Effects of the combination of Epimedii Folium and Ligustri Lucidi Fructus on apoptosis and autophagy in SOP rats and osteoblasts via PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to investigate the effects of the combination of Epimedii Folium (EF) and Ligustri Lucidi Fructus (LLF) on regulating apoptosis and autophagy in senile osteoporosis (SOP) rats.

METHODS

Firstly, we identified the components in the decoction and drug-containing serum of EL (EF&LLF) by Ultra performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole-time of flight-mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q-TOF-MS). Secondly, SOP rats were treated with EF, LLF, EL and caltrate to evaluate the advantages of EL. Finally, H2O2-, chloroquine-, and MHY1485-induced osteoblasts were treated with different doses of EL to reveal the molecular mechanism of EL. We detected bone microstructure, oxidative stress levels, ALP activity and the expressions of Bax, Bcl-2, caspase3, P53, Beclin-1, p-PI3K, PI3K, p-Akt, Akt, p-mTOR, mTOR, and LC3 in vivo and in vitro.

RESULTS

36 compounds in EL decoction and 23 in EL-containing serum were identified, including flavonoids, iridoid terpenoids, phenylethanoid glycosides, polyols and triterpenoids. EL could inhibit apoptosis activity and increase ALP activity. In SOP rats and chloroquine-inhibited osteoblasts, EL could improve bone tissue microstructure and osteoblasts functions by upregulating Bcl-2, Beclin1, and LC3-II/LC3-I, while downregulating p53 in all treatment groups. In H2O2-induced osteoblasts, EL could upregulate the protein and mRNA expressions of Bcl-2 while downregulate LC3-II/LC3-I, p53 and Beclin1. Besides, EL was able to down-regulate PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway which activated in SOP rats and MHY1485-induced osteoblasts.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings demonstrate that EL with bone protective effects on SOP rats by regulating autophagy and apoptosis via PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway, which might be an alternative medicine for the treatment of SOP.

Comment on the "Eco-friendly and efficient extraction of polyphenols from Ligustrum robustum by deep eutectic solvent assisted ultrasound"

Qin et al. have proposed an ecological and efficient method of extraction polyphenols from the leaves of Ligustrum robustum using eutectic solvents, assisted by ultrasounds. The authors tested a number of solvents, optimized the extraction parameters and explored the extraction mechanism. According to the results of biological activity experiments of the prepared Ligustrum robustum leaves extracts, they seem promising for practical applications. The issue which is disputable is the identification of the phenolic compounds by using electrospray ionization mass spectrometry, as described in details in this comment.

Exploring the boost of steaming with wine on Ligustri Lucidi Fructus in treating postmenopausal osteoporosis based on superior "multi-component structure" and iron/bone metabolism coregulation

BACKGROUND

Clinical studies indicated that postmenopausal osteoporosis (PMOP) often accompanied by iron overload risk factor, which exacerbated bone metabolism disorders and accelerated PMOP. Previous research found that multicomponent in Ligustri Lucidi Fructus (FLL) or wine-steamed FLL (WFLL) acted on the common targets of iron overload and PMOP simultaneously, which indicated that FLL and WFLL probably regulated iron/bone metabolism dually. Additionally, WFLL had more superior effect according to the theory of Chinese medicine for thousands of years.

PURPOSE

To reveal the "superior multi-component structure (SMCS)" and its molecular mechanisms in parallelly down-regulating iron overload and rescuing bone metabolism by WFLL.

DESIGNS AND METHODS

HPLC fingerprinting was established to compare the chemical profiles of FLL and WFLL; Then, the chemical compositions and quality markers of FLL and WFLL were analyzed by UPLC-Orbitrap-MS/MS coupled with OPLS-DA; the dynamic contents of quality markers and the multi-component structure at different wine steaming times (WST) were simultaneously determined by HPLC-DAD. Meanwhile, the dynamic efficacy of FLL at different WST were hunt by systematic zebrafish model. Subsequently, potential mechanism of WFLL in treating PMOP accompanied with iron overload was obtained from network pharmacology (NP) and molecular docking (MD). Finally, zebrafish and ovariectomy rat model were carried out to validate this potential mechanism.

RESULTS

HPLC fingerprints similarity of 15 batches in FLL and WFLL were among 0.9-1.0. 126 compositions were identified, including 58 iridoids, 25 terpenes, 30 phenylethanoids, 7 flavonoids and 6 others. 20 quality markers associated with WFLL was revealed, and the ratio of phenylethanols: Iridoids: Triterpenes (P/I/T) was converted from 1: 15: 4.5 to 1: 0.8: 0.9 during steaming (0 - 24 h) calculated by the quantification of 11 quality markers; the bone mineralization and motor performance of zebrafish larvae indicated that the optimum efficacy of WFLL at 12 h (p < 0.05) in which the SMCS of P/I/T was converted to 1: 4: 1.8. NP discovered that BMP-Smad pathway is one of the potential mechanisms of FLL in anti PMOP and then regulated bone formation and iron overload simultaneously. MD revealed that 17 active ingredients and 10 core targets genes could spontaneously bind with appropriate affinity. Rats model verified that FLL and WFLL significantly reversed PMOP, based on the improvement in bone formation indexes (ALP, OPG, OGN), iron metabolism indicators (hepcidin, ferritin), bone microstructure (BMD, BV/TV, Tb. Th, Tb. N); Moreover, WFLL significant enhanced reversal effect in anti-PMOP compared to FLL (p < 0.05). FLL and WFLL increased genes and proteins expression (Hep, BMP-6, p-Smad1/5, Smad4) related to BMP-Smad pathway compared with model group, and WFLL was more superior than FLL (p< 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The SMCS of FLL was optimized by wine-steam, WFLL represented a dual effect in downregulating iron overload and promoting bone formation, and the BMP-Smad pathway is one of the potential molecular mechanisms.

Secoiridoid glycosides from the fruits of Ligustrum lucidum and their in vitro anti-inflammatory activity

Seven new secoiridoid glycosides (1-7), together with a known analogue (8), were isolated from the fruits of Ligustrum lucidum. Their structures with absolute configurations were determined by HR-ESI-MS, 1D and 2D NMR, and electronic circular dichroism (ECD) spectroscopic analysis, as well as biogenetic consideration. Compounds 1 and 2 are the first examples of secoiridoid glycoside dimers featuring a rare rearranged oleoside-type secoiridoid moiety, and compounds 3-7 represent a new class of oleoside-type secoiridoid glycosides with unusual stereochemistry at C-1 position. A plausible biosynthetic pathway for this group of unusual secoiridoid glycosides was also proposed herein. In addition, the isolates were evaluated for their in vitro anti-inflammatory activity, and all tested compounds exhibited modest inhibitory effects against nitric oxide (NO) production in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced RAW264.7 macrophages.

Regulation of bone and fat balance by Fructus Ligustri Lucidi in ovariectomized mice

CONTEXT

Fructus Ligustri Lucidi (FLL), a commonly used herb of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), is the fruit of Ligustrum lucidum Ait. (Oleaceae). The ethanol extract of FLL is a potential candidate for preventing and treating postmenopausal osteoporosis (PMOP) by nourishing the liver and kidneys.

OBJECTIVE

This study determines whether an ethanol extract of FLL has anti-osteoporotic effects in ovariectomized (OVX) mice and explores the underlying mechanism.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The OVX model of eight-week-old C57BL/6J female mice was taken, and ovariectomy was used as PMOP. Mice were divided into five groups: sham-operated group (n = 10), OVX group (n = 10), OVX + E₂ group (n = 10; 0.039 mg/kg), OVX + FLL group (n = 10; 2 g/kg) and OVX + FLL group (n = 10; 4 g/kg). Mice were treated by gavage with FLL or CMCNa once daily for 8 weeks. We harvested uteri, femur, and tibias from mice; bone mineral density (BMD) and bone microstructure were obtained by X-ray absorptiometry and micro-CT. Furthermore, the effect of FLL on the balance of osteoblast and adipocyte differentiation was investigated using bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMMSCs).

RESULTS

The results indicated that FLL did not affect OVX-induced estradiol reduction. Compared with OVX mice, FLL significantly increased BMD (63.54 vs. 61.96), Conn. D (86.46 vs. 57.00), and left tibial strength (13.91 vs. 11.27), decreased Tb. Sp (0.38 vs. 0.44) and body fat content (4.19% vs. 11.24%). FLL decreased osteoclast activity and enhanced RUNX2 expression; inhibited perilipin peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) expression and adipocyte differentiation from BMMSCs.

CONCLUSIONS

FLL prevented additional bone loss and improved bone microstructure in OVX mice by modulating bone and fat balance, suggesting that FLL might be a therapeutic agent for PMOP.

Metabolomics analysis of Ligustri Lucidi Fructus at different harvest times during the whole growing period based on ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography with mass spectrometry

After medicinal market research, it was found that the harvest time of Ligustri Lucidi Fructus (LLF) was chaotic in practice. In order to determine the optimal harvest period of LLF to ensure its pharmacological activity, metabolomics analysis of LLF at different harvest times based on ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-triple quadrupole-(linear ion trap)-tandem mass spectrometry was established. In this study, 166 differential metabolites (DMs) in 448 metabolites at different harvest times were screened out based on variable importance in projection value, and among them, 94 DMs with regular trends of change in relative content (59 increased and 35 decreased with the growth period) were chosen to further research. The result of the multivariate statistical analysis showed that November was the optimal harvest period of LLF. Additionally, 10-hydroxyligustroside, oleoside 11-methyl ester, and salidroside were screened out to be used as the evaluation indicators of immature LLF, while specnuezhenide, nuezhenoside G13, and neonuezhenide were the evaluation indicators of mature LLF. This study provides fundamental insight for metabolite identification and proposes the best harvest period of LLF to avoid confusion in the medicinal market.

