Pharmacokinetic analysis of antiviral drug ritonavir across the blood-brain barrier and its interaction with Scutellaria baicalensis using multisite microdialysis in rats

Ritonavir, an excellent inhibitor of CYP3A4, has recently been combined with nirmatrelvir to form Paxlovid for the treatment of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infections. The root of Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi (S. baicalensis), a traditional Chinese medicinal (TCM) herb commonly used to treat heat/inflammation in the lung and digestive tracts, which are major organs targeted by viral infections, contains flavones that can influence the CYP3A metabolism pathway. To investigate the ability of ritonavir to cross the bloodbrain barrier (BBB) and its potential herb-drug interactions with an equivalent TCM clinical dose of S. baicalensis, multisite microdialysis coupled with an LCMS/MS system was developed using rat model. Pretreatment with S. baicalensis extract for 5 days, which contains less flavones than those used in previous studies, had a significant influence on ritonavir, resulting in a 2-fold increase in the total concentration of flavones in the blood and brain. Treatment also boosted the maximum blood concentration of flavones by 1.5-fold and the maximum brain concentration of flavones by 2-fold, all the while exerting no noticeable influence on the transfer ratio across the bloodbrain barrier. These experimental results demonstrated that the use of a typical traditional Chinese medicinal dose of S. baicalensis is sufficient to influence the metabolic pathway and synergistically increase the concentration of ritonavir in rats.

Wogonin improves colitis by activating the AhR pathway to regulate the plasticity of ILC3/ILC1

BACKGROUND

Intestinal barrier dysfunction caused by the disrupted balance of group 3 innate lymphoid cells (ILC3)/group 1 innate lymphoid cells (ILC1) is a significant feature in the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Activation of aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) signaling contributes to the maintenance of ILC3/ILC1 balance. Wogonin, a natural flavonoid from Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi, can repair intestinal mucosal damage of IBD. However, it remains unclear if wogonin can exert a therapeutic effect by activating the AhR pathway to regulate the plasticity of ILC3/ILC1.

PURPOSE

In this study, we investigated the immunomodulatory effects of wogonin on IBD and its potential mechanisms in vitro and in vivo.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Chronic colitis was induced by four cycles of 2 % DSS treatment in mice. 20 mg kg-1/day wogonin was administrated by oral gavage and mice were treated intraperitoneally with 10 mg kg-1/2 days CH223191 to block the AhR pathway. Colon tissues were processed for histopathological examination and evaluation of the epithelial barrier function by immunohistochemistry. The activation of the AhR pathway and the plasticity of ILC3/ILC1 were determined by western blot and flow cytometry. Then, we also detected the intestinal microflora and their metabolites by 16 s sequencing and non-targeted Metabolomics analysis. Furthermore, an in vitro culture system consisting of MNK3 cells and NCM460 cells, and a CETSA assay were performed to confirm the molecular mechanism.

RESULTS

Wogonin ameliorated histological severity of the colon, decreased the secretion of inflammatory factors, and increased tight junction proteins in colitis mice. These effects are associated with the tendency of conversion from ILC3 to ILC1 prevented by wogonin, which was offset by AhR antagonist CH223191. In addition, wogonin exerted the curative effect by altering gut microbiota to produce metabolites such as Kynurenic acid, and 1H-Indole-3-carboxaldehyde as AhR endogenous ligands. In vitro data further verified that wogonin as an exogenous ligand directly binds to the structural domain of AhR by CETSA. Also, the supernatant of MNK-3 cells stimulated with wogonin enhanced expression of Occludin and Claudin1 in NCM460 cells induced by LPS.

CONCLUSION

Cumulatively, our study illustrated that wogonin improved the outcomes of DSS-induced chronic colitis via regulating the plasticity of ILC3/ILC1. Its specific mechanism is to binding to AhR directly, and to activate the AhR pathway indirectly by altering the tryptophan metabolisms of gut microbiota.

Baicalein alleviates cardiomyocyte death in EAM mice by inhibiting the JAK-STAT1/4 signalling pathway

BACKGROUND

The experimental autoimmune myocarditis (EAM) model is valuable for investigating myocarditis pathogenesis. M1-type macrophages and CD4+T cells exert key pathogenic effects on EAM initiation and progression. Baicalein (5,6,7-trihydroxyflavone, C15H10O5, BAI), which is derived from the Scutellaria baicalensis root, is a primary bioactive compound with potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. BAI exerts good therapeutic effects against various autoimmune diseases; however, its effect in EAM has not been thoroughly researched.

PURPOSE

This study aimed to explore the possible inhibitory effect of BAI on M1 macrophage polarisation and CD4+T cell differentiation into Th1 cells via modulation of the JAK-STAT1/4 signalling pathway, which reduces the secretion of pro-inflammatory factors, namely, TNF-α and IFN-γ, and consequently inhibits TNF-α- and IFN-γ-triggered apoptosis in cardiomyocytes of the EAM model mice.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Flow cytometry, immunofluorescence, real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (q-PCR), and western blotting were performed to determine whether BAI alleviated M1/Th1-secreted TNF-α- and IFN-γ-induced myocyte death in the EAM model mice through the inhibition of the JAK-STAT1/4 signalling pathway.

RESULTS

These results indicate that BAI intervention in mice resulted in mild inflammatory infiltrates. BAI inhibited JAK-STAT1 signalling in macrophages both in vivo and in vitro, which attenuated macrophage polarisation to the M1 type and reduced TNF-α secretion. Additionally, BAI significantly inhibited the differentiation of CD4+T cells to Th1 cells and IFN-γ secretion both in vivo and in vitro by modulating the JAK-STAT1/4 signalling pathway. This ultimately led to decreased TNF-α and IFN-γ levels in cardiac tissues and reduced myocardial cell apoptosis.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrates that BAI alleviates M1/Th1-secreted TNF-α- and IFN-γ-induced cardiomyocyte death in EAM mice by inhibiting the JAK-STAT1/4 signalling pathway.

Baicalein improves the symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome by mitigating oxidative stress and ferroptosis in the ovary and gravid placenta

BACKGROUND

Polycystic ovary syndrome is a metabolic and hormonal disorder that is closely linked to oxidative stress. Within individuals diagnosed with PCOS, changes occur in the ovaries, resulting in an excessive buildup of iron and peroxidation of lipids, both of which may be associated with the occurrence of ferroptosis. Baicalein, a flavonoid found in the roots of Scutellaria baicalensis and widely known as Chinese skullcap, is known for its anti-inflammatory and anti-ferroptotic properties, which protect against various diseases. Nevertheless, there has been no investigation into the impact of baicalein on polycystic ovary syndrome.

PURPOSE

This study aimed to correlate ferroptosis with polycystic ovary syndrome and to assess the effects of baicalein on ovarian dysfunction and placental development in pregnant patients.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Polycystic ovary syndrome was induced in a rat model through the administration of dehydroepiandrosterone, and these rats were treated with baicalein. Oxidative stress and inflammation levels were assessed in serum and ovaries, and tissue samples were collected for histological and protein analyses. Furthermore, different groups of female rats were mated with male rats to observe pregnancy outcomes and tissue samples were obtained for histological, protein, and RNA sequencing. Then, RNA sequencing of the placenta was performed to determine the key genes involved in ferroptosis negative regulation (FNR) signatures.

RESULTS

Baicalein was shown to reduce ovarian oxidative stress and pathology. Baicalein also ameliorated polycystic ovary syndrome by decreasing lipid peroxidation and chronic inflammation and modulating mitochondrial functions and ferroptosis in the ovaries. Specifically, glutathione peroxidase and ferritin heavy chain 1 were considerably downregulated in polycystic ovary syndrome gravid rats compared to their expression in the control group, and most of these differences were reversed after baicalein intervention.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings, initially, indicated that baicalein could potentially enhance the prognosis of individuals suffering from polycystic ovary syndrome by reducing oxidative stress and ferroptosis, thus potentially influencing the formulation of a therapeutic approach to address this condition.

Baicalin and baicalein from Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi alleviate aberrant neuronal suppression mediated by GABA from reactive astrocytes

AIMS

γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) from reactive astrocytes is critical for the dysregulation of neuronal activity in various neuroinflammatory conditions. While Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi (S. baicalensis) is known for its efficacy in addressing neurological symptoms, its potential to reduce GABA synthesis in reactive astrocytes and the associated neuronal suppression remains unclear. This study focuses on the inhibitory action of monoamine oxidase B (MAO-B), the key enzyme for astrocytic GABA synthesis.

METHODS

Using a lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced neuroinflammation mouse model, we conducted immunohistochemistry to assess the effect of S. baicalensis on astrocyte reactivity and its GABA synthesis. High-performance liquid chromatography was performed to reveal the major compounds of S. baicalensis, the effects of which on MAO-B inhibition, astrocyte reactivity, and tonic inhibition in hippocampal neurons were validated by MAO-B activity assay, qRT-PCR, and whole-cell patch-clamp.

RESULTS

The ethanolic extract of S. baicalensis ameliorated astrocyte reactivity and reduced excessive astrocytic GABA content in the CA1 hippocampus. Baicalin and baicalein exhibited significant MAO-B inhibition potential. These two compounds downregulate the mRNA levels of genes associated with reactive astrogliosis or astrocytic GABA synthesis. Additionally, LPS-induced aberrant tonic inhibition was reversed by both S. baicalensis extract and its key compounds.

CONCLUSIONS

In summary, baicalin and baicalein isolated from S. baicalensis reduce astrocyte reactivity and alleviate aberrant tonic inhibition of hippocampal neurons during neuroinflammation.

Network Pharmacology and Molecular Docking Identify the Potential Mechanism and Therapeutic Role of Scutellaria baicalensis in Alzheimer's Disease

Aim

Scutellaria baicalensis, a traditional Chinese medicinal herb renowned for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-tumor properties, has shown promise in alleviating cognitive impairment associated with Alzheimer's disease. Nonetheless, the exact neuroprotective mechanism of Scutellaria baicalensis against Alzheimer's disease remains unclear. In this study, network pharmacology was employed to explore the possible mechanisms by which Scutellaria baicalensis protects against Alzheimer's disease.

Methods

The active compounds of Scutellaria baicalensis were retrieved from the TCMSP database, and their corresponding targets were identified. Alzheimer's disease-related targets were obtained through searches in the GeneCards and OMIM databases. Cytoscape 3.6.0 software was utilized to construct a regulatory network illustrating the "active ingredient-target" relationships. Subsequently, the target genes affected by Scutellaria baicalensis in the context of Alzheimer's disease were input into the String database to establish a PPI network. GO analysis and KEGG analysis were conducted using the DAVID database to predict the potential pathways associated with these key targets. Following this, the capacity of these active ingredients to bind to core targets was confirmed through molecular docking. In vitro experiments were then carried out for further validation.

Results

A total of 36 active ingredients from Scutellaria baicalensis were screened out, which corresponded to 365 targets. Molecular docking results demonstrated the robust binding abilities of Baicalein, Wogonin, and 5,2'-Dihydroxy-6,7,8-trimethoxyflavone to key target proteins (SRC, PIK3R1, and STAT3). In vitro experiments showed that the active components of Scutellaria baicalensis can inhibit STAT3 expression by downregulating the PIK3R1/SRC pathway in Neuro 2A cells.

