Herb pair of Huangqi-Danggui exerts anti-tumor immunity to breast cancer by upregulating PIK3R1

Background:According to traditional Chinese medicine(TCM),drugs supplementing the vital energy,Qi,can eliminate tumors by restoring host immunity.The objective of this study is to investigate the underlying immune mechanisms of anti-tumor activity associated with Qi-supplementing herbs,specifically the paired use of Huangqi and Danggui.Methods:Analysis of compatibility regularity was conducted to screen the combination of Qi-supplementing TCMs.Using the MTT assay and a transplanted tumor mice model,the anti-tumor effects of combination TCMs were investigated in vitro and in vivo.High content analysis and flow cytometry were then used to evaluate cellular immunity,followed by network pharmacology and molecular docking to dissect the significant active compounds and potential mechanisms.Finally,the anti-tumor activity and the mechanism of the active ingredients were verified by molecular experiments.Results:There is an optimal combination of Huangqi and Danggui that,administered as an aqueous extract,can activate immunity to suppress tumor and is more effective than each drug on its own in vitro and in vivo.Based on network pharmacology analysis,PIK3R1 is the core target for the anti-tumor immunity activity of combined Huangqi and Danggui.Molecular docking analysis shows 6 components of the combined Danggui and Huangqi extract(quercetin,jaranol,isorhamnetin,kaempferol,calycosin,and suchilactone)that bind to PIK3R1.Jaranol is the most important component against breast cancer.The suchilactone/jaranol combination and,especially,the suchilactone/kaempferol combination are key for immunity enhancement and the anti-tumor effects of the extract.Conclusions:The combination of Huangqi and Danggui can activate immunity to suppress breast cancer and is more effective than the individual drugs alone.

Evaluation of the Efficacy of Auricular Acupoint Pressure Patch Combined with Modified Huangqi Decoction in Treating Diabetic Nephropathy

Objective:To explore the efficacy of auricular acupoint pressure patch combined with modified Huangqi Decoction in treating diabetic nephropathy.Methods:60 patients with diabetic nephropathy treated in our hospital from January 2021 to December 2022 were selected for this study.The patients were randomly divided into two groups using the random number table method,with 30 patients in each group.Among them,the control group was treated with conventional Western medicine,while the experimental group was treated with auricular acupoint pressure patches combined with modified Huangqi Decoction.The patients’fasting blood glucose(FPG),2-hour postprandial blood glucose(2hPG),glycated hemoglobin(HbA1c),urinary protein quantification,urea nitrogen(BUN),serum creatinine(SCr),and other indicators were detected and recorded before and after treatment.Results:Before treatment,there was no statistically significant difference in the FPG,the 2hPG,and the HbA1c between the two groups of patients(P>0.05);after treatment,the FPG,the 2hPG,and the HbA1c of the patients in the experimental group were significantly lower than those in the control group(P<0.05).Before treatment,there was no statistically significant difference in the urinary protein quantification,the BUN,and the SCr between the two groups of patients(P>0.05);after treatment,the urinary protein quantification,BUN,and SCr of the patients in the experimental group were significantly lower than those in the control group(P<0.05).The experimental group showed better improvement in symptoms such as fatigue,backache,and frequency of nocturia(P<0.05).Conclusion:Auricular acupoint pressure patch combined with modified Huangqi Decoction effectively treats diabetic nephropathy and it helps control blood sugar and renal function indicators and improve clinical symptoms,therefore improving the patients’quality of life.

Efficacy and safety of Huangqi Jianzhong decoction in the treatment of chronic atrophic gastritis:A meta-analysis