Monoterpenoid Glycosides from the Leaves of Ligustrum robustum and Their Bioactivities (II)

Ligustrum robustum has been not only used as a heat-clearing and detoxicating functional tea (Ku-Ding-Cha) but also consumed as a hypotensive, anti-diabetic, and weight-reducing folk medicine. From the leaves of L. robustum, ten new monoterpenoid glycosides named ligurobustosides T10 (1a), T11 (1b), T12 (2a), T13 (2b), T14 (3a), T15 (3b), F1 (4b), T16 (5a), T17 (5b), and E1 (6b), together with five known ones (4a, 6a, 7, 8a, 8b), were separated and identified using the spectroscopic method and chemical method in this research. The results of biological tests exhibited that the fatty acid synthase (FAS) inhibitory action of compound 5 (IC50: 4.38 ± 0.11 μM) was as strong as orlistat (IC50: 4.46 ± 0.13 μM), a positive control; the α-glucosidase inhibitory actions of compounds 1-4 and 7-8, and the α-amylase inhibitory actions of compounds 1-8 were medium; the ABTS radical scavenging capacities of compounds 1-3 and 5-8 (IC50: 6.27 ± 0.23 ~ 8.59 ± 0.09 μM) were stronger than l-(+)-ascorbic acid (IC50: 10.06 ± 0.19 μM) served as a positive control. This research offered a theoretical foundation for the leaves of L. robustum to prevent diabetes and its complications.

Structural characterization and protective effect against renal fibrosis of polysaccharide from Ligustrum lucidum Ait

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Fructus Ligustri Lucidi (FLL), the fruit of Ligustrum lucidum Ait., is a traditional Chinese medicine that has been used for tonifying the kidney and liver for decades.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study aimed to explore and identify polysaccharides from FLL and elucidate its protective effect against renal fibrosis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Polysaccharides were extracted and isolated from FLL. The purified fraction was identified by serial phytochemical work, such as gel-permeation chromatography, ion chromatography, gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, and nuclear magnetic resonance. Mice with unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) were applied as a renal fibrosis model. The male UUO mice were pretreated with heteropolysaccharide (Poly) 1 week prior to surgery and continuously treated for 7 days after the operation. Renal fibrosis was assessed by Periodic Acid-Schiff (PAS) staining and Masson's trichrome staining in paraffin-embedded slides. The murine mesangial cells SV40-MES13 upon angiotensin II (Ang II) treatment were developed as an in vitro fibrotic model. The cells were treated by Poly in the presence of Ang II. Molecular expression was detected by RT-PCR, immunoblotting, and immunofluorescence staining.

RESULTS

We identified a heteropolysaccharide composed of arabinose and galactose (molar ratio, 0.73:0.27) with a predicted chemical structure characterized by a backbone composed of 1,5-α-Araf, 1,3,5-α-Araf, 1,6-α-Galp, and 1,3,6-β-Galp and side chains comprised of T-α-Araf, T-α-Arap, and 1,3-α-Araf. Pretreatment of UUO mice with Poly effectively alleviated glomerulosclerosis and tubulointerstitial fibrosis. Moreover, Poly pretreatment down-regulated the expression of extracellular matrix (ECM) protein fibronectin (FN), profibrotic factor VEGF, proinflammatory cytokines MCP-1 and Rantes in the obstructed kidney. Similarly, the incubation of SV40-MES13 cells with Poly significantly inhibited Ang II-induced elevation in accumulation and expression level of FN and attenuated Ang II-evoked up-regulation in protein expression of MCP-1 and Rantes.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study isolated and identified a naturally occurring heteropolysaccharide in FLL and revealed its potential in protecting the kidneys from fibrosis.

Ligustri Lucidi Fructus, a traditional Chinese Medicine: Comprehensive review of botany, traditional uses, chemical composition, pharmacology, and toxicity

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Ligustri Lucidi Fructus (LLF) is one of the usual Chinese herbs that has long been used with high therapeutic and condition value. LLF is used for the treatment of dizziness and tinnitus, soreness and weakness of the waist and knees, premature greying of the hair, the darkness of the eyes, internal heat and thirst, bone steam and hot flashes and other symptoms.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This review reviews botany, traditional uses, processing, phytochemistry, quality control, pharmacology, toxicity and pharmacokinetics to better understand its therapeutic potential.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The literature on LLF was obtained from Google Scholar and Baidu Scholar, PubMed, ScienceDirect, SciFinder, Web of Science, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), WAN FANG DATA and libraries. Some local books, official websites, PhD or MS's dissertations were also included. Phytochemical constituents' structures were drawn by ChemDraw software.

RESULTS

So far, Multiple chemical components were isolated and identified from LLF, mainly including terpenoids and flavonoids. Modern studies have shown that LLF extracts and compounds have a wide range of pharmacological effects, including antitumor, liver protection, blood glucose, lipid-lowering, immune regulation, and other aspects.

CONCLUSIONS

LLF occupies an important position in the traditional medical system. It is cost-effective and is a significant plant with therapeutic applications in modern medicine. However, further in-depth studies are needed to determine the medical use of this plant and its chemical composition, pharmacological activity, quality control, toxicity and pharmacokinetics.

Chemical Constituents from the Leaves of Ligustrum robustum and Their Bioactivities

The leaves of Ligustrum robustum have been consumed as Ku-Ding-Cha for clearing heat and removing toxins, and they have been used as a folk medicine for curing hypertension, diabetes, and obesity in China. The phytochemical research on the leaves of L. robustum led to the isolation and identification of two new hexenol glycosides, two new butenol glycosides, and five new sugar esters, named ligurobustosides X (1a), X₁ (1b), Y (2a), and Y₁ (2b) and ligurobustates A (3a), B (3b), C (4b), D (5a), and E (5b), along with seven known compounds (4a and 6-10). Compounds 1-10 were tested for their inhibitory effects on fatty acid synthase (FAS), α-glucosidase, and α-amylase, as well as their antioxidant activities. Compound 2 showed strong FAS inhibitory activity (IC₅₀ 4.10 ± 0.12 μM) close to that of the positive control orlistat (IC₅₀ 4.46 ± 0.13 μM); compounds 7 and 9 revealed moderate α-glucosidase inhibitory activities; compounds 1-10 showed moderate α-amylase inhibitory activities; and compounds 1 and 10 displayed stronger 2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) ammonium salt (ABTS) radical scavenging effects (IC₅₀ 3.41 ± 0.08~5.65 ± 0.19 μM) than the positive control l-(+)-ascorbic acid (IC₅₀ 10.06 ± 0.19 μM). This study provides a theoretical foundation for the leaves of L. robustum as a functional tea to prevent diabetes and its complications.

Fructus ligustri lucidi suppresses inflammation and restores the microbiome profile in murine colitis models

BACKGROUND

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is pathologically characterized by an inappropriate immune response to the gut commensal microbes accompanied by persistent epithelial barrier dysfunction, and its progression increases the susceptibility to colitis-associated cancer (CAC), as well as other complications. Fructus ligustri lucidi (FLL) has a long historical application in traditional Chinese medicine due to its various pharmacological effects, including antioxidation and anti-inflammation. The present study aimed to explore the molecular and cellular mechanisms of FLL in treating colitis.

METHODS

A high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) combined with ultraviolet (UV) was performed to validate the quality of FLL; Network pharmacology analysis and weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) based on The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database predicted the therapeutic value of FLL against UC and CAC; 2% dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) was administered to mice to establish murine models of experimental colitis, and FLL was given for the next 14 days at different concentrations; 16S rRNA sequencing and untargeted metabolomics were performed on fecal samples to delineate the alteration in microbiome profile; Western blotting, flow cytometry, and immunocytochemistry experiments were conducted to confirm the predicted cellular mechanisms.

RESULTS

Network pharmacology analysis and WGCNA predicted that the targets of the FLL were associated with the progression of UC and the survival of patients with colorectal cancer by regulating tumor necrosis factor (TNF) and IL-17 signaling pathways, immune cell functions, responses to bacterial and reactive oxygen species (ROS), and cell proliferation. In vivo experiments corroborated that the high dose of FLL significantly attenuated the progression of experimental colitis by reversing the weight loss and bloody stool, reconstructing the integrity of colorectal epithelium, and suppressing the concentration of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Moreover, FLL treatment reduced the transition of macrophages (Mφs) to the proinflammatory phenotype and promoted Mφs-regulated wound healing, and suppressed the production of ROS in intestinal organoids (IOs) and crypts. 16S rRNA and untargeted metabolomics showed that the administration of FLL inhibited DSS-caused colonization of the potentially pathogenic gut microorganisms and reversed DSS-influenced metabolic profile.

CONCLUSION

FLL is a potent anti-colitis drug by suppressing inflammation and rescuing dysbiosis.

Combination of Ligustri Lucidi Fructus with Ecliptae Herba and their phytoestrogen or phytoandrogen like active pharmaceutical ingredients alleviate oestrogen/testosterone-induced benign prostatic hyperplasia through regulating steroid 5-α-reductase

BACKGROUND

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a urinary system disease with high prevalence among the middle and elder men. In BPH, proliferation of prostate cells and the imbanlance between androgen and estrogen are both important inducers. Previous studies have demonstrated that compounds from Ligustri Lucidi Fructus (LLF) and Ecliptae Herba (EH) are of phytoestrogenic or phytoandrogenic activities. The combination of LLF with EH at the ratio of 1:1 on crude drugs quantity is called Erzhi formula (EZF), which is used for in vivo research of our study.

PURPOSE

This study aimed to investigate potential mechanisms of EZF and its active pharmaceutical ingredients on BPH in vitro and in vivo.

METHODS

Therapeutic effects of EZF was evaluated in E₂/testosterone (1:100) induced BPH rats model. The pathological changes of prostate, concentrations of testosterone, DHT, E₂, PSA in rats' plasma and prostate were detected. The expressions of PCNA, AR, ERα, ERβ, SRD5A1, SRD5A2 were measured in BPH rat prostates and E₂-stimulated human benign prostatic epithelial cells (BPH-1).

