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Alqahtani MA, El-Ghiaty MA, El-Mahrouk SR, El-Kadi AOS. Methylmercury (MeHg) transcriptionally regulates NAD(P)H:quinone oxidoreductase 1 (NQO1) in Hepa-1c1c7 cells. Curr Res Toxicol 2023; 5:100126. [PMID: 37808441 PMCID: PMC10556580 DOI: 10.1016/j.crtox.2023.100126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2023] [Revised: 09/10/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The detoxification of quinones through NAD(P)H:quinone oxidoreductase (NQO1) is a crucial mechanism to maintain cellular homeostasis. The exposure to heavy metals, specifically methylmercury (MeHg), induces several antioxidant enzymes, including NQO1. The nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor-2 (NRF2) is known to regulate the expression of Nqo1 gene and also the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) is another Nqo1 gene regulator. This co-regulation prompted us to investigate which transcription factor (NRF2 or AHR) orchestrates the regulation of NQO1 expression upon MeHg exposure. Therefore, we investigated how MeHg can modulate the level of NQO1 expression by exposing Hepa-1c1c7 cells to several concentrations of MeHg with and without the addition of NQO1 inducers, DL-sulforaphane (SUL) and 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD). We found that the mRNA expression of Nqo1 is up-regulated by MeHg in time- as well as dose-dependent fashions. Additionally, MeHg increased the NQO1 at all expression levels with and without the presence of its inducers, SUL or TCDD. Furthermore, the MeHg-mediated increase of NQO1 expression was in parallel with a concurrent increase in the nuclear localization of NRF2 protein, but not that of AHR. Mechanistically, the antioxidant response element-driven reporter gene activity was induced by 215% upon MeHg exposure. Also, transfecting Hepa-1c1c7 with Nrf2 siRNA reduced the MeHg-induced NQO1 protein expression by 60%. In conclusion, our findings provide evidence supporting the hypothesis that MeHg upregulates the Nqo1 gene through a transcriptional mechanism at least in part via a NRF2-dependent mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed A Alqahtani
- Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Mahmoud A El-Ghiaty
- Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Sara R El-Mahrouk
- Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Ayman O S El-Kadi
- Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
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Guan H, Xu Y, Ma C, Zhao D. Pharmacology, Toxicology, and Rational Application of Cinnabar, Realgar, and Their Formulations. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine 2022; 2022:1-15. [PMID: 36204126 PMCID: PMC9532072 DOI: 10.1155/2022/6369150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2022] [Accepted: 08/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Ethnopharmacological Relevance. Mineral medicines are widely used traditional Chinese medicines with curative effects. These medicines are used for many refractory diseases. Aim of the Review. In this review, cinnabar (HgS) and realgar (As₂S₂) serve as examples of mineral medicines, and their pharmacology, therapeutic toxicity, use in traditional medicine mixtures, and research perspectives are discussed. Materials and Methods. A search was performed for the literature on cinnabar and realgar in PubMed, the Chinese Pharmacopeia, Google, and other sources. The search included studies using single herbs, traditional formulations, or novel dosage forms. Results. Cinnabar and cinnabar formulas exhibit good efficacy for sedation, sleep improvement, anxiety alleviation, and brain protection. However, previous studies on neurotransmitters have reached different conclusions, and detailed pharmacological mechanisms are lacking. Realgar and its formulas exert promising antitumor activity through regulation of cell cycle arrest, intrinsic and extrinsic apoptosis, induction of differentiation, autophagy, metabolic reprogramming, matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) signaling, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. In addition, realgar can be used to treat a variety of refractory diseases by regulating immunity and exerting antibacterial, antiviral, and other effects. However, the existing pharmacological research on the use of realgar for epidemic prevention is insufficient, and animal experiments and research at the cellular level are lacking. Inappropriate applications of cinnabar and realgar can cause toxicity, including neurotoxicity, liver toxicity, kidney toxicity, and genotoxicity. The toxicological mechanism is complex, and molecular-level research is limited. For clinical applications, theory and clinical experience must be combined to guide scientific and rational drug use and to achieve reduced toxicity and increased efficacy through the use of modern preparation methods or combined drugs. Notably, when cinnabar and realgar are used to treat targeted diseases, these agents have a bidirectional effect of “treatment” and “toxicity” on the central nervous system in pathological and normal states. The pharmacological and toxicological mechanisms need to be elucidated in greater detail in the future. Overall, systematic research is needed to provide a basis for better promotion of the rational use of cinnabar and realgar in the clinic. Conclusion. Mineral medicines are multicomponent, multiactivity, and multitargeted substances. The pharmacology and mechanisms of the toxicity and action of realgar and cinnabar are extremely complex. A number of Chinese medicinal preparations of realgar and cinnabar have demonstrated unique efficacy in the treatment of refractory diseases.
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Wang S, Xiao X, Li A, Li P. The Herbal Constituents in An-Gong-Niu-Huang Wan (AGNH) Protect against Cinnabar- and Realgar-Induced Hepatorenal Toxicity and Accumulations of Mercury and Arsenic in Mice. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med 2021; 2021:5566078. [PMID: 33868437 DOI: 10.1155/2021/5566078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2021] [Revised: 03/19/2021] [Accepted: 03/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
An-Gong-Niu-Huang Wan (AGNH) has been a well-known cinnabar- and realgar-containing compound recipe for cerebral diseases. Unfortunately, its clinical practice is often restrained by the specific hepatorenal toxicity of cinnabar and realgar (C + R). In previous research studies, we have found that the antioxidative and anti-inflammatory effects of its herbal constituents could mitigate the risks from the toxicity. The underlying detoxification mechanisms are still unsolved. The present study investigated the protective effects of AGNH's herbal constituents on hepatorenal injury induced by C + R. For the mice treated with C + R, the increased expression levels of sensitive biomarkers of metal exposure and hepatorenal toxicity, including metallothionein (MT) in both hepatorenal tissues and kidney induced molecule-1 (KIM-1) in the kidney, were simultaneously reduced when C + R coadministered with other herbal medicines. In addition, the contents of trivalent As (AsIII), pentavalent As (Asv), and mercury (Hg) in hepatorenal tissues of mice were also significantly reduced benefiting from the herbal constituents in AGNH. Further mechanism studies showed that the herbal constituents in AGNH could downregulate the expressions of uptake transporters (AQP9 and OAT1) and upregulate the expressions of efflux transporters (P-gp, MRP2, and MRP4) in mice intoxicated by C + R. Our results suggested that AGNH's herbal constituents protect the body against C + R-induced hepatorenal toxicity and accumulations of Hg and As, which could be associated with the reestablishment of heavy metal homeostasis and the detoxification system.
