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Wu J, Zhang D, Liu H, Li J, Li T, Wu J, Zhang S. Neuroprotective effects of apigenin on retinal ganglion cells in ischemia/reperfusion: modulating mitochondrial dynamics in in vivo and in vitro models. J Transl Med 2024; 22:447. [PMID: 38741132 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-024-05260-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Retinal ischemia/reperfusion (RIR) is implicated in various forms of optic neuropathies, yet effective treatments are lacking. RIR leads to the death of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) and subsequent vision loss, posing detrimental effects on both physical and mental health. Apigenin (API), derived from a wide range of sources, has been reported to exert protective effects against ischemia/reperfusion injuries in various organs, such as the brain, kidney, myocardium, and liver. In this study, we investigated the protective effect of API and its underlying mechanisms on RGC degeneration induced by retinal ischemia/reperfusion (RIR). METHODS An in vivo model was induced by anterior chamber perfusion following intravitreal injection of API one day prior to the procedure. Meanwhile, an in vitro model was established through 1% oxygen and glucose deprivation. The neuroprotective effects of API were evaluated using H&E staining, spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT), Fluoro-Gold retrograde labeling, and Photopic negative response (PhNR). Furthermore, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) was employed to observe mitochondrial crista morphology and integrity. To elucidate the underlying mechanisms of API, the terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) assay, flow cytometry assay, western blot, cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) assay, JC-1 kit assay, dichlorofluorescein-diacetate (DCFH-DA) assay, as well as TMRE and Mito-tracker staining were conducted. RESULTS API treatment protected retinal inner plexiform layer (IPL) and ganglion cell complex (GCC), and improved the function of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). Additionally, API reduced RGC apoptosis and decreased lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release by upregulating Bcl-2 and Bcl-xL expression, while downregulating Bax and cleaved caspase-3 expression. Furthermore, API increased mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) and decreased extracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. These effects were achieved by enhancing mitochondrial function, restoring mitochondrial cristae morphology and integrity, and regulating the expression of OPA1, MFN2, and DRP1, thereby regulating mitochondrial dynamics involving fusion and fission. CONCLUSION API protects RGCs against RIR injury by modulating mitochondrial dynamics, promoting mitochondrial fusion and fission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiawen Wu
- Eye Institute, Eye and ENT Hospital, College of Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Daowei Zhang
- Eye Institute, Eye and ENT Hospital, College of Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hongli Liu
- Eye Institute, Eye and ENT Hospital, College of Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jufeng Li
- Eye Institute, Eye and ENT Hospital, College of Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ting Li
- Eye Institute, Eye and ENT Hospital, College of Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jihong Wu
- Eye Institute, Eye and ENT Hospital, College of Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and Restoration, Science and Technology Commission of Shanghai Municipality, Shanghai, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Institutes of Brain Science and Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Shanghai, China.
- Key Laboratory of Myopia, Ministry of Health, Shanghai, China.
| | - Shenghai Zhang
- Eye Institute, Eye and ENT Hospital, College of Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and Restoration, Science and Technology Commission of Shanghai Municipality, Shanghai, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Institutes of Brain Science and Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Shanghai, China.
- Key Laboratory of Myopia, Ministry of Health, Shanghai, China.
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Mir IH, Anilkumar AS, Guha S, Mohanty AK, Suresh Kumar M, Sujatha V, Ramesh T, Thirunavukkarasu C. Elucidation of 7,8-dihydroxy flavone in complexing with the oxidative stress-inducing enzymes, its impact on radical quenching and DNA damage: an in silico and in vitro approach. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2024; 42:4048-4063. [PMID: 37261742 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2023.2218932] [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: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 05/21/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Oxidative stress (OS) has been attributed to the progression of various disorders, including cancer, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases. Several antioxidant compounds and free radical quenchers have been shown to mitigate oxidative stress. However, large-scale randomized controlled trials of such compounds on chronic disease aversion have yielded paradoxical and disappointing results due to the constrained cognizance of their oxidative mechanisms and therapeutic targets. The current study sought to identify the potential therapeutic targets of 7,8-Dihydroxyflavone (7,8-DHF) by analyzing its interactions with the enzymes implicated in oxidative stress and also to explore its radicle quenching potential and prophylactic impact on the H2O2-induced DNA damage. Through the in silco approach, we investigated the antioxidant potential of 7,8-DHF by evaluating its interactions with the human oxidative stress-inducing enzymes such as myeloperoxidase (MPO), NADPH oxidase (NOX), nitric oxide synthase (NOS), and xanthine oxidase (XO) and a comparative analysis of those interactions with known antioxidants (Ascorbic acid, Melatonin, Tocopherol) used as controls. The best-scoring complex was adopted for the simulation analysis in investigating protein-ligand conformational dynamics. The in vitro radicle quenching potential was evaluated by performing a spectrum of antioxidant assays, and radical quenching was observed in a dose-dependent fashion with IC50 values of < 60 µM/mL. Further, we probed its anti-hemolytic potential and prophylactic impact in avian erythrocytes subjected to H2O2-induced hemolysis and DNA damage by implementing hemolysis and comet assays. The protective effect was more pronounced at higher concentrations of the drug.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ishfaq Hassan Mir
