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Cai Q, Zhao C, Xu Y, Lin H, Jia B, Huang B, Lin S, Chen D, Jia P, Wang M, Lin W, Zhang L, Chu J, Peng J. Qingda granule alleviates cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury by inhibiting TLR4/NF-κB/NLRP3 signaling in microglia. J Ethnopharmacol 2024; 324:117712. [PMID: 38184025 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2024.117712] [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: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 12/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 01/08/2024]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Qingda granule (QDG) is effective for treating hypertension and neuronal damage after cerebral ischemia/reperfusion. However, the anti-neuroinflammatory effect of QDG on injury due to cerebral ischemia/reperfusion is unclear. AIM OF THE STUDY The objective was to evaluate the effectiveness and action of QDG in treating neuroinflammation resulting from cerebral ischemia/reperfusion-induced injury. MATERIALS AND METHODS Network pharmacology was used to predict targets and pathways of QDG. An in vivo rat model of middle cerebral artery occlusion/reperfusion (MCAO/R) as well as an in vitro model of LPS-stimulated BV-2 cells were established. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was used to quantify the area of cerebral infarction, with morphological changes in the brain being assessed by histology. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) was used to assess levels of the microglial marker IBA-1 in brain tissue. Bioplex analysis was used to measure TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and MCP-1 in sera and in BV-2 cell culture supernatants. Simultaneously, mRNA levels of these factors were examined using RT-qPCR analysis. Proteins of the TLR4/NF-κB/NLRP3 axis were examined using IHC in vivo and Western blot in vitro, respectively. While NF-κB translocation was assessed using immunofluorescence. RESULTS The core targets of QDG included TNF, NF-κB1, MAPK1, MAPK3, JUN, and TLR4. QDG suppressed inflammation via modulation of TLR4/NF-κB signaling. In addition, our in vivo experiments using MCAO/R rats demonstrated the therapeutic effect of QDG in reducing brain tissue infarction, improving neurological function, and ameliorating cerebral histopathological damage. Furthermore, QDG reduced the levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and MCP-1 in both sera from MCAO/R rats and supernatants from LPS-induced BV-2 cells, along with a reduction in the expression of the microglia biomarker IBA-1, as well as that of TLR4, MyD88, p-IKK, p-IκBα, p-P65, and NLRP3 in MCAO/R rats. In LPS-treated BV-2 cells, QDG downregulated the expression of proinflammatory factors and TLR4/NF-κB/NLRP3 signaling-related proteins. Additionally, QDG reduced translocation of NF-κB to the nucleus in both brains of MCAO/R rats and LPS-induced BV-2 cells. Moreover, the combined treatment of the TLR4 inhibitor TAK242 and QDG significantly reduced the levels of p-P65, NLRP3, and IL-6. CONCLUSIONS QDG significantly suppressed neuroinflammation by inhibiting the TLR4/NF-κB/NLRP3 axis in microglia. This suggests potential for QDG in treating ischemia stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiaoyan Cai
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China; Fujian Collaborative Innovation Center for Integrative Medicine in Prevention and Treatment of Major Chronic Cardiovascular Diseases, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China.
| | - Chunyu Zhao
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China.
| | - Yaoyao Xu
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China.
| | - Haowei Lin
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China.
| | - Beibei Jia
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China.
| | - Bin Huang
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China.
| | - Shan Lin
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China.
| | - Daxin Chen
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China.
| | - Peizhi Jia
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China.
| | - Meiling Wang
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China.
| | - Wei Lin
- Innovation and Transformation Center, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China.
| | - Ling Zhang
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China; Fujian Collaborative Innovation Center for Integrative Medicine in Prevention and Treatment of Major Chronic Cardiovascular Diseases, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China.
| | - Jianfeng Chu
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China; Fujian Collaborative Innovation Center for Integrative Medicine in Prevention and Treatment of Major Chronic Cardiovascular Diseases, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China.
| | - Jun Peng
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China; Fujian Collaborative Innovation Center for Integrative Medicine in Prevention and Treatment of Major Chronic Cardiovascular Diseases, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China.
