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Singh N, Brown AN, Gold MH. Snail extract for skin: A review of uses, projections, and limitations. J Cosmet Dermatol 2024; 23:1113-1121. [PMID: 38429932 DOI: 10.1111/jocd.16269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 02/17/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Snail mucin is becoming increasingly popular for its wide range of ingredients and potential benefits. Snail extract's widespread appearance in cosmetic formulations encourages an investigation into the medical and cosmetic benefits. AIMS This study aims to explore current literature on the variety of snail mucin applications. Specifically, we present a review of the uses, global market estimates and projects, and limitations to snail mucin. METHODS A literature search was conducted on PubMed reviewing snail mucin and their application in medical and dermatologic fields examining their uses. Economic reports were also investigated for Global Market estimates. RESULTS The therapeutic use of snail mucin in medical fields has been studied as antimicrobial agents, drug delivery vehicles, antitumor agents, wound healing agents, and biomaterial coatings among others. Additionally, the use in cosmetic fields includes antiaging, hydrating, anti-acne, scarring, and hyperpigmentation treatments. It is important to highlight that most studies conducted were preclinical or small clinical studies, stressing the need for additional large-scale clinical trials to support these claims. Investigations into the global market found estimates ranging from $457 million to $1.2 billion with upward projections in the upcoming decade. Limitations include ethical habitats for collection, allergy investigation, and missing clinical studies. CONCLUSIONS The findings presented here emphasize the expanding uses of snail mucin and its ingredients alongside a growing market cosmetic industry should consider. We also emphasize the need for appropriate clinical trials into the stated benefits of snail mucin to ensure consumer safety and ethical extraction of mucin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nupur Singh
- University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Angela N Brown
- Gold Skin Care Center, Tennessee Clinical Research Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Michael H Gold
- Gold Skin Care Center, Tennessee Clinical Research Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
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2
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Kandeil MA, Mona MM. Evaluation of antioxidant, antityrosinase, and anticancer activity of mucus extract from both Egyptian land snails, Eremina desertorum and Helix aspersa, with emphasis on their chemical profiles. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL ZOOLOGY. PART A, ECOLOGICAL AND INTEGRATIVE PHYSIOLOGY 2024; 341:182-192. [PMID: 38155516 DOI: 10.1002/jez.2773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Revised: 10/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 12/30/2023]
Abstract
The snail mucus provides several functions and is increasingly being exploited for medicinal and cosmetic purposes. This study aimed to determine the chemical profile of two snail mucus extracts: the garden snail (Helix aspersa) and the desert snail (Eremina desertorum). In addition, it elucidates the antityrosinase, antioxidant, and anticancer activities against the human cancer cell line epithelioid carcinoma (Hela). The mucus was extracted from the pedal glands of garden snails (H. aspersa) and desert snails (E. desertorum). 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl assay and the content of catalase, glutathione-S-transferase, superoxide dismutase, and reduced glutathione were utilized to assess the antioxidative screening activity of the mucus extracts. Besides a tyrosinase inhibitor assay, anticancer activity on cervical cancer cells (Hela) was studied. Additionally, the two mucus samples' total protein, total lipid, fatty acid, and amino acid profiles were compared. The mucus from both snails exhibited antioxidant activity. E. desertorum is more effective in inhibiting tyrosinase activity and has better scavenging activity than H. aspersa mucus extract. Both extracts revealed inhibitory activity against Hela cells, with insignificant differences. Moreover, the results indicated higher protein, lipids, and fatty acids mucus content of E. desertorum extract than those of H. aspersa mucus extract. Both snail slimes' obtained different biological activities, and amino acid contents could be related to their specific functions and beneficial for medical applications, especially antihyperpigmentation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manar A Kandeil
- Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
| | - Mahy M Mona
- Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
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3
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Moon SK, Jeong EJ, Tonog G, Jin CM, Lee JS, Kim H. Comprehensive workflow encompassing discovery, verification, and quantification of indicator peptide in snail mucin using LC-quadrupole Orbitrap high-resolution tandem mass spectrometry. Food Res Int 2024; 180:114054. [PMID: 38395548 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodres.2024.114054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2023] [Revised: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Abstract