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Pondicherry University, Puducherry, India
| | | | - Shreyoshi Guha
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Pondicherry University, Puducherry, India
| | | | | | - Venugopal Sujatha
- DST-Mobility Fellow, Department of Chemistry, Pondicherry University, Puducherry, India
- Department of Chemistry, Periyar University, Salem, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Thiyagarajan Ramesh
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, Al-Kharj, Saudi Arabia
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Balakrishnan R, Jannat K, Choi DK. Development of dietary small molecules as multi-targeting treatment strategies for Alzheimer's disease. Redox Biol 2024; 71:103105. [PMID: 38471283 PMCID: PMC10945280 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2024.103105] [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: 01/15/2024] [Revised: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 02/24/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Cognitive dysfunction can occur both in normal aging and age-related neurological disorders, such as mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's disease (AD). These disorders have few treatment options due to side effects and limited efficacy. New approaches to slow cognitive decline are urgently needed. Dietary interventions (nutraceuticals) have received considerable attention because they exhibit strong neuroprotective properties and may help prevent or minimize AD symptoms. Biological aging is driven by a series of interrelated mechanisms, including oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, neuronal apoptosis, and autophagy, which function through various signaling pathways. Recent clinical and preclinical studies have shown that dietary small molecules derived from natural sources, including flavonoids, carotenoids, and polyphenolic acids, can modulate oxidative damage, cognitive impairments, mitochondrial dysfunction, neuroinflammation, neuronal apoptosis, autophagy dysregulation, and gut microbiota dysbiosis. This paper reviews research on different dietary small molecules and their bioactive constituents in the treatment of AD. Additionally, the chemical structure, effective dose, and specific molecular mechanisms of action are comprehensively explored. This paper also discusses the advantages of using nanotechnology-based drug delivery, which significantly enhances oral bioavailability, safety, and therapeutic effect, and lowers the risk of adverse effects. These agents have considerable potential as novel and safe therapeutic agents that can prevent and combat age-related AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rengasamy Balakrishnan
- Department of Applied Life Sciences, Graduate School, BK21 Program, Konkuk University, Chungju, 27478, South Korea; Department of Biotechnology, College of Biomedical and Health Science, Research Institute of Inflammatory Disease (RID), Konkuk University, Chungju, 27478, South Korea
| | - Khoshnur Jannat
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Biomedical and Health Science, Research Institute of Inflammatory Disease (RID), Konkuk University, Chungju, 27478, South Korea
| | - Dong-Kug Choi
- Department of Applied Life Sciences, Graduate School, BK21 Program, Konkuk University, Chungju, 27478, South Korea; Department of Biotechnology, College of Biomedical and Health Science, Research Institute of Inflammatory Disease (RID), Konkuk University, Chungju, 27478, South Korea.
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Verma H, Kaur S, Kaur S, Gangwar P, Dhiman M, Mantha AK. Role of Cytoskeletal Elements in Regulation of Synaptic Functions: Implications Toward Alzheimer's Disease and Phytochemicals-Based Interventions. Mol Neurobiol 2024:10.1007/s12035-024-04053-3. [PMID: 38491338 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-024-04053-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD), a multifactorial disease, is characterized by the accumulation of neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs) and amyloid beta (Aβ) plaques. AD is triggered via several factors like alteration in cytoskeletal proteins, a mutation in presenilin 1 (PSEN1), presenilin 2 (PSEN2), amyloid precursor protein (APP), and post-translational modifications (PTMs) in the cytoskeletal elements. Owing to the major structural and functional role of cytoskeletal elements, like the organization of axon initial segmentation, dendritic spines, synaptic regulation, and delivery of cargo at the synapse; modulation of these elements plays an important role in AD pathogenesis; like Tau is a microtubule-associated protein that stabilizes the microtubules, and it also causes inhibition of nucleo-cytoplasmic transportation by disrupting the integrity of nuclear pore complex. One of the major cytoskeletal elements, actin and its dynamics, regulate the dendritic spine structure and functions; impairments have been documented towards learning and memory defects. The second major constituent of these cytoskeletal elements, microtubules, are necessary for the delivery of the cargo, like ion channels and receptors at the synaptic membranes, whereas actin-binding protein, i.e., Cofilin's activation form rod-like structures, is involved in the formation of paired helical filaments (PHFs) observed in AD. Also, the glial cells rely on their cytoskeleton to maintain synaptic functionality. Thus, making cytoskeletal elements and their regulation in synaptic structure and function as an important aspect to be focused for better management and targeting AD pathology. This review advocates exploring phytochemicals and Ayurvedic plant extracts against AD by elucidating their neuroprotective mechanisms involving cytoskeletal modulation and enhancing synaptic plasticity. However, challenges include their limited bioavailability due to the poor solubility and the limited potential to cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB), emphasizing the need for targeted strategies to improve therapeutic efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harkomal Verma
