abnormal extracellular matrix accumulation. Thus, pharmacological network analysis with in vivo validation explained the potential effects and mechanisms of SK in the treatment of CKD. However, these findings need to be further confirmed with clinical studies.

Radix Rehmanniae and Corni Fructus against Diabetic Nephropathy via AGE-RAGE Signaling Pathway

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Radix Rehmanniae and Corni Fructus (RC) have been widely applied to treat diabetic nephropathy (DN) for centuries. But the mechanism of how RC plays the therapeutic role against DN is unclear as yet.

METHODS

The information about RC was obtained from a public database. The active compounds of RC were screened by oral bioavailability (OB) and drug-likeness (DL). Gene ontology (GO) analysis was performed to realize the key targets of RC, and an active compound-potential target network was created. The therapeutic effects of RC active compounds and their key signal pathways were preliminarily probed via network pharmacology analysis and animal experiments.

RESULTS

In this study, 29 active compounds from RC and 64 key targets related to DN were collected using the network pharmacology method. The pathway enrichment analysis showed that RC regulated advanced glycosylation end product (AGE-) RAGE and IL-17 signaling pathways to treat DN. The animal experiments revealed that RC significantly improved metabolic parameters, inflammation renal structure, and function to protect the kidney against DN.

CONCLUSIONS

The results revealed the relationship between multicomponents and multitargets of RC. The administratiom of RC might remit the DM-induced renal damage through the AGE-RAGE signaling pathway to improve metabolic parameters and protect renal structure and function.

Systems pharmacology based approach to investigate the in-vivo therapeutic efficacy of Albizia lebbeck (L.) in experimental model of Parkinson's disease

Background

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by loss of dopaminergic neurons in substantia nigra pars compacta and clinically manifested mainly with motor dysfunctions. Plants are rich source of medicinally important bioactive compounds and inhabitants of underdeveloped countries used plants for treatment of various ailments. Albizia lebbeck has been reported to possess antioxidant and neuroprotective properties that suggest the evaluation of its traditional therapeutic potential in neurodegenerative diseases.

The aim of present study was to validate the traditional use of Albizia lebbeck (L.) and delineate its mechanism of action in PD. The systems pharmacology approach was employed to explain the Albizia lebbeck (L.) mechanism of action in PD.

Methods

The haloperidol-induced catalepsy was adopted as experimental model of PD for in-vivo studies in wistar albino rats. The systems pharmacology approach was employed to explain the Albizia lebbeck (L.) mechanism of action in PD.

Results

In-vivo studies revealed that Albizia lebbeck improved the motor functions and endurance as demonstrated in behavioral studies which were further supported by the rescue of endogenous antioxidant defense and reversal of ultrastructural damages in histological studies. System pharmacology approach identified 25 drug like compounds interacting with 132 targets in a bipartite graph that revealed the synergistic mechanism of action at system level. Kaemferol, phytosterol and okanin were found to be the important compounds nodes with prominent target nodes of TDP1 and MAPT.

Conclusion

The therapeutic efficiency of Albizia lebbeck in PD was effectively delineated in our experimental and systems pharmacology approach. Moreover, this approach further facilitates the drug discovery from Albizia lebbeck for PD.

Traditional Chinese Medicine-Guided Dietary Intervention for Male Youth Undergoing Drug Detoxification: A Randomized Controlled Trial

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of traditional Chinese medicine- (TCM-) guided dietary interventions in improving yang-qi deficiency and yin-blood deficiency TCM syndromes according to the principles of TCM syndrome differentiation theory in male youths undergoing drug detoxification during the rehabilitation period who stayed in a compulsory isolation detoxification center.

METHODS

Male youths undergoing drug detoxification who met the criteria to be included in the study were randomly divided into the intervention group (n = 62) and the control group (n = 61) according to a random number table in a 1 : 1 ratio. The intervention group received a TCM-guided diet, and the control group received routine food support. Over an intervention period of 3 months, we observed changes in the TCM syndrome element scores in the two groups before and after intervention.

RESULTS

After 3 months, the qi deficiency, yin deficiency, blood deficiency, and yin-blood deficiency syndrome in the intervention group improved significantly (P values 0.009, 0.000, 0.005, and 0.001, respectively). In the control group, yang deficiency, qi deficiency, and yang-qi deficiency syndromes worsened significantly (P values 0.003, 0.032, and 0.009, respectively). The differences (post-pre) in yang deficiency, qi deficiency, yang-qi deficiency, yin deficiency, blood deficiency, and yin-blood deficiency syndromes between the two groups were statistically significant (P values 0.003, 0.003, 0.003, 0.001, 0.005, and 0.002, respectively).

