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Regulatory mechanism of icariin in cardiovascular and neurological diseases. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 158:114156. [PMID: 36584431 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.114156] [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] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Revised: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and neurological diseases are widespread diseases with substantial rates of morbidity and mortality around the world. For the past few years, the preventive effects of Chinese herbal medicine on CVDs and neurological diseases have attracted a great deal of attention. Icariin (ICA), the main constituent of Epimedii Herba, is a flavonoid. It has been shown to provide neuroprotection, anti-tumor, anti-osteoporosis, and cardiovascular protection. The endothelial protection, anti-inflammatory, hypolipidemic, antioxidative stress, and anti-apoptosis properties of ICA can help stop the progression of CVDs and neurological diseases. Therefore, our review summarized the known mechanisms and related studies of ICA in the prevention and treatment of cardio-cerebrovascular diseases (CCVDs), to better understand its therapeutic potential.
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Niu Y, Lin G, Pan J, Liu J, Xu Y, Cai Q, Wang T, Luan Y, Chen Y, Feng Y, Yang X, Tian W, Bae WJ, Guan R, Xin Z. Deciphering the myth of icariin and synthetic derivatives in improving erectile function from a molecular biology perspective: a narrative review. Transl Androl Urol 2022; 11:1007-1022. [PMID: 35958901 PMCID: PMC9360520 DOI: 10.21037/tau-22-232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 06/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Objective Although epimedium herb (EH) has been widely used in ancient Chinese medicine to enhance sexual activity, its pharmacological mechanism is not clear. Modern studies have shown that epimedium herb is rich in icariin (ICA, a flavonoid compound), and 91.2% of icariin is converted to icariside II (ICA II) by hydrolytic enzymes in intestinal bacteria after oral administration. YS-10 is a synthetic derivative of icariside II. The aim of this review was to summarize the contemporary evidence regarding the pharmacokinetics, therapeutic properties, and molecular biological mechanisms of ICA and some ICA derivatives for erectile dysfunction therapy. Methods A detailed search was conducted in the PubMed database using keywords and phrases, such as “icariin” AND “erectile dysfunction”, “icariside II” AND “erectile dysfunction”. The publication time is limited to last 20 years. Articles had to be published in peer reviewed journals. Key Content and Findings ICA and its some derivatives showed the specific inhibition on phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) and the promotion of testosterone synthesis. In addition, by regulating various reliable evidence of signaling pathways such as PI3K/AKT, TGFβ1/Smad2, p38/MAPK, Wnt and secretion of various cytokines, ICA and ICA derivatives can activate endogenous stem cells (ESCs) leading to endothelial cell and smooth muscle cell proliferation, nerve regeneration and fibrosis inhibition, repair pathological changes in penile tissue and improve erectile function. Conclusions ICA and some of its derivatives could be a potential treatment for restoring spontaneous erections. In addition ICA and his derivatives may also be valuable as a regenerative medicine approach for other diseases, but more clinical and basic researches with high quality and large samples are recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanjie Niu
- Department of Urology, Tianjin Institute of Urology, The Second Hospital of Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China.,China-Korea Joint Research Center for Male Reproductive and Sexual Medicine, Institute of Urology, Tianjin, China
| | - Guiting Lin
- Knuppe Molecular Urology Laboratory, Department of Urology, School of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Jiancheng Pan
- Department of Urology, Tianjin Institute of Urology, The Second Hospital of Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China.,China-Korea Joint Research Center for Male Reproductive and Sexual Medicine, Institute of Urology, Tianjin, China
| | - Jihong Liu
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Institute of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yongde Xu
- Department of Urology, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Qiliang Cai
- Department of Urology, Tianjin Institute of Urology, The Second Hospital of Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China.,China-Korea Joint Research Center for Male Reproductive and Sexual Medicine, Institute of Urology, Tianjin, China
| | - Tao Wang
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Institute of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yang Luan
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Institute of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yegang Chen
- Department of Urology, Tianjin Institute of Urology, The Second Hospital of Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China.,China-Korea Joint Research Center for Male Reproductive and Sexual Medicine, Institute of Urology, Tianjin, China
| | - Yuhong Feng
- Department of Urology, Tianjin Institute of Urology, The Second Hospital of Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China.,China-Korea Joint Research Center for Male Reproductive and Sexual Medicine, Institute of Urology, Tianjin, China
| | - Xiaoqing Yang
- China-Korea Joint Research Center for Male Reproductive and Sexual Medicine, Institute of Urology, Tianjin, China
| | - Wenjie Tian
- Department of Urology, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, the Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Wong Jin Bae
- Department of Urology, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, the Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Ruili Guan
- Andrology Center, Peking University First Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Zhongcheng Xin
- Department of Urology, Tianjin Institute of Urology, The Second Hospital of Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China.,China-Korea Joint Research Center for Male Reproductive and Sexual Medicine, Institute of Urology, Tianjin, China.,Andrology Center, Peking University First Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, China
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Zeng Y, Xiong Y, Yang T, Wang Y, Zeng J, Zhou S, Luo Y, Li L. Icariin and its metabolites as potential protective phytochemicals against cardiovascular disease: From effects to molecular mechanisms. Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 147:112642. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.112642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2021] [Revised: 01/07/2022] [Accepted: 01/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