- Department of Zoology, School of Basic Sciences, Central University of Punjab, Village Ghudda, VPO - Ghudda, Bathinda, 151 401, Punjab, India
| | - Sharanjot Kaur
- Department of Microbiology, School of Basic Sciences, Central University of Punjab, Village Ghudda, Bathinda, Punjab, India
| | - Sukhchain Kaur
- Department of Microbiology, School of Basic Sciences, Central University of Punjab, Village Ghudda, Bathinda, Punjab, India
| | - Prabhakar Gangwar
- Department of Zoology, School of Basic Sciences, Central University of Punjab, Village Ghudda, VPO - Ghudda, Bathinda, 151 401, Punjab, India
| | - Monisha Dhiman
- Department of Microbiology, School of Basic Sciences, Central University of Punjab, Village Ghudda, Bathinda, Punjab, India
| | - Anil Kumar Mantha
- Department of Zoology, School of Basic Sciences, Central University of Punjab, Village Ghudda, VPO - Ghudda, Bathinda, 151 401, Punjab, India.
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Xu M, Xia L, Li J, Du Y, Dong Z. 7,8-Dihydroxyflavone ameliorates cognitive impairment induced by repeated neonatal sevoflurane exposures in mice through increasing tau O-GlcNAcylation. Neurosci Lett 2024; 818:137559. [PMID: 37984484 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2023.137559] [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: 06/06/2023] [Revised: 10/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sevoflurane, one of the most commonly used general anesthetics for pediatric anesthesia, has recently gained significant attention in both preclinical and clinical settings due to its potential neurotoxicity in the developing brain. Tau phosphorylation, induced by sevoflurane, is recognized as one of the major causes of neurotoxicity. 7,8-dihydroxyflavone (DHF), a TrkB receptor agonist, has been reported to exhibit potential neuroprotective effects against tauopathies. In this study, our objective was to investigate whether DHF could provide neuroprotective effects against sevoflurane-induced neurotoxicity and explore the underlying molecular mechanisms. METHODS Six-day-old mice were subjected to 2 h of anesthesia with 3 % sevoflurane, with or without pretreatment of DHF (5 mg/kg/day, i.p.) for 3 consecutive days. Autonomic motor ability was assessed by open-field test, while learning and memory abilities were evaluated by the fear conditioning test. Western blotting was conducted to measure the levels of t-TrkB, p-TrkB, tau, and phosphorylated tau. Additionally, a co-immunoprecipitation assay was performed to investigate the interaction between O-GlcNAcylation and tau. RESULTS Repeated neonatal sevoflurane exposures resulted in reduced freezing time during the context and cued fear conditioning tests in adulthood. However, pretreatment with DHF restored the freezing time to the level of the control group, indicating that DHF effectively alleviated cognitive impairments induced by neonatal sevoflurane exposure. We also observed that repeated neonatal sevoflurane exposures increased tau phosphorylation while decreasing tau O-GlcNAcylation. However, DHF pretreatment rebalanced the tau O-GlcNAcylation/phosphorylation ratio by enhancing the interaction between tau and O-GlcNAcylation. CONCLUSION Our findings demonstrate that DHF effectively ameliorates sevoflurane-induced cognitive impairment in developing mice by restoring the balance between tau O-GlcNAcylation and phosphorylation. Therefore, this study suggests that DHF has the potential to be a therapeutic agent for treating cognitive impairment associated with anesthetics, such as sevoflurane.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingliang Xu
- Growth, Development, and Mental Health of Children and Adolescence Center, Pediatric Research Institute, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Translational Medical Research in Cognitive Development and Learning and Memory Disorders, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400014, China; Department of Anesthesiology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Lei Xia
- Growth, Development, and Mental Health of Children and Adolescence Center, Pediatric Research Institute, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Translational Medical Research in Cognitive Development and Learning and Memory Disorders, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400014, China
| | - Junjie Li
- Growth, Development, and Mental Health of Children and Adolescence Center, Pediatric Research Institute, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Translational Medical Research in Cognitive Development and Learning and Memory Disorders, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400014, China
| | - Yehong Du
- Growth, Development, and Mental Health of Children and Adolescence Center, Pediatric Research Institute, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Translational Medical Research in Cognitive Development and Learning and Memory Disorders, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400014, China
| | - Zhifang Dong
- Growth, Development, and Mental Health of Children and Adolescence Center, Pediatric Research Institute, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Translational Medical Research in Cognitive Development and Learning and Memory Disorders, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400014, China.