Peptidomics analysis was conducted using high-resolution tandem mass spectrometry (MS2) to determine the peptide profile of snail-derived mucin extract (SM). The study was also aimed to identify an indicator peptide and validate a quantification method for this peptide. The peptide profiling and identification were conducted using discovery-based peptidomics analysis employing data-dependent acquisition, whereas the selected peptides were verified and quantified using parallel reaction monitoring acquisition. Among the 16 identified peptides, the selected octapeptide (TEAPLNPK) was quantified via precursor ion ionization (m/z 435.2400), followed by quantification of the corresponding quantifier ion fragment (m/z 639.3824) using MS2. The quantification method was optimized and validated in terms of specificity, linearity, accuracy, precision, and limit of detection/quantification. The validated method accurately quantified the TEAPLNPK content in the SM as 7.5 ± 0.2 μg/g. Our study not only identifies an indicator peptide from SM but also introduces a novel validation method, involving precursor ion ionization and quantification of specific fragments. Our findings may serve as a comprehensive workflow for the monitoring, selection, and quantification of indicator peptides from diverse food resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sung-Kwon Moon
- Department of Food and Nutrition, Chung-Ang University, 4726 Seodong-daero, Daedeok-myeon, Anseong 17546, South Korea
| | - Eun-Jin Jeong
- Department of Integrated Biomedical and Life Sciences, Korea University, 145 Anam-ro, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 02841, South Korea; BK21 FOUR R&E Center for Learning Health Systems, Korea University, 145 Anam-ro, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 02841, South Korea
| | - Genevieve Tonog
- Department of Food and Nutrition, Chung-Ang University, 4726 Seodong-daero, Daedeok-myeon, Anseong 17546, South Korea
| | - Cheng-Min Jin
- Analysis and Research Department, NeuroVIS, Inc., 593-8 Dongtangiheung-ro, Hwaseong 18469, South Korea
| | - Jeong-Seok Lee
- Age at Labs Inc., 55, Digital-ro 32-gil, Guro-gu, Seoul 08379, South Korea
| | - Hoon Kim
- Department of Food and Nutrition, Chung-Ang University, 4726 Seodong-daero, Daedeok-myeon, Anseong 17546, South Korea.
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4
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Zhu K, Zhang Z, Li G, Sun J, Gu T, Ain NU, Zhang X, Li D. Extraction, structure, pharmacological activities and applications of polysaccharides and proteins isolated from snail mucus. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 258:128878. [PMID: 38141709 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.128878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Revised: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/25/2023]
Abstract
Snail mucus had medical applications for wound healing as early as ancient Greece and the late Han Dynasty (China). A literature search found 165 modern research papers discussing the extraction methods, chemical compositions, pharmacological activities, and applications of snail mucus. Thus, this review summarized the research progress on the extraction, structure, pharmacological activities, and applications of polysaccharides and proteins isolated from snail mucus. The extraction methods of snail mucus include natural secretion and stimulation with blunt force, spray, electricity, un-shelling, ultrasonic-assisted, and ozone-assisted. As a natural product, snail mucus mainly comprises two polysaccharides (glycosaminoglycan, dextran), seven glycoproteins (mucin, lectin), various antibacterial peptides, allantoin, glycolic acid, etc. It has pharmacological activities that encourage cell migration and proliferation, and promote angiogenesis and have antibacterial, anti-oxidative and anticancer properties. The mechanism of snail mucus' chemicals performing antibacterial and wound-healing was proposed. Snail mucus is a promising bioactive product with multiple medical applications and has great potential in the pharmaceutical and healthcare industries. Therefore, this review provides a valuable reference for researching and developing snail mucus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kehan Zhu
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou 215021, China
| | - Zhiyi Zhang
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou 215021, China
| | - Guanqiang Li
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Dushu Lake Hospital Affiliated to Soochow University, Suzhou 215000, China
| | - Jiangcen Sun
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou 215021, China
| | - Tianyi Gu
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou 215021, China
| | - Noor Ul Ain
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou 215021, China
| | - Xicheng Zhang
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Dushu Lake Hospital Affiliated to Soochow University, Suzhou 215000, China.
| | - Duxin Li
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou 215021, China.
