1
|
Wu C, Li W, Li P, Niu X. Identification of a hub gene VCL for atherosclerotic plaques and discovery of potential therapeutic targets by molecular docking. BMC Med Genomics 2024; 17:42. [PMID: 38287421 PMCID: PMC10826019 DOI: 10.1186/s12920-024-01815-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 01/31/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Atherosclerosis (AS) is a pathology factor for cardiovascular diseases and instability of atherosclerotic plaques contributes to acute coronary events. This study identified a hub gene VCL for atherosclerotic plaques and discovered its potential therapeutic targets for atherosclerotic plaques. METHODS Differential expressed genes (DEGs) were screened between unstable and stable plaques from GSE120521 dataset and then used for construction of a protein-protein interactions (PPI) network. Through topological analysis, hub genes were identified within this PPI network, followed by construction of a diagnostic model. GSE41571 dataset was utilized to validate the diagnostic model. A key hub gene was identified and its association with immune characteristics and pathways were further investigated. Molecular docking and molecular dynamics (MD) simulation were employed to discover potential therapeutic targets. RESULTS According to the PPI network, 3 tightly connected protein clusters were found. Topological analysis identified the top 5 hub genes, Vinculin (VCL), Dystrophin (DMD), Actin alpha 2 (ACTA2), Filamin A (FLNA), and transgelin (TAGLN). Among these hub genes, VCL had the highest diagnostic value. VCL was selected for further analysis and we found that VCL was negatively correlated with immune score and AS-related inflammatory pathways. Next, we identified 408 genes that were highly correlated with VCL and determined potential drug candidates. The results from molecular docking and MD simulation showed compound DB07117 combined with VCL protein stably, the binding energy is -7.7 kcal/mol, indicating that compound DB07117 was a potential inhibitor of VCL protein. CONCLUSION This study identified VCL as a key gene for atherosclerotic plaques and provides a potential therapeutic target of VCL for the treatment of atherosclerotic plaques.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chong Wu
- The Fifth Clinical Medical College of Henan University of Chinese Medicine (Zhengzhou People's Hospital), Zhengzhou, 450046, China.
| | - Wei Li
- Clinical Laboratory, Qingdao Women and Children's Hospital Affiliated, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266034, China
| | - Panfeng Li
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Heart Center of Henan Provincial People's Hospital, Fuwai Central China Cardiovascular Hospital, Central China Fuwai Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450000, China.
| | - Xiaoyang Niu
- Department of Vascular Surgery, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450000, China
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Lee SJ, Lee AY, Pak SW, Kim WI, Yang YG, Lim JO, Chae SW, Cho YK, Kim JC, Moon BC, Seo YS, Shin IS. Protective effects of Angelica decursiva Franchet & Savatier on allergic responses through enhancement of Nrf2 and suppression of NF-kB/MMP-9 in ovalbumin-exposed mice. J Ethnopharmacol 2024; 318:116863. [PMID: 37423516 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.116863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [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: 05/23/2023] [Revised: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Angelica decursiva Franchet & Savatier is a traditional medicinal plant used to treat asthma, cough, headache, pyrexia and thick phlegm in China, Japan and Korea. A. decursiva contains many types of coumarins, which can exert several pharmacological activities including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties for treating various diseases such as pneumonitis, atopic dermatitis, diabetes, and Alzheimer's disease. AIM OF THE STUDY In this study, we analyzed the components of A. decursiva ethanol extract (ADE) by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and investigated the therapeutic effects of ADE against allergic asthma using lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimulated RAW264.7 cells and an ovalbumin (OVA)-exposed allergic asthma model. To elucidate the mechanism of action of ADE, we examined the protein expression through network pharmacological analysis. MATERIALS AND METHODS To establish asthma model, the mice were sensitized on day 0 and 14 via intraperitoneal injection of OVA with