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Qu H, Shen AL, Yang K, Huang MY, Li HZ, Yang WW, Fan SY, Tan L, Wang J, Peng YX, Chu JF, Peng J, Fu CG, Long LZ, Chen KJ. Efficacy and safety of Qingda granule versus valsartan capsule in Chinese grade 1 hypertensive patients with low-moderate risk: A randomized, double-blind, double dummy, non-inferiority, multi-center trial. Pharmacol Res 2024; 200:107052. [PMID: 38181857 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2023.107052] [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] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/31/2023] [Indexed: 01/07/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The efficacy and safety of Qingda granule (QDG) in managing blood pressure (BP) among grade 1 hypertensive patients with low-moderate risk remain uncertain. METHODS In the randomized, double-blind, double dummy, non-inferiority and multicenter trial, 552 patients with grade 1 hypertension at low-moderate risk were assigned at a ratio of 1:1 to receive either QDG or valsartan for 4 weeks, followed up by a subsequent 4 weeks. RESULTS Post-treatment, clinic systolic/diastolic BPs (SBP/DBP) were reduced by a mean change of 9.18/4.04 mm Hg in the QDG group and 9.85/5.05 mm Hg in the valsartan group (SBP P = 0.47, DBP P = 0.16). Similarly, 24-hour, daytime and nighttime BPs were proportional in both groups (P > 0.05) after 4 weeks treatment. After discontinuing medications for 4 weeks, the mean reduction of clinic SBP/DBP were 0.29/0.57 mm Hg in the QDG group compared to -1.59/-0.48 mm Hg in the valsartan group (SBP P = 0.04, DBP P = 0.04). Simultaneously, the 24-hour SBP/DBP were reduced by 0.9/0.31 mm Hg in the QDG group and -1.66/-1.08 mm Hg in the valsartan group (SBP P = 0.006, DBP P = 0.02). And similar results were observed regarding the outcomes of daytime and nighttime BPs. There was no difference in occurrence of adverse events between two groups (P > 0.05). CONCLUSION QDG proves to be efficacious for grade 1 hypertension at a low-to-medium risk, even after discontinuation of the medication for 4 weeks. These findings provide a promising option for managing grade 1 hypertension and suggest the potential for maintaining stable BP through intermittent administration of QDG. TRIAL REGISTRATION ChiCTR2000033890.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hua Qu
- Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, China; National Cardiovascular Clinical Medical Research Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China
| | - A-Ling Shen
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China
| | - Kuo Yang
- Beijing Jiaotong University, China
| | - Ming-Yan Huang
- Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, China; National Cardiovascular Clinical Medical Research Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China
| | - Hong-Zheng Li
- Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, China
| | - Wen-Wen Yang
- Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, China
| | | | - Ling Tan
- The Eighth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, China
| | - Jie Wang
- Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, China
| | - Yu-Xuan Peng
- Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, China
| | - Jian-Feng Chu
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China
| | - Jun Peng
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China
| | - Chang-Geng Fu
- Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, China; National Cardiovascular Clinical Medical Research Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China.
| | - Lin-Zi Long
- Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, China.
| | - Ke-Ji Chen
- Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, China; National Cardiovascular Clinical Medical Research Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China
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Wu M, Zhang S, Zhang W, Zhou Y, Guo Z, Fang Y, Yang Y, Shen Z, Lian D, Shen A, Peng J. Qingda granule ameliorates vascular remodeling and phenotypic transformation of adventitial fibroblasts via suppressing the TGF-β1/Smad2/3 pathway. J Ethnopharmacol 2023; 313:116535. [PMID: 37100260 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.116535] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2023] [Revised: 04/08/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Qingda granule (QDG) exhibits significant therapeutic effects on high blood pressure, vascular dysfunction, and elevated proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells by inhibiting multiple pathways. However, the effects and underlying mechanisms of QDG treatment on hypertensive vascular remodeling are unclear. AIM OF THE STUDY The aim of this study was to determine the role of QDG treatment in hypertensive vascular remodeling in vivo and in vitro. MATERIALS AND METHODS An ACQUITY UPLC I-Class system coupled with a Xevo XS quadrupole time of flight mass spectrometer was used to characterize the chemical components of QDG. Twenty-five spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) were randomly divided into five groups, including SHR (equal volume of double distilled water, ddH2O), SHR + QDG-L (0.45 g/kg/day), SHR + QDG-M (0.9 g/kg/day), SHR + QDG-H (1.8 g/kg/day), and SHR + Valsartan (7.2 mg/kg/day) groups. QDG, Valsartan, and ddH2O were administered intragastrically once a day for 10 weeks. For the control group, ddH2O was intragastrically administered to five Wistar Kyoto rats (WKY group). Vascular function, pathological changes, and collagen deposition in the abdominal aorta were evaluated using animal ultrasound, hematoxylin and eosin and Masson staining, and immunohistochemistry. Isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantification (iTRAQ) was performed to identify differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) in the abdominal aorta, and Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analyses were performed. Cell Counting Kit-8 assays, phalloidin staining, transwell assays, and western-blotting were performed to explore the underlying mechanisms in primary isolated adventitial fibroblasts (AFs) stimulated with transforming growth factor-β 1 (TGF-β1) with or without QDG treatment. RESULTS Twelve compounds were identified from the total ion chromatogram fingerprint of QDG. In the SHR group, QDG treatment significantly attenuated the increased pulse wave velocity, aortic wall thickening, and abdominal aorta pathological changes and decreased Collagen I, Collagen III, and Fibronectin expression. The iTRAQ analysis identified 306 DEPs between SHR and WKY and 147 DEPs between QDG and SHR. GO and KEGG pathway analyses of the DEPs identified multiple pathways and functional processes involving vascular remodeling, including the TGF-β receptor signaling pathway. QDG treatment significantly attenuated the increased cell migration, actin cytoskeleton remodeling, and Collagen I, Collagen III, and Fibronectin expression in AFs stimulated with TGF-β1. QDG treatment significantly decreased TGF-β1 protein expression in abdominal aortic tissues in the SHR group and p-Smad2 and p-Smad3 protein expression in TGF-β1-stimulated AFs. CONCLUSIONS QDG treatment attenuated hypertension-induced vascular remodeling of the abdominal aorta and phenotypic transformation of adventitial fibroblasts, at least partly by suppressing TGF-β1/Smad2/3 signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meizhu Wu