RESULTS

EZF treatment significantly attenuated rat prostate enlargement, alleviated BPH pathological features, and decreased the expression of PCNA. The up-regulation of AR, ERα, SRD5A1/2 expressions, and down-regulation of ERβ expression at prostate of rat BPH model were significantly blocked by EZF administration. The expression levels of testosterone, DHT, E₂, PSA were strongly inhibited by EZF treatment. At the cellular level, ligustrosidic acid and echinocystic acid inhibited E₂-induced BPH-1 cell proliferation and PCNA expressions, which were consistent with the results in vivo. And these two ingredients also down-regulated the expressions of AR, ERα, SRD5A1/2 and up-regulated the expression of ERβ in BPH-1 cells.

CONCLUSION

EZF, ligustrosidic acid from LLF and echinocystic acid from EH showed inhibitive effects on BPH via down-regulating prostatic AR, ERα, SRD5A1/2 expressions and up-regulating ERβ expression.

[Complete chloroplast genome of Ligustrum lucidum and highly variable marker identification for Ligustrum]

Ligustri Lucidi Fructus, the sun-dried mature fruit of Ligustrum lucidum, is cool, plain, sweet, and bitter, which can be used as both food and medicine, with the effects of improving vision, blacking hair, and tonifying liver and kidney. It takes effect slowly. However, little is known about the genetic information of the medicinal plant and it is still a challenge to distinguish Ligustrum species. In this study, the complete chloroplast genome of L. lucidum was obtained by genome skimming and then compared with that of five other Ligustrum species, which had been reported. This study aims to evaluate the interspecific variation of chloroplast genome within the genus and develop molecular markers for species identification of the genus. The result showed that the chloroplast genome of L. lucidum was 162 162 bp with a circular quadripartite structure of two single-copy regions separated by a pair of inverted repeats. The Ligustrum chloroplast genomes were conserved with small interspecific difference. Comparative analysis of six Ligustrum chloroplast genomes revealed three variable regions(rbcL-accD, ycf1a, and ycf1b), and ycf1a and ycf1b can be used as the species-specific DNA barcode for Ligustrum. Phylogeny analysis provided the best resolution of Ligustrum and supported that L. lucidum was sister to L. gracile. This study clarified the genetic diversity of L. lucidum from provenance, which can serve as a reference for further analysis of pharmacological differences and breeding of excellent varieties with stable drug effects.

Fructus Ligustri Lucidi aqueous extract promotes calcium balance and short-chain fatty acids production in ovariectomized rats

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Fructus Ligustri Lucidi (FLL) is an edible herb with anti-osteoporotic activity, yet whether and how the aqueous extract of this herb affect calcium metabolism in preservation of bone quality remain unclear.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To investigate the effects of FLL aqueous extract on calcium balance and short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) production in ovariectomized (OVX) rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

OVX rats were daily and orally administrated with FLL aqueous extract (3.5 g/kg) for 14 weeks. The levels of N-terminal propeptide of type I collagen (PINP) and C-terminal telopeptide of type I collagen (CTx-I) in rat serum were evaluated by ELISA assays. The concentration of calcium in serum, urine, and feces were determined by biochemical assays. Bone quality was determined by Micro-CT, a three-point bending assay, and Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) Spectrometry. The expressions of Calbindin D28K and Calcium-sensing receptor (CaSR) in kidney as well as the Vitamin D receptor (VDR), the transient receptor potential vanilloid receptor 6 (TRPV6), Calbindin D9k in the duodenum were measured by immunohistochemistry, western blotting, or real-time PCR. The short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) levels in the feces of the cecum were tested by gas chromatograghy.

RESULTS

The administration of FLL to OVX rats resulted in a significant improvement in bone mineral density and biomechanical strength as well as in maintaining bone microstructures and material quality. Meanwhile, the decreased levels of PINP and increased levels of CTx-I in OVX rats were restored by FLL treatment. Additionally, FLL treatment increased calcium absorption, upregulated VDR, TRPV6, Calbindin D9k expressions in the duodenum, Calbindin D28K in kidney, and down-regulated CaSR expression in the kidney, as well as enhanced SCFAs levels in the feces of OVX rats.

CONCLUSIONS

FLL aqueous extract may preserve bone quality through regulation of the calcium balance and intestinal SCFAs production in OVX rats. This offers translational value of FLL into osteoporosis clinical trial.

Anti-perimenopausal osteoporosis effects of Erzhi formula via regulation of bone resorption through osteoclast differentiation: A network pharmacology-integrated experimental study

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Erzhi formula (EZF) consists of Ecliptae herba (EH) and Fructus Ligustri Lucidi (FLL) at a ratio 1:1, and constitutes a well-known formula in China that is commonly used for treating menopausal diseases.

AIM OF THE STUDY

In this study, we explored the pharmacologic actions and potential molecular mechanisms underlying EZF's action in preventing and treating osteoporosis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The active components and related targets of EZF's anti-osteoporotic effects were predicted by network pharmacology, and functional enrichment analysis was also performed. We then used an osteoporosis model of ovariectomized (OVX) mice to detect the effects of EZF on osteoporosis.

RESULTS

The results from network pharmacology identified a total of 10 active ingredients from EH and 13 active ingredients from FLL that might affect 65 potential therapeutic targets. GO enrichment analysis revealed that EZF affected bone tissue primarily via hormone (particularly estradiol)-related pathways and bone resorption by osteoclast differentiation. KEGG analysis demonstrated that bone-related factors such as Runt-related transcription factor 2 (Runx2), Ca2, estrogen receptor1 (ESR1), androgen receptors (AR), and TNFα served as the primary targets during osteoclastic differentiation. In vivo experiments showed that the formula significantly improved the diminution in estrogen and the subsequent uterine atrophy induced by ovariectomy (P < 0.01 or 0.05), implying that the EZF exerted its actions via regulation of estradiol and the nourishing effects of the uterus in OVX mice. Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry and micro-CT showed that EZF significantly inhibited bone loss and improved bone micro-architecture by statistically increasing the number of bone trabeculae and decreasing the separation of bone trabeculae in OVX mice (P < 0.01 or 0.05); EZF also inhibited bone loss and enhanced bone-fracture load. Furthermore, we confirmed that EZF reduced the calcium concentrations, augmented protein and mRNA levels for Runx2 in the bone marrow, and reduced PPARγ levels. RANKL-a key downstream regulatory protein of many targets that was referred to in our results of network pharmacology as being involved in the regulation of osteoclastogenesis-was significantly diminished by EZF; it also elevated OPG content. In addition, we used monocytes of bone-marrow origin to detect the effects of the potential components of EZF on osteoclast differentiation and found that wedelolactone, oleanolic acid, echinocystic acid, luteolin, and luteolin-7-o-glucoside significantly inhibited osteoclast differentiation from monocytes induced by 25 ng/mL MCSF and 50 ng/mL RANKL (P < 0.01 or 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Our present study indicated that EZF significantly inhibited the bone loss induced by OVX in mice by its regulation of estradiol combined with the nourishing effect of the uterus, and that it also attenuated bone resorption by decreasing the RANKL/OPG ratio so as to inhibit osteoclast maturation.

A rapid assay to screen adenosine deaminase inhibitors from Ligustri Lucidi Fructus against metabolism of cordycepin utilizing ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry

Cordycepin has recently received increased attention owing to its extensive pharmacological activity. Adenosine deaminase (ADA) is widely distributed in mammalian blood and tissues; as a result, cordycepin is quickly metabolized upon entering into the body and converted into the inactive metabolite 3'-deoxyinosine, thus limiting its activity when administered alone. We herein present a novel ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS) method for screening ADA inhibitors against the metabolism of cordycepin. Cordycepin and 3'-deoxyinosine were chosen as substrate and product, respectively. A proper separation was achieved for all analytes within 3 min. 3'-Deoxyinosine was quantified in the presence or absence of potential ADA inhibitors to evaluate ADA activity. The assay can simultaneously determine substrate and product, with the endogenous substance and ADA inhibitors added not interfering in its activity. After optimizing the enzymatic incubation and UHPLC-MS/MS conditions, Km and Vmax values for ADA deamination of cordycepin were 95.18 ± 7.85 μm and 363.90 ± 12.16 μmol/min/unit, respectively. Oleanolic acid and ursolic acid from Ligustri Lucidi Fructus were chosen as ADA inhibitors with half maximal inhibitory concentration values of 21.82 ± 0.39 and 18.41 ± 0.14 μm, respectively. A non-competitive inhibition model was constructed and this assay can be used to screen other potential ADA inhibitors quickly and accurately.

Enzyme Inhibitory Potential of Ligustrum lucidum Aiton Berries

Ligustrum lucidum Aiton and its berries have been used in Chinese traditional medicine for around two thousand years. In the present study, L. lucidium berries harvested in two regions of Portugal were studied. Haemolytic activity and inhibition of oxidative haemolysis as well as the enzyme inhibitory activities (α-amylase enzyme and acetylcholinesterase) were assessed. Results suggest that the different biological activities varied according to the region where samples were collected. Results demonstrated that the sample obtained from region R1 was the most efficient extract for all parameters evaluated, presenting the lowest values of IC₅₀, 10.67 ± 0.46 μg/mL for the inhibition of erythrocyte oxidative haemolysis, 58.28 ± 3.77 μg/mL for the α-amylase enzyme and 67.67 ± 2.10 μg/mL for the acetylcholinesterase inhibition. L. Lucidum berries may be an interesting source of compounds for use in the development of the therapeutic armamentarium for diseases where enzymatic disruption is believed to play a role.