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Huang W, Zhong Y, Gao B, Zheng B, Liu Y. Nrf2-mediated therapeutic effects of dietary flavones in different diseases. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1240433. [PMID: 37767395 PMCID: PMC10520786 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1240433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Oxidative stress (OS) is a pathological status that occurs when the body's balance between oxidants and antioxidant defense systems is broken, which can promote the development of many diseases. Nrf2, a redox-sensitive transcription encoded by NFE2L2, is the master regulator of phase II antioxidant enzymes and cytoprotective genes. In this context, Nrf2/ARE signaling can be a compelling target against OS-induced diseases. Recently, natural Nrf2/ARE regulators like dietary flavones have shown therapeutic potential in various acute and chronic diseases such as diabetes, neurodegenerative diseases, ischemia-reperfusion injury, and cancer. In this review, we aim to summarize nrf2-mediated protective effects of flavones in different conditions. Firstly, we retrospected the mechanisms of how flavones regulate the Nrf2/ARE pathway and introduced the mediator role Nrf2 plays in inflammation and apoptosis. Then we review the evidence that flavones modulated Nrf2/ARE pathway to prevent diseases in experimental models. Based on these literature, we found that flavones could regulate Nrf2 expression by mechanisms below: 1) dissociating the binding between Nrf2 and Keap1 via PKC-mediated Nrf2 phosphorylation and P62-mediated Keap1 autophagic degradation; 2) regulating Nrf2 nuclear translocation by various kinases like AMPK, MAPKs, Fyn; 3) decreasing Nrf2 ubiquitination and degradation via activating sirt1 and PI3K/AKT-mediated GSK3 inhibition; and 4) epigenetic alternation of Nrf2 such as demethylation at the promoter region and histone acetylation. In conclusion, flavones targeting Nrf2 can be promising therapeutic agents for various OS-related disorders. However, there is a lack of investigations on human subjects, and new drug delivery systems to improve flavones' treatment efficiency still need to be developed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenkai Huang
- Liaoning Provincial Key Laboratory of Oral Disease, School and Hospital of Stomatology, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Yuan Zhong
- Liaoning Provincial Key Laboratory of Oral Disease, School and Hospital of Stomatology, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Botao Gao
- Liaoning Provincial Key Laboratory of Oral Disease, School and Hospital of Stomatology, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Bowen Zheng
- Liaoning Provincial Key Laboratory of Oral Disease, Department of Orthodontics, School and Hospital of Stomatology, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Yi Liu
- Liaoning Provincial Key Laboratory of Oral Disease, Department of Orthodontics, School and Hospital of Stomatology, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
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Oreshko AS, Rodnyy AY, Bazovkina DV, Naumenko VS. Effects of central administration of the human Tau protein on the Bdnf, Trkb, p75, Mapt, Bax and Bcl-2 genes expression in the mouse brain. Vavilovskii Zhurnal Genet Selektsii 2023; 27:342-348. [PMID: 37465194 PMCID: PMC10350857 DOI: 10.18699/vjgb-23-41] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Revised: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease is the most common form of dementia, affecting millions of people worldwide. Despite intensive work by many researchers, the mechanisms underlying Alzheimer's disease development have not yet been elucidated. Recently, more studies have been directed to the investigation of the processes leading to the formation of neurofibrillary tangles consisting of hyperphosphorylated microtubule-associated Tau proteins. Pathological aggregation of this protein leads to the development of neurodegeneration associated with impaired neurogenesis and apoptosis. In the present study, the effects of central administration of aggregating human Tau protein on the expression of the Bdnf, Ntrk2, Ngfr, Mapt, Bax and Bcl-2 genes in the brain of C57Bl/6J mice were explored. It was found that five days after administration of the protein into the fourth lateral ventricle, significant changes occurred in the expression of the genes involved in apoptosis and neurogenesis regulation, e. g., a notable decrease in the mRNA level of the gene encoding the most important neurotrophic factor BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor) was observed in the frontal cortex which could play an important role in neurodegeneration caused by pathological Tau protein aggregation. Central administration of the Tau protein did not affect the expression of the Ntrk2, Ngfr, Mapt, Bax and Bcl-2 genes in the frontal cortex and hippocampus. Concurrently, a significant decrease in the expression of the Mapt gene encoding endogenous mouse Tau protein was found in the cerebellum. However, no changes in the level or phosphorylation of the endogenous Tau protein were observed. Thus, central administration of aggregating human Tau protein decreases the expression of the Bdnf gene in the frontal cortex and the Mapt gene encoding endogenous mouse Tau protein in the cerebellum of C57Bl/6J mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- A S Oreshko
