Sinomenine hydrochloride ameliorates dextran sulfate sodium-induced colitis in mice by modulating the gut microbiota composition whilst suppressing the activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome

Sinomenine regulates the cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway to inhibit TLR4/NF-κB pathway and protect the homeostasis in brain and gut in scopolamine-induced Alzheimer's disease mice

Sinomenine (SIN), an alkaloid extracted from the Chinese herbal medicine Sinomenium acutum, has great potential in anti-inflammatory, immune regulation, analgesic and sedative, and is already a clinical drug for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis in China. Our previous studies show SIN inhibits inflammation by regulating ɑ7nAChR, a key receptor of cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway (CAP), which plays an important role in regulating peripheral and central nervous system inflammation. Growing evidence supports the cholinergic dysregulation and inflammatory responses play the key role in the pathogenesis of AD. The intervention effects of SIN on AD by regulating CAP and homeostasis in brain and gut were analyzed for the first time in the present study using scopolamine-induced AD model mice. Behavioral tests were used to assess the cognitive performance. The neurons loss, cholinergic function, inflammation responses, biological barrier function in the mouse brain and intestinal tissues were evaluated through a variety of techniques, and the gut microbiota was detected using 16SrRNA sequencing. The results showed that SIN significantly inhibited the cognitive decline, dysregulation of cholinergic system, peripheral and central inflammation, biological barrier damage as well as intestinal flora disturbance caused by SCOP in mice. More importantly, SIN effectively regulated CAP to suppress the activation of TLR4/NF-κB and protect the homeostasis in brain and gut to alleviate cognitive impairment.

Bioactivities and Mechanisms of Action of Sinomenine and Its Derivatives: A Comprehensive Review

Sinomenine, an isoquinoline alkaloid extracted from the roots and stems of Sinomenium acutum, has been extensively studied for its derivatives as bioactive agents. This review concentrates on the research advancements in the biological activities and action mechanisms of sinomenine-related compounds until November 2023. The findings indicate a broad spectrum of pharmacological effects, including antitumor, anti-inflammation, neuroprotection, and immunosuppressive properties. These compounds are notably effective against breast, lung, liver, and prostate cancers, exhibiting IC50 values of approximately 121.4 nM against PC-3 and DU-145 cells, primarily through the PI3K/Akt/mTOR, NF-κB, MAPK, and JAK/STAT signaling pathways. Additionally, they manifest anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects predominantly via the NF-κB, MAPK, and Nrf2 signaling pathways. Utilized in treating rheumatic arthritis, these alkaloids also play a significant role in cardiovascular and cerebrovascular protection, as well as organ protection through the NF-κB, Nrf2, MAPK, and PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathways. This review concludes with perspectives and insights on this topic, highlighting the potential of sinomenine-related compounds in clinical applications and the development of medications derived from natural products.

Potential efficacy and mechanism of eight mild-natured and bitter-flavored TCMs based on gut microbiota: A review

The mild-natured and bitter-flavored traditional Chinese medicines (MB-TCMs) are an important class of TCMs that have been widely used in clinical practice and recognized as safe long-term treatments for chronic diseases. However, as an important class of TCMs, the panorama of pharmacological effects and the mechanisms of MB-TCMs have not been systemically reviewed. Compelling studies have shown that gut microbiota can mediate the therapeutic activity of TCMs and help to elucidate the core principles of TCM medicinal theory. In this systematic review, we found that MB-TCMs commonly participated in the modulation of metabolic syndrome, intestinal inflammation, nervous system disease and cardiovascular system disease in association with promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria Bacteroides, Akkermansia, Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, Roseburia as well as inhibiting the proliferation of harmful bacteria Helicobacter, Enterococcus, Desulfovibrio and Escherichia-Shigella. These alterations, correspondingly, enhance the generation of protective metabolites, mainly including short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), bile acid (BAs), 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT), indole and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), and inhibit the generation of harmful metabolites, such as proinflammatory factors trimethylamine oxide (TAMO) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS), to further exert multiplicative effects for the maintenance of human health through several different signaling pathways. Altogether, this present review has attempted to comprehensively summarize the relationship between MB-TCMs and gut microbiota by establishing the TCMs-gut microbiota-metabolite-signaling pathway-diseases axis, which may provide new insight into the study of TCM medicinal theories and their clinical applications.