[Qualitative and quantitative analysis on non-triterpenoids in Ligustri Lucidi Fructus]

In order to improve the quality control level of Ligustri Lucidi Fructus(LLF) and to explore the changes of chemical components after processing,the HPLC method for fingerprint and simultaneous determination of the major polar components in LLF were established. The octadecylsilane bonded silica gel was used as the stationary phase,with acetonitrile as the mobile phase A and0. 2% formic acid as the mobile phase B in a gradient elution procedure at a flow rate of 1. 0 m L·min-1. The detection wavelength was set at 280 nm and the column temperature was 25 ℃. There were 22 common peaks,20 of which were selected from the fingerprint of LLF and its wine-steamed product,respectively,and 14 chromatographic peaks were identified with reference substances. With the same chromatographic conditions,seven components were quantitatively analyzed and the results of system adaptability and methodology investigation all met the requirements of content determination. Compared with the crude LLF,the content of 5-hydroxymethyl furfural and salidroside significantly increased in wine-steamed LLF,while the contents of iridoid glycosides generally decreased. The method provided a basis for quality control of LLF and its processed products as well as the related preparations.

Evaluation of MMP Inhibitors Isolated from Ligustrum japonicum Fructus

The current study investigated the ability of two secoiridoids, GL-3 (1) and oleonuezhenide (2), isolated from the fruits of Ligustrum japonicum to inhibit MMP-2 and -9 activity in phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA)-induced HT-1080 human fibrosarcoma cells. Both compounds1 and 2 were able to exert lowered gelatin digestion activity for MMP-2 and -9 tested by gelatin zymography via suppressing the release of MMPs to culture medium according to ELISA results. Treatment with compounds was also able to suppress the expression of both mRNA and protein levels of MMP-2 and -9. Action mechanism behind the MMP inhibitory effect of the compounds was suggested to be via MAPK pathway indicated by decreased levels of phosphorylated p38, ERK and JNK proteins evaluated employing immunoblotting. Compound 1 was shown to be slightly more active to inhibit MMP-2 and -9, however, compound 2 showed more regular dose-dependency during inhibition. In conclusion, this study suggested that GL-3 and oleonuezhenide were notable natural origin potent MMP inhibitors and could serve as lead compounds for development of anti-invasive MMP inhibitors against tumor metastasis.

[Protective effect of Ligustri Lucidi Ait Polysaccharide against lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammatory injury of Sertoli cells in rats]

OBJECTIVE

To explore the effect of Ligustri Lucidi Ait Polysaccharide (LLP) on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammatory injury of Sertoli cells.

METHODS

Rat Sertoli cells were isolated and cultured in vitro and then divided into five groups, blank control, LPS, LPS + low-dose LLP, LPS + medium-dose LLP, and LPS + high-dose LLP. After 48 hours of treatment, the proliferation of the cells was detected by CCK-8, their apoptosis determined by FMC, and the levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activity and malondialdehyde (MDA) in the supernatant of the cell culture medium measured by ultraviolet spectrophotometry. The contents of IL-1α, IL-6 and TGF-β in the culture medium were detected by ELISA before and after removal of LPS.

RESULTS

The proliferation of the cells showed statistically significant differences among different groups (F = 153.93, P < 0.01), markedly reduced in the LPS group as compared with the blank control (P < 0.01), but remarkably increased in the high- and medium-dose LLP groups in comparison with the LPS group (both P < 0.01), and so did the apoptosis of the cells (F = 64.06, P < 0.01), significantly increased in the LPS group as compared with the blank control (P < 0.05), but markedly decreased in the high- and medium-dose LLP groups in comparison with the LPS group (both P < 0.01). Statistically significant differences were also observed among different groups in the levels of SOD (F = 56.07, P < 0.01), CAT (F = 41.57, P < 0.01), GSH-Px activity (F = 238.46, P < 0.01), and MDA (F = 285.31, P < 0.01), with decreased SOD, CAT and GSH-Px activity (P < 0.01) and increased MDA (P < 0.01) in the LPS group as compared with the control, but elevated SOD and CAT in the high- and medium-dose LLP groups and increased GSH-Px activity and decreased MDA concentration in all the three LLP groups in comparison with the LPS group (P < 0.01). Before the removal of LPS, the contents of IL-1α, IL-6 and TGF-β in the culture medium were markedly higher in the LPS than in the control group (all P < 0.01), that of IL-1α was increased significantly in the high- and medium-dose LLP groups (P < 0.01 and P < 0.05) while those of IL-6 and TGF-β showed no statistically significant differences in the three LPS groups as compared with the LLP group (P > 0.05). After the removal of LPS, the contents of IL-1α and IL-6 were remarkably reduced (t = 25.26 and 61.43, P < 0.01) and that of TGF-β increased (t = －18.16, P < 0.01), even more significantly in the LLP+LPS groups (P < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Ligustri Lucidi Ait Polysaccharide plays a protective role in LPS-induced inflammatory injury of Sertoli cells by reducing cell apoptosis and regulating the contents of IL-1α, IL-6 and TGF-β from Sertoli cells in inflammation.

Inhibitory effect of Ligustrum vulgare leaf extract on the development of neuropathic pain in a streptozotocin-induced rat model of diabetes

BACKGROUND

Chronic hyperalgesia and allodynia associated with progressive damage of peripheral neurons are the most prevalent complications of diabetes mellitus. Plants belonging to the family of Oleaceae were traditionally used in folk medicine for the management of diabetes.

HYPOTHESIS/PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to investigate whether an aqueous extract from the leaves of Ligustrum vulgare (common privet) could be useful to target neuropathic pain in a rat streptozotocin (STZ) model of diabetes.

METHODS

The chemical composition of the aqueous extract from privet leaf was characterized with the UHPLC-DAD-MS method and the analytical quantification of its constituents was performed with HPLC-DAD. Mechanical hyperalgesia and allodynia were evaluated with the Randall-Selitto and von Frey tests.

RESULTS

Our investigation revealed the presence of secoiridoids: oleacein (23.48 ± 0.87 mg/g), oleocanthal (8.44 ± 0.08 mg/g), oleuropein (1.50 ± 0.01 mg/g), as well as phenylpropanoids: echinacoside (6.46 ± 0.07 mg/g), verbascoside (4.03 ± 0.04 mg/g) and p-coumaroyl glucarates in the dried aqueous extract of privet leaves. Behavioral data indicated that chronic intraperitoneal administration of the extract (50-200 mg/kg) for 21 days resulted in a decrease in diabetes-induced hyperalgesia and allodynia. Blood glucose levels remained unaltered, while body weight and water intake decreased significantly.

CONCLUSION

The aqueous privet leaf extract could serve useful in facilitating treatment of painful diabetic neuropathy. Additionally, the study showed that the antihyperalgesic activity of Ligustrum vulgare leaf extract is not likely related to its antihyperglycemic properties.

A Comprehensive Quality Evaluation Method Based on C30-HPLC and an Analytic Hierarchy Process for the Chinese Herbal Formula, Erzhiwan

The quantitative analysis of multiple indexes remains an important quality evaluation method of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) herbal formulas. The Chinese Pharmacopoeia 2015 only stipulates the content of a single component, specnuezhenide, in Erzhiwan composed of the Fructus Ligustri Lucidi (FLL) powder and aqueous extracts of Herba Ecliptae (HE). To generalize the intrinsic quality of Erzhiwan, a novel C30-HPLC method with good precision, accuracy, and reproducibility was developed for the simultaneous determination of six compounds, including two isomers, and then an analytic hierarchy process was further applied to integrate and discriminate the quality of four samples prepared via different methods. The results of the analysis were in agreement with the antioxidant tests in vitro. This comprehensive strategy could provide a reference and suggestions for the improvement of the quality evaluation method of TCM herbal formulas.

In Vitro and In Vivo Evaluation of Antitumor Activity of Ligustrum robustum, A Chinese Herbal Tea

OBJECTIVE

To examine the effect of the aqueous extract of Ligustrum robustum on tumor growth in vitro and in vivo and explore the possible molecular mechanisms.

METHODS

In in vitro study, cell viabilities of human cervical carcinoma cells (HeLa), human breast cancer cells (MCF-7), human prostate cancer cells (PC-3), human hepatoma cells (7721) and human colon carcinoma cells (SW480) were evaluated with cell counting kit-8. For L. robustum-treated Hela cells, early or late apoptosis were evaluated by annexin V/PI staining. Mitochondrial membrane potential was measured by staining cells with JC-1. Apoptosis was monitored by nuclear morphology based on chromatin condensation and fragmentation by 4',6-diamidino-2-phenylinole (DAPI) staining. Caspase-3 and -8 activity levels were measured by a colorimetric assay. In vivo, to evaluate the possible mechanism of L. robustum-mediated antitumor effect, nude mouse xenograft study was also conducted.

RESULTS

In in vitro study, L. robustum was found to be toxic to HeLa, MCF-7, PC-3, 7721, SW480, with an half maximal inhibitory concentration value of 2-5 mg/mL (P<0.05). Moreover, externalization of phosphatidylserine, loss of mitochondrial membrane potential, DNA fragmentation and activation of caspase-3 and -8 were detected in L. robustum-treated Hela cells. Using a nude mouse model bearing Hela xenografts, we found that L. robustum reduced tumor volume and tumor weight (P<0.05), but had no effect on body weight and histological damage of important organs. Intraperitoneal injection of L. robustum caused a significant reduction in serum aspartate transaminase and alanine transaminase levels (P<0.05). Furthermore, cleaved caspase-3-positive and terminal nucleotidyl transferase-mediated nick end labeling (TUNEL)-positive cells were observed in L. robustum-treated tumor tissues.

CONCLUSIONS

L. robustum inhibits tumor cell growth both in vitro and in vivo by inducing apoptosis in a caspase-dependent way without apparent hepatic toxicity and histological damage, which may offer partial scientific support for the ethnopharmacological claims of L. robustum as a herbal tea for its antitumor activity.

