Integrated network pharmacological analysis revealed that Smilax glabra Roxb. alleviates IMQ-induced psoriatic skin inflammation through regulating T cell immune response

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease characterized by dysfunctional T cells and dysregulated immune responses. Smilax glabra Roxb. (SGR) is a formulation used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for the treatment of inflammatory skin disorders, including psoriasis. This study explores the scientific basis for its use by examining the effects of SGR on T cell differentiation and insulin receptor signaling, relevant pathways implicated in the pathophysiology of psoriasis.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study investigates the therapeutic potential of SGR (a Chinese medicine) in psoriasis and its impact on T cell differentiation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

An integrated network pharmacology and bioinformatics approach was employed to elucidate the mechanisms of SGR in regulating T cell differentiation. A psoriasis mouse model was utilized to evaluate the effects of SGR on T cell subsets. Immunohistochemistry and gene expression analyses were conducted to investigate the modulation of insulin receptor signaling pathways by SGR.

RESULTS

SGR treatment effectively reset the expression of various T cell subsets in the psoriasis mouse model, suggesting its ability to regulate T cell differentiation and immune function. Furthermore, SGR treatment inhibited insulin receptor signaling and downstream pathways, including PI3K/AKT and ERK, in psoriatic skin lesions. This indicates that SGR may exert its therapeutic effects through modulation of the insulin receptor signaling pathway.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides novel insights into the therapeutic potential of SGR in psoriasis. By modulating T cell differentiation and targeting the insulin receptor signaling pathway, SGR holds promise as a potential treatment option for psoriasis.

Chemical profile, antioxidant potential and toxicity of Smilax brasiliensis Sprengel (Smilacaceae) stems

Smilax brasiliensis Sprengel is a monocotyledon of the Smilacaceae family, native to the Brazilian Cerrado, popularly known as "salsaparrilha" or "japecanga". In this study, the ethanol extract (EE) and the hexane (HEXF), dichloromethane (DCMF), ethyl acetate (ACF), and hydroethanol (HEF) fractions of the stems were obtained. The chemical composition was determined, the contents of phenolic compounds and flavonoids were quantified, and the antioxidant potential and the cytotoxic effect on Artemia salina were evaluated. Fatty acid esters, hydrocarbons, and phytosterols were identified in the HEXF analyzed by gas chromatography - mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The EE and DCMF, ACF, and HEF were analyzed by liquid chromatography coupled to a diode array detector and mass spectrometer (LC-DAD-MS), and the identified constituents included glycosylated (rutin, 3-O-β-galactopyranosyl quercetin, 3-O-β-glucopyranosyl quercetin, O-deoxyhexosyl-hexosyl quercetin, O-deoxyhexosyl-hexosyl kaempferol, O-deoxyhexosyl-hexosyl O-methyl quercetin, and others), and non-glycosylated (quercetin) flavonoids, phenylpropanoids (3-O-E-caffeoyl quinic acid, 5-O-E-caffeoyl quinic acid, O-caffeoyl shikimic acid, and others), neolignan, steroidal saponin (dioscin), and N-feruloyltyramine. The EE, DCMF, and ACF showed high total contents of phenolic compounds (112.99, 175.71, and 524.02 µg of GAE/mg, respectively), and in the ACF and DCMF a great content of flavonoids was also quantified (50.08 and 31.49 µg of QE/mg, respectively). The EE, DCMF, ACF, and HEF exhibited great antioxidant potential by DPPH (IC₅₀ 1.71 - 32.83 µg/mL) and FRAP (IC₅₀ 0.63 - 6,71 µg/mL) assays. A maximum cytotoxic activity on A. salina of 60% was observed for the DCMF (LC₅₀ = 856.17 µg/mL). This study contributes to the phytochemical study of S. brasiliensis since these compounds were identified for the first time in the stems of this species. The S. brasiliensis stems demonstrated to be a rich source of polyphenols compounds and exhibited high antioxidant potential without toxicity. Thus, extract and fractions obtained from the S. brasiliensis stems can be used in food supplements or as natural antioxidants in the food industry.

Studies on the phytochemical constituents of Smilax elegantissima Gagnep

Nine compounds were isolated and elucidated from this species, among which, two new compounds (1, 2) and seven known compounds (3-9). Their structures were determined by means of extensively spectroscopic analysis including HR-ESI-MS, ¹H NMR, ¹³C NMR, HSQC and HMBC. The bioactivities evaluation was referred to the cytotoxic assay on four human tumor cell lines of the ethanol extract, different fractions and 6 compounds. The results demonstrated that the dichloromethane fraction showed the strongest cytotoxicity, followed by the ethyl acetate fraction. Compounds 4 and 6 had significant effects on SMMC-7721 and Hela cells.

Steroidal Saponins from the Rhizomes of Smilax china and Their Inhibitory Effects on Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Proinflammatory Cytokines Expression

Four new furostanol saponins (1:  - 4: ) and a new pregane-type saponin (5: ) along with six known steroidal saponins (6:  - 11: ) were isolated from the rhizomes of Smilax china. The structures of 1:  - 5: were elucidated by extensive analysis of NMR and HR-ESI-MS data in addition to enzymatic hydrolysis and other chemical methods. Compounds 1, 4: , and 11: showed inhibitory activity against the expression of proinflammatory mediators, inducible nitric oxide synthase, interleukin-1β, interleukin-6, and tumor necrosis factor-α in lipopolysaccharide-induced RAW264.7 cells. Compound 1: , at a concentration of 20 µM, decreased the production of inducible nitric oxide synthase, interleukin-1β, interleukin-6, and tumor necrosis factor-α by 36, 62, 72, and 67%, respectively, which is comparable to that of the positive control dexamethasone.

Antimicrobial Activity of Smilax china L. Root Extracts against the Acne-Causing Bacterium, Cutibacterium acnes, and Its Active Compounds

The root of Smilax china L. is used in traditional Korean medicine. We found that the Smilax china L. root extract has strong antimicrobial activity against two Cutibacterium acnes strains (KCTC 3314 and KCTC 3320). The aim of this study was to identify the beneficial properties of Smilax china L. extracts for their potential use as active ingredients in cosmetics for the treatment of human skin acne. The high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and liquid chromatography-hybrid quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LC/QTOF/MS) methods were used to obtain the profile of secondary metabolites from the ethyl acetate-soluble fraction of the crude extract. Agar diffusion and resazurin-based broth microdilution assays were used to evaluate antimicrobial activity and minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC), respectively. Among the 24 metabolites, quercetin, resveratrol, and oxyresveratrol were the most potent compounds against Cutibacterium acnes. Minimum inhibitory concentrations of quercetin, resveratrol, and oxyresveratrol were 31.25, 125, and 250 μg/mL, respectively.

Scopolin obtained from Smilax china L. against hepatocellular carcinoma by inhibiting glycolysis: A network pharmacology and experimental study

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Smilax china L. is a well-known traditional medicinal plant. In China, it is a common anti-cancer drug that has been inherited for thousands of years. Some in vitro and in vivo studies have confirmed its potential lipid-lowering, anti-inflammatory and anti-ovarian cancer effects. However, there is no research on the material basis and mechanism of the rhizome of Smilax china L. against hepatocellular carcinoma.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To explore the material basis and mechanism of scopolin from Smilax china L. against hepatocellular carcinoma.

METHODS

The potential targets and active components of Smilax china L. against hepatocellular carcinoma were screened by transcriptomics, network pharmacology and molecular docking. Microscale Thermophoresis (MST) detection was used to verify the affinity of small molecule compounds with potential proteins and protein-protein interaction. The Extract from HepG2 cells was used to measure the expression of glycolysis-related proteins, glucose consumption and lactate production. The expression of apoptosis-related factors and glycolysis-related proteins in vivo was detected by immunohistochemistry.

RESULTS

The glycolysis-related proteins glucose-6-phosphate isomerase (GPI), glycerol-3-phosphate dehydrogenase, mitochondrial (GPD2) and phosphoglycerate kinase 2 (PGK2) screened by transcriptomics, network pharmacology showed strongly binding with scopolin by molecular docking. MST detection has also verified the affinity of scopolin with GPI and GPD2. It was the first time found that Heat shock protein HSP 90-alpha (Hsp90α) bound strongly to GPI and GPD2 in the worldwide, while scopolin was able to affect the interaction between Hsp90α and GPD2. In vitro and in vivo experiments further demonstrated that scopolin may play an anti-cancer role by affecting the stability of tumor-associated proteins. The results showed that scopolin obtained from Smilax china L. could regulate the expression of GPI, GPD2 and PGK2 and inhibit the interaction of protein-protein, reduce the energy metabolism of tumor tissue, thereby inhibit tumor growth.

