Research - Traditional Chinese Medicine
The Antitumor Potential of Extract of the Oak Bracket Medicinal Mushroom Inonotus baumii in SMMC-7721 Tumor Cells
Yue Yang, Pingya He, and Ning Li
Abstract
Inonotus baumii, a traditional medicinal mushroom, has been historically used in China and other countries of East Asia for the treatment of various diseases. The aim of this study is to investigate the antitumor activity of the extract of I. baumii (EIB) against hepatocellular carcinoma and the possible mechanism involved. The MTT assay was used to evaluate the proliferative activity of SMMC-7721 cells treated with EIB. Hoechst 33258 and JC-1 staining were used to determine nuclear morphological changes and mitochondrial membrane potential, respectively. Flow cytometry analysis indicated that EIB blocked the cell cycle at the S phase and induced significant apoptosis. EIB increased the protein expression of Bax, cytochrome c, cleaved caspase-3, and decreased Bcl-2 in SMMC-7721. Moreover, EIB induced autophagy, indicated by the increase of autophagy-related protein expression of LC3-II and decrease of p62, and the AMPK/mTOR/ULK1 pathway was involved in the autophagic cell death. In vivo, EIB was found to strongly inhibit the growth of tumors in BALB/c nude mice. Our results indicated that I. baumii might be a potential natural therapeutic agent for liver cancer, as it could induce apoptosis and autophagy in HCC cells.
Source : Journal Evidence Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
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Apoptotic effect of Gyejibokryunghwan on uterine sarcoma cells (SK-UT-1B)
Nam Chun Park a1 Se Jik Hanb g1 Jin-Woo Lee c Hyuck Jai Choi d Eun-Jin Kim d Min-Hyung Jung e Jun-Bock Jang af Deok-Sa
Abstract
Background
Diagnosis of uterine sarcomais is a challenging task for clinicians because its position is not easily accessible by current conventional techniques. In addition, standardized treatment for uterine sarcoma has not yet been established due to its rarity and heterogeneity.
Hypothesis/Purpose
We investigated the apoptotic cell death of uterine sarcoma cells (SK-UT-1B) induced by Gyejibokryunghwan (GBH). GBH, an herbal medicine, has been widely used for gynecological diseases in Koean medicine.
Methods
SK-UT-1B cells were treated with GBH of varying concentrations from 0 to 500 µg/ml. The mechanism of cell death was investigated through multiple analysis methods, including flow cytometry, cell cycle, and western blotting.
Results
Flow cytometric analysis revealed that the number of apoptotic cells increased in a GBH dose-dependent manner. The cell populations of sub-G1 and G0/G1 phases were increased by GBH treatment, indicating apoptosisand cell arrest, while the population of S and G2/M phases decreased. With GBH, the expression levels of cleaved caspase-3, -6, and -9 were upregulated, while the expression levels of pro-caspase-3, -6, and -9 were down-regulated in SK-UT-1B cells.
Conclusion
These results are the first observation of uterine sarcoma cell death induced by GBH and confirmation of the mechanism of cell death, which occurred through the intrinsic apoptotic pathway. Clinically, uterine sarcoma has a poor prognosis with no appropriate treatment. GBH may become a new treatment modality for uterine sarcoma.
Source : Journal Phytomedicine
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A network pharmacology-based study on the anti-hepatoma effect of Radix Salviae Miltiorrhizae
Yi Luo, Yu Feng, Lei Song, Gan-Qing He, Sha Li, Sha-Sha Bai, Yu-Jie Huang, Si-Ying Li, Mohammed M. Almutairi, Hong-Lian Shi, Qi Wang & Ming Hong
Abstract
Background
Radix Salviae Miltiorrhizae (RSM), a well-known traditional Chinese medicine, has been shown to inhibit tumorigenesis in various human cancers. However, the anticancer effects of RSM on human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and the underlying mechanisms of action remain to be fully elucidated.
Methods
In this study, we aimed to elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms of RSM in the treatment of HCC using a network pharmacology approach. In vivo and in vitro experiments were also performed to validate the therapeutic effects of RSM on HCC.
Results
In total, 62 active compounds from RSM and 72 HCC-related targets were identified through network pharmacological analysis. RSM was found to play a critical role in HCC via multiple targets and pathways, especially the EGFR and PI3K/AKT signaling pathways. In addition, RSM was found to suppress HCC cell proliferation, and impair cancer cell migration and invasion in vitro. Flow cytometry analysis revealed that RSM induced cell cycle G2/M arrest and apoptosis, and western blot analysis showed that RSM up-regulated the expression of BAX and down-regulated the expression of Bcl-2 in MHCC97-H and HepG2 cells. Furthermore, RSM administration down-regulated the expression of EGFR, PI3K, and p-AKT proteins, whereas the total AKT level was not altered. Finally, the results of our in vivo experiments confirmed the therapeutic effects of RSM on HCC in nude mice.
Conclusions
We provide an integrative network pharmacology approach, in combination with in vitro and in vivo experiments, to illustrate the underlying therapeutic mechanisms of RSM action on HCC.
Source : Journal Chinese Medicine
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Therapeutic Duration and Extent Affect the Effect of Moxibustion on Depression-Like Behaviour in Rats via Regulating the Brain Tryptophan Transport and Metabolism
Hao Li,1 Lan Sang,2 Xing Xia,1 Ruirui Zhao,1 Mingyue Wang,1 Xiaofei Hou,1Jiawei Xiong,1 Tiemin Cao,1 Xiaoquan Liu,2 and Jian
bin Zhang1
Abstract
Moxibustion has been widely accepted as an alternative therapy for major depressive disease (MDD). However, the efficacy of moxibustion treatment on MDD is highly variable because of its irregular operation. This study was designed to investigate how therapeutic duration and extent influence the anti-depression effect of moxibustion and the underlying mechanism involved. Rats with lipopolysaccharide-induced depression-like behavior were treated by moxibustion treatment. The anti-depression effect was determined by forced swimming test and open field test. Tryptophan (Trp) transport and its metabolism to serotonin (5-HT) and kynurenine (Kyn) were evaluated to explore the anti-depression mechanism. The results showed that moxibustion treatment could alleviate the depression-like behavior in rats. Trp transport and 5-HT generation were significantly increased, and the Trp-Kyn pathway was moderately inhibited by moxibustion. Prolonged therapy could be beneficial to the anti-depression effect by promoting the brain uptake of Trp and shifting the Trp metabolism to 5-HT. An enhanced therapeutic extent could increase 5-HT generation. In conclusion, this study determined that the anti-depression effect of moxibustion involves improved Trp transport and metabolism. The therapeutic duration benefits antidepressant effects, but the complex influence of the therapeutic extent on moxibustion efficacy requires further studies.
Source : Journal Evidence Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
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Systematic exploration of Astragalus membranaceus and Panax ginseng as immune regulators: Insights from the comparative biological and computational analysis
Junqiu Liu , Shivraj Hariram Nile , Guoliang Xu , Yuesheng Wang , Guoyin Kai
Abstract
Background
Immune system plays a decisive role for defending various pathogenic microorganisms. Astragalus membranaceus (AM) and Panax ginseng (PG) are two tonic herbs used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) as immune booster and help to control diseases with their healthy synergistic effect on immune system.
Purpose
This study was aimed to investigate the promote effect and molecular mechanisms of AM and PG on immune system as booster and to control the target diseases using animal and computational systematic study.
Methods
Computational models including absorption, distribution, metabolism, and elimination (ADME) with weighted ensemble similarity (WES) algorithm-based models and ClueGo network analysis were used to find the potential bioactive compounds targets and pathways, which were responsible for immune regulation. Viscera index analysis, proliferation activity of splenic lymphocytes and cytotoxic activity of NK cells assays were performed to validate the effect of AM and PG on immune system of long-term administrated mice. Metabonomic study of mice plasma was conducted to investigate effect of AM and PG on the endogenous metabolic perturbations, together with correlation analysis.
Results
AM and PG simultaneously showed the ability to strengthen the immune system function including enhancement of spleen and thymus index, proliferation of splenic lymphocytes and cytotoxic activity of NK cells. Besides, the different molecular mechanisms of AM and PG on immune regulation were also investigated by analyzing the potential bioactive compounds, enzymes actions and pathways. Quercetin, formononetin and kaempferol were the main immune-related compounds in AM, while ginsenoside Ra1, ginsenoside Rh1 and kaempferol in PG. About 10 target proteins were found close to immune regulation, including acetylcholinesterase (ACHE, common target in AM and PG), sphingosine kinase 1(SPHK1), cytidine deaminase (CDA), and Choline O-acetyltransferase (CHAT). Glycerophospholipid metabolism was regulated in both AM and PG groups. Pyrimidine metabolism and sphingolipid metabolism were considered as the special pathway in AM groups. Energy metabolism and glycerolipid metabolism were the special pathways in PG groups.
Conclusion
A novel comprehensive molecular mechanism analysis method was established and applied to clarify the scientific connotation of AM and PG as immune regulation, with similar herbal tonic effect provided in clinical practice of TCM, which can provide a new line of research for drug development (immune booster) using AM and PG.
Source : Journal Phytomedicine
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Moxibustion Exerts a Neuroprotective Effect through Antiferroptosis in Parkinson’s Disease
Juan Lu,1 Xuelei Liu,1 Ye Tian,1 Hang Li,1 Zhenxing Ren,1 Shuang Liang,1 GuiyuZhang,1 Caiping Zhao,1 Xinrong Li,1 Tingting Wang,2 Dongfeng Chen,3Weihong Kuang,4 and Meiling Zhu
Abstract
The objective of this study was to explore the neuroprotective effect of moxibustion on rats with Parkinson’s disease (PD) and its mechanism. A Parkinson’s disease model was established in rats using a two-point stereotactic 6-hydroxydopamine injection in the right substantia nigra (SN) and ventral tegmental area. The rats received moxibustion at the Baihui (GV20) and Sishencong (EX-HN1) acupoints for 20 minutes, six times a week, for 6 weeks. The right SN tissue was histologically and immunohistochemically examined. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified through RNA sequencing. In addition, the levels of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4), and ferritin heavy chain 1 (FTH1) in SN were measured. In comparison to the model group, the moxibustion group showed a significantly greater TH immunoreactivity and a higher behavioural score. In particular, moxibustion led to an increase in the number and morphological stability of SN neural cells. The functional pathway analysis showed that DEGs are closely related to the ferroptosis pathway. GPX4 and FTH1 in the SN were significantly overexpressed in the moxibustion-treated rats with PD. Moxibustion can effectively reduce the death of SN neurons, decrease the occurrence of ferroptosis, and increase the TH activity to protect the neurons in rats with PD. The protective mechanism may be associated with suppression of the ferroptosis.
Source : Journal Evidence Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
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Bioactivities of serotonin transporter mediate antidepressant effects of Acorus tatarinowii Schott
Feng-Hong Zhang1 Zhi-Mei Wang1, Yan-Ting Liu Ji-Sheng Huang Shuang Liang Hong-Hua Wu Yan-Tong
Abstract
Ethnopharmacological relevance
Acrorus tatarinowii Schott has been widely used in the treatments of neuropsychiatric and digestive disorders in clinical practices of traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years. Both clinical and preclinical studies demonstrated antidepressant effects of A. tatarinowii. However, the possible action mechanisms of antidepressant effects of A. tatarinowii remain unraveled.
Aim of the study:
The present study aimed to investigate the roles of serotonin transporter (SERT) in antidepressant effects of A. tatarinowii.
Materials and methods
Antidepressant effects of water extract of A. tatarinowii were evaluated by forced swimming test (FST), tail suspension test (TST) and locomotor activity test. The water extract was analyzed by ultra high performance liquid chromatography (UPLC) method. Two major fractions of A. tatarinowii, petroleum ether extract and water extract after petroleum ether processed, were prepared and analyzed by UPLC method. Further, volatile oil extracted by ether extraction, solid phase micro-extraction (SPME) and hydro-distillation were compared and analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometer (GC-MS) method. Finally, major constituents of water extract of A. tatarinowii were isolated by preparative high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and identified by extensive spectroscopic analyses. Effects of all of the above mentioned samples on SERT activity were tested by a high content assay (HCA).
Results
Results of FST, TST and locomotor activity confirmed that water extract of A. tatarinowii significantly decreased mice immobility time but did not change mice locomotor activity. UPLC analysis results revealed that the water extract contained trace amount of β-asarone (0.0004206%) and α-asarone (0.0001918%). HCA results demonstrated that the water extract significantly enhanced SERT activity at 100 μg/mL. Further, GC-MS and UPLC analyses revealed that petroleum ether extract contained high content of β-asarone (45.63%) and α-asarone (12.50%). GC-MS analysis results demonstrated that the volatile oil extracted by ether extraction, SPME and hydro-distillation contained similar major components. HCA results verified that the petroleum ether extract significantly enhanced SERT activity at 1.56 μg/mL. Moreover, UPLC analysis of water extract after petroleum ether processed did not show any characteristic peaks. HCA results demonstrated that this extract significantly inhibited SERT activity at 50–100 μg/mL. Finally, phytochemistry investigation on the water extract of A. tatarinowii afforded seven constituents including veratric acid (9), anisic acid (7), 3,4,5-trimethoxybenzoic acid (3), trans-isoferulic acid (2), 2,4,5-trimethoxybenzoic acid (11), 4-hydroxybenzoic acid (6) and syringic acid (13). Their structures were established on the basis of nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and mass spectrometer (MS) data and comparative UPLC analyses. HCA results demonstrated the major components of the water extract of A. tatarinowii demonstrated SERT enhancement/inhibition activities.
Conclusions
This study first systematically demonstrated the roles of SERT activity in antidepressant effects of A. tatarinowii, including water extract, major fractions and main constituents. These results revealed that A. tatarinowii could regulate SERT activities in bidirectional ways.
Source : Journal of Ethnopharmacology
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Evaluation of anti-proliferative activity of medicinal plants used in Asian Traditional Medicine to treat cancer
Yin-Yin Siew, Hui-Chuing Yew, Soek-Ying Neo, Si-Min Lew, Shun-Wei Lim, Claire Sophie EnShen Lim, Yi-Cheng Ng, Wei-Guang Seetoh, Azhar Ali, Chay-Hoon Tan, Hwee-Ling Koh
Abstract
Ethnopharmacological relevance The extensive biodiversity of plants in Southeast Asia and inadequate research hitherto warrant a continued investigation into medicinal plants. On the basis of a careful review of fresh medicinal plant usage to treat cancer from previous ethnobotanical interviews in Singapore and from the traditional uses of the indigenous plants, fresh leaves of seven locally grown medicinal plant species were evaluated for anti-proliferative activity. Aim of the study To evaluate the anti-proliferative activity of local medicinal plant species Clausena lansium Skeels, Clinacanthus nuttans (Burm. f.) Lindau, Leea indica (Burm. f.) Merr., Pereskia bleo (Kunth) DC., Strobilanthes crispus (L.) Blume, Vernonia amygdalina Delile and Vitex trifolia L. Materials and method Fresh, healthy and mature leaves of the seven medicinal plants were harvested from various locations in Singapore and Malaysia for Soxhlet, ultrasonication and maceration extractions in three different solvents (water, ethanol and methanol). Cell proliferation assay using water soluble tetrazolium salt (WST-1) assay was performed on twelve human cancer cell lines derived from breast (MDA-MB-231, T-47D), cervix (C-33A), colon (HCT 116), leukemia (U937), liver (HepG2, SNU-182, SNU-449), ovarian (OVCAR-5, PA-1, SK-OV-3) and uterus (MES-SA/DX5).
Results A total of 37 fresh leaf extracts from seven medicinal plants were evaluated for their antitumor activities in twelve human cancer cell lines. Of these, the extracts of C. lansium, L. indica, P. bleo, S. crispus, V. amygdalina and V. trifolia exhibited promising antiproliferative activity against multiple cancer cell lines. Further investigation of selected promising leaf extracts indicated that maceration methanolic extract of L. indica was most effective overall against majority of the cancer cell lines, with best IC50 values of 31.5 ± 11.4 µg/mL, 37.5 ± 0.7 µg/mL and 43.0 ± 6.2 µg/mL in cervical C33A, liver SNU-449, and ovarian PA-1 cancer cell lines, respectively
Conclusion The results of this study provide new scientific evidence for the traditional use of local medicinal plant species C. lansium, L. indica, P. bleo, S. crispus, V. amygdalina and V. trifolia in cancer treatment. These results highlight the importance of the upkeep of these indigenous plants in modern society and their relevance as resources for drug discovery.
Source ; Journal of Ethnopharmacology
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Jie Du Tong Ye San Prevents N-Nitrosomethylbenzylamine-Induced Esophageal Carcinogenesis via Inhibition of Inflammation and Proliferation
Simin Zhao,1,2 Yanan Jiang,1,2 Tongde Tian,3 Jimin Zhao,1,2 Yifei Xie,1,2Xinhuan Chen,1,2 Jing Lu,1,2 Feng Yang,3 Honglin Li,2,4 Kangdong Liu,1,2and Ziming Dong1,2
Abstract
Jie du tong ye san (JDTYS), a traditional Chinese herbal formula, has been used for cancer adjuvant therapy in clinical use and has been shown to be effective in cancer patients. However, the mechanism of JDTYS is still unclear. Therefore, the aim of the present study is to investigate the chemopreventive effects of JDTYS for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) and to clarify the potential mechanism. N-nitrosomethylbenzylamine (NMBA)-induced rat esophageal carcinogenesis was used to evaluate the effect of JDTYS in vivo. Rats were treated with NMBA 3 times per week, for a total of 5 weeks. Rats in the treated groups were given JDTYS for 35 weeks. When rats were euthanized, esophageal tissue and blood were collected to evaluate the effects of JDTYS. The pathological grading of the rat esophageal preneoplastic lesions was classified and statistically analyzed. The protein levels of c-Jun and Ki67 were determined by immunohistochemistry. In addition, inflammation markers nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), and the cluster of differentiation molecule 11B (CD11B) were also determined by immunohistochemistry. Moreover, the expression of COX-2 and Pentraxin 3 (PTX3) in rat serum was determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). JDTYS could inhibit the formation of NMBA-induced esophageal preneoplastic lesions. JDTYS could downregulate the expression of proliferation related proteins Ki67 and c-Jun. Moreover, inflammation related proteins NF-κB, COX-2, and CD11B were inhibited and PTX3 was increased by JDTYS. In all, JDTYS is a promising chemopreventive formula against esophageal carcinogenesis by regulating inflammation and inhibiting cell proliferation.
Source : Journal Evidence Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
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The Wound Healing Effect of Callicarpa nudiflora in Scalded Rats
Xu-guang Zhang,1,2 Xiu-min Li,1,2 Xin-xin Zhou,3 Yong Wang,1,2 Wei-yongLai,1,2 Ying Liu,1 Yu-chao Luo,1 and Jun-qing Zhang
Abstract
Callicarpa nudiflora has been widely used in Li nationality medicine and treated burns and scalds in China. Our objective was to preliminarily elucidate healing effect and action mechanism of Callicarpa nudiflora water extract (CNE) on the scald wounds using an experimental rat mode. The second-degree scald wounds were induced by hot water on dorsal surface of Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats, and then they were randomly divided into 5 groups as follows: control (CON), Vaseline, Silver sulfadiazine (SSD), and Vaseline supplemented with 10% and 20% CNE groups. These ointments were employed locally once daily for 21 days. The macroscopic analysis showed CNE significantly accelerated the wound healing process and lowered the wound areas on days 15, 18, and 21 especially in 20% CNE group compared to CON group. Histopathological evaluation showed the mildly hypertrophic epidermis and the intact dermis in the 20% CNE-treated group were obviously distinguished from CON group on day 21. The CNE-treated groups had no obvious effect for TNF-α and IL-10 expressions on the second day and 14th day, while TGF-β1 expression level was decreased on the 21th day and VEGF level was increased on the 7th day in the 20% CNE group. Furthermore, the expression level of Samd3 was strongly inhibited in 20% CNE group. These findings suggested that the CNE can enhance the wound healing and skin repair in deep second-degree scald rats and thus support its traditional use.
Source : Journal Evidence Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
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A Compound of Chinese Herbs Protects against Alcoholic Liver Fibrosis in Rats via the TGF-β1/Smad Signaling Pathway
Xiaomeng Li,1,2 Yunjie Liu,1,2 Wuyang Yue,1,2 Yuefeng Tan,1,2 He Wang,1,2Lishi Zhang,1,2 and Jinyao Chen
Abstract
Alcoholic liver fibrosis (ALF) has become a major public health concern owing to its health impacts and the lack of effective treatment strategies for the disease. In this study, we investigated the effect of a compound composed of Chinese herbs Pueraria lobata (Willd.), Salvia miltiorrhiza, Schisandra chinensis, and Silybum marianum on ALF. An ALF model was established. Rats were fed with modified Lieber–Decarli alcohol liquid diet and injected with trace CCl4 at late stage. The rats were then treated with several doses of the compound. Biochemical and fibrosis-relevant parameters were measured from the sera obtained from the rats. Liver tissues were obtained for hematoxylin and eosin and Masson’s trichrome staining. Matrix metalloproteinase-13 and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1 were determined by immunohistochemistry assays. The mRNA and protein expression levels of transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), Smad2, Smad3, and Smad7 on the livers were also measured by quantitative polymerase chain reaction and Western blot. Results showed that the compound treatment alleviated pathological lesions in the liver, decreased the serum levels of hyaluronan, laminin, and hydroxyproline, and diminished the expression of hepatic tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1. Compound treatment also increased hepatic matrix metalloproteinase-13 expression and inhibited the TGF-β1/Smad signaling pathway. In conclusion, the compound has a protective effect against ALF in rats, and an underlying mechanism is involved in the TGF-β1/Smad signaling pathway.