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Hu Y, Li H, Li R, Wu Z, Yang W, Qu W. Puerarin protects vascular smooth muscle cells from oxidized low-density lipoprotein-induced reductions in viability via inhibition of the p38 MAPK and JNK signaling pathways. Exp Ther Med 2020; 20:270. [PMID: 33199995 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2020.9400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2020] [Accepted: 08/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Puerarin belongs to the family of flavonoids extracted from Pueraria lobata (Wild.) Ohwi, which exhibits antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, anti-hyperglycemic, antitumor, anti-hypertensive and anti-atherosclerotic activities. In the present study, the effects of puerarin on oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL)-stimulated vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) were explored to understand the mechanisms underlying the anti-atherosclerotic effects of puerarin. VSMCs were treated with various concentrations of puerarin (0, 20, 40 and 80 µM) prior to stimulation with ox-LDL (50 µg/ml). VSMC viability was evaluated by performing MTT and Cell Counting Kit-8 assays. Moreover, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were measured by performing ELISAs. The mRNA expression levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) were determined via reverse transcription-quantitative PCR. Western blotting was conducted to assess the levels of p38-MAPK and JNK phosphorylation. The results indicated that puerarin inhibited ox-LDL-induced VSMC viability. Moreover, puerarin significantly decreased the mRNA expression levels of IL-6 and TNF-α, significantly reduced the production of MDA and significantly increased SOD activity in ox-LDL-stimulated VSMCs. Puerarin also inhibited ox-LDL-induced phosphorylation of p38 and JNK in VSMCs. The results suggested that puerarin reduced ox-LDL-induced VSMC viability via inhibition of the p38 MAPK and JNK signaling pathways. The present study provided theoretical evidence that puerarin may serve as a therapeutic agent to reduce the development of atherosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanwu Hu
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Medicine, Tonghua Normal University, Tonghua, Jilin 134002, P.R. China
| | - Haitao Li
- Department of Pharmacy, Affiliated Hospital, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, Jilin 130021, P.R. China
| | - Ruili Li
- Department of Pharmacy, Affiliated Hospital, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, Jilin 130021, P.R. China
| | - Zijing Wu
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Medicine, Tonghua Normal University, Tonghua, Jilin 134002, P.R. China
| | - Wenxin Yang
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Medicine, Tonghua Normal University, Tonghua, Jilin 134002, P.R. China
| | - Wei Qu
- Department of Pharmacy, Affiliated Jiangyin Hospital of Southeast University Medical College, Jiangyin, Jiangsu 214400, P.R. China
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Zhang Y, Li M, Han X. Icariin affects cell cycle progression and proliferation of human retinal pigment epithelial cells via enhancing expression of H19. PeerJ 2020; 8:e8830. [PMID: 32219038 PMCID: PMC7087489 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.8830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2019] [Accepted: 03/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Aberrant proliferation of retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells under pathologic condition results in the occurrence of proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR). Icariin (ICA)-a flavonol glucoside-has been shown to inhibit proliferation of many cell types, but the effect on RPE cells is unknown. This study aimed to clarify the inhibitory effects of ICA on RPE cells against platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-BB-induced cell proliferation, and discuss the regulatory function of H19 in RPE cells. Methods MTS assay was conducted to determine the effects of ICA on cell proliferation. Flow cytometry analysis was performed to detect cell cycle progression. Quantitative real-time PCR and western blot assay were used to measure the expression patterns of genes in RPE cells. Results ICA significantly suppressed PDGF-BB-stimulated RPE cell proliferation in a concentration-dependent manner. Moreover, since administration of ICA induced cell cycle G0/G1 phase arrest, the anti-proliferative activity of ICA may be due to G0/G1 phase arrest in RPE cells. At molecular levels, cell cycle regulators cyclin D1, CDK4, CDK6, p21 and p53 were modulated in response to treatment with ICA. Most importantly, H19 was positively regulated by ICA and H19 depletion could reverse the inhibitory effects of ICA on cell cycle progression and proliferation in PDGF-BB-stimulated RPE cells. Further mechanical explorations showed that H19 knockdown resulted in alternative expressions levels of cyclin D1, CDK4, CDK6, p21 and p53 under ICA treatment. Conclusions Our findings revealed that ICA was an effective inhibitor of PDGF-BB-induced RPE cell proliferation through affecting the expression levels of cell cycle-associated factors, and highlighted the potential application of ICA in PVR therapy. H19 was described as a target regulatory gene of ICA whose disruption may contribute to excessive proliferation of RPE cells, suggesting that modulation of H19 expression may be a novel therapeutic approach to treat PVR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yibing Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Min Li
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Jilin University School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Changchun, China
| | - Xue Han
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