CONCLUSION

Scopolin obtained from Smilax china L. plays the role of anti-hepatocellular carcinoma by regulating the expression of glycolysis proteins GPI, GPD2 and PGK2. Scopolin could affect the interaction between Hsp90α and GPD2 may provide a novel potential treatment direction for hepatocellular carcinoma.

New steroidal glycosides from the rhizomes of Smilax nipponica and their anti-inflammatory activities

Herein, five new steroidal glycosides (Smilnipponicoside A-E) with five known congeners were isolated from the ethanol extracts of the rhizomes of Smilax nipponica Miq. Their structures were established by 2D NMR spectroscopic techniques (HMBC, HSQC, ¹H,¹H-COSY and NOESY), together with mass spectrometry, then comparison with the data in literature. The new compounds were subjected to evaluate anti-inflammatory in vitro. Compounds 1, 2 and 3 were found to have modest anti-inflammatory effects through suppression of TNF-α production in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells.

Smilax glabra Roxb. flavonoids protect against pathological cardiac hypertrophy by inhibiting the Raf/MEK/ERK pathway: In vivo and in vitro studies

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Smilax glabra Roxb., the dry rhizome of Sarsaparilla, which is also known as Tu fuling (TFL) in China, is a well-known traditional CHINESE medicine that is widely used for detoxication, relieving dampness and as a diuretic. We have previously shown that the extracted TFL flavonoids (designated TFLF) possess anti-cardiac hypertrophy effects in vitro. However, the anti-cardiac hypertrophy effects of TFLF in vivo and the underlying mechanisms remain to be elucidated.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To reveal the underlying therapeutic mechanism of TFLF on cardiac hypertrophy by using transverse aortic constriction (TAC) model and cellular assays in vitro.

MATERIAL & METHODS

Cardiac hypertrophy was replicated by TAC surgery in rats or by isoprenaline treatment of rat H9C2 myocardial cells in vitro. Cardiac structure and function were evaluated by echocardiographic and hemodynamic examinations in vivo and histological analysis of tissues ex vivo. Biochemical kits and quantitative PCR were used to analyze markers of cardiac hypertrophy. Expression and phosphorylation of key proteins in the Raf/MEK/ERK pathway were quantified by Western blotting. We further confirmed our findings in H9C2 rat cardiomyocytes treated with isoprenaline and the ERK inhibitor in vitro.

RESULTS

TFLF attenuated cardiac hypertrophy and fibrosis and improved cardiac dysfunction in TAC rats. TFLF treatment induced a strong reduction in serum NT-proBNP levels. Cardiac hypertrophy marker gene (ANP, BNP and β-MHC) expression and the phosphorylation levels of c-Raf and ERK1/2 were decreased by TFLF treatment. TFLF also protected H9C2 cells from isoprenaline-induced hypertrophy in vitro via a similar molecular mechanism as that observed in the rat heart. Moreover, pretreatment with TRLF and the ERK inhibitor further inhibited the mRNA overexpression of hypertrophic genes in vitro.

CONCLUSIONS

TFLFs may protect against pathological cardiac hypertrophy via negative regulation of the Raf/MEK/ERK pathway. Thus, TFLFs are implicated as a potential pharmacological agent for treating cardiac hypertrophy in clinical practice.

Phytotoxic and antioxidant effects of dichloromethane fraction of Smilax Brasiliensis Sprengel

Dichloromethane (DCM) fraction and sub-fractions obtained from Smilax brasiliensis leaves were examined in order to determine their phytotoxic and antioxidant effects. The dichloromethane fraction was submitted to a preparative layer chromatography leading to seven sub-fractions (DCM1-DCM7). Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) was performed on the dichloromethane sub-fractions. The DCM sub-fractions presented phytotoxic potential; at a concentration of 125 µg per plate, DCM6 and DCM4 showed the strongest results on Lactuca sativa and Allium cepa, respectively. The DCM fraction and DCM4 sub-fraction were more effective than 2,6-di-tert-butyl-4-methylphenol (BHT) at scavenging the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical. Analysis by GC-MS showed the presence of methyl palmitate (33.05%) in DCM4 and methyl palmitate (17.29%) and methyl oleate (50.96%) in DCM6, suggesting that the activities exhibited by the sub-fractions may be attributed, at least partially, to these major compounds. These results indicate that the DCM sub-fractions of S. brasiliensis could be used as natural herbicides and antioxidants.

Acid hydrolysis of saponins extracted in tincture

BACKGROUND

Saponins are secondary metabolites from plants added to shampoos and beverages to make them foam, and the sapogenins released from them upon acid hydrolysis are commonly used as starting materials for steroidal drugs. However, current methods embed the saponin in a thick "gum" material consisting of multiple impurities. This gum limits access to the saponin, reducing the efficiency of hydrolysis and requiring large amounts of heat, organic solvents and effort to recover the sapogenin. For centuries, herbalists have been making tinctures by soaking plant materials at room temperature, in mixtures of alcohol and water. Many herbal tinctures contain saponins floating freely in solution, gum free. The saponin from sarsaparilla (Smilax spp), sarsasaponin, yields the sapogenin, sarsasapogenin, upon acid hydrolysis. The retail price of sarsasapogenin is very high but would be lower if the "gum problem" could be avoided.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We incubated sarsaparilla tincture under different conditions of temperature, acidity and duration then used quantitative nuclear magnetic resonance (qNMR) to measure the amount of sarsasapogenin produced by hydrolysis as well as the amount of its epimer, smilagenin.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Most, if not all the sarsasaponin in sarsaparilla root powder is extracted into a solution of 45% ethanol (55% water) at room temperature and stays suspended without formation of any particles (gum). Acid hydrolysis of the saponin in this solution is very efficient, approaching 100%. The sarsasapogenin released by hydrolysis and the smilagenin produced by its epimerisation, migrate into the chloroform phase.

CONCLUSION

Sarsaparilla saponin diffuses into and disperses in a solution of alcohol:water (45:55) at room temperature. Hydrolysis of saponins in tincture provides a simple, inexpensive and environmentally friendly alternative.

A Comparison of Solubility, Stability, and Bioavailability between Astilbin and Neoastilbin Isolated from Smilax glabra Rhizoma

Astilbin and neoastilbin are two flavonoid stereoisomers. In the present study, their solubility, stability, and bioavailability were compared in a rat. The results revealed that the water solubility of astilbin and neoastilbin was 132.72 μg/mL and 217.16 μg/mL, respectively. The oil–water distribution coefficient (log P) of astilbin and neoastilbin in simulated gastric fluid (SGF) was 1.57 and 1.39, and in simulated intestinal fluid (SIF) was 1.09 and 0.98, respectively. In SIF, about 78.6% astilbin remained after 4 h of incubation at 37 °C, while this value was 88.3% for neoastilbin. Most of the degraded astilbin and neoastilbin were isomerized into their cis-trans-isomer, namely neoisoastilbin and isoastilbin, respectively, and the decomposed parts were rare. For bioavailability comparison in a rat, an HPLC method for trace amounts of astilbin and neoastilbin determination in plasma was developed, and the pretreatment of plasma was optimized. A pharmacokinetic study showed that the absolute bioavailability of astilbin and neoastilbin in a rat showed no significant difference with values of 0.30% and 0.28%, respectively.

Lei-gong-gen formula granule attenuates hyperlipidemia in rats via cGMP-PKG signaling pathway

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Lei-gong-gen formula granule (LFG) is a folk prescription derived from Zhuang nationality, the largest ethnic minority among the 56 nationalities in China. It is composed of three herbs, namely Centella asiatica (L.) Urb., Eclipta prostrata (L.) L., Smilax glabra Roxb. It has been widely used as health protection tea for many years to prevent cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases such as hyperlipidemia and hypertension.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study validated the lipid-lowering effect of LFG in a hyperlipidemia rat model. Then we employed network pharmacology and molecular biological approach to identify the active ingredients of LFG, corresponding targets, and its anti-hyperlipidemia mechanisms.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Hyperlipidemia rat model was established by feeding male Sprague-Dawley rats with high-fat diet for two weeks. LFG (two doses of 10 and 20 g/kg) was administered orally to hyperlipidemia rat model for 4 weeks, twice per day. Serum levels of total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) were monitored in rats pre and post-treatment. Hematoxylin-eosin staining was applied to observe the pathology and lipid accumulation of liver. We then performed network pharmacology analysis to predict the ingredients, their associated targets, and hyperlipidemia associated targets. Pathway analysis with significant genes was carried out using KEGG pathway. These genes and proteins intersectioned between compound targets and hyperlipidemia targets were further verified with samples from hyperlipidemia rats treated with LFG using Real-time RT-PCR and Western Blot.