- Clinical Research Institute, The Second Affiliated Hospital & Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Collaborative Innovation Center for Integrative Medicine in Prevention and Treatment of Major Chronic Cardiovascular Diseases, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China
| | - Siyu Zhang
- Clinical Research Institute, The Second Affiliated Hospital & Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Collaborative Innovation Center for Integrative Medicine in Prevention and Treatment of Major Chronic Cardiovascular Diseases, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China
| | - Wenqiang Zhang
- Clinical Research Institute, The Second Affiliated Hospital & Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Collaborative Innovation Center for Integrative Medicine in Prevention and Treatment of Major Chronic Cardiovascular Diseases, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China
| | - Yuting Zhou
- Clinical Research Institute, The Second Affiliated Hospital & Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Collaborative Innovation Center for Integrative Medicine in Prevention and Treatment of Major Chronic Cardiovascular Diseases, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China
| | - Zhi Guo
- Clinical Research Institute, The Second Affiliated Hospital & Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Collaborative Innovation Center for Integrative Medicine in Prevention and Treatment of Major Chronic Cardiovascular Diseases, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China
| | - Yi Fang
- Clinical Research Institute, The Second Affiliated Hospital & Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Collaborative Innovation Center for Integrative Medicine in Prevention and Treatment of Major Chronic Cardiovascular Diseases, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China
| | - Yanyan Yang
- Clinical Research Institute, The Second Affiliated Hospital & Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Collaborative Innovation Center for Integrative Medicine in Prevention and Treatment of Major Chronic Cardiovascular Diseases, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Innovation and Transformation Center, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China
| | - Zhiqing Shen
- Clinical Research Institute, The Second Affiliated Hospital & Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Collaborative Innovation Center for Integrative Medicine in Prevention and Treatment of Major Chronic Cardiovascular Diseases, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China
| | - Dawei Lian
- Clinical Research Institute, The Second Affiliated Hospital & Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Collaborative Innovation Center for Integrative Medicine in Prevention and Treatment of Major Chronic Cardiovascular Diseases, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China
| | - Aling Shen
- Clinical Research Institute, The Second Affiliated Hospital & Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Collaborative Innovation Center for Integrative Medicine in Prevention and Treatment of Major Chronic Cardiovascular Diseases, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Innovation and Transformation Center, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China.
| | - Jun Peng
- Clinical Research Institute, The Second Affiliated Hospital & Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Collaborative Innovation Center for Integrative Medicine in Prevention and Treatment of Major Chronic Cardiovascular Diseases, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China.
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Long LZ, Chu JF, Qu H, Yang QN, Lu Y, Fu CG, Peng J, Chen KJ. Effects of Qingda granule on patients with grade 1 hypertension at low-medium risk: study protocol for a randomized, controlled, double-blind clinical trial. Trials 2023; 24:1. [PMID: 36588157 PMCID: PMC9806902 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-022-07006-0] [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: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Numerous pre-clinical studies showed that Qingda granule (QDG) was effective in treating hypertension. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of QDG in reducing blood pressure among patients with grade 1 hypertension at low-medium risk. METHODS The study is designed as a randomized, multi-center, double-blinded, non-inferiority clinical trial. Five hundred fifty-two patients with grade 1 hypertension at low-medium risk from 13 hospitals will be recruited and randomly assigned to the QDG group (n = 276, treated with valsartan capsule simulation agent and QDG) or control group (n = 276, treated with valsartan capsule and QDG simulation agent). The treatment period will be 4 weeks and the follow-up period will last 4 weeks after treatment. Primary outcome will be a decreased value of systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure after treatment. And second outcome will include the decreased value of diastolic blood pressure and systolic blood pressure at the end of follow-up, the percentage of participants achieving normal blood pressure at the end of treatment and follow-up, the Hamilton Anxiety Scale and TCM syndrome scores at the end of treatment and follow-up, and levels of hypertensive hormones at end of treatment and follow-up. DISCUSSION This study will provide initial evidence regarding the clinical efficacy and safety of QDG in treating grade 1 hypertension at low-medium risk. TRIAL REGISTRATION Chinese Clinical Trial Registry ChiCTR2000033890 . Registered on 15 June 2020.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin-zi Long
- grid.411504.50000 0004 1790 1622Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, 350112 China ,grid.410318.f0000 0004 0632 3409Department of Geriatrics, Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100091 China
| | - Jian-feng Chu