Source Journal Evidence Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
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Effectiveness and Safety of Oral Cordyceps sinensis on Stable COPD of GOLD Stages 2–3: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Xuhua Yu,1 Yuquan Mao,1 Johannah Linda Shergis,2 Meaghan E. Coyle,2Lei Wu,1 Yuanbin Chen,1 Anthony Lin Zhang,2 Lin Lin,1 Charlie Changli Xue,1,2 and Yinji Xu
Abstract
Cordyceps sinensis (CS) is a complementary medicine used for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) of Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) stages 2-3. Many randomized controlled trials have been conducted to evaluate the effect of CS alone or in combination with other herbs on stable COPD. To provide a synthesis of the evidence, we searched nine major electronic databases for randomized controlled trials on CS published before 21st December 2016. Fifteen interventional studies, including 1,238 participants, met the inclusion criteria. Meta-analysis showed that both CS preparations and CS formulae showed the potential benefits in lung function, exercise endurance, life quality, and improvement of symptoms. No serious adverse events were reported. So CS may be a promising treatment for patients with stable COPD of GOLD stages 2-3. No studies were placebo-controlled or of high methodological quality, which limits the conclusions
Source : Journal Complementary and Alternative Medicine
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Effect of Traditional East Asian Medicinal herbal tea (HT002) on insomnia: a randomized controlled pilot study
Sujeong Muna, Siwoo Leea Kihyun Parka Sang-Jae Leeb Byung-Hee KohcYounghwa Baeka
Abstract
Background
Complementary and alternative medicine treatment for insomnia has been sought due to the possible adverse effects of conventional pharmacotherapies. We performed a preliminary evaluation of the feasibility of using, and of the effect of a herbal tea (HT002), based on Traditional East Asian Medicine, in mild-to-moderate insomnia.
Methods
Patients (n = 40) with mild-to-moderate insomnia were randomized to the HT002 (n = 20) or waitlist (n = 20) groups. The HT002 group consumed HT002 twice daily for 4 weeks. Outcomes were assessed using the Insomnia Severity Scale (ISI), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index(PSQI), and 12-item Short Form Health Survey (SF-12) at baseline and after 4 and 8 weeks.
Results
The ISI score differences from baseline at weeks 4 and 8 were significantly greater in the HT002 than that in the waitlist group (week 4: −4.0 ± 0.8 vs. −0.4 ± 0.8, p < 0.05; week 8: −4.8 ± 0.7 vs. −0.9 ± 0.7, p < 0.05). Changes in PSQI and SF-12 physical component scores in the HT002 group were significantly greater at weeks 4 and 8 (p < 0.05), while SF-12 mental component scores were only significantly larger at 4 weeks (p < 0.05). HT002 was well-tolerated, with only one (5.0%) dropout, and no significant mean liver and renal function test changes post-treatment.
Conclusion
Our preliminary results suggest that a 4-week treatment with HT002 may reduce the severity of insomnia symptoms and improve the quality of life. Further studies devoid of the limitations of our protocol may provide stronger conclusions.
Source : Integrative Medicine Research
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Curcumin and Curcumol Inhibit NF-κB and TGF-β1/Smads Signaling Pathways in CSE-Treated RAW246.7 Cells
Ning Li,1 Tian-Hao Liu,1,2 Jing-Ze Yu,1 Chen-Xi Li,1 Yang Liu,1 Yue-YingWu,1 Zhong-Shan Yang,1 and Jia-Li Yuan1
Abstract
E-Zhu (Curcuma zedoaria) is known as a classical traditional Chinese medicine and widely used in the treatment of cancers, cardiovascular disease, inflammation, and other diseases. Its main components include curcumol and curcumin, which have anti-inflammatory and antifibrosis effects. Here we established an in vitroinflammatory injury model by stimulating RAW246.7 cells with cigarette smoke extract (CSE) and detected the intervention effects of curcumin and curcumol on CSE-treated Raw246.7 macrophage cells to explore whether the two compounds inhibited the expression of inflammatory cytokines by inhibiting the NF-κB signaling pathway. We detected the antifibrosis effects of curcumin and curcumol via TGF-β1/Smads signaling pathways. The model of macrophage damage group was established by CSE stimulation. Curcumol and curcumin were administered to Raw246.7 macrophage cells. The efficacy of curcumol and curcumin was evaluated by comparing the activation of proinflammatory factors, profibrotic factors, and NF-κB and TGF-β1/Smads signaling pathway. In addition, CSE-treated group was employed to detect whether the efficacy of curcumol and curcumin was dependent on the NF-κB signaling via the pretreatment with the inhibitor of NF-κB. Our findings demonstrated that curcumol and curcumin could reduce the release of intracellular ROS from macrophages, inhibit the NF-κB signaling pathway, and downregulate the release of proinflammatory factor. Curcumol and curcumin inhibited the TGF-β1/Smads signaling pathway and downregulated the release of fibrotic factors. Curcumin showed no anti-inflammatory effect in CSE-treated cells after the inhibition of NF-κB. Curcumol and curcumin showed an anti-inflammatory effect by inhibiting the NF-κB signaling pathway.
Source : Evidence Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
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An innovative anti-cancer Chinese herbal formula exhibited multi-targeted efficacies in metastatic breast cancer mouse model
Grace Gar-Lee Yue, Julia Kin-Ming Lee, Ben Chung-Lap Chan, Hin-Fai Kwok, Sandy Wan-Heng Hoi, Daniel Man-Yuen Sze, Kwok-Pui Fung, Ping-Chung Leung and Clara Bik-San Lau
Abstract
Background
The incidence and mortality of cancer metastasis is high worldwide. Despite of the chemotherapeutic agents, many cancer patients still take traditional Chinese herbal prescriptions as adjuvant treatments. However, most of these herbal formulae/products lack of evidence-based efficacy. Based on our previous investigations on anti-tumor, anti-angiogenic, anti-metastatic, bone protective and immunomodulating activities of various Chinese herbal medicines, four constituent herbs, namely Andrographis paniculata, Acanthopanax senticosus, Camellia sinensis, and Hedyotis diffusa were eventually selected to form an innovative herbal formula.
Methods
The anti-tumor efficacies of the formula were evaluated in metastatic breast cancer mice model. The bone protective and immunomodulatory effects were also assessed after formula treatment.
Results
Our results showed that the breast tumor weight as well as lung and liver metastasis in mice could be reduced after herbal formula treatment for 4 weeks. The breast tumor-induced osteolysis in mice was restored by herbal formula treatment, in which the bone volume in treated mice tibia was comparable to that in the non-tumor bearing normal mice. The IL-12 level was augmented and the survival of mice with metastatic breast tumors was prolonged after treatment. Furthermore, combination of herbal formula with chemotherapeutic agent doxorubicin resulted in better anti-tumor efficacy and increased life span in tumor-bearing mice, when compared with doxorubicin alone treatment.
Conclusions
In summary, our innovative Chinese herbal formula was demonstrated to possess anti-tumor, anti-metastatic and bone-protective activities in metastatic breast tumor-bearing mice. The preclinical data generated in this study would lead to the development of evidence-based supplement as adjuvant therapy for metastatic breast cancer.
Source : Journal Chinese Medicine
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Chinese Herbal Formula Feilin Vaginal Gel Prevents the Cervicitis in Mouse Model
Xin Mao,1 Ronghua Zhao,1 Rongmei Yao,1,2 Shanshan Guo,1 Lei Bao,1Yingjie Gao,1 Jing Sun,1 Yanyan Bao,1 Yujing Shi,1 and Xiaolan Cui
Abstract
Cervicitis is a common sexually transmitted disease. In recent years, the abuse of antibiotic in the treatment of cervicitis results in the emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria; alternative strategies are needed to be developed. In this research, we investigated the effects of Feilin Vaginal Gel (FVG), a Chinese herbal formula, on the treatment of cervicitis. Two cervicitis models were optimized using BALB/c mouse; one in vitro model was established in HeLa cells. In Chlamydia trachomatis-induced cervicitis model, the high level of bacterial loads, the inflammation in tissue, and the cytokines in serum could be observed. With the administration of FVG, the bacterial loads in cervical mucus and cervix tissue could be significantly inhibited in dose-dependent manners. The pathological injury of cervix and vagina, as well as the levels of IL-2, IL-17, and MCP-1 in serum, could be mitigated by FVG. FVG reduced the number of inclusion induced by C. trachomatis in HeLa cells. In addition, the histological damage in Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus-induced cervicitis model could be reduced by FVG. These results suggest that FVG is capable of treating cervicitis through the inhibition of pathogens and the regulation of host immune responses. FVG may contribute as an alternative agent for the treatment of cervicitis.
Source : Journal Evidence Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
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A Systematic Review of the Anticancer Properties of Compounds Isolated from Licorice (Gancao)
Zheng-Hai Tang/, Ting Li, Yun-Guang Tong, Xiao-Jia Chen, Xiu-Ping Chen, Yi-Tao Wang, Jin-Jian Lu
Abstract
Licorice (Gancao in Chinese) has been used worldwide as a botanical source in medicine and as a sweetening agent in food products for thousands of years. Triterpene saponins and flavonoids are its main ingredients that exhibit a variety of biological activities, including hepatoprotective, antiulcer, anti-inflammatory, antiviral and anticancer effects among others. This review attempts to summarize the current knowledge on the anticancer properties and mechanisms of the compounds isolated from licorice and obtain new insights for further research and development of licorice. A broad spectrum of in vitro and in vivo studies have recently demonstrated that the mixed extracts and purified compounds from licorice exhibit evident anticancer properties by inhibition of proliferation, induction of cell cycle arrest, apoptosis, autophagy, differentiation, suppression of metastasis, angiogenesis, and sensitization of chemotherapy or radiotherapy. A combined treatment of licorice compounds and clinical chemotherapy drugs remarkably enhances anticancer effects and reduces the side effects of chemotherapeutics. Furthermore, glycyrrhizic acid and glycyrrhetinic acid in licorice have been indicated to present obvious liver-targeting effects in targeted drug delivery systems for hepatocellular carcinoma treatment.
Source : Journal Planta Medica
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Louqin Zhisou Decoction Inhibits Mucus Hypersecretion for Acute Exacerbation of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Rats by Suppressing EGFR-PI3K-AKT Signaling Pathway and Restoring Th17/Treg Balance
Feng Feng,1,2,3 Jianchao Du,4 Yufeng Meng,3 Fang Guo,3 and CuilingFeng3
Abstract
Airway mucus hypersecretion is the main pathogenic factor in acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD) and the control of mucus secretion is closely associated with survival. Louqin Zhisou decoction (LQZS) has been found to improve lung function and reduce sputum in AECOPD patients, but the mechanism remains unclear. This study aimed to explore the mechanism of LQZS against mucus hypersecretion in lung tissues of rat AECOPD model. Wistar rats were used to establish AECOPD model by intratracheal instillation of LPS in combination with the continuous cigarette smoking. Rats were administrated LQZS/clarithromycin (CAM)/distilled water via gavage every day and all rats were sacrificed after 30 days. BALF and lung tissues were obtained. Lung morphology, cytokines levels, MUC5AC mRNA transcription and protein expression, phosphorylation of the EGFR-PI3K-AKT signaling pathway, and molecules involved in Th17/Treg balance were evaluated. The results demonstrated that LQZS protected rats from decline in pulmonary function and ameliorated lung injury. LQZS treatment decreased the number of goblet cells in airway and suppressed MUC5AC mRNA and protein expression of lung tissues. Furthermore, LQZS attenuated the level of phospho-EGFR, phospho-PI3K and phospho-AKT in AECOPD rats. In addition, LQZS could inhibit the production of proinflammatory cytokines in BALF, including IL-6 and IL-17A and downregulate the secretion of NE and MCP-1, indicating that LQZS could limit inflammatory responses in AECOPD. Moreover, LQZS reversed RORγt and Foxp3 expression, the key transcription factors of Th17 and Treg, respectively. In conclusion, this research demonstrated the inhibitory effects of LQZS against mucus hypersecretion in AECOPD via suppressing EGFR-PI3K-AKT signaling pathway and restoring Th17/Treg balance.
Source : Journal Evidence Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
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Gut microbiota was modulated by moxibustion stimulation in rats with irritable bowel syndrome
Xiaomei Wang† Qin Qi†, Yuanyuan Wang†, Huangan Wu, Xiaoming Jin, Huan Yao, Duiyin Jin, Yanan Liu and Cun Wang
Abstract
Background
The pathogenesis of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is closely related to intestinal dysbacteriosis and can be controlled by moxibustion treatment. However, the mechanism underlying the therapeutic value of moxibustion in IBS treatment remains unknown.
Methods
An IBS rat model was established by colorectal distention (CRD) stimulus and mustard oil clyster. Sixty-five male rats were randomly divided into six groups: normal, IBS model, moxibustion, electroacupuncture (EA), Bifid-triple Viable Capsule (BTVC) and Pinaverium Bromide (PB) groups. The moxibustion group was treated with mild moxibustion at the bilateral Tianshu (ST25) and Shangjuxu (ST37) for 10 min/day for 7 days, the EA group was given EA at ST25 and ST37 once daily for 7 days, while the BTVC group and PB groups received Bifid-triple Viable Capsule and Pinaverium Bromide solution (at the proportion of 1:0.018) respectively by gavage once daily for 7 days. After the treatment, abdominal withdrawal reflex (AWR) scores were determined based on CRD stimulus, gut microbiota profiling was conducted by 16S rRNA high-throughput sequencing.
Results
Irritable bowel syndrome model rats had significantly increased AWR scores at all intensities (20, 40, 60 and 80 mmHg) compared with the normal group. Moxibustion treatment significantly reduced AWR scores compared with the IBS model group at all intensities. Across all groups the most abundant phyla were Bacteroidetes and Firmicutes followed by Proteobacteria and Candidatus Saccharibacteria. At genus level IBS model rats had a higher abundance of Prevotella, Bacteroides and Clostridium XI and a lower abundance of Lactobacillusand Clostridium XIVa compared with normal rats. These changes in microbiota profiles could however be reversed by moxibustion treatment. Alpha diversity was decreased in IBS model rats compared with normal rats, yet significantly increased in moxibustion- and PB-treated rats compared with IBS rats.
Conclusion
Our findings suggest that moxibustion treats IBS by modulating the gut microbiota.
Source : Journal Chinese Medicine
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Moxa smoke: Is it a beneficial or hazardous factor for infertility? A preclinical study on sperm parameters and sex hormones in male rats
Lei Wanga Li Hanb Ping Liuc Jia Yanga Yingxue Cuia Hua Baid Juntian Liua Yuhai Huanga Jian Huanga Chang Huanga Baixiao
Zhaoa
Abstract
Introduction
Moxibustion is commonly used as a traditional Chinese medicine treatment. The aim was to investigate how the exposure of moxa smoke influences sperm parameters, testis index and serum sex hormones in Wistar male rats.
Methods
48 Wistar rats were randomly assigned, n = 12/group, to a control group or one of three moxa-smoke groups: M1 (low concentration, 0.4% of optical density), M2 (middle concentration, 2%) and M3 (high concentration, 15%). Rats in moxa smoke groups were exposed at the respective concentrations of M1 (0.4% of optical density), M2 (2%) and M3 (15%) for 12 weeks, at 5 days per week and 200 min per day. Dynamic analyses of sperm fluid were used to determine sperm concentration, progressive motility, sperm motility, linearity (LIN), wobble (WOB), straightness (STR), velocity of curved line (VCL), velocity of straight line (VSL) and velocity of average path (VAP). The testis index (TI) was measured, and serum sex hormones were determined by using ELISA
.
Results
At the end of 12 weeks of treatment, when the control group was compared with the moxa-smoke groups, the moxa-smoke groups exhibited the following results: sperm concentrations were significantly higher in groups M1 and M3 (p = 0.013), progressive motility was significantly higher in M1 (p = 0.006), and sperm motility was significantly higher in groups M1, M2 and M3 (M1, p = 0.003; M2, p = 0.044; M3, p = 0.008). Compared to the control group, TI was also significantly higher in groups M1, M2 and M3 (M1, p = 0.004; M2, p = 0.003; M3, p = 0.002), as were serum total testosterone (TT), free testosterone (FT) and testosterone secreting index (TSI), respectively (TT, p = 0.000; FT, TSI, p = 0.001). Compared to M1, TT was significantly lower in groups M2 and M3 (M2, p = 0.021; M3, P = 0.001). The comparison of LIN, WOB, STR, VCL, VSL and VAP between groups showed no significant differences.
Conclusion
As compared to the non-moxa-smoke control group, low, middle and high concentrations of moxa smoke are effective to improve the male reproductive system in Wistar rats. More specifically, low moxa-smoke concentration seems slightly better than high concentrations for improving the sperm concentrations, progressive motility and sperm motility, TI, TT, FT, TSI of Wistar rats.
Source : European Journal of Integrative Medicine
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Clinical efficacy of the traditional Chinese herbal formula, (Tong Bian Decoction) on laxative dependence constipation in elderly persons: A randomized, multicenter, controlled trial
YinziY uea1 Xiaopeng Wangb1 HuijuYangc1Mingming Sunb Shujun Chend Haihua Qiane Tianshu Xuf Shuai Yan
Abstract
Introduction
Constipation is a common problem particularly for older people. This study was designed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of treating laxative dependence constipation patients with the Traditional Chinese Herbal Formula (Tong Bian Decoction).
Methods
Of 160 patients randomised to the trial, 80 cases in the control group were given an oral administration of mosapride, while the other 80 cases were allocated Tong Bian Decoction. Symptom scores of constipation, rectal pressure, and the assessment of patients with constipation on their quality of life and side-effects were evaluated.
Results
Of the 160 patients, 80 completed the trial. At follow-up, there were remarkable differences between the TBD treatment group and mosapride treatment group for the following parameters: difficult defecation, fecal character, defecation time, endless and dilatation feeling, frequency and abdominal distension scores (P < 0.05); anal rest pressure, maximum systolicpressure and rectal maximum threshold of the rectal pressure (P < 0.05); physical, worry and satisfaction domain of the PAC-QOL (P < 0.05).
Conclusion
Tong Bian Decoction appeared to be clinically effective on symptoms, the rectal pressure and the PAC-QOL of long-term laxative dependence constipation in elderly persons. There were also fewer side effects.
Source : European Journal of Inegrative Medicine
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Antidiabetic Activity of Picris japonica Thunb Aqueous Extract in Diabetic KK-Ay Mice
Yanmei Jia and Lirong Chen
Abstract
Objective. To evaluate the hypoglycemic effect of Picris japonica Thunb (Asteraceae) on KK-Ay mice. Methods. The hypoglycemic effect of Picris japonica aqueous extract (PJE) in a spontaneous type 2 diabetic model (KK-Ay mice) was studied in the present research. PJE was administrated at doses of 700 mg/kg and 350 mg/kg (calculated as crude herb) for 14 days and blood glucose, oral glucose tolerance test, plasma insulin level, and blood lipid were evaluated. Meanwhile, Rosiglitazone was used for the positive control. Results. It was found the PJE treatment significantly reduced blood glucose level and improved oral glucose tolerance ability (p < 0.01 orp < 0.05) in a dose-dependent manner compared to the control diabetic mice. The blood insulin levels were significantly reduced in PJE-treated mice (700 mg/kg) and Rosiglitazone compared with the diabetic control (p< 0.01). Compared with the control diabetic group, the serum total cholesterol, triglyceride, and low density lipoprotein cholesterol were reduced by PJE (700 mg/kg) and Rosiglitazone (p < 0.05), and the serum high density lipoprotein cholesterol was significantly increased only by Rosiglitazone (p < 0.01). Conclusions. The findings demonstrate that Picris japonica has remarkable antidiabetic effect in diabetic KK-Ay mice, which suggests that Picris japonica may be beneficial to the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Source : Journal Evidence Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
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Effects of different principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine treatment on TLR7/NF-κB signaling pathway in influenza virus infected mice
Ying-Jie Fu† Yu-Qi Yan†, Hong-Qiong Qin, Sha Wu, Shan-Shan Shi, Xiao Zheng, Peng-Cheng Wang, Xiao-Yin Chen Xiao-Long Tang and Zhen-You Jiang
Abstract
Background
Influenza virus is a single-stranded RNA virus that causes influenza in humans and animals. About 600 million people around the world suffer from influenza every year. Upon recognizing viral RNA molecules, TLR7 (Toll-like receptor) initiates corresponding immune responses. Traditional Chinese Medicines (TCMs), including Yinqiao powder, Xinjiaxiangruyin and Guizhi-and-Mahuang decoction, have been extensively applied in clinical treatment of influenza. Although the therapeutic efficacy of TCMs against influenza virus in vivo was reported previously, its underlying mechanisms are not clearly understood. This study aimed to investigate the immunological mechanisms in the treatment of influenza virus infected mice with three Chinese herbal compounds as well as the effect on TLR7/NF-κB signaling pathway during recovery.
