OBJECTIVE Brain inflammation plays an important role in the pathophysiology of brain ischemicstroke,psychiatric and neurological diseases.During brain inflammation,microglia cells are activated and show pro-inflammato...OBJECTIVE Brain inflammation plays an important role in the pathophysiology of brain ischemicstroke,psychiatric and neurological diseases.During brain inflammation,microglia cells are activated and show pro-inflammatory M1 and anti-inflammatory M2 phenotypes,producing neurotoxic molecules and neurotrophic factors,respectively.We have previously discovered a novel natural product compound 3c exhibiting antiinflammatory effects in microglia cells,but the underlying mechanisms and its beneficial effects on brain inflammation and brain ischemia are unknown.METHODS The gene expression of M1 markers and M2 markers was measured by RT-PCR.The AMPK phosphorylation level and M2 marker CD206 protein expression were determined by Western blotting.TNFαrelease was measured by ELISA.The gene knowdown was performed by the si RNA transfection experiment.The LPS-induced brain inflammation mouse model and transient middle cerebral artery occlusion(t MCAO)stroke model were used.RESULTS We found that compound 3c inhibited M1polarization and promoted M2 polarization in LPS-stimulated BV2 and primary microglia cells,and these effects are mediated by Ca MKKβ/AMPK/JNK signaling pathway.Furthermore,compound 3c prevented M1 gene expression and enhanced M2 gene expression in a mouse model of LPS-induced neuroinflammation,and reduced the LPS-induced sickness behavior.In addition,compound 3c significantly reduced infarct volume,improved the neurological deficit,and reduced neuroinflammation in rats with acute focal cerebral ischemia.CONCLUSION Our results indicate that natural product compound 3c suppresses microglia activation by promoting M2 polarization and may provide a novel therapeutic approach to treat brain ischemic stroke associated with enhanced brain inflammation.展开更多
Macrophages play an important role in inflammation, and excessive and chronic activation of macrophages leads to systemic inflammatory diseases, such as atherosclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis. In this paper, we expl...Macrophages play an important role in inflammation, and excessive and chronic activation of macrophages leads to systemic inflammatory diseases, such as atherosclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis. In this paper, we explored the anti-inflammatory effect of broussonin E, a novel phenolic compound isolated from the barks of Broussonetia kanzinoki, and its underlying molecular mechanisms. We discovered that Broussonin E could suppress the LPS-induced pro-inflammatory production in RAW264.7 cells, involving TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, COX-2 and iNOS. And broussonin E enhanced the expressions of anti-inflammatory mediators such as IL-10, CD206 and arginase-1(Arg-1) in LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 cells. Further, we demonstrated that broussonin E inhibited the LPS-stimulated phosphorylation of ERK and p38 MAPK. Moreover, we found that broussonin E could activate janus kinase(JAK) 2, signal transducer and activator of transcription(STAT) 3. Downregulated pro-inflammatory cytokines and upregulated anti-inflammatory factors by broussonin E were abolished by using the inhibitor of JAK2-STAT3 pathway, WP1066. Taken together, our results showed that broussonin E could suppress inflammation by modulating macrophages activation state via inhibiting the ERK and p38 MAPK and enhancing JAK2-STAT3 signaling pathway, and can be further developed as a promising drug for the treatment of inflammation-related diseases such as atherosclerosis.展开更多
With the internationally growing popularity of traditional Chinese medicine(TCM), TCM-induced nephropathy has attracted public attention. Minimizing this toxicity is an important issue for future research. Typical nep...With the internationally growing popularity of traditional Chinese medicine(TCM), TCM-induced nephropathy has attracted public attention. Minimizing this toxicity is an important issue for future research. Typical nephrotoxic TCM drugs such as Aristolochic acid, Tripterygium wilfordii Hook. f, Rheum officinale Baill, and cinnabar mainly damage renal proximal tubules or cause interstitial nephritis. Transporters in renal proximal tubule are believed to be critical in the disposition of xenobiotics. In this review, we provide information on the alteration of renal transporters by nephrotoxic TCMs, which may be helpful for understanding the nephrotoxic mechanism of TCMs and reducing adverse effects. Studies have proven that when administering nephrotoxic TCMs, the expression or function of renal transporters is altered, especially organic anion transporter 1 and 3. The alteration of these transporters may enhance the accumulation of toxic drugs or the dysfunction of endogenous toxins and subsequently sensitize the kidney to injury.Transporters-related drug combination and clinical biomarkers supervision to avoid the risk of future toxicity are proposed.展开更多