- grid.411504.50000 0004 1790 1622Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, 350112 China ,grid.411504.50000 0004 1790 1622Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fu Zhou, China ,grid.411504.50000 0004 1790 1622 Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fu Zhou, China
| | - Hua Qu
- grid.410318.f0000 0004 0632 3409National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Cardiology, Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China ,grid.410318.f0000 0004 0632 3409Department of Cardiovascular Disease Center, Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100091 China
| | - Qiao-ning Yang
- grid.410318.f0000 0004 0632 3409National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Cardiology, Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China ,grid.410318.f0000 0004 0632 3409Department of Cardiovascular Disease Center, Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100091 China
| | - Yan Lu
- grid.411504.50000 0004 1790 1622Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, 350112 China
| | - Chang-geng Fu
- grid.410318.f0000 0004 0632 3409National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Cardiology, Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China ,grid.410318.f0000 0004 0632 3409Department of Cardiovascular Disease Center, Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100091 China
| | - Jun Peng
- grid.411504.50000 0004 1790 1622Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, 350112 China
| | - Ke-ji Chen
- grid.410318.f0000 0004 0632 3409National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Cardiology, Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China ,grid.410318.f0000 0004 0632 3409Department of Cardiovascular Disease Center, Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100091 China
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Gao Q, Ma E, Chen J, Zhao Q, He J, Peng J, Zhu W, Ren DN, Wo D. Qingda granule prevents obesity-induced hypertension and cardiac dysfunction by inhibiting adverse Akt signaling activation. Heliyon 2022; 8:e12099. [PMID: 36578425 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2022.e12099] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Revised: 10/29/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Obesity rates have rapidly increased worldwide and obesity-related diseases such as hypertension and cardiovascular diseases have become leading factors for global morbidity and mortality. Currently, there are no effective treatments that can prevent or reverse obesity long-term, and hence the prevention of obesity-related adverse effects such as hypertension is critical. Qingda granule (QDG) is a condensed Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) formula that has been used clinically for treating hypertension, however, its effectiveness in obesity-induced hypertension and cardiac dysfunction remains explored. Mouse models of obesity via long-term feeding of high-fat high-fructose diet (HFFD) were established to examine the effect and mechanism of QDG in protecting against obesity-induced hypertension and cardiac dysfunction. C57BL/6 mice were fed with either normal diet or HFFD over a period of 16 weeks and administered with either saline or QDG for assessment of obesity-induced blood pressure and cardiac function. QDG administration demonstrated robust anti-hypertensive effects and significantly attenuated HFFD-induced elevations in blood pressures. Moreover, QDG treatment also demonstrated robust cardioprotective effects during obesity-induced hypertension by markedly improving cardiac function and preventing cardiac hypertrophy. QDG protected against obesity-induced hypertension and cardiac dysfunction was due to its ability to prevent adverse chronic activation of Akt signaling pathway during long-term feeding of HFFD. Long-term usage of QDG treatments exhibited no observable side effects and also completely prevented obesity-induced organ damage, demonstrating the feasibility and safety of prolonged use. Our findings thus elucidated the role of QDG in preventing obesity-induced hypertension and cardiac hypertrophy via inhibiting adverse activation of Akt signaling activation. Therefore, our study provides the theoretical basis for the utilization of QDG as both a safe and effective drug in the therapeutic treatment of metabolic diseases such as obesity-induced hypertension.
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Long L, Zhang X, Wen Y, Li J, Wei L, Cheng Y, Liu H, Chu J, Fang Y, Xie Q, Shen A, Peng J. Qingda Granule Attenuates Angiotensin II-Induced Renal Apoptosis and Activation of the p53 Pathway. Front Pharmacol 2022; 12:770863. [PMID: 35222007 PMCID: PMC8867011 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.770863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [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: 09/05/2021] [Accepted: 12/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Qingda granules (QDG) exhibit antihypertension and multiple-target-organ protection. However, the therapeutic potential of QDG on hypertensive renal injury remains unknown. Therefore, the main objective of the current study is to explore the effects and underlying mechanisms of QDG treatment on renal injury in angiotensin (Ang) II-infused mice. Methods and results: Mice were infused with Ang II (500 ng/kg/min) or saline for 4 weeks with subcutaneously implanted osmotic pumps. After infusion, mice in the Ang II + QDG group were intragastrically administrated with QDG daily (1.145 g/kg/day), whereas the control group and Ang II group were intragastrically administrated with the same amount of double-distilled water. Blood pressure of the mice monitored using the CODA™ noninvasive blood pressure system revealed that QDG treatment significantly attenuated elevated blood pressure. Moreover, hematoxylin-eosin staining indicated that QDG treatment ameliorated Ang II-induced renal morphological changes, including glomerular sclerosis and atrophy, epithelial cell atrophy, and tubular dilatation. RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq) identified 662 differentially expressed transcripts (DETs) in renal tissues of Ang II-infused mice, which were reversed after QDG treatment. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis based on DETs in both comparisons of Ang II vs. Control and Ang II + QDG vs. Ang II identified multiple enriched pathways, including apoptosis and p53 pathways. Consistently, terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase (TdT) dUTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL) staining and Annexin V staining revealed that QDG treatment significantly attenuated Ang II-induced cell apoptosis in renal tissues and cultured renal tubular epithelial cell lines (NRK-52E). Furthermore, western blot analysis indicated that Ang II infusion significantly upregulated the protein expression of p53, BCL2-associated X (BAX), cle-caspase-9, and cle-caspase-3, while downregulating the protein expression of BCL-2 in renal tissues, which were attenuated after QDG treatment. Conclusion: Collectively, QDG treatment significantly attenuated hypertensive renal injury, partially by attenuating renal apoptosis and suppressing p53 pathways, which might be the underlying mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linzi Long