aluminum hydroxide. The mice were inhaled with OVA using an ultrasonic nebulizer on day 21, 22 and 23. ADE (50 and 100 mg/kg) was administered to mice by oral gave form day 18-23. On day 24, airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR) was measured using flexivent. On day 25, the mice were sacrificed and collected bronchoalveolar lavage fluids (BALF), serum and lung tissue. In LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 cell, nitric oxide and cytokines were measured. Additionally, expression of nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor (Nrf2) and suppression of nuclear factor (NF)-κB were detected using double-immunofluorescence. RESULTS We detected the five coumarin components which included nodakenin, umbelliferon, (-)-marmesin (=nodakenetin), bergapten, and decursin, in ADE by high performance liquid chromatography. Treatment with ADE decreased the production of nitric oxide, interleukin (IL)-6 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α in LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 cells accompanied by the enhanced expression of nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor (Nrf2) and suppression of nuclear factor (NF)-κB. In the asthma model, the administration of ADE reduced inflammatory cell count and airway hyperresponsiveness in OVA-exposed animals with decreased levels of IL-4, IL-13, and OVA-specific immunoglobulin E. These results were accompanied by the reduction of pulmonary inflammation and mucus secretion. Furthermore, ADE administration inhibited the expression of NF-κB and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9 in OVA-exposed animals, which was consistent with the results of network pharmacological analysis. CONCLUSION This study demonstrated that ADE effectively attenuated allergic inflammation induced by OVA inhalation through the enhancement of Nrf2 expression and suppression of NF-κB expression. Therefore, ADE may be a potential therapeutic agent for controlling asthma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Se-Jin Lee
- College of Veterinary Medicine and BK21 FOUR Program, Chonnam National University, 77 Yong-bong-ro, Buk-gu, Gwangju, 61186, Republic of Korea
| | - A Yeong Lee
- Herbal Medicine Resources Research Division, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, 177 Geonjae-ro, Naju-si, Jeonnam, 58245, Republic of Korea; Department of Biotechnology, The Catholic University of Korea, 43 Jibong-ro, Wonmi-gu, Bucheon-si, Gyeonggi-do, 14662, Republic of Korea; Department of BioMedical-Chemical Engineering, The Catholic University of Korea, 43, Jibong-ro, Wonmi-gu, Gyeonggi-do, Bucheon-si, 14662, Republic of Korea
| | - So-Won Pak
- College of Veterinary Medicine and BK21 FOUR Program, Chonnam National University, 77 Yong-bong-ro, Buk-gu, Gwangju, 61186, Republic of Korea
| | - Woong-Il Kim
- College of Veterinary Medicine and BK21 FOUR Program, Chonnam National University, 77 Yong-bong-ro, Buk-gu, Gwangju, 61186, Republic of Korea
| | - Yea-Gin Yang
- College of Veterinary Medicine and BK21 FOUR Program, Chonnam National University, 77 Yong-bong-ro, Buk-gu, Gwangju, 61186, Republic of Korea
| | - Je-Oh Lim
- Herbal Medicine Resources Research Division, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, 177 Geonjae-ro, Naju-si, Jeonnam, 58245, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung-Wook Chae
- KM Convergence Research Division, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, 1672 Yuseong-daero, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon, 34054, Republic of Korea; Center for Companion Animal New Drug Development, Jeonbuk Branch, Korea Institute of Toxicology (KIT), 30 Baekhak1-gil, Jeongeup-si, Jeollabuk-do, 53212, Republic of Korea
| | - Young-Kwon Cho
- College of Health Sciences, Cheongju University, 298 Daesung-ro, Sangdang-gu, Cheongju-si, Chungbuk, 28503, Republic of Korea
| | - Jong-Choon Kim
- College of Veterinary Medicine and BK21 FOUR Program, Chonnam National University, 77 Yong-bong-ro, Buk-gu, Gwangju, 61186, Republic of Korea
| | - Byeong Cheol Moon
- Herbal Medicine Resources Research Division, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, 177 Geonjae-ro, Naju-si, Jeonnam, 58245, Republic of Korea
| | - Yun-Soo Seo
- Herbal Medicine Resources Research Division, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, 177 Geonjae-ro, Naju-si, Jeonnam, 58245, Republic of Korea; Center for Companion Animal New Drug Development, Jeonbuk Branch, Korea Institute of Toxicology (KIT), 30 Baekhak1-gil, Jeongeup-si, Jeollabuk-do, 53212, Republic of Korea.
