Network pharmacology studies on the effect of Chai-Ling decoction incoronavirus disease 2019

Background:Chai-Ling decoction(CLD),derived from a modification of Xiao-Chai-Hu(XCH)decoction and Wu-Ling-San(WLS)decoction,has been used to treat the early-stage of coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19).However,the mechanisms of CLD in COVID-19 remain unknown.In this study,the potential mechanisms of CLD in COVID-19 were preliminarily investigated based on network pharmacology and molecular docking method.Methods:Initially,the active components and targets of CLD were screened based on Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology Database and Analysis Platform and PharmMapper database.The targets of COVID-19 were obtained from GeneCards database.The protein-protein interaction network was established using STRING database to analyze the key targets.Gene Oncology(GO)analysis and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes analysis were also conducted to evaluate the pathways related to the targets of CLD on COVID-19.Moreover,the compound-target-pathway network was established using Cytoscape 3.2.7.Subsequently,the molecular docking method was performed to select the active compounds with high binding affinity on severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2(SARS-CoV-2)and angiotensin-converting enzyme 2(ACE2),which is the key target of SARS-CoV-2 in entering target cells.The possible binding sites were also visualized by a three-dimensional graph.Results:Network pharmacology analysis showed that there were 106 active components and 160 targets of CLD.Additionally,251 targets related to COVID-19 were identified,and 24 candidates of CLD on COVID-19 were selected.A total of 283 GO terms of CLD on COVID-19 were identified,and 181 pathways were screened based on GO and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes analyses.CLD might alleviate the inflammatory response and improve lung injury to treat COVID-19 through interleukin 17 signaling,T helper cell 17 differentiation,tumor necrosis factor signaling,and hypoxia inducible factor-1 signaling.Besides,molecular docking indicated that beta-sitosterol,kaempferol,and stigmasterol were the top three candidates in CLD with the highest affinity to SARS-CoV-2 and ACE2.Conclusion:Our study identifies the potential mechanisms of CLD on COVID-19 and beta-sitosterol,kaempferol,and stigmasterol may be the key compounds that exert antiviral effects against SARS-CoV-2.

Effect and mechanism of Qingre Huashi decoction on drug-resistant Helicobacter pylori

BACKGROUND Helicobacter pylori(HP),the most common pathogenic microorganism in stomach,can induce inflammatory reactions in the gastric mucosa,causing chronic gastritis and even gastric cancer.HP infection affects over 4.4 billion people globally,with a worldwide infection rate of up to 50%.The multidrug resistance of HP poses a serious challenge to eradication.It has been monstrated that compared to bismuth quadruple therapy,Qingre Huashi decoction(QHD)combined with triple therapy exhibits comparable eradication rates but with a lower incidence of adverse reactions;in addition,QHD directly inhibit and kill HP in vitro.METHODS In this study,12 HP strains were isolated in vitro after biopsy during gastroscopy of HP-infected patients.In vitro,the minimum inhibitory concentration(MIC)values for clinical HP strains and biofilm quantification were determined through the E-test method and crystal violet staining,respectively.The most robust biofilm-forming strain of HP was selected,and QHD was evaluated for its inhibitory and bactericidal effects on the strain with strong biofilm formation.This assessment was performed using agar dilution,E-test,killing dynamics,and transmission electron microscopy(TEM).The study also explored the impact of QHD on antibiotic resistance in these HP strains with strong biofilm formation.Crystalline violet method,scanning electron microscopy,laser confocal scanning microscopy,and(p)ppGpp chromatographic identification were employed to evaluate the effect of QHD on biofilm in strong biofilm-forming HP strains.The effect of QHD on biofilm and efflux pump-related gene expression was evaluated by quantitative polymerase chain reaction.Non-targeted metabolomics with UHPLC-MS/MS was used to identify potential metabolic pathways and biomarkers which were different between the NC and QHD groups.RESULTS HP could form biofilms of different degrees in vitro,and the intensity of formation was associated with the drug resistance of the strain.QHD had strong bacteriostatic and bactericidal effects on HP,with MICs of 32-64 mg/mL.QHD could inhibit the biofilm formation of the strong biofilm-forming HP strains,disrupt the biofilm structure,lower the accumulation of(p)ppGpp,decrease the expression of biofilm-related genes including LuxS,Spot,glup(HP1174),NapA,and CagE,and reduce the expression of efflux pump-related genes such as HP0605,HP0971,HP1327,and HP1489.Based on metabolomic analysis,QHD induced oxidative stress in HP,enhanced metabolism,and potentially inhibited relevant signaling pathways by upregulating adenosine monophosphate(AMP),thereby affecting HP growth,metabolism,and protein synthesis.CONCLUSION QHD exerts bacteriostatic and bactericidal effects on HP,and reduces HP drug resistance by inhibiting HP biofilm formation,destroying its biofilm structure,inhibiting the expression of biofilm-related genes and efflux pump-related genes,enhancing HP metabolism,and activating AMP in HP.

