Genkwanin inhibits proinflammatory mediators mainly through the regulation of miR-101/MKP-1/MAPK pathway in LPS-activated macrophages

Traditional Chinese medicine in chronic rhinosinusitis: Mechanisms and postoperative recovery

BACKGROUND

Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is inflammation of the sinuses and nasal passages that lasts for >3 months. Its pathogenesis is complex, treatment is difficult, and it has multiple effects on patients. Although surgical treatment can effectively relieve the symptoms, the recurrence rate is high, and there are postoperative complications such as infection. At present, nasal spray hormone, antibiotics and other western drugs are used in clinical treatment, but there are drug dependence and toxic side effects. However, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has made remarkable progress in the treatment and promotion of postoperative recovery, guided by its unique TCM theory, and has little toxic and side effects, providing more treatment options for patients.

PURPOSE

The review aims to elucidate the mechanism of CRS from the aspects of traditional medicine and modern medicine, and evaluate the influence of TCM compound, components of TCM, TCM nasal irrigation, TCM fumigation and other auxiliary treatment methods on CRS, providing a new perspective for the application of TCM in CRS.

METHODS

We conducted the literature retrieval with PubMed, Web of Science, Google Scholar and CNKI databases in a systematic manner (up to July 2024). The keywords included "sinusitis", "chronic rhinosinusitis", "nasal polyps", "herbal medicine", "medicinal plants", "traditional Chinese medicine", "oxidative stress", "pathogenic microbial", "anatomic structure" and so on. The obtained literatures were comprehensively sorted out. For image creation, Figdraw 2.0 was methodically employed.

RESULTS

The pathogenesis of CRS involves various interaction mechanisms such as bacterial biofilm formation, oxidative stress injury and impaired ciliary mucosa clearance. It is worth noting that TCM exerts therapeutic effects by targeting the above-mentioned pathological processes. Clinical studies have confirmed that TCM comprehensive therapy can significantly improve sinus symptom score, accelerate postoperative mucosal epithelialization, and promote postoperative rehabilitation of CRS. We also discussed the toxic side effects and clinical applications of related drugs.

CONCLUSION

In TCM, CRS is classified under the diagnostic category of Bi Yuan. Its pathogenesis is attributed to exogenous invasion of the six climatic pathogens (Liu Yin: wind, cold, summer heat, dampness, dryness, and fire), spleen-stomach qi deficiency, internal damp-heat accumulation, and qi-blood stasis. Guided by TCM principles, therapeutic strategies are individualized through syndrome differentiation, which tailors interventions to the patient's unique clinical manifestations. Therapeutic modalities include oral herbal formulations (e.g., decoctions or granules), acupuncture, and acupoint application. These approaches aim to restore physiological balance by harmonizing yin and yang, resolving meridian obstructions, and enhancing lung qi circulation to alleviate nasal congestion and improve ventilation.

Genkwanin alleviates intervertebral disc degeneration via regulating ITGA2/PI3K/AKT pathway and inhibiting apoptosis and senescence

Intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) is a progressive degenerative disease influenced by various factors. Genkwanin, a known anti-inflammatory flavonoid, has not been explored for its potential in IVDD management. This study aims to investigate the effects and mechanisms of genkwanin on IVDD. In vitro, cell experiments revealed that genkwanin dose-dependently inhibited Interleukin-1β-induced expression levels of inflammatory factors (Interleukin-6, inducible nitric oxide synthase, cyclooxygenase-2) and degradation metabolic protein (matrix metalloproteinase-13). Concurrently, genkwanin upregulated the expression of synthetic metabolism genes (type II collagen, aggrecan). Moreover, genkwanin effectively reduced the phosphorylation of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/AKT/mammalian target of rapamycin, mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), and nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) pathways. Transcriptome sequencing analysis identified integrin α2 (ITGA2) as a potential target of genkwanin, and silencing ITGA2 reversed the activation of PI3K/AKT pathway induced by Interleukin-1β. Furthermore, genkwanin alleviated Interleukin-1β-induced senescence and apoptosis in nucleus pulposus cells. In vivo animal experiments demonstrated that genkwanin mitigated the progression of IVDD in the rat model through imaging and histological examinations. In conclusion, This study suggest that genkwanin inhibits inflammation in nucleus pulposus cells, promotes extracellular matrix remodeling, suppresses cellular senescence and apoptosis, through the ITGA2/PI3K/AKT, NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathways. These findings indicate that genkwanin may be a promising therapeutic candidate for IVDD.

Investigating the association between the tissue expression of miRNA-101, JAK2/STAT3 with TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β, and IL-10 cytokines in the ulcerative colitis patients

BACKGROUND

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease caused by numerous factors, such as immune system dysfunction and genetic factors. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play a crucial role in UC pathogenesis, particularly via the JAK-STAT pathway. Our aim was to investigate the association between miRNA-101 and JAK2-STAT3 signaling pathway with inflammatory cytokines in UC patients.

METHODS

We enrolled 35 UC patients and 35 healthy individuals as the control group, referred to Shariati Hospital, Tehran, Iran. Patients were diagnosed based on clinical, laboratory, histological, and colonoscopy criteria. RNA and protein extracted from tissue samples. Real-time PCR was used to assess the expression levels of miRNA-101, interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, and IL-10 genes, while western blot was employed to measure levels of P-STAT3, total STAT3, and JAK2 proteins.

RESULTS

Expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 significantly increased, while the expression of IL-10 significantly decreased in the case group versus controls. Additionally, miRNA-101 expression was significantly higher in UC patients. A significant correlation between miRNA-101 and IL-6 expression was observed, indicating their relationship and possible impact on cell signaling pathways, JAK2-STAT3. No significant changes were observed in phosphorylated and total STAT3 and JAK2 protein expression.

CONCLUSION

This study provides evidence of increased miRNA-101 expression in UC tissue, suggesting a potential correlation between miRNA-101 and IL-6 expression and their involvement in the JAK2-STAT3 pathway. The study confirms alterations in UC patients' pro-inflammatory cytokines and anti-inflammatory IL-10. However, further investigations are needed to understand the exact role of miRNA-101 in UC pathogenesis fully.

Flavonoid diversity and roles in the lipopolysaccharide-mediated inflammatory response of monocytes and macrophages

Targeting lipopolysaccharide (LPS)/toll-like receptor 4 signaling in mononuclear phagocytes has been explored for the treatment of inflammation and inflammation-related disorders. However, only a few key targets have been translated into clinical applications. Flavonoids, a class of ubiquitous plant secondary metabolites, possess a privileged scaffold which serves as a valuable template for designing pharmacologically active compounds directed against diseases with inflammatory components. This perspective provides a general overview of the diversity of flavonoids and their multifaceted mechanisms that interfere with LPS-induced signaling in monocytes and macrophages. Focus is placed on flavonoids targeting MD-2, IκB kinases, c-Jun N-terminal kinases, extracellular signal-regulated kinase, p38 MAPK and PI3K/Akt or modulating LPS-related gene expression.

Wikstroemia: A Review on its Phytochemistry and Pharmacology

BACKGROUND

Wikstroemia (the family Thymelaeaceae) consists of medicinal plants which established great value in traditional medicines for many years. For instance, W. indica is always recommended for treatments of syphilis, arthritis, whooping cough, and cancer. No systematic review of bioactive compounds from this genus has been recorded to date.

OBJECTIVES

The objective of the current study is to review phytochemical investigations and pharmacological effects of Wikstroemia plant extracts and isolates.

METHODS

By searching on the internet, the relevant data about Wikstroemia medicinal plants were retrieved from internationally renowned scientific databases, such as Web of Science, Google Scholar, Sci-Finder, Pubmed, and so on.

RESULTS

More than 290 structurally diverse metabolites were separated and identified from this genus. They include terpenoids, lignans, flavonoids, coumarins, mono-phenols, diarylpentanoids, fatty acids, phytosterols, anthraquinones, and others. Pharmacological records indicated that Wikstroemia plant crude extracts and their isolated compounds bring out various beneficial effects, such as anticancer, antiinflammatory, anti-aging, anti-viral, antimicrobacterial, antimalarial, neuroprotective, and hepatoprotective activities.

CONCLUSION

Wikstroemia has been regarded as a worthy genus with numerous phytochemicals and various pharmacological potentials. Modern pharmacological studies have successfully provided evidence for traditional uses. Nonetheless, their action mechanisms need to be further investigated. Although various secondary metabolites were identified from Wikstroemia plants, the current pharmacological research mainly concentrated on terpenoids, lignans, flavonoids, and coumarins.