| | - In-Sik Shin
- College of Veterinary Medicine and BK21 FOUR Program, Chonnam National University, 77 Yong-bong-ro, Buk-gu, Gwangju, 61186, Republic of Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Wang J, Li J, Hu M. Mechanism analysis of Buyang Huanwu decoction in treating atherosclerosis based on network pharmacology and in vitro experiments. Chem Biol Drug Des 2024; 103:e14447. [PMID: 38230788 DOI: 10.1111/cbdd.14447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
Atherosclerosis (AS) is one of the main risk factors of ischemic cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. Buyang Huanwu decoction (BYHWT) is a classic Chinese medicine prescription that is used for treating AS. However, the underlying pharmacological mechanism remains unclear. This study aims to clarify the molecular mechanism of BYHWT in treatment of AS through network pharmacology and in vitro experiments. Molecular structure information and targets of core components of BYHWT were obtained from PubChem and UniProtKB databases. Genes involved in AS were obtained from DisGeNet, GeneCards and OMIM databases. The core targets of BYHWT in AS treatment were identified by protein-protein interaction (PPI) network analysis with STRING platform, and analyzed by gene ontology (GO) analysis and the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomics (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis. Molecular docking was used to verify the binding affinity between the core targets and the bioactive ingredients. HUVEC viability, inflammatory response and mRNA expression levels of core target genes were evaluated by cell counting kit 8 assay, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and qRT-PCR. A total of 60 candidate compounds and 325 predicted target genes were screened. PPI network analysis suggested that TP53, SRC, STAT3, and AKT1 may be the core targets. BYHWT in AS treatment was associated with 46 signaling pathways. GA120, baicalein, and 3,9-di-o-methylnissolin had good binding affinity with core target proteins. Baicalein treatment could significantly promoted the viability and repress the inflammatory response of HUVEC cells stimulated by ox-LDL. In addition, Baicalein can regulate the expression of core targets including AKT1, MAPK1, PIK3CA, JUN, TP53, SRC, EGFR, and ESR1. In conclusion, BYHWT and its main bioactive component baicalein, inhibit inflammatory response and modulate multiple downstream genes of endothelial cells, and show good potential to block the progression of AS and cardiovascular/cerebrovascular diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jing Wang
- Division of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jiajun Li
- Division of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Min Hu
- Division of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Sadaqat M, Qasim M, Tahir Ul Qamar M, Masoud MS, Ashfaq UA, Noor F, Fatima K, Allemailem KS, Alrumaihi F, Almatroudi A. Advanced network pharmacology study reveals multi-pathway and multi-gene regulatory molecular mechanism of Bacopa monnieri in liver cancer based on data mining, molecular modeling, and microarray data analysis. Comput Biol Med 2023; 161:107059. [PMID: 37244150 DOI: 10.1016/j.compbiomed.2023.107059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [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: 11/27/2022] [Revised: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
Liver cancer is a malignant tumor that grows on the surface or inside the liver. The leading cause is a viral infection with hepatitis B or C virus. Natural products and their structural analogues have historically made a major contribution to pharmacotherapy, especially for cancer. A list of studies evidences the therapeutic efficacy of Bacopa monnieri against liver cancer, but the precise molecular mechanism is yet to be discovered. This study combines data mining, network pharmacology, and molecular docking analysis to potentially revolutionize liver cancer treatment by identifying effective phytochemicals. Initially, the information on active constituents of B. monnieri and target genes of both liver cancer and B. monnieri were retrieved from literature as well as from publicly available databases. Based on the matching results between B. monnieri potential targets and liver cancer targets, the protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed using the STRING database and imported into Cytoscape for screening of hub genes based on their degree of connectivity. Later, the interactions network between compounds and overlapping genes was constructed using Cytoscape software to analyze the network pharmacological prospective effects of B. monnieri on liver cancer. Gene Ontology (GO) and KEGG pathway analysis of hub genes revealed that these genes are involved in the cancer-related pathway. Lastly, the expression level of core targets was analyzed using microarray data (GSE39791, GSE76427, GSE22058, GSE87630, and GSE112790). Further, the GEPIA server and PyRx software were used for survival and molecular docking analysis, respectively. In summary, we proposed that quercetin, luteolin, apigenin, catechin, epicatechin, stigmasterol, beta-sitosterol, celastrol, and betulic acid inhibit tumor growth by affecting tumor protein 53 (TP53), interleukin 6 (IL6), RAC-alpha serine/threonine protein kinases 1 (AKT1), caspase-3 (CASP3), tumor necrosis factor (TNF), jun proto-oncogene (JUN), heat shot protein 90 AA1 (HSP90AA1), vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA), epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), and SRC proto-oncogene (SRC). Through, microarray data analysis, the expression level of JUN and IL6 were found to be upregulated while the expression level of HSP90AA1 was found to be downregulated. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis indicated that HSP90AA1 and JUN are promising candidate genes that can serve as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers for liver cancer. Moreover, the molecular docking and molecular dynamic simulation of 60ns well complemented the binding affinity of the compound and revealed strong stability of predicted compounds at the docked site. Calculation of binding free energies using MMPBSA and MMGBSA validated the strong binding affinity between the compound and binding pockets of HSP90AA1 and JUN. Despite that, in vivo and in vitro studies are mandatory to unveil pharmacokinetics and biosafety profiles to completely track the candidature status of B. monnieri in liver cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Sadaqat
- Department of Bioinformatics and Biotechnology, Government College University Faisalabad (GCUF), Faisalabad, 38000, Pakistan.