New secoiridoids from the fruits of Ligustrum lucidum

Three new secoiridoids, nuezhenelenoliciside (1), isojaslanceoside B (2), 6'-O-trans-cinnamoyl-secologanoside (3), were isolated from the dried fruits of Ligustrum lucidum. Their structures were elucidated by comprehensive spectroscopic analysis. Among them, 1 featured a rare rearrangement product of secoiridoid, which underwent the cleavage of chemical bond between C-1 and O-2, and the reformation of a new iridoid ring between C-8 and O-2. In addition, all compounds were tested for their osteogenic activity on pre-osteoblastic MC3T3-E1 cells. As a result, 1 and 3 exhibited potent effects on promoting cell proliferation of pre-osteoblast cells.

Biomonitoring levels and trends of PAHs and synthetic musks associated with land use in urban environments

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are some of the most studied organic compounds in urban environments, due to their known adverse effects on human health and persistence in environmental matrices. During the last decade, new groups of organic compounds with an intensive use worldwide such as synthetic musks have been raising the interest of the scientific community given their toxicity and health effects. However, literature is still scarce in studies dealing with their concentration in the environment, especially in developing countries, where they are even more rare or non-existing at all. We employed leaves of Ligustrum lucidum to assess the concentrations of PAHs and synthetic musks in different land use areas in Cordoba city, therefore contributing with environmental information in Argentina. We found higher levels of PAHs in urban and industrial areas than in the peri-urban sampling sites, naphthalene being one of the dominant PAHs in all sampling areas. Regarding synthetic musk fragrances, polycyclic musks were the most contributing compounds and the highest levels found in industrial areas as well. A high environmental risk could be expected due to the frequent occurrence of galaxolide in addition to the high hazardous potential of phantolide, which was present in 50% of the samples. The results of the present study indicate that leaves of an urban ubiquitous tree can be used to assess the spatial behavior of both "classic" and "emerging" organic pollutants, allowing an assessment of urban air quality in areas where common air sampling devices are unavailable.

Fructus Ligustri Lucidi in Osteoporosis: A Review of its Pharmacology, Phytochemistry, Pharmacokinetics and Safety

Background: Fructus Ligustri Lucidi (FLL) has now attracted increasing attention as an alternative medicine in the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis. This study aimed to provide a general review of traditional interpretation of the actions of FLL in osteoporosis, main phytochemical constituents, pharmacokinetics, pharmacology in bone improving effect, and safety. Materials and Methods: Several databases, including PubMed, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, National Science and Technology Library, China Science and Technology Journal Database, and Web of Science were consulted to locate publications pertaining to FLL. The initial inquiry was conducted for the presence of the following keywords combinations in the abstracts: Fructus Ligustri Lucidi, osteoporosis, phytochemistry, pharmacokinetics, pharmacology, osteoblasts, osteoclasts, salidroside. About 150 research papers and reviews were consulted. Results: FLL is assumed to exhibit anti-osteoporotic effects by improving liver and kidney deficiencies and reducing lower back soreness in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). The data from animal and cell experiments demonstrate that FLL is able to improve bone metabolism and bone quality in ovariectomized, growing, aged and diabetic rats through the regulation of PTH/FGF-23/1,25-(OH)₂D₃/CaSR, Nox4/ROS/NF-κB, and OPG/RANKL/cathepsin K signaling pathways. More than 100 individual compounds have been isolated from this plant. Oleanolic acid, ursolic acid, salidroside, and nuzhenide have been reported to exhibit the anti-osteoporosis effect. The pharmacokinetics data reveals that salidroside is one of the active constituents, and that tyrosol is hard to detect under physiological conditions. Acute and subacute toxicity studies show that FLL is well tolerated and presents no safety concerns. Conclusions: FLL provides a new option for the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis, which attracts rising interests in identifying potential anti-osteoporotic compounds and fractions from this plant. Further scientific evidences are expected from well-designed clinical trials on its bone protective effects and safety.

Heavy metals in the soils and plants from a typical restored coal-mining area of Huainan coalfield, China

This study was conducted to pursue the heavy metals in the soil and plants of a typical restored coal-mining area, China. The average concentrations of Cu, Zn, Cr, Ni, and Pb in soil were 26.4, 76.1, 188.6, 34.3, and 50.2 mg kg^-1, respectively, implying a significant accumulation of Cr, Ni, and Pb compared with the background values. Contamination factor indicates that the soil underwent none to medium pollution by Cu and Zn, medium to strong by Cr, none to strong by Pb, and medium pollution by Ni while the pollution load index means that the soil was subjected to intermediate contamination. Based on the critical threshold values to protect the plants, the investigated metals were unable to affect the plants. One-way ANOVA analysis shows that Cu, Zn, and Pb in plants varied with plant tissues. Cu-Cr, Cu-Ni, Zn-Ni, Zn-Pb, Cr-Ni, and Ni-Pb pairs had significant positive correlation both in soil and in plants due to the similar soil characteristics and plant physiologies. Correspondence analysis indicates that Pb was more likely to be accumulative in stems and leaves. In addition, the levels of Cu and Cr in plant followed an order of roots > stems > leaves; Zn and Ni leaves ≥ stems > roots; and Pb followed stems ≥ leaves > roots. Generally, this study suggests that the plants like Ligustrum lucidum Aiton and Weigela hortensis, which are capable of accumulating Cr, Ni, and Pb, should be the predominant species in the studied area.

Chemical constituents from the fruits of Ligustrum japonicum and their inhibitory effects on T cell activation

A previously undescribed nor-dammarane, 3β,20,23-trihydroxy-24,25,26,27-tetranordammarane; three previously undescribed secoiridoid glycosides, ligujaponosides A-B, and iso-oleonuzhenide; and twenty three known compounds, were isolated from the fruits of Ligustrum japonicum Thunb. Their chemical structures were elucidated by extensive spectroscopic analyses, including 1D and 2D NMR, and HRMS. The isolated compounds were screened for immunosuppressive effects on T activated cells by evaluating interleukin-2 (IL-2) production. Among them, sesamin inhibited IL-2 production in Jurkat T cells with an IC50 value of 38 ± 2 μM. In addition, sesamin inhibited the phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase (ERK), a member of the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) family, in phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA)/A23187-stimulated T cells. Therefore, sesamin was demonstrated to inhibit T cell activation via regulation of MAPK phosphorylation pathway.

Inhibition of Hypoxia-Induced Retinal Angiogenesis by Specnuezhenide, an Effective Constituent of Ligustrum lucidum Ait., through Suppression of the HIF-1α/VEGF Signaling Pathway

Specnuezhenide (SPN), one of the main ingredients of Chinese medicine “Nü-zhen-zi”, has anti-angiogenic and vision improvement effects. However, studies of its effect on retinal neovascularization are limited so far. In the present study, we established a vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA) secretion model of human acute retinal pigment epithelial-19 (ARPE-19) cells by exposure of 150 μM CoCl₂ to the cells and determined the VEGFA concentrations, the mRNA expressions of VEGFA, hypoxia inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) & prolyl hydroxylases 2 (PHD-2), and the protein expressions of HIF-1α and PHD-2 after treatment of 3-(5′-hydroxymethyl-2′-furyl)-1-benzylindazole (YC-1, 1.0 μg/mL) or SPN (0.2, 1.0 and 5.0 μg/mL). Furthermore, rat pups with retinopathy were treated with SPN (5.0 and 10.0 mg/kg) in an 80% oxygen atmosphere and the retinal avascular areas were assessed through visualization using infusion of ADPase and H&E stains. The results showed that SPN inhibited VEGFA secretion by ARPE-19 cells under hypoxia condition, down-regulated the mRNA expressions of VEGFA and PHD-2 slightly, and the protein expressions of VEGFA, HIF-1α and PHD-2 significantly in vitro. SPN also prevented hypoxia-induced retinal neovascularization in a rat model of oxygen-induced retinopathy in vivo. These results indicate that SPN ameliorates retinal neovascularization through inhibition of HIF-1α/VEGF signaling pathway. Therefore, SPN has the potential to be developed as an agent for the prevention and treatment of diabetic retinopathy.

Anti-influenza virus effects of crude phenylethanoid glycosides isolated from ligustrum purpurascens via inducing endogenous interferon-γ

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Ligustrum purpurascens Y.C. Yang (Oleaceae) is traditionally recorded as "Ku Ding Cha", a kind of functional tea in southern China for about two thousand years, which has been reported with sore throat alleviating and pathogenic heat expelling effects. However, there are no scientific studies demonstrating its antiviral activity.

THE AIM OF THE STUDY

This study is aimed at investigating the anti-influenza virus effects of phenylethanoid glycosides isolated from L. purpurascens (LPG) as well as its corresponding mechanisms.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In vitro, hemagglutination assay was employed to detect the influenza virus titer; In vivo, C57BL/6J mice were given oral administration of LPG (100mg/kg, 300mg/kg, 900mg/kg) or ribavirin (100mg/kg) once daily for 5 successive days. Meanwhile, on the second day, mice were infected intranasally (i.n.) with A/FM/1/47 H1N1 virus. Mice survival rate and other clinical index were monitored for 15 days. Infected mice were sacrificed to measure the lung lesion and stained with hematoxylin-eosin. Flow cytometry analyses spleen lymphocytes and interferon-γ (IFN-γ) level. The IFN-γ knockout mice (IFN-γ(-/-) mice, C57BL/6J) which had been verified lacking IFN-γ through Western Blot, were applied in the death-protection test to identify the role of IFN-γ played in LPG antiviral effect.

RESULTS

In vitro, LPG at 0.5mg/ml inhibited Influenza A Virus H1N1 type (H1N1) infection of MDCK cells. In vivo, LPG at 300 and 900mg/kg significantly decreased the mouse lung index (p<0.05), alleviated influenza-induced lethality and clinical symptoms, and therefore enhanced mouse survival (p<0.05). More detailed experiments demonstrated that antiviral cytokine IFN-γ was involved in the antiviral effect of LPG. Flow cytometric analysis revealed that LPG (900mg/kg) significantly induced secretion of IFN-γ by splenic CD4(+) and CD8(+) cells (p<0.05). Moreover, LPG (900mg/kg) protected wild-type C57BL/6J mice from H1N1 injury, whereas LPG-mediated survival protection disappeared in IFN-γ(-/-) mice.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that up-regulating endogenous IFN-γ by LPG may represent a novel therapeutic approach for H1N1 infection.