Metabolic engineering in Streptomyces albidoflavus for the biosynthesis of the methylated flavonoids sakuranetin, acacetin, and genkwanin

Flavonoids are important plant secondary metabolites showing antioxidant, antitumor, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral activities, among others. Methylated flavonoids are particularly interesting compared to non-methylated ones due to their greater stability and intestinal absorption, which improves their oral bioavailability. In this work we have stablished a metabolic engineered strain of Streptomyces albidoflavus with enhanced capabilities for flavonoid production, achieving a 1.6-fold increase in the biosynthesis of naringenin with respect to the parental strain. This improved strain, S. albidoflavus UO-FLAV-004, has been used for the heterologous biosynthesis of the methylated flavonoids sakuranetin, acacetin and genkwanin. The achieved titers of sakuranetin and acacetin were 8.2 mg/L and 5.8 mg/L, respectively. The genkwanin titers were 0.8 mg/L, with a bottleneck identified in this producing strain. After applying a co-culture strategy, genkwanin production titers reached 3.5 mg/L, which represents a 4.4-fold increase. To our knowledge, this study presents the first biosynthesis of methylated flavonoids in not only any Streptomyces species, but also in any Gram-positive bacteria.

Anti-atherosclerosis mechanisms associated with regulation of non-coding RNAs by active monomers of traditional Chinese medicine

Atherosclerosis is the leading cause of numerous cardiovascular diseases with a high mortality rate. Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), RNA molecules that do not encode proteins in human genome transcripts, are known to play crucial roles in various physiological and pathological processes. Recently, researches on the regulation of atherosclerosis by ncRNAs, mainly including microRNAs, long non-coding RNAs, and circular RNAs, have gradually become a hot topic. Traditional Chinese medicine has been proved to be effective in treating cardiovascular diseases in China for a long time, and its active monomers have been found to target a variety of atherosclerosis-related ncRNAs. These active monomers of traditional Chinese medicine hold great potential as drugs for the treatment of atherosclerosis. Here, we summarized current advancement of the molecular pathways by which ncRNAs regulate atherosclerosis and mainly highlighted the mechanisms of traditional Chinese medicine monomers in regulating atherosclerosis through targeting ncRNAs.

The macrophage polarization by miRNAs and its potential role in the treatment of tumor and inflammation (Review)

The characteristics of monocyte/macrophage lineage are diversity and plasticity, mainly manifested by M1 and M2 subtypes in the body tissues, and playing different roles in the immunity. In the polarization process of macrophages, the classic molecular mechanism is related to sequential transcription factors. Whether in tumor or inflammatory local microenvironment, the pathological factors of the local microenvironment often affect the polarization of M1 and M2 macrophages, and participate in the occurrence and development of these pathological processes. In recent years, a growing number of research results demonstrated that non‑coding RNA (ncRNA) also participates in the polarization process of macrophages, in addition to traditional cytokines and transcriptional regulation signal pathway molecules. Among numerous ncRNAs, microRNAs (miRNAs) have attracted more attention from scholars both domestically and internationally, and significant progress has been made in basic and clinical research. Therefore, for improved understanding of the molecular mechanism of miRNAs in macrophage polarization and analysis of the potential value of this regulatory pathway in tumor and inflammatory intervention therapy, a comprehensive review of the progress of relevant literature research was conducted and some viewpoints and perspectives were proposed.

Genkwanin suppresses mitochondrial dysfunction to alleviate IL-1β-elicited inflammation, apoptosis, and degradation of extracellular matrix in chondrocytes through upregulating DUSP1

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a form of chronic degenerative disease contributing to elevated disability rate among the elderly. Genkwanin is an active component extracted from Daphne genkwa possessing pharmacologic effects. Here, this study is designed to expound the specific role of genkwanin in OA and elaborate the probable downstream mechanism. First, the viability of chondrocytes in the presence or absence of interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) treatment was detected by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay. Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick end labeling assay was used to assess cell apoptosis. Inflammatory response was estimated through enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and Western blot. In addition, immunofluorescence staining and Western blot were utilized to measure the expression of extracellular matrix (ECM)-associated proteins. Dual-specificity protein phosphatase-1 (DUSP1) expression was tested by reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and Western blot. Following DUSP1 elevation in genkwanin-treated chondrocytes exposed to IL-1β, inflammatory response and ECM-associated factors were evaluated as forementioned. In addition, 5,5',6,6'-tetrachloro-1,1',3,3'-tetraethylbenzimidazolocarbocyanine iodide staining was to assess the mitochondrial membrane potential. Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) level was examined with ATP assay kit, and RT-qPCR was used to test mitochondrial DNA expression. Results indicated that genkwanin administration enhanced the viability while ameliorated the apoptosis, inflammatory response, and ECM degradation in IL-1β-induced chondrocytes. Besides, genkwanin treatment fortified DUSP1 expression in IL-1β-exposed chondrocytes. DUSP1 interference further offsets the impacts of genkwanin on the inflammation, ECM degradation, and mitochondrial dysfunction in IL-1β-challenged chondrocytes. In short, genkwanin enhanced DUSP1 expression to mitigate mitochondrial dysfunction, thus ameliorating IL-1β-elicited inflammation, apoptosis, and degradation of ECM in chondrocytes.

Metabolic engineering and optimization of Escherichia coli co-culture for the de novo synthesis of genkwanin

Genkwanin has various significant roles in nutrition, biomedicine, and pharmaceutical biology. Previously, this compound was chiefly produced by plant-originated extraction or chemical synthesis. However, due to increasing concern and demand for safe food and environmental issues, the biotechnological production of genkwanin and other bioactive compounds based on safe, cheap, and renewable substrates has gained much interest. This paper described recombinant Escherichia coli-based co-culture engineering that was reconstructed for the de novo production of genkwanin from d-glucose. The artificial genkwanin biosynthetic chain was divided into 2 modules in which the upstream strain contained the genes for synthesizing p-coumaric acid from d-glucose, and the downstream module contained a gene cluster that produced the precursor apigenin and the final product, genkwanin. The Box-Behnken design, a response surface methodology, was used to empirically model the production of genkwanin and optimize its productivity. As a result, the application of the designed co-culture improved the genkwanin production by 48.8 ± 1.3 mg/L or 1.7-fold compared to the monoculture. In addition, the scale-up of genkwanin bioproduction by a bioreactor resulted in 68.5 ± 1.9 mg/L at a 48 hr time point. The combination of metabolic engineering and fermentation technology was therefore a very efficient and applicable approach to enhance the production of other bioactive compounds.

Flavonoids of Haloxylon salicornicum (Rimth) prevent cisplatin-induced acute kidney injury by modulating oxidative stress, inflammation, Nrf2, and SIRT1

Cisplatin (CIS) is an effective chemotherapeutic drug used for the treatment of many types of cancers, but its use is associated with adverse effects. Nephrotoxicity is a serious side effect of CIS and limits its therapeutic utility. Haloxylon salicornicum is a desert shrub used traditionally in the treatment of inflammatory disorders, but neither its flavonoid content nor its protective efficacy against CIS nephrotoxicity has been investigated. In this study, seven flavonoids were isolated from H. salicornicum methanolic extract (HSE) and showed in silico binding affinity with NF-κB, Keap1, and SIRT1. The protective effect of HSE against CIS nephrotoxicity was investigated. Rats received HSE (100, 200, and 400 mg/kg) for 14 days followed by a single injection of CIS. The drug increased Kim-1, BUN, and creatinine and caused multiple histopathological changes. CIS-administered rats showed an increase in renal ROS, MDA, NO, TNF-α, IL-1β, and NF-κB p65. HSE prevented tissue injury, and diminished ROS, NF-κB, and inflammatory mediators. HSE enhanced antioxidants and Bcl-2 and downregulated pro-apoptosis markers. These effects were associated with downregulation of Keap1 and microRNA-34a, and upregulation of SIRT1 and Nrf2/HO-1 signaling. In conclusion, H. salicornicum is rich in flavonoids, and its extract prevented oxidative stress, inflammation, and kidney injury, and modulated Nrf2/HO-1 and SIRT1 signaling in CIS-treated rats.