Methods
Wild type and TLR7 KO C57BL/6 mice were infected with influenza virus FM1 and then treated with three TCMs. The physical parameters of mice (body weight and lung index) and the expression levels of components in TLR7/NF-κB signaling pathway were evaluated.
Results
After viral infection, Guizhi-and-Mahuang decoction and Yinqiao powder showed better anti-viral effect under normal condition. Compared to the viral control group, expression levels of TLR7, MyD88, IRAK4 and NF-κB were significantly reduced in all treatment groups. Furthermore, the three TCM treatment groups showed poor therapeutic efficacy and no difference in viral load compared to the viral control group in TLR7 KO mice.
Conclusion
Our study indicated that Guizhi-and-Mahuang decoction and Yinqiao powder might play a crucial role of anti-influenza virus by regulating TLR7/NF-κB signal pathway.
Source : Chinese Medicine Journal
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Xingnao Jieyu Decoction Ameliorates Poststroke Depression through the BDNF/ERK/CREB Pathway in Rats
Tao Li,1 Dou Wang,1 Bingbing Zhao,2 and Yongmei Yan
Abstract
Background. The neurotrophic pathway regulated by the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of poststroke depression (PSD). How the traditional Chinese medicine compound preparation Xingnao Jieyu (XNJY) decoction regulates the neurotrophic pathway to treat PSD is unclear. Objective. This study aimed to investigate the antidepressant effect of XNJY decoction on a rat model of PSD and the molecular mechanism intervening in the neurotrophic pathway. Methods. After a middle cerebral artery occlusion model was established, chronic unpredictable mild stress was applied for 21 days to prepare a PSD model. XNJY groups and a fluoxetine (Flu) group of rats were intragastrically administered with XNJY and Flu, respectively, for 21 consecutive days. Depressive-like behaviors, including sucrose preference, open field test, and forced swimming test, were assessed. The survival and apoptosis of cortical and hippocampal neurons were evaluated by immunofluorescence assay and TUNEL staining. The contents of serotonin (5-HT), norepinephrine (NE), and BDNF in the cortex and hippocampus were determined by ELISA. The protein levels of BDNF, p-ERK/ERK, and p-CREB/CREB in the cortical and hippocampal regions were tested by Western blot. Results. The depressive-like behaviors markedly improved after XNJY and Flu treatment. XNJY and Flu promoted neuronal survival and protected cortical and hippocampal neurons from apoptosis. XNJY also increased the contents of 5-HT, NE, and BDNF and recovered the protein levels of p-ERK/ERK, p-CREB/CREB, and BDNF in the cortical and hippocampal regions. Conclusion. These results indicated that the XNJY decoction exerts an obvious antidepressant effect, which may be due to the regulation of the BDNF/ERK/CREB signaling pathway.
Source : Evidence Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
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Characterization and anti-tumor activity of a polysaccharide isolated from Dendrobium officinale grown in the Huoshan County
- Yuan Wei
- Linwei Wang,
- Dujun Wang,
- Dan Wang,
- Chongwei Wen,
- Bangxin Han and
- Zhen Ouyang
Abstract
Background
Polysaccharides are carbohydrate chains composed of linked monosaccharide units. Accumulating studies report that polysaccharides isolated from Dendrobium officinale have a variety of functions. However, the composition and anti-tumor activity of D. officinale grown in the Huoshan area are largely unknown.
Methods
A polysaccharide (DOPA-1) was isolated from D. officinale by hot water extraction and ethanol precipitation, followed by purification via DEAE-cellulose and Sephadex G-100 chromatography. DOPA-1 was analyzed by infrared and nuclear magnetic resonance and then characterized by periodate oxidation and Smith degradation. The anti-tumor activity of DOPA-1 was then tested in HepG-2 cells.
Results
Our results show that DOPA-1 is mainly comprised of mannose, glucose, and galactose at a molar ratio of 1:0.42:0.27 and has an average molecular weight of 2.29 × 105 Da. Additionally, DOPA-1 inhibited HepG-2 cell growth in a dose-dependent manner. DOPA-1-treated HepG-2 cells also had increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels and decreased mitochondrial membrane potential. Furthermore, apoptosis was observed in DOPA-1-treated HepG-2 cells along with Bcl-2 downregulation and Bax upregulation at the protein level.
Conclusions
Our findings suggest that DOPA-1 induces apoptosis in tumor cells via altered mitochondrial function, ROS production, and altered apoptosis-related protein expression. This bioactive polysaccharide could, therefore, potentially be further developed as an anti-tumor adjuvant drug.
Source : Journal Chinese Medicine
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In Vitro and In Vivo Inhibitory Effect of Gujin Xiaoliu Tang in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Chao Hou,1 Dai-Han Zhou,2 Yong-Jian Wu,1 Xiao-Jun Dai,1 Qing-Ying Wang,1Yin-Qiu Wu,3 and En-Xin Zhang
Abstract
Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is a serious threat to people’s health. This study aims to determine the possible effect of Gujin Xiaoliu Tang (GJXLT) on NSCLC, which is an empirical formula from Professor Dai-Han Zhou. In this study, chromatographic fingerprinting of GJXLT and A549 cell model in vitro and in vivo was established. We cultured A549 cells in vitro and found that GJXLT inhibited A549 cell growth and induced apoptosis. Compared with the control group, the expression of p-STAT3 and VEGF proteins in the GJXLT groups was decreased. Similar findings were also observed in vivo. First, GJXLT inhibited the growth of transplanted tumor and did not reduce the weight of the tumor-bearing mice in comparison with that of the control group. Then, the Ki-67 expression of transplanted tumor in the GJXLT groups was decreased. In addition, the apoptosis rate of transplanted tumor in the GJXLT groups was increased. Overall, our data showed that GJXLT inhibited A549 cell proliferation and induced apoptosis in vivo and in vitro. Furthermore, GJXLT inhibited the growth of lung cancer xenograft in nude mice model with no obvious side effects. The anti-tumor effect of GJXLT might also be related to the inhibition of p-STATS and VEGF expression in the JAK2/STAT3 pathway. Our results demonstrated the potential of GJXLT as a novel treatment for NSCLC.
Source : Evidence Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
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Aqueous Extract of Semen Ziziphi Spinosae Exerts Anxiolytic Effects during Nicotine Withdrawal via Improvement of Amygdaloid CRF/CRF1R Signaling
Changhong Gu,1 ZhengLin Zhao,1,2 Xiaodong Zhu,3 Tong Wu,1 Bong Hyo Lee,2 Yu Jiao,1 Chul Won Lee,2 Dae Hwa Jung,2 Chae Ha Yang,2Rongjie Zhao,1,2,3 and Sang Chan Kim2
Abstract
Anxiety during nicotine withdrawal (NicW) is a key risk factor for smoking relapse. Semen Ziziphi Spinosae(SZS), which is a prototypical hypnotic-sedative herb in Oriental medicine, has been clinically used to treat insomnia and general anxiety disorders for thousands of years. Thus, the present study evaluated the effects of the aqueous extract of SZS (AESZS) on NicW-induced anxiety in male rats that received subcutaneous administrations of nicotine (Nic) (0.4 mg/kg, twice a day) for 7 d followed by 4 d of withdrawal. During NicW, the rats received four intragastric treatments of AESZS (60 mg/kg/d or 180 mg/kg/d). AESZS dose-dependently attenuated NicW-induced anxiety-like behaviors in the elevated plus maze (EPM) tests and 180 mg/kg/d AESZS inhibited NicW-induced increases in plasma corticosterone. Additionally, the protein and mRNA expressions of corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) and CRF type 1 receptor (CRF1R) increased in the central nucleus of the amygdala (CeA) during NicW, but these changes were suppressed by 180 mg/kg/d AESZS. A post-AESZS infusion of CRF into the CeA abolished the attenuation of anxiety by AESZS and 180 mg/kg/d AESZS suppressed NicW-induced increases in norepinephrine and 3-methoxy-4-hydroxy-phenylglycol levels in the CeA. The present results suggest that AESZS ameliorated NicW-induced anxiety via improvements in CRF/CRF1R and noradrenergic signaling in the CeA.
Source : Evidence Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
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Jinghua Weikang capsule protects against Helicobacter pylori-induced inflammatory responses via the nuclear factor-kappa B signaling pathway
Shi Zongminga Ye Huia Yu Jinga Cheng Hongb Li Jiangb Zhang Xuezhia
Abstract
OBJECTIVE
To investigate the inhibitory effect of Jinghua Weikang capsule (JWC) on gastric inflammation induced by Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) via the nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) signaling pathway in Kunming mice.
METHODS
We investigated the anti-inflammation potential of JWC extract in vivo in a H. pylori-induced gastritis mouse model. The expression of inflammation-related molecules was evaluated by Western blotting, and the concentrations of in vivo inflammatory markers were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Inflammatory cell infiltration was evaluated by histopathological examination, and mRNA levels of related genes were evaluated by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction.
RESULTS
JWC had a dose-dependent protective effect against H. pylori-induced gastritis by protecting gastric epithelial cells and inhibiting inflammatory cell infiltration. Mechanistically, JWC decreased the protein levels of phosphorylated IκBα and NF-κB p65, mRNA levels of NF-κB pathway molecules, and plasma levels of tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin 1beta.
CONCLUSION
An important finding of our study is that JWC attenuated gastrointestinal inflammation and ulceration and exerted a protective effect against gastric injury via inhibition of inflammation reactions and regulating the canonical NF-κB signaling pathway in vivo.
Source: Journal Traditional Chinese Medicine
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Feifukang ameliorates pulmonary fibrosis by inhibiting JAK-STAT signaling pathway
- Hongbo Li†,
- Zhenkai Wang†,
- Jie Zhang,
- Youlei Wang,
- Chen Yu,
- Jinjin Zhang,
- Xiaodong SongEmail author and
- Changjun Lv
Background
Feifukang (FFK) is a traditional Chinese medicine composed of herbs that protect lung function. However, difficulty arises regarding the clinical application of FFK due to the complex mechanism of Chinese medicines. This study aimed to investigate the efficacy of FFK and explore its targeted genes and pathways.
Methods
Histopathological changes and collagen deposition were measured to evaluate the effect of FFK on bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis in mice. The differentially expressed targeted genes and pathways were first screened using RNA sequencing. Then network pharmacology and other experiments were conducted to confirm RNA sequencing data.
Results
FFK treatment reduced the pathological score and collagen deposition, with a decrease in α-SMA and collagen. RNA sequencing and network pharmacology results all showed that FFK can ameliorate pulmonary fibrosis through multi-genes and multi-pathways. The targeted genes in JAK-STAT signaling pathway are some of the most notable components of these multi-genes and multi-pathways. Further experiments illustrated that FFK regulated phosphorylation of SMAD3, STAT3 and JAK1, and their co-expressed lncRNAs, which all are the important genes in JAK-STAT signaling pathway.
Conclusion
FFK can ameliorate pulmonary fibrosis by inhibiting JAK-STAT signaling pathway and has potential therapeutic value for lung fibrosis treatment. Our study provides a new idea for the study of traditional Chinese medicine.
Source : BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine
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Yiguanjian cataplasm attenuates opioid dependence in a mouse model of naloxone-induced opioid withdrawal syndrome
- Gao Shuaia,
- Gao Hongb,
- Fan Yuchenc, d,
- Zhang Guanghuab,
- Sun Fengkaia,
- Zhao Jinga,
- Li Fenga,
- Yang Yanga,
- Wang Kaic, d
Abstract
ObjectiveTo investigate the effect of Yiguanjian (YGJ) cataplasm on the development of opioid dependence in a mouse model of naloxone-induced opioid withdrawal syndrome.
MethodsOne hundred Swiss albino mice, of equal male to female ratio, were randomly and equally divided into 10 groups. A portion (3 cm2) of the backside hair of the mice was removed 1 day prior to the experiment. Morphine (5 mg/kg) was intraperitoneally administered twice daily for 5 days. YGJ cataplasm was prepared and pasted on the bare region of the mice immediately before morphine administration on day 3 and subsequently removed at the end day 5. On day 6, naloxone (8 mg/kg) was intraperitoneally injected to precipitate opioid withdrawal syndrome. Behavioral observation was performed in two 30-min phases immediately after naloxone injection.
ResultsThe YGJ cataplasm significantly and dose-dependently attenuated morphine-naloxone-induced experimental opioid withdrawal, in terms of withdrawal severity score and the frequencies of jumping, rearing, forepaw licking, and circling behaviors. However, YGJ cataplasm treatment did not alter the acute analgesic effect of morphine.
ConclusionYGJ cataplasm could attenuate opioid dependence and its associated withdrawal symptoms. Therefore, YGJ cataplasm could serve as a potential therapy for opioid addiction in the future.
Source Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine
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Memory Impairment, Dementia, and Alzheimer's Disease in Classical and Contemporary Traditional Chinese Medicine
May Brian H., Feng Mei, Zhou Iris W., Chang Su-yueh, Lu Shao-chen, Zhang Anthony L., Guo Xin-feng, Lu Chuan-jian, and Xue Charlie C.L..
Abstract
Objectives: To identify and analyze records of the treatment of dementia and memory disorders in the classical Chinese medical literature that were consistent with the signs and symptoms of Alzheimer's disease (AD), with the aim of determining which traditional medicines have histories of use for these disorders.
Methods: Encyclopedia of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Zhong Hua Yi Dian), a database of more than 1000 classical and premodern Chinese medical books, was systematically searched. Search terms were identified from dictionaries, medical nomenclatures, guidelines, and specialist clinical manuals on aging, neurology, or brain disorders. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were used to identify citations of conditions whose signs and symptoms were consistent with the clinical features of AD. Passages of text identified by these terms were copied to Microsoft Excel spreadsheets, together with the identity of the source book and all relevant information on the disorder and the intervention. Each distinct passage of text was considered a citation. The frequencies of the traditional formulas used as interventions and their constituent ingredients were calculated.
Results: The selection criteria identified 1498 citations of dementia and memory impairments derived from 277 different books written from circa 363 to 1945 AD. In 91 of these citations, memory impairment was associated with aging and was broadly consistent with the clinical features of AD. Although the interventions varied in name,Poria cocos, Polygala tenuifolia, Rehmannia glutinosa, Panax ginseng, and Acorus species consistently appeared as ingredients in multiple formulas for memory impairment in the context of aging.
Conclusions: Memory impairment in older age was a recognized condition in the classical literature. Many of the traditional medicines frequently used as ingredients in classical formulas for memory impairment consistent with clinical features of AD remain in contemporary use, and experimental studies suggest biological activities relevant to AD.
Source : Journal Alternative and Complementary Medicine
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Kuntai Capsule Inhibited Endometriosis via Inducing Apoptosis in a Rat Mode
lRuihua Zhong,1 Aying Ma,1 Jianping Zhu,2 Guoting Li,1 Shuwu Xie,1 Zhao Li,1 Youlun Gui,1 and Yan Zhu1
Abstract
We evaluated the effectiveness of Kuntai Capsule (KTC) for treating endometriosis using rat model and investigated its preliminary mechanism of action involved. SD rats were implanted with endometrial tissues and treated with KTC for three weeks. Then, laparotomy was performed to examine volume changes of the autografts. The serum levels of TNF-α, IL-6, COX-2, E2, and P4 were measured through ELISA. TUNEL was performed to analyze the apoptosis on ectopic endometrium. Protein levels of caspases 8, 9, and 3 and cytochrome c in the ectopic and eutopic endometrium were measured by western blotting. Results showed that KTC significantly decreased the volumes of ectopic endometrium. The level of TNF-α increased and E2decreased in the KTC treatment groups. TUNEL and western blot assay showed that KTC could induce apoptosis of endometriotic tissues, accompanied with the increased protein expression of caspases 8 and 9, activated caspase-3, and cytochrome c in a dose-dependent manner. However, these protein expression profiles were not affected in eutopic endometrium. Our findings suggest that KTC could inhibit the growth of ectopic endometrial tissue through upregulating the level of TNF-α and its downstream signaling, including caspases and cytochrome c.
Source : Journal Evidence Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
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Sequential Treatments with Tongsai and Bufei Yishen Granules Reduce Inflammation and Improve Pulmonary Function in Acute Exacerbation-Risk Window of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease in Rats
Xiaofan Lu,1,2 Ya Li,3,4,5 Jiansheng Li,2,3,6 Haifeng Wang,3,6 Zhaohuan Wu,2,3 Hangjie Li,2,3 and Yang Wang2,3
Abstract
Background. Sequential treatments of Chinese medicines for acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD) risk window (RW) have benefits for preventing reoccurrences of AEs; however, the effects on pulmonary function, pulmonary, and systemic inflammatory biomarkers remain unclear.
Methods. Cigarette-smoke/bacterial infections induced rats were randomized into Control, COPD, AECOPD, Tongsai Granule/normal saline (TSG/NS), moxifloxacin + salbutamol/NS (MXF+STL/NS), TSG/Bufei Yishen Granule (BYG), MXF+STL/STL, and TSG+MXF+STL/BYG+STL groups and given corresponding medicine(s) in AE- and/or RW phase. Body temperature, pulmonary function, blood cytology, serum amyloid A (SAA) and C-reactive protein (CRP), pulmonary histomorphology and myeloperoxidase (MPO), polymorphonuclear (PMN) elastase, interleukins IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-10, and tumor necrosis factor- (TNF-) α expressions were determined.
Results. Body temperature, inflammatory cells and cytokines, SAA, CRP, and pulmonary impairment were higher in AECOPD rats than stable COPD, while pulmonary function declined and recovered to COPD level in 14–18 days. All biomarkers were improved in treated groups with shorter recovery times of 4–10 days, especially in TSG+MXF+STL/BYG+STL group.
Conclusion. Sequential treatments with Tongsai and Bufei Yishen Granules, during AECOPD-RW periods, can reduce inflammatory response and improve pulmonary function and shorten the recovery courses of AEs, especially the integrated Chinese and Western medicines.
Source : Evidence Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine Journal
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Formula PSORI-CM01 eliminates psoriasis by inhibiting the expression of keratinocyte cyclin B2
- Jian-an Wei†,
- Ling Han†,
- Chuan-jian Lu†
- Rui-zhi Zhao†,
- Jing Sun,
- Yue Lu and
- Han-jie Lin
Abstract
Background Psoriasis is a chronically recurrent inflammatory skin disease, modern medicine could achieve good therapeutic effect, but these treatments led to recurrence of the psoriasis, more severe symptoms due to damaging skin barrier. Traditional Chinese medicine is a useful alternative therapies. The purpose of this study was to explore the mechanism of PSORI-CM01, a Chinese medicine formula for psoriasis therapy, in eliminating psoriasis by studying its effects on inhibiting epidermal hyperplasia.
Methods Imiquimod induced psoriasis-form mice model was used to determine the efficacy of PSORICM-01 by assessing the improvement of hyperplasia in epidermal and dermal skin, cyclin B2 expression in skin was detected by immunochemistry. Human keratinocyte cell line HaCaT stimulated by LPS or not was used to research molecular mechanisms of PSORIMCM-01 as in vitro model. The inhibition of proliferation of HaCaT was determined by MTT assay, BrdU assay and real-time cell analysis (RTCA). Cell cycle distribution was detected by flow cytometry. Real-Time PCR and western blot analysis was performed to quantify the mRNA and protein expression levels, respectively. The ability of PSORICM-01 to inhibit proliferation of cyclin B2 overexpressed HaCaT cell were also investigated.
Results PSORI-CM01 significantly inhibited epidermal hyperplasia in IMQ mice lesion skin, and reduced expression of epidermis cyclin B2. Serum containing PSORI-CM01 dramatically inhibited keratinocyte HaCaT cell proliferation, no matter stimulated by LPS or not. FACS analysis showed ability of PSORICM-01 to arrest cell cycle in the G2/M phase. Additionally, PSORI-CM01 significant downregulated mRNA and protein expression of cyclin B2, and over-expression of cyclin B2 antagonized the anti-proliferative effect of PSORI-CM01 on HaCaT cells.
Conclusions PSORI-CM01 inhibits epidermal hyperplasia in imiquimod-induced mouse psoriasis-form model and reduces keratinocyte proliferation in vitro. Our results indicate that PSORI-CM01 may possess therapeutic potential for psoriasis by inhibiting keratinocyte proliferation through downregulation of cyclin B2.
Source : BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine Journal
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Herbal composition of Cinnamomum cassia, Pinus densiflora, Curcuma longa and Glycyrrhiza glabra prevents atherosclerosis by upregulating p27 (Kip1) expression
- Jung-Jin Lee,
- Ji-Hye Lee,
- Won-Kyung Cho,
- Joo-Hui Han and
- Jin Yeul Ma
Background Kiom-18 is a novel composition of Cinnamomum cassia, Pinus densiflora, Curcuma longa and Glycyrrhiza glabra. Curcuma longa and Glycyrrhiza glabra, which are traditional medicines in Asia, have been reported to demonstrate preventive effects against atherosclerosis; however, they have not yet been developed into functional atherosclerosis treatments. We therefore studied the anti-atherosclerotic effects and possible molecular mechanisms of Kiom-18 using vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs).