BACKGROUND Chronic atrophic gastritis is a persistent disorder of the digestive system where the gastric mucosa epithelium and glands undergo atrophy,leading to a decrease in their number and thinning of the gastric mucosa.It is worth noting that the prevalence of chronic atrophic gastritis is higher in China compared to the global average,and it is also considered a precancerous condition for gastric cancer.AIM To evaluate the efficacy of Huangqi Jianzhong decoction in treating chronic atrophic gastritis.Chronic atrophic gastritis is a persistent illness characterized by the progressive disappearance of healthy gastric glands due to repeated injury.Huangqi Jianzhong decoctions are widely used in China to treat chronic atrophic gastritis.However,there is limited scientific evidence regarding their efficacy in treating this illness.METHODS The present meta-analysis adhered to the PRISMA guidelines and used the Cochrane Collaboration methodology.We performed a comprehensive search for clinical trials investigating the use of Huangqi Jianzhong decoction in treating chronic atrophic gastritis published until January 2023.The risk of bias and the quality of the included studies were evaluated using the Cochrane Handbook guidelines.Finally,a meta-analysis was conducted using the RevMan 5.4 softRESULTS This study included a total of 13 articles,comprising 1269 samples.The meta-analysis was conducted on these 13 articles,yielding the following results:I2=0%,P=0.60,[RR=1.24,95%CI:1.18 to 1.30,P<0.00001].The forest plot analysis of the Helicobacter pylori clearance rate revealed I2=0%,P=0.36,[RR=1.20,95%CI:1.05 to 1.38,P=0.009].The forest plot of PG-I level showed I2=99%,P<0.00001,[MD=4.99,95%CI:-1.59 to 11.58,P=0.14].The forest plot of stomach pain demonstrated I2=54%,P=0.04,[MD=-0.63,95%CI:-0.68 to-0.58,P<0.00001].The forest plot of reflux indicated I2=82%,P=0.0009,[MD=-0.48,95%CI:-0.63 to-0.33,P<0.00001].The forest plot of recurrence rate exhibited I2=0%,P=0.92,[RR=0.15,95%CI:0.04 to 0.66,P=0.01].The forest plot of adverse reactions showed no heterogeneity in outcome data,[RR=1.07,95%CI:0.53 to 2.17,P=0.86].CONCLUSION This study demonstrated that Huangqi Jianzhong decoction improved various factors in adults with chronic atrophic gastritis.These factors included the total effective rate,Helicobacter pylori clearance rate,symptoms such as stomachache and acid reflux alleviation,and recurrence rates.

Huangqi Guizhi Wuwu Decoction for treating diabetic peripheral neuropathy：a meta-analysis of 16 randomized controlled trials

OBJECTIVE：This meta-analysis was performed to systematically assess the efficacy and safety of the Chinese herbal medicine Huangqi Guizhi Wuwu Decoction（HGWWD） for treating diabetic peripheral neuropathy.DATA SOURCES：Six electronic databases,including the Cochrane Library,MEDLINE database,Chinese Biomedical Database,Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure Database,Chinese Science and Technique Journals Database,and the Wanfang Database,were search ed on the internet for randomized controlled trials published up until 1 December 2015.The search terms included ＂Chinese herbal medicine＂,＂diabetic peripheral neuropathy＂ and ＂randomized controlled trials＂ in Chinese and in English.DATA SELECTION：We included randomized controlled trials using HGWWD/modified HGWWD for the treatment group,without restriction for the control group.We assessed literature quality in accordance with the Cochrane Review Handbook.A random or a fixed effects model was used to analyze outcomes using Rev Man 5.2 software.OUTCOME MEASURES：The primary outcomes were changes in symptoms and nerve conduction velocities.The secondary outcomeswere fasting blood glucose and hemorheological indexes.RESULTS：Sixteen randomized controlled trials,with a total of 1,173 patients,were included.Meta-analysis revealed that the efficacy of HGWWD for diabetic peripheral neuropathy was significantly superior compared with the control treatment（i.e.,control group）（risk ratio = 0.36,95% confidence interval（CI）：0.29–0.46,Z =8.33,P 〈 0.00001） Compared with the control group,there was an increase in median motor nerve conduction velocity（mean difference（MD） = 3.46,95%CI：1.88–5.04,Z = 4.30,P 〈 0.01） and median sensory nerve conduction velocity（MD = 3.30,95%CI：2.04–4.56,Z = 5.14,P 〈 0.01）.There was also an increase in peroneal motor nerve conduction velocity（MD = 3.22,95%CI：2.45–3.98,Z = 8.21,P 〈 0.01） and peroneal sensory nerve conduction velocity（MD = 3.05,95%CI：2.01–4.09,Z = 5.75,P 〈 0.01） in the treatment groups.No significant difference in fasting blood glucose was found between the treatment groups and the control groups（MD =-0.12,95%CI：-0.42–0.19,Z = 0.76,P = 0.45）.Plasma viscosity was significantly decreased after treatment（MD =-0.11,95%CI：-0.21 to-0.02,Z = 2.30,P = 0.02）.No significant difference in fibrinogen was detectable（MD =-0.53,95%CI：-1.28–0.22,Z = 1.38,P = 0.17）.Four trials reported that treatment groups experienced no adverse reactions.Adverse events were not mentioned in the other 12 trials.No trial reported the incidence of complications,quality of life outcomes,or health economics.CONCLUSION：HGWWD treatment improves diabetic neurologic symptoms and ameliorates nerve conduction velocities.Our study suggests that HGWWD may have significant therapeutic efficacy for the treatment of diabetic peripheral neuropathy.However,the methodological quality of the randomized controlled trials was generally low.Larger and better-designed randomized controlled trials are required to more reliably assess the clinical effectiveness of HGWWD.