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Nie Y, Xu SF, Lu YL, Zhao XR, Li C, Wei LX, Liu J. Zuotai (β-HgS)-containing 70 Wei Zhen-Zhu-Wan differs from mercury chloride and methylmercury on hepatic cytochrome P450 in mice. F1000Res 2021; 10:203. [PMID: 34249337 PMCID: PMC8240600 DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.40667.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/24/2021] [Indexed: 08/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Zuotai (mainly β-HgS)-containing 70 Wei-Zhen-Zhu-Wan (70W, Rannasangpei) is a famous Tibetan medicine for treating cardiovascular and gastrointestinal diseases. We have shown that 70W protected against CCl 4 hepatotoxicity. CCl 4 is metabolized via cytochrome P450 (CYP) to produce reactive metabolites. Whether 70W has any effect on CYPs is unknown and such effects should be compared with mercury compounds for safety evaluation. Methods: Mice were given clinical doses of 70W (0.15-1.5 g/kg, po), Zuotai (30 mg/kg, po), and compared to HgCl 2 (33.6 mg/kg, po) and MeHg (3.1 mg/kg, po) for seven days. Liver RNA and protein were isolated for qPCR and Western-blot analysis. Results: 70W and Zuotai had no effects on hepatic mRNA expression of Cyp1a2, Cyp2b10, Cyp3a11, Cyp4a10 and Cyp7a1, and corresponding nuclear receptors [aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR), constitutive androstane receptor (CAR), pregnane X receptor (PXR), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-α (PPARα); farnesoid X receptor (FXR)]. In comparison, HgCl 2 and MeHg increased mRNA expression of Cyp1a2, Cyp2b10, Cyp4a10 and Cyp7a1 except for Cyp3a11, and corresponding nuclear receptors except for PXR. Western-blot confirmed mRNA results, showing increases in CYP1A2, CYP2B1, CYP2E1, CYP4A and CYP7A1 by HgCl 2 and MeHg only, and all treatments had no effects on CYP3A. Conclusions: Zuotai and Zuotai-containing 70W at clinical doses had minimal influence on hepatic CYPs and corresponding nuclear receptors, while HgCl 2 and MeHg produced significant effects. Thus, the use of total Hg content to evaluate the safety of HgS-containing 70W is inappropriate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Nie
- Key Laboratory for Basic Pharmacology of Ministry of Education and the Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, 563006, China
- Research Lab, Zunyi Blood Center, Zunyi, 563000, China
| | - Shang-Fu Xu
- Key Laboratory for Basic Pharmacology of Ministry of Education and the Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, 563006, China
| | - Yan-Liu Lu
- Key Laboratory for Basic Pharmacology of Ministry of Education and the Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, 563006, China
| | - Xiu-Rong Zhao
- Key Laboratory for Basic Pharmacology of Ministry of Education and the Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, 563006, China
| | - Cen Li
- Key Lab of Tibetan Medicine, Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xining, Qinghai, 810001, China
| | - Li-Xin Wei
- Key Lab of Tibetan Medicine, Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xining, Qinghai, 810001, China
| | - Jie Liu
- Key Laboratory for Basic Pharmacology of Ministry of Education and the Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, 563006, China
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Nie Y, Xu SF, Lu YL, Zhao XR, Li C, Wei LX, Liu J. Zuotai (β-HgS)-containing 70 Wei Zhen-Zhu-Wan differs from mercury chloride and methylmercury on hepatic cytochrome P450 in mice. F1000Res 2021; 10:203. [PMID: 34249337 PMCID: PMC8240600 DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.40667.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Zuotai (mainly β-HgS)-containing 70 Wei-Zhen-Zhu-Wan (70W, Rannasangpei) is a famous Tibetan medicine for treating cardiovascular and gastrointestinal diseases. We have shown that 70W protected against CCl 4 hepatotoxicity. CCl 4 is metabolized via cytochrome P450 (CYP) to produce reactive metabolites. Whether 70W has any effect on CYPs is unknown and such effects should be compared with mercury compounds for safety evaluation. Methods: Mice were given clinical doses of 70W (0.15-1.5 g/kg, po), Zuotai (30 mg/kg, po), and compared to HgCl 2 (33.6 mg/kg, po) and MeHg (3.1 mg/kg, po) for seven days. Liver RNA and protein were isolated for qPCR and Western-blot analysis. Results: 70W and Zuotai had no effects on hepatic mRNA expression of Cyp1a2, Cyp2b10, Cyp3a11, Cyp4a10 and Cyp7a1, and corresponding nuclear receptors [aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR), constitutive androstane receptor (CAR), pregnane X receptor (PXR), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-α (PPARα); farnesoid X receptor (FXR)]. In comparison, HgCl 2 and MeHg increased mRNA expression of Cyp1a2, Cyp2b10, Cyp4a10 and Cyp7a1 except for Cyp3a11, and corresponding nuclear receptors except for PXR. Western-blot confirmed mRNA results, showing increases in CYP1A2, CYP2B1, CYP2E1, CYP4A and CYP7A1 by HgCl 2 and MeHg only, and all treatments had no effects on CYP3A. Conclusions: Zuotai and Zuotai-containing 70W at clinical doses had minimal influence on hepatic CYPs and corresponding nuclear receptors, while HgCl 2 and MeHg produced significant effects. Thus, the use of total Hg content to evaluate the safety of HgS-containing 70W is inappropriate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Nie
- Key Laboratory for Basic Pharmacology of Ministry of Education and the Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, 563006, China
- Research Lab, Zunyi Blood Center, Zunyi, 563000, China
| | - Shang-Fu Xu
- Key Laboratory for Basic Pharmacology of Ministry of Education and the Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, 563006, China
| | - Yan-Liu Lu
- Key Laboratory for Basic Pharmacology of Ministry of Education and the Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, 563006, China
| | - Xiu-Rong Zhao
- Key Laboratory for Basic Pharmacology of Ministry of Education and the Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, 563006, China
| | - Cen Li
- Key Lab of Tibetan Medicine, Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xining, Qinghai, 810001, China
| | - Li-Xin Wei
- Key Lab of Tibetan Medicine, Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xining, Qinghai, 810001, China
| | - Jie Liu
- Key Laboratory for Basic Pharmacology of Ministry of Education and the Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, 563006, China