Fructus Psoraleae,which is commonly consumed for the treatment of osteoporosis,bone fracture,and leucoderma,induces liver injury.This study investigated the pathogenesis of the ethanol extract of Fructus Psoraleae(EEF...Fructus Psoraleae,which is commonly consumed for the treatment of osteoporosis,bone fracture,and leucoderma,induces liver injury.This study investigated the pathogenesis of the ethanol extract of Fructus Psoraleae(EEFP)-induced liver injury in rats.EEFP(1.35,1.80,and 2.25 g·kg^–1)was administrated to Sprague Dawley(SD)rats for 30 d.We measured liver chemistries,histopathology,and quantitative isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantitation(iTRAQ)-based protein profiling.EEFP demonstrated parameters suggestive of liver injury with changes in bile secretion,bile flow rate,and liver histopathology.iTRAQ analysis showed that a total of 4042 proteins were expressed in liver tissues of EEFP-treated and untreated rats.Among these proteins,81 were upregulated and 32 were downregulated in the treatment group.KEGG pathway analysis showed that the drug metabolic pathways of cytochrome P450,glutathione metabolism,glycerolipid metabolism,and bile secretion were enriched with differentially expressed proteins.The expression of key proteins related to the farnesoid X receptor(FXR),i.e.,the peroxisome proliferators-activated receptor alpha(PPAR-α),were downregulated,and multidrug resistance-associated protein 3(MRP3)was upregulated in the EEFP-treated rats.Our results provide evidence that EEFP may induce hepatotoxicity through various pathways.Furthermore,our study demonstrates changes in protein regulation using iTRAQ quantitative proteomics analysis.展开更多
Abrus mollis is a widely used traditional Chinese medicine for treating acute and chronic hepatitis, steatosis, and fibrosis. It was found that the total flavonoid C-glycosides from Abrus mollis extract(AME) showed po...Abrus mollis is a widely used traditional Chinese medicine for treating acute and chronic hepatitis, steatosis, and fibrosis. It was found that the total flavonoid C-glycosides from Abrus mollis extract(AME) showed potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and hepatoprotective activities. To further investigate the hepatoprotective effect of AME and its possible mechanisms, lipopolysaccharide(LPS)-induced liver injury models were applied in the current study. The results indicated that AME significantly attenuated LPS-induced lipid accumulation in mouse primary hepatocytes as measured by triglyceride(TG) and total cholesterol(TC) assays and Oil Red O staining. Meanwhile, AME exerted a protective effect on LPS-induced liver injury as shown by decreased liver index, serum aminotransferase levels, and hepatic lipid accumulation. Real-time PCR and immunoblot data suggested that AME reversed the LPS-mediated lipid metabolism gene expression, such as sterol regulatory element-binding protein-1(SREBP-1), fatty acid synthase(FAS), and acetyl-CoA carboxylase 1(ACC1). In addition, LPS-induced overexpression of activating transcription factor 4(ATF4), X-box-binding protein-1(XBP-1), and C/EBP homologous protein(CHOP) were dramatically reversed by AME. Furthermore, AME also decreased the expression of LPS-enhanced interleukin-6(IL-6) and cyclooxygenase-2(COX-2). Here, it is demonstrated for the first time that AME ameliorated LPS-induced hepatic lipid accumulation and that this effect of AME can be attributed to its modulation of hepatic de novo fatty acid synthesis. This study also suggested that the hepatoprotective effect of AME may be related to its down-regulation of unfolded protein response(UPR) activation.展开更多