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - A Ya Rodnyy
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - D V Bazovkina
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - V S Naumenko
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, Russia
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Timalsina B, Haque MN, Dash R, Choi HJ, Ghimire N, Moon IS. Neuronal Differentiation and Outgrowth Effect of Thymol in Trachyspermum ammi Seed Extract via BDNF/TrkB Signaling Pathway in Prenatal Maternal Supplementation and Primary Hippocampal Culture. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24108565. [PMID: 37239909 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24108565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2023] [Revised: 05/06/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Reviving the neuronal functions in neurodegenerative disorders requires the promotion of neurite outgrowth. Thymol, which is a principal component of Trachyspermum ammi seed extract (TASE), is reported to have neuroprotective effects. However, the effects of thymol and TASE on neuronal differentiation and outgrowth are yet to be studied. This study is the first report investigating the neuronal growth and maturation effects of TASE and thymol. Pregnant mice were orally supplemented with TASE (250 and 500 mg/kg), thymol (50 and 100 mg/kg), vehicle, and positive controls. The supplementation significantly upregulated the expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and early neuritogenesis markers in the pups' brains at post-natal day 1 (P1). Similarly, the BDNF level was significantly upregulated in the P12 pups' brains. Furthermore, TASE (75 and 100 µg/mL) and thymol (10 and 20 µM) enhanced the neuronal polarity, early neurite arborization, and maturation of hippocampal neurons in a dose-dependent manner in primary hippocampal cultures. The stimulatory activities of TASE and thymol on neurite extension involved TrkB signaling, as evidenced by attenuation via ANA-12 (5 µM), which is a specific TrkB inhibitor. Moreover, TASE and thymol rescued the nocodazole-induced blunted neurite extension in primary hippocampal cultures, suggesting their role as a potent microtubule stabilizing agent. These findings demonstrate the potent capacities of TASE and thymol in promoting neuronal development and reconstruction of neuronal circuitry, which are often compromised in neurodegenerative diseases and acute brain injuries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Binod Timalsina
- Department of Anatomy, Dongguk University College of Medicine, Gyeongju 38066, Republic of Korea
| | - Md Nazmul Haque
- Department of Anatomy, Dongguk University College of Medicine, Gyeongju 38066, Republic of Korea
- Department of Fisheries Biology and Genetics, Patuakhali Science and Technology University, Patuakhali 8602, Bangladesh
| | - Raju Dash
- Department of Anatomy, Dongguk University College of Medicine, Gyeongju 38066, Republic of Korea
| | - Ho Jin Choi
- Department of Anatomy, Dongguk University College of Medicine, Gyeongju 38066, Republic of Korea
| | - Nisha Ghimire
- Department of Life Science and Biochemical Engineering, Graduate School, Sun Moon University, Asan 31460, Republic of Korea
| | - Il Soo Moon
- Department of Anatomy, Dongguk University College of Medicine, Gyeongju 38066, Republic of Korea
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Tang J, Zou Y, Gong Y, Xu Z, Wan J, Wei G, Zhang Q. Molecular Mechanism in the Disruption of Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy-Related R3-R4 Tau Protofibril by Quercetin and Gallic Acid: Similarities and Differences. ACS Chem Neurosci 2023; 14:897-908. [PMID: 36749931 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.2c00688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) is a unique progressive neurodegenerative tauopathy pathologically related to the aggregation of the tau protein to neurofibrillary tangles. Disrupting tau oligomers (protofibril) is a promising strategy to prevent CTE. Quercetin (QE) and gallic acid (GA), two polyphenol small molecules abundant in natural crops, were proved to inhibit recombinant tau and the R3 fragment of human full-length tau in vitro. However, their disruptive effect on CTE-related protofibril and the underlying molecular mechanism remain elusive. Cryo-electron microscopy resolution reveals that the R3-R4 fragment of tau forms the core of the CTE-related tau protofibril. In this study, we conducted extensive all-atom molecular dynamics simulations on CTE-related R3-R4 tau protofibril with and without QE/GA molecules. The results disclose that both QE and GA can disrupt the global structure of the protofibril, while GA shows a relatively strong effect. The binding sites, exact binding patterns, and disruptive modes for the two molecules show similarities and differences. Strikingly, both QE and GA can insert into the hydrophobic cavity of the protofibril, indicating they have the potential to compete for the space in the cavity with aggregation cofactors unique to CTE-related protofibril and thus impede the further aggregation of the tau protein. Due to relatively short time scale, our study captures the early disruptive mechanism of CTE-related R3-R4 tau protofibril by QE/GA. However, our research does provide valuable knowledge for the design of supplements or drugs to prevent or delay the development of CTE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaxing Tang