CONCLUSION

A TCM-guided diet can delay the worsening of yang-qi deficiency syndrome symptoms and improve yin-blood deficiency syndrome and the prognosis of male youth undergoing drug detoxification during the rehabilitation period.

Systems Pharmacology for Investigation of the Mechanisms of Action of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Drug Discovery

As a traditional medical intervention in Asia and a complementary and alternative medicine in western countries, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has attracted global attention in the life science field. TCM provides extensive natural resources for medicinal compounds, and these resources are generally regarded as effective and safe for use in drug discovery. However, owing to the complexity of compounds and their related multiple targets of TCM, it remains difficult to dissect the mechanisms of action of herbal medicines at a holistic level. To solve the issue, in the review, we proposed a novel approach of systems pharmacology to identify the bioactive compounds, predict their related targets, and illustrate the molecular mechanisms of action of TCM. With a predominant focus on the mechanisms of actions of TCM, we also highlighted the application of the systems pharmacology approach for the prediction of drug combination and dynamic analysis, the synergistic effects of TCMs, formula dissection, and theory analysis. In summary, the systems pharmacology method contributes to understand the complex interactions among biological systems, drugs, and complex diseases from a network perspective. Consequently, systems pharmacology provides a novel approach to promote drug discovery in a precise manner and a systems level, thus facilitating the modernization of TCM.

A Systems Pharmacology-Based Study of the Molecular Mechanisms of San Cao Decoction for Treating Hypertension

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has a longstanding history and has gained widespread clinical applications. San Cao Decoction (SCD) is an experience prescription first formulated by Prof. Duzhou Liu. We previously demonstrated its antihypertensive effects; however, to systematically explain the underlying mechanisms of action, we employed a systems pharmacology approach for pharmacokinetic screening and target prediction by constructing protein-protein interaction networks of hypertension-related and putative SCD-related targets, and Database for Annotation, Visualization, and Integrated Discovery enrichment analysis. We identified 123 active compounds in SCD and 116 hypertension-related targets. Furthermore, the enrichment analysis of the drug-target network showed that SCD acts in a multidimensional manner to regulate PI3K-Akt-endothelial nitric oxide synthase signaling to maintain blood pressure. Our results highlighted the molecular mechanisms of antihypertensive actions of medicinal herbs at a systematic level.

Prediction of VEGF-C as a Key Target of Pure Total Flavonoids From Citrus Against NAFLD in Mice via Network Pharmacology

Pure total flavonoids from Citrus (PTFC) effectively reduce the symptoms of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Our previous microarray analysis uncovered the alterations of important signaling pathways in the treatment of NAFLD with PTFC. However, the underlying core genes that might be targeted by PTFC, which play important roles in the progression of NALFD are yet to be identified. In this study, we predicted the vascular endothelial growth factor-C (VEGF-C) as potential key molecular target of PTFC against NAFLD via network pharmacology analysis. The network pharmacology approach presented here provided important clues for understanding the mechanisms of PTFC treatment in the development of NAFLD.

A network pharmacology approach to investigate the blood enriching mechanism of Danggui buxue Decoction

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Danggui buxue Decoction (DBD) has been frequently used to treat with blood deficiency, which consisted of Danggui (DG) and Huangqi (HQ) at a ratio of 1:5. Accumulating evidence showed that blood deficiency in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) was similar to anemia in modern medicine.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The purpose of this study was to explore its therapeutic mechanism of with network pharmacology approach.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We explored the chemical compounds of DBD and used compound ADME screening to identify the potential compounds. Targets for the therapeutic actions of DBD were obtained from the PharmMapper, Swiss, SEA and STITCH. GO analysis and pathway enrichment analysis was performed using the DAVID webserver. Cytoscape was used to visualize the compound-target-pathway network for DBD. The pharmacodynamics and crucial targets were also validated.

RESULTS

Thirty-six potential active components in DBD and 49 targets which the active components acted on were identified. 47 KEGG pathways which DBD acted on were also come to light. And then, according to KEGG pathway annotation analysis, only 16 pathways seemed to be related to the blood nourishing effect of DBD, such as PI3K-AKT pathway, and so on. Only 32 targets participated in these 16 pathways and they were acted on by 29 of the 36 active compounds. Whole pharmacodynamic experiments showed that DBD had significant effects to blood loss rats. Furthermore, DBD could promote the up-regulation of hematopoietic and immune related targets and the down-regulation of inflammatory related targets. Significantly, with the results of effective rate, molecular docking and experimental validation, we predicted astragaloside IV in HQ, senkyunolide A and senkyunolide K in DG might be the major contributing compounds to DBD's blood enriching effect.