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Shen QQ, Wang JJ, Roy D, Sun LX, Jiang ZZ, Zhang LY, Huang X. Organic anion transporter 1 and 3 contribute to traditional Chinese medicine-induced nephrotoxicity. Chin J Nat Med 2020; 18:196-205. [PMID: 32245589 DOI: 10.1016/s1875-5364(20)30021-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
With the internationally growing popularity of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), TCM-induced nephropathy has attracted public attention. Minimizing this toxicity is an important issue for future research. Typical nephrotoxic TCM drugs such as Aristolochic acid, Tripterygium wilfordii Hook. f, Rheum officinale Baill, and cinnabar mainly damage renal proximal tubules or cause interstitial nephritis. Transporters in renal proximal tubule are believed to be critical in the disposition of xenobiotics. In this review, we provide information on the alteration of renal transporters by nephrotoxic TCMs, which may be helpful for understanding the nephrotoxic mechanism of TCMs and reducing adverse effects. Studies have proven that when administering nephrotoxic TCMs, the expression or function of renal transporters is altered, especially organic anion transporter 1 and 3. The alteration of these transporters may enhance the accumulation of toxic drugs or the dysfunction of endogenous toxins and subsequently sensitize the kidney to injury. Transporters-related drug combination and clinical biomarkers supervision to avoid the risk of future toxicity are proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing-Qing Shen
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Screening, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China; Jiangsu Center for Pharmacodynamics Research and Evaluation, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Jing-Jing Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Screening, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China; Key Laboratory of Drug Quality Control and Pharmacovigilance, Ministry of Education, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Debmalya Roy
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Screening, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Li-Xin Sun
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Screening, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China; Jiangsu Center for Pharmacodynamics Research and Evaluation, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China; Key Laboratory of Drug Quality Control and Pharmacovigilance, Ministry of Education, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Zhen-Zhou Jiang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Screening, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China; Jiangsu Center for Pharmacodynamics Research and Evaluation, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China; Key Laboratory of Drug Quality Control and Pharmacovigilance, Ministry of Education, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Lu-Yong Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Screening, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China; Center for Drug Screening and Pharmacodynamics Evaluation, School of Pharmacy, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Xin Huang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Screening, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China; Jiangsu Center for Pharmacodynamics Research and Evaluation, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China; Key Laboratory of Drug Quality Control and Pharmacovigilance, Ministry of Education, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China.
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Long N, Tang H, Lin L, Li J, Guo L, Sun F, Dai M. Effects of infection of MRSA on the expression and activity of renal cytochrome P450s in mice. J Toxicol Sci 2019; 44:299-307. [PMID: 30944282 DOI: 10.2131/jts.44.299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) leads to serious infections, but it is not known whether it changes the expression of kidney drug metabolizing enzymes during infection. The mice were infected with different doses of MRSA and the oxidative stress and inflammation levels in the kidney were examined. The mRNA expression and activity of cytochrome P450 enzyme was analysed. Mice infected with high levels of MRSA showed a decrease in renal antioxidant capability and an elevated level of oxidative metabolites, which was accompanied by the release of inflammatory cytokines. The levels of interleukin 1β, tumour necrosis factor alpha, and macrophage inflammatory protein-1α were significantly increased along with the levels of nitric oxide and malondialdehyde. On day 7, mRNA expression of Cyp1a2, 2d22, and 3a11 were decreased by the high level of MRSA, but the low level of MRSA increased their expressions. Cyp2e1 mRNA expression was increased by MRSA in the kidney of mice. High dose of MRSA infection increased the oxidative stress and inflammatory response in mouse kidney, leading to the decrease in the expression of renal drug-metabolizing enzymes and no recovery within 7 days.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nana Long
- School of Laboratory Medicine, Chengdu Medical College, China.,Sichuan Provincial Engineering Laboratory for Prevention and Control Technology of Veterinary Drug Residue in Animal-origin Food, Chengdu Medical College, China
| | - Huaqiao Tang
- School of Laboratory Medicine, Chengdu Medical College, China.,Sichuan Provincial Engineering Laboratory for Prevention and Control Technology of Veterinary Drug Residue in Animal-origin Food, Chengdu Medical College, China
| | - Lin Lin
- School of Laboratory Medicine, Chengdu Medical College, China.,Sichuan Provincial Engineering Laboratory for Prevention and Control Technology of Veterinary Drug Residue in Animal-origin Food, Chengdu Medical College, China
| | - Jianlong Li
- School of Laboratory Medicine, Chengdu Medical College, China.,Sichuan Provincial Engineering Laboratory for Prevention and Control Technology of Veterinary Drug Residue in Animal-origin Food, Chengdu Medical College, China
| | - Lijuan Guo
- School of Laboratory Medicine, Chengdu Medical College, China.,Sichuan Provincial Engineering Laboratory for Prevention and Control Technology of Veterinary Drug Residue in Animal-origin Food, Chengdu Medical College, China
| | - Fenghui Sun
- School of Laboratory Medicine, Chengdu Medical College, China.,Sichuan Provincial Engineering Laboratory for Prevention and Control Technology of Veterinary Drug Residue in Animal-origin Food, Chengdu Medical College, China
| | - Min Dai
- School of Laboratory Medicine, Chengdu Medical College, China.,Sichuan Provincial Engineering Laboratory for Prevention and Control Technology of Veterinary Drug Residue in Animal-origin Food, Chengdu Medical College, China