Network pharmacology study and in vitro experimental validation of Xiaojianzhong decoction against gastric cancer

BACKGROUND Cancer is one of the most serious threats to human health worldwide.Conventional treatments such as surgery and chemotherapy are associated with some drawbacks.In recent years,traditional Chinese medicine treatment has been increasingly advocated by patients and attracted attention from clinicians,and has become an indispensable part of the comprehensive treatment for gastric cancer.AIM To investigate the mechanism of Xiaojianzhong decoction(XJZ)in the treatment of gastric cancer(GC)by utilizing network pharmacology and experimental validation,so as to provide a theoretical basis for later experimental research.METHODS We analyzed the mechanism and targets of XJZ in the treatment of GC through network pharmacology and bioinformatics.Subsequently,we verified the impact of XJZ treatment on the proliferative ability of GC cells through CCK-8,apoptosis,cell cycle,and clone formation assays.Additionally,we performed Western blot analysis and real-time quantitative PCR to assess the protein and mRNA expression of the core proteins.RESULTS XJZ mainly regulates IL6,PTGS2,CCL2,MMP9,MMP2,HMOX1,and other target genes and pathways in cancer to treat GC.The inhibition of cell viability,the increase of apoptosis,the blockage of the cell cycle at the G0/G1 phase,and the inhibition of the ability of cell clone formation were observed in AGS and HGC-27 cells after XJZ treatment.In addition,XJZ induced a decrease in the mRNA expression of IL6,PTGS2,MMP9,MMP2,and CCL2,and an increase in the mRNA expression of HOMX1.XJZ significantly inhibited the expression of IL6,PTGS2,MMP9,MMP2,and CCL2 proteins and promoted the expression of the heme oxygenase-1 protein.CONCLUSION XJZ exerts therapeutic effects against GC through multiple components,multiple targets,and multiple pathways.Our findings provide a new idea and scientific basis for further research on the molecular mechanisms underlying the therapeutic effects of XJZ in the treatment of GC.

Linggui Zhugan Decoction Improves High Glucose-Induced Autophagy in Podocytes

Objective To explore the influence of Linggui Zhugan Decoction(LGZGD) on high glucose induced podocyte autophagy.Methods LGZGD containing serum was prepared by intragastric administation of 4.2 g/kg(low dose), 8.4 g/kg(medium dose), and 12.6 g/kg(high dose) LGZGD into SD rats respectively. MPC5 and AB8/13 podocyte cells were treated with 60 mmol/L glucose to establish diabetic nephropathy podocyte model in vitro. Both podocytes were divided into control group, high glucose group, low dose LGZGD group, medium dose LGZGD group, and high dose LGZGD group, respectively. For the three LGZGD groups, before LGZGD intervention, podocytes were treated with 60 mmol/L glucose for 3 days. After treated with LGZGD containing serum, cells were collected to analyze cell migration using Transwell assay, proliferation using CCK8, apoptosis and cell cycle using flow cytometry, autophagosome formation using transmission electron microscopy, and expression levels of Beclin-1, Atg5, LC3II/I, and P62 proteins using Western blot.Results Compared with the control group, the proliferation and migration of MPC5 and AB8/13 cells in the high glucose group slightly decreased, whereas these parameters restored after intervention with low and medium concentrations of LGZGD, with the medium dose LGZGD having the better effect(P < 0.05). Flow cytometry showed that the medium dose LGZGD group had a significantly lower apoptosis rate(P < 0.05) and higher survival rate(P > 0.05) compared to the high dose LGZGD group. High glucose arrested podocytes in G1 phase, whereas LGZGD shifted podocytes from being predominant in G1 phase to G2 phase. High dose LGZGD significanly reduced high glucose-increased autophagosome formation in both podocytes(P < 0.05). Western blot analysis showed that Beclin-1, Atg5, LC3II/I, and P62 expressions were increased in MPC5 cells treated with high glucose and reversed after adminstration of low and medium doses of LGZGD(P < 0.05).Conclusion LGZGD reduced apoptosis and enhanced autophagy in high glucose treated podocytes via regulating Beclin-1/LC3II/I/Atg5 expression.