Clinical Study of Jiawei Huangqi Guizhi Wuwu Decoction (加味黄芪桂枝五物汤) in Preventing and Treating Peripheral Neuro-sensory Toxicity Caused by Oxaliplatin

Objective： To evaluate the efficacy of Jiawei Huangqi Guizhi Wuwu Decoction （加味黄芪桂枝五物汤, JHGWD） in treating neuro-sensory toxicity induced by oxaliplatin. Methods： A randomized controlled self-crossover trial was performed. Thirty-one patients were randomly divided into AB and BA groups. Patients in A cycle belonged to the treated group, who were treated with chemotherapy combined with oxaliplatin plus JHGWD. Patients in B cycle belonged to the control group and were treated with chemotherapy alone. The peripheral neuro-sensory toxicity was observed and analyzed. Results： The main neurotoxicity was cold-induced paresthesia after the use of oxaliplatin, which included hyperaesthesia, chill, anaesthesia in the extremities, electrified sensation, formication, foreign body sensation and pain that might be exacerbated by exposure to cold. Twenty patients （64.5 % ） suffered from neuro-sensory toxicity in the treated group and 27 cases （87.1% ） in the control group. Symptoms were more serious and lasted longer in the control group than those in the treated group （P〈0.01）. Conclusion： JHGWD could prevent and reduce the occurence and intensity of acute peripheral neuro-sensory toxicity caused by oxaliplatin.

Protective effects and time course of Huangqi on early-stage free radical injury following brain trauma in rats

BACKGROUND： Huangqi （Astragalus mongholicus）, a Chinese herb, has already been included in the ＂Chinese Pharmacopoeia＂ for the treatment of ischemic cerebrovascular disease. Secondary injury following brain injury is associated with free radical production, and Huangqi possesses the ability to ameliorate free radical-mediated injury. OBJECTIVE： This study was designed to observe the correlation between anti-free-radical properties of Huangqi and early histological changes of brain tissues following traumatic brain injury. DESIGN, TIME AND SETTING： This study, a randomized, controlled, animal experiment, was performed from May 2006 to June 2007 at the Experimental Center of Science and Technology, School of Basic Science, Liaoning Medical University, Jinzhou City, Liaoning Province, China. MATERIALS： Healthy, adult, Sprague Dawley rats of either gender were included. Huangqi injection was purchased from Heilongjiang Provincial Zhenbaodao Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., China （National License Medical Number： Z23020781）. Na^＋-K^＋-adenosine triphosphatase （ATPase）, Ca^2＋-ATPase, and Mg^2＋-ATPase, as well as kits to measure superoxide dismutase （SOD） activity and malondialdehyde （MDA） content, were purchased from Nanjing Jiancheng Biological Reagent Company, China. METHODS： Seventy-two rats were randomly divided into three groups, with 24 rats in each group： （1） sham-operated group： rats were only exposed, but not injured; （2） model group： brain focal laceration rat models were established by free-falling. These groups were intraperitoneally injected with saline, once every 10 hours; （3） Huangqi group： rats were intraperitoneally injected with 4 mL/kg Huangqi （2 g/mL）, once every 10 hours, following brain focal laceration by free-falling. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES： Ultrastructural changes in brain tissue were observed under an electron microscope 24 hours after injury. The water content of brain tissue was measured using the dry-wet weight method. In addition, the activity of ATPase and SOD, as well as MDA content, was analyzed using biochemical indicators at 4, 24, and 48 hours after injury. RESULTS： All 72 rats were included in the final analysis. At 4, 24, and 48 hours after injury, ATPase activity was significantly reduced in the model and Huangqi groups than in the sham-operated group （P 〈 0.05）, and this was reduction was time-dependent. At four hours after injury, no significant difference in ATPase activity was detected between the Huangqi group and the model group （P 〉 0.05）. At 24 and 48 hours after injury, ATPase activity in the Huangqi group gradually decreased, but remained significantly greater than that in the model group （P 〈 0.05）. At four hours after injury, when compared with the sham-operated group, the MDA content in the model group significantly increased and remained at a high level, while SOD activity significantly decreased （P 〈 0.05）. In the Huangqi group, MDA content and SOD activity did not change at four hours after injury. However, MDA content significantly decreased, and SOD activity significantly increased, at 24 and 48 hours after injury, compared with the model group （P 〈 0.05）. Moreover, at 24 and 48 hours after injury, the water content of brain tissue was significantly lower in the Huangqi group than in the model group （P 〈 0.05）. Ultrastructural examination of cerebral cortical neurons revealed severe damage in the model group, compared to the sham-operated group, while only mild injury was observed in the Huangqi group. CONCLUSION： The protective effects of Huangqi against traumatic brain injury correlates with decreasing MDA content and increasing SOD activity.