Daphne genkwa flower extract promotes the neuroprotective effects of microglia

BACKGROUND

Microglia are innate immune cells in the central nervous system that play a crucial role in neuroprotection by releasing neurotrophic factors, removing pathogens through phagocytosis, and regulating brain homeostasis. The constituents extracted from the roots and stems of the Daphne genkwa plant have shown neuroprotective effects in an animal model of Parkinson's disease. However, the effect of Daphne genkwa plant extract on microglia has yet to be demonstrated.

PURPOSE

To study the anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects of Daphne genkwa flower extract (GFE) in microglia and explore the underlying mechanisms.

METHODS

In-vitro mRNA expression levels of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), inducible nitric oxide synthase, Arginase1, and brain derived neurotropic factor (BDNF) were analyzed by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction in microglia cells. Nitric oxide (NO) and TNF-α protein were respectively analyzed by Griess reagent and Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay. Immunoreactivity of Iba-1, Neu-N, and BDNF in mouse brain were analyzed by immunofluorescence staining. Phagocytosis capacity of microglia was examined using fluorescent zymosan-red particles.

RESULTS

GFE significantly inhibited lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced neuroinflammation and promoted neuroprotection both in vitro and in vivo. First, GFE inhibited the LPS-induced inflammatory factors NO, iNOS, and TNF-α in microglial cell lines and primary glial cells, thus demonstrating anti-inflammatory effects. Arginase1 and BDNF mRNA levels were increased in primary glial cells treated with GFE. Phagocytosis was also increased in microglia treated with GFE, suggesting a neuroprotective effect of GFE. In vivo, neuroprotective and anti-neuroinflammatory effects of GFE were also found in the mouse brain, as oral administration of GFE significantly inhibited LPS-induced neuronal loss and inflammatory activation of microglia.

CONCLUSION

GFE has anti-inflammatory effects and promotes microglial neuroprotective effects. GFE inhibited the pro-inflammatory mediators and enhanced neuroprotective microglia activity by increasing BDNF expression and phagocytosis. These novel findings of the GFE effect on microglia show an innovative approach that can potentially promote neuroprotection for the prevention of neurodegenerative diseases.

Traditional Use, Phytochemical Profiles and Pharmacological Properties of Artemisia Genus from Central Asia

The flora of Kazakhstan is characterized by its wide variety of different types of medicinal plants, many of which can be used on an industrial scale. The Traditional Kazakh Medicine (TKM) was developed during centuries based on the six elements of ancient Kazakh theory, associating different fields such as pharmacology, anatomy, pathology, immunology and food nursing as well as disease prevention. The endemic Artemisia L. species are potential sources of unique and new natural products and new chemical structures, displaying diverse bioactivities and leading to the development of safe and effective phytomedicines against prevailing diseases in Kazakhstan and the Central Asia region. This review provides an overview of Artemisia species from Central Asia, particularly traditional uses in folk medicine and the recent numerous phytochemical and pharmacological studies. The review is done by the methods of literature searches in well-known scientific websites (Scifinder and Pubmed) and data collection in university libraries. Furthermore, our aim is to search for promising and potentially active Artemisia species candidates, encouraging us to analyze Protein Tyrosine Phosphatase 1B (PTP1B), α-glucosidase and bacterial neuraminidase (BNA) inhibition as well as the antioxidant potentials of Artemisia plant extracts, in which endemic species have not been explored for their secondary metabolites and biological activities so far. The main result of the study was that, for the first time, the species Artemisia scopiformis Ledeb. Artemisia albicerata Krasch., Artemisia transiliensis Poljakov, Artemisia schrenkiana Ledeb., Artemisia nitrosa Weber and Artemisia albida Willd. ex Ledeb. due to their special metabolites, showed a high potential for α-glucosidase, PTP1B and BNA inhibition, which is associated with diabetes, obesity and bacterial infections. In addition, we revealed that the methanol extracts of Artemisia were a potent source of polyphenolic compounds. The total polyphenolic contents of Artemisia extracts were correlated with antioxidant potential and varied according to plant origin, the solvent of extraction and the analytical method used. Consequently, oxidative stress caused by reactive oxygen species (ROS) may be managed by the dietary intake of current Artemisia species. The antioxidant potentials of the species A. schrenkiana, A. scopaeformis, A. transiliensis and Artemisia scoparia Waldst. & Kitam. were also promising. In conclusion, the examination of details between different Artemisia species in our research has shown that plant materials are good as an antioxidant and eznyme inhibitory functional natural source.

Identification of Molecular Targets and Potential Mechanisms of Yinchen Wuling San Against Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma by Network Pharmacology and Molecular Docking

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) represents one of the most malignant and heterogeneous tumors, and the patients have low 5-year survival. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has been demonstrated as an effective complementary and/or alternative therapy for advanced malignancies including HNSCC. It has been noted that several herbs that are used for preparing Yinchen Wuling San (YWLS) have anti-tumor activities, whereas their mechanisms of action remain elusive. In this study, network pharmacology and molecular docking studies were employed to explore the underlying mechanisms of action of YWLS against HNSCC. The 58 active ingredients from six herbs used for YWLS and their 506 potential targets were screened from the traditional Chinese medicine systems pharmacology database and analysis platform (TCMSP) and SwissTargetPrediction database. A total of 2,173 targets associated with HNSCC were mainly identified from the DisGeNET and GeneCards databases. An active components-targets-disease network was constructed in the Cytoscape. Top 20 hub targets, such as AKT1, EGFR, TNF, ESR1, SRC, HSP90AA1, MAPK3, ERBB2, and CCND1, were identified by a degree in the protein–protein interaction (PPI) network. Gene functional enrichment analysis showed that PI3K-AKT, MAPK, Ras, TNF, and EGFR were the main signaling pathways of YWLS in treating HNSCC. There were 48 intersected targets such as EGFR, AKT1, and TNF that were associated with patients’ outcomes by the univariate Cox analysis, and most of them had increased expression in the tumor as compared to normal tissues. The area under curves of receiver operating characteristic indicated their diagnostic potential. Inhibition of these survival-related targets and/or combination with EGFR or AKT inhibitors were promising therapeutic options in HNSCC. The partial active components of YWLS exhibited good binding with the hub targets, and ADME analysis further evaluated the drug-likeness of the active components. These compounds and targets identified in this study might provide novel treatment strategies for HNSCC patients, and the subsequent work is essential to verify the underlying mechanisms of YWLS against HNSCC.

Genkwanin Prevents Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Inflammatory Bone Destruction and Ovariectomy-Induced Bone Loss

Objectives

The first objective of this study was to probe the effects of genkwanin (GKA) on osteoclast. The second goal of this study was to study whether GKA can protect lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and ovariectomized (OVX) induced bone loss.

Materials and Methods

Various concentrations of GKA (1 and 10 mg/kg) were injected into mice. Different concentrations of GKA (1 and 5 μM) were used to detect the effects of GKA on osteoclast and osteoblast.

Key Findings

GKA attenuated the osteoclast differentiation promoted by RANKL and expression of marker genes containing c-fos, ctsk as well as bone resorption related gene Trap and to the suppression of MAPK signaling pathway. In addition, GKA induced BMMs cell apoptosis in vitro. Moreover, GKA prevented LPS-induced and ovariectomized-induced bone loss in mice.

Conclusion

Our research revealed that GKA had a potential to be an effective therapeutic agent for osteoclast-mediated osteoporosis.

Controlled Release of Caffeic Acid and Pinocembrin by Use of nPSi-βCD Composites Improves Their Antiangiogenic Activity

Although polyphenols have great pharmacological potential, the main disadvantage is that they have low bioavailability at the desired site. Thus, the use of biocompatible systems for drug delivery is a strategy that is currently gaining great interest. The objective of this study is to evaluate the effect of microencapsulation of caffeic acid and pinocembrin on the antioxidant and antiangiogenic activity of both polyphenols, by the use of nPSi-βCD composite microparticles. For this HUVEC, cells were exposed to H₂O₂ and to treatments with polyphenols in solution and loaded in the composite microparticle. The polyphenols were incorporated into a microparticle using nanoporous silicon, chitosan and a β-cyclodextrin polymer as the biomaterial. The evaluation of the antiangiogenic effect of the treatments with polyphenols in solution and microencapsulated was carried out through functional tests, and the changes in the expression of target genes associated with the antioxidant pathway and angiogenesis was performed through qPCR. The results obtained show that the caffeic acid and pinocembrin have an antioxidant and antiangiogenic activity, both in solution as microencapsulated. In the caffeic acid, a greater biological effect was observed when it was incorporated into the nPSi-βCD composite microparticle. Our results suggest that the nPSi-βCD composite microparticle could be used as an alternative oral drug administration system.