CONCLUSION

In this study, a systematical network pharmacology approach was built. Our results provided a basis for the future study of senkyunolide A and senkyunolide K as the blood enriching compounds in DBD. Furthermore, combined network pharmacology with validation experimental results, the nourishing blood effect of DBD might be manifested by the dual mechanism of enhancing immunity and promoting hematopoiesis.

Comparative comprehension on the anti-rheumatic Chinese herbal medicine Siegesbeckiae Herba: Combined computational predictions and experimental investigations

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Siegesbeckiae Herba (SH) is a traditional anti-rheumatic herbal medicine in China. The SH-derived product is the first licensed traditional herbal medicinal product for the management of rheumatism-induced joint and muscle pain in United Kingdom. The authenticated plant origins listed in the official Chinese Pharmacopeia for SH include Siegesbeckia orientalis L. (SO), S. pubescens Markino (SP) and S. glabrescens Markino (SG). Although the therapeutic effects of these SH species in treating rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are similar, their difference in chemical profiles suggested their anti-rheumatisms mechanisms and effects may be different.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study was designed to comparatively comprehend the chemical and biological similarity and difference of SO, SP and SG for treating rheumatoid arthritis based on the combination of computational predictions and biological experiment investigations.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The reported compounds for SO, SP and SG were obtained from four chemical databases (SciFinder, Combined Chemical Dictionary v2009, Dictionary of Natural Products and Chinese academy of sciences Chemistry Database). The RA-relevant proteins involved in nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB), oxidative stress and autophagy signaling pathways were collected from the databases of Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes and Biocarta. The comparative comprehension of SH plants was performed using similarity analysis, molecular docking and compounds-protein network analysis. The chemical characterization of different SH extracts were qualitatively and quantitatively analyzed, and their effects on specific RA-relevant protein expressions were investigated using Western blotting analysis.

RESULTS

Chemical analysis revealed that SO contains mainly sequiterpenes and pimarenoids; SP contains mainly pimarenoids, sequiterpenes, and kaurenoids; and SG contains mainly pimarenoids, flavonoids and alkaloids. Moreover, coincided with the predicted results from computational analysis, different SH species were observed to present different chemical constituents, and diverse effects on RA-relevant proteins at the biological level.

CONCLUSIONS

The chemical and biological properties of SO, SP and SG were different and distinctive. The systematic comparison between these three confusing Chinese herbs provides reliable characterization profiles to clarify the pharmacological substances in SH for the precise management of rheumatism/-related diseases in clinics.

Integration of phytochemicals and phytotherapy into cancer precision medicine

Concepts of individualized therapy in the 1970s and 1980s attempted to develop predictive in vitro tests for individual drug responsiveness without reaching clinical routine. Precision medicine attempts to device novel individual cancer therapy strategies. Using bioinformatics, relevant knowledge is extracted from huge data amounts. However, tumor heterogeneity challenges chemotherapy due to genetically and phenotypically different cell subpopulations, which may lead to refractory tumors. Natural products always served as vital resources for cancer therapy (e.g., Vinca alkaloids, camptothecin, paclitaxel, etc.) and are also sources for novel drugs. Targeted drugs developed to specifically address tumor-related proteins represent the basis of precision medicine. Natural products from plants represent excellent resource for targeted therapies. Phytochemicals and herbal mixtures act multi-specifically, i.e. they attack multiple targets at the same time. Network pharmacology facilitates the identification of the complexity of pharmacogenomic networks and new signaling networks that are distorted in tumors. In the present review, we give a conceptual overview, how the problem of drug resistance may be approached by integrating phytochemicals and phytotherapy into academic western medicine. Modern technology platforms (e.g. “-omics” technologies, DNA/RNA sequencing, and network pharmacology) can be applied for diverse treatment modalities such as cytotoxic and targeted chemotherapy as well as phytochemicals and phytotherapy. Thereby, these technologies represent an integrative momentum to merge the best of two worlds: clinical oncology and traditional medicine. In conclusion, the integration of phytochemicals and phytotherapy into cancer precision medicine represents a valuable asset to chemically synthesized chemicals and therapeutic antibodies.