RESULTS

LFG attenuated hyperlipidemia in rat model, and this was characterized with decreased serum levels of TC, LDL-C, liver wet weight, and liver index. LFG alleviated the hepatic steatosis in hyperlipidemia rats. Network pharmacology analysis identified 53 bioactive ingredients from LFG formula (three herbs), which link to 765 potential targets. 53 hyperlipidemia associated genes were retrieved from public databases. There were 10 common genes between ingredients-targets and hyperlipidemia associated genes, which linked to 20 bioactive ingredients. Among these 10 genes, 3 of them were validated to be involved in LFG's anti-hyperlipidemia effect using Real-time RT-PCR, namely ADRB2 encoding beta-2 adrenergic receptor, NOS3 encoding nitric oxide synthase 3, LDLR encoding low-density lipoprotein receptor. The cGMP-PKG signaling pathway was enriched for hyperlipidemia after pharmacology network analysis with ADRB2, NOS3, and LDLR. Interestingly, expression of cGMP-dependent protein kinase (PKG) was downregulated in hyperlipidemia rat after LFG treatment. Molecular docking study further supported that ferulic acid, histidine, p-hydroxybenzoic acid, and linalool were potential active ingredients for LFG's anti-hyperlipidemia effect. LC-MS/MS analysis confirmed that ferulic acid and p-hydroxybenzoic acid were active ingredients of LFG.

CONCLUSION

LFG exhibited the lipid-lowering effect, which might be attributed to downregulating ADRB2 and NOS3, and upregulating LDLR through the cGMP-PKG signaling pathway in hyperlipidemia rat. Ferulic acid and p-hydroxybenzoic acid might be the underlying active ingredients which affect the potential targets for their anti-hyperlipidemia effect.

Smilax china leaf extracts suppress pro-inflammatory adhesion response in human umbilical vein endothelial cells and proliferation of HeLa cells

Objective: The objective of this study was to investigate the anti-inflammatory and anticancer effects of the leaves of Smilax china.Methodology: The aqueous extract was examined for its anti-inflammatory effects on tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α-induced inflammation in HUVECs whereas the aqueous (water), ethyl acetate (EA), butanol (B) and methylene chloride (MC) extracts were examined for their anticancer effect on HeLa cells.Results: The aqueous extract suppressed the (TNF)-α-induced expression of ICAM-1, VCAM-1 and TNF-R1 and attenuated the expression of MCP-1, MMP-9, NF-kB and IFN-γ. The MC extract suppressed the proliferation of HeLa cells at all doses employed (50, 150, and 300 µg/ml). The EA extract demonstrated appreciable anti-proliferative effect whereas the BuOH extract demonstrated mild anti-proliferative activity. The aqueous extract did not show any significant anti-proliferative effect. None of the extracts were toxic to the normal cells (HUVECs).Conclusion: Smilax china leaf extracts possess significant anti-inflammatory and anticancer effects.

Discovery of the active compounds of Smilacis Glabrae Rhizoma by utilizing the relationship between the individual differences in blood drug concentration and the pharmacological effect in rats

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

This study addresses the rapid discovery of the active compounds (the original constituents and/or metabolites) of a traditional Chinese drug, Smilacis Glabrae Rhizoma (SGR).

AIM OF THE STUDY

The aim of this study was to develop a new method to find out the active compounds of traditional drugs in vivo.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A method was established to discover and identify the potential active compounds in drug-containing plasma from rats that were orally administered SGR extract, utilizing the relationship between the individual differences in blood drug concentrations in the rats and the resulting differences in pharmacological effect, and the method was denoted as the RID-PE method. For this method, we used high-performance liquid chromatography with a diode array detector combined with electrospray ionization ion trap time-of-flight multistage mass spectrometry (LC-MSⁿ) to identify the compounds (the original constituents and metabolites) and to determine the peak areas of the compounds in drug-containing plasma following SGR treatment. The anti-inflammatory effect of SGR was evaluated using a carrageenan-induced inflammatory rat model. According to the percent inhibition of paw edema in each model rat (14 rats total) orally administered SGR extract, the plasma samples from the rats were sorted and divided into 7 groups. Each group consisted of two plasma samples, and their percent inhibition of paw edema were similar to each other. We performed an LC-MSⁿ analysis on 3 plasma groups, which showed large differences in the inhibition rates, with percent inhibitions of 92.7%, 72.4% and 38.4%. The correlation coefficients (r) between the peak area of each compound and the pharmacological effect (inhibition ratio) of SGR in the three groups were analyzed using SPSS software. When the correlation coefficients of the compounds are greater than 0.8 (0.8 < r ≤1), these compounds are strongly and positively correlated with anti-inflammatory activity, making them potential anti-inflammatory active compounds.

RESULTS

Fifty-eight potential anti-inflammatory compounds (0.8 < r ≤ 1) from SGR were discovered in model rat plasma using the RID-PE method, 47 of which were considered to be new potentially anti-inflammatory compounds. Among these compounds, four original constituents and 5 isomers of potential anti-inflammatory metabolites were validated to have significant anti-inflammatory effects, and they included astilbin, syringic acid, catechin, coumalic acid, resveratrol-3'-O-glucuronide (RG, isomer of M2 or M3), 3'-O-methyl-(+)-epicatechin-4'-O-glucuronide (CA-1, isomer of M16), 4'-O-methyl-(+)-epicatechin-3'-O-glucuronide (CA-2, isomer of M16), 4'-O-methyl-(+)-epicatechin-7-O-glucuronide (CA-3, isomer of M16) and 3'-O-methyl-(+)-epicatechin-7-O-glucuronide (CA-4, isomer of M16). In addition, four isomers (CA-1-CA-4) were reported to have anti-inflammatory effects for the first time, and CA-3 was a new compound.

CONCLUSIONS

The RID-PE method can be used to discover and identify the active constituents and metabolites of SGR systematically and in vivo. Furthermore, these findings enhance our understanding of the metabolism and effective forms of SGR.

Endothelium-dependent vasodilatory effect of Smilax china Linn. water extract via PI3K/Akt signaling

Objective: The objective of this study was to investigate the pharmacological effect of Smilax china Linn. water extract (SCLWE) on vascular relaxation and its underlying biochemical mechanisms.Methodology: Isolated rat aortic rings were pre-constricted with phenylephrine (PE). This was followed by the cumulative addition of SCLWE. The effect of endothelial nitric oxide and PI3K/Akt on the SCLWE-induced vasodilation was investigated by the pretreatment of endothelium-intact aortic strips with or without N^G-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME) or wortmanin before constriction with PE.Results: Treatment of PE (1 μM)-pre-contracted aortic strips with SCLWE induced endothelium-dependent relaxation, which was attenuated by L-NAME and wortmanin. Further studies using HUVECs indicated that nitrite production, eNOS and PI3K/PKB (Akt) phosphorylations were increased after exposure to SCLWE but was attenuated by pretreatment with wortmanin.Conclusion: These results suggest that SCLWE induces vasodilation by augmenting NO production in endothelial cells via PI3K/Akt-dependent eNOS phosphorylation.

Smilax glabra Roxb. Inhibits Collagen Induced Adhesion and Migration of PC3 and LNCaP Prostate Cancer Cells through the Inhibition of Beta 1 Integrin Expression

Smilax glabra Roxb. (SGR) has been used as a traditional medicine for brucellosis and syphilis. In this study, we investigated whether nontoxicological levels of water extract of SGR (WESGR) are effective for suppressing steps in the progression of prostate cancer, such as collagen-mediated migration and adhesion and identified the target molecule responsible for such effects. We found that nontoxicological levels of WESGR did not attenuate PC3 and LNCaP cell adhesion to serum but did significantly do so with collagen. In addition, using the Boyden chamber assay, we found that nontoxicological levels of WESGR did not inhibit the migration of PC3 and LNCaP cells to a serum-coated area but did significantly attenuate migration to a collagen-coated area. Interestingly, the expression of α2β1 integrin, a known receptor of collagen, was not affected by ectopic administration of WESGR. However, WESGR significantly attenuated the expression of β1 integrin, but not α2 integrin when PC3 and LNCaP cells were placed on a collagen-coated plate, resulting in attenuation of focal adherent kinase phosphorylation. Finally, 5-O-caffeoylquinic acid was determined as a functional single component which is responsible for antiprostate cancer effects of WESGR. Taken together, our results suggest a novel molecular mechanism for WESGR-mediated antiprostate cancer effects at particular steps such as with migration and adhesion to collagen, and it could provide the possibility of therapeutic use of WESGR against prostate cancer progression.