| | - Muhammad Qasim
- Department of Bioinformatics and Biotechnology, Government College University Faisalabad (GCUF), Faisalabad, 38000, Pakistan.
| | - Muhammad Tahir Ul Qamar
- Department of Bioinformatics and Biotechnology, Government College University Faisalabad (GCUF), Faisalabad, 38000, Pakistan.
| | - Muhammad Shareef Masoud
- Department of Bioinformatics and Biotechnology, Government College University Faisalabad (GCUF), Faisalabad, 38000, Pakistan.
| | - Usman Ali Ashfaq
- Department of Bioinformatics and Biotechnology, Government College University Faisalabad (GCUF), Faisalabad, 38000, Pakistan.
| | - Fatima Noor
- Department of Bioinformatics and Biotechnology, Government College University Faisalabad (GCUF), Faisalabad, 38000, Pakistan.
| | - Kinza Fatima
- Department of Bioinformatics and Biotechnology, Government College University Faisalabad (GCUF), Faisalabad, 38000, Pakistan.
| | - Khaled S Allemailem
- Department of Medical Laboratories, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Qassim University, Buraydah, 51452, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Faris Alrumaihi
- Department of Medical Laboratories, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Qassim University, Buraydah, 51452, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Ahmad Almatroudi
- Department of Medical Laboratories, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Qassim University, Buraydah, 51452, Saudi Arabia.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Jiao Y, Shi C, Sun Y. Unraveling the Role of Scutellaria baicalensis for the Treatment of Breast Cancer Using Network Pharmacology, Molecular Docking, and Molecular Dynamics Simulation. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24. [PMID: 36835006 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24043594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2022] [Revised: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Scutellaria baicalensis is often used to treat breast cancer, but the molecular mechanism behind the action is unclear. In this study, network pharmacology, molecular docking, and molecular dynamics simulation are combined to reveal the most active compound in Scutellaria baicalensis and to explore the interaction between the compound molecule and the target protein in the treatment of breast cancer. In total, 25 active compounds and 91 targets were screened out, mainly enriched in lipids in atherosclerosis, the AGE-RAGE signal pathway of diabetes complications, human cytomegalovirus infection, Kaposi-sarcoma-associated herpesvirus infection, the IL-17 signaling pathway, small-cell lung cancer, measles, proteoglycans in cancer, human immunodeficiency virus 1 infection, and hepatitis B. Molecular docking shows that the two most active compounds, i.e., stigmasterol and coptisine, could bind well to the target AKT1. According to the MD simulations, the coptisine-AKT1 complex shows higher conformational stability and lower interaction energy than the stigmasterol-AKT1 complex. On the one hand, our study demonstrates that Scutellaria baicalensis has the characteristics of multicomponent and multitarget synergistic effects in the treatment of breast cancer. On the other hand, we suggest that the best effective compound is coptisine targeting AKT1, which can provide a theoretical basis for the further study of the drug-like active compounds and offer molecular mechanisms behind their roles in the treatment of breast cancer.
Collapse
|
6
|
Sun RJ, Xu J, Gao W, Zhang YY, Sun XQ, Ji L, Cui X. Effect of Guizhi Fuling Capsule on Apoptosis of Myeloma Cells Through Mitochondrial Apoptosis Pathway. Chin J Integr Med 2023; 29:127-136. [PMID: 36401751 DOI: 10.1007/s11655-022-3624-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To observe the effects of Guizhi Fuling Capsule (GZFLC) on myeloma cells and explore the mechanisms. METHODS MM1S and RPMI 8226 cells were co-cultured with different concentrations of serum and the cell experiments were divided into negative (10%, 20% and 40%) groups, GZFLC (10%, 20%, and 40%) groups and a control group. Cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assays and flow cytometry were used to detect the viability and apoptosis levels of myeloma cells. The effects on mitochondria were examined by reactive oxygen specie (ROS) and tetrechloro-tetraethylbenzimidazol carbocyanine iodide (JC-1) assays. Western blot was used to detect the expression of B cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2), Bcl-2-associated X (Bax), cleaved caspase-3, -9, cytochrome C (Cytc) and apoptotic protease-activating factor 1 (Apaf-1). RPMI 8226 cells (2 × 107) were subcutaneously inoculated into 48 nude mice to study the in vivo antitumor effects of GZFLC. The mice were randomly divided into four groups using a completely randomized design, the high-, medium-, or low-dose GZFLC (840, 420, or 210 mg/kg per day, respectively) or an equal volume of distilled water, administered daily for 15 days. The tumor volume changes in and survival times of the mice in the GZFLC-administered groups and a control group were observed. Cytc and Apaf-1 expression levels were detected by immunohistochemistry. RESULTS GZFLC drug serum decreased the viability and increased the apoptosis of myeloam cells (P<0.05). In addition, this drug increased the ROS levels and decreased the mitochondrial membrane potential (P<0.01). Western blot showed that the Bcl-2/Bax ratios were decreased in the GZFLC drug serum-treated groups, whereas the expression levels of cleaved caspase-3, -9, Cytc and Apaf-1 were increased (all P<0.01). Over time, the myeloma tumor volumes of the mice in the GZFLC-administered groups decreased, and survival time of the mice in the GZFLC-administered groups were longer than that of the mice in the control group. Immunohistochemical analysis of tumor tissues from the mice in the GZFLC-administered groups revealed that the Cytc and Apaf-1 expression levels were increased (P<0.05). CONCLUSION GZFLC promoted apoptosis of myeloma cells through the mitochondrial apoptosis pathway and significantly reduced the tumor volumes in mice with myeloma, which prolonged the survival times of the mice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Run-Jie Sun