The aim of this study was to evaluate the anti-inflammatory and hepatoprotective effects of the total flavonoid C-glycosides isolated from Abrus mollis extracts(AME). In the anti-inflammatory tests, xylene-induced ear...The aim of this study was to evaluate the anti-inflammatory and hepatoprotective effects of the total flavonoid C-glycosides isolated from Abrus mollis extracts(AME). In the anti-inflammatory tests, xylene-induced ear edema model in mice and carrageenan-induced paw edema model in rats were applied. The hepatoprotective effects of AME were evaluated with various in vivo models of acute and chronic liver injury, including carbon tetrachloride(CCl4)-induced hepatitis in mice, D-galactosamine(D-GalN)-induced hepatitis in rats, as well as CCl4-induced hepatic fibrosis in rats. In the acute inflammation experiment, AME significantly suppressed xylene-induced ear edema and carrageenan-induced paw edema, respectively. In the acute hepatitis tests, AME significantly attenuated the excessive release of ALT and AST induced by CCl4 and D-GalN. In CCl4-induced hepatic fibrosis model, AME alleviated liver injury induced by CCl4 shown by histopathological sections of livers and improved liver function as indicated by decreased liver index, serum ALT, AST, TBIL, and ALP levels and hydroxyproline contents in liver tissues, and increased serum ALB and GLU levels. These results indicated that AME possesses potent anti-inflammatory activity in acute inflammation models and hepatoprotective activity in both acute and chronic liver injury models. In conclusion, AME is a potential anti-inflammatory and hepatoprotective agent and a viable candidate for treating inflammation, hepatitis, and hepatic fibrosis.展开更多
AIM： To investigate the anticancer activity of DT-13 under normoxia and determine the underlying mechanisms of action. METHODS： MDA-MB-435 cell proliferation, migration, and adhesion were performed to assess the ant...AIM： To investigate the anticancer activity of DT-13 under normoxia and determine the underlying mechanisms of action. METHODS： MDA-MB-435 cell proliferation, migration, and adhesion were performed to assess the anticancer activity of DT-13, a saponin from Ophiopogonjaponicus, in vitro. In addition, the effects of DT-13 on tumor growth and metastasis in vivo were evaluated by orthotopic implantation of MDA-MB-435 cells into nude mice; mRNA levels of vascular endothelial growth factor （VEGF）, C-C chemokine receptor type 5 （CCR5） and hypoxia-inducible factor 1a （HIF-1a） were evaluated by real-time quantitative PCR; and CCR5 protein levels were detected by Western blot assay. RESULTS： At 0.01 to 1 umol·L -1, DT-13 inhibited MDA-MB-435 cell proliferation, migration, and adhesion significantly in vitro. DT-13 reduced VEGF and CCR5 mRNAs, and decreased CCR5 protein expression by down-regulating HIF-1 a. In addition, DT-13 inhibited MDA-MB-435 cell lung metastasis, and restricted tumor growth slightly in vivo. CONCLUSION： DT-13 inhibited MDA-MB-435 cell proliferation, adhesion, and migration in vitro, and lung metastasis in vivo by reducing VEGF, CCR5, and HIF-la expression.展开更多
AIM: To investigate the molecular signaling mechanism by which the plant-derived, pentacyclic triterpene maslinic acid(MA) exerts anti-diabetic effects. METHOD: HepG2 cells were stimulated with various concentrations ...AIM: To investigate the molecular signaling mechanism by which the plant-derived, pentacyclic triterpene maslinic acid(MA) exerts anti-diabetic effects. METHOD: HepG2 cells were stimulated with various concentrations of MA. The effects of MA on glycogen phosphorylase a(GPa) activity and the cellular glycogen content were measured. Western blot analyses were performed with anti-insulin receptor β(IRβ), protein kinase B(also known as Akt), and glycogen synthase kinase-3β(GSK3β) antibodies. Activation status of the insulin pathway was investigated using phospho-IRβ, as well as phospho-Akt, and phospho-GSK3β antibodies. The specific PI3-kinase inhibitor wortmannin was added to the cells to analyze the Akt expression. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay(ELISA) was used to measure the effect of MA on IRβ auto-phosphorylation. Furthermore, the effect of MA on glycogen metabolism was investigated in C57BL/6J mice fed with a high-fat diet(HFD). RESULTS: The results showed that MA exerts anti-diabetic effects by increasing glycogen content and inhibiting glycogen phosphorylase activity in HepG2 cells. Furthermore, MA was shown to induce the phosphorylation level of IRβ-subunit, Akt, and GSK3β. The MA-induced activation of Akt appeared to be specific, since it could be blocked by wortmannin. Finally, MA treatment of mice fed with a high-fat diet reduced the model-associated adiposity and insulin resistance, and increased the accumulated hepatic glycogen content. CONCLUSION: The results suggested that maslinic acid modulates glycogen metabolism by enhancing the insulin signaling pathway and inhibiting glycogen phosphorylase.展开更多