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Zhang BB, Liu YM, Hu AL, Xu SF, Fan LD, Cheng ML, Li C, Wei LX, Liu J. HgS and Zuotai differ from HgCl 2 and methyl mercury in intestinal Hg absorption, transporter expression and gut microbiome in mice. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2019; 379:114615. [PMID: 31175882 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2019.114615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2019] [Revised: 05/28/2019] [Accepted: 06/04/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Mercury (Hg) is generally considered as a toxic metal; yet the biological outcomes of Hg-containing compounds are highly dependent upon their chemical forms. We hypothesize that mercury sulfide (HgS) is different from HgCl2 and methylmercury (MeHg) in producing intestinal Hg absorption and disruption of gut microbiome. To test this hypothesis, mice were given orally with HgS (α-HgS, 30 mg/kg), Zuotai (β-HgS, 30 mg/kg), HgCl2 (33.6 mg/kg, equivalent Hg as HgS), or MeHg (3.1 mg/kg, 1/10 Hg as HgS) for 7 days. Accumulation of Hg in the duodenum and ileum after HgCl2 (30-40 fold) and MeHg (10-15 fold) was higher than HgS and Zuotai (~2-fold). HgCl2 and MeHg decreased intestinal intake peptide transporter-1 and Ost-β, and increased ileal bile acid binding protein and equilibrative nucleoside transporter-1. The efflux transporters ATP-binding cassette sub-family C member-4 (Abcc4), Abcg2, Abcg5/8, and Abcb1b were increased by HgCl2 and to a lesser extent by MeHg, while HgS and Zuotai had minimal effects. Bacterial DNA was extracted and subjected to 16S rDNA sequencing. Operational taxonomic unit (OTU) results showed that among the 10 phyla, HgS increased Firmicutes, Proteobacteria, while HgCl2 increased Bacteroidetes, Cyanobacteria and decreased Firmicutes; among the 79 families, HgS increased Rikenellaceae, Lactobacillaceae, Helicobacteraceae, and decreased Prevotellaceae, while HgCl2 increased Odoribacteraceae, Porphyromonadaceae, and decreased Lactobacillaceae; among the 232 genus/species, HgS and Zuotai affected gut microbiome quite differently from HgCl2 and MeHg. qPCR analysis with 16S rRNA confirmed sequencing results. Thus, chemical forms of mercury are a major determinant for intestinal Hg accumulation, alterations in transporters and disruption of microbiome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin-Bin Zhang
- Key Lab for Pharmacology of Ministry of Education and Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine, Zunyi Medical College, Zunyi 563000, China
| | - Yong-Mei Liu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Hospital Affiliated to Guizhou Medical University, No. 4 Beijing Road, Guiyang, Guizhou 550004, China
| | - An-Ling Hu
- Key Lab for Pharmacology of Ministry of Education and Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine, Zunyi Medical College, Zunyi 563000, China
| | - Shang-Fu Xu
- Key Lab for Pharmacology of Ministry of Education and Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine, Zunyi Medical College, Zunyi 563000, China
| | - Li-Da Fan
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Hospital Affiliated to Guizhou Medical University, No. 4 Beijing Road, Guiyang, Guizhou 550004, China
| | - Ming-Liang Cheng
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Hospital Affiliated to Guizhou Medical University, No. 4 Beijing Road, Guiyang, Guizhou 550004, China
| | - Cen Li
- Qinghai Key Laboratory of Tibetan Medicine Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation, Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xining 810008, China
| | - Li-Xin Wei
- Qinghai Key Laboratory of Tibetan Medicine Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation, Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xining 810008, China
| | - Jie Liu
- Key Lab for Pharmacology of Ministry of Education and Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine, Zunyi Medical College, Zunyi 563000, China.
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Liu J, Zhang F, Ravikanth V, Olajide OA, Li C, Wei LX. Chemical Compositions of Metals in Bhasmas and Tibetan Zuotai Are a Major Determinant of Their Therapeutic Effects and Toxicity. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med 2019; 2019:1697804. [PMID: 30941186 DOI: 10.1155/2019/1697804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2018] [Revised: 11/30/2018] [Accepted: 12/09/2018] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Minerals are alchemically processed as Bhasmas in Ayurvedic medicines or as Zuotai in Tibetan medicines. Ayurveda is a knowledge system of longevity and considers the mineral elixir made from “nature” capable of giving humans perpetual life. Herbo-metallic preparations have a long history in the treatment of various diseases in India, China, and around the world. Their disposition, pharmacology, efficacy, and safety require scientific evaluation. This review discusses the Bhasmas in Ayurvedic medicines and Zuotai in Tibetan medicines for their occurrence, bioaccessibility, therapeutic use, pharmacology, toxicity, and research perspectives. A literature search on Mineral, Bhasma, Ayurvedic medicine, Zuotai, Tibetan medicine, and Metals/metalloids from PubMed, Google and other sources was carried out, and the relevant papers on their traditional use, pharmacology, and toxicity were selected and analyzed. Minerals are processed to form Bhasma or Zuotai to alter their physiochemical properties distinguishing them from environmental metals. The metals found in Ayurveda are mainly from the intentional addition in the form of Bhasma or Zuotai. Bhasma and Zuotai are often used in combination with other herbals and/or animal-based products as mixtures. The advanced technologies are now utilized to characterize herbo-metallic preparations as Quality Assurance/Quality Control. The bioaccessibility, absorption, distribution, metabolism, and elimination of herbo-metallic preparations are different from environmental metals. The pharmacological basis of Bhasma in Ayurveda and Zuotai in Tibetan medicines and their interactions with drugs require scientific research. Although the toxic potentials of Bhasma and Zuotai differ from environmental metals, the metal poisoning case reports, especially lead (Pb), mercury (Hg), and arsenic (As) from inappropriate use of traditional medicines, are increasing, and pharmacovigilance is desired. In risk assessment, chemical forms of metals in Bhasma and Zuotai should be considered for their disposition, efficacy, and toxicity.