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, 250014, China
| | - Jie Xu
- Department of Hematology, Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, 250014, China
| | - Wei Gao
- Department of Laboratory, Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, 250014, China
| | - Yan-Yu Zhang
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, 250014, China
| | - Xiao-Qi Sun
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, 250014, China
| | - Lin Ji
- Department of Neurology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, 250001, China
| | - Xing Cui
- Department of Oncology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, 250001, China.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Li H, Gao L, Shao H, Li B, Zhang C, Sheng H, Zhu L. Elucidation of active ingredients and mechanism of action of hawthorn in the prevention and treatment of atherosclerosis. J Food Biochem 2022; 46:e14457. [PMID: 36200679 DOI: 10.1111/jfbc.14457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [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: 03/29/2022] [Revised: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Hawthorn (HT), a functional food and medicinal herb for centuries in China, has potential preventive and therapeutic effects on atherosclerosis (AS). However, the mechanisms and active ingredients of HT in the prevention and treatment of AS are unclear. This study aimed to reveal active components and mechanism of HT in the prevention and treatment of AS using UHPLC-Q-Exactive Orbitrap MS and network pharmacology. A total of 50 compounds were identified by UHPLC-Q-Exactive Orbitrap MS. Six core targets and six active compounds were obtained by network pharmacology. Apigenin, luteolin, chrysin, quercetin, oleanic acid, and corosolic acid were the active components in the prevention and treatment of AS, and core targets included SRC, HSP90AA1, MAPK3, EGFR, HRAS, and AKT1. The key signaling pathways involved are MAPK, HIF-1, NF-kappa B, PI3K-Akt, TNF, Rap1, Ras, and VEGF signaling pathways. Further molecular docking results indicated that the six active compounds had strong hydrogen bonding ability with the six core targets. On the molecular level, HT may regulate AS by controlling cell survival and proliferation, reducing the levels of enzymes HMG-CoA reductase and lipoprotein lipase and inhibiting inflammatory response. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: HT can serve as "medicine-food homology" for dietary supplement and exert potential preventive and therapeutic effects on AS. However, the mechanisms of HT in the prevention and treatment of AS are unclear. This study describes a rapid method of detecting and identifying the components and mechanism of HT based on LC-MS and network pharmacology, which provides a theoretical and scientific support for further application of HT and guidance for the research of other herbal medicines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Huan Li
- College of Pharmacy, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Lei Gao
- College of Pharmacy, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Huili Shao
- College of Pharmacy, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Bingqian Li
- College of Pharmacy, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Chao Zhang
- College of Pharmacy, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Huagang Sheng
- College of Pharmacy, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Liqiao Zhu
- College of Pharmacy, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Park S, Lee AY, Lim J, Lee S, Kim W, Yang Y, Kim B, Kim J, Chae S, Na K, Seo Y, Shin I. Loranthus tanakae Franch. & Sav. Suppresses Inflammatory Response in Cigarette Smoke Condensate Exposed Bronchial Epithelial Cells and Mice. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:1885. [PMID: 36290608 PMCID: PMC9598098 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11101885] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2022] [Revised: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Loranthus tanakae Franch. & Sav. found in China, Japan, and Korea is traditionally used for managing arthritis and respiratory diseases. In this study, we analyzed the components of L. tanakae 70% ethanol extract (LTE) and investigated the therapeutic effects of LTE on pulmonary inflammation using cells exposed to cigarette smoke condensate (CSC) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in vitro and in vivo in mice and performed a network analysis between components and genes based on a public database. We detected quercitrin, afzelin, rhamnetin 3-rhamnoside, and rhamnocitrin 3-rhamnoside in LTE, which induced a significant reduction in inflammatory mediators including interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and inflammatory cells in CSC exposed H292 cells and in mice, accompanied by a reduction in inflammatory cell infiltration into lung tissue. In addition, LTE increased translocation into the nuclei of nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor 2 (Nrf2). By contrast, the activation of nuclear factor (NF)-κB, induced by CSC exposure, decreased after LTE application. These results were consistent with the network pharmacological analysis. In conclusion, LTE effectively attenuated pulmonary inflammation caused by CSC+LPS exposure, which was closely involved in the enhancement of Nrf2 expression and suppression of NF-κB activation. Therefore, LTE may be a potential treatment option for pulmonary inflammatory diseases including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Collapse