Triptolide(TP) induces severe liver injury, but its hepatotoxicity mechanisms are still unclear. Inflammatory responses may be involved in the pathophysiology. Neutrophils are the first-line immune effectors for steri...Triptolide(TP) induces severe liver injury, but its hepatotoxicity mechanisms are still unclear. Inflammatory responses may be involved in the pathophysiology. Neutrophils are the first-line immune effectors for sterile and non-sterile inflammatory responses. Thus, the aim of the present study was to investigate the neutrophilic inflammatory response in TP-induced liver injury in C57 BL/6 mice. Our results showed that neutrophils were recruited and accumulated in the liver, which was parallel to or slightly after the development of liver injury. Neutrophils induced release of myeloperoxidase and up-regulation of CD11 b, which caused cytotoxicity and hepatocyte death. Hepatic expressions of CXL1, TNF-α, IL-6, and MCP1 were increased significantly to regulate neutrophils recruitment and activation. Up-regulation of toll like receptors 4 and 9 also facilitated neutrophils infiltration. Moreover, neutrophils depletion using an anti-Gr1 antibody showed mild protection against TP overdose. These results indicated that neutrophils accumulation might be the secondary response, not the cause of TP-induced liver injury. In conclusion, the inflammatory response including neutrophil infiltration may play a role in TP-induced hepatotoxicity, but may not be severe enough to cause additional liver injury.展开更多
Benign prostatic hyperplasia(BPH) is an age-related disease of unknown etiology, characterized by prostatic enlargement coincident with distinct alterations in tissue histology. In the present study, we investigated w...Benign prostatic hyperplasia(BPH) is an age-related disease of unknown etiology, characterized by prostatic enlargement coincident with distinct alterations in tissue histology. In the present study, we investigated whether triptolide can prevent testosterone-induced prostatic hyperplasia in rats. Castration was performed via the scrotal route after urethane aesthesia. BPH was induced in experimental groups by daily subcutaneous injections of testosterone propionate(TP) for two weeks. Triptolide was administered daily by oral gavage at a dose of 100 and 50 μg×kg^(-1) for 2 weeks, along with the TP injections. On day 14, the animals were humanely killed by cervical dislocation after aesthesia. Prostates were excised, weighed, and used for histological studies. Testosterone and dihydrotestosterone(DHT) levels in serum and prostate were measured. The results showed that triptolide significantly reduced the prostate weight, and the testosterone and DHT levels in both the serum and prostate. Histopathological examination also showed that triptolide treatment suppressed TP-induced prostatic hyperplasia. In conclusion, triptolide effectively inhibits the development of BPH induced by testosterone in a rat model.展开更多
Marsdenia tenacissima, a traditional Chinese medicine, is long been used to treat various diseases including asthma, cancer, trachitis, tonsillitis, pharyngitis, cystitis, and pneumonia. Although Marsdenia tenacissima...Marsdenia tenacissima, a traditional Chinese medicine, is long been used to treat various diseases including asthma, cancer, trachitis, tonsillitis, pharyngitis, cystitis, and pneumonia. Although Marsdenia tenacissima has been demonstrated to have strong anti-tumor effects against primary tumors, its effect on cancer metastasis remains to be defined, and the molecular mechanism underlying the anti-metastatic effect is unknown. In the present study, we investigated the effects of XAP(an extract of Marsdenia tenacissima) on A549 lung cancer cell migration and explored the role of CCR5-CCL5 axis in the anti-metastatic effects of XAP. Our resutls showed that XAP inhibited A549 lung cancer cell migration and invasion in a dose-dependent manner. The protein levels of CCR5, but not CCR9 and CXCR4, were decreased by XAP. The secretion of CCL5, the ligand of CCR5, was reduced by XAP. XAP down-regulated Rho C expression and FAK phosphorylation. In conclusion, XAP inhibited A549 cell migration and invasion through down-regulation of CCR5-CCL5 axis, Rho C, and FAK.展开更多