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fuzhou, China.,Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fuzhou, China.,Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fuzhou, China
| | - Xiuli Zhang
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fuzhou, China.,Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fuzhou, China
| | - Ying Wen
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fuzhou, China.,Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fuzhou, China
| | - Jiapeng Li
- Department of Physical Education, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, China
| | - Lihui Wei
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fuzhou, China.,Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fuzhou, China.,Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fuzhou, China
| | - Ying Cheng
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fuzhou, China.,Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fuzhou, China
| | - Huixin Liu
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fuzhou, China.,Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fuzhou, China
| | - Jianfeng Chu
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fuzhou, China.,Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fuzhou, China.,Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fuzhou, China
| | - Yi Fang
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fuzhou, China.,Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fuzhou, China.,Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fuzhou, China
| | - Qiurong Xie
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fuzhou, China.,Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fuzhou, China.,Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fuzhou, China
| | - Aling Shen
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fuzhou, China.,Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fuzhou, China.,Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fuzhou, China
| | - Jun Peng
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fuzhou, China.,Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fuzhou, China.,Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fuzhou, China
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7
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Wu M, Wu X, Cheng Y, Shen Z, Chen X, Xie Q, Chu J, Li J, Liu L, Wei L, Long L, Cai Q, Peng J, Shen A. Qingda Granule Attenuates Angiotensin II-Induced Blood Pressure and Inhibits Ca 2+/ERK Signaling Pathway. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:688877. [PMID: 34393778 PMCID: PMC8358933 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.688877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [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: 03/31/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: As a well-known traditional Chinese medicine formula prescribed by academician Ke-ji Chen, Qingda granule (QDG) lowered the blood pressure of spontaneously hypertensive rats and attenuated hypertensive cardiac remodeling and inflammation. However, its functional role and underlying mechanisms on hypertensive vascular function remain largely unclear. This study aims to assess the effects of QDG treatment on Angiotensin II- (AngII-) induced hypertension and vascular function and explore its underlying mechanisms both in vitro and in vivo. Methods: In an in vivo study, 25 male C57BL/6 mice were randomly divided into five groups, including Control, AngII, AngII + QDG-L, AngII + QDG-M, and AngII + QDG-H groups (n = 5 for each group). Mice in AngII and AngII + QDG-L/-M/-H groups were infused with AngII (500 ng/kg/min), while in the Control group, they were infused with saline. Mice in AngII + QDG were intragastrically given different concentrations of QDG (0.5725, 1.145, or 2.29 g/kg/day), while in Control and AngII groups, they were intragastrically given equal volumes of double distilled water for 2 weeks. Blood pressure was determined at 0, 1, and 2 weeks of treatment. Ultrasound was used to detect the pulse wave velocity (PWV) and HE staining to detect the pathological change of the abdominal aorta. RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) was performed to identify the differentially expressed transcripts (DETs) and related signaling pathways. IHC was used to detect the expression of p-ERK in the abdominal aorta. Primary isolated rat vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) were used to assess the cellular Ca2+ release and activation of the ERK pathway by confocal microscope and western blotting analysis, respectively. Results: QDG treatment significantly alleviated the elevated blood pressure, the PWV, and the thickness of the abdominal aorta in AngII-induced hypertensive mice. RNA-seq and KEGG analyses identified 1,505 DETs and multiple enriched pathways (including vascular contraction and calcium signaling pathway) after QDG treatment. Furthermore, confocal microscope showed that QDG treatment partially attenuated the increase of Ca2+ release with the stimulation of AngII in cultured VSMCs. In addition, IHC and western blotting indicated that QDG treatment also partially alleviated the increase of phospho-ERK levels in abdominal aorta tissues of mice and cultured VSMCs after the infusion or stimulation of AngII. Conclusion: QDG treatment attenuated the elevation of blood pressure, abdominal aorta dysfunction, pathological changes, Ca2+ release, and activation of the ERK signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meizhu Wu
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fuzhou, China.,Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fuzhou, China.,Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, China
| | - Xiangyan Wu
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fuzhou, China.,Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fuzhou, China.,Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, China
| | - Ying Cheng
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fuzhou, China.,Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fuzhou, China.,Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, China
| | - Zhiqing Shen