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Alamgeer, Asif H, Sandhu MZA, Aziz M, Irfan HM, Moreno KGT, Junior AG. Ameliorative Effects and Cellular Aspects of Phytoconstituents in Atherosclerosis. Curr Pharm Des 2020; 26:2574-2582. [PMID: 32056518 DOI: 10.2174/1381612826666200214161139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2019] [Accepted: 01/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Atherosclerosis is a cardiovascular disease that involves vessels through the development of fatty streaks and plaques. Plant-based compounds can help treat or prevent atherosclerosis by affecting various factors that are involved in the disease. The present review discusses our current knowledge of the major cellular and molecular mechanisms of phytotherapeutics for the treatment of atherosclerosis. Numerous studies have evaluated the antiatherosclerotic activity of phytoconstituents to provide preliminary evidence of efficacy, but only a few studies have delineated the underlying molecular mechanisms. Plant-derived phytotherapeutics primarily targets abnormal levels of lipoproteins, endothelial dysfunction, smooth muscle cell migration, foam cell development, and atheromatous plaque formation. Nonetheless, the principal mechanisms that are responsible for their therapeutic actions remain unclear. Further pharmacological studies are needed to elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms of the antiatherosclerotic response to these phytoconstituents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alamgeer
- Punjab University College of Pharmacy, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Hira Asif
- Punjab University College of Pharmacy, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan,Department of Pharmacy, University of Lahore, Gujrat Campus, Gujrat, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Z A Sandhu
- Punjab University College of Pharmacy, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Madiha Aziz
- Punjab University College of Pharmacy, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Hafiz M Irfan
- Punjab University College of Pharmacy, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Karyne G T Moreno
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research and Integrative Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, University of Sargodha, Sargodha, Pakistan
| | - Arquimedes Gasparotto Junior
- Laboratory of Electrophysiology and Cardiovascular Pharmacology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Federal University of Grande Dourados, Dourados, MS, Brazil
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Yang L, Xiao B, Hou L, Zhou G, Mo B, Yao D. Bioactive molecule Icariin inhibited proliferation while enhanced apoptosis and autophagy of rat airway smooth muscle cells in vitro. Cytotechnology 2019; 71:1109-1120. [PMID: 31583509 DOI: 10.1007/s10616-019-00348-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2018] [Accepted: 02/20/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Icariin is the main active compound extracted from epimedium Flavonoids (EFs) and involved in regulation of cell behaviors (proliferation, apoptosis, and autophagy etc.) for many cell types, but the effect of Icariin on airway smooth muscle cells (ASMCs) is still unknown. The aim of the present study is to examine the role of Icariin on rat ASMCs proliferation, apoptosis and autophagy. CKK8 assay showed that Icariin inhibited rat ASMCs growth in dose-time-dependent manner, and the flow cytometry assay showed that the Icariin interfered with ASMCs cell cycle, when treated with Icariin, S phase shortened while G2 phase extended, cyclin E1 and cyclinA1 gene and protein expression decreased. Next apoptosis was detected, Flow cytometry and TdTmediated dUTP Nick-End Labeling (TUNEL) assay showed that Icariin promoted ASMCs apoptosis, and enhanced apoptosis protein cleaved-caspase-3 expression. Finally, it was found Icariin induced rat ASMCs autophagy, with enhancement expression of autophagy marker LC3 II. In conclusion, Icariin inhibited ASMCs proliferation while promoted apoptosis and autophagy, revealing its potential role in treatment of airway remodeling in asthma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lihong Yang
- Department of Respiratory & Critical Care Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Guilin Medical University, Guilin, 541000, Guangxi, China
| | - Bo Xiao
- Department of Respiratory & Critical Care Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Guilin Medical University, Guilin, 541000, Guangxi, China
| | - Lixia Hou
- Department of Respiratory & Critical Care Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Guilin Medical University, Guilin, 541000, Guangxi, China
| | - Guiming Zhou
- Department of Respiratory & Critical Care Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Guilin Medical University, Guilin, 541000, Guangxi, China
| | - Biwen Mo
- Department of Respiratory & Critical Care Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Guilin Medical University, Guilin, 541000, Guangxi, China
| | - Dong Yao
- Department of Respiratory & Critical Care Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Guilin Medical University, Guilin, 541000, Guangxi, China.
- Key Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases of Colleges and Universities Affiliated Education Department of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Guilin, 541000, Guangxi, China.
- Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, The Affiliated Hospital of Guilin Medical University, Guilin, 541000, Guangxi, China.
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Epimedium koreanum Extract and Its Flavonoids Reduced Atherosclerotic Risk via Suppressing Modification of Human HDL. Nutrients 2019; 11:nu11051110. [PMID: 31109081 PMCID: PMC6566614 DOI: 10.3390/nu11051110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2019] [Revised: 05/15/2019] [Accepted: 05/16/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Atherosclerosis is the key factor responsible for cardiovascular events, which is a major cause of morbidities and mortalities worldwide. It is well known that high-density lipoprotein (HDL) oxidation and glycation increases the risk for atherosclerosis. Epimedium koreanum has been used as a traditional oriental medicine for treating erectile dysfunction, kidney diseases, osteoporosis, and breast cancer. However, no reports on the effects of E. koreanum on HDL modification exist. In this study, we investigated the inhibitory effects of E. koreanum extract and its eight flavonoids, which are: (1) anhydroicaritin 3-O-rhamnoside, (2) β-anhydroicaritin, (3–5) epimedins A-C, (6) epimedoside A, (7) icariin, and (8) des-O-methyl-β-anhydroicaritin, against HDL modification. HDLs obtained from pooled human plasma samples were incubated in vitro with E. koreanum extract or each compound in the presence of copper sulfate or fructose. The HDL modifications were evaluated by measuring generation of conjugated dienes, production of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances, change in electrophoretic mobility of apoA-I, advanced glycation end products formation, and apoA-I aggregation. Consequently, E. koreanum extract and compound 8 suppressed HDL modification through inhibition of lipid peroxidation, apoA-I aggregation, negative charge increase, and AGEs formation. In particular, compound 8 showed more potent inhibitory effect on HDL modification than the extracts, suggesting its protective role against atherosclerosis via inhibition of HDL oxidation and glycation.