Conclusion

In summary, these findings collectively suggest that Scutellaria baicalensis holds promise as a viable treatment option for Alzheimer's disease.

Antifibrotic Effect of Baicalin on Arecoline Induced Human Oral Fibroblast: An In-Vitro Study

BACKGROUND

Baicalin is a flavonoid obtained from the Chinese herb Scutellaria baicalensis, which has a wide varieties of health benefits and scope to be studied for its therapeutic potential in oral fibrosis.

AIM

The aim of the study was to investigate the antifibrotic effect of a Baicalin in arecoline induced human oral fibroblast in vitro setting.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Arecoline and ethanolic extracts of Baicalin were commercially purchased from Sigma-Aldrich. Human oral fibroblasts were cultured and characterized with specific fibroblast markers, and cells were stimulated with arecoline. An MTT assay (3-[4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2, 5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) was executed to determine the half-maximal inhibitory concentration of arecoline and Baicalin. Arecoline-induced cells (25µg/ml) were treated with a non-toxic dose of Baicalin (proliferative dose of 25µg/ml). Cytokine (CCL2, CXCL-8, IL17, IL-beta, and IL-6) and fibrotic marker genes were studied by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). The inhibitory effect of Baicalin was studied to prove its antifibrotic properties.

RESULTS

Arecoline significantly upregulated all inflammatory and fibrotic markers. On treatment with 25µg/ml of Baicalin, all inflammatory and fibrotic markers were inhibited. Arecoline affects fibroblast morphology, supporting the fact that arecoline is cytotoxic to cells.

CONCLUSION

Baicalin can be used as an antifibrotic herb to treat OSMF.

Advances in pharmacology, biosynthesis, and metabolic engineering of Scutellaria-specialized metabolites

Scutellaria Linn., which belongs to the family Lamiaceae, is a commonly used medicinal plant for heat clearing and detoxification. In particular, the roots of S. baicalensis and the entire herb of S. barbata have been widely used in traditional medicine for thousands of years. The main active components of Scutellaria, including: baicalein, wogonin, norwogonin, scutellarein, and their glycosides have potential or existing drug usage. However, the wild resources of Scutellaria plants have been overexploited, and degenerated germplasm resources cannot fulfill the requirements of chemical extraction and clinical usage. Metabolic engineering and green production via microorganisms provide alternative strategies for greater efficiency in the production of natural products. Here, we review the progress of: pharmacological investigations, multi-omics, biosynthetic pathways, and metabolic engineering of various Scutellaria species and their active compounds. In addition, based on multi-omics data, we systematically analyze the phylogenetic relationships of Scutellaria and predict candidate transcription factors related to the regulation of active flavonoids. Finally, we propose the prospects of directed evolution of core enzymes and genome-assisted breeding to alleviate the shortage of plant resources of Scutellaria. This review provides important insights into the sustainable utilization and development of Scutellaria resources.

Chemical Compositions of Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi. (Huangqin) Extracts and Their Effects on ACE2 Binding of SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein, ACE2 Activity, and Free Radicals

The water and ethanol extracts of huangqin, the roots of Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi. with potential antiviral properties and antioxidant activities, were investigated for their chemical profiles and their abilities to interfere with the interaction between SARS-CoV-2 spike protein and ACE2, inhibiting ACE2 activity and scavenging free radicals. A total of 76 compounds were tentatively identified from the extracts. The water extract showed a greater inhibition on the interaction between SARS-CoV-2 spike protein and ACE2, but less inhibition on ACE2 activity than that of the ethanol extract on a per botanical weight concentration basis. The total phenolic content was 65.27 mg gallic acid equivalent (GAE)/g dry botanical and the scavenging capacities against HO●, DPPH●, and ABTS●+ were 1369.39, 334.37, and 533.66 µmol trolox equivalent (TE)/g dry botanical for the water extract, respectively. These values were greater than those of the ethanol extract, with a TPC of 20.34 mg GAE/g, and 217.17, 10.93, and 50.21 µmol TE/g against HO●, DPPH●, and ABTS●+, respectively. The results suggested the potential use of huangqin as a functional food ingredient in preventing COVID-19.

Huangqin Decoction Delays Progress of Colitis-Associated Carcinogenesis by Regulating Nrf2/HO-1 Antioxidant Signal Pathway in Mice

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effect of Huangqin Decoction (HQD) on nuclear factor erythroid 2 related-factor 2 (Nrf2)/heme oxygenase (HO-1) signaling pathway by inducing the colitis-associated carcinogenesis (CAC) model mice with azoxymethane (AOM)/dextran sodium sulfate (DSS).

METHODS

The chemical components of HQD were analyzed by liquid chromatography-quadrupole-time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LC-Q-TOF-MS/MS) to determine the molecular constituents of HQD. Totally 48 C57BL/6J mice were randomly divided into 6 groups by a random number table, including control, model (AOM/DSS), mesalazine (MS), low-, medium-, and high-dose HQD (HQD-L, HQD-M, and HQD-H) groups, 8 mice in each group. Except for the control group, the mice in the other groups were intraperitoneally injected with AOM (10 mg/kg) and administrated with 2.5% DSS orally for 1 week every two weeks (totally 3 rounds of DSS) to construct a colitis-associated carcinogenesis mouse model. The mice in the HQD-L, HQD-M and HQD-H groups were given HQD by gavage at doses of 2.925, 5.85, and 11.7 g/kg, respectively; the mice in the MS group was given a suspension of MS at a dose of 0.043 g/kg (totally 11 weeks). The serum levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The mRNA and protein expression levels of Nrf2, HO-1, and inhibitory KELCH like ECH-related protein 1 (Keap1) in colon tissue were detected by quantitative real-time PCR, immunohistochemistry, and Western blot, respectively.

RESULTS

LC-Q-TOF-MS/MS analysis revealed that the chemical constituents of HQD include baicalin, paeoniflorin, and glycyrrhizic acid. Compared to the control group, significantly higher MDA levels and lower SOD levels were observed in the model group (P<0.05), whereas the expressions of Nrf2 and HO-1 were significantly decreased, and the expression of Keap1 increased (P<0.01). Compared with the model group, serum MDA level was decreased and SOD level was increased in the HQD-M, HQD-H and MS groups (P<0.05). Higher expressions of Nrf2 and HO-1 were observed in the HQD groups.

CONCLUSION

HQD may regulate the expression of Nrf2 and HO-1 in colon tissue, reduce the expression of MDA and increase the expression of SOD in serum, thus delaying the progress of CAC in AOM/DSS mice.

Effects of light qualities on growth and physiological-biochemical traits of Scutellaria baicalensis

Canopy spectral composition significantly affects growth and functional traits of understory plants. In this study, we explored the optimal light condition suitable for enhancing Scutellaria baicalensis's yield and quality, aiming to provide scientific reference for the exploitation and utilization of medicinal plant resources in the understory of forests. We measured the responses of growth, morphology, biomass allocation, physiological traits, and secon-dary metabolites of S. baicalensis to different light qualities. S. baicalensis was cultured under five LED-light treatments including full spectrum light (control), ultraviolet-A (UV-A) radiation, blue, green, and red light. Results showed that UV-A significantly reduced plant height, base diameter, leaf thickness, leaf area ratio, and biomass of each organ. Red light significantly reduced base diameter, biomass, effective quantum yield of photosystem Ⅱ (ФPSⅡ), and total flavonoid concentration. Under blue light, root length and total biomass of S. baicalensis significantly increased by 48.0% and 10.8%, respectively, while leaf number and chlorophyll content significantly decreased by 20.0% and 31.6%, respectively. The other physiological and biochemical traits were consistent with their responses in control. Our results suggested that blue light promoted photosynthesis, biomass accumulation, and secondary metabolite synthesis of S. baicalensis, while red light and UV-A radiation negatively affected physiological and biochemical metabolic processes. Therefore, the ratio of blue light could be appropriately increased to improve the yield and quality of S. baicalensis.

Mechanisms Involved in Therapeutic Effects of Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi in Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma Based on Systems Biology and Structural Bioinformatics Approaches

Objective

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is the most frequent oral cancer, constituting more than 90% of all oral carcinomas. The 5-year survival rate of OSCC patients is not satisfactory, and therefore, there is an urgent need for new practical therapeutic approaches besides the current therapies to overcome OSCC. Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi (SBG) is a plant of the family Lamiaceae with several pharmaceutical properties such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer effects. Previous studies have demonstrated the curative effects of SBG in OSCC.

Methods

A systems biology approach was conducted to identify differentially expressed miRNAs (DEMs) in OSCC patients with a dismal prognosis compared to OSCC patients with a favorable prognosis. A protein interaction map (PIM) was built based on DEMs targets, and the hub genes within the PIM were indicated. Subsequently, the prognostic role of the hubs was studied using Kaplan-Meier curves. Next, the binding affinity of SBG's main components, including baicalein, wogonin, oroxylin-A, salvigenin, and norwogonin, to the prognostic markers in OSCC was evaluated using molecular docking analysis.

Results

Survival analysis showed that overexpression of CAV1, SERPINE1, ACTB, SMAD3, HMGA2, MYC, EIF2S1, HSPA4, HSPA5, and IL6 was significantly related to a poor prognosis in OSCC. Besides, molecular docking analysis demonstrated the ΔGbinding and inhibition constant values between SBG's main components and SERPINE1, ACTB, HMGA2, EIF2S1, HSPA4, and HSPA5 were as <-8.00 kcal/mol and nanomolar concentration, respectively. The most salient binding affinity was observed between wogonin and SERPINE1 with a criterion of ΔGbinding < -10.02 kcal/mol.

Conclusion

The present results unraveled potential mechanisms involved in therapeutic effects of SBG in OSCC based on systems biology and structural bioinformatics analyses.

The chemical constituents and metabolite profiles of Huangqin decoction in normal and ulcerative colitis rats by UHPLC-Q-TOF/MS analysis

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a recurrent and palliative inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) begins in distal colon and spreads proximally to the entire colon, characterized by mucosal inflammation which reduces patients' quality of life and increases the risk of bowel cancer. Huangqin decoction (HQD), a classical Chinese formula recorded in Treatise on Febrile Diseases has been widely used for the treatment of UC. Studies found that HQD has good curative effect on UC. However, the chemical constituents and metabolites of it has not been fully elucidated due to lack of in vitro and in vivo studies, which also limits the pathogenesis study and clinical application of UC. In this study, a rapid and high-throughput UHPLC-Q-TOF/MS method was established and applied to analyse the chemical constituents and metabolites of HQD. Besides, we established an UC rat model and compared the differences of metabolite profiles between normal and UC rats both in plasma and urine. A total of 139 constituents were chemically defined or tentatively identified, including 98 flavonoids, 10 triterpene saponins, 10 monoterpene glycosides, 4 phenols, 5 phenylethanoid glycosides and 12 other types of compounds. A total of 175 and 147 HQD-related xenobiotics were detected in normal and UC rats, respectively. The main metabolic pathways of HQD were methylation, hydrolysis, hydroxylation, glucuronidation and sulfation. The holistic metabolic profiles of HQD revealed that normal and UC rats had certain differences in drug absorption and metabolism. This study can provide references for the follow-up study of HQD, and provide essential data for the further study of the relationships between chemical constituents and pharmacological activities of HQD.