Assessment of allelopathic, cytotoxic, genotoxic and antigenotoxic potential of Smilax brasiliensis Sprengel leaves

Smilax brasiliensis (Smilacaceae) is a native Brazilian plant found in the Cerrado biome and commonly used in folk medicine. The aim of this study was to evaluate the allelopathic, cytotoxic, genotoxic, and antigenotoxic potential of extract and fractions of Smilax brasiliensis leaves. Quercetin and rutin isomers were observed in the subfractions. The dichloromethane fraction (1000 μg/mL) decreased lettuce (Lactuca sativa) seed vigor, while and ethyl acetate and hydromethanol fractions (1000 μg/mL) affected the germination, and quercetin and rutin affected the vigor and germination of onion seeds. The extract, fractions, quercetin, and rutin inhibited or promoted lettuce hypocotyl and radicle growth. The extract and fractions inhibited onion hypocotyl growth at all concentrations. With regards to radicle growth, the results were diversified: growth was either inhibited or promoted. Rutin and quercetin inhibited onion hypocotyl and radicle growth at all concentrations. The extract and fractions of Smilax brasiliensis, rutin, and quercetin did not cause cytotoxic effect evaluated by mitotic index. The extract and fractions showed genotoxic effects. Quercetin and rutin did not cause genotoxic effects. On the other hand, the extract and fractions showed antigenotoxic effects at all tested concentrations, where they were able to revert chromosomal abnormalities caused by glyphosate. However, additional studies are required to evaluate the possible use of the S. brasiliensis leaf methanol extract and fractions as natural sources of bioherbicides.

Investigation of the preliminary mechanism of action for the acute anti-inflammatory activity of the methanol extract of Smilax ornata Lem

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

In folkloric medicine the dried rhizome of the Jamaican sarsaparilla (Smilax ornate Lem.), is given as a decoction to treat chronic rheumatism and rheumatoid arthritis. This particular claim has been scientifically validated; however, the mechanism for its anti-inflammatory activity is still unknown and hence, it forms the reason for this investigation.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study is to investigate the mechanism of the anti-inflammatory activity of the methanol extract of Smilax ornate Lem.

METHOD

The methanol extract was prepared using the soxhlet apparatus. The preliminary mechanism of action was investigated using models of oedema induced by histamine, bradykinin and prostaglandin E₂.

RESULTS

For the histamine-induced oedema model, the methanol extract (400 mg/kg) reduced the oedema formation, however, it was not significant (P > 0.05). For the bradykinin-induced oedema model, the methanol extract (400 mg/kg) exhibited significant (P < 0.05) anti-inflammatory activity when compared with that of the control (saline) group, with an onset on 60 min and a duration of 2 h. For the prostaglandin-induced oedema model, the methanol extract (400 mg/kg) exhibited significant (P < 0.05) anti-inflammatory activity when compared with that of its control group, with an onset on 120 min and a duration of 1.5 h.

CONCLUSION

The methanol extract of Smilax ornata Lem. produced significant anti-inflammatory activity in the bradykinin-induced and prostaglandin-induced oedema models. It is possible that the mechanism by which it acts is by reducing the concentration or blocking the action of these mediators.

In vitro anti-inflammatory properties of Smilax campestris aqueous extract in human macrophages, and characterization of its flavonoid profile

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Extracts of Smilax campestris Griseb (Smilacaceae) have been employed in the treatment of several inflammatory diseases as a traditional herbal medicine. However, the cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in the observed effects remain elusive. Macrophages are known to play a central role in inflammatory responses. These cells are activated in response to a diversity of danger signals and produce several mediators of inflammation that eventually regulate the immune response. For all the above mentioned, scientific evidence is required to support the popular use of S. campestris.

AIM OF THE STUDY

We aimed to investigate the anti-inflammatory effect of S. campestris aqueous extract (SME) in activated THP-1 human macrophages, on the production of some mediators of inflammation and oxidative stress in order to provide scientific support for its popular use.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The characterization of SME was assessed by HPLC-MS/MS. The production of the pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines was evaluated by ELISA. The activity of metalloproteases was evaluated by zymography. The subcellular localization of the NF-κB transcription factor was analysed by Western blot. The superoxide anion and glutathione levels were assessed by flow cytometry. The cytotoxicity induced by SME in THP-1 macrophages was also investigated by the LDH release test.

RESULTS

In the present study, we have identified catechin and glycosylated derivatives of quercetin (quercetin-3-O-glucoside, quercetin-3-O-galactoside, rutin and quercetin-3-rhamnoside) as major components of the aqueous SME. We found that SME significantly decreased the production of the pro-inflammatory cytokines tumour necrosis factor (TNF)- α, interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, IL-8 and monocyte chemoattractant protein (MCP)-1 and the activity of the metalloproteinase (MMP)-9, in lipopolysaccharide-activated macrophages derived from the monocytic cell line THP-1. Furthermore, SME diminished the expression of NF-κB p65 subunit in the nuclear fraction. In addition, SME decreased the production of superoxide anion in THP-1 macrophages, without altering the levels of reduced glutathione.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that SME exerts its anti-inflammatory effects in human activated macrophages by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, matrix metalloproteinases and the NF-κB transcription factor pathway along with a reduction of oxidative stress mediators. Moreover, catechin and glycosylated derivatives of were identified by HPLC-MS/MS in SME. Our findings provide scientific support for the traditional use of the S. campestris extracts.

Protective effects of Rhizoma smilacis glabrae extracts on potassium oxonate- and monosodium urate-induced hyperuricemia and gout in mice

BACKGROUND

Rhizoma smilacis glabrae (RSG, tufuling) has been widely used in traditional Chinese medicine for deoxidation, dampness relief, and easing joint movement. The chemical composition of RSG has been systematically confirmed, and some of its compounds have been revealed to possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, hypouricemic, and hepatoprotective effects.

PURPOSE

We aimed to clarify whether a RSG extract attenuates hyperuricemia, paw edema, and renal injury in mice with potassium oxonate (PO)- and monosodium urate (MSU)-induced chronic hyperuricemia and gout.

METHODS

RSG water extract was obtained and analyzed by HPLC-DAD-MS/MS. To establish a murine model with chronic hyperuricemia and gout, PO was orally administered daily from day 0 to day 24, whereas MSU was injected into the tibiotarsal joint on day 21. The mice in the drug intervention groups were treated once daily with doses of allopurinol or RSG extract from day 21 to day 24. The diameter of the ankle joints was measured with calipers. Serum TNF-α and IL-1β concentrations, hepatic XOD activity, and uric acid, creatinine, and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels were also determined. The right kidney and articular cavities were fixed, cut into sections, and stained with hematoxylin and eosin.

RESULTS

Nine compounds in the RSG water extract were unambiguously identified as 5-O-caffeoylshikimic acid, neoastilbin, astilbin, taxifolin, neoisoastilbin, isoastilbin, engeletin, isoengeletin, and trans-resveratrol. The RSGE treatment dose-dependently reduced PO- and MSU-induced paw edema, serum TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-12, uric acid, and BUN, while significantly elevated serum IL-10, urinary uric acid and creatinine levels as compared with the respective values in the hyperuricemic and gouty mice group (vehicle group). Moreover, the hepatic XOD activity was dose-dependently reduced by the RSGE treatment. In addition, RSGE treatment not only ameliorated the infiltration of inflammatory cells, tubular dilation and vacuole formation in renal tubular, but also improved the synovial hyperplasia, reduced inflammatory cells infiltration into the synovium, and diminished the erosive damage in the cartilage.

CONCLUSION

The murine model with chronic hyperuricemia and gout be built in present study is consistent with the clinical symptoms of patients with long-standing hyperuricemia and acute gouty arthritis. RSG water extract has potent efficacy in ameliorating murine hyperuricemia and gout induced by PO and MSU.