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5
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Zeng T, Liu L, Mo D, Yang Q, Hu X, Lu C, Sun R, Zheng L, Zhou B, Xu S. Proteins extracted from pearl oyster ( Pinctada martensii) with efficient accelerated wound healing in vitro through promoting cell proliferation, migration, and collagen formation. Heliyon 2024; 10:e24239. [PMID: 38234916 PMCID: PMC10792636 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e24239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2023] [Revised: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Ethnopharmacological relevance Pearl oyster (Pinctada martensii) is used in Chinese traditional medicine use in photoprotective, anti-inflammatory, and wound treatment.Aim of the study: This study explored whether the mucus protein of Pearl oyster (protein of Pinctada martensii, PMP) affects human skin fibroblast (HSF) proliferation, migration, collagen-related gene expression related to collagen formation, and in vivo healing effects. Materials and methods The PMP component was analyzed by LC-MS/MS. The cell viability was evaluated using a CCK-8 kit. The expression genes were measured by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. A full-thickness excisional wounding model in Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats was used to test the repairing effect of PMP in vivo, and Hematoxylin-Eosin (H&E) and Masson's Trichrome staining were applied to evaluate skin structure. Results The components of PMP were identified using LC-MS/MS proteomics, and a total of 3023 proteins were detected. The results of PMP-treated HSF showed that PMP effectively promoted cell proliferation by 1.6-fold and cell migration by 1.5-fold at a concentration of 1 mg/mL. Additionally, PMP treatment up-regulated the expression levels of collagen-related genes COL1A1, COL3A1, and MMP-1 in fibroblasts. Furthermore, PMP was applied in the therapy of full-thickness excisional wounds in rats. The results demonstrated that PMP significantly accelerated wound healing time, resulted in the recovery of dermal and epithelial thickness, and stimulated collagen regeneration. The regenerated skin closely resembled the structure of normal skin. Conclusions These findings provide solid evidence supporting the potential of PMP as a promising candidate for the treatment of skin wounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Zeng
- Collaborative Innovation Centre of Regenerative Medicine and Medical Bioresource Development and Application Co-constructed by the Province and Ministry, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, China
- Guangxi Engineering Center in Biomedical Materials for Tissue and Organ Regeneration, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, China
| | - Lianfeng Liu
- Collaborative Innovation Centre of Regenerative Medicine and Medical Bioresource Development and Application Co-constructed by the Province and Ministry, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, China
- Department of Ultrasound, Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, Nanning, 530021, China
| | - Dandan Mo
- Collaborative Innovation Centre of Regenerative Medicine and Medical Bioresource Development and Application Co-constructed by the Province and Ministry, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, China
- Guangxi Engineering Center in Biomedical Materials for Tissue and Organ Regeneration, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, China
| | - Qinghua Yang
- Collaborative Innovation Centre of Regenerative Medicine and Medical Bioresource Development and Application Co-constructed by the Province and Ministry, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, China
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, China
| | - Xiaohao Hu
- Collaborative Innovation Centre of Regenerative Medicine and Medical Bioresource Development and Application Co-constructed by the Province and Ministry, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, China
- Guangxi Engineering Center in Biomedical Materials for Tissue and Organ Regeneration, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, China
| | - Chun Lu
- School of Materials and Environment, Guangxi Minzu University, Nanning, Guangxi, 530006, China
| | - Ran Sun
- Collaborative Innovation Centre of Regenerative Medicine and Medical Bioresource Development and Application Co-constructed by the Province and Ministry, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, China
- Guangxi Engineering Center in Biomedical Materials for Tissue and Organ Regeneration, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, China
| | - Li Zheng
- Collaborative Innovation Centre of Regenerative Medicine and Medical Bioresource Development and Application Co-constructed by the Province and Ministry, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, China
- Guangxi Engineering Center in Biomedical Materials for Tissue and Organ Regeneration, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, China
| | - Bo Zhou