The role of flavonoids in inhibiting IL-6 and inflammatory arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease that primarily affects the synovial joints. RA has well-known clinical manifestations and can cause progressive disability and premature death along with socioeconomic burdens. Interleukin-6 (IL-6) has been implicated in the pathology of RA where it can stimulate pannus formation, osteoclastogenesis, and oxidative stress. Flavonoids are plant metabolites with beneficial pharmacological effects, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antidiabetic, anticancer, and others. Flavonoids are polyphenolic compounds found in a variety of plants, vegetables, and fruits. Many flavonoids have demonstrated anti-arthritic activity mediated mainly through the suppression of pro-inflammatory cytokines. This review thoroughly discusses the accumulate data on the role of flavonoids on IL-6 in RA.

LncRNA Riken Attenuated Sevoflurane-Induced Neuroinflammation by Regulating the MicroRNA-101a/MKP-1/JNK Pathway

The induction of anesthesia in children makes its safety one of the most important global health problems. Neuroinflammation contributes to anesthesia-induced neurotoxicity in young individuals. However, the mechanisms underlying anesthesia-induced neurotoxicity have not been established. In this study, the level of interleukin (IL)-6 in the hippocampus of mice and N2A cells treated with sevoflurane was increased, and long noncoding RNA (LncRNA) Riken was sufficient to decrease sevoflurane-induced neurotoxicity, and the level of inflammatory cytokine IL-6. The RNA pull-down assay verified that miR-101a was bound to lncRNA Riken in N2A cells. In addition, miR-101a blocked the protective effect of lncRNA Riken on anesthesia-induced neuroinflammation. These data suggest that lncRNA Riken attenuated anesthesia-induced neuroinflammation by interacting with microRNA-101a. Finally, we also demonstrated that MAPK phosphatase 1 (MKP-1) was a downstream target of miR-101a, and lncRNA Riken can regulate the expression of MKP-1; the JNK signal transduction pathway has been implicated in sevoflurane-induced IL-6 secretion. Our findings demonstrated that lncRNA Riken alleviated the sevoflurane-induced neurotoxic effects, and the lncRNA Riken/miR-101a/MKP-1/JNK axis plays an important role in the cognitive disorder.

Recent research progress of Cirsium medicinal plants in China

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The species of the genus Cirsium have been used as traditional Chinese medicine for hundreds of years. It is believed that Cirsium has the efficacies of cooling blood and stopping bleeding, dispelling blood stasis, detoxifying and eliminating carbuncle. At present, they are mainly used in treatment of the hemoptysis, hematemesis, hemoptysis, hematuria, traumatic bleeding and Henoch-Schonlein purpura. They are widely used in traditional Chinese medicine.

AIM

This paper systematically collated the classification, traditional use, pharmacological action, phytochemistry and clinical application of Cirsium plants in the past ten years, intending to provide a critical appraisal of current knowledge for future in-depth study and rational development and utilization of Cirsium plants.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

This paper searched various databases (SciFinder, Science Direct, CNKI, Wiley online library, Spring Link, Web of Science, PubMed, Wanfang Data, Weipu Data), Chinese Pharmacopoeia 2020 Edition, Chinese Flora, Chinese Materia Medica and some local books on ethnopharmacology.

RESULTS

More than ten species of Cirsium have been used as folk medicine, and modern pharmacological studies have shown that Cirsium has the effects of protecting liver, antioxidation, anti-tumor, anti-inflammation, antibacterial, etc. More than 200 chemical constituents such as flavonoids, triterpenes, sterols, phenylpropanoids have been isolated from Cirsium. Some ingredients show a wide variety of bioactivities including hepatoprotective, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-tumor and other activities. At present, Cirsium medicinal plants, as traditional Chinese medicine, were mainly used to treat nephritis, Henoch-Schonlein purpura and hemorrhage, although some species used in folk lack of quality control systems.

CONCLUSION

Cirsium plants are a safe and effective medicine for cooling blood and hemostasis. Recent studies on pharmacology and phytochemistry also provide solid scientific evidences for the traditional application of this genus. It also shows significant hepatoprotective activity and may be a potential clinical candidate for the treatment of liver disease. However, the qualitative and quantitative analysis, pharmacokinetics-pharmacodynamics and mechanism of action also need in-depth study.

Caragana rosea Turcz Methanol Extract Inhibits Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Inflammatory Responses by Suppressing the TLR4/NF-κB/IRF3 Signaling Pathways

Caragana rosea Turcz, which belongs to the Leguminosae family, is a small shrub found in Northern and Eastern China that is known to possess anti-inflammatory properties and is used to treat fever, asthma, and cough. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms of its anti-inflammatory effects are unknown. Therefore, we used lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in RAW264.7 macrophages to investigate the molecular mechanisms that underlie the anti-inflammatory activities of a methanol extract of Caragana rosea (Cr-ME). We showed that Cr-ME reduced the production of nitric oxide (NO) and mRNA levels of iNOS, TNF-α, and IL-6 in a concentration-dependent manner. We also found that Cr-ME blocked MyD88- and TBK1-induced NF-κB and IRF3 promoter activity, suggesting that it affects multiple targets. Moreover, Cr-ME reduced the phosphorylation levels of IκBα, IKKα/β and IRF3 in a time-dependent manner and regulated the upstream NF-κB proteins Syk and Src, and the IRF3 protein TBK1. Upon overexpression of Src and TBK1, Cr-ME stimulation attenuated the phosphorylation of the NF-κB subunits p50 and p65 and IRF3 signaling. Together, our results suggest that the anti-inflammatory activity of Cr-ME occurs by inhibiting the NF-κB and IRF3 signaling pathways.

A periodic review of chemical and pharmacological profiles of Tubiechong as insect Chinese medicine

Tubiechong, in Chinese medicine, denotes the dried female insects of Eupolyphaga sinensis Walker (ESW) or Polyphaga plancyi Bolivar (PPB). As a traditional insect-type, in medicine, it has been historically utilized to treat bruises, fractures, amenorrhea, postpartum blood stasis, lumps and relieving pain. We herein have performed a systematic survey involving the chemical and biological studies in the past decades to reveal the value of such insect resources for their development and clinical utilization. Chemical studies indicated that Tubiechong generated many active compounds, including proteins, amino acids, peptides, fatty acids, alkaloids, nucleosides, polysaccharides, fat-soluble vitamins and mineral elements. Tubiechong or its extract has a wide range of activities including anticoagulation and anti-thrombosis, anti-tumor, antioxidant, immune regulation, blood lipid regulation and hepatoprotection. Finally, a periodic mini-review was conducted to summarize such chemical and pharmacological profiles of Tubiechong medicine. The active peptides in Tubiechong are majorly focused in this review and introduced as one important aspect since there is much literature and huge investigative interest in it. Traditional medical use of the insect was also stressed in this review associating with its disease-eliminating actions by promoting blood circulation or eliminating tissue-swelling pains, which might play important roles in anticancer practices or investigation. In accordance with the modern pharmacological progress, Tubiechong and its extracts indeed exerted antitumor actions through multiple pathways, such as interfering with tumor biological behaviors (growth, apoptosis, invasion, metastasis and angiogenesis), and regulating host immune function. To some extent, this knowledge would provide a basis for further research and application of Tubiechong medicine.

Propolis and Its Gastroprotective Effects on NSAID-Induced Gastric Ulcer Disease: A Systematic Review

Gastric ulcer disease induced by the consumption of NSAIDs is a major public health problem. The therapy used for its treatment causes adverse effects in the patient. Propolis is a natural product that has been used for the treatments of different diseases around the world. Nevertheless, there is little information about the activity of propolis in gastric ulcers caused by treatment with NSAIDs. Therefore, this review evaluates and compares the gastroprotective potential of propolis and its function against NSAID-induced gastric ulcers, for which a systematic search was carried out in the PubMed and ScienceDirect databases. The main criteria were articles that report the gastroprotective activity of propolis against the damage produced by NSAIDs in the gastric mucosa. Gastroprotection was related to the antioxidant, antisecretory, and cytoprotective effects, as well as the phenolic compounds present in the chemical composition of propolis. However, most of the studies used different doses of NSAIDs and propolis and evaluated different parameters. Propolis has proven to be a good alternative for the treatment of gastric ulcer disease. However, future studies should be carried out to identify the compounds responsible for these effects and to determine their potential use in people.