Pharmacological mechanisms of sinomenine in anti-inflammatory immunity and osteoprotection in rheumatoid arthritis: A systematic review

BACKGROUND

Sinomenine (SIN) is the main pharmacologically active component of Sinomenii Caulis and protects against rheumatoid arthritis (RA). In recent years, many studies have been conducted to elucidate the pharmacological mechanisms of SIN in the treatment of RA. However, the molecular mechanism of SIN in RA has not been fully elucidated.

PURPOSE

To summarize the pharmacological effects and molecular mechanisms of SIN in RA and clarify the most valuable regulatory mechanisms of SIN to provide clues and a basis for basic research and clinical applications.

METHODS

We systematically searched SciFinder, Web of Science, PubMed, China National Knowledge Internet (CNKI), the Wanfang Databases, and the Chinese Scientific Journal Database (VIP). We organized our work based on the PRISMA statement and selected studies for review based on predefined selection criteria.

OUTCOME

After screening, we identified 201 relevant studies, including 88 clinical trials and 113 in vivo and in vitro studies on molecular mechanisms. Among these studies, we selected key results for reporting and analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

We found that most of the known pharmacological mechanisms of SIN are indirect effects on certain signaling pathways or proteins. SIN was manifested to reduce the release of inflammatory cytokines such as Tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), Interleukin-6 (IL-6), and IL-1β, thereby reducing the inflammatory response, and apparently blocking the destruction of bone and cartilage. The regulatory effects on inflammation and bone destruction make SIN a promising drug to treat RA. More notably, we believe that the modulation of α7nAChR and the regulation of methylation levels at specific GCG sites in the mPGES-1 promoter by SIN, and its mechanism of directly targeting GBP5, certainly enriches the possibilities and the underlying rationale for SIN in the treatment of inflammatory immune-related diseases.

Progress on Regulation of NLRP3 Inflammasome by Chinese Medicine in Treatment of Ulcerative Colitis

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic, non-specific intestinal disease that not only affects the quality of life of patients and their families but also increases the risk of colorectal cancer. The nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-like receptor family pyrin domain-containing protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome is an important component of inflammatory response system, and its activation induces an inflammatory cascade response that is involved in the development and progression of UC by releasing inflammatory cytokines, damaging intestinal epithelial cells, and disrupting the intestinal mucosal barrier. Chinese medicine (CM) plays a vital role in the prevention and treatment of UC and is able to regulate NLRP3 inflammasome. Many experimental studies on the regulation of NLRP3 inflammasome mediated by CM have been carried out, demonstrating that CM formulae with main effects of clearing heat, detoxifying toxicity, drying dampness, and activating blood circulation. Flavonoids and phenylpropanoids can effectively regulate NLRP3 inflammasome. Other active components of CM can interfere with the process of NLRP3 inflammasome assembly and activation, leading to a reduction in inflammation and UC symptoms. However, the reports are relatively scattered and lack systematic reviews. This paper reviews the latest findings regarding the NLRP3 inflammasome activation-related pathways associated with UC and the potential of CM in treating UC through modulation of NLRP3 inflammasome. The purpose of this review is to explore the possible pathological mechanisms of UC and suggest new directions for development of therapeutic tools.

A review on pharmacokinetics of sinomenine and its anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects

Autoimmune diseases (ADs), with significant effects on morbidity and mortality, are a broad spectrum of disorders featured by body's immune responses being directed against its own tissues, resulting in chronic inflammation and tissue damage. Sinomenine (SIN) is an alkaloid isolated from the root and stem of Sinomenium acutum which is mainly used to treat pain, inflammation and immune disorders for centuries in China. Its potential anti-inflammatory role for treating immune-related disorders in experimental animal models and in some clinical applications have been reported widely, suggesting an inspiring application prospect of SIN. In this review, the pharmacokinetics, drug delivery systems, pharmacological mechanisms of action underlying the anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects of SIN, and the possibility of SIN as adjuvant to disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) therapy were summarized and evaluated. This paper aims to reveal the potential prospects and limitations of SIN in the treatment of inflammatory and immune diseases, and to provide ideas for compensating its limitations and reducing the side effects, and thus to make SIN better translate to the clinic.