MethodsTo assess the anti-proliferative effect of Kiom-18 in vitro, we performed thymidine incorporation, cell cycle progression, immunoblotting and immunofluorescence assays in VSMCs stimulated by platelet derived-growth factor (PDGF)-BB. In addition, we used LDLr knockout mice to identify the effects of Kiom-18 as a preliminary result in an atherosclerosis animal model.
Results Kiom-18 inhibited platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-BB-stimulated-VSMC proliferation and DNA synthesis. Additionally, Kiom-18 arrested the cell cycle transition of G0/G1 stimulated by PDGF-BB and its cell cycle-related proteins. Correspondingly, the level of p27kip1 expression was upregulated in the presence of the Kiom-18 extract. Moreover, in an atherosclerosis animal model of LDLr knockout mice, Kiom-18 extract showed a preventive effect for the formation of atherosclerotic plaque and suppressed body weight, fat weight, food treatment efficiency, neutrophil count, and triglyceride level.
Conclusions These results indicate that Kiom-18 exerts anti-atherosclerotic effects by inhibiting VSMC proliferation via G0/G1 arrest, which upregulates p27Kip1 expression.
Source BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine
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Tripterygium wilfordii Hook F versus conventional synthetic disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs as monotherapy for rheumatoid arthritis: a systematic review and network meta-analysis
- Hai-Long Wang
- Quan Jiang,
- Xing-Hua Feng,
- Hua-Dong Zhang,
- Lin Ge,
- Cheng-Gui Luo,
- Xun Gong and
- Bo Li
Abstract
Background Tripterygium wilfordii Hook F (TwHF), a medicinal plant that has been widely used in Chinese traditional medicine, is proven effective for treating rheumatoid arthritis (RA), but its clinical efficacy and safety remain largely undefined in comparison with conventional synthetic disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs).
Methods PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, CNKI, VIP, CBM, and WanFang Databases. Endpoints were ACR 20, 50, and 70, and the number of withdrawals due to adverse events. Initially, traditional pairwise meta-analysis was performed by using a random-effects model. Then, we performed network meta-analysis to compare different therapies by using frequentist approach.
Results A total of 22 trials (5255 participants) were identified. By direct comparison, TwHF was superior to sulphasalazine according to ACR 20, 50 and 70. TwHF was superior to placebo according to ACR 20 and 50. By indirect comparisons, TwHF was superior to methotrexate, leflunomide, sulphasalazine, tacrolimus, minocycline and placebo according to ACR 20. Ranking by the Surface under the Cumulative Ranking curve (SUCRA) values showed that TwHF had the greatest probability for being the best treatment option according to ACR 20 (92.0 %) and ACR 50 (81.3 %), and the highest probability to be in the second (57.8 %) ranking position after leflunomide (69.6 %) according to ACR 70. By both direct and indirect comparisons, TwHF caused no more significant withdrawals than the placebo. The SUCRA values showed that TwHF had the highest probability to rank sixth (26.7 %) after the placebo (45.6 %) in causing withdrawals.
Conclusions Our data suggest that TwHF is effective and safe in the treatment of RA and has better clinical efficacy in terms of ACR 20 and 50 than existing conventional synthetic DMARDs. In the absence of head-to-head treatment comparison, the confidence in these estimates is low. Future comparative efficacy studies are warranted.
Source : BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine
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[Effect of Chinese Herbs Used in Treating Multiple Sclerosis on T Subsets Using Association Rules].
[Article in Chinese]
Zhang Q, Li T, Xu YG, Yang XH
Abstract
OBJECTIVE:To analyze the effect of Chinese herbs used by Prof. LI Tao on peripheral blood T subsets in treating multiple sclerosis (MS) by using association rules and statistical methods, thereby providing evidence for optimizing prescriptions.
METHODS:Data of MS inpatients and outpatients recorded by data collecting system, Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences were resorted. The relationship between Chinese herbs and T cell subsets were analyzed using SPSS17.0 and Aprior module in SPSS Clementine 12.0.
RESULTS:Radix bupleuri, Radix Paeoniae alba, Fructus Aurantii, Atractylodes, and Radix Glycyrrhizae were most commonly used herbal combinations.Radix Aconiti lateralis preparata and Rhizoma Smilacis glabrae were often added. Radix Aconiti lateralis preparata was associated with decreased Th1 cells (confidence level 83.78%, supportive level 36.26%). Decreased Th1 cell was associated with Radix Aconiti lateralis preparata (confidence level 71.26%, supportive level 36.26%).Radix Aconiti lateralis preparata was obviously associated with decreased Th1 cells. Radix Bupleuri, Radix Paeoniae alba, bitter orange, Atractylodes , Radix glycyrrhizae, and Radix Aconiti lateralis preparata could reduce peripheral blood Th1 subsets of MS patients and elevate Th2 subsets (all P < 0.01).
CONCLUSIONS:The herbal combination of Radix Bupleuri, Radix Paeoniae alba, Fructus Aurantii, Atractylodes, Radix Glycyrrhizae, Rhizoma Smilacis glabrae, and Radix Aconiti lateralis preparata could lower peripheral blood Th1 cells and elevate Th2 cells, and prevent the relapse of MS possibly by reducing Th1 cells and elevating Th2 cells. Especially Radix Aconiti lateralis preparata played important roles in aforesaid changes of Th1 and Th2.
Source : US National Library of Medicine National Institutes of Health
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Effect of TongXie-YaoFang on Cl− and HCO3- Transport in Diarrhea-Predominant Irritable Bowel Syndrome Rats
Xiaofang Lu, Shengsheng Zhang, Cheng Yang, Zhengfang Wang, Luqing Zhao, Zhenyu Wu, and Jing Xie
Abstract
TongXie-YaoFang (TXYF) can effectively alleviate the symptoms of diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome (D-IBS) patients. However, the curative mechanism has not been fully clarified. The study was designed to investigate the effect of TXYF on the colonic ion transport induced by serotonin (5-HT) in D-IBS rats. A method of multiple stress (neonatal maternal separation (NMS) combined with restraint stress (RS)) was used to induce the D-IBS model. The model rats were randomly divided into two groups: NMS + RS group and TXYF-formula group, and the normal control (no handling) rats were classified as NH group. In the NMS + RS group, the change of short-circuit current (ΔIsc) induced by 5-HT was lower than that in the NH and TXYF-formula groups. After removing of the extracellular Cl− or HCO3- or basolateral Na+ or blocking the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR), Na+-K+-2Cl− cotransporter (NKCC), Na+-HCO3- cotransporter, Cl-/HCO3- exchanger, K+ channel, or Na+/K+-ATPase, respectively, there was no difference in 5-HT-induced ΔIsc among the three groups. These data suggest that TXYF can regulate 5-HT-induced Cl− and HCO3- secretion, possibly mediated by the combined action of CFTR, NKCC,
Na+-HCO3- cotransporter, Cl-/HCO3- exchanger, K+ channel, and Na+/K+-ATPase.
Source : Evidence Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
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Chinese medicines in the treatment of experimental diabetic nephropathy
- Jing-Yi Liu,
- Xiao-Xin Chen,
- Sydney Chi-Wai TangEmail author,
- Stephen Cho-Wing Sze,
- Yi-Bin Feng,
- Kai-Fai Lee and
- Kalin Yan-Bo Zhang
Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is a severe micro vascular complication accompanying diabetes mellitus that affects millions of people worldwide. End-stage renal disease occurs in nearly half of all DN patients, resulting in large medical costs and lost productivity. The course of DN progression is complicated, and effective and safe therapeutic strategies are desired. While the complex nature of DN renders medicines with a single therapeutic target less efficacious, Chinese medicine, with its holistic view targeting the whole system of the patient, has exhibited efficacy for DN management. This review aims to describe the experimental evidence for Chinese medicines in DN management, with an emphasis on the underlying mechanisms, and to discuss the combined use of herbs and drugs in DN treatment.
Conclusion
CMs provides an alternative for DN management in all stages of experimental DN models, especially in the early and incipient stages of DN, and the synergistic administration of CM herbs with conventional drugs exhibited better efficacy than drugs alone in DN treatment.
Source : Journal Chinese Medicine
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Immunomodulation and liver protection of Yinchenhao decoction against concanavalin A-induced chronic liver injury in mice
1.Shi-li Jiang (Department of Liver Cirrhosis, Shuguang Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China )
2.Xu-dong Hu (Department of Biology, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China )
3.Ping Liu (E-institute of Shanghai Municipal Education Committee, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China )
ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE: This study investigated the immunoregulatory and protective roles of Yinchenhao decoction, a compound of Chinese herbal medicine, in a mouse model of concanavalin A (ConA)-induced chronic liver injury.
METHODS: Female BalB/c mice were randomly divided into 4 groups: normal control, ConA model, ConA model treated with Yinchenhao decoction (400 mg/kg, orally), and ConA model treated with dexamethasone (0.5 mg/kg, orally). All treatments were given once a day for 28 d. Except of the normal control, mice received tail vein injection of ConA (10 mg/kg) on days 7, 14, 21, and 28, at 1 h after treatment with Yinchenhao decoction or dexamethasone or saline to induce chronic liver injury.
RESULTS: Repeated ConA injection induced chronic liver injury, which was evidenced by inflammatory cell infiltration and necrosis, increased serum alanine aminotranferease activities, decreased albumin levels, and an imbalanced expression of immunoregulatory genes in the liver tissues including significantly enhanced interferon-γ, interleukin-4, monocyte chemotactic protein-1, and cluster of differentiation 163 mRNA levels, and reduced tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin-6 mRNA levels. Treatment with Yinchenhao decoction significantly reversed the ConA-induced changes in immunoregulatory gene expression in the liver tissues, reduced serum alanine aminotranferease activity, enhanced serum albumin level, and attenuated the extent of liver inflammation and necrosis. Furthermore, Yinchenhao decoction did not result in hepatocyte degeneration and spleen weight loss that were observed in mice received long-term treatment with dexamethasone.
CONCLUSION: Yinchenhao decoction treatment protected liver against the ConA-induced chronic liver damage and improved liver function, which were associated with the modulation of gene expression related to immune/inflammatory response.
Source : Journal Integrative Medicine
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Effect of Xinfeng capsule in the treatment of active rheumatoid arthritis: a randomized controlled trial
Abstract
Objective To explore the use of Xinfeng capsule (XFC) in the treatment of active rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and its effect on immunoglobulin titer, B cell-activating factor (BAFF) and its receptor (BAFF-R).
Methods A multi-center randomized, double-blind, parallel-controlled study was conducted. 45 RA patients were assigned to two groups: one was treated with XFC plus the placebo for leflunomide (LEF) and the second group was treated with LEF plus XFC placebo, for 12 weeks. The clinical and laboratory parameters were collected at baseline and at 12 weeks.
Results After 12 weeks of treatment, patients in the two groups all showed an therapeutic effect when ACR20, ACR50 and ACR70 were compared, but the differences between two groups were not significant (P < 0.05). The serum levels of IgG1, BAFF and BAFF-R in the XFC group were lower than those in the LEF group (P < 0.05). The level IgG subtypes correlated with clinical parameters; IgG2 levels positively correlated with C-reactive protein (CRP) (P < 0.01); IgG3 levels positively correlated with white blood cell count and CRP (P < 0.01); IgG4 levels positively correlated with Complement 4 (C4) (P < 0.01); the level of BAFF negatively correlated with Lymphocyte (LYMPH#) (P < 0.01); however, BAFF-R positively correlated with Platelet (PLT) and a1-acid glycoprotein (AGP) (P < 0.01).
Conclusion XFC can regulate the level of BAFF/BAFF-R in active rheumatoid arthritis and improve the levels of immunoglobulins in RA patients.
Source : Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine
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Wenyang Huazhuo Tongluo formula, a Chinese herbal decoction, improves skin fibrosis by promoting apoptosis and inhibiting proliferation through down-regulation of survivin and cyclin D1 in systemic sclerosis
- Li Han,
- Hua Bian
- Jingfeng Ouyang,
- Yuefeng Bi,
- Lei Yang and
- Songshan Ye
Abstract
BackgroundFibrosis is a major contributor to systemic sclerosis (SSc)-related morbidity, and rapid, progressive skin involvement predicts later mortality. Western medicine therapies for SSc cannot produce satisfactory effects currently, while Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), such as the Wenyang Huazhuo Tongluo (WYHZTL) formula, a Chinese herbal decoction, has shown amazing anti-fibrosis efficacy on SSc in clinical applications. This study is aiming to investigate the anti-fibrotic mechanism of WYHZTL formula for the treatment of SSc.
MethodsFibroblasts from primary culture of skin lesions of SSc patients were exposed to rat medicated sera containing WYHZTL or XAV939, a small-molecule inhibitor of both tankyrase 1/2 and Wnt/β-catenin pathway. Cell counting kit-8 assay and Annexin V FITC/PI apoptosis kit were used to analyze cell proliferation and apoptosis in fibroblasts, respectively. Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and western blotting were used to detect the mRNA and protein levels of cyclin D1 and survivin.
ResultsAfter 28, 48 and 72 h of incubation, the proliferative ability of the fibroblasts cells was obviously reduced by the sera containing WYHZTL compared with that in the control group; the percentage of apoptotic cell population in the sera containing WYHZTL treated fibroblasts cells was significantly higher than that in those treated with the control sera, and was about similar to that in those treated with XAV939. The sera containing WYHZTL could down-regulate both mRNA and protein levels of cyclin D1 and survivin, compared with the control group.
ConclusionsThe present study demonstrates the antiproliferative and pro-apoptotic actions of WYHZTL formula against fibroblasts and the effect may be related to the down-regulation of mRNA and protein levels of cyclin D1 and survivin in SSc.
Source : BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine
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Gualou Xiebai decoction inhibits cardiac dysfunction and inflammation in cardiac fibrosis rats
- Yong-fang DingEmail author,
- Yun-ru Peng,
- Hong Shen,
- Luan Shu and
- Ying-jie Wei
Abstract
Background
Gualou Xiebai Decoction (GXD) is a well-known traditional Chinese recipe. It has been used to treat cardiovascular disorders for nearly two thousand years. But there is a lack of reports on cardiac fibrosis and underlying mechanism.
Methods
Myocardial infarction was performed by ligation of left anterior descending coronary artery (LAD) in male Wistar rats. Rats with myocardial infarction were treated with GXD (1.14 g/kg, 4.53 g/kg) daily for 4 weeks. Cardiac function was evaluated by echocardiography. Hemodynamic parameters and infarct size were measured in each group. Myocardial enzymes were examined by biochemical tests. Inflammatory cytokines were assessed by ELISA, and interrelated proteins were detected by western blot.
Results
Cardiac function was significantly improved in GXD-treatment rats after myocardial infarction (MI), which was accompanied with decreased infarct size. Administration of GXD to myocardial fibrosis rats significantly ameliorated the activities of AST, LDH and CK-MB in serum. The increase in inflammatory factors (TNF-α, IL-1β) were markedly reduced upon GXD treatment. Furthermore, the inflammatory mediators (NF-κB p65, TNF-α, MCP-1) were down-regulated by GXD in the myocardial fibrosis rats.
Conclusions
Treatment with GXD improved cardiac function induced by myocardial fibrosis by inhibiting expression of inflammatory mediators associated with NF-κB.
Source : BMC Evidence Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
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Wen-Xin Decoction ameliorates vascular endothelium dysfunction via the PI3K/AKT/eNOS pathway in experimental atherosclerosis in rats
- Tongda Li†,
- Dongmei Li†,
- Hui Xu,
- Huamin Zhang,
- Danli Tang and
- Hongxin Cao
Abstract
Background
Nitric oxide (NO) is the most powerful vasodilator that inhibits leukocyte adhesion, platelet aggregation, and vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation. However, excessive NO can cause lipid peroxidation and direct endothelial cell damage. Therefore, investigation of the role of NO in artherosclerosis development is important. Wen-Xin Decoction (WXD) has been shown to relieve myocardial ischemia reperfusion injury and prevent leukocyte adhesion and invasion; in addition, it can accelerate angiogenesis and prevent platelet activation and aggregation. In this study, we focused on the NO pathway to further clarify the protective effects of WXD on the vascular endothelium in rat models of artherosclerosis.
Methods
Wistar rats were randomly divided into a normal group (n = 10) and a model group (n = 75). Rat models of atherosclerosis were generated by intraperitoneal vitamin D3 (3 months) injections and administration of a high-fat diet (3 months with vitamin D3 and 2 months alone). The model rats were randomly divided into five groups (n = 15 each): model (saline), atorvastatin (4.8 mg/kg/d atorvastatin), high-dose WXD (9 g/kg/d), medium-dose WXD (4.5 g/kg/d), and low-dose WXD (2.25 g/kg/d) groups. Each group received continuous drug or saline administration (suspended liquid gavage) for 30 days, following which all animals were sacrificed. The ultrastructure and histopathological changes of vascular endothelial cells and the expression of PI3K/AKT/eNOS and iNOS in the thoracic aorta tissue were analyzed.
Results
WXD increased NO levels, modulated the NO/ET-1 ratio, and promoted repair of the injured vascular endothelium in a dose-dependent manner. At a high dose, WXD regulated the NO/ET-1 ratio as effectively as atorvastatin; furthermore, it increased NO levels within the physiological range to prevent endothelial damage caused by excessive NO expression. Real-time polymerase chain reaction and Western blot analysis showed that WXD significantly upregulated the mRNA and protein expressions of PI3K, AKT, and eNOS mRNA and significantly increased AKT and eNOS phosphorylation.
ConclusionsO
Our results suggest that WXD protects and maintains the integrity of the vascular endothelium by activating the PI3K/AKT/eNOS pathway, decreasing iNOS expression, and promoting the release of physiological NO levels.
Source : BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine
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The Protective Effects of Buzui on Acute Alcoholism in Mice
Chen Chen,1 Da-Chao Wen,2 Shu-di Gao,3 Xiao-yu Hu,3 and Cheng Yi1
Abstract
This study was designed to investigate the role of a traditional buzui recipe in anti-inebriation treatment. Buzui consists of Fructus Schisandrae Chinensis, Fructus Chebulae, Fructus Mume, Fructus Crataegi, Endothelium Corneum Gigeriae Galli, and Excrementum Bombycis. The buzui mixture was delivered by gavage, and ethanol was delivered subsequent to the final treatment. The effects of buzui on the righting reflex, inebriation rates, and the survival curve are depicted. Blood alcohol concentrations, alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels, aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels, and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) levels were recorded. The activities of alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH), aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH), and superoxide dismutase (SOD), as well as malonaldehyde (MDA) levels, were also measured. Our results demonstrated that a traditional buzui recipe showed significant effects on promoting wakefulness and the prevention of acute alcohol intoxication, accelerating the metabolism of alcohol in the liver and reducing the oxidative damage caused by acute alcoholism.
Source : Evidence Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
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Qing-dai powder promotes recovery of colitis by inhibiting inflammatory responses of colonic macrophages in dextran sulfate sodium-treated mice
Hai-Tao Xiao12, Jiao Peng3, Dong-Dong Hu14, Cheng-Yuan Lin1, Bin Du1, Siu-Wai Tsang1,Ze-si Lin15, Xiao-Jun Zhang16, Feng-Ping Lueng1, Quan-Bin Han1 and Zhao-Xiang Bian1*
Abstract
Background
Qing-dai powder (QDP), comprising Indigo naturalis (Qing-dai) and dried alum (Ku-fan), was used in Chinese medicine to treat the conditions associated with mucosal hemorrhage, such as ulcerative colitis (UC). This study aims to investigate the effects and potential mechanism of QDP on dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced acute colitis in mice and to examine the regulatory effects of QDP on macrophages.
Methods
Seven- to eight-week-old male C57BL/6 mice were challenged with 2.0 % DSS in drinking water for 5 days and then the colitic mice were arbitrarily allocated into five groups (n = 10 for each group). QDP (0.77, 1.54 and 3.08 g/kg) and sulfasalazine (SASP) (0.20 g/kg) were orally administered for 7 days. The disease activity index was determined by scores of body weight loss, diarrhea and rectal bleeding; histological signs of damage was analyzed by H&E staining; myeloperoxidase activity was measured by colorimetric method, levels of proinflammatory cytokines were determined by ELISA; changes in macrophages in the colon were analyzed by immunohistochemistry (IHC) and flow cytometry. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced RAW264.7 cells were treated with or without QDP, then the production of TNF-α and IL-6 were measured by ELISA; and protein molecules such as COX-2, iNOS, IкB-α were determined by Western blot.