- Collaborative Innovation Centre of Regenerative Medicine and Medical Bioresource Development and Application Co-constructed by the Province and Ministry, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, China
- Guangxi Engineering Center in Biomedical Materials for Tissue and Organ Regeneration, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, China
| | - Sheng Xu
- Collaborative Innovation Centre of Regenerative Medicine and Medical Bioresource Development and Application Co-constructed by the Province and Ministry, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, China
- Guangxi Engineering Center in Biomedical Materials for Tissue and Organ Regeneration, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, China
- Life Sciences Institute, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, China
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6
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Kim H, Jeong EJ, Park C, Lee JS, Kim WJ, Yu KW, Suh HJ, Ahn Y, Moon SK. Modulation of gut microbiota ecosystem by a glucan-rich snail mucin heteropolysaccharide attenuates loperamide-induced constipation. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 253:126560. [PMID: 37640190 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.126560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Revised: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
The present study aimed to investigate the effect of oral administration of snail-derived mucin extract (SM) on ameliorating constipation symptoms of loperamide-induced constipated rats (n = 6). The analytical results indicated that SM mainly contains a glucan-rich snail mucin heteropolysaccharide with high molecular weights (108.5-267.9 kDa), comprising primarily of glucose (64.9 %) and galactose (22.4 %) with some deoxyhexoses (5.0 %) and hexosamines (4.9 %). Daily SM administration at doses of 10-40 mg/kg/day to the loperamide-induced constipated rats significantly (p < 0.05) ameliorated the deterioration in fecal parameters, such as numbers and weight of feces, fecal water contents, and gastrointestinal transit ratio. The histomorphometric results showed that the loperamide-induced decreases in the thickness of mucosal and muscularis mucosae layers as well as the distribution of mucin and c-KIT-positive areas were significantly (p < 0.05) improved via SM consumption at all doses tested. SM administration at all doses significantly increased the expression of genes encoding tryptophan hydroxylases (TPH1 and TPH2; p < 0.05), tight junction molecules (OCLN, CLDN1, and TJP1; p < 0.05), and mucin (MUC2 and MUC4; p < 0.05), but significantly decreased the aquaporin-encoding genes (AQP3 and AQP8; p < 0.05). Gut microbial community analysis indicated that SM administration could modulate loperamide-induced dysbiosis by increasing the phyla Actinobacteria (11.72-12.64 % at 10-40 mg/kg doses; p < 0.05) and Firmicutes (79.33 % and 74.24 % at 20 and 40 mg/kg doses; p < 0.05) and decreasing the phyla Bacteroidetes (5.98-12.47 % at 10-40 mg/kg doses; p < 0.05) and Verrucomicrobia (2.21 % and 2.78 % at 20 and 40 mg/kg doses; p < 0.05), suggesting that SM administration is effective in ameliorating constipation by controlling gut microbial communities. These findings can be utilized as fundamental data for developing novel functional materials using SM to prevent or treat constipation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hoon Kim
- Department of Food and Nutrition, Chung-Ang University, 4726 Seodong-daero, Daedeok-myeon, Anseong 17546, South Korea
| | - Eun-Jin Jeong
- Department of Integrated Biomedical and Life Sciences, Korea University, 145 Anam-ro, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 02841, South Korea; BK21 FOUR R&E Center for Learning Health Systems, Korea University, 145 Anam-ro, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 02841, South Korea
| | - Chunwoong Park
- Department of Integrated Biomedical and Life Sciences, Korea University, 145 Anam-ro, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 02841, South Korea; BK21 FOUR R&E Center for Learning Health Systems, Korea University, 145 Anam-ro, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 02841, South Korea
| | - Jeong-Seok Lee
- Age at Labs Inc., 55, Digital-ro 32-gil, Guro-gu, Seoul 08379, South Korea
| | - Woo Jung Kim
- Biocenter, Gyeonggido Business and Science Accelerator, Suwon 16229, South Korea
| | - Kwang-Won Yu
- Major in Food & Nutrition, Korea National University of Transportation, 61 Daehak-ro, Jeungpyeong 27909, South Korea
| | - Hyung Joo Suh
- Department of Integrated Biomedical and Life Sciences, Korea University, 145 Anam-ro, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 02841, South Korea
| | - Yejin Ahn
- Department of Integrated Biomedical and Life Sciences, Korea University, 145 Anam-ro, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 02841, South Korea.
| | - Sung-Kwon Moon
- Department of Food and Nutrition, Chung-Ang University, 4726 Seodong-daero, Daedeok-myeon, Anseong 17546, South Korea.