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Zheng Z, Zhang M, Xiao Y, Wei L, Li C. Effect of Cys, GSH, and pH on Mercury Release from Tibetan Medicine Zuotai, β-HgS, and α-HgS in Artificial Gastrointestinal Juices. Biol Trace Elem Res 2018; 184:536-545. [PMID: 29130128 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-017-1185-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2017] [Accepted: 10/02/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Zuotai, also named as "gTso thal", a known Tibetan medicinal mixture containing insoluble cubic crystal mercuric sulfide (β-HgS), has been used to treat diseases with long history. The mercury release ratio from Zuotai in gastrointestinal environment is one determinant factor for its bioavailability and biological effect. However, the information is still scarce now. Therefore, the study was designed to investigate the effect of sulfhydryl biomolecules [L-cysteine (Cys) and glutathione (GSH)] and pH on mercury dissociation from Zuotai, β-HgS, and hexagonal crystal mercuric sulfide (α-HgS) in artificial gastrointestinal juices or pure water with a 1:100 solid-liquid ratio. And, the digestion and peristalsis of gastrointestinal tract were simulated in vitro. The results showed the following trend for the mercury release ratio of Zuotai, artificial gastric juice > artificial intestinal juice > pure water, whereas the trend for β-HgS and α-HgS was as follows, artificial intestinal fluid > artificial gastric fluid > pure water. The mercury release ratios of Zuotai, β-HgS, and α-HgS significantly increased in artificial intestinal juice containing L-Cys or GSH compared to those without sulfhydryl biomolecules in the juice. However, in contrast to the results observed for β-HgS and α-HgS, the mercury release ratio of Zuotai was reduced remarkably in pure water and artificial gastric juice with Cys or GSH. And, we found that strong acidic or strong alkaline environments promoted the dissociation of mercury from Zuotai, β-HgS, and α-HgS. Taken together, current findings may contribute to other studies regarding clinical safety and bioavailability of the traditional drug Zuotai containing β-HgS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiyuan Zheng
- Qinghai Key Laboratory of Tibetan Medicine Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation, Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xinning Road 23, Xining, Qinghai, 810008, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100047, China
| | - Ming Zhang
- Qinghai Key Laboratory of Tibetan Medicine Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation, Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xinning Road 23, Xining, Qinghai, 810008, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100047, China
| | - Yuancan Xiao
- Qinghai Key Laboratory of Tibetan Medicine Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation, Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xinning Road 23, Xining, Qinghai, 810008, China
- Key Laboratory of Tibetan Medicine Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xining, Qinghai, 810008, China
| | - Lixin Wei
- Qinghai Key Laboratory of Tibetan Medicine Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation, Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xinning Road 23, Xining, Qinghai, 810008, China.
- Key Laboratory of Tibetan Medicine Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xining, Qinghai, 810008, China.
| | - Cen Li
- Qinghai Key Laboratory of Tibetan Medicine Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation, Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xinning Road 23, Xining, Qinghai, 810008, China.
- Key Laboratory of Tibetan Medicine Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xining, Qinghai, 810008, China.
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11
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Hazelhoff MH, Torres AM. Gender differences in mercury-induced hepatotoxicity: Potential mechanisms. Chemosphere 2018; 202:330-338. [PMID: 29574386 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2018.03.106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2017] [Revised: 03/14/2018] [Accepted: 03/16/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
The accumulation of mercury in the liver causes hepatotoxicity. The organic anion transporter 3 (Oat3) and the multidrug-resistance associated protein 2 (Mrp2) are involved in the hepatic excretion of toxins and drugs and in the hepatic handling of mercury. The aim of this work was to study if there are gender-related differences in mercuric chloride (HgCl2)-induced hepatotoxicity in rats. Total mercury levels and protein expressions of Oat3 and Mrp2 in liver samples were also assessed to clarify the mechanisms underlying mercury-induced liver damage in male and female rats. Control and HgCl2-treated male and female Wistar rats were used. Hepatotoxicity was evaluated by plasma activity of transaminases and alkaline phosphatase, as well as by histopathological analysis. Oat3 and Mrp2 expression was assessed by immunoblotting. Female rats displayed a higher HgCl2-induced hepatotoxicity than male rats as demonstrated by the higher alterations in the plasma markers of liver damage and in the histopathology. The sex-related differences observed in the hepatic damage can be explained by the higher accumulation of mercury in liver from female rats. In this connection, after mercury treatment the expression of Mrp2 decreased in both sexes and the expression of Oat3 decreased only in males. The decreased in Oat3 abundance in the hepatocytes membranes in mercury-treated males would limit the uptake of mercuric ions into the liver protecting them from mercury hepatotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Herminia Hazelhoff
- Área Farmacología, Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas, Universidad Nacional de Rosario, CONICET, Argentina
| | - Adriana Mónica Torres
- Área Farmacología, Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas, Universidad Nacional de Rosario, CONICET, Argentina.