Unraveling spatial metabolome of the aerial and underground parts of Scutellaria baicalensis by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry imaging

BACKGROUND

Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi, a traditional Chinese medicine, is clinically applied mainly as the dried root of Scutellaria baicalensis, and the aerial parts of Scutellaria baicalensis, its stems and leaves, are often consumed as "Scutellaria baicalensis tea" to clear heat, dry dampness, reduce fire and detoxify, while few comparative analyses of the spatial metabolome of the aerial and underground parts of Scutellaria baicalensis have been carried out in current research.

METHODS

In this work, Matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-mass spectrometry imaging (MALDI-MSI) was used to visualize the spatial imaging of the root, stem, and leaf of Scutellaria baicalensis at a high resolution of 10 μm, respectively, investigating the spatial distribution of the different secondary metabolites in the aerial and underground parts of Scutellaria baicalensis.

RESULTS

In the present results, various metabolites, such as flavonoid glycosides, flavonoid metabolites, and phenolic acids, were systematically characterized in Scutellaria baicalensis root, stem, and leaf. Nine glycosides, 18 flavonoids, one organic acid, and four other metabolites in Scutellaria baicalensis root; nine glycosides, nine flavonoids, one organic acid in Scutellaria baicalensis stem; and seven flavonoids and seven glycosides in Scutellaria baicalensis leaf were visualized by MALDI-MSI. In the underground part of Scutellaria baicalensis, baicalein, wogonin, baicalin, wogonoside, and chrysin were widely distributed, while there was less spatial location in the aerial parts. Moreover, scutellarein, carthamidin/isocarthamidin, scutellarin, carthamidin/isocarthamidin-7-O-glucuronide had a high distribution in the aerial parts of Scutellaria baicalensis. In addition, the biosynthetic pathways involved in the biosynthesis of significant flavonoid metabolites in aerial and underground parts of Scutellaria baicalensis were successfully localized and visualized.

CONCLUSIONS

MALDI-MSI offers a favorable approach for investigating the spatial distribution and effective utilization of metabolites of Scutellaria baicalensis. The detailed spatial chemical information can not only improve our understanding of the biosynthesis pathways of flavonoid metabolites, but more importantly, suggest that we need to fully exert the overall medicinal value of Scutellaria baicalensis, strengthening the reuse and development of the resources of Scutellaria baicalensis aboveground parts.

Chemical Characterization of the Precipitate Found in and Its Effect on Drug Release of the Scutellaria baicalensis-Coptis chinensis Extract

Precipitate generation is a challenging issue during the production of herbal decoction as it affects the stability and bioavailability of active compounds. Here we explored the composition of the natural precipitate formed from and its effect on drug release of Scutellaria baicalensis-Coptis chinensis paired extract (SCPE). Furthermore, the surface morphology of the SCPE precipitate was also investigated. Ultra-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS) was used to chemical component analysis and field emission scanning electron microscope (FE-SEM) was performed to particle observation. Baicalin (BA), berberine (BBR) and starch-arginine-rich polymers were abundant in the SCPE precipitate. FE-SEM micrographs showed spheroidal shaped particles in the SCPE supernatant, while spherical and porous tissue-shaped particles in the SCPE precipitate. In vitro drug release of baicalin and berberine contained in the precipitate may increase as the polymer is removed. The presence of polymer-related interactions were confirmed by the greater increase in solubility of baicalin upon addition of arginine and polymer. This was also supported by the solubility decrease of the BA-BBR complex in polymer solution and the gelation of the BA-BBR complex in arginine solution. Our results provide a scientific basis for elucidating the pharmaceutical properties of the decoction of S. baicalensis-C. chinensis-based herbal medicine.

Inhibitory effect of γ-ray-modified hydroxymethylated baicalins on NO production

Baicalin, a glucuronic flavone, is the major active component in the medicinal plant Scutellaria baicalensis. Herein, baicalin was irradiated by γ-rays to afford four unusual flavanones, baicalinols A (2), B (3), and C (4) and peroxybaicaleinol (5), and two known flavones, oroxylin A (6) and baicalein (7). The structures of the hydroxymethylated products were elucidated using nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and mass spectrometry, and their absolute configuration was established using electronic circular dichroism spectroscopy. Novel hydroxymethylated flavanones 2 and 3 suppressed both nitric oxide (NO) production and the expression of inducible NO synthase and showed significantly higher anti-inflammatory activities in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated macrophages than the parent compound. These newly generated hydroxymethylated flavanones can be potentially used for treating inflammatory diseases.

[Composition and morphology of Scutellariae Radix-Coptidis Rhizoma decoction co-precipitate and effect on in vivo behavior of decocting liquid]

Scutellariae Radix-Coptidis Rhizoma(SR-CR) herbal pair is commonly used in many compound prescriptions for their synergistic heat-clearing and dampness-drying properties. During the decoction process, a substantial amount of precipitate is generated. However, there have been no explicit reports on the composition, morphology, and potential effects of this precipitate on the in vivo behavior of SR-CR decoction. This study employed high-performance liquid chromatography(HPLC), high-resolution mass spectrometry, and other techniques to analyze the composition of the co-precipitate in the decoction of SR-CR. Scanning electron microscopy and mass spectrometry imaging were used to analyze its appearance and morphology. Additionally, rats were used to investigate the effects of the co-precipitate on the in vivo behavior of the main components in the SR-CR decoction. The research findings indicated that eight components, including coptisine, berberine, epiberberine, palmatine, baicalin, oroxylin A-7-O-β-D-glucuronide, wogonoside and baicalein, constituted the primary composition of the co-precipitate. Among these, baicalin and berberine hydrochloride were the most abundant, accounting for about 60% of the total weight. Moreover, the co-precipitate contained 18% tannins. Morphological analysis revealed that the particles in the SR-CR decoction precipitate were spherical microparticles with an average diameter of around 600 nm. Pharmacokinetic research demonstrated that there were significant differences in the AUC, C_(max), t_(1/2), and T_(max) of baicalin, a major component, in rats administered with lyophilized powders of the combined decoction and single decoctions of SR-CR orally, suggesting that the precipitate generated during the decoction process can affect the in vivo behavior of the main components of the SR-CR decoction. It can reduce the absorption of baicalin in the body, decrease the extent of rapid drug release, and to a certain extent, prevent adverse reactions or side effects.

Analysis of quality differences between Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi and Scutellaria rehderiana Diels based on phytochemistry and bioactivity evaluation

Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi (SG) and Scutellaria rehderiana Diels (SD) belong to the same genus of Scutellaria in the Labiatae (Lamiaceae) family. SG is confirmed as the medicinal source according to the Chinese Pharmacopeia, but SD is often used as a substitute for SG due to its abundant plant resources. However, the current quality standards are far from sufficient to judge the quality differences between SG and SD. In this study, an integrated strategy of "biosynthetic pathway (specificity) - plant metabolomics (difference) - bioactivity evaluation (effectiveness)" was established to evaluate this quality differences. First, an ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UHPLC-Q/TOF-MS/MS) method was developed for the identification of chemical components. The abundant components information was obtained and the characteristic constituents were screened according to the location in the biosynthetic pathway as well as species specificity. Then, plant metabolomics combined with multivariate statistical analysis to find differential components between SG and SD. The chemical markers for quality analysis were determined based on the differential and characteristic components, and the content of each marker was tentatively evaluated through the semi-quantitative analysis of UHPLC-Q/TOF-MS/MS. Finally, the anti-inflammatory activity of SG and SD was compared by measuring the inhibitory effect on the release of NO from lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells. Under this analytical strategy, a total of 113 compounds were tentatively identified in both SG and SD, among which baicalein, wogonin, chrysin, oroxylin A 7-O-β-D-glucuronoside, pinocembrin and baicalin were selected as chemical markers due to their species characteristics and differentiation. The contents of oroxylin A 7-O-β-D-glucuronoside and baicalin was higher in SG, and the others were higher in SD. In addition, both SG and SD exhibited prominent anti-inflammatory activity, but SD was less effective. The analysis strategy combining phytochemistry and bioactivity evaluation realized the scientific evaluation of the intrinsic quality differences between SG and SD, which provides a reference for fully utilizing and expanding the medicinal resources, and also provides a reference for the comprehensive quality control of herbal medicines.

[Dead heart of pith-decayed Scutellariae Radix: a study based on multi-omics]

Dead heart is an important trait of pith-decayed Scutellariae Radix. The purpose of this study was to clarify the scientific connotation of the dead heart using multi-omics. Metabolomics and transcriptomics combined with multivariate statistical analysis such as principal component analysis(PCA) and partial least squares discriminant analysis(PLS-DA) were used to systematically compare the differences in chemical composition and gene expression among phloem, outer xylem and near-dead xylem of pith-decayed Scutella-riae Radix. The results revealed significant differences in the contents of flavonoid glycosides and aglycones among the three parts. Compared with phloem and outer xylem, near-dead xylem had markedly lowered content of flavonoid glycosides(including baicalin, norwogonin-7-O-β-D-glucuronide, oroxylin A-7-O-β-D-glucuronide, and wogonoside) while markedly increased content of aglycones(including 3,5,7,2',6'-pentahydroxy dihydroflavone, baicalin, wogonin, and oroxylin A). The differentially expressed genes were mainly concentrated in KEGG pathways such as phenylpropanoid metabolism, flavonoid biosynthesis, ABC transporter, and plant MAPK signal transduction pathway. This study systematically elucidated the material basis of the dead heart of pith-decayed Scutellariae Radix with multiple growing years. Specifically, the content of flavonoid aglycones was significantly increased in the near-dead xylem, and the gene expression of metabolic pathways such as flavonoid glycoside hydrolysis, interxylary cork development and programmed apoptosis was significantly up-regulated. This study provided a theoretical basis for guiding the high-quality production of pith-decayed Scutellariae Radix.

Study on the targeted regulation of Scutellaria baicalensis leaf on glutamine-glutamate metabolism and glutathione synthesis in the liver of d-gal ageing rats

OBJECTIVES

Scutellaria baicalensis leaf (SLE), the above-ground part of the traditional Chinese medicine Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi, is rich in resources and contains a large number of flavonoids with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and neuroprotective functions. The present study evaluated the ameliorative effects and related mechanisms of SLE on d-gal-induced ageing rats, providing a theoretical basis for the exploitation of SLE.

METHODS

This experiment investigated the mechanism of SLE for anti-ageing by non-targeted metabonomics technology combined with targeted quantitative analysis and molecular biology technology.