Clinical Study of Shentong Zhuyu Decoction Combined with Massage Therapy in the Treatment of Exertional Chronic Lumbar Muscle Strain

[Objectives]To explore the effects of Shentong Zhuyu decoction combined with massage therapy in the treatment of exertional chronic lumbar muscle strain.[Methods]Sixty-four cases of exertional chronic lumbar muscle strain were randomly divided into two groups(32 cases each group).The patients in the control group only took celecoxib capsules,and those in the treatment group additionally took Shentong Zhuyu decoction combined with massage therapy.TCM syndrome score,lumbar function,hemorrheology index and clinical effect were compared between the two groups before and after treatment.[Results]After treatment,the TCM syndrome scores of lumbar distension/dull pain,tingling-like lumbago,adverse lateral turn,body weight loss,dark purple tongue,slow or astringent pulse,and Oswestry disability index(ODI)score in the treatment group were lower than those in the control group,and the levels of plasma viscosity,red blood cell aggregation index,platelet aggregation rate(PAG)and fibrinogen(Fib)were lower than those in the control group,showing statistical significance(P<0.05).The overall clinical effect distribution of the treatment group was better than that of the control group,and the difference was statistically significant(P<0.05).[Conclusions]Shentong Zhuyu decoction combined with massage therapy can effectively relieve the symptoms of patients with lumbago and improve the lumbar mobility function and hemorrheology,with obvious therapeutic effects in the treatment of exertional chronic lumbar muscle strain.

Mechanism of Wendan decoction in preventing obesity by regulating multiple signal pathway networks based on gene promoter methylation

Objective:To investigate the potential mechanism of Wendan decoction in obesity by screening target genes with promoter region methylation changes and constructing a multiple signaling pathways network based on promoter methylation.Methods:The methylation degree of Itgad,Col8a1,Adra2b,Jund,Rab2a,Wnt8b,Fzd9,B4galt7,Pik3cd,Creb1,Stard8,and Mmp1 in the abdominal adipose tissue of obese rats was determined using the Agena MassARRAY system.Western blot was performed to assess protein expression levels.Target genes were identified based on the methylation degree in the promoter region and protein expression.Enrichment analysis of signaling pathways was conducted to identify relevant target genes and obtain a multiple signaling pathway network associated with obesity.Core and terminal effector molecules in the pathway networks were selected as research targets for reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction(RT-PCR)analysis.Results:Four genes(Adra2b,Creb1,Itgad,and Pik3cd)showed a degree of promoter methylation consistent with their respective protein expression levels.Among them,Adra2b,Creb1,and Pik3cd expression increased,while that of Itgad decreased.Enrichment analysis revealed that Creb1 and Pik3cd were involved in 6 signaling pathways related to obesity:tumor necrosis factor(TNF)signaling pathway,growth hormone synthesis/secretion and action,adenosine 5'-monophosphate-activated protein kinase(AMPK)signaling pathway,relaxin signaling pathway,cyclic nucleotide(cAMP)signaling pathway,and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/protein kinase B(PI3K/Akt)signaling pathway.Subsequently,a multiple signaling pathways network was constructed based on promoter methylation.Key molecules including protein kinase B(AKT),mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1(mTORC1),and unc-51 like autophagy activating kinase 1(ULK1),as well as terminal effector molecules interleukin-1β(IL-1β),interleukin-6(IL-6),and chemokine(C-X-C motif)ligand 2(CXCL2)were selected as research targets.Wendan decoction decreased the expressions of AKT,mTORC1,IL-1β,IL-6,and CXCL2 while up-regulating ULK1 expression.Conclusion:The mechanism of Wendan decoction in preventing obesity involves the regulation of multiple signaling pathways through the control of Creb1 and Pik3cd gene promoter methylation.However,the associated multi-path gene regulation mechanism in preventing obesity is complex.Thus,further exploration is needed to elucidate the role of methylation changes in this mechanism.

Pharmacodynamic Experiment of Dachengqi Decoction and Separated Decoction on Incomplete Intestinal Obstruction in Rats

[Objectives]To investigate the effect and mechanism of Dachengqi Decoction and separated decoction on incomplete intestinal obstruction in rats.[Methods]80 healthy SD rats were selected to establish incomplete intestinal obstruction model by silk ligation.The dosage was 20 mL/kg for 3 d,and the damage index of ileocecal mucosa was analyzed;the morphology of ileocecal mucosa was observed by HE staining;the serum levels of IL-1α,IL-1β,IL-6,IL-18,Ach,NO,ET,IL-1,TNF-αand ultra-micro Na+-K+-ATPase were detected by ELISA.[Results]Compared with the model group,the mucosal damage index of Dachengqi Decoction and each separated decoction group decreased significantly(P<0.05);compared with the normal group and sham operation group,the serum level of IL-1,IL-6,TNF-αand other factors in the model group increased significantly(P<0.05);compared with the model group,the serum IL-1,IL-6 and TNF-αsecretion levels of rats in Dachengqi Decoction group and separated decoction group decreased(P<0.01).[Conclusions]Dachengqi Decoction and each separated decoction can effectively improve intestinal tissue pathological damage in the incomplete intestinal obstruction model rats,and reduce the inflammatory reaction in the rat body.