|
9
|
Abstract
Natural products possess pleiotropic cardiovascular protective effects owing to their anti-oxidation, anti-inflammation and anti-thrombotic properties. Kaempferol, (3,5,7-trihydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-4H-1-benzopyran-4-one), is a kind of naturally occurring flavonoid existing in many common fruits and vegetables (e.g., onions, broccoli, strawberries and grapes) and particularly in traditional Chinese medicine as exemplified by Ginkgo biloba. Epidemiological, preclinical and clinical studies have revealed an inverse association between the consumption of kaempferol-containing foods and medicines and the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases. Numerous translational studies in experimental animal models and cultured cells have demonstrated a wide range of pharmacological activities of kaempferol. In this article, we reviewed the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and cardio-protective activities of kaempferol and elucidated the potential molecular basis of the therapeutic capacity of kaempferol by focusing on its anti-atherosclerotic effects. Overall, the review presents the health benefits of kaempferol-containing plants and medicines and reflects on the potential of kaempferol as a possible drug candidate to prevent and treat atherosclerosis, the underlying pathology of most cardiovascular diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Meijie Chen
- Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, Clinical Research Hospital of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Hefei), University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Jianbo Xiao
- Department of Analytical Chemistry and Food Science, University of Vigo, Vigo, Spain
| | - Hesham R El-Seedi
- Pharmacognosy Group, Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
- International Research Center for Food Nutrition and Safety, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | | | - Maria Daglia
- International Research Center for Food Nutrition and Safety, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Napoli Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Peter J Little
- School of Pharmacy, University of Queensland, Pharmacy Australia Centre of Excellence, Woolloongabba, QLD, Australia
| | - Jianping Weng
- Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, Clinical Research Hospital of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Hefei), University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Suowen Xu
- Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, Clinical Research Hospital of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Hefei), University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Liu J, Yuan S, Yao Y, Wang J, Scalabrino G, Jiang S, Sheridan H. Network Pharmacology and Molecular Docking Elucidate the Underlying Pharmacological Mechanisms of the Herb Houttuynia cordata in Treating Pneumonia Caused by SARS-CoV-2. Viruses 2022; 14:v14071588. [PMID: 35891565 PMCID: PMC9324059 DOI: 10.3390/v14071588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Revised: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Used in Asian countries, including China, Japan, and Thailand, Houttuynia cordata Thumb (H. cordata; Saururaceae, HC) is a traditional herbal medicine that possesses favorable antiviral properties. As a potent folk therapy used to treat pulmonary infections, further research is required to fully elucidate the mechanisms of its pharmacological activities and explore its therapeutic potential for treating pneumonia caused by SARS-CoV-2. This study explores the pharmacological mechanism of HC on pneumonia using a network pharmacological approach combined with reprocessing expression profiling by high-throughput sequencing to demonstrate the therapeutic mechanisms of HC for treating pneumonia at a systemic level. The integration of these analyses suggested that target factors are involved in four signaling pathways, including PI3K-Akt, Jak-STAT, MAPK, and NF-kB. Molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation were applied to verify these results, indicating a stable combination between four metabolites (Afzelin, Apigenin, Kaempferol, Quercetin) and six targets (DPP4, ELANE, HSP90AA1, IL6, MAPK1, SERPINE1). These natural metabolites have also been reported to bind with ACE2 and 3CLpro of SARS-CoV-2, respectively. The data suggest that HC exerts collective therapeutic effects against pneumonia caused by SARS-CoV-2 and provides a theoretical basis for further study of the active drug-like ingredients and mechanism of HC in treating pneumonia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Junying Liu
- NatPro Center, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Trinity College Dublin, D02PN40 Dublin, Ireland; (J.L.); (J.W.); (G.S.)