KEY FINDINGS

Non-targeted metabonomics analysis showed that 39 different metabolites were screened out. Among them, 38 metabolites were regulated by SLE (0.4 g/kg), and 33 metabolites were regulated by SLE (0.8 g/kg). Through enrichment analysis, glutamine-glutamate metabolic pathway was identified as the key metabolic pathway. Subsequently, the results of targeted quantitative and biochemical analysis displayed that the contents of key metabolites and the activities of enzymes in glutamine-glutamate metabolic pathway and glutathione synthesis could be regulated by SLE. Furthermore, the results of Western blotting indicated that SLE significantly modulated the expression of Nrf2, GCLC, GCLM, HO-1, and NQO1 proteins.

CONCLUSION

To sum up, the anti-ageing mechanism of SLE was related to glutamine-glutamate metabolism pathway and Nrf2 signalling pathway.

Study of the Effect of Baicalin from Scutellaria baicalensis on the Gastrointestinal Tract Normoflora and Helicobacter pylori

The antimicrobial properties of baicalin against H. pylori and several probiotic cultures were evaluated. Baicalin was isolated from a dry plant extract obtained by extraction with water at 70 °C. For isolation, extraction was carried out with n-butanol and purification on a chromatographic column. The antimicrobial potential was assessed by evaluating changes in the optical density of the bacterial suspension during cultivation; additionally, the disk diffusion method was used. During the study, the baicalin concentrations (0.25, 0.5, and 1 mg/mL) and the pH of the medium in the range of 1.5-8.0 were tested. The test objects were: suspensions of H. pylori, Lactobacillus casei, L. brevis, Bifidobacterium longum, and B. teenis. It was found that the greater the concentration of the substance in the solution, the greater the delay in the growth of the strain zone. Thus, the highest antimicrobial activity against H. pylori was observed at pH 1.5-2.0 and a baicalin concentration of 1.00 mg/mL. In relation to probiotic strains, a stimulating effect of baicalin (1.00 mg/mL) on the growth of L. casei biomass at pH 1.5-2.0 was observed. The results open up the prospects for the use of baicalin and probiotics for the treatment of diseases caused by H. pylori.

Fourier transform infrared spectroscopic markers of the scorching degree of Scutellariae Radix related to the variation patterns of flavonoids and carbohydrates

Scutellariae Radix (SR) is a common herb in Asia and Europe. In the clinical practice of traditional Chinese medicine, the raw SR is often stir-baked to partly scorch to reduce the side effects (stomach discomfort, diarrhea, etc.) but enhance some desired effects (such as the hemostatic activity). The scorching degree is crucial to assure the safety and efficacy of the scorched SR. Under-scorching is insufficient to adapt the adverse and favorable activities, while over-scorching can destroy all activities. Up to now, the scorching degree of SR is still determined by the manual observation of colors. Since the visual judgement is vulnerable to personal knowledge and experience, it is difficult to control the optimization and consistence of the scorching degree of SR. This research was designed to explore the potential indicators that can exactly reflect the scorching degree of SR and be measured objectively and quantitatively. A total of 15 morphological and chemical properties as well as Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy were included to profile the variations of the SR slices that were stir-baked at different temperatures for different times. According to the principal component analysis and statistical tests, 10 properties showed close relationships with the scorching degree of SR. As the increase of the heating time at the same heating temperature, the yield, L*, a*, b*, sucrose, baicalin and wogonoside decreased continuously and showed the monotone variation patterns. Meanwhile, 5-HMF, baicalein and wogonin showed the inflection variation patterns, which means these properties increased in the earlier stage but decreased in the later stage during the scorching process. FTIR spectra also revealed the variations of flavonoids and carbohydrates. The scorching degree of SR can be determined by the intuitive observation of FTIR spectral peaks at 1738 cm^-1, 1705 cm^-1, 1611 cm^-1, 1586 cm^-1, 1450 cm^-1, 1410 cm^-1 and 1023 cm^-1. In summary, FTIR spectroscopy can be used for the rapid assessment of the scorching degree of SR, while the contents of flavonoid glycosides and aglycones may be used as the quality criteria of the scorched SR.

Similarities and differences between Ziqin and Kuqin in anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antioxidant activities and their core chemical composition based on the zebrafish model and spectrum-effect relationship

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Scutellaria baicalensis (SB) is a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). In the clinical application of TCM, SB has been divided into two specifications (Ziqin and Kuqin) for a long time. At present, the Chinese Pharmacopoeia Commission no longer distinguishes between the two. However, the two specifications of medicinal materials and pieces are still in circulation in the market.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This work aimed at investigating the similarities and differences between Ziqin and Kuqin in anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antioxidant activities and their material basis. It will provide a new angle for relevant regulations to formulate the specifications and standards of SB.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Here we investigated the similarities and differences between Ziqin and Kuqin in anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antioxidant activities related to four zebrafish models and three chemical tests. The chemical fingerprints of SB (Ziqin and Kuqin) were profiled by HPLC. Meanwhile, UHPLC-Q-TOF/MS was used to identify the chemical constituents of Ziqin and Kuqin. The main effect-related compounds of SB, Ziqin, and Kuqin were screened out by spectrum-effect relationship. Finally, six monomeric compounds were validated experimentally using the zebrafish inflammation model induced by CuSO₄.

RESULTS

Both Ziqin and Kuqin had significant anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antioxidant activities. Kuqin had better anti-inflammatory and analgesic activities, while Ziqin had better antioxidant activity. HPLC fingerprint and UHPLC-Q-TOF/MS evaluation showed that the chemical composition types and main components of Ziqin and Kuqin were basically the same, while the contents and proportions of chemical components in Ziqin and Kuqin were different. By spectrum-effect relationship, compounds X1, X2 (luteoloside), X3, X4 (baicalin), X6 (wogonoside), X7 (baicalein), X8 (wogonin), and X9 (oroxylin A) were the same active chemical constituents of Ziqin and Kuqin. The core components of anti-inflammatory and analgesia activities in Kuqin were compounds X1, X2, X3, X5, X6, X7, X8, and X9. The antioxidant core active components of Ziqin were compounds X2, X3, X4, X6, X7, and X9. Among them, luteoloside, baicalin, wogonoside, baicalein, wogonin, and oroxylin A were validated successfully with good anti-inflammatory effects.

CONCLUSIONS

This study revealed that Ziqin and kuqin have high similarity in chemical composition, but their proportions and active core components are different. This may be one of the main reasons why they have the same activity but different activity trends. These findings will help to improve the understanding of the different clinical applications of Ziqin and Kuqin, and provide a reference for the formulation of quality standards and their further research.

A novel strategy for active compound efficacy status identification in multi-tropism Chinese herbal medicine (Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi) based on multi-indexes spectrum-effect gray correlation analysis

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Bioactive substance identification is always the focal point and the main challenge in Chinese herbal medicine (CHM). Most CHM present multiple efficacies and multiple tropisms, which has improved the application accuracy of CHM, and is worthy of further study. In this article, the concept of "multi-tropism efficacy of CHM" has been proposed for the first time. In addition, it is hypothesized that the different components in CHM can be classified based on their efficacy status.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The spectrum-effect relationship between the fingerprint and efficacy was established to identify the efficacy status of components. This provided a practical, efficient and accurate way to identify the bioactive substances from a complex CHM system.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The network pharmacology approach was applied to preliminarily analyze the potential antibacterial compounds and mechanisms of HQ. Furthermore, its chemical fingerprint was established and the characteristic peaks were identified by LC-MS/MS. The antibacterial and anti-inflammatory bioactivities of HQ were determined to evaluate its pharmacological effect of heat-clearing and detoxification, and its anticoagulation activity was determined to evaluate its heat-clearing and tocolysis effects. The spectrum-effect relationships were assessed by gray correlation analysis to discriminate the status of active components in HQ with different efficacies.

RESULTS

Network pharmacology analysis revealed apigenin, wogonin, baicalein, acacetin, β-sitosterol, baicalin, eugenol, moslosooflavone, palmitic acid, oroxylin-A 7-O-glucuronide, and scutevulin as the potential active compounds responsible for the efficacy of HQ against both E. coli and S. aureus. The spectrum-effect relationship was utilized to reveal the orientation activities, with the results as follows: 1) The main basic-efficacy components in HQ with antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and anticoagulant effects were P5, P8, P9, P15, P18, P19, P20; while the general basic-efficacy components were P2, P3, P6, P7, P11, P14, P21, P22, P28. 2) The main efficacy-oriented components in HQ with antibacterial effects on E. coli were P1, P12, P17, while the general efficacy-oriented compound was P10, P24, P25, P26, P27; the main efficacy-oriented in HQ with antibacterial effects on S. aureus were P14 and the general efficacy-oriented components were P1, P12, P26, P29, P30, respectively. 3) The main efficacy-oriented components with anti-inflammatory activity were P14, P24, P25, P27, and P30, while the general efficacy-oriented components were P13, P23, P26. 4) The main efficacy-oriented compounds in HQ with effects on anticoagulation were P6 and P22; these acted by prolonging APTT through the intrinsic coagulation pathway and PT through the extrinsic coagulation pathway, respectively. 5) The pharmacodynamic status classification of Scutellaria baicalensis ingredients were confirmed by nine reference compounds exemplarily.

CONCLUSION

This work established a novel strategy for active compound efficacy status identification in multi-tropism Chinese herbal medicine (Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi) based on multi-indexes spectrum-effect gray correlation analysis, the method is scientific feasible and can be applied to the effective substances identification and quality control of other CHM.

Efficacy confirmation of Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi in the treatment of periodontitis via topical administration and active ingredients screening

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Periodontal disease is a complex inflammatory disease that seriously affects peoples' lives. Scutellaria radix (SR) is traditionally used as a folk medicine to clear away heat and dampness, purge fire and detoxification. Although it has been extensively used as a medicinal plant to treat a variety of inflammatory illnesses, the efficacy and active ingredient for topical administration in the treatment of periodontitis is unknown.

AIM OF STUDY

The aim of this study was to screen and validate the active ingredients in SR for the prevention and treatment of periodontitis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A ligature-induced periodontitis in rats was used to investigate the efficacy of topical administration of SR for the treatment of periodontitis, and the active fraction was screened after separation of the aqueous extract of SR into fractions of different polarities using a lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced cell model. Chromatographic fingerprints were established for 18 batches of SR by high performance liquid chromatography. The potential active components were screened using spectral effect relationship analysis and the target cell extraction method.

RESULTS

SR has good efficacy in the topical treatment of periodontitis, according to animal experiments. Five active ingredients were screened out and their anti-inflammatory activity was confirmed in vitro.

CONCLUSION

The main active compounds in the treatment of periodontitis via topical administration of SR were found and this provides an experimental basis for further studies on the pharmacodynamic material basis of SR, as well as reference for the comprehensive evaluation of SR quality and the development of substitute resources.

Effect of Huangqin decoction on regulating intestinal flora in colitis mice characterized as inhibition of the NOD2-dependent pathway

CONTEXT

Chinese herb Huangqin decoction (HQD) can regulate intestinal flora in ulcerative colitis (UC) mice.