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Xia F, Li A, Chai Y, Xiao X, Wan J, Li P, Wang Y. UPLC/Q-TOFMS-Based Metabolomics Approach to Reveal the Protective Role of Other Herbs in An-Gong-Niu-Huang Wan Against the Hepatorenal Toxicity of Cinnabar and Realgar. Front Pharmacol 2018; 9:618. [PMID: 29950994 PMCID: PMC6008407 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2018.00618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2017] [Accepted: 05/23/2018] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
An-Gong-Niu-Huang Wan (AGNH) is a well-known traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) recipe containing cinnabar (HgS) and realgar (As2S2). However, the application of AGNH is limited by the hepato- and nephrotoxicity of cinnabar and realgar. It should be noted that cinnabar and realgar in AGNH are not used alone, but rather combined with other herbs as formula to use. In this study, the protective effects and mechanisms of the other herbs in AGNH against the hepatorenal toxicity induced by cinnabar and realgar were investigated. The combination use of the other herbs in AGNH alleviated inflammatory cell infiltration and damage in the liver and kidney and restored the disturbed serum metabolic profile induced by cinnabar and realgar insults. By UPLC/Q-TOFMS combined with pattern recognition approaches, we identified 41 endogenous metabolites in the sera of mice that were related to the hepatorenal toxicity of cinnabar and realgar, 36 of which were restored to normal levels when various kinds of herbs were combined as compound recipe. These metabolites function as modulators in inflammation-associated glycerophospholipid, arachidonic acid, linoleic acid, sphingolipid, and ether lipid metabolic pathways. Notably, lysophosphatidylcholines (LysoPCs) were the most elevated among all of the metabolites detected after cinnabar and realgar treatment, while these LysoPCs did not show overt differences between the AGNH and saline control groups, which was associated with relatively unaffected or even up-regulated expression of lysophosphatidylcholine acyltransferase 1 (LPCAT1) and autotaxin (ATX). These findings indicated that other herbs in AGNH could have a protective effect against cinnabar- and realgar-induced hepatic and renal damage via modulating the disordered homeostasis of the glycerophospholipid, arachidonic acid, linoleic acid, ether lipid, and sphingolipid metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fangbo Xia
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, China
| | - Ao Li
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, China.,College of Pharmacy and Bioengineering, Chongqing University of Technology, Chongqing, China
| | - Yushuang Chai
- Guangzhou Baiyunshan Zhongyi Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiao Xiao
- College of Pharmacy and Bioengineering, Chongqing University of Technology, Chongqing, China
| | - Jianbo Wan
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, China
| | - Peng Li
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, China
| | - Yitao Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, China
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13
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Strungaru SA, Robea MA, Plavan G, Todirascu-Ciornea E, Ciobica A, Nicoara M. Acute exposure to methylmercury chloride induces fast changes in swimming performance, cognitive processes and oxidative stress of zebrafish (Danio rerio) as reference model for fish community. J Trace Elem Med Biol 2018; 47:115-123. [PMID: 29544797 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtemb.2018.01.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2017] [Revised: 01/09/2018] [Accepted: 01/31/2018] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Fishes are the first group of vertebrates that respond when the environment is contaminated with pollutants resulted from anthropogenic activities. The development of the toxicity tests is bringing new evidence about the toxicological effects of the pollutants upon the life forms. Behavioural abnormalities in the swimming performance and cognitive processes were well associated with the response of organisms to pollutants from environment. The aim of the paper was to study the behavioural changes of zebrafish (memory, swimming performances and aggression) and oxidative stress (superoxide dismutase and malondialdehyde) during 32 h of acute exposure with methylmercury (II) chloride to measure its neurotoxicity effects upon fish community. The experiments from this study tested and measured the fish community response to methylmercury concentrations (1 μg L-1 and 15 μg L-1) in the first hours after it contamination based on zebrafish model. The changes of the behaviour in the case of a fish species may lead in the end to their population reduction based on less reproductive success, lower food resource exploitation and problems in the predator avoidance. The behavioural tests described in the present study can be applied to measure the neurotoxicity of other metals compounds, to do plans and protocols for avoiding future ecological disasters. The behavioural changes of zebrafish exposed to methylmercury (II) chloride were similar to mammal models and they will have applications in future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan-Adrian Strungaru
- "Alexandru Ioan Cuza" University of Iasi, Department of Research, Faculty of Biology, Bd. Carol I, 20A, 700505, Iasi, Romania.
| | - Madalina Andreea Robea
- "Alexandru Ioan Cuza" University of Iasi, Department of Biology, Faculty of Biology, Bd. Carol I, 20A, 700505, Iasi, Romania
| | - Gabriel Plavan
- "Alexandru Ioan Cuza" University of Iasi, Department of Biology, Faculty of Biology, Bd. Carol I, 20A, 700505, Iasi, Romania
| | - Elena Todirascu-Ciornea
- "Alexandru Ioan Cuza" University of Iasi, Department of Biology, Faculty of Biology, Bd. Carol I, 20A, 700505, Iasi, Romania
| | - Alin Ciobica
- "Alexandru Ioan Cuza" University of Iasi, Department of Research, Faculty of Biology, Bd. Carol I, 20A, 700505, Iasi, Romania.
| | - Mircea Nicoara
- "Alexandru Ioan Cuza" University of Iasi, Department of Biology, Faculty of Biology, Bd. Carol I, 20A, 700505, Iasi, Romania
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14
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Tang H, Long N, Lin L, Liu Y, Li J, Sun F, Guo L, Zhang F, Dai M. Effect of MRSA on CYP450: dynamic changes of cytokines, oxidative stress, and drug-metabolizing enzymes in mice infected with MRSA. Infect Drug Resist 2018; 11:229-238. [PMID: 29491713 PMCID: PMC5815478 DOI: 10.2147/idr.s153871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a very damaging and widespread pathogen, which is associated with many diseases and causes serious infections. MRSA infection can modulate the effects of drugs, which may occur through an influence on cytochrome P450 (CYP450), the drug-metabolizing enzyme in the liver. In this study, we evaluated the underlying mechanism of drug failure or poisoning in MRSA infection. Materials and methods Mice were infected with three different doses of MRSA and the changes in CYP450 expression, cytokines, and oxidative stress markers were evaluated. Results The administration of an attack dose of MRSA caused serious symptoms of infection and resulted in a 40% mortality rate in the mice. MRSA induced strong inflammation and oxidative stress in the mice, predominantly caused by significant increases in interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-4, IL-6, macrophage inflammatory protein, glutathione S-transferase (GST), and malondialdehyde, and decreases in oxygen radical absorbance capacity and glutathione levels in the liver. The expression of IL-2, tumor necrosis factor-α, and GST was briefly suppressed, but increased on days 3 and 7. The increased inflammation and oxidative stress further induced a significant decrease in the mRNA levels and activities of CYP450 1A2, 2D22, 2E1, and 3A1 in MRSA-infected mice within the first day of infection. Conclusion These results show that MRSA infection leads to inflammation and oxidative stress, and reduces the expression levels and activities of drug metabolism enzymes, which decreased drug metabolism in patients infected with MRSA. Therefore, to avoid a drug overdose, the plasma concentration of patients with MRSA infection should be continuously monitored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huaqiao Tang
- School of Laboratory Medicine.,Laboratory of Veterinary Drug Residue Prevention and Control Technology of Animal-derived Food
| | - Nana Long
- School of Laboratory Medicine.,Laboratory of Veterinary Drug Residue Prevention and Control Technology of Animal-derived Food
| | - Lin Lin