- School of Physical Education, Shanghai University of Sport, 399 Changhai Road, Shanghai 200438, People's Republic of China
| | - Yu Zou
- Department of Sport and Exercise Science, College of Education, Zhejiang University, 886 Yuhangtang Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, People's Republic of China
| | - Yehong Gong
- School of Sports Science and Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, 130 Meilong Road, Shanghai 200237, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhengdong Xu
- School of Physical Education, Shanghai University of Sport, 399 Changhai Road, Shanghai 200438, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiaqian Wan
- School of Physical Education, Shanghai University of Sport, 399 Changhai Road, Shanghai 200438, People's Republic of China
| | - Guanghong Wei
- Department of Physics, State Key Laboratory of Surface Physics, and Key Laboratory for Computational Physical Sciences (Ministry of Education), Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, People's Republic of China
| | - Qingwen Zhang
- School of Physical Education, Shanghai University of Sport, 399 Changhai Road, Shanghai 200438, People's Republic of China
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Khan S, Hassan MI, Shahid M, Islam A. Nature's Toolbox Against Tau Aggregation: An Updated Review of Current Research. Ageing Res Rev 2023; 87:101924. [PMID: 37004844 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2023.101924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2023] [Revised: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023]
Abstract
Tau aggregation is a hallmark of several neurodegenerative disorders, such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), frontotemporal dementia, and progressive supranuclear palsy. Hyperphosphorylated tau is believed to contribute to the degeneration of neurons and the development of these complex diseases. Therefore, one potential treatment for these illnesses is to prevent or counteract tau aggregation. In recent years, interest has been increasing in developing nature-derived tau aggregation inhibitors as a potential treatment for neurodegenerative disorders. Researchers have become increasingly interested in natural compounds with multifunctional features, such as flavonoids, alkaloids, resveratrol, and curcumin, since these molecules can interact simultaneously with the various targets of AD. Recent studies have demonstrated that several natural compounds can inhibit tau aggregation and promote the disassembly of pre-formed tau aggregates. Nature-derived tau aggregation inhibitors hold promise as a potential treatment for neurodegenerative disorders. However, it is important to note that more research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms by which these compounds exert their effects and their safety and efficacy in preclinical and clinical studies. Nature-derived inhibitors of tau aggregation are a promising new direction in the research of neurodegenerative complexities. This review focuses on the natural products that have proven to be a rich supply for inhibitors in tau aggregation and their uses in neurodegenerative complexities, including AD.
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Moratilla-Rivera I, Sánchez M, Valdés-González JA, Gómez-Serranillos MP. Natural Products as Modulators of Nrf2 Signaling Pathway in Neuroprotection. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24043748. [PMID: 36835155 PMCID: PMC9967135 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24043748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Revised: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 02/11/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) affect the West due to the increase in life expectancy. Nervous cells accumulate oxidative damage, which is one of the factors that triggers and accelerates neurodegeneration. However, cells have mechanisms that scavenge reactive oxygen species (ROS) and alleviate oxidative stress (OS). Many of these endogenous antioxidant systems are regulated at the gene expression level by the transcription factor Nrf2 (nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2). In the presence of prooxidant conditions, Nrf2 translocates to the nucleus and induces the transcription of genes containing ARE (antioxidant response element). In recent years, there has been an increase in the study of the Nrf2 pathway and the natural products that positively regulate it to reduce oxidative damage to the nervous system, both in in vitro models with neurons and microglia subjected to stress factors and in vivo models using mainly murine models. Quercetin, curcumin, anthocyanins, tea polyphenols, and other less studied phenolic compounds such as kaempferol, hesperetin, and icariin can also modulate Nrf2 by regulating several Nrf2 upstream activators. Another group of phytochemical compounds that upregulate this pathway are terpenoids, including monoterpenes (aucubin, catapol), diterpenes (ginkgolides), triterpenes (ginsenosides), and carotenoids (astaxanthin, lycopene). This review aims to update the knowledge on the influence of secondary metabolites of health interest on the activation of the Nrf2 pathway and their potential as treatments for NDs.