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Sun S, Liu L, Tian X, Guo Y, Cao Y, Mei Y, Wang C. Icariin Attenuates High Glucose-Induced Apoptosis, Oxidative Stress, and Inflammation in Human Umbilical Venous Endothelial Cells. PLANTA MEDICA 2019; 85:473-482. [PMID: 30703815 DOI: 10.1055/a-0837-0975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Endothelial dysfunction is closely associated with diabetic complications. Icariin, a flavonoid glycoside isolated from the Epimedium plant species, exhibits antidiabetic properties. However, its impact on endothelial function remains poorly understood, particularly under hyperglycemia. In this study, we investigated the potential protective effect of icariin on high glucose-induced detrimental effects on vascular endothelial cells. Human umbilical venous endothelial cells were incubated in media containing 5.5 mM glucose (normal glucose) or 25 mM glucose (high glucose) in the presence or absence of 50 µM icariin for 72 h. We found that high glucose markedly induced cell apoptosis, enhanced reactive oxygen species generation, and elevated expression levels of inflammatory factors and cell adhesion molecules, which were greatly subdued by icariin supplementation. In conclusion, icariin exerted a beneficial effect on high glucose-induced endothelial dysfunction. This new finding provides a promising strategy for future treatment of diabetic vascular complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Si Sun
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Le Liu
- Department of Pathology & Pathophysiology, Wuhan University School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiaojun Tian
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, The Second People's Hospital of Jingzhou City, Jingzhou, China
| | - Yanghongyun Guo
- Department of Pathology & Pathophysiology, Wuhan University School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan, China
| | - Yingkang Cao
- Department of Pathology & Pathophysiology, Wuhan University School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan, China
| | - Yunqing Mei
- Department of Cardio-Thoracic Surgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Xiangyang No. 1 People's Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Xiangyang, China
- Karamay Central Hospital, Karamay, China
| | - Changhua Wang
- Department of Pathology & Pathophysiology, Wuhan University School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan, China
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Effects of Icariin on Atherosclerosis and Predicted Function Regulatory Network in ApoE Deficient Mice. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2018; 2018:9424186. [PMID: 30533443 PMCID: PMC6247691 DOI: 10.1155/2018/9424186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2018] [Revised: 10/02/2018] [Accepted: 10/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Objective. Icariin plays a pivotal role in ameliorating atherosclerosis for animal models although its comprehensive biological role remains largely unexplored. This study aimed to fully understand the effects of icariin on atherosclerosis in high-fat diet-induced ApoE-/- mice and investigate mRNA-miRNA regulation based on microarray and bioinformatics analysis. Methods. The areas of atherosclerotic lesions in en face aorta were evaluated. Microarray analysis was performed on atherosclerotic aortic tissues. The integrative analysis of mRNA and miRNA profiling was utilized to suggest specific functions of gene and supply an integrated and corresponding method to study the protective effect of icariin on atherosclerosis. Results. Icariin attenuated the development of atherosclerosis that the mean atherosclerotic lesion area was reduced by 5.8% (P < 0.05). Significant changes were observed in mRNA and miRNA expression patterns. Several miRNAs obtained from the miRNA-Gene-Network might play paramount part in antiatherosclerotic effect of icariin, such as mmu-miR-6931-5p, mmu-miR-3547-5p, mmu-miR-5107-5p, mmu-miR-6368, and mmu-miR-7118-5p. Specific miRNAs and GO terms associated with icariin in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis were validated using GO analysis and miRNA-GO-Network. MiRNA-Pathway-Network indicated that icariin induced miRNAs mainly regulate the signaling pathways of PI3K/Akt signaling pathway, Ras signaling pathway, ErbB signaling pathway, and VEGF signaling pathway in aorta atherosclerotic lesion. Conclusions. Our data provides evidence that icariin is able to exhibit one antiatherosclerotic action by mediating multiple biological processes or cascades, suggesting the pleiotropic effects of icariin in atherosclerosis alleviation. The identified gene functional categories and pathways are potentially valuable targets for future development of RNA-guided gene regulation to fight disease.