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7
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Krings W, Gorb SN. Particle binding capacity of snail saliva. J Chem Phys 2023; 159:185101. [PMID: 37955324 DOI: 10.1063/5.0176668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Gastropods forage with their radula, a thin chitinous membrane with embedded teeth, which scratch across the substrate to lose food particles. During this interaction, the risk of loosening particles is obvious without having a specialized mechanism holding them on the tooth surface. As mucus secretions are essential in molluscan life cycles and the locomotion and attachment gels are known to have an instant high adhesion, we have hypothesized that the saliva could support particle retention during feeding. As adhesion of snail saliva was not studied before, we present here an experimental setup to test its particle-binding capacity using a large land snail (Lissachatina fulica, Stylommatophora, Heterobranchia). This experiment was also applied to the gels produced by the snail foot for comparison and can be potentially applied to various fluids present at a small volume in the future. We found, that the saliva has high particle retention capacity that is comparable to the foot glue of the snail. To gain some insight into the properties of the saliva, we additionally studied it in the scanning electron microscope, estimated its viscosity in a de-wetting experiment, and investigated its elemental composition using energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy reveling higher contents of Ca, Zn and other potential cross-linkers similar to those found in the glue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wencke Krings
- Department of Cariology, Endodontology and Periodontology, Universität Leipzig, Liebigstraße 12, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
- Department of Electron Microscopy, Institute of Cell and Systems Biology of Animals, Universität Hamburg, Martin-Luther-King-Platz 3, 20146 Hamburg, Germany
- Department of Mammalogy and Palaeoanthropology, Leibniz Institute for the Analysis of Biodiversity Change, Martin-Luther-King-Platz 3, 20146 Hamburg, Germany
- Department of Functional Morphology and Biomechanics, Zoological Institute, Christian-Albrechts-Universität zu Kiel, Am Botanischen Garten 1-9, 24118 Kiel, Germany
| | - Stanislav N Gorb
- Department of Functional Morphology and Biomechanics, Zoological Institute, Christian-Albrechts-Universität zu Kiel, Am Botanischen Garten 1-9, 24118 Kiel, Germany
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8
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Rashad M, Sampò S, Cataldi A, Zara S. Biological activities of gastropods secretions: snail and slug slime. NATURAL PRODUCTS AND BIOPROSPECTING 2023; 13:42. [PMID: 37870705 PMCID: PMC10593653 DOI: 10.1007/s13659-023-00404-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
Gastropods, a mollusk class including slugs and snails, represent an extraordinarily diverse and ecologically significant group of organisms featuring the largest class of invertebrates. They can be classified as aquatic and terrestrial animals having coiled shells, although some species have reduced or absent shells. Their unique body structure includes a muscular foot for locomotion, a visceral mass containing essential organs, and a distinct head region with sensory organs such as tentacles and eyes. They are used to secrete a complex mixture of glycoproteins, enzymes, peptides, mucus and other bioactive compounds, namely slime, which represents a tool to allow locomotion, protection, and interaction within different habitats. The biological activities of the slime have attracted considerable interest due to their diverse and potentially valuable properties ranging from defense mechanisms to potential therapeutic applications in wound healing, antimicrobial therapy, management of inflammation, and neurological disorders. This review aims at exploring the beneficial effects of snail and slug slime focusing, in particular, on the improvement of the biological processes underlying them. Continued exploration of the intricate components of these slimy secretions promises to discover new bioactive molecules with diverse applications in various scientific and industrial fields.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Rashad
- Department of Pharmacy, "G. d'Annunzio" University of Chieti-Pescara, Via Dei Vestini 31, 66100, Chieti, Italy
| | - Simone Sampò
- International Institution of Heliciculture of Cherasco - Lumacheria Italiana Srl, Corso Einaudi 40, 12062, Cherasco, Italy
| | - Amelia Cataldi
- Department of Pharmacy, "G. d'Annunzio" University of Chieti-Pescara, Via Dei Vestini 31, 66100, Chieti, Italy
| | - Susi Zara
- Department of Pharmacy, "G. d'Annunzio" University of Chieti-Pescara, Via Dei Vestini 31, 66100, Chieti, Italy.
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9
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Liegertová M, Malý J. Gastropod Mucus: Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Biological Activities, Applications, and Strategic Priorities. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2023; 9:5567-5579. [PMID: 37751898 PMCID: PMC10566510 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.3c01096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023]
Abstract
Terrestrial gastropod mucus exhibits multifunctional attributes, enabling diverse applications. This comprehensive review integrates insights across biomedicine, biotechnology, and intellectual property to elucidate the bioactivities, physicochemical properties, and ecological roles of snail and slug mucus. Following an overview of mucus functional roles in gastropods, promising applications are highlighted in wound healing, antimicrobials, biomaterials, and cosmetics, alongside key challenges. An analysis of global patent trends reveals surging innovation efforts to leverage gastropod mucus. Strategic priorities include bioprospecting natural diversity, optimizing stabilization systems, recombinant biosynthesis, and fostering collaboration to translate promising potentials sustainably into impactful technologies. Ultimately, harnessing the remarkable multifunctionality of gastropod mucus holds immense opportunities for transformative innovations in biomedicine, biotechnology, and beyond.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michaela Liegertová