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Nik Akhtar S, Bunner WP, Brennan E, Lu Q, Szatmari EM. Crosstalk between the Rho and Rab family of small GTPases in neurodegenerative disorders. Front Cell Neurosci 2023; 17:1084769. [PMID: 36779014 PMCID: PMC9911442 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2023.1084769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurodegeneration is associated with defects in cytoskeletal dynamics and dysfunctions of the vesicular trafficking and sorting systems. In the last few decades, studies have demonstrated that the key regulators of cytoskeletal dynamics are proteins from the Rho family GTPases, meanwhile, the central hub for vesicle sorting and transport between target membranes is the Rab family of GTPases. In this regard, the role of Rho and Rab GTPases in the induction and maintenance of distinct functional and morphological neuronal domains (such as dendrites and axons) has been extensively studied. Several members belonging to these two families of proteins have been associated with many neurodegenerative disorders ranging from dementia to motor neuron degeneration. In this analysis, we attempt to present a brief review of the potential crosstalk between the Rab and Rho family members in neurodegenerative pathologies such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), Huntington disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).
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Affiliation(s)
- Shayan Nik Akhtar
- The Harriet and John Wooten Laboratory for Alzheimer’s and Neurodegenerative Diseases Research, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, United States
| | - Wyatt P. Bunner
- Laboratory of Neuroscience, Department of Physical Therapy, College of Allied Health Sciences, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, United States
| | - Elizabeth Brennan
- Laboratory of Neuroscience, Department of Physical Therapy, College of Allied Health Sciences, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, United States
| | - Qun Lu
- The Harriet and John Wooten Laboratory for Alzheimer’s and Neurodegenerative Diseases Research, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, United States,*Correspondence: Erzsebet M. Szatmari Qun Lu
| | - Erzsebet M. Szatmari
- Laboratory of Neuroscience, Department of Physical Therapy, College of Allied Health Sciences, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, United States,*Correspondence: Erzsebet M. Szatmari Qun Lu
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Weng ZK, Lin TH, Chang KH, Chiu YJ, Lin CH, Tseng PH, Sun YC, Lin W, Lee-Chen GJ, Chen CM. Using ΔK280 Tau RD Folding Reporter Cells to Screen TRKB Agonists as Alzheimer's Disease Treatment Strategy. Biomolecules 2023; 13:biom13020219. [PMID: 36830589 PMCID: PMC9953660 DOI: 10.3390/biom13020219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Revised: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Misfolded aggregation of the hyperphosphorylated microtubule binding protein Tau in the brain is a pathological hallmark of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Tau aggregation downregulates brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF)/tropomycin receptor kinase B (TRKB) signaling and leads to neurotoxicity. Therefore, enhancement of BDNF/TRKB signaling could be a strategy to alleviate Tau neurotoxicity. In this study, eight compounds were evaluated for the potential of inhibiting Tau misfolding in human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells expressing the pro-aggregator Tau folding reporter (ΔK280 TauRD-DsRed). Among them, coumarin derivative ZN-015 and quinoline derivatives VB-030 and VB-037 displayed chemical chaperone activity to reduce ΔK280 TauRD aggregation and promote neurite outgrowth. Studies of TRKB signaling revealed that ZN-015, VB-030 and VB-037 treatments significantly increased phosphorylation of TRKB and downstream Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII), extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK) and AKT serine/threonine kinase (AKT), to activate ribosomal S6 kinase (RSK) and cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB). Subsequently, p-CREB enhanced the transcription of pro-survival BDNF and BCL2 apoptosis regulator (BCL2), accompanied with reduced expression of anti-survival BCL2-associated X protein (BAX) in ΔK280 TauRD-DsRed-expressing cells. The neurite outgrowth promotion effect of ZN-015, VB-030 and VB-037 was counteracted by a RNA interference-mediated knockdown of TRKB, suggesting the role of these compounds acting as TRKB agonists. Tryptophan fluorescence quenching analysis showed that ZN-015, VB-030 and VB-037 interacted directly with a Pichia pastoris-expressed TRKB extracellular domain, indirectly supporting the role through TRKB signaling. The results of up-regulation in TRKB signaling open up the therapeutic potentials of ZN-015, VB-030 and VB-037 for AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng-Kui Weng
- Department of Life Science, National Taiwan Normal University, Taipei 106, Taiwan
| | - Te-Hsien Lin
- Department of Neurology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, School of Medicine, Chang-Gung University, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
| | - Kuo-Hsuan Chang
- Department of Neurology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, School of Medicine, Chang-Gung University, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
| | - Ya-Jen Chiu
- Department of Life Science, National Taiwan Normal University, Taipei 106, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Hsin Lin
- Department of Neurology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, School of Medicine, Chang-Gung University, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
| | - Pei-Hsuan Tseng
- Department of Life Science, National Taiwan Normal University, Taipei 106, Taiwan
| | - Ying-Chieh Sun
- Department of Chemistry, National Taiwan Normal University, Taipei 106, Taiwan
| | - Wenwei Lin
- Department of Chemistry, National Taiwan Normal University, Taipei 106, Taiwan
| | - Guey-Jen Lee-Chen
- Department of Life Science, National Taiwan Normal University, Taipei 106, Taiwan
- Correspondence: (G.-J.L.-C.); (C.-M.C.)
| | - Chiung-Mei Chen
- Department of Neurology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, School of Medicine, Chang-Gung University, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
- Correspondence: (G.-J.L.-C.); (C.-M.C.)