Results
Oral administration of QDP at dosages of 1.54 and 3.08 g/kg significantly reduced disease activity index on day 12 (P < 0.001 for 1.54 g/kg and P < 0.0008 for 3.08 g/kg), colon shortening (P = 0.012 for 1.54 g/kg, P = 0.001 for 3.08 g/kg), histological damage (P < 0.001 for 1.54 g/kg,P < 0.001 for 3.08 g/kg) and colonic myeloperoxidase activity (P = 0.002 for 1.54 g/kg, P < 0.001 for 3.08 g/kg) of DSS-treated mice. Moreover, QDP treatment (1.54 and 3.08 g/kg) significantly decreased DSS-induced infiltration of macrophages, and production of TNF-α (P = 0.005 for 1.54 g/kg, P = 0.002 for 3.08 g/kg), IL-1β (P = 0.008 for 1.54 g/kg, P = 0.002 for 3.08 g/kg) and IL-6 (P = 0.011 for 1.54 g/kg, P = 0.004 for 3.08 g/kg) in colonic tissues, and also reduced serum MCP-1 levels (P = 0.001 for 1.54 g/kg, P < 0.001 for 3.08 g/kg). In RAW264.7 cells, QDP significantly suppressed LPS-induced production of TNF-α and IL-6 (Both P < 0.001 for 1.0 μg/mL QDP treatment) and expression levels of COX-2 (P = 0.002 and P = 0.001 for 1 and 3 μg/mL QDP treatment, respectively) and iNOS (P < 0.001 for 3 μg/mL QDP treatment) by inhibiting IкB-α degradation (P = 0.007 and P = 0.004 for 1 and 3 μg/mL QDP treatment, respectively) and NF-кB p65 nuclear translocation.
Conclusion
QDP suppressed the inflammatory responses of colonic macrophages in DSS-induced UC in mice and LPS-induced RAW264.7 cells.
Source : Journal Chinese Medicine
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Comparative Efficacy of Tongxinluo Capsule and Beta-Blockers in Treating Angina Pectoris: Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Abstract
Objective: There have been no systematic reviews, let alone meta-analyses, of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing tongxinluo capsule (TXL) and beta-blockers in treating angina pectoris. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of TXL and beta-blockers in treating angina pectoris by a meta-analysis of eligible RCTs.
Methods: The RCTs comparing TXL with beta-blockers (including metoprolol) in treating angina pectoris were searched and retrieved from databases including PubMed, Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure, and WanFang Data. Eligible RCTs were selected according to prespecified criteria. Meta-analysis was performed on the odds ratios (OR) of symptomatic and electrocardiographic (ECG) improvements after treatment. Subgroup analysis, sensitivity analysis, meta-regression, and publication biases analysis were conducted to evaluate the robustness of the results.
Results: Seventy-three RCTs published between 2000 and 2014 with 7424 participants were eligible. Overall ORs comparing TXL with beta-blockers were 3.40 (95% confidence interval [CI], 2.97–3.89; p<0.0001) for symptomatic improvement and 2.63 (95% CI, 2.29–3.02; p<0.0001) for ECG improvement. Subgroup analysis and sensitivity analysis found no statistically significant dependence of overall ORs on specific study characteristics except efficacy criteria. Meta-regression found no significant except sample sizes for data on symptomatic improvement. Publication biases were statistically significant.
Conclusion: TXL seems to be more effective than beta-blockers in treating angina pectoris, on the basis of the eligible RCTs. Further RCTs are warranted to reduce publication bias and verify efficacy.
Source : Journal Alternative and Complementary Medicine
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Tiao He Yi Wei Granule, a Traditional Chinese Medicine, against Ethanol-Induced Gastric Ulcer in Mice
Jinfu Yao
Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun 130117, China
Abstract
Tiao He Yi Wei granule (DHYW), a traditional Chinese medicine, has been used for the treatment of gastric ulcer in clinical setting. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the possible effect of DHYW and explore the underlying mechanism against ethanol-induced gastric ulcer in mice. The model of ethanol-induced gastric ulcer in mice was induced by ethanol (0.2 mL/kg). Administration of DHYW at the doses of 250, 500 mg/kg body weight prior to the ethanol ingestion could effectively protect the stomach from ulceration. The gastric lesions were significantly ameliorated in the DHYW group compared with that in the model group. Treatment with DHYW markedly decreased the levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6), IL-1β, and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α). In addition, DHYW treatment elevated myeloperoxidase (MPO) level in stomach, increased superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, and decreased malonaldehyde (MDA) content in serum and stomach compared with those in the model group. DHYW significantly inhibited NF-κB pathway expressions in the gastric mucosa ulcer group. Taken together, DHYW exerted a gastroprotective effect against gastric ulceration and the underlying mechanism might be associated with NF-κB pathway.
Source : Evidence Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
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Efficacy and safety of Xinfeng capsule in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: a multi-center parallel-group double-blind randomized controlled trial
Liu Jiana, , , Wang Yuana, Huang Chuanbinga, Xu Jianhuab, Li Zhijunc, Xu Liangd, He Liyune, Sun Yuea, Wang Yalia, Xu Shengqianb, Zhao Pingc, Mao Tongjund, Tan Bina, Zhu Fubinga, Zhang Pinghenga,Fang Lia
Abstract
Objective
To evaluate the efficacy and safety of Xinfeng capsule in patients suffering rheumatoid arthritis (RA).
Methods
A multi-center parallel-group designed, double-blind, randomized, controlled trial was conducted. Totally 304 RA patients were assigned to two groups: one group was administered Xinfeng capsule (XFC) plus the placebo of leflunomide and the other given leflunomide (LEF) plus the placebo of XFC for twelve weeks. The clinical and laboratory parameters were compared at baseline and fourth, eighth, and twelfth weeks.
Results
After twelve-week treatment, patients in two groups all showed some trend of effectiveness when compared in terms of American Rheumatism Association (ACR) recommended 20%, 50%, 70% improvement criteria, but it was insignificant. The validity in ameliorate modified disease activity score (DAS28) and laboratory indexes as erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), C-reactive protein (CRP), rheumatoid factor (RF) were also found no difference. The score of health assessment questionnaire (HAQ), self-rating anxiety scale (SAS), self-rating depression scale (SDS) and quality of life questionnaire with rheumatoid arthritis (RAQOL) both lower than the first week and the changes showed no difference. However, the score of SDS dropped more in XFC group than in the other. A total of 147 adverse reaction cases were reported, which shows no difference between the two groups. The most common adverse reactions were hepatic impairment, anemia, leukocytopenia, epigastric discomfort and phalacrosis.
Conclusion
XFC demonstrated better improvement in the scores of SDS and compared with those of LEF group.
Source Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine
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Assessment of Antifungal Activity of Bakuchiol on Oral-Associated Candida spp.
Mohd-Al-Faisal Nordin, Fathilah Abdul Razak, and Wan Harun Himratul-Aznita
Abstract
Bakuchiol is an active component of Psoralea glandulosa and Psoralea corylifolia, used in traditional Chinese medicine. The study aimed at investigating the antifungal activity of bakuchiol on planktonic and biofilm forms of orally associated Candida species. The antifungal susceptibility testing was determined by the broth micro dilution technique. Growth kinetics and cell surface hydrophobicity (CSH) of Candida were measured to assess the inhibitory effect of bakuchiol on Candida planktonic cells. Biofilm biomass and cellular metabolic activity were quantitatively estimated by the crystal violet (CV) and the 2,3-bis(2-methoxy-4-nitro-5-sulfophenyl)-5-[(phenylamino)carbonyl]-2H-tetrazolium hydroxide (XTT) assays. All Candida strains have been shown to be susceptible to bakuchiol with the MIC ranges from 12.5 to 100 μg/mL. Significant decrease in specific growth rates and viable counts demonstrates the inhibitory effect of bakuchiol on Candida planktonic cells. A brief exposure to bakuchiol also reduced CSH of Candida (P<0.05), indicating altered surface properties of yeast cells towards hydrophobic interfaces. Biofilm biomass and cell metabolic activity were mostly decreased, except for C. glabrata (P=0.29). The antifungal properties of bakuchiol on Candida species in this in vitro study may give insights into the application in therapeutic strategy against Candida infections.
Source : Journal Evidence Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
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Gastrodin Reduces Blood Pressure by Intervening with RAAS and PPARγ in SHRs
Wei Liu,1 Lingyan Wang,1 Jiahui Yu,1 Patrick Fordjour Asare,1 and Ying-Qiang Zhao2
1Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
2Department of Cardiology, Second Affiliated Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
Abstract
Gastrodin is a bioactive compound extracted from traditional Chinese medicine, Gastrodia elata Bl. It has a definite effect on reducing blood pressure in hypertensive patients. However, the mechanisms of gastrodin in lowering blood pressure still remain unclear. In this study, 4 weeks of administration of gastrodin (100 mg/kg/d intraperitoneally injected) decreased the systolic blood pressure (SBP) in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs) (190.2 + 89 versus 169.8 + 6.4, P<0.01). Among SHRs receiving gastrodin treatment, angiotensin II (Ang II) and aldosterone (ALD) in serum were significantly decreased (2022.1 + 53.0 versus 1528.7 + 93.9, 213.33 + 35.7 versus, 179.65 + 20.31 and P<0.01, P<0.05 , resp.) and dramatically downregulated expression of angiotensin type 1 receptor (AT1R) (4.9 + 0.9, versus 2.6 + 0.9 , P<0.05) in myocardium in both mRNA and protein levels compared with their corresponding groups without gastrodin treatment. Additionally, gastrodin increased the mRNA expression (0.18 + 0.07 versus 0.82 + 0.10, P<0.01) and protein synthesis (0.40 + 0.10 versus 0.34 + 0.10, P<0.01) of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) in myocardium tissues. Overall, our data demonstrated that gastrodin was able to decrease the SBP in SHR. Furthermore, this study showed that gastrodin intervened with the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) and PPARγ effectively, which indicates its antihypertensive mechanism.
Source : Evidence Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
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Effect of Shoushen granule on arterial elasticity in patients with carotid atherosclerosis: a clinical randomized controlled trial
- Shen Dingzhua, , ,
- Xing Sanlia,
- Chen Chuana, , ,
- Shen Ruib,
- Lou Danfeib
Abstract
Objective To investigate the effectiveness of Shoushen granule, Chinese herbal preparation, on carotid artery elasticity in patients with carotid atherosclerosis.
Methods The total of 156 carotid atherosclerosis patients were randomly divided into the intervention group (83 cases, treated with Shoushen granule) and the control group (73 cases, treated with pravastatin). Brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV) and Ankle-Brachial Pressure Index (ABI) were measured by automated arteriosclerosis detector. The changes of common carotid artery intima-media thickness (IMT) and parameters of the carotid artery elasticity in patients, including stiffness parameter (β), pressure-strain elastic modulus (Ep), arterial compliance (Ac), augmentation index (AI), and pulse wave velocity β (PWVβ) were detected by Echo-Tracking (ET) technique before and after 24 week treatment. In the meantime, levels of blood lipid, and liver and renal function were measured respectively.
Results After 24 weeks, baPWV, IMT and parameters of the carotid artery elasticity (β, Ep, AI and PWVβ) were markedly decreased in intervention group compared with those of before treatment (P < 0.01), but the level of Ac was increased significantly (P < 0.01). And there were no significant differences compared with control group on the same period (P > 0.05).
Conclusion In this pilot study, it was demonstrated ET technology and automated arteriosclerosis detector could be used to evaluate carotid artery elasticity effectively, and the action of Shoushen granule on carotid atherosclerosis might be related to the regulation of carotid artery elasticity.
Source : Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine
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Yiguanjian decoction and its ingredients inhibit angiogenesis in carbon tetrachloride-induced cirrhosis mice
Ya-Ning Zhou1†, Yong-Ping Mu1†, Wen-Wei Fu1, Bing-Bing Ning1, Guang-Li Du2, Jia-Mei Chen1, Ming-Yu Sun1, Hua Zhang1, Yi-Yang Hu13, Cheng-Hai Liu13, Lie-Ming Xu1 and Ping Liu13*
Abstract
Cirrhosis is associated with angiogenesis and disruption of hepatic vascular architecture. Yiguanjian (YGJ) decoction, a prescription from traditional Chinese medicine, is widely used for treating liver diseases. We studied whether YGJ or its ingredients (iYGJ) had an anti-angiogenic effect and explored possible mechanisms underlying this process.
MethodsCirrhosis was induced with carbon tetrachloride (CCl 4 ) (ip) in C57BL/6 mice for 6 weeks. From week 4 to week 6, cirrhotic mice were randomly divided into four groups: sorafenib-treated, YGJ-treated and iYGJ-treated mice and placebo. Serum biochemistries, hydroxyproline (Hyp) content and histopathological changes of hepatic tissues were measured as were α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), collagen I, CD31, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), VEGF receptor (VEGFR) 2 and hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)-1α.
ResultsBoth YGJ and iYGJ improved serum biochemistries. Changes of histopathology showed that YGJ and iYGJ reduced hepatic tissue necroinflammatory and collagen fiber deposition in cirrhosis mice. Compared to the CCl 4 treated animals, Hyp, α-SMA, collagen I, CD31, VEGF, VEGFR, and HIF-1α expression decreased in YGJ and iYGJ groups.
ConclusionsYGJ and iYGJ inhibited liver angiogenesis in cirrhotic mice treated with CCl 4 by inhibiting the HIF-1α/VEGF signaling pathway, suggesting that anti-angiogenic effects of YGJ and iYGJ are associated with improving the hepatic hypoxic microenvironment.
Source : BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine
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Soshiho-tang water extract inhibits ovalbumin-induced airway inflammation via the regulation of heme oxygenase-1
Woo-Young Jeon13, Hyeun-Kyoo Shin1, In-Sik Shin2, Sang Kyum Kim3 and Mee-Young Lee1*
Abstract
Background
Soshiho-tang, known as Xio-hai-Hu-Tang in Chinese and Sho-Saiko-to in Japanese, has been widely used as a therapeutic agent. Its pharmacological effects include anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antihepatic fibrosis, antitumor and immunomodulating activities. However, little is known regarding its effects on allergic asthma. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to investigate whether the Soshiho-tang water extract (SSTW) has antiasthmatic effects on airway inflammation in an ovalbumin (OVA)-induced mouse model.
Methods
BALB/c mice were used as a model of asthma after induction by sensitization and challenge with OVA. We measured change in eosinophils, other inflammatory cells, and T helper 2 (Th2)-type cytokines, such as interleukin (IL)-4, IL-5, IL-13, IL-17, IL-33, and chemokine (eotaxin) in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF), presence of total and OVA-specific immunoglobulin (Ig)E in plasma, and expression of mucus production and heme oxygenase (HO)-1 protein in lung tissue.
Results
Our results show that SSTW had a suppressive effect on eosinophil influx into BALF and decreased the levels of Th2-type cytokines. Moreover, SSTW exhibited a marked decrease in mucus hypersecretion, total and OVA-specific IgE levels, and significantly induced HO-1 protein expression.
Conclusions
These results suggest that SSTW may be used as a valuable therapeutic agent for treating various inflammatory diseases including allergic asthma.
Source : BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine
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Effect of Chinese herbal compound Tengmei decotion on IL-17/NF-κB signal pathway in synovium tissue of rat arthritis models induced by type II collage
Abstract
Purpose: To investigate the biological effect of IL-17/NF-κB immune inflammatory pathway on pathological damage in synovium tissue of Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and study in regulation mechanism of Chinese herbal compound Tengmei decotion for IL-17/NF-κB signal pathway.
Methods: To establish collagen II-induced rats arthritis(CIA)models. The successful models of SD rats were randomly divided into model group, positive group, and high-, medium- groups of Chinese medicine, 6 rats in each group. The normal control and model groups were given distilled water (10ml kg-1 d) by gavage. The positive drug group was given leflunomide (1.87g kg-1 d) by gavage. The high and medium dose Chinese medicine groups were given crude medicine of 31.8 g kg-1 d and 15.9 g kg-1 d by gavage. After twelve weeks of treatment intervention, all SD rats were executed, the blood and synovium tissue samples were kept for detecting IL-17, NF-KB P65 mRNA transcription and protein expression by RT-PCR, WESTEN BLOT and ELISA Analysis, and detecting inflammatory infiltration in synovium tissue by Histopathological analysis.
Results: (1)Compared to the normal control group, levels of mRNA transcription and protein expression of IL-17 and NF-κB P65 were significantly up-regulated (P < 0.01) in the model group. Compared to the model group, levels of mRNA transcription and protein expression of IL-17 and NF-κB P65 were significantly down-regulated in the positive and Chinese medicine groups (P < 0.01).(2) Histopathological analysis displayed that mild hyperplasia of epithelial cells covering the articular cartilage synovium, joint cavity narrowing, and mild inflammatory lymphocytes infiltration in model group, with joint lesions improved in treatment groups.
Conclusion: The molecular mechanisms of Chinese herbal Tengmei decotion in inhibiting immune inflammatory pathological damage in synovium of CIA rats models related to its effects on IL-17/NF-κB pathway.
Source : Integrative Medicine Research
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Qing-Yi decoction in participants with severe acute pancreatitis: a randomized controlled trial
Weiwei Chen, Xiaonan Yang, Lei Huang, Ping Xue, Meihua Wan, Jia Guo, Lin Zhu, Tao Jin, Zongwen Huang, Guangyuan Chen, Wenfu Tang and Qing Xia*
Abstract
Background
Qing-Yi Decoction (QYD) has been used for severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) patients in China for many years. There were two kinds of QYD: Num 1. QYD (QYD1) which is used in the acute response stage of SAP and Num 2. QYD (QYD2) which is used in the second stage of SAP. This study aims to evaluate the therapeutic efficacy of QYD in participants with SAP.
Methods
In this prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, participants aged 18–70 years within the first 7 days after acute onset of typical abdominal pain (the definition of SAP was according to the 2007 Guidelines for Management of Severe Acute Pancreatitis in China) were selected. The disease severity was determined by the Ranson, Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II, and Balthazar CT scores. The test group received Western medicine and Chinese medicine (Num.1 QYD and Num.2 QYD), while the control group received Western medicine and placebo. The primary end-points were length of hospital stay, total hospitalization expenses, operation rate, and mortality. The secondary end-points were organ complications (i.e., heart failure, respiratory failure, acute renal failure, and hepatic failure), duration of paralytic ileus, infection, intensive care unit stay, and respirator use.
Results
From March 2008 to July 2010, a total of 300 participants with severe acute pancreatitis were assessed for eligibility in West China Hospital, and 100 were eligible for randomized allocation. Eighty-five participants (46 in the test group; 39 in the control group) were included in the statistical analyses. The two groups were similar in their baseline clinical characteristics (age, sex, and etiology) and disease severity. After the interventions, there were no differences between the two groups for length of hospital stay (P = 0.323), total hospitalization expenses (P = 0.252), operation rate (P = 0.231), mortality (P = 0.462), organ complications (P > 0.05), intensive care unit stay (P = 0.209), and respirator use (P > 0.05). However, the duration [median (interquartile range)] of paralytic ileus, i.e., 4 (2–6) days vs. 6 (4–8) days (P = 0.014) and rate of infection, i.e., (13.0 % vs.35.9 %) (P = 0.013) differed significantly.
Conclusions
QYD could restore gastrointestinal motility to normal and reduce the infection rates in the SAP patients who completed a full course of QYD treatment according to per protocol analysis.
Source : Chinese Medicine Journal
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The Efficacy of Shugan Jianpi Zhixie Therapy for Diarrhea-Predominant Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trials
Ya Xiao , Yanyan Liu , Shaohui Huang , Xiaomin Sun, Yang Tang, Jingru Cheng, Tian Wang, Fei Li, Yuxiang Kuang,
Ren Luo, Xiaoshan Zhao
Abstract
Background Shugan Jianpi Zhixie therapy (SJZT) has been widely used to treat diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome (IBS-D), but the results are still controversial. A meta-analysis of randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials was performed to assess the efficacy and tolerability of SJZT for IBS-D.
MethodsThe MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, the China National Knowledge Infrastructure database, the Chinese Biomedical Literature database and the Wanfang database were searched up to June 2014 with no language restrictions. Summary estimates, including 95% confidence intervals (CI), were calculated for global symptom improvement, abdominal pain improvement, and Symptom Severity Scale (BSS) score.
Results Seven trials (N=954) were included. The overall risk of bias assessment was low. SJZT showed significant improvement for global symptom compared to placebo (RR 1.61; 95% CI 1.24, 2.10;P =0.0004; therapeutic gain = 33.0%; number needed to treat (NNT) = 3.0). SJZT was significantly more likely to reduce overall BSS score (SMD –0.67; 95% CI –0.94, –0.40; P < 0.00001) and improve abdominal pain (RR 4.34; 95% CI 2.64, 7.14; P < 0.00001) than placebo. The adverse events of SJZT were no different from those of placebo.
Conclusions This meta-analysis suggests that SJZT is an effective and safe therapy option for patients with IBS-D. However, due to the high clinical heterogeneity and small sample size of the included trials, further standardized preparation, large-scale and rigorously designed trials are needed.
Source : PLOSone
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Effect of Liuweibuqi capsule, a Chinese patent medicine, on the JAK1/STAT3 pathway and MMP9/TIMP1 in a chronic obstructive pulmonary disease rat model
Wang Chengyang, Li Zegen, Liu Xiangguo, Peng Qinghe, Li Fang, Li Da, Wang Chuanbo
Abstract
Objective
To observe effect of Liuweibuqi Capsule, a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), on the janus kinase (JAK)/signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) pathway and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) in a chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) rat model with lung deficiency in terms of TCM's pattern differentiation.