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fuzhou, China.,Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fuzhou, China.,Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, China
| | - Xiaoping Chen
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fuzhou, China.,Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fuzhou, China.,Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, China
| | - Qiurong Xie
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fuzhou, China.,Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fuzhou, China.,Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, China
| | - Jianfeng Chu
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fuzhou, China.,Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fuzhou, China.,Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, China
| | - Jiapeng Li
- Department of Physical Education, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, China
| | - Liya Liu
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fuzhou, China.,Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fuzhou, China.,Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, China
| | - Lihui Wei
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fuzhou, China.,Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fuzhou, China.,Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, China
| | - Linzi Long
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fuzhou, China.,Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fuzhou, China.,Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, China.,Department of Geriatrics, Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Qiaoyan Cai
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fuzhou, China.,Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fuzhou, China.,Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, China
| | - Jun Peng
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fuzhou, China.,Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fuzhou, China.,Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, China
| | - Aling Shen
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fuzhou, China.,Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fuzhou, China.,Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, China
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8
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Chen X, Long L, Cheng Y, Chu J, Shen Z, Liu L, Li J, Xie Q, Liu H, Wu M, Chen Y, Peng J, Shen A. Qingda granule attenuates cardiac fibrosis via suppression of the TGF-β1/Smad2/3 signaling pathway in vitro and in vivo. Biomed Pharmacother 2021; 137:111318. [PMID: 33556875 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2021.111318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [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: 11/17/2020] [Revised: 01/15/2021] [Accepted: 01/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Cardiac fibrosis plays an important role in hypertension-related contractile dysfunction and heart failure. Qingda granule (QDG), derived from the Qingxuan Jiangya decoction, has been used clinically for more than 60 years to treat hypertension. However, the effect of QDG on hypertensive cardiac fibrosis remains largely unknown. The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of QDG on cardiac fibrosis and explore the underlying mechanism in vivo and in vitro. For in vivo experiments, 30 male spontaneously hypertensive rats were randomly divided into groups that received no QDG or one of three doses (0.45, 0.9 or 1.8 g/kg/day). Positive-control animals received valsartan (VAL, 7.2 mg/kg/day). Treatments were administered by gavage for 10 weeks. All three doses of QDG and VAL led to significantly lower blood pressure than in SHR animals. Besides, all three doses of QDG and VAL attenuated pathological changes in SHR animals. However, only intermediate, high concentrations of QDG and VAL led to significantly lower left ventricle ejection fraction and left ventricle fractional shortening than in SHR animals. Therefore, the minimum and effective QDG dose (intermediate concentration of QDG) was selected for subsequent animal experiments in this study. Our results showed that intermediate concentration of QDG also significantly mitigated the increases in levels of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), collagen III, transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) and in the ratio of phospho-Smad2/3 to total Smad2/3 protein in cardiac tissue, based on immunohistochemistry, Western blotting, and Masson staining. For in vitro experiments, primary cardiac fibroblasts were stimulated with 100 nM angiotensin II in the presence or absence of QDG. And we tested different concentrations of QDG (3.125, 6.25, 12.5, 25, 50 μg/mL) in the cell viability experiment. Our results showed that 3.125, 6.25 and 12.5 μg/mL of QDG treatment for 24 h didn't affect the cell viability of cardiac fibroblasts. Consistently, QDG at 6.25 or 12.5 μg/mL significantly reduced cell viability and down-regulated α-SMA in primary cardiac fibroblasts were stimulated with 100 nM angiotensin II. Therefore, QDG at 12.5 μg/mL was chosen for the following cell experiment. Our results showed that QDG at 12.5 μg/mL alleviated the increase of PCNA, collagen Ⅲ, TGF-β1 expression, and the ratio of phospho-Smad2/3 to total Smad2/3 protein. Our studies in vitro and in vivo suggest that QDG reduces blood pressure and cardiac fibrosis as well as protecting cardiac function, and that it exerts these effects in part by suppressing TGF-β1/Smad2/3 signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoping Chen
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China
| | - Linzi Long
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Department of Geriatrics, Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100091, China
| | - Ying Cheng
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China
| | - Jianfeng Chu
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China
| | - Zhiqing Shen
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China
| | - Liya Liu
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China
| | - Jiapeng Li
- Department of Physical Education, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China
| | - Qiurong Xie
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China
| | - Huixin Liu
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China
| | - Meizhu Wu
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China
| | - Youqin Chen
- Department of Pediatrics, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Rainbow Babies and Children's Hospital, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
| | - Jun Peng
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China.
| | - Aling Shen
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China.