- Centre of Nanomaterials and Biotechnology,
Faculty of Science, Jan Evangelista Purkyně
University in Ústí nad Labem, Pasteurova 3632/15, Ústí nad Labem 400 96, Czech Republic
| | - Jan Malý
- Centre of Nanomaterials and Biotechnology,
Faculty of Science, Jan Evangelista Purkyně
University in Ústí nad Labem, Pasteurova 3632/15, Ústí nad Labem 400 96, Czech Republic
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10
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Cerullo AR, McDermott MB, Pepi LE, Liu ZL, Barry D, Zhang S, Yang X, Chen X, Azadi P, Holford M, Braunschweig AB. Comparative mucomic analysis of three functionally distinct Cornu aspersum Secretions. Nat Commun 2023; 14:5361. [PMID: 37660066 PMCID: PMC10475054 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-41094-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Every animal secretes mucus, placing them among the most diverse biological materials. Mucus hydrogels are complex mixtures of water, ions, carbohydrates, and proteins. Uncertainty surrounding their composition and how interactions between components contribute to mucus function complicates efforts to exploit their properties. There is substantial interest in commercializing mucus from the garden snail, Cornu aspersum, for skincare, drug delivery, tissue engineering, and composite materials. C. aspersum secretes three mucus-one shielding the animal from environmental threats, one adhesive mucus from the pedal surface of the foot, and another pedal mucus that is lubricating. It remains a mystery how compositional differences account for their substantially different properties. Here, we characterize mucus proteins, glycosylation, ion content, and mechanical properties that could be used to provide insight into structure-function relationships through an integrative "mucomics" approach. We identify macromolecular components of these hydrogels, including a previously unreported protein class termed Conserved Anterior Mollusk Proteins (CAMPs). Revealing differences between C. aspersum mucus shows how considering structure at all levels can inform the design of mucus-inspired materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio R Cerullo
- The Advanced Science Research Center, Graduate Center of the City University of New York, 85 St. Nicholas Terrace, New York, NY, 10031, USA
- The PhD Program in Biochemistry, Graduate Center of the City University of New York, 365 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY, 10016, USA
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Hunter College, 695 Park Avenue, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Maxwell B McDermott
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Hunter College, 695 Park Avenue, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Lauren E Pepi
- Complex Carbohydrate Research Center, University of Georgia, 315 Riverbend Road, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
| | - Zhi-Lun Liu
- The Advanced Science Research Center, Graduate Center of the City University of New York, 85 St. Nicholas Terrace, New York, NY, 10031, USA
- Department of Chemical Engineering, The City College of New York, New York, NY, 10031, USA
| | - Diariou Barry
- The Advanced Science Research Center, Graduate Center of the City University of New York, 85 St. Nicholas Terrace, New York, NY, 10031, USA
| | - Sheng Zhang
- The Advanced Science Research Center, Graduate Center of the City University of New York, 85 St. Nicholas Terrace, New York, NY, 10031, USA
| | - Xu Yang
- Complex Carbohydrate Research Center, University of Georgia, 315 Riverbend Road, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
| | - Xi Chen
- The Advanced Science Research Center, Graduate Center of the City University of New York, 85 St. Nicholas Terrace, New York, NY, 10031, USA
- Department of Chemical Engineering, The City College of New York, New York, NY, 10031, USA
- The PhD Program in Chemistry, Graduate Center of the City University of New York, 365 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY, 10016, USA
- The PhD Program in Physics, Graduate Center of the City University of New York, 365 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY, 10016, USA
| | - Parastoo Azadi
- Complex Carbohydrate Research Center, University of Georgia, 315 Riverbend Road, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
| | - Mande Holford
- The PhD Program in Biochemistry, Graduate Center of the City University of New York, 365 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY, 10016, USA
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Hunter College, 695 Park Avenue, New York, NY, 10065, USA
- The PhD Program in Chemistry, Graduate Center of the City University of New York, 365 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY, 10016, USA
- The PhD Program in Biology, Graduate Center of the City University of New York, 365 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY, 10016, USA
- Department of Invertebrate Zoology, The American Museum of Natural History, New York, NY, 10024, USA
| | - Adam B Braunschweig
- The Advanced Science Research Center, Graduate Center of the City University of New York, 85 St. Nicholas Terrace, New York, NY, 10031, USA.
- The PhD Program in Biochemistry, Graduate Center of the City University of New York, 365 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY, 10016, USA.
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Hunter College, 695 Park Avenue, New York, NY, 10065, USA.
- The PhD Program in Chemistry, Graduate Center of the City University of New York, 365 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY, 10016, USA.