NiaoDuQing granules relieve chronic kidney disease symptoms by decreasing renal fibrosis and anemia

NiaoDuQing (NDQ) granules, a traditional Chinese medicine, has been clinically used in China for over fourteen years to treat chronic kidney disease (CKD). To elucidate the mechanisms underlying the therapeutic benefits of NDQ, we designed an approach incorporating chemoinformatics, bioinformatics, network biology methods, and cellular and molecular biology experiments. A total of 182 active compounds were identified in NDQ granules, and 397 putative targets associated with different diseases were derived through ADME modelling and target prediction tools. Protein-protein interaction networks of CKD-related and putative NDQ targets were constructed, and 219 candidate targets were identified based on topological features. Pathway enrichment analysis showed that the candidate targets were mostly related to the TGF-β, the p38MAPK, and the erythropoietin (EPO) receptor signaling pathways, which are known contributors to renal fibrosis and/or renal anemia. A rat model of CKD was established to validate the drug-target mechanisms predicted by the systems pharmacology analysis. Experimental results confirmed that NDQ granules exerted therapeutic effects on CKD and its comorbidities, including renal anemia, mainly by modulating the TGF-β and EPO signaling pathways. Thus, the pharmacological actions of NDQ on CKD symptoms correlated well with in silico predictions.

Chinese Herbal Medicine Meets Biological Networks of Complex Diseases: A Computational Perspective

With the rapid development of cheminformatics, computational biology, and systems biology, great progress has been made recently in the computational research of Chinese herbal medicine with in-depth understanding towards pharmacognosy. This paper summarized these studies in the aspects of computational methods, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) compound databases, and TCM network pharmacology. Furthermore, we chose arachidonic acid metabolic network as a case study to demonstrate the regulatory function of herbal medicine in the treatment of inflammation at network level. Finally, a computational workflow for the network-based TCM study, derived from our previous successful applications, was proposed.

Immunomodulatory effects of Pseudostellaria heterophylla (Miquel) Pax on regulation of Th1/Th2 levels in mice with atopic dermatitis

Pseudostellaria heterophylla (PH) has various pharmacological effects that include immunologic enhancement and anti-oxidation. However, it remains unclear whether PH exerts beneficial effects in dermatological diseases. The present study examined the effects of PH on a 2,4-dinitrochlorobenzene (DNCB)-induced atopic dermatitis (AD) mouse model and elucidated its underlying mechanism of action. PH extract (1 and 100 mg/ml) was applied topically to DNCB-treated dorsal skin of mice every day for 11 days. The immunomodulatory effects of PH were evaluated by measuring skin thickness, mast cell infiltration, serum levels of immunoglobulin E (IgE), and mRNA expression levels of T helper (h)1/Th2 and pro-inflammatory cytokines in dorsal skin. In addition, cluster of differentiation (CD)4⁺ T cells were detected in dorsal skin by immunohistochemistry. Topical application of PH significantly reduced the thickness of dermis, epidermis and serum IgE production compared with the DNCB group. PH treatment inhibited infiltration of inflammatory cells, including mast cells and CD4⁺ T cells, and suppressed the mRNA expression levels of cytokines (interferon-γ, interleukin-4, −6, −8 and −1β, and tumor necrosis factor-α) associated with the immune response. Furthermore, PH treatment significantly downregulated the protein expression levels of nuclear factor-κB, phosphorylated inhibitor of κBα and mitogen-activated protein kinases. The results suggested that PH may be a potential therapeutic strategy for the treatment of AD via the modulation of Th1 and Th2 levels.

Identification and characterization of naturally occurring inhibitors against human carboxylesterase 2 in White Mulberry Root-bark

White Mulberry Root-bark (WMR) is an edible Chinese herbal used for the treatment of inflammation, nephritis and asthma. This study aimed to investigate the inhibitory effects of ethanol extract from WMR against human carboxylesterase 2 (hCE2), as well as to identity and character natural hCE2 inhibitors in this herbal. Our results demonstrated that the ethanol extract of WMR displayed potent inhibitory effects against hCE2, while three major bioactive constitutes in WMR were identified on the basis of LC fingerprinting combined with activity-based screening of LC fractions. Three bioactive compounds including SD, KG and SC were efficiently identified by comparison of LC retention times, UV and MS spectral data, with the help of authentic standards. The inhibition potentials and inhibition types of these natural compounds against hCE2 were further investigated in human liver microsomes. The results demonstrated that these bioactive compounds are potent non-competitive inhibitors against hCE2, with the K_i values ranging from 0.76μM to 1.09μM. All these findings suggested that three abundant natural compounds in WMR displayed potent inhibitory effects against hCE2, which could be used as lead compounds to develop more potent hCE2 inhibitors for the alleviation of hCE2-mediated severe delayed-onset diarrhea.