Cell cycle, energy metabolism and DNA repair pathways in cancer cells are suppressed by Compound Kushen Injection

BACKGROUND

In this report we examine candidate pathways perturbed by Compound Kushen Injection (CKI), a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) that we have previously shown to alter the gene expression patterns of multiple pathways and induce apoptosis in cancer cells.

METHODS

We have measured protein levels in Hep G2 and MDA-MB-231 cells for genes in the cell cycle pathway, DNA repair pathway and DNA double strand breaks (DSBs) previously shown to have altered expression by CKI. We have also examined energy metabolism by measuring [ADP]/[ATP] ratio (cell energy charge), lactate production and glucose consumption. Our results demonstrate that CKI can suppress protein levels for cell cycle regulatory proteins and DNA repair while increasing the level of DSBs. We also show that energy metabolism is reduced based on reduced glucose consumption and reduced cellular energy charge.

RESULTS

Our results validate these pathways as important targets for CKI. We also examined the effect of the major alkaloid component of CKI, oxymatrine and determined that it had no effect on DSBs, a small effect on the cell cycle and increased the cell energy charge.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results indicate that CKI likely acts through the effect of multiple compounds on multiple targets where the observed phenotype is the integration of these effects and synergistic interactions.

Anti-inflammatory furostanol saponins from the rhizomes of Smilax china L

Seven new furostanol saponins (1-7), chongrenosides A-G, were isolated from the rhizomes of Smilax china L., together with nine known furostanol saponins (8-16). The structures of the new furostanol saponins (1-7) were elucidated by extensive spectroscopic data analyses (1D and 2D NMR, HRESIMS) and chemical evidence. Compounds 1-6 and 8-16 were evaluated for TNF-α mRNA expression inhibitory activity on LPS induced RAW264.7 cells. Of them, 1, 4, 6, and 11 inhibited the TNF-α mRNA expression by 88%, 87%, 67%, and 93%, respectively, at the concentration of 10 µM.

[Two new compounds from Smilax glaucochina]

A new sesquiterpenes named glaucochinarol A (1) and a new phenylpropane glycoside named glcacochinaside A (2), together with six known ones, including trichothecolone (3), β-D-(6-O-trans-feruloyl)fructofuranosyl-α-D-O-glucopyranoisde (4), 3,4,5-trimethoxyphenyl-β-D-glucopyranoside (5), (4R)-p-menth-1-ene-7,8-diol-7-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (6), naringenin (7), and emodin-8-O-β-glucoside (8) were isolated from smilax glaucochina warb. Their structures were elucidated on the basis of NMR, MS and published data. Compounds 3-8 were isolated from the species for this first time.

New furostanol saponins with anti-inflammatory and cytotoxic activities from the rhizomes of Smilax davidiana

Seven new furostanol saponins have been isolated from the rhizomes of Smilax davidiana. Their structures were established by 2D NMR spectroscopic techniques (¹H,¹H-COSY, NOESY, HSQC and HMBC), mass spectrometry and comparison with the literature. The isolated compounds were subjected to evaluate anti-inflammatory and cytotoxic activities in vitro. Compounds 3, 5 and 7 were found to have modest anti-inflammatory effects through suppression of IL-1β production and promote the expression of IL-10 in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells. Davidianoside F (6) showed activity against MCF-7 and HELA cell lines at the concentration of 10.2µM and 4.3µM, respectively.

Six new furostanol glycosides from Smilax glauco-china and their cytotoxic activity

Six new steroidal saponins, namely glauco-chinaosides A-F, and one known compound were isolated from the tubers of Smilax glauco-china. Their structures were elucidated by a combination of spectroscopic analysis and hydrolysis followed by spectral and chromatographic analysis. Compounds 1-7 were tested in vitro for their cytotoxic activities against four human tumor cell lines (SH-SY5Y, SGC-7901, HCT-116, and Lovo). Compounds 1, 2, and 5 exhibited cytotoxic activity against SGC-7901, with IC₅₀ values of 2.7, 11.5, and 6.8 μM, respectively.

Phenolic Compounds from the Rhizomes of Smilax china L. and Their Anti-Inflammatory Activity

A new triflavanoid, kandelin B-5 (1), was isolated from the rhizomes of Smilax china L., together with six known phenylpropanoid substituted flavan-3-ols (2–7), nine flavonoids (8–16), two stilbenoids (17, 18), and two other compounds (19, 20). The structure of compound 1 was determined on the basis of 1D, 2D NMR and HR-ESI-MS data, as well as chemical method. Compounds 2–5, 8–12, 15, 17, and 19 were evaluated for anti-inflammatory activity. Only compounds 10, 15 and 17 showed slightly IL-1β expression inhibitory activities on LPS induced THP-1 cells, with inhibition rate of 15.8%, 37.3%, and 35.8%, respectively, at concentration of 50 μg/mL.

Chemical Constituents of Smilax china L. Stems and Their Inhibitory Activities against Glycation, Aldose Reductase, α-Glucosidase, and Lipase

The search for natural inhibitors with anti-diabetes properties has gained increasing attention. Among four selected Smilacaceae family plants, Smilax china L. stems (SCS) showed significant in vitro anti-glycation and rat lens aldose reductase inhibitory activities. Bioactivity-guided isolation was performed with SCS and four solvent fractions were obtained, which in turn yielded 10 compounds, including one phenolic acid, three chlorogenic acids, four flavonoids, one stilbene, and one phenylpropanoid glycoside; their structures were elucidated using nuclear magnetic resonance and mass spectrometry. All solvent fractions, isolated compounds, and stem extracts from plants sourced from six different provinces of South Korea were next tested for their inhibitory effects against advanced glycation end products, as well as aldose reductase. α-Glucosidase, and lipase assays were also performed on the fractions and compounds. Since compounds 3, 4, 6, and 8 appeared to be the superior inhibitors among the tested compounds, a comparative study was performed via high-performance liquid chromatography with photodiode array detection using a self-developed analysis method to confirm the relationship between the quantity and bioactivity of the compounds in each extract. The findings of this study demonstrate the potent therapeutic efficacy of SCS and its potential use as a cost-effective natural alternative medicine against type 2 diabetes and its complications.

Determination of Lead in Smilax luzonensis Herbal Preparations in Malaysia

The DCA (Drug Control Authority) of Malaysia implemented the phase 3 registration of traditional medicines on 1 January 1992. As such, a total of 100 products in various pharmaceutical dosage forms of a herbal preparation containing Smilax luzonensis, either single or combined preparations, were analyzed for the presence of lead, using atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Results showed that 14% of the above products possessed 10.02 to 21.21 ppm of lead, and, therefore, they failed to comply with the quality requirement for traditional medicines in Malaysia (<10 ppm). Although this study showed that 86% of the products complied with the quality requirement for traditional medicines in Malaysia pertaining to lead, they cannot be assumed safe from lead contamination because of batch-to-batch inconsistency.

Hypouricemic effect of allopurinol are improved by Pallidifloside D based on the uric acid metabolism enzymes PRPS, HGPRT and PRPPAT

Allopurinol is a commonly used medication to treat hyperuricemia and its complications. Pallidifloside D, a saponin glycoside constituent from the total saponins of Smilax riparia, had been proved to enhanced hypouricemic effect of allopurinol based on uric acid metabolism enzyme XOD. In this study, we evaluated whether Pallidifloside D (5mg/kg) enhanced hypouricemic effect of allopurinol (5mg/kg) related to others uric acid metabolism enzymes such as PRPS, HGPRT and PRPPAT. We found that, compared with allopurinol alone, the combination of allopurinol and Pallidifloside D significantly up-regulated HGPRT mRNA expression and down-regulated the mRNA expression of PRPS and PRPPAT in PC12 cells (all P<0.01). These results strongly suggest that hypouricemic effect of allopurinol are improved by Pallidifloside D via numerous mechanisms and our data may have a potential value in clinical practice in the treatment of gout and other hyperuricemic conditions.

Antioxidant and cytotoxic activity of stems of Smilax zeylanica in vitro

BACKGROUND

Plant-derived phytochemicals consisting of phenols and flavonoids possess antioxidant properties, eventually rendering a lucrative tool to scavenge reactive oxygen species. This study was carried out to evaluate in vitro antioxidant and cytotoxic potential of methanolic extract and petroleum ether extracts of Smilax zeylanica L. stems.