Introduction of Western Medicines into China and Improvement on Decoctions during Modern China

During the late Qing dynasty(1840 A.D.-1912 A.D.),a large quantity of Western medicines entered China,which continuously impacted the traditional Chinese medicine(TCM)market and revealed the shortcomings of Chinese medicines.Some personages in the TCM community followed the trend of learning from the West,and attempted to reform TCM,with the improvement on decoction becoming an important aspect of this effort.Through debates and trials,the improvement on decoction underwent three stages of conceptual evolution:“taking Chinese medicines as the foundation and referring to the dosage forms of Western medicines”,“introducing Western techniques to serve the preparation of decoctions”and“integrating the theories of TCM and Western medicine to improve decoctions”.The study highlights the effective complementarity between modern TCM and Western medicine in the field of pharmacy,and provides valuable experience and support for the reevaluation of the value of TCM in contemporary society.

iTRAQ-based proteomics reveals the mechanism of action of Yinlai decoction in treating pneumonia in mice consuming a high-calorie diet

Objective:To uncover the underlying mechanisms of action of the Yinlai decoction on high-calorie dietinduced pneumonia through proteomics analysis.Methods:Based on the Gene Expression Omnibus(GEO)database,lung tissue samples from normal and high-fat diet(HFD)fed mice in the GSE16377 dataset were selected as test cohorts to identify differentially expressed genes and conduct bioinformatics analyses.In the animal experiments,mice were randomly divided into the control(N),high-calorie diet pneumonia(M),and Yinlai decoction treatment(Y)groups.Mice in the M group received high-calorie feed and a 0.5 mg/mL lipopolysaccharide solution spray for 30 min for 3 d.The mice in the Y group were intragastrically administered 2 mL/10 g Yinlai decoction twice daily for 3 d.Pathological evaluation of the lung tissue was performed.Differentially expressed proteins(DEPs)in the lung tissue were identified using quantitative proteomics and bioinformatics analyses.The drug-target relationships between Yinlai decoction and core DEPs in the lung tissue were verified using AutoDock Vina and Molecular Graphics Laboratory(MGL)Tools.DEPs were verified by western blot.Results:GEO data mining showed that an HFD altered oxidative phosphorylation in mouse lung tissue.The Yinlai decoction alleviated pathological damage to lung tissue and pneumonia in mice that were fed a high-calorie diet.A total of 47 DEPs were identified between the Y and M groups.Enrichment analysis revealed their association with energy metabolism pathways such as the tricarboxylic acid cycle(TCA)and oxidative phosphorylation.The protein-protein interaction network revealed that Atp5a1,Pdha1,and Sdha were the target proteins mediating the therapeutic effects of Yinlai decoction.Molecular docking results suggested that the mechanism of the therapeutic effect of Yinlai decoction involves the binding of brassinolide,praeruptorin B,chrysoeriol,and other components in Yinlai decoction to Atp5a1.Conclusion:The Yinlai decoction alleviated lung tissue damage and pneumonia in mice that were fed a high-calorie diet by regulating the TCA and oxidative phosphorylation.Our study highlights the importance of a healthy diet for patients with pneumonia and provides a scientific basis for the prevention and treatment of pneumonia through dietary adjustments.

Meta-analysis of the efficacy and safety of Bushen Huoxue decoction in the treatment of Osteoporosis

Objective:To systematically evaluate the long-term efficacy of Bushen Huoxue Decoction combined with vertebroplasty(PVP or PKP)in the treatment of osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures(OVCF),in order to provide evidence-based reference for clinical application.Methods:To ensure the novelty of research data,a computer search was conducted between 2017 and February 2023 to publicly publish all randomized controlled studies and clinical trials at home and abroad on the treatment of OVCF with Bushen Huoxue Decoction combined with vertebroplasty published in CNKI,Wanfang,Vip,PubMed,CBM,and Cochrane libraries.Two researchers independently conducted literature screening and data extraction,evaluated the quality of randomized controlled trials included one by one according to the Cochrane collaboration network standards,and conducted a meta statistical analysis using RevMan5.3 for studies that met the inclusion criteria.Results:A total of 684 patients were included in 7 randomized controlled trials,including 342 patients in the observation group and 342 patients in the control group,with a ratio of 1:1;The meta-analysis results showed that in the observation group,the overall effective rate[RR=1.30,95%CI(1.14,1.47),P<0.001],visual analog pain(VAS)score[SMD=1.19,95%CI(0.77,1.61),P<0.0001],bone mineral density score[SMD=1.09,95%CI(0.15,2.04),P=0.02],COQOL score[SMD=0.99,95%CI(0.68,1.30),P<0.00001],OPG score[SMD=0.48,95%CI(0.18,0.77),P=0.002]The RANKL score[SMD=1.33,95%CI(1.00,1.65),P<0.0001]was significantly superior to the control group,with statistically significant differences.There was no significant difference in the Oswestry Disability Index(ODI)score[SMD=0.27,95%CI(-0.03,0.57),P=0.08],Cobb score[SMD=1.52,95%CI(-1.05,4.09),P=0.25],and vertebral height score[SMD=0.43,95%CI(-0.14,1.01),P=0.14].Conclusion:The results show that Bushen Huoxue Decoction combined with vertebroplasty has significant advantages in improving bone mineral density and alleviating pain in patients after OVCF,which is significantly superior to using OVCF alone.