Methods
Rats were randomly divided into a normal group, model group, Liuweibuqi group, Jinshuibao group, and spleen aminopeptidase group (n= 10). Aside from the normal group, all rats were exposed to smoke plus lipopolysaccharide tracheal instillation to establish the COPD model with lung deficiency. Models were established after 28 days and then the normal and model groups were given normal saline (0.09 g/kg), Liuweibuqi group was given Liuweibuqi capsule (0.35 g/kg), Jinshuibao group was given Jinshuibao capsules (0.495 g/kg), and the spleen group was given spleen aminopeptidase (0.33 mg/kg), once a day for 30 days. Changes in symptoms, signs, and lung histology were observed. Lung function was measured with a spirometer. Serum cytokines were detected using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and changes in the JAK/STAT pathway, MMP-9, and MMPs inhibitor 1 (TIMP1) were detected by immunohistochemistry, RT-PCR, and western blotting, respectively.
Results
Compared with the normal group, lung tissue was damaged, and lung function was reduced in the model control group. Additionally, the levels of interleukin (IL)-1β, γ interferon (IFN-γ), and IL-6 were higher, while IL-4 and IL-10 were lower in the model control group than those in the normal group. The expressions of JAK1, STAT3, p-STAT3, and MMP-9 mRNA and protein in lung tissue were higher, and TIMP1 mRNA and protein was lower in the model group compared with the normal group. After treatment, compared with the model group, the expression of inflammatory cytokines was lower in each treatment group, and expressions of JAK/STAT pathway, MMPs were lower. Compared with the positive control groups, the Jinshuibao and spleen aminopeptidase groups, lung function was better, and JAK1, STAT3, and p-STAT3 protein were lower and TIMP1 was higher in the Liuweibuqi group.
Conclusion
Liuweibuqi capsules can improve the symptoms of COPD possibly by regulating the expression of the JAK1/STAT3 pathway and MMP9/TIMP1.
Source : Journal Traditional Chinese Medicine
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Histone deacetylation of memory T lymphocytes by You-Gui-Wan alleviates allergen-induced eosinophilic airway inflammation in asthma
Hong Ping Zhang12†, Juan Juan Fu2†, Tao Fan2, Wen Bin Zhang3, Zeng Li Wang4, Lei Wang12 and Gang Wang12*
Abstract
Background You-Gui pills (You-Gui-Wan; YGW) can promote T lymphocyte proliferation and differentiation, and restore Th1/Th2 balance in the treatment of asthma, but their mechanism of action is not fully known. This study aims to explore whether YGW can induce histone deacetylation or acetylation in memory T lymphocytes (Tm) for improvement of airway inflammation in asthma.
Methods CD4+CD45RBlow cells, as Tm, were obtained by magnetic-activated cell sorting and flow cytometry from the spleens of BALB/c mice with ovalbumin (OVA)-induced asthma. Tm were cocultured with hydrocortisone (CORT; 1000 nM), serum containing low (0.225 g/kg), moderate (0.9 g/kg), or high (3.6 g/kg) doses of YGW, or medium only, and then adoptively transferred into naïve mice (n = 5 per group). Recipient mice were challenged with aerosolized OVA. The levels of IL-4, IL-5, IL-13, and IFN-γ in culture supernatants and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) from the OVA-challenged mice were measured by ELISA. Histone deacetylase (HDAC) and histone acetyltransferase (HAT) activities and protein expressions of T-bet, GATA-3, and HDAC1–11 in lung tissue were measured by western blotting analyses. The alveolar eosinophilic inflammation index (AEII) was evaluated in the lungs of adoptive transfer recipient mice.
Results YGW reduced inflammation and eosinophil infiltration into the lung tissues as evidenced by histology, with similar effects to those of CORT. High-, moderate-, and low-YGW increased HDAC (P < 0.0001, P = 0.0009 and P = 0.0253 respectively) and decreased HAT (P = 0.0001, P = 0.0000 and P = 0.0039, respectively) activities in dose-dependent manners in the lung tissues of adoptive transfer recipient mice. Increased histone deacetylation of Tm by YGW reduced the AEII by reducing GATA-3 (P = 0.014),IL-4 (P = 0.0004), IL-5 (P = 0.0067), and IL-13 (P = 0.0002), and inducing IFN-γ release (P = 0.0375). Moreover, YGW reduced inflammatory cytokines such as IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13 by upregulating the activities of HDAC7 (P = 0.003)/10 (P = 0.003), HDAC11 (P < 0.0001), and HDAC9–11 (P < 0.0001, P < 0.0001 and P < 0.0001, respectively), respectively, and increased IFN-γ release by increasing HDAC9 (P < 0.0001).
Conclusions Histone deacetylation of Tm was observed during alleviation of allergen-induced eosinophilic airway inflammation in asthma by YGW.
Source : Journal Chinese Medicine
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Effect of GuiXiong Xiaoyi Wan in Treatment of Endometriosis on Rats
Zhixing Jin, 1 Li Wang, 2 and Zhiling Zhu 2 , *
Abstract
Objective. To evaluate the effect of GuiXiong Xiaoyi Wan (GXXYW) on the development of endometriosis in a rat model. Methods. Sprague-Dawley rats with surgically induced endometriosis were randomly treated with low-dose GXXYW, high-dose GXXYW, or vehicle (negative control) for 28 days. Immunohistochemistry was used to assess cell proliferation in the lesions. The terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase- (TdT-) mediated dUTP biotin nick end labelling (TUNEL) method was performed to analyse the apoptosis induced by GuiXiong Xiaoyi Wan. The percentages of CD3+ lymphocytes, CD4+ lymphocytes, and CD8+ lymphocytes in the spleens of the rats were evaluated using flow cytometric analysis.
Results. Treatment with GXXYW significantly decreased the lesion size, inhibited cell proliferation, and induced apoptosis in endometriotic tissue. The spleens of GXXYW-treated rats also demonstrated a significant increase in the percentage of CD4+ lymphocytes and a significant decrease in the percentage of CD8+ lymphocytes.
Conclusions. These results suggest that, in a rat model, GXXYW may be effective in the suppression of the growth of endometriosis, possibly through the inhibition of cell proliferation, the induction of apoptosis of endometriotic cells, and the regulation of the immune system.
Source : eCAM
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Effects of Chaiyuwendan decoction on endocannabinoids levels in adipose tissue of rats with chronic stress-induced depression
Shaodong Chen, Manting Lin, Xiao Zhao, Fan Lu, Yujie Wang, Shulei Li, Bin Yan, Haihong Zhou aa Shaodong Chen, Manting Lin, Xiao Zhao, Fan Lu, Yujie Wang, Shulei Li, Bin Yan, Haihong Zhou,
Traditional Chinese Medicine Department, Medical College of Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, China
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To investigate how Chaiyuwendan decoction (CWD) affects endocannabinoid levels in the adipose tissue of depressed rats.
METHODS: Twenty-four male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into four groups with six rats in each. One group was randomly selected as the control group. The remaining three groups were subjected to chronic stress to induce depression. Groups were randomly assigned as a model group, CWD group, and amitriptyline group. CWD was given to the CWD group once a day from the second day of modeling. The amitriptyline group was administered amitriptyline intragastrically (10 mg/kg) once a day. After treatment for 21 days, body weight and fat weight were measured and the levels of N-arachidonoylethanolamine (AEA), 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), and N-palmitoylethanolamine (PEA) in adipose tissue were determined with liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry.
RESULTS: Compared with the control group, body weight, fat weight, AEA, and PEA were significantly lower, and 2-AG was higher, in the model group (P< 0.05, P<0.01). Compared with the model group, body weight, fat weight, the AEA, and PEA levels were significantly higher, and 2-AG level was significantly lower in the CWD group (P<0.05). However, the levels did not differ significantly between the CWD group and the amitriptyline group.
CONCLUSION: CWD could regulate the levels of AEA, 2-AG, and PEA in rats with depression induced by chronic stress.
Source : Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine
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Rapid Antidepressant Activity of Ethanol Extract of Gardenia jasminoides Ellis Is Associated with Upregulation of BDNF Expression in the Hippocampus
Hailou Zhang,1,2 Wenda Xue,1,2 Runjie Wu,1,2 Tong Gong,1,2 Weiwei Tao,1,2 Xin Zhou,1,2 Jingjing Jiang,1,2 Ying Zhang,1,2 Nan Zhang,1,2 Yi Cui,1,2 Chang Chen,3 and Gang Chen1,2
1Center for Translational Systems Biology and Neuroscience, School of Basic Biomedical Science, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
2Laboratory of Integrative Biomedicine of Brain Diseases, School of Basic Biomedical Science, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
3First Clinical Medical College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
Abstract
Ethanol extract of Yueju pill, a Traditional Chinese Medicine herbal formula widely used to treat mood disorders, demonstrates rapid antidepressant effects similar to ketamine, likely via instant enhancement of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) expression in the hippocampus. Here we investigated ethanol extracts of the constituent herbs of Yueju responsible for rapid antidepressant effects. Screening with tail suspension test in Kunming mice at 24 hours after a single administration of five individual constituent herbs of Yueju, we found that only Gardenia jasminoides Ellis (GJ) showed a significant effect. The antidepressant response started at 2 hours after GJ administration. Similar to Yueju and ketamine, a single administration of GJ significantly reduced the number of escape failures in the learned helplessness test. Furthermore, GJ decreased latency of food consumption in the novelty suppressed-feeding test. Additionally, starting from 2 hours and continuing for over 20 hours after GJ administration, BDNF expression in the hippocampus was upregulated, temporally linked with the antidepressant response. These findings suggest that GJ has rapid antidepressant effects, which are associated with the elevated expression of BDNF in the hippocampus. In Yueju formula, Yue represents GJ, as thus our study demonstrates the primary role of GJ in rapid antidepressant efficacy of Yueju.
Source : Evidence Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
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Evaluation of a Topical Herbal Agent for the Promotion of Bone Healing
Wing-Sum Siu,1,2,3 Chun-Hay Ko,1,2 Ka-Wing Lam,4 Elaine Wat,1,2 Wai-Ting Shum,1,2 Clara Bik-San Lau,1,2 Kam-Ming Ko,5 Leung-Kim Hung,3 David Tai-Wai Lau,1,5 and Ping-Chung Leung1,2,3
Abstract
A topically used Chinese herbal paste, namely, CDNR, was designed to facilitate fracture healing which is usually not addressed in general hospital care. From our in vitro studies, CDNR significantly inhibited the release of nitric oxide from RAW264.7 cells by 51 to 77%. This indicated its anti-inflammatory effect. CDNR also promoted the growth of bone cells by stimulating the proliferation of UMR106 cells up to 18%. It also increased the biomechanical strength of the healing bone in a drill-hole defect rat model by 16.5% significantly. This result revealed its in vivo efficacy on facilitation of bone healing. Furthermore, the detection of the chemical markers of CDNR in the skin and muscle of the treatment area demonstrated its transdermal properties. However, CDNR did not affect the bone turnover markers in serum of the rats. With its anti-inflammatory and bone formation properties, CDNR is found effective in promoting bone healing.
.....A herbal paste for topical use (CDNR) was thus created with four herbs, namely, Carthami Flos (C), Dipsaci Radix (D), Notoginseng Rhizoma (N), and Rhei Rhizoma (R).
Source : Evidence Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
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Identifying Chinese Herbal Medicine Network for Eczema: Implications from a Nationwide Prescription Database
Hsing-Yu Chen,1,2,3 Yi-Hsuan Lin,1,2,3,4 Sindy Hu,2,4,5 Sien-hung Yang,1,3 Jiun-liang Chen,1,3 and Yu-Chun Chen6,7
1Division of Chinese Internal Medicine, Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan 33378, Taiwan
2Graduate Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 33302, Taiwan
3School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 33302, Taiwan
4Department of Cosmetic Science, Chang Gung University of Science and Technology, Taoyuan 33302, Taiwan
5Department of Dermatology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan 33378, Taiwan
6Department of Medical Research and Education, National Yang-Ming University Hospital, Ilan 26042, Taiwan
7Institute of Hospital and Health Care Administration, School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei 112, Taiwan
Abstract
Eczema is a highly prevalent dermatological disease that can severely affect the patient’s quality of life. Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) is commonly used in combination for eczema due to the complicated pathogenesis. This study aimed to identify a CHM network for the treatment of eczema by using a nationwide database. During 2011, 381,282 CHM prescriptions made for eczema (ICD-9-CM 692.x) were obtained from the National Health Insurance Research Database (NHIRD) in Taiwan and analyzed by using association rule mining and social network analysis. Among 661 available CHMs, 44 important combinations were identified. Among the CHM networks, seven clusters with the predominant traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) pattern were recognized. The largest CHM cluster was used to treat the wind-dampness-heat pattern, and Xiao-Feng-San (24.1% of all prescriptions) was the core of this cluster with anti-inflammation, antioxidation, and antiallergic effects. Lonicera japonica (11.0% of all prescriptions) with Forsythia suspense (17.0% of all prescriptions) was the most commonly used CHM combination and was also the core treatment for treating the heat pattern, in which an antimicrobial effect is found. CHM network analysis is helpful for TCM doctors or researchers to choose candidates for clinical practice or further studies.
Source : eCAM
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Huperzine A for Alzheimer’s Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials
- Guoyan Yang
- Yuyi Wang
- Jinzhou Tian
- Jian-Ping Liu
Abstract
Background
Huperzine A is a Chinese herb extract used for Alzheimer’s disease. We conducted this review to evaluate the beneficial and harmful effect of Huperzine A for treatment of Alzheimer’s disease.
Methods
We searched for randomized clinical trials (RCTs) of Huperzine A for Alzheimer’s disease in PubMed, Cochrane Library, and four major Chinese electronic databases from their inception to June 2013. We performed meta-analyses using RevMan 5.1 software. (Protocol ID: CRD42012003249)
Results
20 RCTs including 1823 participants were included. The methodological quality of most included trials had a high risk of bias. Compared with placebo, Huperzine A showed a significant beneficial effect on the improvement of cognitive function as measured by Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) at 8 weeks, 12 weeks and 16 weeks, and by Hastgawa Dementia Scale (HDS) and Wechsler Memory Scale (WMS) at 8 weeks and 12 weeks. Activities of daily living favored Huperzine A as measured by Activities of Daily Living Scale (ADL) at 6 weeks, 12 weeks and 16 weeks. One trial found Huperzine A improved global clinical assessment as measured by Clinical Dementia Rating Scale (CDR). One trial demonstrated no significant change in cognitive function as measured by Alzheimer’s disease Assessment Scale-Cognitive Subscale (ADAS-Cog) and activity of daily living as measured by Alzheimer’s disease Cooperative Study Activities of Daily Living Inventory (ADCS-ADL) in Huperzine A group. Trials comparing Huperzine A with no treatment, psychotherapy and conventional medicine demonstrated similar findings. No trial evaluated quality of life. No trial reported severe adverse events of Huperzine A.
Conclusions
Huperzine A appears to have beneficial effects on improvement of cognitive function, daily living activity, and global clinical assessment in participants with Alzheimer’s disease. However, the findings should be interpreted with caution due to the poor methodological quality of the included trials.
Source : PLOS On
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Effect of the herbal drug guilu erxian jiao on muscle strength, articular pain, and disability in elderly men with knee osteoarthritis.
Tsai CC1, Chou YY2, Chen YM3, Tang YJ4, Ho HC5, Chen DY6.
Abstract
Background. Guilu Erxian Jiao (GEJ) is a widely used Chinese herbal remedy for knee osteoarthritis, but its clinical efficacy is unknown.
Methods. We enrolled 42 elderly male patients with knee OA, including 21 patients who received the herbal drug GEJ as the case group and 21 patients who did not receive GEJ as the control group. The effects of 12 weeks of GEJ treatment on muscle strength of lower limbs were measured by a Biodex dynamometer, with disability evaluated on the Lequesne index and articular pain measured on the visual analog scale (VAS) between the two groups on the baseline and after treatment.
Results. There were significant increases in the levels of muscle strength of TQ/BW-ext-dominant and TQ/BW-flex-dominant between the two groups after treatment (P < 0.05). There were also significant increases in muscle strength of knee extensor muscles in the GEJ-treated group (n = 21) self-controlled before and after 12 weeks of treatment (all P < 0.01). There were significant decreases in articular pain (P < 0.01) and Lequesne index scores (P < 0.01) in the GEJ-treated group when compared to the non-GEJ-treated group.
Conclusions. Our results showed that GEJ is effective and is tolerated well in elderly men with knee OA.
Source : Journal Evidence Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
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A metabonomic study of cardioprotection of ginsenosides, schizandrin, and ophiopogonin D against acute myocardial infarction in rats
Miaomiao Jiang1, Liyuan Kang1, Yi Wang2, Xiaoping Zhao3, Xuan Liu1, Lei Xu1 and Zheng Li1*
Abstract
Background Metabonomics is a useful tool for studying mechanisms of drug treatment using systematic metabolite profiles. Ginsenosides Rg1 and Rb1, ophiopogonin D, and schizandrin are the main bioactive components of a traditional Chinese formula (Sheng-Mai San) widely used for the treatment of coronary heart disease. It remains unknown the effect of individual bioactive component and how the multi-components in combination affect the treating acute myocardial infarction (AMI).
Methods Rats were divided into 7 groups and dosed consecutively for 7 days with mono and combined-therapy administrations. Serum samples were analyzed by proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR) spectroscopy. Partial least squares discriminate analysis (PLS-DA) was employed to distinguish the metabolic profile of rats in different groups and identify potential biomarkers.
Results Score plots of PLS-DA exhibited that combined-therapy groups were significantly different from AMI group, whereas no differences were observed for mono-therapy groups. We found that AMI caused comprehensive metabolic changes involving stimulation of glycolysis, suppression of fatty acid oxidation, together with disturbed metabolism of arachidonic acid, linoleate, leukotriene, glycerophospholipid, phosphatidylinositol phosphate, and some amino acids. β-hydroxybutyrate, cholines and glucose were regulated by mono-therapy of schizandrin and ginsenosides respectively. Besides these metabolites, combined-therapy ameliorated more of the AMI-induced metabolic changes including glycerol, and O-acetyl glycoprotein. A remarkable reduction of lactate suggested the therapeutic effect of combined-therapy through improving myocardial energy metabolism.
Conclusions This study provided novel metabonomic insights on the mechanism of synergistic cardioprotection of combined-therapy with ginsenosides, schizandrin, and ophiopogonin D, and demonstrated the potential of discovering new drugs by combining bioactive components from traditional Chinese formula.
Source : BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine
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The impact of the herbal formula Qing Bao Zhu Yu Tang in the treatment of endometriosis
Elizabeth Ohm, L. Ac., DAOM (deceased), Lawrence J. Ryan*
ABSTRACT
Retrospective chart review research method was employed to analyze data from 120 cases of women who were treated for endometriosis using an herbal formulation known as Qing Bao Zhu Yu Tang. The cases were analyzed in three categories as per the most common condition accompanying endometriosis. The three groups included those where endometriosis was associated with infertility (n=53), those with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) (n=7) and those with ovarian cysts (n=38). Data from the charts were analyzed in terms of the impact of the Qing Bao Zhu Yu Tang formula on endometriosis and the accompanying conditions. The results evidenced the positive impact of the formula. The pain effectiveness level survey rating for the entire sample of 120 patient charts shows that 116 patients (96.7% responded with indication of some level of effectiveness. From the total sample of 120 patients, the satisfaction survey shows that 111 patients (92/5%) responded in the “satisfied” range. The results were discussed regarding implications for practice, and recommendations were made for future related research.
Conclusion
As indicated by the data generated in the current study it is observed that the Qing Bao Zhu Yu Tang formula is effective in the treatment of endometriosis. It is also effective in the treatment of infertility, PCOS and ovarian cysts, vaginal discharges. Consistent with the findings of the current study, TCM practitioners who treat ob-gyn cases should consider using the Qing Bao Zhu Yu Tan formula.
Source : Intl Journal of Herbal Medicine
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The Usefulness of Xuefu Zhuyu Tang for Patients with Angina Pectoris: A Meta-Analysis and Systematic Review
Guo-zhong Yi,1 Yu-qin Qiu,2 Ya Xiao,2,3 and Li-xia Yuan2
1The First College of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515, China
2College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515, China
3Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515, China
Abstract
Objective. To evaluate the efficacy of Xuefu Zhuyu Tang (XFZYT) for treating angina pectoris (AP). Methods. Six databases were searched (up to December, 2013). Eligible randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating the efficiency of XFZYT plus traditional antianginal medications (TAMs) compared with TAMs alone in patients with AP were included. The outcomes were relief of anginal symptoms (RAS) and improvement of electrocardiogram (ECG) and blood high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) level. Result. Finally 14 RCTs were included. There were evidences that XFZYT combined with TAMs was more effective in improving RAS (RR = 1.29; 95% CI = [1.20, 1.38]), ECG (RR = 1.37; 95% CI = [1.22, 1.54]), and blood HDL-C level (MD = 0.29 mmol/L; 95% CI = [0.23, 0.35]) compared with TAMs alone. Our meta-analysis also showed the pooled number needed to treat (NNT) of the group with stable angina pectoris (SAP) was smaller in improving RAS (4.2 versus 5.7) and ECG (3.1 versus 5.5) compared with the group with both SAP and unstable angina pectoris (UAP). Conclusion. Combination therapy with XFZYT and TAMs is more effective in treating AP compared with TAMs alone. And XFZYT may be a more suitable choice for the treatment of SAP. However, the findings should be interpreted with caution due to the mediocre methodological quality of the included RCTs.