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11
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Phrompanya P, Suriyaruean N, Nantarat N, Saenphet S, Tragoolpua Y, Saenphet K. Biological properties of mucus from land snails ( Lissachatina fulica) and freshwater snails ( Pomacea canaliculata) and histochemical study of mucous cells in their foot. PeerJ 2023; 11:e15827. [PMID: 37583916 PMCID: PMC10424676 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.15827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Mucus derived from many land snails has been extensively utilised in medicine and cosmetics, but some biological activities of the mucus need to be well documented. Nevertheless, most mucus is obtained from land snails, while mucus from freshwater snails has yet to be attended. Methods This study aims to determine and compare mucus's antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities from the land snail Lissachatina fulica and the freshwater snail Pomacea canaliculata. ABTS, DPPH, reducing power and total antioxidant activity assays were used to evaluate the antioxidant capacity. Inhibition of nitric oxide production in lipopolysaccharide-activated RAW 264.7 cells was performed to determine the anti-inflammatory activity. Additionally, the histochemical analysis of mucous cells in each snail foot was conducted to compare the distribution of mucous cells and types of mucins using periodic acid-Schiff and Alcian blue staining. Results Mucus from L. fulica and P. canaliculata exhibited antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities in different parameters. L. fulica mucus has higher total antioxidant (44.71 ± 2.11 mg AAE/g) and nitric oxide inhibitory activities (IC50 = 9.67 ± 0.31 µg/ml), whereas P. canaliculata mucus has better-reducing power activity (43.63 ± 2.47 mg AAE/g) and protein denaturation inhibition (IC50 = 0.60 ± 0.03 mg/ml). Histochemically, both species' dorsal and ventral foot regions contained neutral and acid mucins in different quantities. In the dorsal region, the neutral mucins level in L. fulica (16.64 ± 3.46%) was significantly higher than that in P. canaliculata (11.19 ± 1.50%), while the acid mucins level showed no significant difference between species. Levels of both mucins in the ventral foot region of L. fulica (15.08 ± 3.97% and 10.76 ± 3.00%, respectively) were significantly higher than those of P. canaliculata (2.25 ± 0.48% and 2.71 ± 0.56%, respectively). This study revealed scientific evidence of the biological capacity of mucus from L. fulica and P. canaliculata as well as provided helpful information on the region of the foot which produces effective mucus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phornphan Phrompanya
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
- Ph.D.’s Degree Program in Biology (International Program), Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Narinnida Suriyaruean
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Nattawadee Nantarat
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Supap Saenphet
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Yingmanee Tragoolpua
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Kanokporn Saenphet
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
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12
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Atreya A, Ghimire S, Kanchan T, Kunwar S, Shah D. Fatal Choking Due to a Slug: A Death Driven by Folklore. Wilderness Environ Med 2023; 34:100-102. [PMID: 36369204 DOI: 10.1016/j.wem.2022.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Revised: 08/27/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
The use of animals for therapeutic purposes is based on traditional beliefs, family pressure, and watching others appear to be cured. We report an unusual case of a 47-y-old man who choked to death after consuming a live slug. During autopsy, a 9.5-cm slug was found impacted in the tracheobronchial tree. History provided by the family revealed that the deceased consumed slugs in the belief that this would relieve his symptoms of chronic arthritis. We report this rare case to highlight the possible ill effects of such practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alok Atreya
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Lumbini Medical College, Palpa, Nepal.
| | - Samjhana Ghimire
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Patan Academy of Health Sciences, Lalitpur, Nepal
| | - Tanuj Kanchan
- Department of Forensic Medicine & Toxicology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Jodhpur, India
| | - Srijana Kunwar
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Patan Academy of Health Sciences, Lalitpur, Nepal
| | - Dhiraj Shah
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Kathmandu University Hospital: Dhulikhel Hospital, Dhulikhel, Nepal
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13
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Park S, Chin-Hun Kuo J, Reesink HL, Paszek MJ. Recombinant mucin biotechnology and engineering. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2023; 193:114618. [PMID: 36375719 PMCID: PMC10253230 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2022.114618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Revised: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Mucins represent a largely untapped class of polymeric building block for biomaterials, therapeutics, and other biotechnology. Because the mucin polymer backbone is genetically encoded, sequence-specific mucins with defined physical and biochemical properties can be fabricated using recombinant technologies. The pendent O-glycans of mucins are increasingly implicated in immunomodulation, suppression of pathogen virulence, and other biochemical activities. Recent advances in engineered cell production systems are enabling the scalable synthesis of recombinant mucins with precisely tuned glycan side chains, offering exciting possibilities to tune the biological functionality of mucin-based products. New metabolic and chemoenzymatic strategies enable further tuning and functionalization of mucin O-glycans, opening new possibilities to expand the chemical diversity and functionality of mucin building blocks. In this review, we discuss these advances, and the opportunities for engineered mucins in biomedical applications ranging from in vitro models to therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sangwoo Park
- Field of Biophysics, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Joe Chin-Hun Kuo
- Robert Frederick Smith School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Heidi L Reesink
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - Matthew J Paszek
- Field of Biophysics, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA; Robert Frederick Smith School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA; Nancy E. and Peter C. Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA.