Genkwanin suppresses MPP+-induced cytotoxicity by inhibiting TLR4/MyD88/NLRP3 inflammasome pathway in a cellular model of Parkinson's disease

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a complicated multifactorial neurodegenerative disorder. Oxidative stress, neuroinflammatory response, and activation of apoptosis have been proposed to be tightly involved in the pathogenesis of PD. Genkwanin is a typical bioactive non-glycosylated flavonoid with anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant activities. However, the effect of genkwanin on PD remains unclear. Cell viability, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release, caspase-3/7 activity, and apoptosis was evaluated by MTT, LDH release assay, caspase-3/7 activity assay, and TUNEL assay, respectively. The secretion of prostaglandin E₂ (PGE₂), tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-1β, and IL-6 were measured by respective commercial ELISA kits. The mRNA expression of TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 was detected by qRT-PCR. The protein levels of cycloxygenase-2 (COX-2), toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MyD88), and NOD-like receptor (NLR) protein: 3 (NLRP3) were determined by western blot analysis. Genkwanin at concentrations less than 40 μM had no impact on cell viability and LDH release. Genkwanin suppressed MPP⁺-induced neuroinflammation in SH-SY5Y cells. MPP⁺ treatment inhibited cell viability, increased LDH release, apoptosis, and ROS generation, and reduced superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity in SH-SY5Y cells, which were abolished by genkwanin treatment. Genkwanin suppressed MPP⁺-induced activation of TLR4/MyD88/NLRP3 inflammasome pathway in SH-SY5Y cells. TLR4 overexpression weakened the anti-inflammatory and anti-neurotoxicity of genkwanin in SH-SY5Y cells. In conclusion, genkwanin attenuated neuroinflammation and neurotoxicity by inhibiting TLR4/MyD88/NLRP3 inflammasome pathway in MPP⁺-induced cellular model of PD.

A network pharmacology approach to uncover the key ingredients in Ginkgo Folium and their anti-Alzheimer's disease mechanisms

This study aimed to identify potential anti-Alzheimer’s disease (AD) targets and action mechanisms of Ginkgo Folium (GF) through a network pharmacology approach. Eighty-four potential targets of 10 active anti-AD ingredients of GF were identified, among which genkwanin (GK) had the greatest number of AD-related targets. KEGG pathway enrichment analysis showed that the most significantly enriched signaling pathway of GF against AD was Alzheimer disease (hsa05010). More importantly, 29 of the 84 targets were significantly correlated with tau, Aβ or both Aβ and tau pathology. In addition, GO analysis suggested that the main biological processes of GF in AD treatment were the regulation of chemical synaptic transmission (GO:0007268), neuron death (GO:0070997), amyloid-beta metabolic process (GO:0050435), etc. We further investigated the anti-AD effects of GK using N2A-APP cells (a classical cellular model of AD). Treatment N2A-APP cells with 100 μM GK for 48 h affected core targets related to tau pathology (such as CDK5 and GSK3β). In conclusion, these findings indicate that GF exerts its therapeutic effects on AD by acting directly on multiple pathological processes of AD.

Self-Nanoemulsifying Drug Delivery System of Genkwanin: A Novel Approach for Anti-Colitis-Associated Colorectal Cancer

PURPOSE

The aim of the present study was to develop an optimized Genkwanin (GKA)-loaded self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery system (SNEDDS) formulation to enhance the solubility, intestinal permeability, oral bioavailability and anti-colitis-associated colorectal cancer (CAC) activity of GKA.

METHODS

We designed a SNEDDS comprised oil phase, surfactants and co-surfactants for oral administration of GKA, the best of which were selected by investigating the saturation solubility, constructing pseudo-ternary phase diagrams, followed by optimizing thermodynamic stability, emulsification efficacy, self-nanoemulsification time, droplet size, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), drug release and intestinal permeability. In addition, the physicochemical properties and pharmacokinetics of GKA-SNEDDS were characterized, and its anti-colitis-associated colorectal cancer (CAC) activity and potential mechanisms were evaluated in AOM/DSS-induced C57BL/6J mice model.

RESULTS

The optimized nanoemulsion formula (OF) consists of Maisine CC, Labrasol ALF and Transcutol HP in a weight ratio of 20:60:20 (w/w/w), in which ratio the OF shows multiple improvements, specifically small mean droplet size, excellent stability, fast release properties as well as enhanced solubility and permeability. Pharmacokinetic studies demonstrated that compared with GKA suspension, the relative bioavailability of GKA-SNEDDS was increased by 353.28%. Moreover, GKA-SNEDDS not only significantly prevents weight loss and improves disease activity index (DAI) but also reduces the histological scores of inflammatory cytokine levels as well as inhibiting the formation of colon tumors via inducing tumor cell apoptosis in the AOM/DSS-induced CAC mice model.

CONCLUSION

Our results show that the developed GKA-SNEDDS exhibited enhanced oral bioavailability and excellent anti-CAC efficacy. In summary, GKA-SNEDDS, using lipid nanoparticles as the drug delivery carrier, can be applied as a potential drug delivery system for improving the clinical application of GKA.

Anti-Inflammatory Activity and Mechanism of Isookanin, Isolated by Bioassay-Guided Fractionation from Bidens pilosa L

Bidens pilosa L. (Asteraceae) has been used historically in traditional Asian medicine and is known to have a variety of biological effects. However, the specific active compounds responsible for the individual pharmacological effects of Bidens pilosa L. (B. pilosa) extract have not yet been made clear. This study aimed to investigate the anti-inflammatory phytochemicals obtained from B. pilosa. We isolated a flavonoids-type phytochemical, isookanin, from B. pilosa through bioassay-guided fractionation based on its capacity to inhibit inflammation. Some of isookanin’s biological properties have been reported; however, the anti-inflammatory mechanism of isookanin has not yet been studied. In the present study, we evaluated the anti-inflammatory activities of isookanin using lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages. We have shown that isookanin reduces the production of proinflammatory mediators (nitric oxide, prostaglandin E₂) by inhibiting the expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) in LPS-stimulated macrophages. Isookanin also inhibited the expression of activator protein 1 (AP-1) and downregulated the LPS-induced phosphorylation of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and c-jun NH₂-terminal kinase (JNK) in the MAPK signaling pathway. Additionally, isookanin inhibited proinflammatory cytokines (tumor necrosis factor-a (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-8 (IL-8), and interleukin-1β (IL-1β)) in LPS-induced THP-1 cells. These results demonstrate that isookanin could be a potential therapeutic candidate for inflammatory disease.

Inhibitory effect of flavonoid xanthomicrol on triple-negative breast tumor via regulation of cancer-associated microRNAs

Breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in women worldwide. Due to the side effects of current chemo-reagents on healthy tissues, it is essential to search for alternative compounds with less toxicity and better efficacy. In the present study, we have investigated the anticancer effects of flavonoid xanthomicrol on the mice breast cancer model using MTT assay, cell cycle and Annexin/PI analysis, colony formation assay, H&E staining, immunohistochemistry, and miRNA analysis. Our results demonstrated that xanthomicrol decreased the cell viability and clonogenic capability, induced G1-arrest and apoptosis in the breast cancer cells in vitro, and caused a significant reduction in the volume and weight of mice tumors in vivo. In addition, xanthomicrol reduced the expression of TNFα, VEGF, MMP9, and Ki67, while upregulating the expression of apoptotic markers such as Bax, caspase3, and caspase9. Finally, the expression of miR21, miR27, and miR125, known as oncomirs, decreased significantly after xanthomicrol administration, while the expression of miR29 and miR34, functioning as tumor suppressors, increased significantly (p < .001). Our data demonstrated that xanthomicrol can induce apoptosis and suppress angiogenesis in breast cancer cells due to its inhibitory effect on oncomirs and its stimulatory effect on tumor suppressor miRNAs.

Origin and Function of Stress-Induced IL-6 in Murine Models

Acute psychological stress has long been known to decrease host fitness to inflammation in a wide variety of diseases, but how this occurs is incompletely understood. Using mouse models, we show that interleukin-6 (IL-6) is the dominant cytokine inducible upon acute stress alone. Stress-inducible IL-6 is produced from brown adipocytes in a beta-3-adrenergic-receptor-dependent fashion. During stress, endocrine IL-6 is the required instructive signal for mediating hyperglycemia through hepatic gluconeogenesis, which is necessary for anticipating and fueling "fight or flight" responses. This adaptation comes at the cost of enhancing mortality to a subsequent inflammatory challenge. These findings provide a mechanistic understanding of the ontogeny and adaptive purpose of IL-6 as a bona fide stress hormone coordinating systemic immunometabolic reprogramming. This brain-brown fat-liver axis might provide new insights into brown adipose tissue as a stress-responsive endocrine organ and mechanistic insight into targeting this axis in the treatment of inflammatory and neuropsychiatric diseases.