Source : Evidence Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine Journal
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Bian Zheng Lun Zhi as a Complementary and Alternative Treatment for Menstrual Cramps in Women with Dysmenorrhea: A Prospective Clinical Observation
Pin-Yi Lin,1 Yueh-Ting Tsai,1 Jung-Nien Lai,1,2 Chia-Hao Yeh,3 and Ruei-Chi Fang1
1Institute of Traditional Medicine, School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, No. 155, Section 2, Linong Road, Taipei City 112, Taiwan
2Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Taipei City Hospital, Yangming Branch, Taipei City 111, Taiwan
3Department of Chinese Medicine, Taipei City Hospital, Yangming Branch, Taipei City 111, Taiwan
Abstract
Background. Limited scientific evidence supports the positive effects of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for treating dysmenorrhea. Thus, an observation period of 3 months could verify the ancient indication that TCM treatments effectively alleviate menstrual cramps in women with primary dysmenorrhea or endometriosis.
Methods. A prospective, nonrandomized study (primary dysmenorrhea and endometriosis groups) was conducted in women with dysmenorrhea for more than three consecutive menstrual cycles. All patients received TCM prescriptions based on bian zheng lun zhi theory 14 days before menstruation for a period of 12 weeks. Pain intensity was evaluated using a 10-cm visual analogue scale and two validated questionnaires (the Menstrual Distress Questionnaire and the World Health Organization Quality of Life questionnaire).
Results. Of the initial 70 intent-to-treat participants, the women with dysmenorrhea reported significant alleviation of cramps during menstruation after the 12-week TCM treatment. Mixed model analysis revealed that TCM prescriptions were more effective in alleviating fatigue, hot flashes, dizziness, painful breasts, excitement, and irritability in the primary dysmenorrhea group (n=36) than in the endometriosis group (n=34).
Conclusion. TCM prescriptions based on syndrome differentiation theory might be a potentially viable choice for treating painful menstruation and premenstrual symptoms after ruling out endometriosis.
Source Journal Evidence Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
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Effects of Chinese Formula Jueyin Granules on Psoriasis in an Animal Model
Tian Ma,1 Wen-cheng Jiang,1 Xin Li,1 Jie Chen,1 Tie-jun Wu,2 Hua Nian,2 Rong Xu,1 Qian-yuan Huang,2 Qing-qing Xiao,1 Qiang Jian,1 Fu-lun Li,1 and Bin Li1
1Department of Dermatology, Yueyang Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 110 Ganhe Road, Shanghai 200437, China
2Department of Pharmacy, Yueyang Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200437, China
Abstract
Although Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is known to be effective for psoriasis patients, the responsible mechanisms still remain poorly understood. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the effect of one formula, named Jueyin granules (JYG) in the mouse model of the vaginal epithelium and tail epidermis. Additionally, we also determined the anti-inflammatory effects of JYG in an imiquimod- (IMQ-) induced psoriasis-like skin mouse model. Our results show that JYG can attenuate the IMQ-induced psoriasis-like inflammation, accompanied with increased epidermal hyperplasia. We also measured estrogenic stage mitosis of vaginal epithelial cells and the formation of granular cell layers in male mouse tails per 100 scales, as well as the tissue nitric oxide (NO) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels using the ELISA method. The results suggest that JYG significantly inhibited mitosis in mouse vaginal epithelial cells, promoted the formation of the squamous epidermal granular layer in mice tails, and reduced the levels of NO and MDA in an imiquimod-induced psoriasis-like skin mouse model after 14 d (P<0.05) These results demonstrate that JYG might be an effective clinical treatment for psoriasis and the effects may be related to inhibited keratinocytes proliferation, improved parakeratotic epidermal cells, and reduced expression of NO and MDA.
Source : Evidence Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
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Protective Effect of Ligustrazine on Lumbar Intervertebral Disc Degeneration of Rats Induced by Prolonged Upright Posture
Qian-Qian Liang,1,2 Dao-Fang Ding,1,2 Zhi-Jie Xi,1,2 Yan Chen,1,2 Chen-Guang Li,1,2 Shu-Fen Liu,1,2 Sheng Lu,1,2 Yong-Jian Zhao,1,2 Qi Shi,1,2 and Yong-Jun Wang1,2
1Institute of Spine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 725 Wan-Ping South Road, Shanghai 200032, China
2Department of Orthopaedics & Traumatology, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, Chin
Abstract
Most chronic low back pain is the result of degeneration of the lumbar intervertebral disc. Ligustrazine, an alkaloid from Chuanxiong, reportedly is able to relieve pain, suppress inflammation, and treat osteoarthritis and it has the protective effect on cartilage and chondrocytes. Therefore, we asked whether ligustrazine could reduce intervertebral disc degeneration. To determine the effect of ligustrazine on disc degeneration, we applied a rat model. The intervertebral disc degeneration of the rats was induced by prolonged upright posture. We found that pretreatment with ligustrazine for 1 month recovered the structural distortion of the degenerative disc; inhibited the expression of type X collagen, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-13, and MMP3; upregulated type II collagen; and decreased IL-1β, cyclooxygenase (COX)-2, and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) expression. In conclusion, ligustrazine is a promising agent for treating lumbar intervertebral disc degeneration disease.
Source : Evidence Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
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Nephro-protective effect of Kangqianling decoction on chronic renal failure rats.
He L1, Shen P, Fu Q, Li J, Dan M, Wang X, Jia W.Author information
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Kangqianling decoction (KQL), the modified formulation of a classical Chinese prescription named Taohongsiwu decoction, was clinically employed to treat renal fibrosis in chronic renal failure.
AIM OF THE STUDY: The present study was designed to examine whether KQL has a protective effect on renal function in association with transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta), angiotensin II (Ang II), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-kappaB) in rats with 5/6 renal ablation (Nx)-induced chronic renal failure.
RESULTS: In renal function deterioration progression, the high expression of serum creatinine (Scr), 24-h urine protein and systolic blood pressure were markedly (P<0.05 or P<0.01) restored by KQL, respectively, at 4 and 8 weeks. The increasing expressions of renal Ang II (P<0.05), angiotensin II1-receptor (AT1R) (P<0.05), TNF-alpha (P<0.05), NF-kappaB (P<0.001) and urine TGF-beta1 (P<0.05) were reduced by the treatment of KQL. Immunohistochemical study further confirmed the nephro-protective activity of KQL as compared to the control and Sham group.
CONCLUSIONS: The results indicate that KQL is able to protect renal function via ameliorating experimental rat renal failure as found in these renal functional parameters.
Source : Journal Ethnopharmacol.
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Protective Effects of Bu-Shen-Huo-Xue Formula against 5/6 Nephrectomy-Induced Chronic Renal Failure in Rats
Jian-Rao Lu,1 Hai-Yan Han,1 Jie Chen,1 Chong-Xiang Xiong,1 Xin-Hua Wang,1 Jing Hu,1 Xiu-Feng Chen,1 and Li Ma2
1Division of Nephrology, Shanghai Seventh People’s Hospital, Shanghai 200137, China
2School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
Abstract
Chronic renal failure (CRF) is a serious disease related to increasing incidence and prevalence as well as decline in quality of life. Bu-Shen-Huo-Xue formula (BSHX), one of traditional herbal formulations, has been clinically employed to treat CRF for decades, but the mechanisms involved have not been investigated. In the present study, we investigated the effects of BSHX on some closely related parameters in 5/6 nephrectomy CRF rats. Rats with CRF were divided into five groups, namely, one control group, one enalapril group, and three BSHX treatment groups (0.25, 0.5, and 1 g/kg d). The rats subjected to sham operation were used as a normal control. After eight weeks of treatment, BSHX significantly decreased the levels of Scr and BUN, downregulated the mRNA expression levels of TGF- B1, CTGF, NF- KB, TNF- a , and OPN, upregulated the mRNA expression of PPARy , and reduced in situ expression of fibronectin and laminins. Histological findings also showed significant amelioration of the damaged renal tissue. BSHX protects 5/6 nephrectomy rats against chronic renal failure probably via regulating the expression of TNF- a, NF-KB, TGF- B1, CTGF, PPARy , OPN, fibronectin, and laminins and is useful for therapy of CRF.
Source : Evidence Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
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Effects of Chinese Medicine Tong xinluo on Diabetic Nephropathy via Inhibiting TGF-β1-Induced Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition
Na Zhang,1 Yanbin Gao,1 Dawei Zou,1 Jinyang Wang,1 Jiaoyang Li,1 Shengnan Zhou,1 Zhiyao Zhu,1 Xuan Zhao,1 Liping Xu,1 and Haiyan Zhang2
1School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Capital Medical University, No. 10, Youanmenwai, Xitoutiao, Fengtai District, Beijing 100069, China
2Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical Science, Capital Medical University, No. 10, Youanmenwai, Xitoutiao, Fengtai District, Beijing 100069, China
Abstract
Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is a major cause of chronic kidney failure and characterized by interstitial and glomeruli fibrosis. Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) plays an important role in the pathogenesis of DN. Tong xinluo (TXL), a Chinese herbal compound, has been used in China with established therapeutic efficacy in patients with DN. To investigate the molecular mechanism of TXL improving DN, KK-Ay mice were selected as models for the evaluation of pathogenesis and treatment in DN. In vitro, TGF-β1 was used to induce EMT. Western blot (WB), immunofluorescence staining, and real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) were applied to detect the changes of EMT markers in vivo and in vitro, respectively. Results showed the expressions of TGF-β1 and its downstream proteins smad3/p-smad3 were greatly reduced in TXL group; meantime, TXL restored the expression of smad7. As a result, the expressions of collagen IV (Col IV) and fibronectin (FN) were significantly decreased in TXL group. In vivo, 24 h-UAER (24-hour urine albumin excretion ratio) and BUN (blood urea nitrogen) were decreased and Ccr (creatinine clearance ratio) was increased in TXL group compared with DN group. In summary, the present study demonstrates that TXL successfully inhibits TGF-β1-induced epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition in DN, which may account for the therapeutic efficacy in TXL-mediated renoprotection.
Source : Evidence Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
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Neuroprotective Effects of Jitai Tablet, a Traditional Chinese Medicine, on the MPTP-Induced Acute Model of Parkinson’s Disease: Involvement of the Dopamine System
Jia Liu,1 Jinlong Gao,1 Shaoang Tu,1 Shasha Xu,1 Ying Liu,1 Weihu Shang,1 Chenxin Gu,1 Yiyun Huang,2 and Mei Han1,3
1College of Chemistry, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China
2Yale PET Center, Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
3Key Laboratory of Radiopharmaceuticals, Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China
Abstract
Jitai tablet (JTT) is a traditional Chinese medicine used to treat neuropsychiatric disorders. We previously demonstrated that JTT treatment led to increased level of dopamine transporter (DAT) in the striatum, thus indicating that JTT might have therapeutic potential for Parkinson’s disease (PD), which is characterized by dysregulated dopamine (DA) transmission and decreased striatal DAT expression. The aim of this study was to investigate the neuroprotective effect of JTT on MPTP-induced PD mice. Using locomotor activity test and rotarod test, we evaluated the effects of JTT (0.50, 0.15, or 0.05 g/kg) on MPTP-induced behavioral impairments. Tyrosine hydroxylase TH-positive neurons in the substantia nigra and DAT and dopamine D2 receptor (D2R) levels in the striatum were detected by immunohistochemical staining and/or autoradiography. Levels of DA and its metabolites were determined by HPLC. In MPTP-treated mice, behavioral impairments were alleviated by JTT treatment. Moreover, JTT protected against impairment of TH-positive neurons and attenuated the MPTP-induced decreases in DAT and D2R. Finally, high dose of JTT (0.50 g/kg) inhibited the MPTP-induced increase in DA metabolism rate. Taken together, results from our present study provide evidence that JTT offers neuroprotective effects against the neurotoxicity of MPTP and thus might be a potential treatment for PD.
Source : Journal Evidence Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine,
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Chinese herbal formula Qi-Lian-Gui-Shou Tang protects against acute ischemic cerebral injury in rats
Juexian Song,, Haiping Zhao, Ping Liu, Ning Li, Liyuan Huang, Pingping Wang, Li Gao, Yumin Luo
Abstract
Introduction
Qi-Lian-Gui-Shou Tang (QLGST) is a Chinese herb formula composed of Astragalus mongholicus, Coptis chinensiss, Radix Angelicae Sinensis, and Radix Polygoni Multiflori, and is normally used for treatment of patients with acute cerebral ischemic injury in Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, China. This study explores the efficacy and underlying mechanism of QLGST in a rat model with acute ischemic stroke.
Methods
Male Sprague-Dawley rats (n=95) were subjected to sham operation or middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) for 2h to induce ischemia followed by 72h reperfusion with or without administration of QLGST. QLGST at low (19.58g/kg), moderate (39.16g/kg) and high dosage (78.32g/kg) (N=19 each group) was administrated by gavage starting 30min after reperfusion, twice a day for 3 days. Behavioral deficit was tested after 72h reperfusion, followed by infarct volume and cell apoptosis, detected by TTC and TUNEL staining, respectively. The expression of activated proteins in Akt/GSK3β pathway was assessed by western blot and immunofluorescence staining.
Results
QLGST at all three dosages decreased neurological functional impairment, but the infarct volume was only significantly decreased by QLGST at the moderate dosage (clinic equivalent dose) compared to MCAO model without treatment. Furthermore, QLGST at moderate dosage inhibited neuronal apoptosis and increased the activation of Akt/GSK3β pathway as compared to MCAO model without treatment.
Conclusion
Our results exhibited the neuroprotective effect of Chinese herb formula QLGST on acute ischemic brain injury in a rat model. We suggest this effect might be mediated by activation of the protective signaling Akt/GSK3β pathway.
Source : EU Journal of Integrative Medicine
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Can Chinese Herbal Medicine Improve Outcomes of In Vitro Fertilization? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
- Huijuan Cao,
- Mei Han,
- Ernest H. Y. Ng,
- Xiaoke Wu,
- Andrew Flower,
- George Lewith,
- Jian-Ping Liu
Abstract
Background A large number of infertile couples are choosing Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) as an adjuvant therapy to improve their success when undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF). There is no systematic review to evaluate the impact of CHM on the IVF outcomes.
Objective To evaluate the effectiveness of CHM with concurrent IVF versus IVF alone on the outcomes of IVF and its safety.
Methods The protocol of this study is registered at PROSPERO. Eligible RCTs searched from 8 databases which compared a combination of CHM and IVF with IVF alone were included. Two authors independently selected studies, extracted data and assessed methodological quality. Meta-analysis of RCTs was conducted if there was non-significant heterogeneity (evaluated by I2 test) among trials. All statistical analysis was performed using RevMan 5.1 software.
Results Twenty trials involving 1721 women were included in the meta-analysis. Three trials were evaluated as having an unclear risk of bias. The remaining trials were evaluated as having a high risk of bias. Combination of CHM and IVF significantly increases clinical pregnancy rates (OR 2.04, 95%CI 1.67 to 2.49, p<0.00001) and ongoing pregnancy rates (OR 1.91, 95%CI 1.17 to 3.10, p = 0.009). Use of CHM after embryo transfer had no better outcome in reducing the rate of ovarian hyper stimulation syndrome (OR 0.39, 95%CI 0.14 to 1.11, p = 0.08).
Conclusions This meta-analysis showed that combination of IVF and CHM used in the included trials improve IVF success, however due to the high risk of bias observed with the trials, the significant differences found with the meta-analysis are unlikely to be accurate. No conclusion could be drawn with respect to the reproductive toxicity of CHM. Further large randomized placebo controlled trials are warranted to confirm these findings before recommending women to take CHM to improve their IVF success.
Source : PLOS One
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A Review of Potential Harmful Interactions between Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Agents and Chinese Herbal Medicines
- Hsin-Hui Tsai,
- Hsiang-Wen Lin mail,
- Ying-Hung Lu,
- Yi-Ling Chen,
- Gail B. Mahady
Abstract
Background
The risks attributed to drug-herb interactions, even when known, are often ignored or underestimated, especially for those involving anti-clotting drugs and Chinese medicines. The aim of this study was to structurally search and evaluate the existing evidence-based data associated with potential drug interactions between anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs and Chinese herbal medicines (CHMs) and evaluate the documented mechanisms, consequences, and/or severity of interactions.
Methodology and Findings
Information related to anticoagulant/antiplatelet drug-CHM interactions was retrieved from eight interaction-based textbooks, four web resources and available primary biomedical literature. The primary literature searches were conducted in English and/or Chinese from January 2000 through December 2011 using the secondary databases (e.g., PubMed, Airiti Library, China Journal full-text database). The search terms included the corresponding medical subject headings and key words. Herbs or natural products not used as a single entity CHM or in Chinese Medicinal Prescriptions were excluded from further review. The corresponding mechanisms and severity ratings of interactions were retrieved using MicroMedex®, Lexicomp® and Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database®. Finally, we found 90 single entity CHMs contributed to 306 documented drug-CHM interactions. A total of 194 (63.4%) interactions were verified for its evidence describing possible mechanisms and severity. Of them, 155 interactions (79.9%) were attributable to pharmacodynamic interactions, and almost all were rated as moderate to severe interactions. The major consequences of these interactions were increased bleeding risks due to the additive anticoagulant or antiplatelet effects of the CHMs, specifically danshen, dong quai, ginger, ginkgo, licorice, and turmeric.
Conclusions/Significance
Conventional anticoagulants and antiplatelet drugs were documented to have harmful interactions with some commonly used single entity CHMs. For those patients who are taking conventional anti-clotting medications with CHMs for cardiovascular or cerebrovascular diseases, the potential risks of increased bleeding due to drug-CHM interactions should not be ignored.
Source : PlosOne
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The Complementary and Alternative Medicine for Endometriosis: A Review of Utilization and Mechanism
Sai Kong,1 Yue-Hui Zhang,2,3 Chen-Fang Liu,1 Ilene Tsui,4 Ying Guo,1 Bei-Bei Ai,1 and Feng-Juan Han2
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin 150040, China
2Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin 150040, China
3Center for Post-Doctoral Studies, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin 150040, China
4Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA 17033, USA
Abstract
Endometriosis (EM) is one of the common gynecological conditions causing menstrual and pelvic pain and affects 10%–15% of women of reproductive age. In recent years, the complementary and alternative medical (CAM) treatment for EM has become popular due to the few adverse reactions reported. The CAM therapy for EM includes several different treatments such as herbs (herbal prescription, extract, and patent), acupuncture, microwave physiotherapy, and Chinese herb medicine enema (CHM enema). These CAM therapies are effective at relieving dysmenorrhoea, shrinking adnexal masses, and promoting pregnancy, with less unpleasant side effects when compared to hormonal and surgical treatments. In this review, we focus on the status quo of CAM on EM and try to identify therapeutic efficacy and mechanisms based on some clinical and experimental studies. We hope to provide some instructive suggestions for clinical treatment and experimental research in the future.
Source : Journal Complementary and Alternative Medicine
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Aqueous extract of dioscorea opposita thunb. normalizes the hypertension in 2K1C hypertensive rats
Nurmuhammat Amat1*†, Raziya Amat1, Sajida Abdureyim2, Parida Hoxur3, Zulpiya Osman1, Dolkun Mamut4*† and Anake Kijjoa5
1 Traditional Uighur Medicine Institute, Xinjiang Medical University, 830011 Urumqi, Xinjiang, PR China
2 First Affiliated Hospital, Xinjiang Medical University, 830011 Urumqi, Xinjiang, PR China
3 Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Xinjiang Medical University, 830011 Urumqi, Xinjiang, PR China
4 Salamat Biotechnology Co., Ltd, Urumqi, Xinjiang 830011 PR China
5 ICBAS-Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas de Abel Salazar and CIIMAR, Universidade do Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
Abstract
Background
Dioscorea opposita Thunb. (Huai Shan Yao, DOT), a common staple food in China, has been used for more than 2000 years in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) to treat different systemic diseases including hypertension. The objective of this study was to investigate the possible antihypertensive effects of the aqueous extract of (DOT) in renovascular hypertensive rats as well as the mechanism in reducing blood pressure.
Methods
The two-kidney one-clip (2K1C) Goldblatt model of renovascular hypertension was used in Wistar rats. Rats with captopril, low-dose DOT and high-dose DOT treated 2K1C groups for 6 weeks. The blood pressure, cardiac mass index (heart weight/body weight), plasma level of angiotensin-II (Ang-II), endothelin-1(ET-1), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and malondialdehyde (MDA) were evaluated.
Results
DOT significantly reduced mean systolic and diastolic blood pressure after treatment. DOT also significantly increased plasma SOD activity but decreased plasma MDA concentration. Renal function was improved with captopril and DOT. DOT reduced plasma Ang-II activity and plasma ET concentration. They couldalso significantly reduce the left ventricular hypertrophy and cardiac mass index.