| | - Shouli Yuan
- Academy for Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies, Peking University, Beijing 100080, China;
| | - Yao Yao
- Biocomputing and Developmental Systems, Lero—The Science Foundation Ireland Research Centre for Software, Department of Computer Science & Information Systems, The University of Limerick, V94T9PX Limerick, Ireland;
| | - Jinfan Wang
- NatPro Center, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Trinity College Dublin, D02PN40 Dublin, Ireland; (J.L.); (J.W.); (G.S.)
| | - Gaia Scalabrino
- NatPro Center, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Trinity College Dublin, D02PN40 Dublin, Ireland; (J.L.); (J.W.); (G.S.)
| | - Shibo Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology (MOE/NHC/CAMS), School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Institute of Infectious Disease and Biosecurity, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
- Correspondence: (S.J.); (H.S.)
| | - Helen Sheridan
- NatPro Center, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Trinity College Dublin, D02PN40 Dublin, Ireland; (J.L.); (J.W.); (G.S.)
- Correspondence: (S.J.); (H.S.)
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Sun T, Quan W, Peng S, Yang D, Liu J, He C, Chen Y, Hu B, Tuo Q. Network Pharmacology-Based Strategy Combined with Molecular Docking and in vitro Validation Study to Explore the Underlying Mechanism of Huo Luo Xiao Ling Dan in Treating Atherosclerosis. Drug Des Devel Ther 2022; 16:1621-1645. [PMID: 35669282 PMCID: PMC9166517 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s357483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2022] [Accepted: 05/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Huo Luo Xiao Ling Dan (HLXLD), a famous Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) classical formula, possesses anti-atherosclerosis (AS) activity. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms remain obscure. Aim The network pharmacology approach, molecular docking strategy, and in vitro validation experiment were performed to explore the potential active compounds, key targets, main signaling pathways, and underlying molecular mechanisms of HLXLD in treating AS. Methods Several public databases were used to search for active components and targets of HLXLD, as well as AS-related targets. Crucial bioactive ingredients, potential targets, and signaling pathways were acquired through bioinformatics analysis. Subsequently, the molecular docking strategy and molecular dynamics simulation were carried out to predict the affinity and stability of active compounds and key targets. In vitro cell experiment was performed to verify the findings from bioinformatics analysis. Results A total of 108 candidate compounds and 321 predicted target genes were screened. Bioinformatics analysis suggested that quercetin, dihydrotanshinone I, pelargonidin, luteolin, guggulsterone, and β-sitosterol may be the main ingredients. STAT3, HSP90AA1, TP53, and AKT1 could be the key targets. MAPK signaling pathway might play an important role in HLXLD against AS. Molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation results suggested that the active compounds bound well and stably to their targets. Cell experiments showed that the intracellular accumulation of lipid and increased secretory of TNF-α, IL-1β, and MCP-1 in ox-LDL treated RAW264.7 cells, which can be significantly suppressed by pretreating with dihydrotanshinone I. The up-regulation of STAT3, ERK, JNK, and p38 phosphorylation induced by ox-LDL can be inhibited by pretreating with dihydrotanshinone I. Conclusion Our findings comprehensively demonstrated the active compounds, key targets, main signaling pathways, and underlying molecular mechanisms of HLXLD in treating AS. These findings would provide a scientific basis for the study of the complex mechanisms underlying disease and drug action.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Taoli Sun
- School of Pharmacy, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, 410208, People’s Republic of China
| | - Wenjuan Quan
- School of Pharmacy, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, 410208, People’s Republic of China
| | - Sha Peng
- School of Pharmacy, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, 410208, People’s Republic of China
| | - Dongmei Yang
- School of Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, 410208, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jiaqin Liu
- Department of Pharmacy, the Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, People’s Republic of China
| | - Chaoping He
- School of Pharmacy, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, 410208, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yu Chen
- School of Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, 410208, People’s Republic of China
| | - Bo Hu
- School of Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, 410208, People’s Republic of China
| | - Qinhui Tuo
- School of Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, 410208, People’s Republic of China
- The First hospital of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, 410007, People’s Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Gao J, Yang J, Lu Z, Dong X, Xu Y. The Multiple Pharmacologic Functions and Mechanisms of Action of Guizhi Fuling Formulation. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med 2022; 2022:6813421. [PMID: 35529925 DOI: 10.1155/2022/6813421] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Accepted: 04/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Objectives Guizhi Fuling Formulation (GZFL), a traditional Chinese medical formulation, consists of Cinnamomi Ramulus, Paeoniae Radix Alba (or Paeoniae Radix Rubra), Moutan Cortex, Persicae Semen, and Poria, with multiple therapeutic functions such as sedation, antitumor activity, anti-inflammation, and neuroprotection. However, its clinical applications remain relatively fragmented, and the underlying mechanisms of GZFL in different diseases are still not very certain. Further research and summary in both application and mechanisms remain to be needed for human health and the best use of GZFL. Therefore, we summarized the multiple pharmacologic effects and possible mechanisms of action of GZFL according to recent 17 years of research. Methods We retrieved four English and two Chinese databases using these keywords (the formulation name or its synonyms) and searched articles written in English from January 2006 up to February 2022. Key Findings. GZFL exhibits multiple pharmacologic advantages in gynecologic diseases and other expanding diseases such as cancer, blood, and vascular disease, renal failure, inflammation, and brain injury. Possibly due to its diverse bioactive components and pharmacologic activities, GZFL could target the multiple signaling pathways involved in regulating blood circulation, inflammatory and immune factors, proliferation, apoptosis, and so on. Conclusion This review suggests that GZFL displays promising therapeutic effects for many kinds of diseases, which have been beyond the scope of the original prescription for gynecologic diseases. In this way, we wish to provide a reference and recommendation for further preclinic and clinic studies.