Anti-rheumatoid arthritis effects of flavonoids from Daphne genkwa

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to select the most effective anti-Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) component of flavonoids from Daphne genkwa Sieb. et Zucc. by anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects in vitro, and to elucidate the mechanism.

METHODS

The anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects of total flavonoids (TF) and four flavonoid components (genkwanin, hydroxygenkwanin, luteolin and apigenin) were determined by pharmacological approach in LPS-induced RAW 264.7 macrophages and ConA-induced T lymphocytes. Principal component analysis (PCA) was used to obtain the optimal anti-RA component in vitro. Western blot and real-time quantitative PCR (q-PCR) were used to explore the mechanisms. Finally, the in vitro anti-RA effect was verified by human rheumatoid arthritis fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLSs).

RESULTS

TF and four flavonoids significantly reduced the expressions of NO, iNOS, TNF-α, IL-6, IFN-γ and IL-2. PCA showed that genkwanin was the most effective anti-RA component in vitro. Genkwanin inhibited nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) pathway by decreasing the phosphorylation levels of IKK, IκB and NF-κB, and down-regulated the expressions of iNOS, COX-2 and IL-6 mRNA. Genkwanin also inhibited the abnormal proliferation of FLSs and down-regulated the secretions of NO and IL-6.

CONCLUSION

The most effective anti-RA component was genkwanin. Genkwanin exerts anti-RA effect through down-regulating the activation of NF-κB pathway and mRNA expressions of inflammatory mediators, and also by inhibiting the abnormal proliferation of FLSs and its NO and IL-6 secretion levels.

Identification of potential anticancer phytochemicals against colorectal cancer by structure-based docking studies

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common malignancy among both the genders globally. Therefore, searching of new therapeutic options is utmost priority. Molecular docking is a widely used tool in drug discovery to identify potential new therapeutic targets. Molecular docking plays a vital role in the visualization of ligand-protein interaction at an atomic level and enhancing our understanding of the ligand behavior thus aiding in the structure-based drug designing. Selected phytochemicals with potential anticancer activities were examined for their binding affinities to the selected VEGFR and EGFR receptors. The receptor protein 3D structures were obtained from Protein Data Bank, and the molecular docking was performed using UCSF Chimera software with its AutoDock Vina tool. Out of 18 compounds screened, Yuanhuanin, Theaflavin, and Genistein have shown highest binding energies. Findings of this study should be further evaluated for their potential use in CRC treatment, management, and prevention.

Canscora lucidissima, a Chinese folk medicine, exerts anti-inflammatory activities by inhibiting the phosphorylation of ERK1/2 in LPS-activated macrophages

Background

Canscora lucidissima (Levl. & Vaniot) Hand.-Mazz. (C. lucidissima), mainly distributed in southern China, has been shown to be effective in the treatment of inflammatory diseases. However, the underlying mechanism of its anti-inflammatory effect is not fully understood.

Methods

In this study, we investigated the anti-inflammatory mechanism of ethanol extract of C. lucidissima (Cl-EE) in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammatory models. ELISA, real-time PCR, Western blot and luciferase reporter assay were used for the experiments in vitro, and ICR mouse endotoxemia model was used for in vivo test.

Results

Our data showed that Cl-EE reduced the production of NO by down-regulating the mRNA and protein expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) in LPS-activated RAW 264.7 cells. Meanwhile, it potently decreased other proinflammatory mediators, such as TNF-α, IL-6, MCP-1 and IL-1β at the transcriptional and translational levels. Further study indicated that Cl-EE did not affect NF-κB signaling pathway but significantly suppressed the phosphorylation of ERK1/2, rather than JNK or p38. In a LPS-induced endotoxemia mouse model, a single intraperitoneal injection of Cl-EE (75–300 mg/kg) could lower circulatory TNF-α, IL-6 and MCP-1 levels.

Conclusions

Collectively, our results indicated that Cl-EE suppressed the phosphorylation level of ERK1/2 thus reducing the transcription and translation of inflammatory genes, thereby exerted anti-inflammatory activity. This study reveals the anti-inflammatory mechanism of C. lucidissima and may provide an effective treatment option for a variety of inflammatory diseases.

Long noncoding RNA MEG3 deteriorates inflammatory damage by downregulating microRNA-101a

Valvulopathy is a familiar heart disease, which fearfully harms the health of the body. We studied the effects and mechanism of long noncoding RNA maternally expressed gene 3 (lncMEG3) on MVICs cell in inflammatory damage. Cell Counting Kit-8 and flow cytometry were respectively used to detect the effect of tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), MEG3 and microRNA (miR)-101a on cell viability and apoptosis. Moreover, MEG3 and miR-101a expression were changed by cell transfection and investigated by reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Furthermore, Western blot was used to investigate the levels of Bax, pro-caspase-3, cleaved-caspase-3, pro-caspase-9, cleaved-caspase-9, interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6 and related-proteins of cell pathways. Otherwise, the levels of IL-1β and IL-6 were also investigated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kit. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) was examined by ROS assay. We found TNF-α caused inflammatory damage and upregulated MEG3. MEG3 was overexpressed and silenced in cells. Besides, MEG3 deteriorated inflammatory damage. Furthermore, MEG3 negatively regulated miR-101a and miR-101a mimic could reverse the effect of pc-MEG3. Besides, MEG3 enhanced the JNK and NF-κB pathways by downregulating miR-101a. In conclusion, MEG3 deteriorated cell inflammatory damage by downregulating miR-101a via JNK and NF-κB pathways.

Genkwanin ameliorates adjuvant-induced arthritis in rats through inhibiting JAK/STAT and NF-κB signaling pathways

BACKGROUND

Genkwanin is a flavone isolated from the traditional Chinese herb Daphne genkwa. Our previous work proved that four flavonoids (including genkwanin) isolated from D. genkwa (FFD) significantly improved the symptoms of arthritis in rat models. Recent studies have revealed that genkwanin exhibited anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory activities, both of which were closely related to the pathology of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Therefore, studying the anti-RA effects and mechanisms of genkwanin may give us insight into FFD's therapeutic effects on RA.

PURPOSE

This study aimed to investigate the anti-rheumatoid arthritis activity of genkwanin on adjuvant-induced arthritis (AIA) model in rats and explore the underlying mechanisms.

METHODS

The anti-rheumatoid arthritis activity of genkwanin was evaluated on AIA rat model by determining the paw swelling degrees and arthritis index scores, along with histopathological analysis of joint tissues. The serum cytokine levels were measured by ELISA method, and serum NO levels were measured by Griess method. The expression and phosphorylation levels of proteins in JAK/STAT and NF-κB signaling pathways were determined by western blot analysis and immunohistochemistry analysis.

RESULTS

Genkwanin significantly decreased the paw swelling and arthritis index in AIA rats and also decreased the inflammation and bone destruction in joint tissues. The serum TNF-α, IL-6, and NO concentrations were markedly reduced while the IL-10 concentration was markedly increased with the treatment of genkwanin. Genkwanin inhibited the activation of JAK/STAT and NF-κB signaling pathways in synovial tissues of AIA rats.

CONCLUSION

Genkwanin exerted anti-rheumatoid arthritis effects on AIA rats through inhibiting the activation of JAK/STAT and NF-κB signaling pathways. The results obtained in this work lead us to suggest that Genkwanin could play a crucial role on the previously demonstrated anti-rheumatoid arthritis activity of flavonoid extract of D. genkwa (namely FFD).

Characterization and Structural Analysis of Genkwanin, a Natural Product from Callicarpa americana

The natural compound Genkwanin (systematic name: 5-hydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-7-methoxychromen-4-one) C16H12O5 (1) is a non-glycosylated flavonoid isolated from Callicarpa americana. Microcrystals of Genkwanin were prepared by slow evaporation of a methanol solution under low temperature conditions. The structure of 1 was determined based on spectroscopic analyses, one-dimensional NMR, HRESIMS and was confirmed by single-crystal X-ray diffraction. The crystals grow as very thin needles with an extremely high aspect ratio and with the long axis (along the y-axis) corresponding to the very short unit cell b-axis. There are two independent molecules in the asymmetric unit with two different conformations and modes of packing in the crystal. One molecule has a higher degree on non-planarity than the other. The short stacking distance and separation between the molecules implies a high degree of co-planarity consistent with a conjugated system. The crystal structure is non-centrosymmetric but achiral.