文摘OBJECTIVE Brain inflammation plays an important role in the pathophysiology of brain ischemicstroke,psychiatric and neurological diseases.During brain inflammation,microglia cells are activated and show pro-inflammatory M1 and anti-inflammatory M2 phenotypes,producing neurotoxic molecules and neurotrophic factors,respectively.We have previously discovered a novel natural product compound 3c exhibiting antiinflammatory effects in microglia cells,but the underlying mechanisms and its beneficial effects on brain inflammation and brain ischemia are unknown.METHODS The gene expression of M1 markers and M2 markers was measured by RT-PCR.The AMPK phosphorylation level and M2 marker CD206 protein expression were determined by Western blotting.TNFαrelease was measured by ELISA.The gene knowdown was performed by the si RNA transfection experiment.The LPS-induced brain inflammation mouse model and transient middle cerebral artery occlusion(t MCAO)stroke model were used.RESULTS We found that compound 3c inhibited M1polarization and promoted M2 polarization in LPS-stimulated BV2 and primary microglia cells,and these effects are mediated by Ca MKKβ/AMPK/JNK signaling pathway.Furthermore,compound 3c prevented M1 gene expression and enhanced M2 gene expression in a mouse model of LPS-induced neuroinflammation,and reduced the LPS-induced sickness behavior.In addition,compound 3c significantly reduced infarct volume,improved the neurological deficit,and reduced neuroinflammation in rats with acute focal cerebral ischemia.CONCLUSION Our results indicate that natural product compound 3c suppresses microglia activation by promoting M2 polarization and may provide a novel therapeutic approach to treat brain ischemic stroke associated with enhanced brain inflammation.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.81703530 and 81773995)the Natural Science Foundation of Jiangsu Province(Nos.BK20160032 and BK20170859)+2 种基金the Opening Project of Zhejiang Provincial Preponderant and Characteristic Subject of Key University(Traditional Chinese Pharmacology)Zhejiang Chinese Medical University(No.ZYAOX2018001)the Six Talent Peaks Project of Jiangsu Province(PANG Tao)
文摘Macrophages play an important role in inflammation, and excessive and chronic activation of macrophages leads to systemic inflammatory diseases, such as atherosclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis. In this paper, we explored the anti-inflammatory effect of broussonin E, a novel phenolic compound isolated from the barks of Broussonetia kanzinoki, and its underlying molecular mechanisms. We discovered that Broussonin E could suppress the LPS-induced pro-inflammatory production in RAW264.7 cells, involving TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, COX-2 and iNOS. And broussonin E enhanced the expressions of anti-inflammatory mediators such as IL-10, CD206 and arginase-1(Arg-1) in LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 cells. Further, we demonstrated that broussonin E inhibited the LPS-stimulated phosphorylation of ERK and p38 MAPK. Moreover, we found that broussonin E could activate janus kinase(JAK) 2, signal transducer and activator of transcription(STAT) 3. Downregulated pro-inflammatory cytokines and upregulated anti-inflammatory factors by broussonin E were abolished by using the inhibitor of JAK2-STAT3 pathway, WP1066. Taken together, our results showed that broussonin E could suppress inflammation by modulating macrophages activation state via inhibiting the ERK and p38 MAPK and enhancing JAK2-STAT3 signaling pathway, and can be further developed as a promising drug for the treatment of inflammation-related diseases such as atherosclerosis.
基金National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.81673684,81703626,81573690)Double First-Class University projects(No.CPU2018GY33)。
文摘With the internationally growing popularity of traditional Chinese medicine(TCM), TCM-induced nephropathy has attracted public attention. Minimizing this toxicity is an important issue for future research. Typical nephrotoxic TCM drugs such as Aristolochic acid, Tripterygium wilfordii Hook. f, Rheum officinale Baill, and cinnabar mainly damage renal proximal tubules or cause interstitial nephritis. Transporters in renal proximal tubule are believed to be critical in the disposition of xenobiotics. In this review, we provide information on the alteration of renal transporters by nephrotoxic TCMs, which may be helpful for understanding the nephrotoxic mechanism of TCMs and reducing adverse effects. Studies have proven that when administering nephrotoxic TCMs, the expression or function of renal transporters is altered, especially organic anion transporter 1 and 3. The alteration of these transporters may enhance the accumulation of toxic drugs or the dysfunction of endogenous toxins and subsequently sensitize the kidney to injury.Transporters-related drug combination and clinical biomarkers supervision to avoid the risk of future toxicity are proposed.