OBJECTIVE

Our study clarifies the mechanism of HQD in regulating the intestinal flora of UC mice.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Male C57BL/6 mice were randomly divided into six groups: Control, Model (3% DSS), Sulfasalazine (500 mg/kg), HQD-L (250 mg/kg), HQD-M (500 mg/kg), and HQD-H (1000 mg/kg) groups. Measurement of body weight, colon length, DAI, and haematoxylin-eosin staining were conducted. FISH and 16S rDNA detected colonic bacterial infiltration and intestinal flora changes. The expression of RegIIIγ and PRRs (NOD2, TLR5, TLR4) were detected by FCM and WB, respectively. In addition, WB, qPCR, or IHC were used to detect the expression of NOD2, MyD88, RIP2, and NF-κB p65 in the colon. ELISA was used to determine cytokines.

RESULTS

Compared with the model group (DAI score, 2.38 ± 0.05; histological score, 4.08 ± 0.54), HQD treatment significantly reduced the DAI score (L, 2.16 ± 0.09; M, 1.45 ± 0.05; H, 1.18 ± 0.05) and histological score (L, 3.16 ± 0.82; M, 2.50 ± 0.81; H, 1.51 ± 0.76); restored the weight, the colonic length (p < 0.05). 16S rDNA identification showed HQD regulated the balance of intestinal flora. Moreover, HQD suppressed the expression of RegIIIγ (p < 0.05) and prevented colonic bacterial infiltration. Furthermore, WB results showed NOD2, and TLR4 were inhibited by HQD, especially NOD2 (p < 0.01). The data of WB, qPCR, and IHC demonstrated that the NOD2-dependent pathway was inhibited by HQD (p < 0.01).

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS

HQD (1000 mg/kg) regulates the intestinal flora of colitis mice, mainly characterized as inhibition of the NOD2-dependent pathway. These results indicate that HQD has potential.

Pharmacological properties of total flavonoids in Scutellaria baicalensis for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases

BACKGROUND

Scutellaria baicalensis, a medicinal herb belonging to the Lamiaceae family, has been recorded in the Chinese, European, and British Pharmacopoeias. The medicinal properties of this plant are attributed to the total flavonoids of Scutellaria baicalensis (TFSB), particularly the main component, baicalin. This study provides a systematic and comprehensive list of the identified TFSB components and their chemical structures. The quality control process, pharmacokinetics, clinical application, and safety of Scutellaria baicalensis are discussed, and its pharmacological effect on cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) is detailed. Finally, the future research trends and prospects of this medicinal plant are provided.

METHODS

The Chinese and English papers related to TFSB were collected from the PubMed and CNKI databases using the relevant keywords. To highlight the pharmacological mechanism, clinical application, and safety of TFSB, the collected articles were screened and classified based on their research content.

RESULTS

TFSB contains at least 100 different kinds of flavonoids, of which baicalin, baicalein, wogonin, wogonoside, scutellarin, and scutellarein are the main active ingredients. The preparation process of TFSB is relatively well established, and the extraction rate can be significantly increased by enzymatic pretreatment and ultrasonication. The low oral availability of TFSB may be effectively enhanced using nanoformulations. The available pharmacokinetic data show that flavonoid glycosides and aglycones with the same parent nucleus may be converted to structures that are conducive to absorption in vivo. Moreover, TFSB can protect against CVDs by inhibiting apoptosis, regulating oxidative stress response, participating in inflammatory response, protecting against myocardial fibrosis, inhibiting myocardial hypertrophy, and regulating blood vessels. In terms of clinical application and animal safety, the available studies show that TFSB can be applied in a wide range of clinical treatments and is safe to use is animals.

CONCLUSION

This article systematically reviews the therapeutic effect and underlying pharmacological mechanism of TFSB against CVDs. The available studies clearly suggest that TFSB has great potential for the treatment of CVDs and is worthy of in-depth research and development.

Post-Harvest Processing Methods Have Critical Roles in the Contents of Active Ingredients of Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi

To find the best post-harvest processing method for Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi, we explored the effects of fresh and traditional processing on the active ingredients in S. baicalensis and evaluated three drying techniques to determine the optimal post-harvest processing technique. We quantified four active ingredients (baicalin, baicalein, wogonoside, and wogonin) in 16 different processed S. baicalensis samples that were harvested from Tongchuan, Shaanxi province, by HPLC (high-performance liquid chromatography). In addition, we performed a similarity analysis (SA), a hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA), and a principal component analysis (PCA) on the common peaks in S. baicalensis that were identified by the HPLC fingerprints. Compared to the traditional processing method, the fresh processing method could better preserve the four active ingredients in S. baicalensis, meanwhile, the similarity analysis (0.997-1.000) showed that the fresh processing was more similar to the traditional processing, and it did not change the type of 18 active ingredients in S. baicalensis. The cluster analysis results showed that the shade drying and sun drying methods results were more similar to each other, while the oven drying (60 °C) method results were clustered into one category. According to the results of the principal component analysis, S9, S7, and S8 had higher scores, and they were relatively well processed under these processing settings. Fresh processing could be an alternative to traditional processing; the moisture content was reduced to 24.38% under the sun drying condition, and it was the optimal post-harvest processing solution for S. baicalensis.

Homeostatic regulation of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor-cytochrome P450 1a axis by Scutellaria baicalensis-Coptis chinensis herb pair and its main constituents

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Scutellaria baicalensis (SB) and Coptis chinensis (CC) are widely used traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for "heat-clearing and damp-drying" and "purging fire and detoxifying". SB-CC are commonly used as a herbal pair for synergistic treatment of various diseases such as bacteria-related infections, metabolic syndromes, and some inflammatory disorders. This herbal pair is commonly used in many famous TCM formula, like Huang-Lian-Jie-Du, Gegen-Qinlian, Banxia Xiexin decoction. Aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) plays an essential role in the disposition of both xenobiotics and endogenous substances through the induction of cytochrome P450 1A (CYP1A) enzymes. Regulation of the AHR-CYP1A axis is increasingly implicated in drug-drug and drug-herb interactions. Research on SB-CC for regulatory effect on the AHR-CYP1A axis is only limited to few compounds.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study aimed to systematically investigate the regulatory effect of SB-CC and its main constitutes on the AHR-CYP1A axis in vitro and in vivo.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The livers of mice treated with SB-CC extract were subjected to RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq). The key target genes related to drug metabolism were screened, and the differential expression genes (DEGs) were validated by qRT-PCR, Western blot, and enzyme activity assay. Luciferase reporter gene, qRT-PCR, and Western blot assays were used to determine whether SB-CC and their main constituents could activate AHR and regulate CYP1A expression in HepG2 cells. The effect of SB-CC on the pharmacokinetics of phenacetin, a CYP1A substrate, were further observed in mice to test the net effect of SB-CC on CYP1A functions. The potential CYP1A inhibitors in SB-CC were screened and their inhibitory mechanisms were also studied using human liver microsomes.

RESULTS

AHR and drug metabolism system, especially CYP1A1 and CYP1A2, were strongly affected in the liver of SB-CC-treated mice. These results were further validated by the findings that SB-CC increased CYP1A's mRNA, protein expression and activity in mouse liver. In HepG2 cells, SB, CC, baicalin, baicalein, chrysin, oroxylin A, berberine, coptisine and epiberberine increased CYP1A1 mRNA expression in an AHR-dependent way. Interestingly, SB-CC treatment for 14 days only slightly increased the systemic exposure of paracetamol in mice. In the CYP1A inhibition assay, SB, CC, baicalin, baicalein, wogonoside, wogonin, chrysin, oroxylin A, scutellarein, columbamine, coptisine, palmatine, epiberberine, and berberrubine inhibited CYP1A activity in different degree.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggested that SB-CC exerted dual regulatory effect on the AHR-CYP1A axis by increasing CYP1A expression but simultaneously inhibiting CYP1A activity, which may contribute to a tight modulation of AHR signaling for homeostatic control.

Advances in Anti-Cancer Activities of Flavonoids in Scutellariae radix: Perspectives on Mechanism

Despite encouraging progresses in the development of novel therapies, cancer remains the dominant cause of disease-related mortality and has become a leading economic and healthcare burden worldwide. Scutellariae radix (SR, Huangqin in Chinese) is a common herb used in traditional Chinese medicine, with a long history in treating a series of symptoms resulting from cancer, like dysregulated immune response and metabolic abnormalities. As major bioactive ingredients extracted from SR, flavonoids, including baicalein, wogonin, along with their glycosides (baicalin and wogonoside), represent promising pharmacological and anti-tumor activities and deserve extensive research attention. Emerging evidence has made great strides in elucidating the multi-targeting therapeutic mechanisms and key signaling pathways underlying the efficacious potential of flavonoids derived from SR in the field of cancer treatment. In this current review, we aim to summarize the pharmacological actions of flavonoids against various cancers in vivo and in vitro. Moreover, we also make a brief summarization of the endeavor in developing a drug delivery system or structural modification to enhance the bioavailability and biological activities of flavonoid monomers. Taken together, flavonoid components in SR have great potential to be developed as adjuvant or even primary therapies for the clinical management of cancers and have a promising prospect.

Study on the mechanism of Huangqin Decoction on rats with ulcerative colitis of damp-heat type base on mtDNA, TLR4, p-PI3K, p-Akt protein expression and microbiota

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Huangqin decoction (HQD), composed of Scutellaria(Huangqin), Peony(Shaoyao), Liquorice(Gancao) and Jujube(Dazao), is a traditional Chinese medicine prescription, originated from treatise on Febrile Diseases, has the functions of clearing heat, stopping benefits and relieving pain. It is the original prescription for treating heat and relieving dysentery, and is commonly used in clinic for diarrhea and other diseases. In ulcerative colitis, damp-heat syndrome is the most common. However, its mechanism of action is not completely clear.

AIMS OF THE REVIEW

The purpose of the research is to investigate the protective effect of HQD on ulcerative colitis rats and the regulation effect of mitochondrial DNA, TLR4, p-Akt, p-PI3K protein and microbiota.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The effects of HQD anti-UC were investigated by fluorescence quantitative PCR, cytokine level and histopathological analysis in DSS-induced ulcerative colitis (UC) rats. The content of mtDNA in colon epithelial cells of rats in each group was detected by fluorescence quantitative PCR, p-PI3K, p-Akt and TLR4 protein expressions in colon tissues of rats in each group were detected by Western blotting. IL-6, IL-17 and IL-23 inflammatory factors were detected by ELISA. The effect of HQD on intestinal microbiota of rats with ulcerative colitis was studied by high-throughput sequencing technology, and the correlation between mtDNA level and inflammatory factors as well as protein expression in colonic epithelium of rats with ulcerative colitis was analyzed by SPSS23.0.