METHODS

Phytochemical screening was done following standard procedures. Antioxidant activity was tested using several in vitro assays, viz., 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay, NO assay, H2O2 assay, CUPRAC assay, FRAP assay and total antioxidant capacity assay. Total phenol and flavonoid contents were determined by colorimetric method. Brine shrimp lethality and MTT cell viability assays were used for cytotoxic potential.

RESULTS

Preliminary phytochemical study revealed the presence of flavonoids and glycosides in both extracts. Methanolic extract was found to possess stronger antioxidant potential than petroleum ether extracts in all assays. The IC50 value of methanolic extract was 29.14±0.39 μg/mL, 120.30±3.32 μg/mL and 78.41±5.53 μg/mL in DPPH assay, NO assay and H2O2 assay, respectively. Likewise, total phenol [56.78 mg/g gallic acid (GAE)] and flovonoid [125.69 mg/g quercetin equivalents (QE)] were higher in methanolic extract. In cytotoxicity assays, petroleum ether extract showed stronger activity in both brine shrimp lethality (LC50 2.85±0.13 μg/mL) and MTT cell viability assay (IC50 15.49±1.18 μg/mL).

CONCLUSIONS

These findings demonstrate that methanolic extracts could be considered as potential sources of natural antioxidant, whereas petroleum ether extracts could be explored for promising anticancer molecules.

PTP1B, α-glucosidase, and DPP-IV inhibitory effects for chromene derivatives from the leaves of Smilax china L

Two new flavonoids, bismilachinone (11) and smilachinin (14), were isolated from the leaves of Smilax china L. together with 14 known compounds. Their structures were elucidated using spectroscopic methods. The PTP1B, α-glucosidase, and DPP-IV inhibitory activities of compounds 1-16 were evaluated at the molecular level. Among them, compounds 4, 7, and 10 showed moderate DPP-IV inhibitory activities with IC50 values of 20.81, 33.12, and 32.93 μM, respectively. Compounds 3, 4, 6, 11, 12, and 16 showed strong PTP1B inhibitory activities, with respective IC50 values of 7.62, 10.80, 0.92, 2.68, 9.77, and 24.17 μM compared with the IC50 value for the positive control (ursolic acid: IC50 = 1.21 μM). Compounds 2-7, 11, 12, 15, and 16 showed potent α-glucosidase inhibitory activities, with respective IC50 values of 8.70, 81.66, 35.11, 35.92, 7.99, 26.28, 11.28, 62.68, 44.32, and 70.12 μM. The positive control, acarbose, displayed an IC50 value of 175.84 μM. In the kinetic study for the PTP1B enzyme, compounds 6, 11, and 12 displayed competitive inhibition with Ki values of 3.20, 8.56, and 5.86 μM, respectively. Compounds 3, 4, and 16 showed noncompetitive inhibition with Ki values of 18.75, 5.95, and 22.86 μM, respectively. Molecular docking study for the competitive inhibitors (6, 11, and 12) radically corroborates the binding affinities and inhibition of PTP1B enzymes. These results indicated that the leaves of Smilax china L. may contain compounds with anti-diabetic activity.

[Studies on chemical constituents of rhizomes of Smilax trinervula]

The chemical constituents were separated and purified from the 70% ethanol extract of Smilax trinervulaby various chromatographic methods including silica gel, Sephadex LH-20, MCI and preparative HPLC. Their structures were obtained and identified by analysis of the spectroscopic data. Compounds 1-11 were separated from this genus for the first time. Compound 12 was obtained from S. trinervula for the first time.

[Effects of Climatic Factors on Contents of Major Medical Components in Smilax china from Different Regions in Western Hunan]

OBJECTIVE

To study the impact of climatic factors on the major medical component in Smilax china, and to supply a scientific and standard operation protocol on the introduction and cultivation.

METHODS

Detect the content of major medical components, such as baicalin and astibin, in Smilax china from eight counties of Xiangxi Autonomous Prefecture. And establish their relationship with annual average temperature, Jan average temp, Jul average temp, valid accumulative temp (≥ 10 degress C), annual maximum temp, annual minimum temp, annual precipitation, annual sunshine amount, non-frost period and relative humidity by using the methods of partial least squares regression analysis (PLS).

RESULTS

Relative humidity, annual minimum temp and annual precipitation are the dominant factors. Annual minimum temp, annual average temp and valid accumulative temp were significantly correlated to the content of major medical components, thus, relative humidity, annual precipitation and non-frost period were negatively related to them.

CONCLUSION

This study provides a scientific basis for resources protection,introduction and cultivation of Smilax china.

Medicinal effect and its JP2/RyR2-based mechanism of Smilax glabra flavonoids on angiotensin II-induced hypertrophy model of cardiomyocytes

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Rhizome and root of Smilax glabra Roxb (Liliaceae family) is a widely used traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) named Tu-fu-ling (TFL) for cardiac disease therapy. The TFL flavonoids (TFLF) has been extracted and proven to possess the anti-cardiac hypertrophy effect in our previous reports. Such effect could be mediated by the modulation of intracellular Ca(2+) flux in myocardial cells, in which junctophilin-2 (JP2) and ryanodine receptor 2 (RyR2) play an important role. However, its mechanism of the anti-cardiac hypertrophy effect remains unclarified.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

2μmol/L Ang II was applied to induce hypertrophy model of rat primary cardiomyocytes. After treatment of TFLF at 0.25, 0.5 and 1.0mg/ml, the cell size was microscopic measured, and the protein and mRNA expressions of JP2 and RyR2 in cardiomyocytes were estimated by immunofluorescence imaging, ELISA and real-time PCR assay.

RESULTS

Obvious hypertrophy of cardiomyocytes was induced by Ang II but reversed by TFLF from 0.5 to 1.0mg/ml. The protein and mRNA expressions of JP2 and RyR2 in cardiomyocytes were also inhibited by Ang II but restored by TFLF at its dose range. Such effect of TFLF was exerted at a dose dependent manner, which was even better than that of verapamil.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings may evidence the correlation between JP2/RyR2 and myocardiac hypertrophy, and indicate the JP2/RyR2-mediated anti-hypertrophy mechanism of TFLF for the first time. It deserves to be developed as a promising TCM candidate of new drug for myocardial hypertrophy treatment.

[Study on scavenging activity to DPPH free radical of different polarity components in Guizhou Miao medicine "bod zangd dak"]

The paper is aimed to search more natural plant antioxidants and further research and develop new medicinal plant resources in Guizhou. The Guizhou special miao medicine "bod zangd dak" was extracted with 60% ethanol. The antioxidant activity of the different polarity components separated from the extract was tested by DPPH method with ascorbic acid as positive control. The results showed that the IC50 of the different polarity components was as following: ascorbic acid (0.033 4 g x L(-1)) < ethyl acetate components (0.052 3 g x L(-1)) < total tannins components (0.054 9 g x L(-1)) < 60% ethanol extraction components (0.076 7 g x L(-1)) < butanol extraction components (0.110 g x L(-1)) < water-soluble polysaccharides components (0.168 g x L(-1)) < water extraction components (0.174 g x L(-1)) < water components after extraction (0.226 g x L(-1)) < total polysaccharides components (0.645 g x L(-1)). It is concluded that the different polarity components have different free radical scavenging activity and that provides a scientific basis for further search of the active ingredients and the activive mechanism.

Anti-Allergic Activities of Smilax glabra Rhizome Extracts and Its Isolated Compounds

BACKGROUND

The rhizomes of Smilax glabra (SG) has long been used in Traditional Chinese and Thai herbal medicine to treat a variety of infectious diseases and immunological disorders.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the in vitro anti-allergic activities of crude extracts andpure isolated flavonoid compounds from SG by determination of inhibitory effect on antigen-induced release of β-hexosaminidasefrom RBL-2H3 cells.

MATERIAL AND METHOD

The in vitro inhibitory effects ofcrude aqueous and organic extracts on β-hexosaminidase release in RBL-2H3 cells were evaluated as an in vitro indication ofpossible anti-allergic activity. Bioassay-guided fractionation of extracts was used to isolate flavonoid compounds from the ethanolic extracts.