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9
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Zhang L, Cai Q, Lin S, Chen B, Jia B, Ye R, Weygant N, Chu J, Peng J. Qingda granule exerts neuroprotective effects against ischemia/reperfusion-induced cerebral injury via lncRNA GAS5/miR-137 signaling pathway. Int J Med Sci 2021; 18:1687-1698. [PMID: 33746585 PMCID: PMC7976574 DOI: 10.7150/ijms.53603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2020] [Accepted: 01/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Ischemic stroke is the second leading cause of death and disability worldwide, which needs to develop new pharmaceuticals for its prevention and treatment. Qingda granule (QDG), a traditional Chinese medicine formulation, could improve angiotensin II-induced brain injury and decrease systemic inflammation. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the neuroprotective effect of QDG against ischemia/reperfusion-induced cerebral injury and illustrate the potential mechanisms. Methods: The middle cerebral artery occlusion/reperfusion (MCAO/R) surgery in vivo and oxygen-glucose deprivation/reoxygenation (OGD/R) in vitro models were established. Ischemic infarct volume was quantified using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Neurobehavioral deficits were assessed using a five-point scale. Cerebral histopathology was determined by hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining. Neuronal apoptosis was evaluated by TUNEL and immunostaining with NeuN antibodies. The protective effect of QDG on OGD/R-injured HT22 cells was determined by MTT assay and Hoechst 33258 staining. The expression of lncRNA GAS5, miR-137 and apoptosis-related proteins were investigated in MCAO/R-injured rats and in OGD/R-injured HT22 cells using RT-qPCR and western blot analysis. Results: QDG significantly reduced the ischemic infarct volume, which was accompanied with improvements in neurobehavioral deficits. Additionally, QDG significantly ameliorated cerebral histopathological changes and reduced neuron loss in MCAO/R-injured rats. Moreover, QDG improved growth and inhibited apoptosis of HT22 cells injured by OGD/R in vitro. Finally, QDG significantly decreased the expression of lncRNA GAS5, Bax and cleaved caspase3, whereas it increased miR-137 and Bcl-2 expression in MCAO/R-injured rats and in OGD/R-injured HT22 cells. Conclusion: QDG plays a neuroprotective role in ischemic stroke via regulation of the lncRNA GAS5/miR-137 signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling Zhang
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 1 Qiuyang Road, Minhou Shangjie, Fuzhou 350122, China.,Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 1 Qiuyang Road, Minhou Shangjie, Fuzhou 350122, China.,Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 1 Qiuyang Road, Minhou Shangjie, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China
| | - Qiaoyan Cai
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 1 Qiuyang Road, Minhou Shangjie, Fuzhou 350122, China.,Fujian Key Laboratory of Rehabilitation Technology, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Qiuyang Road, Minhou Shangjie, Fuzhou, China.,Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 1 Qiuyang Road, Minhou Shangjie, Fuzhou 350122, China.,Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 1 Qiuyang Road, Minhou Shangjie, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China
| | - Shan Lin
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 1 Qiuyang Road, Minhou Shangjie, Fuzhou 350122, China.,Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 1 Qiuyang Road, Minhou Shangjie, Fuzhou 350122, China.,Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 1 Qiuyang Road, Minhou Shangjie, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China
| | - Bin Chen
- People's Hospital of Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No.602, 817 Middle Road, Fuzhou 350004, China
| | - Beibei Jia
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 1 Qiuyang Road, Minhou Shangjie, Fuzhou 350122, China.,The Higher Educational Key Laboratory for Integrative Medicine of Fujian Province, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 1 Qiuyang Road, Minhou Shangjie, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China
| | - Renzhi Ye
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 1 Qiuyang Road, Minhou Shangjie, Fuzhou 350122, China.,The Higher Educational Key Laboratory for Integrative Medicine of Fujian Province, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 1 Qiuyang Road, Minhou Shangjie, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China
| | - Nathaniel Weygant
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 1 Qiuyang Road, Minhou Shangjie, Fuzhou 350122, China.,Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 1 Qiuyang Road, Minhou Shangjie, Fuzhou 350122, China
| | - Jianfeng Chu
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 1 Qiuyang Road, Minhou Shangjie, Fuzhou 350122, China.,Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 1 Qiuyang Road, Minhou Shangjie, Fuzhou 350122, China.,Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 1 Qiuyang Road, Minhou Shangjie, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China
| | - Jun Peng
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 1 Qiuyang Road, Minhou Shangjie, Fuzhou 350122, China.,Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 1 Qiuyang Road, Minhou Shangjie, Fuzhou 350122, China.,Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 1 Qiuyang Road, Minhou Shangjie, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China
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10
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Cheng Y, Shen A, Wu X, Shen Z, Chen X, Li J, Liu L, Lin X, Wu M, Chen Y, Chu J, Peng J. Qingda granule attenuates angiotensin II-induced cardiac hypertrophy and apoptosis and modulates the PI3K/AKT pathway. Biomed Pharmacother 2021; 133:111022. [PMID: 33378940 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2020.111022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2020] [Revised: 11/11/2020] [Accepted: 11/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Qingda granule (QDG), simplified from Qingxuan Jiangya Decoction, is a well-known traditional Chinese medicine formula that has been used for decades to treat hypertension. However, the cardioprotective effects of QDG on Ang II-induced hypertension remain unknown. This study aimed to investigate the effects of QDG on hypertension-induced cardiac hypertrophy and apoptosis, as well as explore its underlying mechanisms. Mice were infused with Ang II (500 ng/kg/min) or saline solution as control, then administered oral QDG (1.145 g/kg/day) or saline for two weeks. QDG treatment attenuated the elevation in blood pressure caused by Ang II, as well as the decreased left ventricle ejection fractions and fractional shortening. Moreover, QDG treatment significantly alleviated the Ang II-induced elevation of the ratio of heart weight to tibia length, as well as cardiac injury, hypertrophy, and apoptosis. In cultured H9C2 cells stimulated with Ang II, QDG partially reversed the increase in cell surface area and number of apoptotic cells, up-regulation of hypertrophy markers ANP and BNP, and activation of caspases-9 and -3. QDG also partially reversed Ang II-induced accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), depolarization of the mitochondrial membrane, release of cytochrome C, up-regulation of Bax, and decrease in levels of p-PI3K, p-AKT, and Bcl-2. These results suggest that QDG can significantly attenuate Ang II-induced hypertension, cardiac hypertrophy and apoptosis, and it may exert these effects in part by suppressing ROS production and activating the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway.