基金supported by the the National Key Research and Development Program, Specialized Research on Modernization of TCM (Nos. 2018YFC1708006 and 2018YFC1708003)National Major New Drug Creation Special Project “National Drug New Varieties Research and Development and Its Key Innovative Technology Topics” (No. 2017ZX09301060-005)+3 种基金the National Natural Science Foundation of China (No. 81320108029)Tianshan Cedar Plan (No. 2018XS21)National “Major Scientific and Technological Special Project for Significant New Drugs Creation” Project (No. 2015ZX09501004-002-004)Specific Fund for Pub-lic Interest Research of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ministry of Finance of China (No. 201507004-002)。
文摘Fructus Psoraleae,which is commonly consumed for the treatment of osteoporosis,bone fracture,and leucoderma,induces liver injury.This study investigated the pathogenesis of the ethanol extract of Fructus Psoraleae(EEFP)-induced liver injury in rats.EEFP(1.35,1.80,and 2.25 g·kg^–1)was administrated to Sprague Dawley(SD)rats for 30 d.We measured liver chemistries,histopathology,and quantitative isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantitation(iTRAQ)-based protein profiling.EEFP demonstrated parameters suggestive of liver injury with changes in bile secretion,bile flow rate,and liver histopathology.iTRAQ analysis showed that a total of 4042 proteins were expressed in liver tissues of EEFP-treated and untreated rats.Among these proteins,81 were upregulated and 32 were downregulated in the treatment group.KEGG pathway analysis showed that the drug metabolic pathways of cytochrome P450,glutathione metabolism,glycerolipid metabolism,and bile secretion were enriched with differentially expressed proteins.The expression of key proteins related to the farnesoid X receptor(FXR),i.e.,the peroxisome proliferators-activated receptor alpha(PPAR-α),were downregulated,and multidrug resistance-associated protein 3(MRP3)was upregulated in the EEFP-treated rats.Our results provide evidence that EEFP may induce hepatotoxicity through various pathways.Furthermore,our study demonstrates changes in protein regulation using iTRAQ quantitative proteomics analysis.
基金supported by the Mega-projects of Science Research for the 11th Five-Year Plan(No.2009ZX09103-315)the 12th Five-Year Plan(No.2013ZX09301-303-003)+2 种基金the 111 Project(No.111-2-07),the 2011’Program for Excellent ScientificTechnological Innovation Team of Jiangsu Higher Education and the Specific Fund for Public Interest Research of Traditional Chinese Medicine,Ministry of Finance(No.200707008)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.81172955)
文摘Abrus mollis is a widely used traditional Chinese medicine for treating acute and chronic hepatitis, steatosis, and fibrosis. It was found that the total flavonoid C-glycosides from Abrus mollis extract(AME) showed potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and hepatoprotective activities. To further investigate the hepatoprotective effect of AME and its possible mechanisms, lipopolysaccharide(LPS)-induced liver injury models were applied in the current study. The results indicated that AME significantly attenuated LPS-induced lipid accumulation in mouse primary hepatocytes as measured by triglyceride(TG) and total cholesterol(TC) assays and Oil Red O staining. Meanwhile, AME exerted a protective effect on LPS-induced liver injury as shown by decreased liver index, serum aminotransferase levels, and hepatic lipid accumulation. Real-time PCR and immunoblot data suggested that AME reversed the LPS-mediated lipid metabolism gene expression, such as sterol regulatory element-binding protein-1(SREBP-1), fatty acid synthase(FAS), and acetyl-CoA carboxylase 1(ACC1). In addition, LPS-induced overexpression of activating transcription factor 4(ATF4), X-box-binding protein-1(XBP-1), and C/EBP homologous protein(CHOP) were dramatically reversed by AME. Furthermore, AME also decreased the expression of LPS-enhanced interleukin-6(IL-6) and cyclooxygenase-2(COX-2). Here, it is demonstrated for the first time that AME ameliorated LPS-induced hepatic lipid accumulation and that this effect of AME can be attributed to its modulation of hepatic de novo fatty acid synthesis. This study also suggested that the hepatoprotective effect of AME may be related to its down-regulation of unfolded protein response(UPR) activation.