Differential expression of miRNA in THP-1-derived foam cell model induced by drug-containing serum of Yimaijiangzhi decoction

Objective: To investigate the differential expression of miRNA and related biological functions and signaling pathways after the intervention of the THP-1-derived foam cell model with the drug-containing serum of Yimaijiangzhi Decoction. Methods: The experiment was divided into macrophage group, foam cell model group and Yimaijiangzhi drug-containing serum group. THP-1 cells were induced into macrophages by Fopol ester, and induced differentiated macrophages were given ox-LDL to establish foam cell model, and Yimaijiangzhi decoction rat serum was used to intervene the foam cells. Total RNA was extracted from cells in each group for miRNA sequencing, differential expression of miRNA was screened, and relevant target genes were predicted for GO analysis and KEGG analysis, protein interaction network and miRNA-target gene interaction network were established, and RT-qPCR was used to verify the possible signaling pathways for improving atherosclerosis. Result: The difference miRNA between blank group and model group was hsa-miR-302c-3p, hsa-miR-302d-3p, hsa- mir-30d-3p, hsa-mir-3189-3p, hsa-mir-374b-5p, hsa-mir-423-5p, hsa-mir-423-5p, and hsa- mir-4781-3p, hsa-mir-663a;The miRNAs of model group and Yimaijiangzhi drug-containing serum group were hsa-mir-3150a-3p, hsa-mir-7704, hsa-mir-887-3p, hsa-mir-150-5p, hsa- mir-423-5p, hsa-mir-374c-3p, hsa-mir-374c-3p, hsa-mir-374b-5p;The difference of miRNAs prediction target genes between model group and Yimaijiangzhi drug-containing serum group showed that the miRNA prediction target genes were mainly enriched in MAPK signaling pathway, ErbB signaling pathway, Hippo signaling pathway, Wnt signaling pathway and other signaling pathways. SCN1A, PRKACA, MECP2, EIF4E, SRSF1, MBNL1, PRKCA, PPARGC1A may be the potential key targets for the effect of the drug-containing serum of Yimaijiangzhi Decoction on THP-1-derived foam cells. Conclusion: hsa-mir-374c-3p, hsa- mir-423-5p, and hsa-mir-374b-5p are important miRNAs that the drug-containing serum of Yimaijiangzhi Decoction acts on foam cells. The significantly differentially expressed mirnas and significantly enriched related signaling pathways may provide new ideas for the diagnosis and treatment of atherosclerosis.

Evaluation of the famous classic formula Sanhua decoction based on network pharmacology and multi-component quantitative analysis

Background:Sanhua decoction has significant effects in the treatment of stroke.The study of the Sanhua decoction material benchmark was carried out to analyze the value transfer relationship between the Chinese herbal pieces and the substance benchmark.Methods:Network pharmacology was employed to investigate the potential active components and molecular mechanisms of Sanhua decoction in the treatment of stroke.15 batches of Sanhua decoction lyophilized powder were prepared using traditional formulas and subjected to high-performance liquid chromatography analysis to generate fingerprints of the Sanhua decoction substance benchmarks.Then,a multi-component quantitative analysis method was established,allowing for the simultaneous determination of ten components,to study the transfer of quantity values between pieces and substance benchmarks.Results:60 active ingredients were screened from Sanhua decoction by network pharmacology,of which gallic acid,magnolol honokiol,physcion,and aloe-emodin may have a greater effect than other active components.63 key targets and 134 pathways were predicted as the potential mechanism of Sanhua decoction in treating stroke.The fingerprint similarity of the Sanhua decoction substance benchmarks was found to be good among the 15 batches,confirming the 19 common peaks.The content of the 10 components was basically consistent.The components’transfer rates were within 30%of their respective means.Conclusions:This study provided a comprehensive and reliable strategy for the quality evaluation of Sanhua decoction substance benchmarks and held significant importance in improving its application value.