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14
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Tasevska T, Glavas Dodov M, Shalabalija D, Mihailova L, Polenakovic R, Simonoska Crcarevska M. Spray-dried snail mucus as raw material with potential for chronic wound treatment. MAKEDONSKO FARMACEVTSKI BILTEN 2022. [DOI: 10.33320/maced.pharm.bull.2022.68.03.153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Teodora Tasevska
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Technology and Center of pharmaceutical nanotechnology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ss. Cyril & Methodius University in Skopje, Majka Tereza 47, 1000 Skopje, R. North Macedonia
| | - Marija Glavas Dodov
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Technology and Center of pharmaceutical nanotechnology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ss. Cyril & Methodius University in Skopje, Majka Tereza 47, 1000 Skopje, R. North Macedonia
| | - Dushko Shalabalija
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Technology and Center of pharmaceutical nanotechnology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ss. Cyril & Methodius University in Skopje, Majka Tereza 47, 1000 Skopje, R. North Macedonia
| | - Ljubica Mihailova
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Technology and Center of pharmaceutical nanotechnology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ss. Cyril & Methodius University in Skopje, Majka Tereza 47, 1000 Skopje, R. North Macedonia
| | - Radmil Polenakovic
- Institute for production engineering and management, Faculty of Mechanical engineering, Ss. Cyril & Methodius University in Skopje, Rudger Boshkovikj 18, 1000 Skopje, R. North Macedonia
| | - Maja Simonoska Crcarevska
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Technology and Center of pharmaceutical nanotechnology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ss. Cyril & Methodius University in Skopje, Majka Tereza 47, 1000 Skopje, R. North Macedonia
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15
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Liu E, Gao H, Zhao Y, Pang Y, Yao Y, Yang Z, Zhang X, Wang Y, Yang S, Ma X, Zeng J, Guo J. The potential application of natural products in cutaneous wound healing: A review of preclinical evidence. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:900439. [PMID: 35935866 PMCID: PMC9354992 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.900439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Under normal circumstances, wound healing can be summarized as three processes. These include inflammation, proliferation, and remodeling. The vast majority of wounds heal rapidly; however, a large percentage of nonhealing wounds have still not been studied significantly. The factors affecting wound nonhealing are complex and diverse, and identifying an effective solution from nature becomes a key goal of research. This study aimed to highlight and review the mechanisms and targets of natural products (NPs) for treating nonhealing wounds. The results of relevant studies have shown that the effects of NPs are associated with PI3K-AKT, P38MAPK, fibroblast growth factor, MAPK, and ERK signaling pathways and involve tumor growth factor (TNF), vascular endothelial growth factor, TNF-α, interleukin-1β, and expression of other cytokines and proteins. The 25 NPs that contribute to wound healing were systematically summarized by an inductive collation of the six major classes of compounds, including saponins, polyphenols, flavonoids, anthraquinones, polysaccharides, and others, which will further direct the attention to the active components of NPs and provide research ideas for further development of new products for wound healing.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Liu
- Dermatological Department, Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Hongjin Gao
- Dermatological Department, Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - YiJia Zhao
- Dermatological Department, Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Yaobing Pang
- Dermatological Department, Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Yejing Yao
- Neijiang Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Neijiang, China
| | - Zhengru Yang
- Dermatological Department, Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Xueer Zhang
- Dermatological Department, Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - YanJin Wang
- Dermatological Department, Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Siming Yang
- Dermatological Department, Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiao Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
- *Correspondence: Xiao Ma, ; Jinhao Zeng, ; Jing Guo,
| | - Jinhao Zeng
- TCM Regulating Metabolic Diseases Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
- *Correspondence: Xiao Ma, ; Jinhao Zeng, ; Jing Guo,
| | - Jing Guo
- Dermatological Department, Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
- *Correspondence: Xiao Ma, ; Jinhao Zeng, ; Jing Guo,
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