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Plant-Derived Products for Treatment of Vascular Intima Hyperplasia Selectively Inhibit Vascular Smooth Muscle Cell Functions. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2018; 2018:3549312. [PMID: 30405738 PMCID: PMC6201497 DOI: 10.1155/2018/3549312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2018] [Revised: 09/01/2018] [Accepted: 09/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Natural products are used widely for preventing intimal hyperplasia (IH), a common cardiovascular disease. Four different cells initiate and progress IH, namely, vascular smooth muscle, adventitial and endothelial cells, and circulation or bone marrow-derived cells. Vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) play a critical role in initiation and development of intimal thickening and formation of neointimal hyperplasia. In this review, we describe the different originating cells involved in vascular IH and emphasize the effect of different natural products on inhibiting abnormal cellular functions, such as VSMC proliferation and migration. We further present a classification for the different natural products like phenols, flavonoids, terpenes, and alkaloids that suppress VSMC growth. Abnormal VSMC physiology involves disturbance in MAPKs, PI3K/AKT, JAK-STAT, FAK, and NF-κB signal pathways. Most of the natural isolate studies have revealed G1/S phase of cell cycle arrest, decreased ROS production, induced cell apoptosis, restrained migration, and downregulated collagen deposition. It is necessary to screen optimal drugs from natural sources that preferentially inhibit VSMC rather than vascular endothelial cell growth to prevent early IH, restenosis following graft implantation, and atherosclerotic diseases.
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GAS5 promotes airway smooth muscle cell proliferation in asthma via controlling miR-10a/BDNF signaling pathway. Life Sci 2018; 212:93-101. [PMID: 30189218 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2018.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2018] [Revised: 08/22/2018] [Accepted: 09/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
AIMS To explore the role of long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) growth arrest-specific transcript 5 (GAS5) in the cell proliferation of airway smooth muscle cells (ASMCs) in asthma. MATERIALS AND METHODS An asthma rat model was established by ovalbumin sensitization and challenge. The expression of GAS5, miR-10a and BDNF mRNA and protein was determined with qRT-PCR and western blot, separately. The targeting relationship between GAS5 and miR-10a was examined with RNA immunoprecipitation and RNA pull-down assay; the interaction between miR-10a and BDNF was evaluated by luciferase reporter assay. Cell Proliferation Assay (MTS) was used for ASMC proliferation detection. Knock-down of GAS5 was performed in asthmatic rats to determine the effects of GAS5 in vivo. KEY FINDINGS Compared with control group, the inspiratory resistance and expiratory resistance were increased in asthma group; and the expression of GAS5, miR-10a and BDNF was higher, lower and higher, respectively. The expression of GAS5 and miR-10a was elevated and repressed, respectively, by platelet-derived growth factor-BB (PDGF-BB). GAS5 functioned as a bait of miR-10a. GAS5 regulates BDNF expression through miR-10a. PDGF-BB promotes the cell proliferation of ASMCs through miR-10a/BDNF. Knock-down of GAS5 significantly decreased airway hyperresponsiveness in asthmatic rats. SIGNIFICANCE The lncRNA GAS5/miR-10a/BDNF regulatory axis played an important role in promoting ASMCs proliferation, thus contributing to asthma.
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Huang Y, Shi R, Gong M, Zhang J, Li W, Song Q, Wu C, Tian W. Icariin-loaded electrospun PCL/gelatin sub-microfiber mat for preventing epidural adhesions after laminectomy. Int J Nanomedicine 2018; 13:4831-4844. [PMID: 30214191 PMCID: PMC6118333 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s169427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Epidural adhesion is one of the major reasons attributed to failed back surgery syndrome after a successful laminectomy, and results in serious clinical complications which require management from physicians. Therefore, there is an urgent demand within the field to develop biodegradable anti-adhesion membranes for the prevention of post-operative adhesion. METHODS In this study, icariin (ICA) was initially loaded into polycaprolactone (PCL)/gelatin fibers via electrospinning to fabricate nanofibrous membranes. The effects of the ICA content (0.5wt%, 2wt% and 5wt%) and the bioactivity of ICA in the nanofibrous membranes were investigated in vitro and in vivo. RESULTS The nanofibrous membranes showed suitable pore size and good properties that were unaffected by ICA concentration. Moreover, the ICA-loaded membranes exhibited an originally rapid and subsequently gradual sustained ICA release profile that could significantly prevent fibroblast adhesion and proliferation. In vivo studies with rabbit laminectomy models demonstrated that the ICA-loaded membranes effectively reduced epidural adhesion by gross observation, histology, and biochemical evaluation. The anti-adhesion mechanism of ICA was found to be via suppression of the TGF-β/Smad signaling proteins and down regulation of collage I/III and a-SMA expression for the first time. CONCLUSION We believe that these ICA-loaded PCL/gelatin electrospun membranes provide a novel and promising strategy to resist adhesion formation following laminectomy in a clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuelong Huang
- Department of Spine Surgery of Beijing Jishuitan Hospital, The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Peking University, Beijing 100035, China,
| | - Rui Shi
- Institute of Traumatology and Orthopaedics, Beijing Laboratory of Biomedical Materials, Beijing Jishuitan Hospital, Beijing 100035, China,
| | - Min Gong
- Beijing Laboratory of Biomedical Materials, State Key Laboratory of Organic-Inorganic Composites, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Jingshuang Zhang
- Institute of Traumatology and Orthopaedics, Beijing Laboratory of Biomedical Materials, Beijing Jishuitan Hospital, Beijing 100035, China,
| | - Weiyang Li
- Institute of Traumatology and Orthopaedics, Beijing Laboratory of Biomedical Materials, Beijing Jishuitan Hospital, Beijing 100035, China,
| | - Qingpeng Song
- Department of Spine Surgery of Beijing Jishuitan Hospital, The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Peking University, Beijing 100035, China,
| | - Chengai Wu
- Institute of Traumatology and Orthopaedics, Beijing Laboratory of Biomedical Materials, Beijing Jishuitan Hospital, Beijing 100035, China,
| | - Wei Tian