基金supported by Mega-projects of Science Research for the 11th Five-Year Plan(No.2009ZX 09103-315)12th Five-Year Plan(No.2013ZX09301-303-003)+1 种基金the 111 Project(No.111-2-07)2011’Program for Excellent Scientific and Technological Innovation Team of Jiangsu Higher Education
文摘The aim of this study was to evaluate the anti-inflammatory and hepatoprotective effects of the total flavonoid C-glycosides isolated from Abrus mollis extracts(AME). In the anti-inflammatory tests, xylene-induced ear edema model in mice and carrageenan-induced paw edema model in rats were applied. The hepatoprotective effects of AME were evaluated with various in vivo models of acute and chronic liver injury, including carbon tetrachloride(CCl4)-induced hepatitis in mice, D-galactosamine(D-GalN)-induced hepatitis in rats, as well as CCl4-induced hepatic fibrosis in rats. In the acute inflammation experiment, AME significantly suppressed xylene-induced ear edema and carrageenan-induced paw edema, respectively. In the acute hepatitis tests, AME significantly attenuated the excessive release of ALT and AST induced by CCl4 and D-GalN. In CCl4-induced hepatic fibrosis model, AME alleviated liver injury induced by CCl4 shown by histopathological sections of livers and improved liver function as indicated by decreased liver index, serum ALT, AST, TBIL, and ALP levels and hydroxyproline contents in liver tissues, and increased serum ALB and GLU levels. These results indicated that AME possesses potent anti-inflammatory activity in acute inflammation models and hepatoprotective activity in both acute and chronic liver injury models. In conclusion, AME is a potential anti-inflammatory and hepatoprotective agent and a viable candidate for treating inflammation, hepatitis, and hepatic fibrosis.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation(Nos.81102853,81071841)the 2011’Program for Excellent Scientific and Technological Innovation Team of Jiangsu Higher Education
文摘AIM： To investigate the anticancer activity of DT-13 under normoxia and determine the underlying mechanisms of action. METHODS： MDA-MB-435 cell proliferation, migration, and adhesion were performed to assess the anticancer activity of DT-13, a saponin from Ophiopogonjaponicus, in vitro. In addition, the effects of DT-13 on tumor growth and metastasis in vivo were evaluated by orthotopic implantation of MDA-MB-435 cells into nude mice; mRNA levels of vascular endothelial growth factor （VEGF）, C-C chemokine receptor type 5 （CCR5） and hypoxia-inducible factor 1a （HIF-1a） were evaluated by real-time quantitative PCR; and CCR5 protein levels were detected by Western blot assay. RESULTS： At 0.01 to 1 umol·L -1, DT-13 inhibited MDA-MB-435 cell proliferation, migration, and adhesion significantly in vitro. DT-13 reduced VEGF and CCR5 mRNAs, and decreased CCR5 protein expression by down-regulating HIF-1 a. In addition, DT-13 inhibited MDA-MB-435 cell lung metastasis, and restricted tumor growth slightly in vivo. CONCLUSION： DT-13 inhibited MDA-MB-435 cell proliferation, adhesion, and migration in vitro, and lung metastasis in vivo by reducing VEGF, CCR5, and HIF-la expression.
基金supported by the FundamentalResearch Funds for the Central Universities(No.JKP2011004)
文摘AIM: To investigate the molecular signaling mechanism by which the plant-derived, pentacyclic triterpene maslinic acid(MA) exerts anti-diabetic effects. METHOD: HepG2 cells were stimulated with various concentrations of MA. The effects of MA on glycogen phosphorylase a(GPa) activity and the cellular glycogen content were measured. Western blot analyses were performed with anti-insulin receptor β(IRβ), protein kinase B(also known as Akt), and glycogen synthase kinase-3β(GSK3β) antibodies. Activation status of the insulin pathway was investigated using phospho-IRβ, as well as phospho-Akt, and phospho-GSK3β antibodies. The specific PI3-kinase inhibitor wortmannin was added to the cells to analyze the Akt expression. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay(ELISA) was used to measure the effect of MA on IRβ auto-phosphorylation. Furthermore, the effect of MA on glycogen metabolism was investigated in C57BL/6J mice fed with a high-fat diet(HFD). RESULTS: The results showed that MA exerts anti-diabetic effects by increasing glycogen content and inhibiting glycogen phosphorylase activity in HepG2 cells. Furthermore, MA was shown to induce the phosphorylation level of IRβ-subunit, Akt, and GSK3β. The MA-induced activation of Akt appeared to be specific, since it could be blocked by wortmannin. Finally, MA treatment of mice fed with a high-fat diet reduced the model-associated adiposity and insulin resistance, and increased the accumulated hepatic glycogen content. CONCLUSION: The results suggested that maslinic acid modulates glycogen metabolism by enhancing the insulin signaling pathway and inhibiting glycogen phosphorylase.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.81703626,81773995,81773827,81573514,81673684,81673443,81573690,81173651,and 81320108029)the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities(No.2632017PY11)+1 种基金the Natural Science Foundation of Jiangsu Province(No.BK20151439)the College Students Innovation Project for the R&D of Novel Drugs(No.J1310032)