Collapse
|
13
|
Pak SW, Lee AY, Seo YS, Lee SJ, Kim WI, Shin DH, Kim JC, Kim JS, Lim JO, Shin IS. Anti-asthmatic effects of Phlomis umbrosa Turczaninow using ovalbumin induced asthma murine model and network pharmacology analysis. Biomed Pharmacother 2021; 145:112410. [PMID: 34775237 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2021.112410] [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] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Revised: 11/02/2021] [Accepted: 11/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Phlomis umbrosa Turczaninow has been used as a tradition herbal medicine for treating various inflammatory diseases. PURPOSE In present study, we explored the effects of P. umbrosa on asthma induced by ovalbumin (OVA) and elucidated the mechanism via in vivo verification and network pharmacology prediction. METHODS The animals were intraperitoneally injected OVA on day 1 and 14, followed by OVA inhalation on days 21, 22, and 23. The animals were daily treated P. umbrosa extract (PUE, 20 and 40 mg/kg) by oral gavage from day 18 to day 23. RESULTS PUE significantly decreased airway hyperresponsiveness, eosinophilia, and the production of inflammatory cytokines and OVA specific immunoglobulin E in animals with asthma, along with a reduction in airway inflammation and mucus secretion in lung tissue. In network analysis, antiasthmatic effects of PUE were closely related with suppression of mitogen-activated protein kinases and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). Consistent with the results from network analysis, PUE suppressed the phosphorylation of ERK and p65, which was accompanied by a decline in MMP-9 expression. CONCLUSION Administration of PUE effectively reduced allergic responses in asthmatic mice, which was associated with the suppressed phosphorylation of ERK and p65, and expression of MMP-9. These results indicate that PUE has therapeutic potential to treat allergic asthma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- So-Won Pak
- College of Veterinary Medicine and BK21 FOUR Program, Chonnam National University, 77 Yongbong-ro, Buk-gu, Gwangju 61186, South Korea
| | - A Yeong Lee
- Herbal Medicine Resources Research Center, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, 111 Geonjae-ro, Naju-si, Jeollanam-do 58245, South Korea
| | - Yun-Soo Seo
- Herbal Medicine Resources Research Center, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, 111 Geonjae-ro, Naju-si, Jeollanam-do 58245, South Korea
| | - Se-Jin Lee
- College of Veterinary Medicine and BK21 FOUR Program, Chonnam National University, 77 Yongbong-ro, Buk-gu, Gwangju 61186, South Korea
| | - Woong-Il Kim
- College of Veterinary Medicine and BK21 FOUR Program, Chonnam National University, 77 Yongbong-ro, Buk-gu, Gwangju 61186, South Korea
| | - Dong-Ho Shin
- College of Veterinary Medicine and BK21 FOUR Program, Chonnam National University, 77 Yongbong-ro, Buk-gu, Gwangju 61186, South Korea
| | - Jong-Choon Kim
- College of Veterinary Medicine and BK21 FOUR Program, Chonnam National University, 77 Yongbong-ro, Buk-gu, Gwangju 61186, South Korea
| | - Joong-Sun Kim
- College of Veterinary Medicine and BK21 FOUR Program, Chonnam National University, 77 Yongbong-ro, Buk-gu, Gwangju 61186, South Korea
| | - Je-Oh Lim
- College of Veterinary Medicine and BK21 FOUR Program, Chonnam National University, 77 Yongbong-ro, Buk-gu, Gwangju 61186, South Korea.
| | - In-Sik Shin
- College of Veterinary Medicine and BK21 FOUR Program, Chonnam National University, 77 Yongbong-ro, Buk-gu, Gwangju 61186, South Korea.
| |
Collapse
|