RESULTS

The 95% and 50% ethanolic extracts of SG showed remarkably high anti-allergic activity, with IC50 values of 5.74 ± 2.44 and 23.54 ± 4.75 µg/ml, much higher activity than that for Ketotifen (IC50 58.90 µM). The water extract had negligible activity (IC50 > 100 µg/ml). The two isolated flavonols, Engeletin and Astilbin, showed weak anti-allergic activity, IC50 values 97.46 ± 2.04 and >100 µg/ml, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The 95% and 50% ethanolic extracts of SG showed strong anti-allergic activity, but two flavonol constituents did not show any significant anti-allergic activity. These findings suggest that a combination of effects of various phytochemicals in crude extracts used in traditional medicine, are responsible for the purported anti-allergic activity of SG herbal preparations. The plethora of constituents in crude extracts, as yet unidentified, are likely to be acting synergistically to account for the strong observed anti-allergic in vitro activity.

Anti-hyperuricemia effects of allopurinol are improved by Smilax riparia, a traditional Chinese herbal medicine

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The roots and rhizomes of Smilax riparia are called "Niu-Wei-Cai" in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). This botanical has been used in treating the symptoms of gout and other hyperuricemic-related conditions in TCM. Allopurinol is a commonly used medication to treat hyperuricemia and its complications. In this study, we evaluated whether Smilax riparia could enhance allopurinol׳s effects by decreasing the serum uric acid level in a hyperuricemic mouse model induced by potassium oxonate.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We examined the effects of allopurinol (5mg/kg) administration alone or in combination with Smilax riparia saponins (SRS, 500 mg/kg) on the serum uric acid (SUA), serum creatinine (SCr) and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels in a hyperuricemic mouse model. The effects of allopurinol alone or those of allopurinol plus SRS on the XOD activities were measured. Western blot analysis was used to measure the levels of mURAT1, mGLUT9 and mOTA1 in the mice.

RESULTS

Compared with allopurinol alone, the combination of allopurinol and SRS significantly decreased the serum uric acid level and increased the urine uric acid level (both P<0.05), leading to the normalized serum and urine uric acid concentrations. Data on serum and urine creatinine and BUN supported these observations. The attenuation of hyperuricemia-induced renal dysfunction was linked to the inhibition of both serum and hepatic xanthine oxidase (XOD), the down-regulation of renal mURAT1 and mGLUT9, and the up-regulation of mOAT1.

CONCLUSION

The anti-hyperuricemia effects of allopurinol are improved by Smilax riparia co-administration. The results were supported by the measurement of uric acid, creatinine, BUN, XOD, mURAT1, mGLUT9 and mOAT1. Our data may have a potential value in clinical practice in the treatment of gout and other hyperuricemic conditions.

Four new furostanol saponins from the rhizomes and roots of Smilax scobinicaulis and their cytotoxicity

Four new furostanol saponins 1–4, along with two known furostanol saponins 5 and 6 and one known spirostanol saponin 7 were isolated from the rhizomes and roots of Smilax scobinicaulis. The structures of the new saponins were elucidated as 26-O-β-d-glucopyranoside-3β,26-dihydroxy-(25R)-5α-furostan-22-methoxyl-6-one-3-O-α-l-arabinopyranosyl-(1→6)-β-d-glucopyranoside (1), 26-O-β-d-glucopyranoside-3β,26-dihydroxy-(25R)-5α-furostan-22-methoxyl-6-one (2), 26-O-β-d-glucopyranoside-3β,26-dihydroxy-(25R)-5α-furostan-20(22)-en-6-one (3), 26-O-β-d-glucopyranoside-3β,23,26-trihydroxy-(23R, 25R)-5α-furostan-20(22)-en-6-one (4) on the basis of spectroscopic analysis. The isolated saponins were evaluated for cytotoxic activity against two human cancer cell lines including Hela (cervical carcinoma) and SMMC-7221 (hepatocellular carcinoma). Compounds 1 and 7 demonstrated cytotoxicity against the tested cell lines.

Pallidifloside D, a saponin glycoside constituent from Smilax riparia, resist to hyperuricemia based on URAT1 and GLUT9 in hyperuricemic mice

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The roots and rhizomes of Smilax riparia (SR), called "Niu-Wei-Cai" in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), are believed to be effective in treating hyperuricemia and gout symptoms. This study was designed to isolate a saponin glycoside named pallidifloside D from the total saponins of Smilax riparia and to examine its effect in reducing serum uric acid levels in a hyperuricemic mouse model induced by potassium oxonate.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We examined the effects of pallidifloside D treated with 5, 10 and 20mg/kg on serum uric acid levels (SUA), Serum creatinine (SCr) and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels in a hyperuricemic mouse. A colorimetric method was used to evaluate the effects of pallidifloside D on the XOD activities, and Western Blotting analysis were carried out to observe protein levels of mURAT1, mGLUT9 and mOTA1 in hyperuricemic mice after treatment with pallidifloside D.

RESULTS

The levels of serum uric acid levels (SUA) were suppressed significantly with dose-dependence by pallidifloside D treated with 5, 10 and 20mg/kg (p<0.05, p<0.01 and p<0.01 respectively). Pallidifloside D could down-regulate the expression levels of renal mURAT1 protein in hyperuricemic mice in a dose-dependent manner (p<0.05, p<0.01, and p<0.001 respectively), and the protein levels of mGLUT9 could be down-regulated with dose-dependence (p<0.05 and p<0.01 respectively) by pallidifloside D at the dose of 10 and 20mg/kg.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that pallidifloside D possesses a potent uricosuric effect in hyperuricemic mice through decreasing renal mURAT1 and GLUT9, which contribute to the enhancement of uric acid excretion and attenuate hyperuricemia-induced renal dysfunction.

Riparoside B and timosaponin J, two steroidal glycosides from Smilax riparia, resist to hyperuricemia based on URAT1 in hyperuricemic mice

The roots and rhizomes of Smilax riparia (SR), called "Niu-Wei-Cai" in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), are believed to be effective in treating gout symptoms. However, it is not clear if the active constituents and uricosuric mechanisms of S. riparia support its therapeutic activities. In this study, we isolated two steroidal glycosides named riparoside B and timosaponin J from the total saponins of S. riparia. We then examined if these two compounds were effective in reducing serum uric acid levels in a hyperuricemic mouse model induced by potassium oxonate. We found that the two steroidal glycosides possess potent uricosuric effect in hyperuricemic mice through decreasing renal mURAT1 mainly and inhibiting XOD activity in a certain extent, which contribute to the enhancement of uric acid excretion and attenuate hyperuricemia-induced renal dysfunction. Riparoside B and timosaponin J may have a clinical utility in treating gout and other medical conditions caused by hyperuricemia.

The protective effect of Smilax glabra extract on advanced glycation end products-induced endothelial dysfunction in HUVECs via RAGE-ERK1/2-NF-κB pathway

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Smilax glabra Roxb. (SGR) is a traditional Chinese herb that has been used in folk for the treatment of diabetic vascular complications. Advanced glycation end products (AGEs)-induced endothelial dysfunction has been thought to be a major cause of diabetic vascular complications. The present study was conducted to investigate the protective effect of SGR extract on AGEs-induced endothelial dysfunction and its underlying mechanisms.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were exposed to 200 μg/ml AGEs to induce endothelial dysfunction. Acridine orange/ethidium bromide (AO/EB) fluorescence assay and Annexin-V/PI double-staining were performed to determine endothelium apoptosis. Dihydroethidium (DHE) fluorescence probe, SOD and MDA kits were used to evaluate oxidative stress. The effect of SGR extract on AGEs-induced TGF-beta1 expression was determined by immunocytochemistry and western blotting. Attenuations of SGR extract on receptor for AGEs (RAGE) expression, extracellular regulated protein kinases (ERK1/2) activation and NF-κB phosphorylation were determined by immunofluorescence assay and western blotting. The blockade assays for RAGE and ERK1/2 were carried out using a specific RAGE-antibody (RAGE-Ab) or a selective ERK1/2 inhibitor PD98059 in immunofluorescence assay.

RESULTS

The pretreatment of SGR extract (0.125, 0.25 and 0.5 mg crude drug/ml) significantly attenuated AGEs-induced endothelium apoptosis, and down-regulated TGF-beta1 protein expression in HUVECs. It was also well shown that SGR extract could down-regulate dose-dependently ROS over-generation, MDA content, TGF-beta1 expression, ERK1/2 and NF-κB activation whereas increase significantly SOD activity. Furthermore, the AGEs-induced ERK1/2 activation could be attenuated by the blockade of RAGE-Ab (5 μg/ml) while the NF-κB activation was ameliorated by ERK1/2 inhibitor PD98059 (10 μM).

CONCLUSION

These results indicated that SGR extract could attenuate AGEs-induced endothelial dysfunction via RAGE-ERK1/2-NF-κB pathways. Our findings suggest that SGR extract may be beneficial for attenuating endothelial dysfunction in diabetic vascular complications.