- Department of Spine Surgery of Beijing Jishuitan Hospital, The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Peking University, Beijing 100035, China,
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Qiao L, Chen W. Atheroprotective effects and molecular targets of bioactive compounds from traditional Chinese medicine. Pharmacol Res 2018; 135:212-229. [PMID: 30107203 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2018.07.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2018] [Revised: 06/12/2018] [Accepted: 07/12/2018] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has served the Chinese people since antiquity, and is playing an important role in today's healthcare. However, there has been controversy in the use of these traditional herbs due to unclear components and absence of scientific proof. As China plans to modernize traditional medicine, successful attempts to better understand the molecular mechanisms of TCM have been made by focusing on isolating active ingredients from these remedies. In this review, we critically examined the current evidence on atheroprotective effects of bioactive compounds from TCM using in vitro or in vivo models in the past two decades. A total of 47 active compounds were included in our review, which were introduced in the order of chemical structures, source, model, efficacy and mechanism. Notablely, this review highlighted the cellular and molecular mechanisms of these active compounds in prevention and treatment of atherosclerosis. Two compounds were also involved in double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trials (RCTs). Besides, we introduced the legislations of the People's Republic of China ensuring quality and safety of products used in TCM. In summary, studies on bioactive compounds from TCM will provide a new approach for better management of atherosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Qiao
- The Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Remodeling and Function Research, Chinese Ministry of Education and Chinese Ministry of Health, The State and Shandong Province Joint Key Laboratory of Translational Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Cardiology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Wenqiang Chen
- The Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Remodeling and Function Research, Chinese Ministry of Education and Chinese Ministry of Health, The State and Shandong Province Joint Key Laboratory of Translational Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Cardiology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China.
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15
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The Signaling Pathways Involved in the Antiatherosclerotic Effects Produced by Chinese Herbal Medicines. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2018; 2018:5392375. [PMID: 30009170 PMCID: PMC6020658 DOI: 10.1155/2018/5392375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2018] [Revised: 05/15/2018] [Accepted: 05/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are considered to be the predominant cause of death in the world. Chinese herb medicines (CHMs) have been widely used for the treatment of CVDs in Asian countries for thousands of years. One reason of high efficacy of CHMs in treating CVDs is attributed to their inhibition in atherosclerosis (AS) development, a critical contributor to CVDs occurrence. Cumulative studies have demonstrated that CHMs alleviate atherogenesis via mediating pathophysiologic events involved in AS. However, there is deficiency in the summaries regarding antiatherogenic signal pathways regulated by CHMs. In this review, we focus on the signal cascades by which herb medicines and relevant extractives, derivatives, and patents improve proatherogenic processes including endothelium dysfunction, lipid accumulation, and inflammation. We mainly elaborate the CHMs-mediated signaling pathways in endothelial cells, macrophages, and vascular smooth muscle cells of each pathogenic event. Moreover, we briefly describe the other AS-related factors such as thrombosis, autophagy, immune response, and noncoding RNAs and effects of CHMs on them in the way of cascade regulation, which is helpful to further illustrate the molecular mechanisms of AS initiation and progression and discover newly effective agents for AS management.
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Wan Q, Liu Z, Yang Y. Puerarin inhibits vascular smooth muscle cells proliferation induced by fine particulate matter via suppressing of the p38 MAPK signaling pathway. Altern Ther Health Med 2018; 18:146. [PMID: 29728095 PMCID: PMC5935934 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-018-2206-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2017] [Accepted: 04/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Background Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) is a major risk factor for the development and progression of atherosclerosis. Proliferation and infiltration of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) from the blood vessel media into the intima is a crucial step in the pathophysiology of atherosclerosis. Puerarin, a natural extract from Radix Puerariae, possesses significant anti-atherosclerosis properties. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms responsible for the effect of puerarin on the VSMCs proliferation induced by PM2.5 remain unclear. The present study was designed to examine the effect of puerarin on PM2.5-induced VSMCs proliferation, and to explore the p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38 MAPK) signal mechanism involved. Methods VSMCs viability was measured by CCK-8 assay, VSMCs proliferation was assessed by BrdU immunofluorescence, the levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and malonaldehyde (MDA) were assayed by colorimetric assay kits, the levels of nitric oxide (NO) and endothelin-1 (ET-1) were determined by nitrate reductase method and radioimmunoassay, the levels of vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) were measured by ELISA. The protein expressions of phospho-p38 MAPK (p-p38 MAPK) and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) in the VSMCs were subjected by Western blot. Results Compared to the PM2.5-treated cells, in addition to inhibiting the PM2.5-induced VSMCs proliferation, puerarin also down-regulated the protein expressions of p-p38 MAPK and PCNA, decreased the levels of ET-1, VCAM-1, IL-6, TNF-α and MDA, increased the levels of NO and SOD. Moreover, the anti-proliferative effects of puerarin were significantly enhanced by the co-incubation of puerarin with SB203580, a selective inhibitor of p38 MAPK, as compared to the puerarin-treated cells. Conclusion These results suggest that puerarin might suppress the PM2.5-induced VSMCs proliferation via the inhibition of the p38 MAPK signaling pathway.