- School of Laboratory Medicine.,Laboratory of Veterinary Drug Residue Prevention and Control Technology of Animal-derived Food
| | - Yao Liu
- School of Laboratory Medicine
| | - Jianlong Li
- School of Laboratory Medicine.,Laboratory of Veterinary Drug Residue Prevention and Control Technology of Animal-derived Food
| | - Fenghui Sun
- School of Laboratory Medicine.,Laboratory of Veterinary Drug Residue Prevention and Control Technology of Animal-derived Food
| | - Lijuan Guo
- School of Laboratory Medicine.,Laboratory of Veterinary Drug Residue Prevention and Control Technology of Animal-derived Food
| | - Fen Zhang
- School of Humanities and Information Management, Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Min Dai
- School of Laboratory Medicine.,Laboratory of Veterinary Drug Residue Prevention and Control Technology of Animal-derived Food
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15
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Liu J, Wei LX, Wang Q, Lu YF, Zhang F, Shi JZ, Li C, Cherian MG. A review of cinnabar (HgS) and/or realgar (As 4S 4)-containing traditional medicines. J Ethnopharmacol 2018; 210:340-350. [PMID: 28864167 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2017.08.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2017] [Revised: 08/27/2017] [Accepted: 08/28/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMOCOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Herbo-metallic preparations have a long history in the treatment of diseases, and are still used today for refractory diseases, as adjuncts to standard therapy, or for economic reasons in developing countries. AIM OF THE REVIEW This review uses cinnabar (HgS) and realgar (As4S4) as mineral examples to discuss their occurrence, therapeutic use, pharmacology, toxicity in traditional medicine mixtures, and research perspectives. MATERIALS AND METHODS A literature search on cinnabar and realgar from PubMed, Chinese pharmacopeia, Google and other sources was carried out. Traditional medicines containing both cinnabar and realgar (An-Gong-Niu-Huang Wan, Hua-Feng-Dan); mainly cinnabar (Zhu-Sha-An-Shen Wan; Zuotai and Dangzuo), and mainly realgar (Huang-Dai Pian; Liu-Shen Wan; Niu-Huang-Jie-Du) are discussed. RESULTS Both cinnabar and realgar used in traditional medicines are subjected to special preparation procedures to remove impurities. Metals in these traditional medicines are in the sulfide forms which are different from environmental mercurials (HgCl2, MeHg) or arsenicals (NaAsO2, NaH2AsO4). Cinnabar and/or realgar are seldom used alone, but rather as mixtures with herbs and/or animal products in traditional medicines. Advanced technologies are now used to characterize these preparations. The bioaccessibility, absorption, distribution, metabolism and elimination of these herbo-metallic preparations are different from environmental metals. The rationale of including metals in traditional remedies and their interactions with drugs need to be justified. At higher therapeutic doses, balance of the benefits and risks is critical. Surveillance of patients using these herbo-metallic preparations is desired. CONCLUSION Chemical forms of mercury and arsenic are a major determinant of their disposition, efficacy and toxicity, and the use of total Hg and As alone for risk assessment of metals in traditional medicines is insufficient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Liu
- Key Lab for Basic Pharmacology of Ministry of Education and Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou 563006, China.
| | - Li-Xin Wei
- Key Lab of Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Tibetan Medicine, Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xining 810008, China
| | - Qi Wang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Yuan-Fu Lu
- Key Lab for Basic Pharmacology of Ministry of Education and Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou 563006, China
| | - Feng Zhang
- Key Lab for Basic Pharmacology of Ministry of Education and Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou 563006, China
| | - Jing-Zhen Shi
- Central Lab of Guiyang Traditional Medical College, Guiyang 550004, China
| | - Cen Li
- Key Lab of Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Tibetan Medicine, Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xining 810008, China
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Li C, Xu W, Chu S, Zheng Z, Xiao Y, Li L, Bi H, Wei L. The chemical speciation, spatial distribution and toxicity of mercury from Tibetan medicine Zuotai,β-HgS and HgCl 2 in mouse kidney. J Trace Elem Med Biol 2018; 45:104-113. [PMID: 29173465 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtemb.2017.08.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2017] [Revised: 08/04/2017] [Accepted: 08/15/2017] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Zuotai, a famous Tibetan medicinal mixture containing β-HgS, has been used to combine with herbal remedies for treating diseases for more than 1 300 years. The target organ for inorganic mercury toxicity is generally considered to be the kidney. Therefore, it is crucial to reveal the chemical speciation, spatial distribution and potential nephrotoxicity of mercury from Zuotai in kidney. To date, this remains poorly understood. We used X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) and micro X-ray fluorescence (μ-XRF) imaging based on synchrotron radiation to study mercury chemical forms and mercury special distribution in kidney after mice were treated orally with Zuotai, β-HgS or HgCl2. Meanwhile, the histopathology of kidney was observed. Mice exposed with Zuotai showed kidney with significant proportion of mercury ions bound to sulfydryl biomolecules (e.g. Cys-S-Hg-S-Cys) plus some of unknown species, but without methylmercury cysteine, which is the same as β-HgS and HgCl2. The mercury is mainly deposited in renal cortex in mouse treated with Zuotai, β-HgS or HgCl2, but with a low level of mercury in medulla. The total mercury in kidney of mice treated with HgCl2 was much higher than that of β-HgS, and the later was higher than that of Zuotai. And, HgCl2 cause severe impairments in mouse kidney, but that was not observed in the Zuotai and β-HgS groups. Meanwhile, the bio-metals (Ca, Zn, Fe and Cu) micro-distributions in kidney were also revealed. These findings elucidated the chemical nature, spatial distribution and toxicity difference of mercury from Zuotai, β-HgS and HgCl2 in mouse kidney, and provide new insights into the appropriate methods for biological monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cen Li
- Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation Key Laboratory of Tibetan Medicine in Qinghai Province, Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xining, Qinghai, 810008, China; Key Laboratory of Tibetan Medicine Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xining, Qinghai, 810008, China
| | - Wei Xu
- Beijing Synchrotron Radiation Facility, Institute of High Energy Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Shengqi Chu
- Beijing Synchrotron Radiation Facility, Institute of High Energy Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Zhiyuan Zheng
- Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation Key Laboratory of Tibetan Medicine in Qinghai Province, Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xining, Qinghai, 810008, China; Key Laboratory of Tibetan Medicine Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xining, Qinghai, 810008, China
| | - Yuancan Xiao
- Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation Key Laboratory of Tibetan Medicine in Qinghai Province, Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xining, Qinghai, 810008, China; Key Laboratory of Tibetan Medicine Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xining, Qinghai, 810008, China
| | - Linshuai Li
- Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation Key Laboratory of Tibetan Medicine in Qinghai Province, Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xining, Qinghai, 810008, China; Key Laboratory of Tibetan Medicine Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xining, Qinghai, 810008, China
| | - Hongtai Bi
- Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation Key Laboratory of Tibetan Medicine in Qinghai Province, Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xining, Qinghai, 810008, China; Key Laboratory of Tibetan Medicine Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xining, Qinghai, 810008, China
| | - Lixin Wei
- Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation Key Laboratory of Tibetan Medicine in Qinghai Province, Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xining, Qinghai, 810008, China; Key Laboratory of Tibetan Medicine Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xining, Qinghai, 810008, China.