RESULTS

HQD significantly alleviated UC symptoms by improving the mucosal intestinal epithelial cell structure, mental state, hair gloss, fecal occult blood, lamina propria intestinal glands and inflammatory cell infiltration. And HQD reduced the pro-inflammatory cytokines in the colonic epithelium of UC rats Production of IL-6, IL-17 and IL-23. The HE stained section of colon tissue showed a complete intestinal epithelial mucosal layer structure. The structure of epithelial cells was more normal and abundant. There were more goblet cells in lamina propria adenoma, which improved the infiltration of inflammatory cells. HQD significantly inhibited the mtDNA content in rat colonic epithelial tissue, and significantly inhibited the expression of TLR4, p-PI3K and p-Akt inflammatory signaling pathways. The results of the microbiota experiment showed that the abundance of HQD in the phylum Firmicutes increased, and the number of Bacteroides phylum decreased (p < 0.05). At the genus level, HQD significantly increased Lactobacillus and Firmicutes Bacteroides, while Treponema and Bacteroides were significantly reduced (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

HQD has a certain protective effect on rats with damp heat ulcerative colitis. Its mechanism may be related to regulating the expression of p-PI3K, p-Akt and TLR4 proteins, mitochondrial DNA as well as microbiota.

Deciphering the pharmacological mechanisms of Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi on oral leukoplakia by combining network pharmacology, molecular docking and experimental evaluations

BACKGROUND

Oral leukoplakia (OLK), an uncharacterized pathological condition that occurs as a white patch in the oral mucosa, is the most common precancerous condition. Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi (SBG) is a medicinal plant with a wide range of pharmacological effects. Increased evidence shows that SBG has potential therapeutic effects on OLK. However, the therapeutic mechanisms of SBG against OLK have not yet been completely elucidated.

PURPOSE

This study aimed to clarify the active components and multi-target mechanisms of SBG against OLK via network pharmacology, molecular docking and experimental evaluations.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

The active components and related targets of SBG were screened by the TCMSP database and Swiss Target Prediction database. Potential therapeutic targets of OLK were collected using the GeneCards and OMIM databases. Then, we established protein-protein interaction (PPI), compound-target-disease (C-T-D), and compound-target-pathway (C-T-P) networks by Cytoscape to identify the main components, core targets, and pharmacological pathways of SBG against OLK via applying data mining techniques and topological parameters. Metascape database was utilized for GO and KEGG pathway analysis. Molecular docking techniques were used to estimate the binding force between the components and the hub genes. Subsequently, a series of in vitro experiments, specifically CCK-8 assay, clone formation assay, wound healing assay, flow cytometry, RT-qPCR and western blotting were conducted for further verification.

RESULTS

There were 25 active components and 31 related target genes in SBG against OLK. PPI analysis showed that Akt1, VEGFA, EGFR, HIF1A and PTGS2 shared the highest centrality among all target genes. KEGG pathway analysis found that PI3K-Akt signaling pathway may occupy core status in the anti-OLK system. Molecular docking results showed that the main active components of SBG had a strong binding affinity to the hub genes. In vitro experiments showed that the leading component baicalein may inhibit proliferation, block cells in the S phase, induce DOK cell apoptosis, and downregulate the mRNA expression of 5 hub genes by inhibiting PI3K/Akt signaling pathway activation.

CONCLUSION

The most predominant component of SBG against OLK was baicalein and the key pathway was PI3K/Akt. The main components and hub genes had robust binding abilities. In vitro experiments showed that baicalein could inhibit the proliferation of DOK cells, induce apoptosis, block the cell cycle, and inhibit the mRNA expression level of the hub genes by inhibiting the PI3K/Akt pathway.

Huangqin decoction ameliorates DSS-induced ulcerative colitis: Role of gut microbiota and amino acid metabolism, mTOR pathway and intestinal epithelial barrier

BACKGROUND

The clinical treatment of ulcerative colitis (UC) is limited. A traditional Chinese medicinal formula, Huangqin decoction (HQD), is chronicled in Shang Han Lun and is widely used to ameliorate gastrointestinal disorders, such as UC; however, its mechanism is yet to be clarified.

PURPOSE

The present study aimed to investigate the effect of HQD on 7-day colitis induced by 3% dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) in mice and further explore the inhibitory effect of metabolites on DSS-damaged FHC cells.

METHODS

The therapeutic efficacy of HQD was evaluated in a well-established DSS-induced colitis mice model. The clinical symptoms were analyzed, and biological samples were collected for microscopic examination, metabolomics, metagenomics, and the evaluation of the epithelial barrier function. The mechanism of metabolites regulated by HQD was evaluated in the DSS-induced FHC cell damage model. The samples were collected to detect the physiological functions of the cells.

RESULTS

HQD suppressed the inflammation of DSS-induced colitis in vivo, attenuated DSS-induced clinical manifestations, reversed colon length reduction, and reduced histological injury. After HQD treatment, the DSS-induced gut dysbiosis was modulated, and the gut microbiota achieved a new equilibrium state. In addition, HQD activated the mTOR signaling pathway by upregulating amino acid metabolism. Significant phosphorylation of S6 and 4E-BP1 ameliorated intestinal epithelial barrier dysfunction. Moreover, HQD-regulated metabolites protected the epithelial barrier integrity by inhibiting DSS-induced apoptosis of FHC cells and regulating the proteins affecting apoptosis and cell-cell junction.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings indicated that the mechanism of HQD was related to regulating the gut microbiota and amino acid metabolism, activating the mTOR signaling pathway, and protecting the intestinal mucosal barrier integrity.

Antifibrotic activities of Scutellariae Radix extracts and flavonoids: Comparative proteomics reveals distinct and shared mechanisms

BACKGROUND

Scutellariae Radix (SR), the root of Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi, and SR flavonoids have antifibrotic activities. It remains obscure, however, amongst SR aqueous extract (SRA), SR methanolic extract (SRM) and five major SR flavonoids (baicalein, baicalin, wogonoside, wogonin and oroxyloside), which ones are the most promising antifibrotics and what their mechanisms are.

PURPOSE

To compare the antifibrotic activities of SR extracts and flavonoids, and the proteomic signatures of selected SR extract and flavonoid, versus IN1130 phosphate, an antifibrotic positive control (abbreviated as IN1130), in TGF-β1-induced in vitro model of fibrosis in NRK-49F renal fibroblasts.

METHODS

Isobaric labelling-based mass spectrometry was used for proteomic studies. Differentially expressed proteins were further analyzed using Gene Ontology annotation enrichment, protein-protein interaction network analysis and pathway analysis. Selected proteins of interest were validated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

RESULTS

Baicalein was the SR flavonoid with the best efficacy-toxicity ratio. SRM contained 8-fold more flavonoids and was more potently antifibrotic than SRA. Proteomic analysis of cells treated by TGF-β1, with or without baicalein (40 and 80 μM), SRM (40 and 80 μg/ml) and IN1130 (1 μM) suggested that baicalein, SRM and IN1130 all repressed TGF-β1-induced ribosomal proteins in cell lysates, while baicalein and SRM, but not IN1130, regulated the intracellular lysosome pathway; secretomic analysis suggested that 40 and 80 μg/ml SRM and 80 μM baicalein, but not IN1130 and 40 μM baicalein increased ribosomal proteins in conditioned media, whereas only baicalein regulated the lysosome pathway. ELISA verified secretomic findings that baicalein, SRM and IN1130 repressed TGF-β1-induced PAI-1 (Serpine1), Plod2, Ctgf (Ccn2), Ccl2 and Ccl7; baicalein and IN1130, but not SRM, reversed TGF-β1-induced Cyr61 (Ccn1) and Tsku; only baicalein reversed TGF-β1 repression of Mmp3; only IN1130 reversed TGF-β1-repressed Nov (Ccn3). ELISA validated cell-lysate proteomic findings that baicalein, SRM and IN1130 all reversed TGF-β1-induced Enpp1; only IN1130 reversed TGF-β1-induced Impdh2 and Sqstm1 and TGF-β1-repressed Aldh3a1. Baicalein and SRM induced Ccdc80, while only baicalein induced Tfrc.

CONCLUSION

Baicalein, SRM and IN1130 repress TGF-β1-induced fibrogenesis in renal fibroblasts by regulating overlapping protein targets and biological pathways. Our findings offer a comprehensive view of shared, drug- and dose-specific pharmacological and toxicological mechanisms and provide a valuable resource for further research and development of more efficacious and safer antifibrotics.

[Stability research of Xiaoer Ganmaoning Oral Liquid based on chromatographic peak matching and image sensory evaluation]

The high performance liquid chromatography(HPLC) characteristic chromatogram of Xiaoer Ganmaoning Oral Liquid(oral liquid for short) was established. The medicinal materials corresponding to characteristic peaks, their index components and ranges of similarity with the reference chromatograms were clarified. The similarity between the characteristic chromatograms of 10 batches of the oral liquid and the reference chromatogram was higher than 0.994. Eighteen characteristic peaks were identified, which were derived from different medicinal materials including Scutellariae Radix, Arctii Fructus, Lonicerae Japonicae Flos, Gardeniae Fructus and Forsythiae Fructus. Further, 11 characteristic peaks were assigned by the comparison with reference substances as chlorogenic acid, neochlorogenic acid, cryptochlorogenic acid, isochlorogenic acid A, isochlorogenic acid C, baicalin, baicalein, wogonin, scutellarin, forsythiaside A and arctiin. Also, the characteristic chromatogram of precipitate in the oral liquid was established, and the similarity between characteristic chromatograms of 10 batches of the precipitate and the reference chromatogram was higher than 0.940. The 14 characteristic peaks originating from the precipitate and those from the oral liquid were consistent in retention time, and the content of all index components in the precipitate was lower than 5% of that in the oral liquid. Moreover, the stability of precipitate during the accelerated stability test was explored with filtration and Matlab-based image sensory evaluation. The precipitate mass and precipitation degree both increased over the stability test duration significantly. The stability of the oral liquid was used as a model system in this study to establish the integrated quality control system which related to medicinal materials, preparations and precipitate with HPLC characteristic chromatograms and image sensory evaluation, which lays a foundation for the exploration of the quantity value transfer of the oral liquid.

The root extract of Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi promotes β cell function and protects from apoptosis by inducing autophagy

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi (SBG) is a traditional Chinese medicine with a remarkable remedial effect on diabetes mellitus. However, the precise mechanism involved has not been fully elucidated yet. Here, we aimed to explore the anti-diabetes effects of its traditional decoction in vitro and elucidate the autophagy-related mechanism.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study was designed to investigate the effects of the water extract of SBG (WSB) on the β cell viability, insulin secretion and the mechanism related to autophagy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Detection of insulin secretion using an enzyme immunoassay method, and analysis of apoptosis rate in MIN-6 cells by the flow cytometry with PI and Annexin V-FITC staining. In addition, the autophagy levels and pathways were evaluated from the number of autophagosomes and the expression of autophagy-related proteins. 3-Methyladenine (3-MA) was used as the autophagy inhibitor. Autophagosomes were observed using a confocal microscopy, and autophagy-related proteins (LC3-II/I, p62, S6k, p-AMPK/AMPK, p-mTOR/mTOR) were measured by Western blot.

RESULTS

Here we detected a significant increase in insulin release from MIN-6 cells after treated with WSB. It is about 1.6 times as much as that of the control group with 2.8 mM glucose and 2.2 times more than the 16.8 mM glucose group. At the same time, WSB increased the number of autophagosomes and the ratio of LC3 Ⅱ/LC3 Ⅰ, indicating that autophagy were activated in MIN-6 cells. When inhibiting autophagy, there was no significant difference in insulin release between the two groups. The apoptotic rate of the high glucose group was as high as 33.23%. After pretreatment with WSB, the apoptotic rate decreased to 14.95%, and increased to 22.57% when treated with 3-MA and WSB. At the same time, WSB treatment enhanced the phosphorylation of AMPK, but had no significant effect on the expression of mTOR and S6K.