A Preliminary Mechanism Study on the Treatment of Rabbit Bone Defect Bone Nonunion with Xuduan Jiegu Decoction

Objective: To investigate the curative effect and mechanism of Xuduan Jiegu Decoction in the treatment of rabbit bone defect bone nonunion. Methods: The experiment was randomly divided into three groups;1) The control group that was given neither the modeling nor the treatment;2) The model group that was not given the treatment after the operation to model a bone defect;3) The treatment group that was given intermittent bone decoction after modeling (i.e., the operation), the dose was 105 g/piece, twice a day, for 4 consecutive weeks. For the three groups, Anterolateral X-rays of the left forearm were taken 14 days after the surgery to observe the bone nonunion healing with pretherapy and post-treatment. The expression levels of TGF-β, BMP-2 and VEGF in the blood of each group were measured by ELISA at 4 weeks after treatment. The peri-fracture histopathological changes between each group of pretherapy and post-treatment were evaluated by using tissue sections. Results: Compared with the control group, there was no obvious healing in the model group on the 14th day after the operation. Compared with the model group, the treatment group was treated with Xuduan Jiegu Decoction, and there was a trend of healing and callus formation on the 14th day. HE staining showed that the cells in the control group were closely arranged without any pathological changes. In the model group, the tissues around the fracture end were arranged loosely, and the cells were vacuolated and infiltrated by inflammatory cells. Compared with the model group, the peripheral cell arrangement was better and the peripheral lesions were reduced in the treatment group. The content of TGF-β, BMP-2 and VEGF in blood detected by ELISA was significantly higher in the treatment group than in the control group and the model group, with statistical significance. Conclusion: Xuduan Jiegu Decoction can promote callus formation and accelerate fracture healing in rabbit radius bone defect, and the mechanism of promoting fracture healing is related to the increases of TGF-β, BMP-2 and VEGF levels.

Jianpi Gushen Huayu decoction ameliorated diabetic nephropathy through modulating metabolites in kidney,and inhibiting TLR4/NF-κB/NLRP3 and JNK/P38 pathways

BACKGROUND Jianpi Gushen Huayu Decoction(JPGS)has been used to clinically treat diabetic nephropathy(DN)for many years.However,the protective mechanism of JPGS in treating DN remains unclear.AIM To evaluate the therapeutic effects and the possible mechanism of JPGS on DN.METHODS We first evaluated the therapeutic potential of JPGS on a DN mouse model.We then investigated the effect of JPGS on the renal metabolite levels of DN mice using non-targeted metabolomics.Furthermore,we examined the effects of JPGS on c-Jun N-terminal kinase(JNK)/P38-mediated apoptosis and the inflammatory responses mediated by toll-like receptor 4(TLR4)/nuclear factor-kappa B(NF-κB)/NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain containing 3(NLRP3).RESULTS The ameliorative effects of JPGS on DN mice included the alleviation of renal injury and the control of inflammation and oxidative stress.Untargeted metabolomic analysis revealed that JPGS altered the metabolites of the kidneys in DN mice.A total of 51 differential metabolites were screened.Pathway analysis results indicated that nine pathways significantly changed between the control and model groups,while six pathways significantly altered between the model and JPGS groups.Pathways related to cysteine and methionine metabolism;alanine,tryptophan metabolism;aspartate and glutamate metabolism;and riboflavin metabolism were identified as the key pathways through which JPGS affects DN.Further experimental validation showed that JPGS treatment reduced the expression of TLR4/NF-κB/NLRP3 pathways and JNK/P38 pathway-mediated apoptosis related factors.CONCLUSION JPGS could markedly treat mice with streptozotocin(STZ)-induced DN,which is possibly related to the regulation of several metabolic pathways found in kidneys.Furthermore,JPGS could improve kidney inflammatory responses and ameliorate kidney injuries in DN mice via the TLR4/NF-κB/NLRP3 pathway and inhibit JNK/P38 pathwaymediated apoptosis in DN mice.

Exploring Xiaojianzhong decoction's potential in gastric cancer treatment:Integrative insights and experimental validation

Gastric cancer(GC)remains a formidable global health concern with significant morbidity and mortality rates,despite the fact that numerous advances have been made to improve conventional therapies.Xiaojianzhong decoction(XJZ),a traditional Chinese medicine,has garnered academic attention as a multicomponent,multitarget approach to managing GC.The present editorial explores the potential of XJZ in the treatment of GC through a comprehensive analysis of network pharmacology and experimental validation.Network pharmacology was used to identify key molecular targets of XJZ,including interleukin 6,prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase 2,and matrix metalloproteinase 9,and in vitro experiments were used to confirm the efficacy of XJZ in inhibiting cell proliferation,inducing apoptosis,and modulating gene expression associated with GC progression.This editorial highlights XJZ as a promising therapeutic strategy for GC and indicates a need for further clinical exploration and validation of its efficacy.