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MESH Headings
- Angiotensin II
- Animals
- Apoptosis/drug effects
- Blood Pressure/drug effects
- Cell Line
- Disease Models, Animal
- Drugs, Chinese Herbal/pharmacology
- Gene Expression Regulation
- Gene Regulatory Networks
- Hypertension/chemically induced
- Hypertension/enzymology
- Hypertension/physiopathology
- Hypertension/prevention & control
- Hypertrophy, Left Ventricular/chemically induced
- Hypertrophy, Left Ventricular/enzymology
- Hypertrophy, Left Ventricular/pathology
- Hypertrophy, Left Ventricular/prevention & control
- Male
- Mice, Inbred C57BL
- Myocytes, Cardiac/drug effects
- Myocytes, Cardiac/enzymology
- Myocytes, Cardiac/pathology
- Phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinase/metabolism
- Phosphorylation
- Proto-Oncogene Proteins c-akt/metabolism
- Rats
- Reactive Oxygen Species/metabolism
- Signal Transduction
- Mice
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Cheng
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China.
| | - Aling Shen
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China.
| | - Xiangyan Wu
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China.
| | - Zhiqing Shen
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China.
| | - Xiaoping Chen
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China.
| | - Jiapeng Li
- Department of Physical Education, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China.
| | - Liya Liu
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China.
| | - Xiaoying Lin
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China.
| | - Meizhu Wu
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China.
| | - Youqin Chen
- Department of Pediatrics, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Rainbow Babies and Children's Hospital, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA.
| | - Jianfeng Chu
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China.
| | - Jun Peng
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China.
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11
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Yu N, Shen A, Chu J, Huang Y, Zhang L, Lin S, Cai Q, Sankararaman S, Sferra TJ, Chen Y, Peng J. Qingda granule inhibits angiotensin Ⅱ induced VSMCs proliferation through MAPK and PI3K/AKT pathways. J Ethnopharmacol 2020; 258:112767. [PMID: 32199989 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2020.112767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [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: 02/24/2019] [Revised: 03/01/2020] [Accepted: 03/12/2020] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE The abnormal increase in vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) proliferation is widely accepted as the pivotal process in the vascular remodeling of hypertension. Qingda granule (QDG) is simplified from Qingxuan Jiangya Decoction (QXJYD) which has been in usage for a long time as a traditional Chinese medicine formula to treat hypertension based on the theory of traditional Chinese medicine. However, its underlying molecular mechanisms of action remain largely unknown. AIM OF STUDY To investigate the therapeutic efficacy of QDG in the attenuation of elevation of blood pressure and proliferation of VSMCs in vivo and in vitro and explore its possible mechanism of action. MATERIALS AND METHODS In vivo, we established an angiotensin Ⅱ (Ang Ⅱ)-mediated hypertension model in C57BL/6 mice and orally administered 1.145 g/kg/day of QDG. The systolic and diastolic blood pressures of all mice were measured at the end of the treatment by using the tail-cuff plethysmograph method and CODA™ noninvasive blood pressure system. VSMC proliferation within the aorta was determined by immunohistochemistry. In vitro, primary rat VSMCs were cultured to further verify the effects of QDG on Ang Ⅱ induced VSMC proliferation. Cell proliferation was investigated using cell counting and MTT assays. The protein expression was determined by western blotting. RESULTS We found that oral administration of QDG significantly attenuated the elevation of blood pressure and proliferation of VSMCs in Ang Ⅱ-induced hypertensive mice. Moreover, QDG remarkably inhibited Ang Ⅱ-induced primary rat VSMCs proliferation and decreased mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and PI3K/AKT activity by attenuating the expression of phospho-extracellular signaling-regulated kinase 1/2, phospho-p38, phospho-c-Jun N-terminal kinase and phospho-protein kinase B. CONCLUSION Collectively, our findings suggest that QDG attenuates Ang Ⅱ-induced elevation of blood pressure and proliferation of VSMCs through a decrease in the activation of MAPK and PI3K/AKT pathways. Based on this study, we postulate this could be one of the mechanisms whereby QDG effectively controls hypertension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Yu
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China
| | - Aling Shen
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China
| | - Jianfeng Chu
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China
| | - Yue Huang
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China
| | - Ling Zhang
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China
| | - Shan Lin
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China
| | - Qiaoyan Cai
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China
| | - Senthilkumar Sankararaman
- Department of Pediatrics, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, UH Rainbow Babies and Children's Hospital, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
| | - Thomas J Sferra
- Department of Pediatrics, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, UH Rainbow Babies and Children's Hospital, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
| | - Youqin Chen
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Department of Pediatrics, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, UH Rainbow Babies and Children's Hospital, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA.
| | - Jun Peng
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China.
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