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17
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Zhang BB, Li WK, Hou WY, Luo Y, Shi JZ, Li C, Wei LX, Liu J. Zuotai and HgS differ from HgCl 2 and methyl mercury in Hg accumulation and toxicity in weanling and aged rats. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2017; 331:76-84. [PMID: 28536007 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2017.05.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2017] [Revised: 05/16/2017] [Accepted: 05/19/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Mercury sulfides are used in Ayurvedic medicines, Tibetan medicines, and Chinese medicines for thousands of years and are still used today. Cinnabar (α-HgS) and metacinnabar (β-HgS) are different from mercury chloride (HgCl2) and methylmercury (MeHg) in their disposition and toxicity. Whether such scenario applies to weanling and aged animals is not known. To address this question, weanling (21d) and aged (450d) rats were orally given Zuotai (54% β-HgS, 30mg/kg), HgS (α-HgS, 30mg/kg), HgCl2 (34.6mg/kg), or MeHg (MeHgCl, 3.2mg/kg) for 7days. Accumulation of Hg in kidney and liver, and the toxicity-sensitive gene expressions were examined. Animal body weight gain was decreased by HgCl2 and to a lesser extent by MeHg, but unaltered after Zuotai and HgS. HgCl2 and MeHg produced dramatic tissue Hg accumulation, increased kidney (kim-1 and Ngal) and liver (Ho-1) injury-sensitive gene expressions, but such changes are absent or mild after Zuotai and HgS. Aged rats were more susceptible than weanling rats to Hg toxicity. To examine roles of transporters in Hg accumulation, transporter gene expressions were examined. The expression of renal uptake transporters Oat1, Oct2, and Oatp4c1 and hepatic Oatp2 was decreased, while the expression of renal efflux transporter Mrp2, Mrp4 and Mdr1b was increased following HgCl2 and MeHg, but unaffected by Zuotai and HgS. Thus, Zuotai and HgS differ from HgCl2 and MeHg in producing tissue Hg accumulation and toxicity, and aged rats are more susceptible than weanling rats. Transporter expression could be adaptive means to reduce tissue Hg burden.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin-Bin Zhang
- Key Lab for Pharmacology of Ministry of Education, Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563000, China
| | - Wen-Kai Li
- Key Lab for Pharmacology of Ministry of Education, Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563000, China
| | - Wei-Yu Hou
- Key Lab for Pharmacology of Ministry of Education, Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563000, China
| | - Ya Luo
- School of Public Health, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563000, China
| | - Jing-Zhen Shi
- Guiyang Traditional Medical College, Guiyang 550004, China
| | - Cen Li
- Key Lab of Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Tibetan Medicine in Qinghai, Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xining 810008, China
| | - Li-Xin Wei
- Key Lab of Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Tibetan Medicine in Qinghai, Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xining 810008, China
| | - Jie Liu
- Key Lab for Pharmacology of Ministry of Education, Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563000, China.
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18
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Liu J, Lu YF, Li WK, Zhou ZP, Li YY, Yang X, Li C, Du YZ, Wei LX. Mercury sulfides are much less nephrotoxic than mercury chloride and methylmercury in mice. Toxicol Lett 2016; 262:153-60. [PMID: 27720909 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2016.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2016] [Revised: 09/29/2016] [Accepted: 10/02/2016] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Mercury sulfides (α-HgS, β-HgS) are frequently included in traditional medicines. Mercury is known for nephrotoxicity, their safety is of concern. To address this question, mice were orally administrated with Zuotai (54% β-HgS, 30mg/kg), α-HgS (HgS, 30mg/kg), HgCl2 (33.6mg/kg), or MeHgCl (3.1mg/kg) for 7days, and nephrotoxicity was examined. Animal body weights were decreased by HgCl2 and to a lesser extent by MeHg, but unaltered after Zuotai and HgS. HgCl2 and MeHg produced renal tubular vacuolation, interstitial inflammation and cell degeneration with protein cysts in the tubular lumen, while these pathological lesions were mild in Zuotai and HgS-treated mice. Electron microscopy showed that HgCl2 and MeHg produced spotted swelling endothelium reticulum, while these lesions were mild or absent in Zuotai and HgS-treated mice. Renal Hg contents reached 250-300ng/mg kidney in HgCl2 and MeHg groups as compared to 2-3ng/mg in Zuotai and HgS groups. The expression of kidney injury biomarkers, kidney injury molecule-1 (Kim-1) and neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (Ngal), were increased after HgCl2 and MeHg, but unaltered after Zuotai and HgS. The expression of renal influx transporters Oat3 and Oatp4c1 was decreased, while the expression of renal efflux transporter such as Mrp2, Mrp4, and Mate2 was increased following HgCl2 and MeHg. These gene expressions were unchanged after Zuotai and HgS. In summary, both α-HgS and β-HgS are less nephrotoxic than HgCl2 and MeHg, indicating that chemical forms of mercury are a major determinant of mercury disposition and toxicity.
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