Effects of Ligustrum robustum on gut microbes and obesity in rats

AIM: To investigate the anti-obesity and antibacterial effects of Ligustrum robustum (L. robustum) in vivo and in vitro and its possible mechanisms.

METHODS: The effects of L. robustum aqueous extract (LR) on various gut bacteria in vitro were evaluated. The effects of LR on high-fat diet-fed (HFD) rats in vivo were also assessed. Culture methods, quantitative polymerase chain reaction, and terminal-restriction fragment length polymorphism were used to analyze the effects of LR on gut bacteria. Biochemical tests were also performed to detect the changes in obesity-related indicators after LR treatment.

RESULTS: LR treatment lowered adipose weight and decreased Lee’s index, blood glucose, total cholesterol, and lipid in the tested groups relative to control (P < 0.05). To determine the reasons for these changes, we assessed the potential bacteriostatic and bactericidal effects of LR on specific bacterial species in vitro. LR affected the richness, diversity, and evenness of gut bacteria, increased fecal Lactobacillus, and decreased Enterococci in HFD rats (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION: L. robustum may be a safe and effective food for weight loss and obesity control, and the effects of L. robustum might be mediated by the regulation of gut bacteria.

Ligustrum lucidum and its Constituents: A Mini-Review on the Anti-Osteoporosis Potential

Osteoporosis is a metabolic bone disorder commonly occurred in aging populations, particularly postmenopausal women and patients who undergo long-term steroid or anti-estrogen therapies. Given the rapid growth of the aging population, the prevalence of bone loss, and the huge medical and healthcare cost involved, demand for alternative approaches for the promotion of bone health is pressing. With the advent of global interest in complementary and alternative medicine and natural products, Chinese medicine serves as a viable source that offers benefits to improve and maintain bone health. This review summarizes the scientific information on the Chinese medicinal herb Ligustrum lucidum and its chemical components as potential therapy for osteoporosis.

[Identification and Comparison of Constituents of Different Processed Products of Ligubtrum lucidum Fruit by HPLC Fingerprint]

OBJECTIVE

To identify and compare the constituents in different processed products of Ligubtrum lucidum fruit by HPLC fingerprint, in order to study the changes of chemical constituents before and after processing.

METHODS

HPLC analysis was carried outwith the mobile phase of acetonitrile and 0.1% formic acid in a gradient elution mode. The number of HPLC fingerprint chromatographic peaks and peak area changes in two processed products and the crude product under 240 nm and 280 nm were compared. Then the obtained fingerprint chromatographic peaks were confirmed according to the the standard references.

RESULTS

40 chromatographic peaks were detected from Ligustrum lucidum fruit, of which 18 chromatographic peaks were confirmed, including eleven iridoids, five phenethyl alcohols, one flavonoid and one aldehyde. 38 chromatographic peaks were detected from both steaming with wine product and the steamed product, of which 15 chromatographic peaks were confirmed, including seven iridoids, five phenethyl alcohols, one flavonoid, one aldehyde and one organic acid. There was a significant difference of fingerprint among crude Ligustrum lucidum fruit and its two processed products, but little difference between steaming with wine product and the steamed product.

CONCLUSION

HPLC fingerprint of the steaming with wine product and the steamed product of Ligustrum lucidum fruit are similar while the changes on chemical composition and the content in steaming with wine product and steamed product of Ligustrum lucidum fruit are remarkable.

[The mechanism of anthocyanin to anti-inflammatory and analgesic frnm Ligustrum fruit]

OBJECTIVE

To provide a theoretical basis for the further development of new drugs, the analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects and the liver function in mice of anthocyanin from Ligustrum vicaryi were investigated.

METHODS

The 240 experimental mice were splitted equally for 6 kinds of experiments and 40 rats in each kind of experiment were divided into 5 groups (n = 8): normal saline control group (NS); aspirin control group (Asp); high-concentration anthocyanin group (HA); medium-concentration anthocyanin group (MA); low-concentratior anthocyanin group (LA). The analgesia effect of anthocyanin at different concentration was detenmined by hot-plate test and acetic acid writhin test, and the anti-inflammatory effect of anthocyanin was performed by ear edema, ahdomen capillary permeability and cotton granuloma. The activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) and the contents of nitric oxide (NO) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) in blood serum were determined, and the activities of SOD, T-AOC and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) in liver were measured, while the histological changes of liver tissue were observed.

RESULTS

The pain threshold of mice was enhanced and the times of twist body wa decreased by medium-concentration and high-concentration anthocyanin. The activity of SOD was increased and the conentrs of NO and PGE were reduced in blood serum. High-concentration anthocyanin inhibited the ear swelling , the increase of celiac capillary permeability and th granuloma hyperplasia, and increased the activities of SOD and T-AOC while decreased the content of PGE2. The activities of SOD, T-AOC. GSH-PX were increased in liver, but the morphology of liver tissues in each group had no significant changes.

CONCLUSION

Anthocyanin Ligustrum vicaryi has definite anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, which is related to increasing the antioxidant capacity and decreasing th contents of NO and PGE2, and has not obvious damage to liver in the range of experimental concentration.

Effect of Fructus Ligustri Lucidi on osteoblastic like cell-line MC3T3-E1

Fructus Ligustri Lucidi, fruits of Ligustrum lucidum Ait. (Oleaceae), has the effects of tonifying the liver and the kidney and strengthening the bones and muscles. In ancient times, Fructus Ligustri Lucidi can be prepared in ethanol or in water. Some active compounds have been found in Fructus Ligustri Lucidi, like Oleanolic acid and Ursolic acid, and Ursolic acid were proved to have osteogenic effects.

METHODS AND RESULTS

To prove that Fructus Ligustri Lucidi water extract have osteogenic effects on MC3T3-E1 cells and how these effects work, we used CCK-8 (cell counting kit-8), ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay), FQ-PCR (realtime fluorescence quantitative PCR) and western blot assays. After treatment with Fructus Ligustri Lucidi for 48h, 72h, 96h, the cell viability was marked increased, on concentration-dependently and time-dependently pattern. High and low concentrations of Fructus Ligustri Lucidi promoted differentiation of cells. Fructus Ligustri Lucidi could up-regulate OPG and RANKL protein in supernatant at 48h and 72h except for highest concentration (10(-1)mg/ml). Fructus Ligustri Lucidi promote OPG and RANKL mRNA expression at 48h and 72h, while the level of promoting at 72 was higher than 48h. 10(-5)mg/ml of Fructus Ligustri Lucidi up-regulates OPG protein expression and down-regulates RANKL protein expression. After treatment with Fructus Ligustri Lucidi water extract, inhibitors, Fructus Ligustri Lucidi water extract with inhibitors for 72h, inhibitors PD 98059, SB 203580, SP600125 and LY 294002 showed Fructus Ligustri Lucidi-induced cell proliferation and the leakage of OPG proteins effects. Fructus Ligustri Lucidi promoted the protein levels of ERK, p-ERK, p-JNK, p38, pp38, AKT and p-AKT, and inhibited the protein levels of JNK.

CONCLUSIONS

Fructus Ligustri Lucidi water extract promoted cell proliferation and differentiation, mRNA and protein expression of OPG and RANKL on MC3T3-E1 cells. The effects of cell proliferation and leakage of OPG related to MAPK and AKT signaling pathways in different ways.

Anti-obesity effect of total phenylpropanoid glycosides from Ligustrum robustum Blume in fatty diet-fed mice via up-regulating leptin

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

In Chinese folk medicine, the leaves of Ligustrum robustum Blume (LR) were commonly used in the treatment of obesity and hyperlipidemia. This study aimed to evaluate the anti-obesity effect and mechanisms of total phenylpropanoid glycosides from Ligustrum robustum Blume (LRTPG) in fatty diet-fed C57BL/6J mice.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

C57BL/6J mice were divided randomly into 6 groups, i.e., control, model, positive (Orlistat 0.12g/kg), and LRTPG at three dosages (0.3, 0.6 or 1.2g/kg), respectively. Control mice were fed with standard diet; the others were fed with fatty diet. After 4 weeks׳ modeling, therapy mice were intragastrically administrated with positive drug or LRTPG for 5 weeks, respectively. Pharmacodynamic effects including body weight, fat weight, Lee׳s index, serum lipid levels, morphological changes and adipocyte area ratio were evaluated. The mechanisms were explored as the factors related to lipids metabolism in gene expressions by real-time PCR, and assured as the protein level of differential gene by Western blotting.

RESULTS

The anti-obesity effects of LRTPG in all treated mice were shown as decreased body weight, fat mass, Lee׳s index, total cholesterol (TC) level, and adipocyte area. The mechanisms were demonstrated as elevated mRNA and protein levels of adipose leptin, and consequently decreasing mRNA of adipose acyl coenzyme A: diacylglycerol acyltransferase (DGAT) with increasing mRNA of hepatic cholesterol 7α-hydroxylase (CYP7A1), which led to inhibition of triglyceride (TG) synthesis and promotion of cholesterol catabolism.

CONCLUSIONS

The anti-obesity effect of LRTPG in fatty diet-fed mice was related to the up-regulation of leptin, which may provide scientific evidence supporting the traditional usage of LR on obesity in China.