文摘Triptolide(TP) induces severe liver injury, but its hepatotoxicity mechanisms are still unclear. Inflammatory responses may be involved in the pathophysiology. Neutrophils are the first-line immune effectors for sterile and non-sterile inflammatory responses. Thus, the aim of the present study was to investigate the neutrophilic inflammatory response in TP-induced liver injury in C57 BL/6 mice. Our results showed that neutrophils were recruited and accumulated in the liver, which was parallel to or slightly after the development of liver injury. Neutrophils induced release of myeloperoxidase and up-regulation of CD11 b, which caused cytotoxicity and hepatocyte death. Hepatic expressions of CXL1, TNF-α, IL-6, and MCP1 were increased significantly to regulate neutrophils recruitment and activation. Up-regulation of toll like receptors 4 and 9 also facilitated neutrophils infiltration. Moreover, neutrophils depletion using an anti-Gr1 antibody showed mild protection against TP overdose. These results indicated that neutrophils accumulation might be the secondary response, not the cause of TP-induced liver injury. In conclusion, the inflammatory response including neutrophil infiltration may play a role in TP-induced hepatotoxicity, but may not be severe enough to cause additional liver injury.
基金supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.81173651,81320108029,and 81303301)the 2011’ Program for Excellent Scientific and Technological Innovation Team of Jiangsu Higher Education,“the 111 Project(111-2-07)”
文摘Benign prostatic hyperplasia(BPH) is an age-related disease of unknown etiology, characterized by prostatic enlargement coincident with distinct alterations in tissue histology. In the present study, we investigated whether triptolide can prevent testosterone-induced prostatic hyperplasia in rats. Castration was performed via the scrotal route after urethane aesthesia. BPH was induced in experimental groups by daily subcutaneous injections of testosterone propionate(TP) for two weeks. Triptolide was administered daily by oral gavage at a dose of 100 and 50 μg×kg^(-1) for 2 weeks, along with the TP injections. On day 14, the animals were humanely killed by cervical dislocation after aesthesia. Prostates were excised, weighed, and used for histological studies. Testosterone and dihydrotestosterone(DHT) levels in serum and prostate were measured. The results showed that triptolide significantly reduced the prostate weight, and the testosterone and DHT levels in both the serum and prostate. Histopathological examination also showed that triptolide treatment suppressed TP-induced prostatic hyperplasia. In conclusion, triptolide effectively inhibits the development of BPH induced by testosterone in a rat model.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.81302794)the Natural Science Foundation of Jiangsu Province(No.2012353)the Specialized Research Fund for the Doctoral Program of Higher Education of China(No.20120096120012)
文摘Marsdenia tenacissima, a traditional Chinese medicine, is long been used to treat various diseases including asthma, cancer, trachitis, tonsillitis, pharyngitis, cystitis, and pneumonia. Although Marsdenia tenacissima has been demonstrated to have strong anti-tumor effects against primary tumors, its effect on cancer metastasis remains to be defined, and the molecular mechanism underlying the anti-metastatic effect is unknown. In the present study, we investigated the effects of XAP(an extract of Marsdenia tenacissima) on A549 lung cancer cell migration and explored the role of CCR5-CCL5 axis in the anti-metastatic effects of XAP. Our resutls showed that XAP inhibited A549 lung cancer cell migration and invasion in a dose-dependent manner. The protein levels of CCR5, but not CCR9 and CXCR4, were decreased by XAP. The secretion of CCL5, the ligand of CCR5, was reduced by XAP. XAP down-regulated Rho C expression and FAK phosphorylation. In conclusion, XAP inhibited A549 cell migration and invasion through down-regulation of CCR5-CCL5 axis, Rho C, and FAK.