Use of nPSi-βCD Composite Microparticles for the Controlled Release of Caffeic Acid and Pinocembrin, Two Main Polyphenolic Compounds Found in a Chilean Propolis

Propolis is widely recognized for its various therapeutic properties. These are attributed to its rich composition in polyphenols, which exhibit multiple biological properties (e.g., antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-angiogenic). Despite its multiple benefits, oral administration of polyphenols results in low bioavailability at the action site. An alternative to face this problem is the use of biomaterials at nano-micro scale due to its high versatility as carriers and delivery systems of various drugs and biomolecules. The aim of this work is to determine if nPSi-βCD microparticles are a suitable material for the load and controlled release of caffeic acid (CA) and pinocembrin (Pin), two of the main components of a Chilean propolis with anti-atherogenic and anti-angiogenic activity. Polyphenols and nPSi-βCD microparticles cytocompatibility studies were carried out with human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). Results from physicochemical characterization demonstrated nPSi-βCD microparticles successfully retained and controlled release CA and Pin. Furthermore, nPSi-βCD microparticles presented cytocompatibility with HUVECs culture at concentrations of 0.25 mg/mL. These results suggest that nPSi-βCD microparticles could safely be used as an alternate oral delivery system to improve controlled release and bioavailability of CA or Pin-and eventually other polyphenols-thus enhancing its therapeutic effect for the treatment of different diseases.

Systems Pharmacology Dissection of Multi-Scale Mechanisms of Action of Huo-Xiang-Zheng-Qi Formula for the Treatment of Gastrointestinal Diseases

Multi-components Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) treats various complex diseases (multi-etiologies and multi-symptoms) via herbs interactions to exert curative efficacy with less adverse effects. However, the ancient Chinese compatibility theory of herbs formula still remains ambiguous. Presently, this combination principle is dissected through a systems pharmacology study on the mechanism of action of a representative TCM formula, Huo-xiang-zheng-qi (HXZQ) prescription, on the treatment of functional dyspepsia (FD), a chronic or recurrent clinical disorder of digestive system, as typical gastrointestinal (GI) diseases which burden human physical and mental health heavily and widely. In approach, a systems pharmacology platform which incorporates the pharmacokinetic and pharmaco-dynamics evaluation, target fishing and network pharmacological analyses is employed. As a result, 132 chemicals and 48 proteins are identified as active compounds and FD-related targets, and the mechanism of HXZQ formula for the treatment of GI diseases is based on its three function modules of anti-inflammation, immune protection and gastrointestinal motility regulation mainly through four, i.e., PIK-AKT, JAK-STAT, Toll-like as well as Calcium signaling pathways. In addition, HXZQ formula conforms to the ancient compatibility rule of "Jun-Chen-Zuo-Shi" due to the different, while cooperative roles that herbs possess, specifically, the direct FD curative effects of GHX (serving as Jun drug), the anti-bacterial efficacy and major accompanying symptoms-reliving bioactivities of ZS and BZ (as Chen), the detoxication and ADME regulation capacities of GC (as Shi), as well as the minor symptoms-treating efficacy of the rest 7 herbs (as Zuo). This work not only provides an insight of the therapeutic mechanism of TCMs on treating GI diseases from a multi-scale perspective, but also may offer an efficient way for drug discovery and development from herbal medicine as complementary drugs.

Rhamnocitrin isolated from Prunus padus var. seoulensis: A potent and selective reversible inhibitor of human monoamine oxidase A

Three flavanones and two flavones were isolated from the leaves of Prunus padus var. seoulensis by the activity-guided screening for new monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors. Among the compounds isolated, rhamnocitrin (5) was found to potently and selectively inhibit human MAO-A (hMAO-A, IC₅₀ = 0.051 µM) and effectively inhibit hMAO-B (IC₅₀ = 2.97 µM). The IC₅₀ value of 5 for hMAO-A was the lowest amongst all natural flavonoids reported to date, and the potency was 20.2 times higher than that of toloxatone (1.03 µM), a marketed drug. In addition, 5 reversibly and competitively inhibited hMAO-A and hMAO-B with K_i values of 0.030 and 0.91 µM, respectively. Genkwanin (4) was also observed to strongly inhibit hMAO-A and hMAO-B (IC₅₀ = 0.14 and 0.35 µM, respectively), and competitively inhibit hMAO-A and hMAO-B (K_i = 0.097 and 0.12 µM, respectively). Molecular docking simulation reveals that the binding affinity of 5 with hMAO-A (-18.49 kcal/mol) is higher than that observed with hMAO-B (0.19 kcal/mol). Compound 5 interacts with hMAO-A at four possible residues (Asn181, Gln215, Thr336, and Tyr444), while hMAO-B forms a single hydrogen bond at Glu84. These findings suggest that compound 5 as well as 4 can be considered as novel potent and reversible hMAO-A and/or hMAO-B inhibitors or useful lead compounds for future development of hMAO inhibitors in neurological disorder therapies.

Sinomenine inhibits lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammatory injury by regulation of miR-101/MKP-1/JNK pathway in keratinocyte cells

OBJECTIVE

Recent studies have demonstrated that Sinomenine (SIN) exerted anti-inflammatory effect in various immune-related diseases. However, the effect of SIN on glucocorticoids dermatitis has not been investigated. In our study, we aimed to explore the effect of SIN on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammatory injury in HaCaT cells.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We constructed an inflammatory injury model of LPS-induced HaCaT cells, then SIN was added to LPS-treated cells, cell viability, apoptosis, apoptosis-associated factors and inflammatory cytokines were detected by CCK-8, flow cytometry, western blot, qRT-PCR and ELISA. Subsequently, miR-101 mimic and mimic control were transfected into HaCaT cells to investigate the effect of SIN and miR-101 on LPS-induced cells injury. Furthermore, MKP-1 and JNK signal pathways were measured by qRT-PCR and western blot. Finally, the animal experiment was performed to further clarify the effect of SIN on inflammatoty injury.

RESULTS

LPS suppressed cell viability, promoted apoptosis and increased IL-6, IL-8 and TNF-α expressions and secretions in HaCaT cells. SIN significantly alleviated LPS-induced HaCaT cells injury. Additionally, SIN down-regulated miR-101 expression, and the protective effect of SIN on LPS-induced inflammatory injury was abolished by miR-101 overexpression. Besides, SIN promoted MKP-1 expression by down-regulation of miR-101, and SIN inhibited JNK signal pathway by up-regulation of MKP-1 expression in LPS-treated HaCaT cells. Animal experiments revealed that SIN exhibited anti-inflammatory effects in vivo.

CONCLUSIONS

The data indicated that SIN attenuated LPS-induced inflammatory injury by regulation of miR-101, MKP-1 and JNK pathway. These findings might provide a novel method for treatment of glucocorticoids dermatitis.

Macrophage migration inhibitory factor antagonist (S,R)3‑(4‑hydroxyphenyl)‑4,5‑dihydro‑5‑isoxazole acetic acid methyl ester attenuates inflammation and lung injury in rats with acute pancreatitis in pregnancy

Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) is an inflammatory cytokine involved in many acute and chronic inflammatory diseases. However, its role in acute lung injury associated with acute pancreatitis in pregnancy (APIP) has not yet been elucidated. The present study was undertaken to clarify the effect and potential mechanism of MIF antagonist (S,R)3‑(4‑hydroxyphenyl)‑4,5‑dihydro‑5‑isoxazole acetic acid methyl ester (ISO‑1) in the development of acute lung injury in rats with APIP. Eighteen late‑gestation SD rats were randomly assigned to three groups: Sham operation (SO) group, APIP group, and ISO‑1 group. All the rats were sacrificed 6 h after modeling. The severity of pancreatitis was evaluated by serum amylase (AMY), lipase (LIPA), tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‑α, interleukin (IL)‑1β and IL‑6 and assessing the histopathological score. Lung injury was determined by performing histology and inflammatory cell infiltration investigations. Western blot analysis was used to detect the protein expression of MIF, phosphorylated and total P38 and nuclear factor‑κB (NF‑κB) protein in lungs. The results showed that MIF was upregulated in the lung of APIP rats. Compared with APIP group, the intervention of ISO‑1 alleviated the pathological injury of the pancreas and lungs, decreased serum AMY and LIPA, attenuated serum concentrations of TNF‑α, IL‑1β, and IL‑6, reduced the number of MPO‑positive cells in the lung and inhibited the activation of P38MAPK and NF‑κB. These results suggest that MIF is activated in lung injury induced by APIP. Furhtermore, the present findings indicate that the MIF antagonist ISO‑1 has a protective effect on lung injury and inflammation, which may be associated with deactivating the P38MAPK and NF‑κB signaling pathway.