Quantitative Determination of Secoiridoids and Phenylpropanoids in Different Extracts of Ligustrum Vulgare L. Leaves by a Validated HPTLC-Photodensitometry Method

INTRODUCTION

The genus Ligustrum (Oleaceae) is distributed in Europe and Asia (south China and Korea), where it is used to prevent hypertension, sore throats, inflammation and diabetes. The main groups of compounds in extracts of Ligustrum vulgare are biologically active secoiridoids and phenylpropanoids.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the study was primarily the development and validation of a HPTLC-photodensitometry method for separation and determination of secoiridoids (oleacein, oleuropein) and phenylpropanoids (echinacoside) in different extracts prepared from leaves of L. vulgare. A secondary issue was the quantitative screening of oleacein, oleuropein and echinacoside in extracts from leaves collected at different stages of plant growth (from May to September).

METHODS

A HPTLC-photodensitometry method was developed and validated for quantification of oleuropein, oleacein and echinacoside in plant extracts (aqueous and ethanolic extract, decoction, infusion). Silica gel was used as the stationary phase and dichloromethane:methanol:formic acid:water (80:25:1.5:4, v/v/v/v) as the mobile phase.

RESULTS

The HPTLC-photodensitometry method developed for quantification of oleacein, oleuropein and echinacoside was specific, accurate and precise. The presence of oleacein was detected in aqueous extracts, whereas oleuropein was present, in particular, in ethanolic extracts, decoctions and infusions. Echinacoside was detected in all the extracts prepared. The content of secoiridoids was variable from May to September, whereas the amount of echinacoside increased in this term.

CONCLUSION

The developed and validated HPTLC-photodensitometry method allowed performing fast screening of quantitative profiles of oleacein, oleuropein and echinacoside in preparations of privet leaves.

Effects of Fructus ligustri lucidi on the growth, cell integrity, and metabolic activity of the Microcystis aeruginosa

Agricultural waste has been used in the treatment of cyanobacterial bloom because of its environmental friendly and cost-efficient characteristics. In this work, the effects of Fructus ligustri lucidi (FLL) on the growth inhibition, physiological properties, algicidal property, and cell ultrastructure of Microcystis aeruginosa were investigated for the first time. The alga was efficiently inhibited by FLL at the dosages from 0.25 to 4.0 g L(-1), and the Chl-a fluorescence and metabolic activity of cells also declined gradually. During 25 days incubation time, the inhibition ratio of 0.25 g L(-1) dosage increased from 8 to 68 %, the percentage of intact cells decreased from 94.4 to 59.8 %, the inhibition ratio of 2.0 and 4.0 g L(-1) dosages was nearly 100 %, and the cell membranes were completely broken. The results of Chl-a, propidium iodide (PI) staining, fluorescein diacetate (FDA) staining, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) assays were consistent with that of growth inhibition tests. The new medium test with the PI staining test suggested that FLL may act as an algicidal agent which can inhibit the growth of M. aeruginosa in the acute time. Consequently, FLL could be an excellent choice in the treatment of eutrophic water.

Protective effects of water fraction of Fructus Ligustri Lucidi extract against hypercalciuria and trabecular bone deterioration in experimentally type 1 diabetic mice

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Fructus Ligustri Lucidi (FLL), the fruit of Ligustrum lucidum Ait, is a commonly prescribed herb to nourish the endocrine and renal systems and to strengthen the bones in Traditional Chinese Medicine. This study was aimed to determine the effects of water fraction of FLL ethanol extract (WF-EE) on urinary calcium excretion and trabecular bone properties in type 1 diabetic mice.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The DBA/2J mice with type 1 diabetes induced by streptozotocin injection were orally administered with WF-EE. After 6 weeks of treatment, the level of biomarkers, including serum calcium, parathyroid hormone (PTH), and fibroblast growth factor-23 (FGF-23) and urine calcium, was measured. Micro-CT was performed to detect trabecular bone properties of the proximal tibial metaphysis. The expression of active calcium transporting proteins in kidney and duodenum was determined by RT-PCR, immunoblotting and immunostaining.

RESULTS

Type 1 diabetes induced hypercalciuria and trabecular bone deterioration. The WF-EE could significantly inhibit hypercalciuria and ameliorate the micro-structure of trabecular bone as well as increase serum PTH and FGF-23 levels in type 1 diabetic mice. The gene expressions of active calcium transporting proteins in duodenum were up-regulated, and the gene and protein expressions of calcium-sensing receptor (CaSR) in kidney were dramatically down-regulated in diabetic mice in response to the treatment with WF-EE.

CONCLUSIONS

The present study demonstrated the protective effects of the water fraction of Fructus Ligustri Lucidi ethanol extract against hypercalciuria and trabecular bone deterioration in experimentally type 1 diabetic mice, and the underlying mechanism may be attributed to its regulations on duodenal calcium transporting proteins and renal CaSR.

Fructus Ligustri Lucidi (FLL) ethanol extract increases bone mineral density and improves bone properties in growing female rats

Osteoporosis is a chronic disease affecting millions of people worldwide. It is generally accepted that acquisition of a high peak bone mass (PBM) early in life can reduce the risk of osteoporosis later in life. The aims of this study were to investigate the effects of Fructus Ligustri Lucidi (FLL) ethanol extract on bone mineral density and its mechanical properties in growing female rats and to explore the underlying mechanisms. The rats were given different doses of FLL extract mixed with AIN-93G formula (0.40, 0.65 and 0.90 %), and a group given AIN-93G diet treatment only was used as control. The intervention lasted for 16 weeks until the animals were about 5 months old, the time when the animals almost reach their PBM. Our results showed that FLL treatment increased bone mineral density and improved bone mechanical properties in the growing female rats in a dose-dependent manner. In addition, FLL treatment significantly decreased the serum bone-resorbing marker, CTX-I, while significantly increasing serum 25(OH)D3 and thereby increasing Ca absorption and Ca retention. Intriguingly, both in vivo and in vitro results demonstrated that FLL treatment could reduce the RANKL/OPG ratio. In conclusion, FLL ethanol extract exerted beneficial effects on peak bone mass acquisition and the improvement of bone mechanical properties by favoring Ca metabolism and decreasing the RANKL/OPG ratio.

Anti-obesity effect of (8-E)-niizhenide, a secoiridoid from Ligustrum lucidum, in high-fat diet-induced obese mice

The effect of the extract of Ligustrumn lucidum fruits (LFE) and its major secoiridoid (LFS), (8-E)-nüzhenide, on obesity was investigated using high fat-diet (HFD)-induced C58BL/6J obese mice. LFE and LFS were administered at the doses of 300 mg/kg and 30 mg/kg, respectively, for 6 weeks. The anti-obesity activity was evaluated by measuring body weight, epididymal fat and metabolic plasma parameters. On Day 42, the body weight of the LFS-treated group was significantly lower compared with the HFD-treated group. Body weight gain was also reduced by 23.2% and 32.0% in the LFE- and LFS-treated groups, respectively, compared with the HFD group. In addition, the weight of the epididymal fat in the mice was significantly decreased in the HFD+LFS group. The food efficiency ratios (FERs) of the HFD+LFE and HFD+LFS groups were also lower compared with the HFD group with the same food intake. Metabolic parameters that had increased in the HFD group were decreased in the HFD+LFE and HFD+LFS groups. In particular, the increased triglyceride values were significantly reduced in the HFD+LFS group. These results show that treatment with LFE and LFS decreased HFD-induced obesity, mainly by improving metabolic parameters, such as fats and triglycerides. Therefore, LFE and LFS have potential benefits in regulation of obesity.

Fructus ligustri lucidi ethanol extract improves bone mineral density and properties through modulating calcium absorption-related gene expression in kidney and duodenum of growing rats

Optimizing peak bone mass in early life is one of key preventive strategies against osteoporosis. Fructus ligustri lucidi (FLL), the fruit of Ligustrum lucidum Ait., is a commonly prescribed herb in many kidney-tonifying traditional Chinese medicinal formulas to alleviate osteoporosis. Previously, FLL extracts have been shown to have osteoprotective effect in aged or ovariectomized rats. In the present study, we investigated the effects of FLL ethanol extract on bone mineral density (BMD) and mechanical properties in growing male rats and explored the underlying mechanisms. Male weaning Sprague-Dawley rats were randomized into four groups and orally administrated for 4 months an AIN-93G formula-based diet supplementing with different doses of FLL ethanol extract (0.40, 0.65, and 0.90 %) or vehicle control, respectively. Then calcium balance, serum level of Ca, P, 25(OH)2D3, 1,25(OH)2D3, osteocalcin (OCN), C-terminal telopeptide of type I collagen (CTX-I), and parathyroid hormone, bone microarchitecture, and calcium absorption-related genes expression in duodenum and kidney were analyzed. The results demonstrated that FLL ethanol extract increased BMD of growing rats and improved their bone microarchitecture and mechanical properties. FLL ethanol extract altered bone turnover, as evidenced by increasing a bone formation maker, OCN, and decreasing a bone resorption maker, CTX-I. Intriguingly, both Ca absorption and Ca retention rate were elevated by FLL ethanol extract treatment, possibly through the mechanisms of up-regulating the transcriptions of calcitropic genes in kidney (1α-hydroxylase) and duodenum (vitamin D receptor, calcium transporter calbindin-D9k, and transient receptor potential vanilloid 6). In conclusion, FLL ethanol extract increased bone mass gain and improved bone properties via modulating bone turnover and up-regulating calcium absorption-related gene expression in kidney and duodenum, which could then activate 1,25(OH)2D3-dependent calcium transport in male growing rats.

[Study on effect of combination of Epimedii Folium and Ligustri Lucidi Fructus on osteoporosis rats induced by retinoic acid]

OBJECTIVE

To explore the effect of combination of Epimedii Folium and Ligustri Lucidi Fructus on osteoporosis rats induced by retinoic acid.

METHOD

Sixty three-month-old male Wistar rats were randomly divided into the normal control group, the model group, the Epimedii Folium group, the Ligustri Lucidi Fructus group, the combination group of Epimedii Folium and Ligustri Lucidi Fructus and the raloxifene group. The osteoporosis model was established through oral administration with retinoic acid for two weeks. Meanwhile, all of treatment groups were administered with corresponding drugs for three weeks. The contents of serum calcium (Ca), phosphorus (P), alkaline phosphatase (AKP) and tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (StrACP) were detected, and the pathomorphological changes of femurs were observed.