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Zhang Y, Wang M, Chang W. Iron dyshomeostasis and ferroptosis in Alzheimer’s disease: Molecular mechanisms of cell death and novel therapeutic drugs and targets for AD. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:983623. [PMID: 36188557 PMCID: PMC9523169 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.983623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a degenerative disease of the central nervous system that is the most common type of senile dementia. Ferroptosis is a new type of iron-dependent programmed cell death identified in recent years that is different from other cell death forms. Ferroptosis is induced by excessive accumulation of lipid peroxides and reactive oxygen species (ROS) in cells. In recent years, it has been found that ferroptosis plays an important role in the pathological process of AD. Iron dyshomeostasis contribute to senile plaques (SP) deposition and neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs). Iron metabolism imbalance in brain and the dysfunction of endogenous antioxidant systems including system Xc- and glutathione peroxidase (GPX) are closely related to the etiopathogenesis of AD. Dysfunction of nuclear receptor coactivator 4 (NCOA4)-mediated ferritinophagy induced ferroptosis can accelerates the pathological process of AD. In addition, NRF2, through regulating the expression of a considerable number of genes related to ferroptosis, including genes related to iron and glutathione metabolism, plays an important role in the development of AD. Here, we review the potential interaction between AD and ferroptosis and the major pathways regulating ferroptosis in AD. We also review the active natural and synthetic compounds such as iron chelators, lipid peroxidation inhibitors and antioxidants available to treat AD by alleviating iron dyshomeostasis and preventing ferroptosis in mice and cell models to provide valuable information for the future treatment and prevention of AD.
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Qiao J, Zhao Y, Liu Y, Zhang S, Zhao W, Liu S, Liu M. Neuroprotective effect of Ginsenoside Re against neurotoxin‑induced Parkinson's disease models via induction of Nrf2. Mol Med Rep 2022; 25:215. [PMID: 35543148 PMCID: PMC9133950 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2022.12731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to examine the neuroprotective effects of a panel of active components of ginseng and to explore their molecular mechanisms of action in two rotenone (Rot)-induced models of Parkinson's disease: An in vitro model using the human neuroblastoma cell line SH-SY5Y and an in vivo model using Drosophila. Ginsenoside Re (Re) was identified as the most potent inhibitor of Rot-induced cytotoxicity in SH-SY5Y cells by Cell Counting kit-8 assay and lactate dehydrogenase release assay. Flow cytometry, Hoechst staining, Rhodamine 123 staining, ATP and cytochrome c release revealed that Re rescue of Rot-induced mitochondrial dysfunction and inhibition of the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway. Western blot analysis demonstrated that Re alleviated Rot-induced oxidative stress by activating the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) anti-oxidant pathway, and these effects were abolished by RNA interference-mediated knockdown of Nrf2. Re enhanced phosphorylation of components of the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (AKT) and extracellular regulated protein kinase (ERK) pathways, and pharmacological inhibition of these pathways reduced Re-mediated Nrf2 activation and neuroprotection. In the Drosophila model, Immunofluorescence microscopy, reactive oxygen species (ROS), hydrogen peroxide and knockdown analysis revealed that Re reversed Rot-induced motor deficits and dopaminergic neuron loss while concomitantly alleviating Rot-induced oxidative damage. The findings of the present study suggest that Re protects neurons against Rot-induced mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative damage, at least in part, by inducing Nrf2/heme oxygenase-1 expression and activation of the dual PI3K/AKT and ERK pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juhui Qiao
- Jilin Ginseng Academy, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, Jilin 130117, P.R. China
| | - Yuchu Zhao
- Jilin Ginseng Academy, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, Jilin 130117, P.R. China
| | - Ying Liu
- Jilin Ginseng Academy, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, Jilin 130117, P.R. China
| | - Siyu Zhang
- Jilin Ginseng Academy, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, Jilin 130117, P.R. China
| | - Wenxue Zhao
- Jilin Ginseng Academy, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, Jilin 130117, P.R. China
| | - Shichao Liu
- Jilin Ginseng Academy, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, Jilin 130117, P.R. China
| | - Meichen Liu
- Jilin Ginseng Academy, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, Jilin 130117, P.R. China
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