CONCLUSION

Our data suggested that WSB increased insulin secretion and reduced apoptosis under high glucose by inducing autophagy through the AMPK pathway, which elucidated the mechanism of WSB in the treatment of diabetes.

Identification of potential regulating effect of baicalin on NFκB/CCL2/CCR2 signaling pathway in rats with cerebral ischemia by antibody-based array and bioinformatics analysis

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Baicalin is one of the major bioactive compounds extracted from the root of Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi, which was used to treat cerebral ischemia for thounds of years. However, its biological mechanisms remains to be further explored.

AIM OF THE REVIEW

This study aims to identify potential biological mechanisms of baicalin against cerebral ischemia combining antibody-based array and bioinformatics analysis.

METHODS

A rat model of middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) was constructed. Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into three groups: control group, ischemic model group, and baicalin 100 mg/kg treatment group respectively. Bederson score and 2, 3, 5-triphenyl tetrazolium chloride (TTC) staining were examined to evaluate the pharmacodynamics of baicalin treatment. Antibody-based array technology, enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), western-blot, molecular docking, transcription factor perdiction, hematoxylin and eosin (H&E), and immunofluorescence staining were used to study the regulation of baicalin on inflammatory response after cerebral ischemia in vivo. LPS-induced RAW 264.7 macrophage inflammation model was prepared to observe the anti-inflammatory effect of baicalin in vitro.

RESULTS

Baicalin (100 mg/kg) reduced neurological injury score, cerebral infarction volume, and necrotic cells in MCAO rats. Baicalin inhibited the expression of CCL2, and reduced the phosphorylation levels of p65, IκBα protein and down-regulated level of CCR2. Besides, baicalin could bond to CCR2 directly, which prevented CCL2 from binding to CCR2. Furthermore, baicalin down-regulated the number of monocytes in the peripheral blood and improved the spleen index post-cerebral ischemia. In vitro, baicalin significantly inhibited the secretion of NO, IL6, TNFα, and CCL2 in macrophages and promoted the secretion of IL13, IFNG, and IL1a.

CONCLUSIONS

Baicalin inhibited cerebral ischemia-induced activation of the NFκB/CCL2/CCR2 pathway with multiple target effect. These data promote the therapeutic utilization of baicalin in preventing cerebral ischemia clinically.

Therapeutic effect of baicalin on inflammatory bowel disease: A review

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Baicalin (BI) is an important biologically active flavonoid isolated from the root of Scutellaria radix (Huang Qin). Traditionally Scutellaria radix was the common drug of dysentery. As the main flavonoid compound, there is a distribution tendency of baicalin to the intestinal tract and it has a protective effect on the gastrointestinal tract.

AIM OF THE REVIEW

This review aims to compile up-to-date and comprehensive information on the efficacy of baicalin in vitro and in vivo, about treating inflammatory bowel disease. Relevant information on the therapeutic potential of baicalin against inflammatory bowel disease was collected from the Web of Science, Pubmed and so on. Additionally, a few books and magazines were also consulted to get the important information.

RESULTS

The mechanisms of baicalin against inflammatory bowel disease mainly include anti-inflammation, antioxidant, immune regulation, maintenance of intestinal barrier, maintenance of intestinal flora balance. Also, BI can relieve parts of extraintestinal manifestations (EIMs), and prevent colorectal cancer.

CONCLUSION

Baicalin determined the promising therapeutic prospects as potential supplementary medicines for the treatment of IBD.

Two types of O-methyltransferase are involved in biosynthesis of anticancer methoxylated 4'-deoxyflavones in Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi

The medicinal plant Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi is rich in specialized 4'-deoxyflavones, which are reported to have many health-promoting properties. We assayed Scutellaria flavones with different methoxyl groups on human cancer cell lines and found that polymethoxylated 4'-deoxyflavones, like skullcapflavone I and tenaxin I have stronger ability to induce apoptosis compared to unmethylated baicalein, showing that methoxylation enhances bioactivity as well as the physical properties of specialized flavones, while having no side-effects on healthy cells. We investigated the formation of methoxylated flavones and found that two O-methyltransferase (OMT) families are active in the roots of S. baicalensis. The Type II OMTs, SbPFOMT2 and SbPFOMT5, decorate one of two adjacent hydroxyl groups on flavones and are responsible for methylation on the C6, 8 and 3'-hydroxyl positions, to form oroxylin A, tenaxin II and chrysoeriol respectively. The Type I OMTs, SbFOMT3, SbFOMT5 and SbFOMT6 account mainly for C7-methoxylation of flavones, but SbFOMT5 can also methylate baicalein on its C5 and C6-hydroxyl positions. The dimethoxylated flavone, skullcapflavone I (found naturally in roots of S. baicalensis) can be produced in yeast by co-expressing SbPFOMT5 plus SbFOMT6 when the appropriately hydroxylated 4'-deoxyflavone substrates are supplied in the medium. Co-expression of SbPFOMT5 plus SbFOMT5 in yeast produced tenaxin I, also found in Scutellaria roots. This work showed that both type I and type II OMT enzymes are involved in biosynthesis of methoxylated flavones in S. baicalensis.

Screen of anti-migraine active compounds from Duijinsan by spectrum-effect relationship analysis and molecular docking

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Duijinsan (DJS) is a famous Chinese medicine prescription composed of Radix scutellariae (RS) and Rhei Radix (RRR), which has been mainly used for treating migraine.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study aimed to uncover the anti-migraine active compounds from DJS and preliminary predicted the pharmacological mechanism by evaluating the spectrum-effect relationship between high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) fingerprints and anti-migraine effects of Duijinsan (DJS) extract combined with molecular docking.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

HPLC and LC-MS were applied for chemical analyses of DJS extracts in different proportions. Inhibition of DJS extracts on trigeminal nerve cell releasing calcitonin gene related peptide (CGRP) experiment was performed. The active compounds were screened by spectrum-effect relationship analysis and confirmed by molecular docking and the activities of major predicted compounds were validated in vitro.

RESULTS

Twenty-six common peaks were assigned and identified from the fingerprints of different proportions DJS extracts. In vitro experimental results showed that DJS extracts inhibited inflammation and release of CGRP from trigeminal nerve cells. Five predicted active compounds, Chrysin 6-C-arabinoside 8-C-glucoside, Chrysin 6-C-glucoside 8-C-arabinoside, baicalin, Chrysin-7-O-Beta-D-glucoronide and Oroxylin A 7-O-glucuronide were sorted out according to spectrum-effect relationship analysis and molecular docking comprehensively. In vitro validation experiments showed that all the predicted compounds inhibited the CGRP releasing and the activation of TRPV1 channel. Baicalin, chrysin-7-O-β-D-glucuronide and Oroxylin A-7-glucoronide significantly inhibited the activation of TRPV1 channel.

CONCLUSION

Chrysin 6-C-arabinoside 8-C-glucoside, Chrysin 6-C-glucoside 8-C-arabinoside, baicalin, Chrysin-7-O-Beta-D-glucoronide and Oroxylin A 7-O-glucuronide which can inhibit the CGRP releasing and the activation of TRPV1 channel were screened as the anti-migraine active compounds by spectrum-effect relationship analysis and molecular docking.

Simple and Rapid Method for Wogonin Preparation and Its Biotransformation

Wogonin is one of the most active flavonoids from Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi (baikal skullcap), widely used in traditional Chinese medicine. It exhibits a broad spectrum of health-promoting and therapeutic activities. Together with baicalein, it is considered to be the one of main active ingredients of Chinese medicines for the management of COVID-19. However, therapeutic use of wogonin may be limited due to low market availability connected with its low content in baikal skullcap and lack of efficient preparative methods for obtaining this compound. Although the amount of wogonin in skullcap root often does not exceed 0.5%, this material is rich in wogonin glucuronide, which may be used as a substrate for wogonin production. In the present study, a rapid, simple, cheap and effective method of wogonin and baicalein preparation, which provides gram quantities of both flavonoids, is proposed. The obtained wogonin was used as a substrate for biotransformation. Thirty-six microorganisms were tested in screening studies. The most efficient were used in enlarged scale transformations to determine metabolism of this xenobiotic. The major phase I metabolism product was 4′-hydroxywogonin—a rare flavonoid which exhibits anticancer activity—whereas phase II metabolism products were glucosides of wogonin. The present studies complement and extend the knowledge on the effect of substitution of A- and B-ring on the regioselective glycosylation of flavonoids catalyzed by microorganisms.

Effects of Huangqin Decoction on ulcerative colitis by targeting estrogen receptor alpha and ameliorating endothelial dysfunction based on system pharmacology

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Huangqin Decoction (HQD), a traditional Chinese medicinal (TCM) formula chronicled in Shang Han Lun, has been used to treat gastrointestinal diseases for nearly 1800 years.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effects and underlying mechanisms of HQD on ulcerative colitis (UC).

METHODS

The bioactive compounds in HQD were obtained from the traditional Chinese medicine systems pharmacology database. Then, the HQD and UC-related targets were analyzed by establishing HQD-Compounds-Targets (H-C-T) and protein-protein interaction (PPI) networks. Enrichment analysis was used for further study. The candidate targets for the effects of HQD on UC were validated using a dextran sulfate sodium-induced UC mouse experiment.

RESULTS

The results showed that 51 key targets were gained by matching 284 HQD-related targets and 837 UC-related targets. Combined with H-C-T and PPI network analyses, the key targets were divided into endothelial growth, inflammation and signal transcription-related targets. Further experimental validation showed that HQD targeted estrogen receptor alpha (ESR1) and endothelial growth factor receptors to relieve endothelial dysfunction, thereby improving intestinal barrier function. The expression of inflammatory cytokines and signal transducers was suppressed by HQD treatment and inflammation was inhibited.

CONCLUSIONS

HQD may acts on UC via the regulation of targets and pathways related to improving the intestinal mucosal barrier and ameliorating endothelial dysfunction. Additionally, ERS1 may be a new target to explore the mechanisms of UC.

Extract of Scutellaria baicalensis induces semaphorin 3A production in human epidermal keratinocytes

In a disease-state-dependent manner, the histamine-resistant itch in dry skin-based skin diseases such as atopic dermatitis (AD) and xerosis is mainly due to hyperinnervation in the epidermis. Semaphorin 3A (Sema3A) is a nerve repulsion factor expressed in keratinocytes and it suppresses nerve fiber elongation in the epidermis. Our previous studies have shown that Sema3A ointment inhibits epidermal hyperinnervation and scratching behavior and improves dermatitis scores in AD model mice. Therefore, we consider Sema3A as a key therapeutic target for improving histamine-resistant itch in AD and xerosis. This study was designed to screen a library of herbal plant extracts to discover compounds with potential to induce Sema3A in normal human epidermal keratinocytes (NHEKs) using a reporter gene assay, so that positive samples were found. Among the positive samples, only the extract of S. baicalensis was found to consistently increase Sema3A levels in cultured NHEKs in assays using quantitative real-time PCR and ELISA. In evaluation of reconstituted human epidermis models, the level of Sema3A protein in culture supernatants significantly increased by application of the extract of S. baicalensis. In addition, we investigated which components in the extract of S. baicalensis contributed to Sema3A induction and found that baicalin and baicalein markedly increased the relative luciferase activity, and that baicalein had higher induction activity than baicalin. Thus, these findings suggest that S. baicalensis extract and its compounds, baicalin and baicalein, may be promising candidates for improving histamine-resistant itch via the induction of Sema3A expression in epidermal keratinocytes.