RESULT

The model control group showed much lower contents of serum Ca and P than the normal control group, but with significantly higher AKP and StrACP activity than the normal control group. The femoral head area showed reduced, narrow and sparse trabecular bones, with typical osteoporosis-like changes. Compared with the model control group, all of treated groups showed significant increase in Ca and P contents in serum, and down-regulate AKP and StrACP levels, while trabecular bones became more and wider, and densely interweaved as a reticular formation. Among them, the combination group showed the most significant effect.

CONCLUSION

Epimedii Folium and Ligustri Lucidi Fructus could effectively correct the abnormal bone metabolism and improve pathological conditions of bone tissues, so as to show the anti-osteoporosis effect. The combined application of the two drugs showed a better efficacy.

In vitro anti-inflammatory activity of Ligustrum vulgare extracts and their analytical characterization

Interest in the anti-inflammatory effects of Ligustrum vulgare L., which has been used traditionally in China and Japan prompted us to determine antiinflammatory effects of the plant's compounds in leukocytes. The leaves of L. vulgare were used to prepare a decoction which was successively extracted with organic solvents (dichloromethane (DCM), n-butanol, ethyl acetate) using liquid-liquid partition. Extracts were tested for inhibition of LTB4, resp. PGE2 biosynthesis. Each extract was evaluated for its in vitro cyclooxygenase-1/2 (COX-1/2) inhibitory activity using assays with purified COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes, as well as for their LTB4 formation inhibitory activity using an assay with activated human neutrophil granulocytes. All extracts reported inhibitory actions against COXs in comparison with the synthetic inhibitors NS-398 (IC50 = 2.6 microM) and indomethacin (IC50 = 0.9 microM). The dichloromethane extract of privet leaves showed a considerable inhibitory effect against COX-1 and COX-2 enzyme activity. The DCM extract revealed 2.7 times higher inhibitory activity against LTB4 formation in comparison with the known specific LT inhibitor zileuton (IC50 = 5.0 microM). Additionally, oleuropein and echinacoside were detected by HPLC-DAD and LC-MS in the Ligustrum vulgare leaves. Both compounds exhibited weak inhibitory activity on cyclooxygenases and leukotriene formation.

Antioxidant, antibrowning, and cytoprotective activities of Ligustrum robustum (Rxob.) Blume extract

The antioxidant, antibrowning, and cytoprotective activities of Ligustrum robustum (Rxob.) Blume extract (LRE) were investigated and the main antioxidant component was isolated and identified. With its high content of phenols and flavonoids, the LRE showed remarkable antioxidant capacity to scavenge free radicals in vitro and to inhibit oil oxidation in a peanut oil system. Moreover, LRE was observed to inhibit tyrosinase action and browning of fresh-cut apple slices effectively. Furthermore, the cytoprotective activity of LRE was evaluated in a human intestine model using Caco-2 cell lines. According to the activity-guided isolation and identification, by using column chromatography, high-performance liquid chromatography, time-of-flight mass spectrometry, and nuclear magnetic resonance analyses, ursolic acid was characterized as the main antioxidant component of LRE; it showed the strongest free radical-scavenging activity. The results suggested that L. robustum (Rxob.) Blume could be a new resource for preparing functional food and nutraceutical products for use in food and pharmacology industries.

[Active components of Ligustrum lucidum inhibiting hepatitis C virus replicase activity]

Based on previous report that the Chinese herb Ligustrum lucidum (LL) extract directly inhibited hepatitis C virus (HCV) replicase (NS5B) activity, the active components of LL extract to inhibit HCV NS5B activity and their inhibition mode were investigated in this study. LL extract was separated using ethyl acetate and thin layer chromatography (TLC). The inhibitory activity of separated fractions on HCV NS5B was analyzed by the inhibitory assay of NS5B activity. The results showed that only fractions 1 and 2 inhibited NS5B activity, and fraction 2 possessed higher inhibitory activity than fraction 1. HPLC analysis combined with inhibitory assays indicated that ursolic acid and oleanolic acid are the active components within fractions 1 and 2 to inhibit NS5B activity, separately. Moreover, oleanolic acid possessed higher inhibitory activity than ursolic acid. Further inhibition mode analysis found that both oleanolic acid and ursolic acid suppressed NS5B activity as noncompetitive inhibitors. The Ki values of ursolic acid and oleanolic acid were about 4.7 microg x mL(-1) (10 micromol x kg(-1)) and 2.5 microg x mL(-1) (5.5 micromol x kg(-1)), respectively. Taken together, these results demonstrated that oleanolic acid and ursolic acid suppressed NS5B activity as noncompetitive inhibitors, implying that the two natural products have potential value for HCV therapy.

Effects of an aqueous extract from leaves of Ligustrum vulgare on mediators of inflammation in a human neutrophils model

Leaves of Ligustrum vulgare (common privet) have been used for treatment of oropharyngeal inflammations or as antirheumatic, diuretic, and hypotensive agents in folk medicine in southern Europe. Taking into account that neutrophils are involved in the inflammation, the aim of the study was to determine the effect of an aqueous extract prepared from leaves of Ligustrum vulgare on neutrophil functions. The extract was characterized by the HPLC-DAD-MSn method. The inhibition of reactive oxygen species production by formyl-met-leu-phenylalanine- or phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate-stimulated neutrophils was determined using luminol- or lucigenin-dependent chemiluminescence. The effect on myeloperoxidase, metalloproteinase 9, and interleukin 8 production by neutrophils was measured by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Neutrophil elastase release was established spectrophotometrically. The expression of adhesion molecules on neutrophils was analyzed with flow cytometry. The main compounds detected were flavonoids, phenylpropanoids, hydroxycinnamates, and secoiridoids. The inhibition of oxidative burst by the extract was comparable in both stimuli models (formyl-met-leu-phenylalanine: IC50 = 18.2 ± 4.0 µg/mL; phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate: IC50 = 19.8 ± 3.0 µg/mL). The extract in the concentration range of 5-50 µg/mL inhibited neutrophil elastase release by 23.9-34.1 % and myeloperoxidase release by 24.2-37.4 %. The inhibitory effect on metalloproteinase 9 and interleukin 8 production was around 20 %. The extract in the highest concentration modulated the expression of L-selectin and β2 integrin. Our results partly support the traditional use of common privet leaves as an anti-inflammatory agent.

Oleanolic acid and ursolic acid: novel hepatitis C virus antivirals that inhibit NS5B activity

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infects up to 170 million people worldwide and causes significant morbidity and mortality. Unfortunately, current therapy is only curative in approximately 50% of HCV patients and has adverse side effects, which warrants the need to develop novel and effective antivirals against HCV. We have previously reported that the Chinese herb Fructus Ligustri Lucidi (FLL) directly inhibited HCV NS5B RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) activity (Kong et al., 2007). In this study, we found that the FLL aqueous extract strongly suppressed HCV replication. Further high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis combined with inhibitory assays indicates that oleanolic acid and ursolic acid are two antiviral components within FLL aqueous extract that significantly suppressed the replication of HCV genotype 1b replicon and HCV genotype 2a JFH1 virus. Moreover, oleanolic acid and ursolic acid exhibited anti-HCV activity at least partly through suppressing HCV NS5B RdRp activity as noncompetitive inhibitors. Therefore, our results for the first time demonstrated that natural products oleanolic acid and ursolic acid could be used as potential HCV antivirals that can be applied to clinic trials either as monotherapy or in combination with other HCV antivirals.

Combined treatment of Pseudomonas aeruginosa PA01 biofilm formation with the water-soluble extract of Ligustrum sinense and gentamicin sulphate

Ligustrum sinense are commonly used for their anti-inflammatory, anti-rheumatic, diuretic, and hypotensive activities in traditional Chinese medicine. To observe the effects of the combined treatment of a water-soluble extract of Ligustrum sinense (WEL) and gentamicin sulphate (GS) on Pseudomonas aeruginosa PA01, the micro-dilution method was used to determine the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) of GS. Formation of a PA01 biofilm was observed under an optical microscope after treatment with different dosages of WEL and combined treatment with GS. The MIC of WEL was 8g l(-1), and permanent activity was also observed. The effect of WEL with GS was synergistic. The motility, biomass of biofilms, and production of pyocyanin of P. aeruginosa were strongly suppressed in the presence of WEL. The conclusion can be drawn that combined antibiotics can be used to treat the contamination due to the biofilm formation caused by P. aeruginosa.

Ultrasound-assisted extraction of oleanolic acid and ursolic acid from Ligustrum lucidum Ait

Oleanolic acid and ursolic acid are the main bioactive compounds in fruit of Ligustrum lucidum Ait, which possess anti-inflammatory, antioxidative, antiprotozoal, antimutagenic and anticancer properties. In this study, the ultrasound-assisted extraction of oleanolic acid and ursolic acid from L. lucidum Ait was investigated with HPLC-photodiode array detection. Effects of several experimental parameters, such as type and concentration of extraction solvent, ratio of liquid to material, extraction temperature and extraction time, on extraction efficiencies of oleanolic acid and ursolic acid from L. lucidum were evaluated. The influence of experimental parameters on extraction efficiency of ursolic acid was more significant than that of oleanolic acid. The optimal extraction conditions were 95% ethanol, the ratio of material to liquid at 1:20, and extraction for 10 min at 40°C under ultrasonic irradiation. Under the optimal conditions, the yields of oleanolic acid and ursolic acid were 6.3 ± 0.25 and 9.8 ± 0.30 mg/g, respectively. The results indicated that the ultrasound-assisted extraction is a very useful method for the extraction of oleanolic acid and ursolic acid from L. lucidum.