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17
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Hu Y, Li H, Liu K, Zhang Y, Ren L, Fan Z. Protective effects of icariin on human vascular endothelial cells induced by oxidized low-density lipoprotein via modulating caspase-3 and Bcl-2. Mol Med Rep 2018. [PMID: 29532884 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2018.8717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Icariin belongs to the family of flavonoids that is extracted from Epimedium brevicornum Maxim, and exhibits antioxidative, antitumorigenic, antiosteoporotic, immunoregulatory and antiatherosclerotic properties. To understand the mechanisms underlying the antiatherosclerotic properties of icariin, the present study investigated the effects of icariin on human vascular endothelial cells (HUVECs) following treatment with oxidized low‑density lipoprotein (ox‑LDL). Thus, following pretreatment with icariin at four various concentrations (0, 10, 20 and 40 µM), HUVECs were stimulated with ox‑LDL (100 µg/ml). The viability of cells was evaluated via an MTT assay and flow cytometry was performed to assess apoptosis. Additionally, the protein and mRNA expression levels of apoptosis regulator Bcl‑2 (Bcl‑2) and caspase‑3 were determined by western blotting and reverse transcription‑quantitative polymerase chain reaction. The findings of the present study indicated that icariin prevented injury and apoptosis in HUVECs following ox‑LDL treatment, in particular via the regulation of protein and mRNA expression levels of Bcl-2 and caspase-3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanwu Hu
- Department of Breast Surgery, The First Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, P.R. China
| | - Haitao Li
- Department of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Hospital of Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, Jilin 130021, P.R. China
| | - Kai Liu
- Department of Experimental Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmaceutical Science, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, P.R. China
| | - Yang Zhang
- Department of Experimental Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmaceutical Science, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, P.R. China
| | - Liqun Ren
- Department of Experimental Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmaceutical Science, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, P.R. China
| | - Zhimin Fan
- Department of Breast Surgery, The First Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, P.R. China
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18
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Fang J, Zhang Y. Icariin, an Anti-atherosclerotic Drug from Chinese Medicinal Herb Horny Goat Weed. Front Pharmacol 2017; 8:734. [PMID: 29075193 PMCID: PMC5644024 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2017.00734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2017] [Accepted: 09/29/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Icariin is a major bioactive pharmaceutical constituent isolated from Chinese medicine Horny Goat Weed (Ying Yang Huo) with potent cardiovascular protective functions. Emerging evidence in the past decade has shown that Icariin possesses multiple atheroprotective functions, through multiple mechanisms, including attenuating DNA damage, correcting endothelial dysfunction, inhibiting the proliferation and migration of smooth muscle cells, repressing macrophage-derived foam cell formation and inflammatory responses, as well as preventing platelet activation. All of these protective effects, combined with its lipid-modulatory effects, contribute to the broad atheroprotective effects of Icariin. In this review, we will summarize the anti-atherosclerotic properties of Icariin and highlight future perspectives in developing Icariin as a promising anti-atherosclerotic drug.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Fang
- Department of Pharmacy, Huadu District People's Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yongjun Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Huadu District People's Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
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19
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DR1 activation reduces the proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells by JNK/c-Jun dependent increasing of Prx3. Mol Cell Biochem 2017; 440:157-165. [DOI: 10.1007/s11010-017-3164-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2017] [Accepted: 08/16/2017] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
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20
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A Novel Approach to Utilize Icariin as Icariin-Derived ECM on Small Intestinal Submucosa Scaffold for Bone Repair. Ann Biomed Eng 2017; 45:2673-2682. [DOI: 10.1007/s10439-017-1900-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2017] [Accepted: 08/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
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21
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Algandaby MM, Breikaa RM, Eid BG, Neamatallah TA, Abdel-Naim AB, Ashour OM. Icariin protects against thioacetamide-induced liver fibrosis in rats: Implication of anti-angiogenic and anti-autophagic properties. Pharmacol Rep 2017; 69:616-624. [PMID: 28505603 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharep.2017.02.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2016] [Revised: 01/19/2017] [Accepted: 02/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Liver fibrosis is a major health problem. The current study evaluated the potential of icariin (ICA) to guard against thioacetamide (TAA)-induced liver fibrosis in rats. METHODS Four groups of male rats were treated as follows: group 1 was the control group, group 2 was given TAA (200mg/kg), group 3 was administered ICA (50mg/kg) and TAA (200mg/kg), and group 4 was given ICA (50mg/kg) alone. Animal treatment was continued for four weeks. RESULTS Co-administration of ICA guarded against TAA hepatotoxicity as indicated by significant inhibition in the rise of serum ALT and AST activities and albumin concentrations. This was accompanied by inhibition of reduced glutathione depletion, superoxide dismutase exhaustion, and lipid peroxide accumulation. In addition, ICA inhibited the pathological alterations in liver architecture induced by TAA. The antifibrotic activity of ICA was verified by reduced hepatic collagen deposition in liver sections stained with Masson's trichrome and hepatic Col-1α mRNA and hydroxyproline contents compared to the TAA-treated group. The antiangiogenic activity of ICA was evidenced by lowered levels of mRNA of Ang-1 and protein expression of VEGF, PDGF-β, and CTGF immunohistochemically. Further, the anti-autophagic property of ICA was evidenced by amelioration of the decrease in mTOR and p70S6 kinase expression and an increase in TLR4, NFκB, IL1-β, and COX-2 immunohistochemically. Moreover, ICA antagonized the increase in HMGB1, TGF-β, and Beclin-1 and the decrease in BAMBI hepatic mRNA levels. CONCLUSIONS ICA inhibits TAA-induced liver fibrosis in rats, possibly via inhibition of angiogenesis and autophagy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mardi M Algandaby