Conclusions
Our results suggest that DOT may have an antihypertensive effect on hypertension by inhibit ET-converting enzyme and antioxidant activity, which warrant further exploration.
Source BMC
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Herbal medicines for treating tic disorders: a systematic review of randomised controlled trials
Yun Hee Kim1,†Email: [email protected] Chang-Gue Son2,†Email: [email protected] Bon-Cho Ku1Email: [email protected] Hye Won Lee1Email: [email protected] Hyun Sook Lim3Email: [email protected] Myeong Soo Lee1,4,*Email: [email protected]
1 Korean Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon, South Korea
2 Liver & Immunology Research Center, Daejeon Oriental Hospital of Daejeon University, Daejeon, South Korea 3 Department of Nursing, Howon University, Kunsan, South Korea 4 Medical Research Division, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon 305-811, South Korea
Abstract
Background
It was reported that 64% of tic disorder patients used complementary and alternative medicine. This review aims to evaluate the efficacy of herbal medicines in treating tic disorders.
Methods
We searched eight databases including MEDLINE and CINAHL from their respective inceptions up to September 2013. The search terms were related to the concept of “herbal medicine” AND “tic disorder OR Tourette’s syndrome”. We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of any type of herbal medicines. We assessed the methodological quality of the trials according to the Cochrane risk of bias criteria.
Results
Sixty one studies were identified, and four RCTs met the inclusion criteria. Two types of herbal medicines, Qufeng Zhidong Recipe (QZR) decoction and Ningdong (ND) granules, were used in the included RCTs. All four RCTs had a high risk of bias. Two RCTs tested the effects of QZR on the Yale Global Tic Severity Scale (YGTSS) score and response rate compared with conventional medicine. The meta-analysis showed significant effects of QZR on the YGTSS score with high statistical heterogeneity (n = 142; weighted mean difference: −18.34; 95% confidence interval (CI): −23.07 to −13.60; I2 = 97%) and the response rate (n = 142; risk ratio: 1.69; 95% CI: 1.39 to 2.06; I2 = 0%). One RCT compared ND granules with placebo and showed significant effects on the YGTSS score and response rate. The other RCT show significant effects of ND granules plus conventional medicine on the response rate compared with conventional medicine only.
Conclusion
This systematic review provided first piece of limited meta-analytic evidence for the effectiveness of herbal medicines in improving the symptoms of tic disorders
...Discussion
To our knowledge, this is the first systematic review of the effects of herbal medicines for tic disorders. The results suggested that QZR and ND granules were effective in treating tic disorders or Tourette’s syndrome. However, the evidence suggesting that QZR and ND granules represented an effective modality for treating tic disorders or Tourette’s syndrome was limited by small number of trials and the high risk of bias in primary trials
Source : Chinese Medicine Journal
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Chinese herbal medicine for schizophrenia Cochrane systematic review of randomised trials
- John Rathbone, MPhil
- Lan Zhang, MD
- Mingming Zhang, MSc
- Jun Xia, BSc
- Xiehe Liu, MD and
- Yanchun Yang, MD
- Clive E. Adams, MD
- Cochrane Schizophrenia Group, Academic Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Sciences, University of Leeds UK
- Institute of Mental Health, Chengdu, China
- Chinese Cochrane Centre, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Cochrane Schizophrenia Group, Academic Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Sciences, University of Leeds, UK
- Institute of Mental Health, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Cochrane Schizophrenia Group, Academic Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Sciences, University of Leeds, UK
Abstract
Background Chinese herbal medicine has been used to treat millions of people with schizophrenia for thousands of years.
Aims To evaluate Chinese herbal medicine as a treatmentfor schizophrenia.
Method A systematic review of randomised controlled trials (RCTs).
Results Seven trials were included. Most studies evaluated Chinese herbal medicine in combination with Western antipsychotic drugs; in these trials results tended to favour combination treatment compared with antipsychotic alone (Clinical Global Impression `not improved/worse' n=123, RR=0.19, 95% CI 0.1-0.6, NNT=6,95% CI 5-11; n=109, Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale `not improved/worse' RR=0.78,95% CI 0.5-1.2; n=109, Scale for the Assessment of Negative Symptoms `not improved/worse' RR=0.87,95% CI 0.7-1.2; n=109, Scale for the Assessment of Positive Symptoms `not improved/worse' RR=0.69,95% CI 0.5-1.0, NNT=6 95% CI 4-162). Medium-term study attrition was significantlyless for people allocated the herbal/antipsychotic mix (n=897, four RCTs, RR=0.34,95% CI 0.2-0.7, NNT=23,95% CI18-43).
Conclusions Results suggest that combining Chinese herbal medicine with antipsychotics is beneficial.
Source : British Journal of Psychiatry
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Chinese Herbal Medicine Tianqi Reduces Progression From Impaired Glucose Tolerance to Diabetes: A Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled, Multicenter Trial
Fengmei Lian, Guangwei Li, Xinyan Chen, Xiuzhi Wang, Chunli Piao, Jingfei Wang, Yuzhi Hong, Zhuoma Ba, Shentao Wu, Xiaoyan Zhou, Jiangming Lang, Yajun Liu, Rongfang Zhang, Jianjun Hao, Zhangzhi Zhu, Huilin Li, Hong Fang Liu, Aimei Cao, Zhu Yan, Yali An, Yujing Bai, Qiang Wang, Zhong Zhen, Chunhao Yu, Chong-Zhi Wang, Chun-Su Yuan* and Xiaolin Tong*
Abstract
Context: Living in a prediabetes state significantly increases a patient's risk for both diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Tianqi capsule, containing 10 Chinese herbal medicines, is used in China for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).
Objective: The purpose of this study was to assess whether Tianqi prevented T2DM in subjects with impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) over the course of a 12-month treatment.
Methods: Individuals with IGT were randomly allocated in a double-blind manner to receive Tianqi (n = 210) or a placebo (n = 210) for 12 months. Oral glucose tolerance tests were conducted every 3 months to assess the development of diabetes or restoration to normal glucose tolerance. All subjects received the same lifestyle education. The primary endpoint was the conversion of IGT to T2DM. Body weight and body mass index were observed. Adverse effects were monitored.
Results: Of the 420 enrolled subjects with IGT, 389 completed the trial (198 in the Tianqi group and 191 in the placebo group). At the end of the 12-month trial, 36 subjects in the Tianqi group (18.18%) and 56 in the placebo group (29.32%) had developed diabetes (P = .01). There was a significant difference in the number of subjects who had normal glucose tolerance at the end of the study between the Tianqi and placebo groups (n = 125, 63.13%, and n = 89, 46.60%, respectively; P = .001). Cox's proportional hazards model analysis showed that Tianqi reduced the risk of diabetes by 32.1% compared with the placebo. No severe adverse events occurred in the trial. There were no statistical differences in body weight and body mass index changes between the Tianqi group and the placebo group during the 12-month trial.
Conclusions: Treatment with a Tianqi capsule for 12 months significantly decreased the incidence of T2DM in subjects with IGT, and this herbal drug was safe to use.
Source : The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism
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Chinese Herbs for Memory Disorders: A Review and Systematic Analysis of Classical Herbal Literature
Brian H. May, Chuanjian Lu, Yubo Lu, Anthony L. Zhang, Charlie C.L. Xue
Abstract
Text mining and other literature-based investigations can assist in identifying natural products for experimental and clinical research. This article details a method for systematically analyzing data derived from the classical Chinese medical literature. We present the results of electronic searches of Zhong Hua Yi Dian (“Encyclopaedia of Traditional Chinese Medicine”), a CD of 1000 premodern (before 1950) medical books, for single herbs, and other natural products used for dementia, memory disorders, and memory improvement. This review explores how the terminology for these disorders has changed over time and which herbs have been used more or less frequently, and compares the results from the premodern literature with the herbs indexed for memory disorders in a modern pharmacopoeia. The searches located 731 citations deriving from 127 different books written between ca. 188 ad and ca. 1920. Of the 110 different natural products identified, those most frequently cited for forgetfulness were yuan zhi (Polygala tenuifolia), fu shen (Poria cocos), and chang pu (Acorus spp.), all of which have been cited repeatedly over the past 1800 years and appear among the 31 herbs indexed in a modern pharmacopoeia. By providing a complete, hierarchically organized list of herbs for a specific disorder, this approach can assist researchers in selecting herbs for research.
Source : Journal of Acupuncture and Meridian Studies
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Perimenopause Amelioration of a TCM Recipe Composed of Radix Astragali, Radix Angelicae Sinensis, and Folium Epimedii: An In Vivo Study on Natural Aging Rat Model
Ji-Yan Su,1 Qing-Feng Xie,2 Wei-Jin Liu,1 Ping Lai,1 Dan-Dan Liu,1 Li-Hai Tang,1 Tina T. X. Dong,3 Zi-Ren Su,1,4 Karl W. K. Tsim,3 Xiao-Ping Lai,1,4 and Kun-Yin Li5
1School of Chinese Materia Medica, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, China
2Central Laboratory of the Second Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, China
3Department of Biology and Center for Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay Road, Hong Kong
4Dongguan Mathematical Engineering Academy of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Dongguan, Guangdong 523808, China
5The First Affiliated Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510405, China
Abstract
Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has been extensively applied as preferable herbal remedy for menopausal symptoms. In the present work, the potential of a TCM recipe named RRF, composed of Radix Astragali, Radix Angelicae Sinensis, and Folium Epimedii, was investigated on a natural aging rat model. After administration of RRF (141, 282, and 564 mg/kg/d), the circulated estradiol (E2) level increased accompanied by a reduction of serum follicle stimulating hormone (FSH). But no significant impact on serum lutenizing hormone (LH) level was observed. As a result of the E2-FSH-LH adjustment, the histomorphology degenerations of ovary, uterus, and vagina of the 11.5-month female rats were alleviated. And lumbar vertebrae trabecular microstructure was also restored under RRF exposure by means of increasing the trabecular area and area rate. Moreover, levels of hypothalamic dopamine (DA) and norepinephrine (NE) rallied significantly after RRF treatment. Results from our studies suggest that RRF possesses a positive regulation on the estrogen imbalance and neurotransmitter disorder, thereby restoring reproductive organ degeneration and skeleton deterioration. The above-mentioned benefits of RRF on the menopause syndromes recommend RRF as a potential candidate for the treatment of perimenopausal syndrome.
Source : Evidence Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
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Identifying Core Herbal Treatments for Children with Asthma: Implication from a Chinese Herbal Medicine Database in Taiwan
Hsing-Yu Chen,1,2Yi-Hsuan Lin,1,2Peck-Foong Thien,3Shih-Chieh Chang,4,5Yu-Chun Chen,3,5,6Su-Shun Lo,5Sien-Hung Yang,1,7and Jiun-Liang Chen1,7,8
1Division of Chinese Internal Medicine, Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital,No. 123, Dinghu Road, Gueishan, Taoyuan 33378, Taiwan
2Graduate Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, No. 259, Wen Hwa 1st Road,Gueishan, Taoyuan 33302, Taiwan
3Department of Medical Research and Education, National Yang-Ming University Hospital,No.152,XinMinRoad,I-Lan26042,Taiwan
4Division of Chest Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, National Yang-Ming University Hospital,No.152,XinMinRoad,I-Lan26042,Taiwan
5Faculty of Medicine, School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, No. 155, Section 2,Linong Street, Taipei 112, Taiwan
6Institute of Hospital and Health Care Administration, School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University,No.155,Section2,LinongStreet,Taipei112,Taiwan
7School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, No. 259, Wen Hwa 1st Road,Gueishan, Taoyuan 33302, Taiwan
8Institute of Traditional Medicine, School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, No. 155, Section 2,Linong Street, Taipei 112, Taiwan
Asthma is one of the most common allergic respiratory diseases around the world and places great burden on medical payment.Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) is commonly used for Taiwanese children to control diseases. The aim of this study is to analyze the CHM prescriptions for asthmatic children by using a nationwide clinical database. The National Health Insurance Research Database (NHIRD) was used to perform this study. Medical records from 1997 to 2009 with diagnosis with asthma made for children aged 6 to 18 were included into the analysis. Association rule mining and social network analysis were used to analyze the prevalence of single CHM and its combinations. Ma-Xing-Gan-Shi-Tang (MXGST) was the most commonly used herbal formula(HF) (20.2% of all prescriptions), followed by Xiao-Qing-Long-Tang (13.1%) and Xing-Su-San (12.8%). Zhe Bei Mu is the most frequently used single herb (SH) (14.6%), followed by Xing Ren (10.7%). MXGST was commonly used with Zhe Bei Mu (3.5%) and other single herbs capable of dispelling phlegm. Besides, MXGST was the core formula to relieve asthma. Further studies about efficacy and drug safety are needed for the CHM commonly used for asthma based on the result of this study.
Source : Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
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Research advances on the usage of traditional Chinese medicine for neuroprotection in glaucoma
1. Xue-song Mi (Department of Ophthalmology, the First Affiliated Hospital, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510630, Guangdong Province, China )
2. Jing-xiang Zhong (Department of Ophthalmology, the First Affiliated Hospital, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510630, Guangdong Province, China )
3. Raymond Chuen-Chung Chang (Department of Anatomy, and the State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Science, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong, China )
4. Kwok-Fai So (Department of Anatomy, and the State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Science, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong, China )
ABSTRACT: Progressive loss of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) and their axons is the main pathogenesis of glaucoma. The cause of glaucoma is not fully understood, but the neurodegeneration of glaucoma involves many mechanisms such as oxidative stress, glutamate toxicity and ischemia/reperfusion insult. In order to target these mechanisms, multiple neuroprotective interventions have been investigated to prevent the death of RGCs. Of note are some tonic herbs from the traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) pharmacopeia that have shown neuroprotective effects in glaucoma. TCM differs from Western medicine in that TCM exhibits complicated bioactive components, triggering many signaling pathways and extensive actions on vital organs. Modern scientific approaches have demonstrated some of their underlying mechanisms. In this review, we used Lycium barbarum and Ginkgo biloba as examples to elaborate the characteristics of TCM and their potential applications in neuroprotection in glaucoma.
Source : Journal Chinese Integrative Medicine
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Novel Chinese Herbal Medicine JSK Improves Spinal Cord Injury Outcomes in Rats
A new study published in Restorative Neurology and Neuroscience demonstrates that Chinese herbal medicine Ji-Sui-Kang (JSK), given systemically for three weeks after injury in rats, improved locomotor function, reduced tissue damage, and preserved the structure of neural cells compared to control rats. The report also includes data showing that JSK may first act to reduce inflammation and cell apoptosis and death, and boost local oxygen supply while, later on, it appears to restore function and promote tissue regeneration.
Although Chinese herbal medicines have traditionally been used for a variety of ailments, the rationale for their use relies more on anecdotal evidence than the results of modern-day controlled experiments.
"A number of anecdotal reports from Chinese medicine practitioners indicate that treatment with a novel herbal formulation, JSK, for periods of one week or three months improved functional recovery," explains co-lead investigator Shucui Jiang, MD, PhD, head of the Hamilton NeuroRestorative Group at McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. "Our present study provides an important and necessary foundation for further studies of JSK."
In this study rats began JSK treatment immediately after undergoing spinal cord injury. Within 7 days, hindlimb locomotor function was significantly better in JSK-treated rats compared to those receiving only saline. JSK-treated rats continued to have better motor function than controls throughout the 21-day test period and treated animals appeared to support their weight better and have more coordinated movements.
When the investigators looked at histological samples of the spinal cord, they found that the architecture of the spinal cord was better preserved in JSK-treated animals and the size of the injured area was significantly smaller 7 days after injury. JSK-treated animals also showed more intact axons and myelin in the injured areas compared to controls. Other encouraging signs were less deposition of fibrinogen in the injured areas of JSK-treated animals, a decrease in pro-inflammatory COX-2 expression, and fewer cell deaths at the lesion site (as measured by caspase-3 staining).
JSK also increased the expression of growth associated protein 43 (GAP43), a marker of neuronal development and axonal regeneration, and neuroglobulin, a protein found in cerebral neurons that is thought to help neurons survive and recover after trauma. "Our data suggest that JSK may enhance tissue recovery by reducing cell growth inhibitors and by promoting the proliferation of cells within the injured spinal cord," says co-lead investigator Michel P. Rathbone, MD, CHB, PhD, Professor, Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.
Other findings suggest JSK might help protect against injury caused by damage to spinal cord blood vessels. For instance, JSK increased vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), a protein involved in the formation and growth of blood vessels, down-regulated clotting-associated genes, and promoted factors that contribute to vasodilation.
The authors say that JSK targets multiple biochemical and cellular pathways that may help protect against the primary traumatic injury as well as subsequent secondary injuries that evolve over time.
The authors do not disclose the complete herbal composition of JSK for proprietary reasons. Some of its ingredients include Ginseng, Rhizoma (chuan xiong), Glycyrrhizae Radix (gan cao), Paeoniae Alba Radix (bai shao) and Cinnamomi Cortex (rou gui)
Source : Newswise
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Is Tongxinluo More Effective Than Isosorbide Dinitrate in Treating Angina Pectoris? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Yongliang Jia, Feifei Bao, Fangyi Huang, and Siu-wai Leung
Abstract
Background:
Tongxinluo (TXL), consisting of 12 Chinese Materia Medica items catalogued in the Chinese Pharmacopoeia, is commercially available in China, South Korea, and Russia. Hundreds of randomized clinical trials (RCTs) on TXL in treating cardiovascular diseases were conducted and published in China. This study provides a comprehensive Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA)–compliant systematic review with sensitivity and subgroup analyses to evaluate the evidence about whether TXL is more effective than isosorbide dinitrate (ISDN) in treating ischemic heart disease, particularly angina pectoris.
Methods:
RCTs published between 1996 and 2010 on TXL versus ISDN in treating angina pectoris for at least 4 weeks were retrieved from eight bibliographical databases (e.g., MEDLINE,® PubMed, Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure, Cochrane Library, and WanFang Data). The quality of RCTs was assessed with the Jadad scale. Meta-analysis was performed to estimate the overall effects based on symptomatic and electrocardiographic (ECG) improvements. Subgroup analysis, sensitivity analysis, and meta-regression were conducted on the study characteristics of RCTs.
Results:
Twenty (20) RCTs with a total of 1936 participants were included after eligibility assessment. The Jadad score of all included studies was 2. The means of summary odds ratios (ORs) for comparing TXL and nitrates were 3.30 (95% confidence interval [CI] 2.37–4.58) by symptoms (n=20) and 2.38 (95% CI 1.846–3.09) by ECG (n=18). There was a significant correlation of ORs between symptoms and ECG (ρ=0.77 and p=0.00026). Subgroup analysis, sensitivity analysis, and meta-regression found no significant difference in overall effects among all study characteristics except the years of publication (p=0.0409).
Conclusions:
The meta-analysis of 20 eligible RCTs demonstrates moderate evidence that TXL is more effective than ISDN for treating angina pectoris. This result warrants further RCTs of multicenters/countries, larger sample sizes, and higher quality.
Source : The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine
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Tongxinluo capsule for coronary heart disease: a systematic review
- Zhou Zhong-Ran,
- Tang Hai-Qin,
- Li Jie-Hua,
- Yang Lin-Lin,
- Hu Hao
Department of Geriatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
Abstract
Objective To assess the effectiveness and safety of tongxinluo capsule for coronary heart disease.
Methods Trials were located electronic searches of the Cochrane Library (Issue 4, 2010), PubMed (1966 to April 2010), Wangfang (1984 to April 2010), CNKI (1979 to April 2010), VIP (1989 to April 2010), and CBM (1978 to April 2010). Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi-RCTs of tongxinluo capsule for coronary heart disease were included. Quality assessment and data extraction were conducted by two reviewers independently. Disagreement were resolved through discussion. All data were analysed using Review Manager 5.0.
Results 13 studies involving a total of 1 496 participants met the inclusion criteria. Meta analysis results showed that: compared with nitrate esters, tongxinluo capsule for the coronary heart disease group had superiority in many aspects such as amelioration according to curative effect: tongxinluo capsule is better than isosorbide dinitrate [RR 0.50 and 95% CI 0.36 to 0.70], than isosorbide mononitrate [RR 0.19 and 95% CI 0.12 to 0.30], total efficacy [RR 0.34 and 95% CI 0.26 to 0.44, p<0.00001], the two groups had significant difference; Effectiveness according to EKG: tongxinluo capsule is better than isosorbide denigrate [RR 0.55 and 95% CI 0.46 to 0.66], than isosorbide mononitrate [RR 0.58 and 95% CI 0.48 to 0.70], total efficacy [RR 0.56 and 95% CI 0.49 to 0.64, p<0.00001], the two groups had significant difference; the tongxinluo group has a lower rates of adverse effect than itrate esters group. Meta-analysis results showed that the incidence rates of adverse effect [RR 0.33 and 95% CI 0.20 to 0.53], p<0.00001], the two groups had significant difference.
Conclusion Now we have evidence to indicate that tongxinluo capsule can improve curative effect no worse than isosorbide dinitrate or isosorbide mononitrate, and have a lower rates of adverse effect. But more large scale multi center randomised trials are still needed.
Source : Journal Heart and Education in Heart
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