Chaiqin Chengqi Decoction as an adjuvant treatment for mild/moderately severe hypertriglyceridemic acute pancreatitis: A retrospective study

Hypertriglyceridemia is the third leading cause of acute pancreatitis(AP),and its incidence is increasing.Due to its relatively insidious etiology,it is easy to be ignored in the early stages.In China,Chaiqin Chengqi Decoction(CQCQD)has long been employed for treating AP.AIM To evaluate the effectiveness of CQCQD in patients diagnosed with mild/moderately severe hypertriglyceridemic AP(HTG-AP).METHODS In this study,the clinical data of 39 patients with HTG-AP admitted from January 2019 to November 2022 were collected.The changes of blood lipids,gastrointestinal symptoms,and abdominal pain before and after treatment were analyzed and compared between the two groups.RESULTS Twenty patients were treated with the conventional HTG-AP regimen,and 19 patients were additionally treated with CQCQD.After receiving treatment,the triglycerides(TG)level of the CQCQD group was lower than that of the CQCQD group(3.14±0.25 mmol/L vs 4.96±0.47 mmol/L,P<0.01).After 3 d of treatment,the patients in the CQCQD group had more bowel movements than the control group(2.51±0.25 times vs 1.00±0.17 times,P=0.01).The gastrointestinal function of most patients returned to normal,and the acute gastrointestinal injury score was significantly lower than that of the control group(0.11±0.07 vs 0.42±0.11,P<0.01).CONCLUSION In patients with HTG-AP,CQCQD can significantly reduce the TG level,shorten the recovery time of defecation,significantly improve the gastrointestinal function.

A systematic study of Erzhu Erchen decoction against damp-heat internalized type 2 diabetes based on data mining and experimental verification

Background:Erzhu Erchen decoction(EZECD),which is based on Erchen decoction and enhanced with Atractylodes lancea and Atractylodes macrocephala,is widely used for the treatment of dampness and heat(The clinical manifestations of Western medicine include thirst,inability to drink more,diarrhea,yellow urine,red tongue,et al.)internalized disease.Nevertheless,the mechanism of EZECD on damp-heat internalized Type 2 diabetes(T2D)remains unknown.We employed data mining,pharmacology databases and experimental verification to study how EZECD treats damp-heat internalized T2D.Methods:The main compounds or genes of EZECD and damp-heat internalized T2D were obtained from the pharmacology databases.Succeeding,the overlapped targets of EZECD and damp-heat internalized T2D were performed by the Gene Ontology,kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes analysis.And the compound-disease targets-pathway network were constructed to obtain the hub compound.Moreover,the hub genes and core related pathways were mined with weighted gene co-expression network analysis based on Gene Expression Omnibus database,the capability of hub compound and genes was valid in AutoDock 1.5.7.Furthermore,and violin plot and gene set enrichment analysis were performed to explore the role of hub genes in damp-heat internalized T2D.Finally,the interactions of hub compound and genes were explored using Comparative Toxicogenomics Database and quantitative polymerase chain reaction.Results:First,herb-compounds-genes-disease network illustrated that the hub compound of EZECD for damp-heat internalized T2D could be quercetin.Consistently,the hub genes were CASP8,CCL2,and AHR according to weighted gene co-expression network analysis.Molecular docking showed that quercetin could bind with the hub genes.Further,gene set enrichment analysis and Gene Ontology represented that CASP8,or CCL2,is negatively involved in insulin secretion response to the TNF or lipopolysaccharide process,and AHR or CCL2 positively regulated lipid and atherosclerosis,and/or including NOD-like receptor signaling pathway,and TNF signaling pathway.Ultimately,the quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blotting analysis showed that quercetin could down-regulated the mRNA and protein experssion of CASP8,CCL2,and AHR.It was consistent with the results in Comparative Toxicogenomics Database databases.Conclusion:These results demonstrated quercetin could inhibit the expression of CASP8,CCL2,AHR in damp-heat internalized T2D,which improves insulin secretion and inhibits lipid and atherosclerosis,as well as/or including NOD-like receptor signaling pathway,and TNF signaling pathway,suggesting that EZECD may be more effective to treat damp-heat internalized T2D.