- Medicinal Plants Research Group, Deanship of Scientific Research, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia; Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Randa M Breikaa
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Basma G Eid
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Thikrayat A Neamatallah
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ashraf B Abdel-Naim
- Medicinal Plants Research Group, Deanship of Scientific Research, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Osama M Ashour
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
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Chen M, Wu J, Luo Q, Mo S, Lyu Y, Wei Y, Dong J. The Anticancer Properties of Herba Epimedii and Its Main Bioactive Componentsicariin and Icariside II. Nutrients 2016; 8:nu8090563. [PMID: 27649234 PMCID: PMC5037548 DOI: 10.3390/nu8090563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2016] [Revised: 08/26/2016] [Accepted: 09/02/2016] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer is one of the leading causes of deaths worldwide. Compounds derived from traditional Chinese medicines have been an important source of anticancer drugs and adjuvant agents to potentiate the efficacy of chemotherapeutic drugs and improve the side effects of chemotherapy. HerbaEpimedii is one of most popular herbs used in China traditionally for the treatment of multiple diseases, including osteoporosis, sexual dysfunction, hypertension and common inflammatory diseases. Studies show HerbaEpimedii also possesses anticancer activity. Flavonol glycosides icariin and icariside II are the main bioactive components of HerbaEpimedii. They have been found to possess anticancer activities against various human cancer cell lines in vitro and mouse tumor models in vivo via their effects on multiple biological pathways, including cell cycle regulation, apoptosis, angiogenesis, and metastasis, and a variety of signaling pathways including JAK2-STAT3, MAPK-ERK, and PI3k-Akt-mTOR. The review is aimed to provide an overview of the current research results supporting their therapeutic effects and to highlight the molecular targets and action mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meixia Chen
- Department of Integrative Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200040, China.
| | - Jinfeng Wu
- Department of Dermatology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200040, China.
| | - Qingli Luo
- Department of Integrative Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200040, China.
| | - Shuming Mo
- Department of Integrative Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200040, China.
| | - Yubao Lyu
- Department of Integrative Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200040, China.
| | - Ying Wei
- Department of Integrative Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200040, China.
| | - Jingcheng Dong
- Department of Integrative Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200040, China.
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Song YH, Cai H, Zhao ZM, Chang WJ, Gu N, Cao SP, Wu ML. Icariin attenuated oxidative stress induced-cardiac apoptosis by mitochondria protection and ERK activation. Biomed Pharmacother 2016; 83:1089-1094. [PMID: 27551754 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2016.08.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2016] [Revised: 07/27/2016] [Accepted: 08/07/2016] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Our previous study showed that Icariin (ICA) has anti-cardiac hypertrophy effect in rats with an unknown mechanism. In the present study, we aimed to clarify the cardiac protective effect and mechanism of ICA in vitro. H9C2 cardiac myocytes were incubated with H2O2 to build up the oxidative stress injury model. The results showed that pre-treatment of ICA protected cells against the toxicity induced by H2O2. H2O2 treatment significantly reduced H2O2-induced apoptosis, evidenced by lower Annexin V/PI stained cells and less PARP and caspase-3/9 activation. Mitochondria membrane potential (MMP) dissipation occurred following the exposure of H2O2, which could be prevented by ICA treatment. Moreover, Ca2+ homeostasis was preserved by ICA and ROS generation was significantly suppressed by ICA incubation. Interestingly, ICA treatment increased the phosphorylation of upstream ERK mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) while ERK inhibitor U1026 could reverse the protective effect of ICA. Overall, ICA seems to protect the cardiac cells from oxidative stress injury through ROS scavenge and stimulation of ERK pathway which may explain its effects in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yao-Hong Song
- Department of Cardiology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinling Road, Nanjing 210001, China
| | - Hui Cai
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing Jinling Hospital, 305 Zhongshandong Road, Nanjing 210002, China.
| | - Zhi-Ming Zhao
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing Jinling Hospital, 305 Zhongshandong Road, Nanjing 210002, China
| | - Wen-Jing Chang
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing Jinling Hospital, 305 Zhongshandong Road, Nanjing 210002, China
| | - Ning Gu
- Department of Cardiology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinling Road, Nanjing 210001, China
| | - Shou-Pei Cao
- Department of Cardiology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinling Road, Nanjing 210001, China
| | - Meng-Ling Wu
- Department of Cardiology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinling Road, Nanjing 210001, China
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