Sinomenine attenuated dextran sulfate sodium-induced inflammatory responses by promoting 14-3-3θ protein and inhibiting NF-κB signaling

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The rhizome of Chinese medical plant QingTeng (scientific name: Sinomenium acutum (Thunb.) Rehd. et Wils.) is widely used by traditional medical doctors for anti-inflammation and immunoregulatory in China and other Asian countries.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects and possible mechanisms of sinomenine resistance against DSS-induced inflammation in vitro and in vivo.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The UC model was induced by treating female mice with 3% DSS in vivo and human colonic epithelial cells (Hcoepic) with 0.8 mg/ml DSS in vitro. The mice and Hcoepic were then treated with sinomenine. Inflammatory factors were detected using ELISA and qRT-PCR. Nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) p65 and 14-3-3θ were analyzed by bioinformatic analysis and verified by western blotting, immunofluorescent staining or immunohistochemistry.

RESULTS

DSS-induced Hcoepic underwent high inflammation and oxidative stress conditions, whereas sinomenine reduced the uncontrolled immune microenvironment by suppressing NF-κB signaling and targeting 14-3-3θ. Knockdown of 14-3-3θ decreased the protective effect of sinomenine against DSS-induced inflammation in vitro. Moreover, sinomenine promoted 14-3-3θ protein expression and inhibited NF-κB p65 signaling in DSS-induced mice.

CONCLUSION

These findings suggest that 14-3-3θ plays an important role in sinomenine against DSS treatment, and sinomenine could be considered a potential drug for the treatment of UC.

Therapeutic interventions target the NLRP3 inflammasome in ulcerative colitis: Comprehensive study

One of the significant health issues in the world is the prevalence of ulcerative colitis (UC). UC is a chronic disorder that mainly affects the colon, beginning with the rectum, and can progress from asymptomatic mild inflammation to extensive inflammation of the entire colon. Understanding the underlying molecular mechanisms of UC pathogenesis emphasizes the need for innovative therapeutic approaches based on identifying molecular targets. Interestingly, in response to cellular injury, the NLR family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome is a crucial part of the inflammation and immunological reaction by promoting caspase-1 activation and the release of interleukin-1β. This review discusses the mechanisms of NLRP3 inflammasome activation by various signals and its regulation and impact on UC.

Protective effects of sinomenine hydrochloride on lead-induced oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis in mouse liver

Lead, one of the most common heavy metal toxins, seriously affects the health of humans and animals. Sinomenine hydrochloride (SH) shows antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and anticancer properties. Hence, this study investigated the protective effects of SH against Pb-induced liver injury and explored the underlying mechanisms. First, a mouse model of lead acetate (0.5 g/L lead acetate in water, 8 weeks) was established, and SH (100 mg/kg bw in water, 8 weeks) intervention was administered by gavage. Then, the protective effect of SH against lead-induced liver injury was evaluated through serum biochemical analysis, histopathological analysis, and determination of malondialdehyde (MDA) and total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) levels. The messenger RNA (mRNA) expression levels of the cytokines IL-1β and TNF-α and the apoptosis factors Bax, Bcl-2, and Caspase3 in the liver were detected by quantitative real-time PCR. Then, the expression levels of IL-1β and TNF-α in the liver were detected by ELISA. Immunohistochemical determination of the expression of the apoptosis factors Bax, Bcl-2, and Caspase3 was performed. SH treatment reduced the levels of liver alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase (AST), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and MDA in Pb-treated mice, indicating that SH protected the liver from injury and oxidative stress in Pb-treated mice. SH also increased the liver T-AOC of Pb-treated mice. Quantitative real-time PCR, ELISA, and immunohistochemical analysis showed that SH inhibited apoptosis, as indicated by the regulation of the mRNA expression of Bax and Bcl-2 and the reduced expression of Caspase3 and pro-inflammatory factors (IL-1β and TNF-α) in the livers of Pb-treated mice. These results suggest that SH protects the mouse liver from Pb-induced injury. The underlying mechanism involves antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic processes.