Network pharmacology of cancer: From understanding of complex interactomes to the design of multi-target specific therapeutics from nature

Despite massive investments in drug research and development, the significant decline in the number of new drugs approved or translated to clinical use raises the question, whether single targeted drug discovery is the right approach. To combat complex systemic diseases that harbour robust biological networks such as cancer, single target intervention is proved to be ineffective. In such cases, network pharmacology approaches are highly useful, because they differ from conventional drug discovery by addressing the ability of drugs to target numerous proteins or networks involved in a disease. Pleiotropic natural products are one of the promising strategies due to their multi-targeting and due to lower side effects. In this review, we discuss the application of network pharmacology for cancer drug discovery. We provide an overview of the current state of knowledge on network pharmacology, focus on different technical approaches and implications for cancer therapy (e.g. polypharmacology and synthetic lethality), and illustrate the therapeutic potential with selected examples green tea polyphenolics, Eleutherococcus senticosus, Rhodiola rosea, and Schisandra chinensis). Finally, we present future perspectives on their plausible applications for diagnosis and therapy of cancer.

ITPI: Initial Transcription Process-Based Identification Method of Bioactive Components in Traditional Chinese Medicine Formula

Identification of bioactive components is an important area of research in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) formula. The reported identification methods only consider the interaction between the components and the target proteins, which is not sufficient to explain the influence of TCM on the gene expression. Here, we propose the Initial Transcription Process-based Identification (ITPI) method for the discovery of bioactive components that influence transcription factors (TFs). In this method, genome-wide chip detection technology was used to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs). The TFs of DEGs were derived from GeneCards. The components influencing the TFs were derived from STITCH. The bioactive components in the formula were identified by evaluating the molecular similarity between the components in formula and the components that influence the TF of DEGs. Using the formula of Tian-Zhu-San (TZS) as an example, the reliability and limitation of ITPI were examined and 16 bioactive components that influence TFs were identified.

Anti-osteoporosis effect of Epimedium via an estrogen-like mechanism based on a system-level approach

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Epimedium is a popular traditional herbal medicine worldwide that has long been used to relieve osteoporosis. The estrogenic properties of the herb are conferred by several phytoestrogens, such as flavonoids, lignans, and steroids. However, the poor understanding on the estrogen-like mechanism of Epimedium at the molecular and system levels limits the applications of this herb in osteoporosis treatment.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this study, systems pharmacology was established to investigate the relationship between Epimedium and estrogen against osteoporosis by integrating active component screening, drug-likeness evaluation, herb feature mapping, target prediction and validation, and network analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 77 active components that possessed similar structural features to estrogen as determined using herb feature mapping were selected from Epimedium by oral bioavailability prediction and drug-likeness evaluation. Twenty three osteoporosis-related targets were obtained from the active components of Epimedium as potential targets, 11 of which were common targets with estrogen. All osteoporosis-related targets were further mapped to compound-target and target-pathway networks. Results displayed that Epimedium can exert anti-osteoporosis effects by directly regulating the 11 estrogen-related targets and a set of target proteins on five estrogen-related pathways.

CONCLUSION

This study explained the estrogen-like mechanism of Epimedium in preventing and treating osteoporosis, and provided a new standpoint for exploring the traditional herbal medicine against osteoporosis.

Medical students' knowledge, attitude, and practice of complementary and alternative medicine: a pre-and post-exposure survey in Majmaah University, Saudi Arabia

BACKGROUND

Evidently, complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is a recognized medical practice that efficiently uses multiple treatment therapies and techniques in the prevention and management of a variety of human disorders. Many medical schools have integrated CAM curriculum in medical education system worldwide. Research in knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) of diverse health professionals exposed to CAM courses is important from many perspectives including improvement in KAP and teaching skills of faculty, together with capacity building and curriculum development.

OBJECTIVE AND SETTING

This pre- and post-design cross-sectional study aimed to assess CAM-KAP of two intakes of medical students in Majmaah University, Saudi Arabia.

METHODS

The second-year medical students of the first (year 2012-2013) and second (year 2013-2014) intake (n=26 and 39, respectively) were selected for this study. A reliable, 16-item self-administered questionnaire was distributed among all the students for answering before and after the 48-hour CAM course. The data were analyzed using appropriate statistical test of significance.