Saccharum Alhagi polysaccharide-1 and -2 promote the immunocompetence of RAW264.7 macrophages in vitro

The in vitro immune activities of Saccharum Alhagi polysaccharides (SAP) have been previously studied. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of SAP-1 and SAP-2 on the activity of RAW264.7 mouse macrophages. RAW264.7 cells were treated with 150, 300 and 600 mg/l concentrations of SAP-1 (a 50% alcohol precipitation) and SAP-2 (an 80% alcohol precipitation) or with 10 mg/l lipopolysaccharide. Untreated cells were used as a negative control. An MTT assay was used to detect the proliferation of the cells, and Hoechst 33528 staining was conducted in order to visualize the cell nuclei. Additionally, the Griess method was used to measure nitric oxide (NO) levels. A neutral red uptake assay was performed to determine the phagocytic activity of the macrophages, and ELISAs were performed to detect cytokine levels. Furthermore, reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction was used to measure the mRNA expression of certain cytokines. The results demonstrated that SAP increased the proliferative activity and activated the immune function of RAW264.7 cells, and was lacking in cytotoxicity. In addition, SAP-1 exhibited a stronger effect in promoting RAW264.7 cell proliferation than did SAP-2. Furthermore, SAP-1 and SAP-2 significantly increased the level of NO, with the effect of SAP-1 being stronger than that of SAP-2. SAP-1 increased the phagocytic activity of RAW264.7 cells and promoted the secretion of the cytokines interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-2 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α by RAW264.7 cells, with an effect that was stronger than that of SAP-2. Finally, different concentrations of SAP-1 or SAP-2 had distinct effects in upregulating the expression of TNF-α, IL-1β, nuclear factor-κB and inducible nitric oxide synthase mRNA. The results of the present study demonstrate that SAP is capable of enhancing the immune activity of mouse macrophages.

Genkwanin nanosuspensions: a novel and potential antitumor drug in breast carcinoma therapy

Recently, genkwanin (GKA) has been shown to display in vitro antitumor activity against some cancer cells, but its poor solubility restricted the in vivo study and further investigation of its antitumor therapeutic efficacy. In this paper, genkwanin nanosuspensions (GKA-NSps) were successfully prepared using D-alpha tocopherol acid polyethylene glycol succinate (TPGS) as a stabilizer using the precipitation-homogenization method. The obtained GKA-NSps had an average particle size of 183.1 ± 4.4 nm, a PDI value of 0.16 ± 0.07, a zeta potential of −16.2 ± 0.1 mV, and a drug loading content of 49.36 ± 0.14%. GKA-NSps showed spherical morphology and very good stability in normal saline, phosphate buffer saline (PBS, pH 7.4), 5% glucose, artificial gastric juice, artificial intestinal juice and plasma; thus, it is suitable for both oral and intravenous administration. The resultant GKA-NSps displayed sustained drug release behavior and stronger in vitro cytotoxicity against 4T1, MCF-7, MDA-MB-453, HeLa, HepG2, BT474, and A549 cells than free GKA. The in vivo study in MCF-7 tumor-bearing nude mice indicated that GKA-NSps (60 mg/kg, i.v.) achieved similar therapeutic efficacy as PTX injection (8 mg/kg, i.v.) (62.09% vs. 61.27%), while the minimal lethal dose was more than 320 mg/kg, indicating good safety. By using nanotechnology, our study suggested that some antitumor flavonoids of low potency, such as GKA, are promising as safe but effective anticancer drugs.

Nasunin inhibits the lipopolysaccharide-induced pro-inflammatory mediator production in RAW264 mouse macrophages by suppressing ROS-mediated activation of PI3 K/Akt/NF-κB and p38 signaling pathways

Nasunin is a major anthocyanin in eggplant peel. The purpose of this study was to examine the anti-inflammatory effects of nasunin in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW264 macrophages and to identify the molecular mechanisms underlying these effects. We found that nasunin reduced the LPS-induced secretion of tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-6 and nitric oxide, and expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase in a dose-dependent manner. Nasunin diminished LPS-induced nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) activation by suppressing the degradation of inhibitor of κB-α and nuclear translocation of p65 subunit of NF-κB. Nasunin also attenuated the phosphorylation of Akt and p38, signaling molecules involved in pro-inflammatory mediator production. Moreover, nasunin inhibited the intracellular accumulation of ROS, leading to the suppression of NF-κB activation, Akt and p38 phosphorylation, and subsequent pro-inflammatory mediator production. These findings suggest that nasunin exerts an anti-inflammatory effect and this effect is mediated, at least in part, by its antioxidant activity.

Obacunone causes sustained expression of MKP-1 thus inactivating p38 MAPK to suppress pro-inflammatory mediators through intracellular MIF

Obacunone (OBA) is a highly oxygenated triterpenoid with various pharmacological activities. In this study, we explored its anti-inflammatory effect and underlying mechanisms in LPS-activated macrophages. Our data showed that OBA potently decreased pro-inflammatory mediators (eg, NO, IL-6, IL-1β, and MCP-1) at the transcriptional and translational levels without cytotoxicity. A mechanism study showed that OBA significantly suppressed p38-mediated AP-1 signaling by stabilizing the mRNA of mitogen-activated protein kinase phosphatase 1 (MKP-1), thus prolonging the expression time of the MKP-1 protein. Next, we used computational target-fishing technology to predict the possible target of OBA. Only one potential target, macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF), was presented. Experimentally, the interaction between OBA and MIF was also confirmed. By using an anti-mouse MIF antibody, extracellular MIF (exMIF) was neutralized. Our results showed that autocrine MIF had slight influence on the pro-inflammatory mediator production. Correspondingly, the anti-inflammatory activity of OBA was also not affected. Accordingly, we knocked down the MIF gene in RAW 264.7 cells and obtained stable MIF deficient cells MIF(-), in which the effects of OBA on p38 phosphorylation, AP-1 activation, and pro-inflammatory mediator production in response to LPS nearly disappeared. In contrast to MIF(+) cells, the MKP-1 protein expression time of the MIF(-) cells was markedly prolonged. We conclude that OBA exerts its anti-inflammatory effect by targeting intracellular MIF (inMIF) inhibition to regulate the MKP-1/p38/AP-1 pathway. Our findings also provide a chain of evidence that the inhibition of inMIF, rather than exMIF, may become a novel target for inflammation.

MicroRNA-101a regulates microglial morphology and inflammation

BACKGROUND

Microglia, as well as other tissue-resident macrophages, arise from yolk sac progenitors. Thus, it is likely that the central nervous system environment is critical for the acquisition of a distinct microglial phenotype. Several microRNAs that are enriched in the brain play crucial roles in brain development and may also play a role in the differentiation of microglia.

METHODS

To track the differentiation of hematopoietic cells into microglia, lineage-negative bone marrow cells were co-cultured with astrocytes in the absence or presence of microRNAs or their inhibitors. Microglia-like cells were identified as small, round cells that were immunopositive for CD11b, Iba1, CX3CR1, and triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells (TREM)-2.

RESULTS

Five microRNAs (miR-101a, miR-139-3p, miR-214^*, miR-218, and miR-1186) were identified as modifiers of the differentiation of bone marrow-derived microglia-like cells. Among them, miR-101a facilitated the differentiation of bone marrow cells into microglia-like cells most potently. Small, round cells expressing CD11b, Iba1, CX3CR1, and TREM-2 were predominant in cells treated by miR-101a. miR-101a was abundantly expressed in non-microglial brain cells. Transfection of miR-101a into microglia significantly increased the production of IL-6 in response to LPS. Finally, miR-101a downregulated the expression of MAPK phosphatase-1.

CONCLUSIONS

miR-101a, which is enriched in the brain, promotes the differentiation of bone marrow cells into microglia-like cells.