Hypoglycemic and hypotensive activity of a root extract of Smilax aristolochiifolia, standardized on N-trans-feruloyl-tyramine

The metabolic syndrome (MS) is a condition consisting of various metabolic abnormalities that are risk factors for developing kidney failure, cardiovascular, vascular and cerebrovascular diseases, among others. The prevalence of this syndrome shows a marked increase. The aim of this study was to investigate the pharmacological effect of Smilax aristolochiifolia root on some components of MS and obtain some of the active principle using chromatographic techniques. The compound isolated was N-trans-feruloyl tyramine NTF (1), and its structure was determined by spectroscopic and spectrometric analyses. The whole extract and the standardized fractions were able to control the weight gain around 30%; the fraction rich in NTF was able to decrease the hypertriglyceridemia by 60%. The insulin resistance decreased by approximately 40%; the same happened with blood pressure, since the values of systolic and diastolic pressure fell on average 31% and 37% respectively, to levels comparable to normal value. The treatment also had an immunomodulatory effect on the low-grade inflammation associated with obesity, since it significantly decreased the relative production of pro-inflammatory cytokines regarding anti-inflammatory cytokines, both kidney and adipose tissue. Therefore it can be concluded that the extract and fractions of Smilax aristolochiifolia root with NTF are useful to counteract some symptoms of MS in animal models.

Fermentation of Smilax china root by Aspergillus usami and Saccharomyces cerevisiae promoted concentration of resveratrol and oxyresveratrol and the free-radical scavenging activity

BACKGROUND

Smilax china root, which is rich in resveratrol and oxyresveratrol, has been used as emergency foods as well as folk medicine. This study investigated changes in concentration of bioactive components and the free-radical scavenging capacity of Smilax china root during fermentation by Aspergillus usami and Saccharomyces cerevisiae.

RESULTS

Resveratrol, oxyresveratrol and piceid were quantified as major constituents in Smilax china root by using UPLC-ESI-MS. The concentration of oxyresveratrol and resveratrol remarkably increased through fermentation and the transformation of piceid to resveratrol. Its concentration in 4% Smilax china root was 1.16-2.95 times higher than that of a 2% preparation throughout fermentation. The vitamin C equivalent antioxidant capacity of 2% Smilax china root was 1.51-1.91 times higher than that of 4% Smilax china root during fermentation. Meanwhile, ABTS free-radical scavenging capacity was enhanced up to 95.07 and 99.35% for 2% and 4% Smilax china root, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Results from our study propose that bioactive components in Smilax China root were highly extracted by fermentation followed by saccharification and ethanol production, resulting in enhanced free-radical scavenging capacity. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry.

[Effect of Smilax china bioactive fraction on tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin-4 contents in uterine tissue of rats with chronic pelvic inflammatory disease]

OBJECTIVE

To study the mechanism that mediates the therapeutic effect of the bioactive fraction of Baqia (Smilax china) on chronic pelvic inflammatory disease (CPID).

METHODS

Seventy rats were randomized into CPID model group, sham-operated group, normal control group, Jingangteng capsule group, and high-, medium-, and low-dose Baqia groups. Rat models of CPID were established by inducing chemical burns of the uterus and corresponding treatments were administered. After 14 days of treatment, the rat uterus was observed for swelling and inhibition rate, and the expressions of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-4 (IL-4) in the uterine tissues were determined using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.

RESULTS

The bioactive fraction of Baqia at the 3 doses obviously reduced the inflammatory cells in the endometrium, promoted epithelial cell proliferation, and ameliorated congestion and edema of the serosa. High and medium doses of Baqia bioactive fraction significantly decreased uterus swelling rate of the rats (P<0.01). All the 3 doses of the Baqia bioactive fraction obviously decreased uterine TNF-α content (P<0.01) and significantly increased uterine IL-4 expression level (P<0.05), and IL-4 up-regulation was especially obvious in high and medium dose groups (P<0.01).

CONCLUSION

Baqia bioactive fraction can ameliorate uterine swelling, lower uterine TNF-α and increase IL-4 expressions in rats with CPID, which may be a pharmacological mechanism underlying its therapeutic effect on CPID and cervical adhesion.

Examination of the phenolic profile and antioxidant activity of the leaves of the Australian native plant Smilax glyciphylla

Together with the sweet principle component glycyphyllin A (3), seven phenolic compounds including two new dihydrochalcone rhamnopyranosides, glycyphyllin B (1) and glycyphyllin C (2), and five known flavonoids, catechin (4), kaempferol-3-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (5), quercetin-3-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (6), kaempferol-3-O-β-neohesperidoside (7), and 2R,3R-dihydrokaempferol-3-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (8), have been isolated from the ethanolic extract of the leaves of Smilax glyciphylla for the first time. The structures of these compounds were characterized by spectroscopic methods including UV, MS, and 1D and 2D NMR. In vitro antioxidant capacity tests employing FRAP and DPPH assays indicated that 1, 4, and 6 exhibited potent antioxidant activity and are the key phenolics responsible for the antioxidant activity of the leaf extract of S. glyciphylla.

[Phenylpropanoids and diphenylethene compounds from roots and rhizomes of Smilax scobinicaulis]

The chemical constituents were separated and purified from the roots and rhizomes of Smilax scobinicaulis by various chromatographic methods including silica gel, Sephadex LH-20. Their structures were obtained and identified as resveratrol-3-O-beta-D-glucopyranosyl-(1-->3)-beta-D-glucopyranoside (1), resveratrol (2), 8-viniferin (3), ethyl caffeate (4), 1-0-caffeoylglycerol (5), 1-O-p-coumaroylglycerol (6), 1-0-feruloylglycerol (7), grossamide (8), moracin M (9) on the analysis of spectroscopic data. Compound 1 was a new compound and compounds 3-5, 8,9 were separated from this plant for the first time.

Inhibitory effects of Korean indigenous plants on tyrosinase and melanogenesis

To search for new depigmenting cosmetic ingredients from Korean herbal extracts of traditional Korean medicines (TKMs), we screened about 17 TKM extracts collected in the Republic of Korea. Samples were prepared from the natural plants, including medicinal plants such as Chrysanthemum indicum (flower), using methanol, methylene chloride, ethyl acetate (EtOAc), n-butyl alcohol, and water as the extraction and/or the partitioning solvents. We then tested their inhibitory effects on melanogenesis by using in vitro tyrosinase inhibition assay, in vitro l-3,4-dihydroxy-indole-2-carboxylic acid (l-DOPA) auto-oxidation assay, and B16 melanoma cells. In addition, cytotoxicity testing (NR50 and MTT50) was conducted to evaluate safety. From the results of these assays, four fractions with good efficacy and low toxicity were selected among them, including EtOAc fraction of Smilax china (rhizome), Paeonia lactiflora (root), and Polyporus umbellatus (sclerotium), and BuOH fraction of Evodia officinalis (fruit). In the inhibition assay of intracellular tyrosinase activity and melanogenesis in B16 melanoma cell line, the four plant fractions showed dose-dependent inhibitory effects, and the EtOAc fraction of P. lactiflora showed the highest activity among the four fractions. The EtOAc fraction of P. lactiflora was found to be the most effective substrate.

[Content detemination of total tannin in Smilax glabra with reddish brown and off-white colored cross section]

There are two types of decoction of Smilax glabra due to its reddish brown or off-white colored cross section. These two kinds of decoction were found that they have large difference in anti-inflammatory effects and chemical constituents in the preliminary experiments. Comparing and analyzing the content of total tannin in these two kinds of decoction of S. glabra from 28 areas by UV-Vis spectrophotometry were first used to provide some experimental and theoretical development and utilization of this medicinal resource and quality control. Also, the sample recovery test required in Chinese Pharmacopoeia was improved by adding tannic acid instead of gallic acid to samples.

A new lyoniresinol derivative from Smilax microphylla

A new lignan, lyoniresinol-9-O-8"-syringylglycerol ether (1), together with five known compounds, piceatannol (2), resveratrol (3), oxyresveratrol (4), quercetin-3'-glucoside (5) and diosgenin (6) were isolated from the rhizomes of Smilax microphylla. The structure of the new compound was determined by means of chemical evidence and 1D-and 2D-NMR (1H, 13C, HSQC, HMBC, 1H-1H COSY and NOESY) spectroscopic analysis and HR-ESI-MS.