RESULTS

Medical students' knowledge and attitude toward CAM significantly improved across some subitems of CAM questionnaire with a positive trend in the rest of its items including their views on CAM practices.

CONCLUSION

CAM course tends to have a positive impact on KAP of medical students. The preliminary results of this study call for further research with a larger sample in academic settings across the nation.

Systems pharmacology-based drug discovery for marine resources: an example using sea cucumber (Holothurians)

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Sea cucumber, a kind of marine animal, have long been utilized as tonic and traditional remedies in the Middle East and Asia because of its effectiveness against hypertension, asthma, rheumatism, cuts and burns, impotence, and constipation. In this study, an overall study performed on sea cucumber was used as an example to show drug discovery from marine resource by using systems pharmacology model. The value of marine natural resources has been extensively considered because these resources can be potentially used to treat and prevent human diseases. However, the discovery of drugs from oceans is difficult, because of complex environments in terms of composition and active mechanisms. Thus, a comprehensive systems approach which could discover active constituents and their targets from marine resource, understand the biological basis for their pharmacological properties is necessary.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this study, a feasible pharmacological model based on systems pharmacology was established to investigate marine medicine by incorporating active compound screening, target identification, and network and pathway analysis.

RESULTS

As a result, 106 candidate components of sea cucumber and 26 potential targets were identified. Furthermore, the functions of sea cucumber in health improvement and disease treatment were elucidated in a holistic way based on the established compound-target and target-disease networks, and incorporated pathways.

CONCLUSIONS

This study established a novel strategy that could be used to explore specific active mechanisms and discover new drugs from marine sources.

Large dosage of chishao in formulae for cholestatic hepatitis: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Objective. To evaluate the efficacy and safety of large dosage of Chishao in formulae for treatment of cholestatic hepatitis. Methods. The major databases (PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Chinese Biomedical Database Wanfang, VIP medicine information system, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure) were searched until January 2014. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of large dosage of Chishao in formulae that reported on publications in treatment of cholestatic hepatitis with total efficacy rate, together with the biochemical indices including alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), total bilirubin (TBIL), and direct bilirubin (DBIL), were extracted by two reviewers. The Cochrane tool was used for the assessment of risk of bias included trials. Data were analyzed with RevMan 5.2.7 software. Results. 11 RCTs involving 1275 subjects with cholestatic hepatitis were included. Compared with essential therapy, large dosage of Chishao in formulae demonstrated more efficiently with down regulation of serum ALT, AST, TBIL, DBIL. Meanwhile, there were no obvious adverse events. Conclusion. As a promising novel treatment approach, widely using large dosage of Chishao in formulae may enhance the curative efficacy for cholestatic hepatitis. Considering being accepted by more and more practitioners, further rigorously designed clinical studies are required.

TCMSP: a database of systems pharmacology for drug discovery from herbal medicines

Background

Modern medicine often clashes with traditional medicine such as Chinese herbal medicine because of the little understanding of the underlying mechanisms of action of the herbs. In an effort to promote integration of both sides and to accelerate the drug discovery from herbal medicines, an efficient systems pharmacology platform that represents ideal information convergence of pharmacochemistry, ADME properties, drug-likeness, drug targets, associated diseases and interaction networks, are urgently needed.

Description

The traditional Chinese medicine systems pharmacology database and analysis platform (TCMSP) was built based on the framework of systems pharmacology for herbal medicines. It consists of all the 499 Chinese herbs registered in the Chinese pharmacopoeia with 29,384 ingredients, 3,311 targets and 837 associated diseases. Twelve important ADME-related properties like human oral bioavailability, half-life, drug-likeness, Caco-2 permeability, blood-brain barrier and Lipinski’s rule of five are provided for drug screening and evaluation. TCMSP also provides drug targets and diseases of each active compound, which can automatically establish the compound-target and target-disease networks that let users view and analyze the drug action mechanisms. It is designed to fuel the development of herbal medicines and to promote integration of modern medicine and traditional medicine for drug discovery and development.

Conclusions

The particular strengths of TCMSP are the composition of the large number of herbal entries, and the ability to identify drug-target networks and drug-disease networks, which will help revealing the mechanisms of action of Chinese herbs, uncovering the nature of TCM theory and developing new herb-oriented drugs. TCMSP is freely available at http://sm.nwsuaf.edu.cn/lsp/tcmsp.php.