Amelioration of hyperglycaemia and hyperlipidaemia by adjusting the interplay between gut microbiota and bile acid metabolism: Radix Scutellariae as a case

BACKGROUND

Our previous clinical research showed that the interaction between gut microbiota and bile acids (BAs) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) changed significantly. We hypothesized that T2DM could be improved by adjusting this interaction mediated by farnesoid X receptor (FXR). T2DM belongs to the category of "xiaoke" in traditional Chinese medicine. Radix scutellariae has the effects of clearing away heat and eliminating dampness, curing jaundice and quenching thirst and is widely used alone or in combination with other medicines for the treatment of T2DM in China and throughout Asia. Additionally, the interaction between Radix scutellariae and gut microbiota may influence its efficacy in the treatment of T2DM.

PURPOSE

This study chose Radix scutellariae to validate that T2DM could improve by adjusting the interaction between gut microbiota and bile acid metabolism.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Radix scutellariae water extract (WESB) was administered to a T2DM rat model established by a high-fat diet combined with streptozotocin. The body weight and blood glucose and insulin levels were measured. The levels of serum lipids, creatinine, uric acid, albumin and total bile acid were also detected. Changes in the pathology and histology of the pancreas, liver and kidney were observed by haematoxylin-eosin staining. The 16S rRNAs of gut microbiota were sequenced, and the faecal and serum BAs were determined by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry. The expression levels of BA metabolism-associated proteins in the liver and intestine were evaluated by immunoblot analysis.

RESULTS

The results showed that WESB improved hyperglycaemia, hyperlipaemia, and liver and kidney damage in T2DM rats. In addition, the abundances of key gut microbiota and the concentrations of certain secondary BAs in faeces and serum were restored. Moreover, there was a significant correlation between the restored gut microbiota and BAs, which might be related to the activation of liver cholesterol 7α-hydroxylase (CYP7A1) and the inhibition of FXR expression in the intestine rather than the liver.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provided new ideas for the prevention or treatment of clinical diabetes and its complications by adjusting the interaction between gut microbiota and bile acid metabolism.

Baicalin Protects Against Acute Pancreatitis Involving JNK Signaling Pathway via Regulating miR-15a

Acute pancreatitis (AP) is a kind of reversible inflammatory process of the exocrine pancreas. During the process, systemic inflammatory syndromes are involved, which relates closely to inflammatory mediators. Baicalin is a type of flavone compound extracted from Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi and exhibits anti-inflammation effect in several cancers. In this study, baicalin displayed a suppressing role on IL-1[Formula: see text], TNF[Formula: see text] and IL-6 in both cell and mice models. Necrosis was decreased in the baicalin treatment group and got a markedly lower pathological score. In this study, miR-15a is the core intermediate in baicalin regulation, which increased through baicalin treatment and protected pancreas cells and tissues, inhibiting the JNK signaling pathway by targeting MAP2K4. The long non-coding RNA MALAT1 is also a direct target of miR-15a and forms a competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network with MAP2K4, which can be regulated by baicalin. In addition, upstream genes, including CDC42 and MAP3K1, were also regulated by baicalin, of which CDC42 was confirmed to form the second ceRNA network with MALAT1 and miR-15a. In conclusion, baicalin exhibits therapeutic activity towards AP by pumping up miR-15a level and inhibiting CDC42/MAP3K1, which affects AP as a brake by targeting MAP2K4 and inhibiting the JNK signaling pathway.

An integrated strategy for profiling the chemical components of Scutellariae Radix and their exogenous substances in rats by ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography/quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry

RATIONALE

Traditional Chinese medicines (TCMs) attract worldwide attention because of their effects in clinical application recorded in China historical ancient codes and in records, such as 'Treatise on Febrile Diseases'. With the developments of drug analysis and research, evaluating the in vivo substances in TCMs has become of great importance. Scutellariae Radix (SR, named as huang-qing in China), the root of Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi, has shown favorable clinical effects and safety in the treatment of infection diseases; however, its in vivo compounds are unclear and need detailed investigation.

METHODS

An ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography/quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UHPLC/QTOF MS) method coupled to an integrated strategy involving diagnostic ions, neutral losses and a prediction platform was used to explore the constituents of SR, and their exogenous substances in rats.

RESULTS

A total of 118 chemical constituents mainly featuring five chemical structure types (flavone C-glycosides, flavone O-glycosides, free flavones, flavanones and phenylethanoid glycosides) were identified or tentatively characterized in SR, and 175 xenobiotics (68 prototypes and 107 metabolites) were profiled in rat plasma, urine, bile and feces after ingestion of SR. The metabolites were classified into four related chemical groups: flavone C-glycosides, flavone O-glycosides, flavanones and phenylethanoid glycosides. Phase II metabolism reactions, such as glucuronidation and sulfation, were the major metabolic reactions in addition to phase I reactions of hydrolysis and hydrogenation. The corresponding main metabolic features of SR in rats were also elucidated.

CONCLUSIONS

The metabolism of SR, as a whole, was systemically revealed for the first time, and our work also provided meaningful information for pharmacokinetics studies and pharmacological analysis of SR in future work.

Herbal pair Huangqin-Baishao: mechanisms underlying inflammatory bowel disease by combined system pharmacology and cell experiment approach

BACKGROUND

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a severe digestive system condition, characterized by chronic and relapsing inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract. Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi (Huangqin, HQ) and Paeonia lactiflora Pall (Baishao, BS) from a typical herbal synergic pair in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for IBD treatments. However, the mechanisms of action for the synergy are still unclear. Therefore, this paper aimed to predict the anti-IBD targets and the main active ingredients of the HQ-BS herbal pair.

METHODS

A systems pharmacology approach was used to identify the bioactive compounds and to delineate the molecular targets and potential pathways of HQ-BS herbal pair. Then, the characteristics of the candidates were analyzed according to their oral bioavailability and drug-likeness indices. Finally, gene enrichment analysis with DAVID Bioinformatics Resources was performed to identify the potential pathways associated with the candidate targets.

RESULTS

The results showed that, a total of 38 active compounds were obtained from HQ-BS herbal pair, and 54 targets associated with IBD were identified. Gene Ontology and pathway enrichment analysis yielded the top 20 significant results with 54 targets. Furthermore, the integrated IBD pathway revealed that the HQ-BS herbal pair probably acted in patients with IBD through multiple mechanisms of regulation of the nitric oxide biosynthetic process and anti-inflammatory effects. In addition, cell experiments were carried out to verify that the HQ-BS herbal pair and their Q-markers could attenuate the levels of nitric oxide (NO), prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated THP-1-derived macrophage inflammation. In particular, the crude materials exerted a much better anti-inflammatory effect than their Q-markers, which might be due to their synergistic effect.

CONCLUSION

This study provides novel insight into the molecular pathways involved in the mechanisms of the HQ-BS herbal pair acting on IBD.

Complexity of active medicinal ingredients in radix scutellariae with sodium hydrosulfite exposure

Both plants and animals are living things made up of similar cells as well as organelles, and their essence of life is the same. However, plants face more environmental stress than animals and generate excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS), a group of small molecules that can harm proteins, necessitating distinctive metabolic processes. Secondary metabolites in plants are a group of chemical components that can eliminate ROS and can also exhibit medicinal properties; therefore, herbal medicines are often closely linked to the ecological significance of secondary metabolites. Why plants contain so many, not few, active medicinal ingredients is unknown. The root of Scutellaria baicalensis, a popular herbal medicine, is rich in various flavonoids with diverse structural features. Sodium hydrosulfite (Na₂S₂O₄) can produce O˙^-₂ radicals and induce physical conditions under environmental stress. Using UHPLC-ESI-Q-TOF-MS/MS analysis, a total of 25 different compounds were identified in the roots of S. baicalensis between the Na₂S₂O₄ groups and suitable conditions. Based on the results of the t-test (P<0.05) performed for the groups and ions with values of VIP ≥ 2, the most significantly different chemical markers with Na₂S₂O₄ treatment were shikimic acid, citric acid, baicalin, wogonoside, baicalein, wogonin, 3,5,7,2',6'-pentahydroxyflavanone, 5,2',6'-trihydroxy-7,8-dimethoxy flavone, chrysin, eriodictyol, 5,8-dihydroxy-6,7 -dimethoxy flavone, skullcapflavone Ⅱ, and 5,7-dihydroxy-6,8,2',3'-tetrame thoxyflavone, and most of them were free flavonoids with many phenolic hydroxyl or methoxyl groups and characteristically high antioxidant activities. S. baicalensis roots modified their ability to eliminate ROS and maintained the equilibrium of ROS through the multitudinous biosynthesis and conversion of flavonoids, which is similar to the equilibrium established by an intricate buffer solution and perfectly explains the diversity and complexity of medicinal plant ingredients.

Oroxyloside ameliorates acetaminophen-induced hepatotoxicity by inhibiting JNK related apoptosis and necroptosis

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Oroxyloside is a natural flavonoid isolated from Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi (Lamiaceae) which is a Chinese herb widely used for liver diseases. However, its mechanisms on protecting against drug induced liver injury has not been investigated yet.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To investigate the protecting effects and the primary mechanisms of oroxyloside on acetaminophen (APAP)-induced liver injury.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

After a 12 h fasting period with free access to water, C57BL/6 mice were injected with APAP (300 mg/kg) intragastrically (i.g.) and 1 h later with oroxyloside (100 mg/kg, i.g.). When mice sacrificed, blood samples were collected from fundus venous plexus and liver tissues were collected. In addition, cells were incubated with 10 mM APAP alone and 10 mM APAP combined with 100 μM oroxyloside for 24 h. ELISA, TUNEL assay, qRT-PCR et al. were used to assess the effect of oroxyloside on ameliorating APAP-induced hepatotoxicity in vitro and in vivo. Western bolt and immunohistochemistry were used in the signaling pathway analysis.

RESULTS

Oroxyloside administration significantly decreased the accumulations of CYP2E1, CYP1A2, IL-6, IL-1β, ALT and AST induced by APAP in vivo. In addition, oroxyloside inhibited the APAP-induced JNK related apoptosis by enhancing the antioxidant defenses, reversing ER-stress and keeping the mito-balance of liver cells in vivo and in vitro. Furthermore, oroxyloside protected the liver cells from necroptosis by affecting JNK pathway.

CONCLUSION

Oroxyloside acted as a protective agent against APAP-induced liver injury through inhibiting JNK-related apoptosis and necroptosis.