Sequential experimental observation on the curative effect of Yingbupu decoction of Zhuang medicine on stage I and II acute kidney injury

Objective:To observe the clinical efficacy of the Zhuang medicine Yingbupu decoction on stage I and II acute kidney injury through sequential test.Methods:The open one-way qualitative response sequential design of experiments was adopted,and the patients with AKI in phase I and II who met the inclusion criteria were divided into the treatment group and the control group according to the order of hospitalization by random number table.On the basis of basic treatment,the treatment group was treated with Zhuang medicine Yingbupu decoction,and the control group was treated with Jinshuibao tablet.The clinical efficacy,TCM syndrome score,24 h urine volume,serum creatinine(Scr),microalbumin in urine(mAlb),neutrophil Gelatinase related lipid delivery albumin(NGAL)of the two groups were compared,and the adverse reactions and complications of the two groups were observed.Results:After 14 d of treatment,when the treatment group reached the 10th case,the experimental line contacted the upper bound U-line and reached the experimental standard to terminate the experiment.The effective hypothesis was accepted,and it was believed that the Zhuang medicine Yingbupu decoction had a therapeutic effect on stage I and II AKI.The conclusion was drawn that the treatment group received the Zhuang medicine Yingbupu.The clinical effective rate and improvement days were similar between the two groups,and there was no significant difference(P>0.05).However,the integral value of traditional Chinese medicine syndrome in the treatment group was lower than that in the control group(P<0.05),After treatment,the Scr,mAlb,and NGAL levels of patients in both groups were lower than before treatment(P<0.05).After treatment,the Scr,mAlb,and NGAL values in the treatment group were significantly lower than those in the control group(P<0.05).After treatment,the 24-hour urine volume in both groups was higher than that before treatment,and the values in the treatment group were significantly higher than those in the control group(P<0.05).During the treatment period,there were no significant adverse reactions or complications in either group.Conclusion:The Zhuang medicine Yingbupu decoction is effective in treating stage I and II AKI,and the Zhuang medicine Yingbupu can significantly improve the symptoms and quality of life of patients with stage I and II AKI.Its improvement of renal function is better than that of Jinshuibao tablets,and its safety is good.

Clinical intervention effect of Xuefu Zhuyu decoction on chronic heart failure complicated with depression

BACKGROUND The diagnosis and treatment of depression in patients with chronic heart failure(CHF)is challenging,with no ideal treatment at present.AIM To analyze the clinical intervention effect of Xuefu Zhuyu decoction(XFZYD)on CHF complicated with depression.METHODS The study cohort comprised 116 patients with CHF complicated with depression who received treatment from July 2020 to July 2023,of which 55 received Western medicine(control group)and 61 received XFZYD(research group).Data on clinical effectiveness,traditional Chinese medicine(TCM)syndrome score,cardiac function,negative emotions,and serum inflammatory factors,were collected for comparative analyses.RESULTS Compared with the control group,the research group had an evidently higher total effective rate.Furthermore,there were marked reductions in TCM symptom score,left ventricular end-diastolic diameter,left ventricular end-systolic diameter,Self-Rating Depression Scale,Hamilton Depression Scale,high-sensitivity C-reactive protein,monocyte chemoattractant protein-1,and matrix metalloproteinase-9 in the research group after treatment,and these were lower than the corresponding values in the control group.Left ventricular ejection fraction was increased and higher in the research group compared with the control group after treatment.CONCLUSION Our findings conclusively proved that XFZYD was considerably superior to Western medicine for treating CHF complicated with depression because it significantly alleviated patients’symptoms,improved cardiac function,relieved negative emotions,and reduced the levels of serum inflammatory factors.

Application and mechanisms of Sanhua Decoction in the treatment of cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury

Cerebral ischemia-reperfusion is a process in which the blood supply to the brain is temporarily interrupted and subsequently restored.However,it is highly likely to lead to further aggravation of pathological damage to ischemic tissues or the nervous system.,and has accordingly been a focus of extensive clinical research.As a traditional Chinese medicinal formulation,Sanhua Decoction has gradually gained importance in the treatment of cerebrovascular diseases.Its main constituents include Citrus aurantium,Magnolia officinalis,rhubarb,and Qiangwu,which are primarily used to regulate qi.In the treatment of neurological diseases,the therapeutic effects of the Sanhua Decoction are mediated via different pathways,including antioxidant,anti-inflammatory,and neurotransmitter regu-latory pathways,as well as through the protection of nerve cells and a reduction in cerebral edema.Among the studies conducted to date,many have found that the application of Sanhua Decoction in the treatment of neurological diseases has clear therapeutic effects.In addition,as a natural treatment,the Sanhua Decoction has received widespread attention,given that it is safer and more effective than traditional Western medicines.Consequently,research on the mechanisms of action and efficacy of the Sanhua Decoctions in the treatment of cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury is of considerable significance.In this paper,we describe the pathogenesis of cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury and review the current status of its treatment to examine the therapeutic mechanisms of action of the Sanhua Decoction.We hope that the findings of the research presented herein will contribute to a better understanding of the efficacy of this formulation in the treatment of cerebral ischemia-reperfusion,and provide a scientific basis for its application in clinical practice.