Ecological and dynamic analysis of gut microbiota in the early stage of azomethane-dextran sodium sulfate model in mice

The success rate of azomethane-dextran sodium sulfate (AOM-DSS) model in mice has been a long-standing problem. Treatment of AOM and the first round DSS induces acute colitis and is of great significance for the success of AOM-DSS model. In this study, we focused on the role of gut microbiota in the early stage of AOM-DSS model. Few mice with obvious weight loss and high disease-activity score survived from double strike of AOM and the first round DSS. Different ecological dynamics of gut microbiota were observed in AOM-DSS treated mice. Pseudescherichia, Turicibacter, and Clostridium_XVIII were of significance in the model, uncontrolled proliferation of which accompanied with rapid deterioration and death of mice. Akkermansia and Ruthenibacterium were significantly enriched in the alive AOM-DSS treated mice. Decrease of Ligilactobacillus, Lactobacillus, and Limosilactobacillus were observed in AOM-DSS model, but significant drop of these genera could be lethal. Millionella was the only hub genus of gut microbiota network in dead mice, which indicated dysbiosis of the intestinal flora and fragility of microbial network. Our results will provide a better understanding for the role of gut microbiota in the early stage of AOM-DSS model and help improve the success rate of model construction.

Interplay between Gut Microbiota and NLRP3 Inflammasome in Intracerebral Hemorrhage

The pathophysiological process of intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is very complex, involving various mechanisms such as apoptosis, oxidative stress and inflammation. As one of the key factors, the inflammatory response is responsible for the pathological process of acute brain injury and is associated with the prognosis of patients. Abnormal or dysregulated inflammatory responses after ICH can aggravate cell damage in the injured brain tissue. The NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain-containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome is a multiprotein complex distributed in the cytosol, which can be triggered by multiple signals. The NLRP3 inflammasome is activated after ICH, thus promoting neuroinflammation and aggravating brain edema. In addition, there is evidence that the gut microbiota is crucial in the activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome. The gut microbiota plays a key role in a variety of CNS disorders. Changes in the diversity and species of the gut microbiota affect neuroinflammation through the activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome and the release of inflammatory cytokines. In turn, the gut microbiota composition can be influenced by the activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome. Thereby, the regulation of the microbe-gut-brain axis via the NLRP3 inflammasome may serve as a novel idea for protecting against secondary brain injury (SBI) in ICH patients. Here, we review the recent evidence on the functions of the NLRP3 inflammasome and the gut microbiota in ICH, as well as their interactions, during the pathological process of ICH.

Sinomenine Hydrochloride Ameliorates Fish Foodborne Enteritis via α7nAchR-Mediated Anti-Inflammatory Effect Whilst Altering Microbiota Composition

Foodborne intestinal inflammation is a major health and welfare issue in aquaculture. To prevent enteritis, various additives have been incorporated into the fish diet. Considering anti-inflammatory immune regulation, an effective natural compound could potentially treat or prevent intestinal inflammation. Our previous study has revealed galantamine’s effect on soybean induced enteritis (SBMIE) and has highlighted the possible role of the cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway in the fish gut. To further activate the intestinal cholinergic related anti-inflammatory function, α7nAchR signaling was considered. In this study, sinomenine, a typical agonist of α7nAChR in mammals, was tested to treat fish foodborne enteritis via its potential anti-inflammation effect using the zebrafish foodborne enteritis model. After sinomenine’s dietary inclusion, results suggested that there was an alleviation of intestinal inflammation at a pathological level. This outcome was demonstrated through the improved morphology of intestinal villi. At a molecular level, SN suppressed inflammatory cytokines’ expression (especially for tnf-α) and upregulated anti-inflammation-related functions (indicated by expression of il-10, il-22, and foxp3a). To systematically understand sinomenine’s intestinal effect on SBMIE, transcriptomic analysis was done on the SBMIE adult fish model. DEGs (sinomenine vs soybean meal groups) were enriched in GO terms related to the negative regulation of lymphocyte/leukocyte activation and alpha-beta T cell proliferation, as well as the regulation of lymphocyte migration. The KEGG pathways for glycolysis and insulin signaling indicated metabolic adjustments of α7nAchR mediated anti-inflammatory effect. To demonstrate the immune cells’ response, in the SBMIE larva model, inflammatory gatherings of neutrophils, macrophages, and lymphocytes caused by soybean meal could be relieved significantly with the inclusion of sinomenine. This was consistent within the sinomenine group as CD4⁺ or Foxp3⁺ lymphocytes were found with a higher proportion at the base of mucosal folds, which may suggest the Treg population. Echoing, the sinomenine group’s 16s sequencing result, there were fewer enteritis-related TM7, Sphingomonas and Shigella, but more Cetobacterium, which were related to glucose metabolism. Our findings indicate that sinomenine hydrochloride could be important in the prevention of fish foodborne enteritis at both immune and microbiota levels.