Effect of Danggui Shaoyao San with Huangqi on adriamycin-induced nephrotic syndrome in rats

Objective:To determine the therapeutic effect of Danggui Shaoyao San with Huangqi on rats with nephrotic syndrome(NS)was discussed,and the scientific connotation of TCM treatment principle was elaborated,so as to provide experimental basis for its clinical application.Methods:The NS rat model was established by iv administration of adriamycin;The rats were divided into model group,Danggui Shaoyao San group,Danggui Shaoyao San with Huangqi group,Huangqi group and positive drug group,with 10 rats in control group;The best dosage ratio of Danggui Shaoyao San and Huangqi was screened by Excel;24 h urine protein was measured by BCA method;The electrolyte level was detected by automatic biochemical analyzer;In serum Urea nitrogen(BUN),Creatinine(SCr),Total cholesterol(TC),Triglyceride(TG),Total protein(TP),Albumin(ALB),Immunoglobulin M(Ig-M)and Immunoglobulin G(Ig-G)were detected by the kit;hematoxylin-eosin staining was used to observe the renal morphology;The Total water content(TBW),Extracellular water content(ECF)and Intracellular water content(ICF)were measured by experimental animal body composition analyzer.Results:Compared with the model group,the urine protein in the modified Astragalus group of Danggui Shaoyao Powder was significantly decreased(P<0.01);Urine electrolytes were significantly decreased and serum electrolytes were significantly increased(P<0.01);Serum BUN,SCR,TC and TG were significantly decreased(P<0.01),while TP,ALB,TBW and ICF were significantly increased(P<0.01);The levels of Ig-M and Ig-G were significantly increased(P<0.01),TBW and ICF were significantly increased,and ECF was significantly decreased(P<0.01);Histopathology showed that the pathological changes of renal tissue were obviously alleviated;The improvement of each index was better than that of Danggui Shaoyao San group and Huangqi group.Conclusion:Danggui Shaoyao San with Huangqi group can significantly improve the edema,proteinuria,blood lipid and immune function of NS rats,and the effect is better than that of Danggui Shaoyao San group and Huangqi group.It has the best therapeutic effect on NS,which indicates that Huangqi plays a key synergistic effect on Danggui Shaoyao San,which verifies the scientific connotation of"Yiqi Huoxue Lishui"in the treatment of NS.

Effect of trimetazidine in combined with Huangqi injection in resisting inflammation and oxygen radicals in patients with acute viral myocarditis

Objective: To explore the effect of trimetazidine in combined with Huangqi injection in resisting inflammation and oxygen radicals in patients with acute viral myocarditis (AVMC). Methods: A total of 70 patients with AVMC who were admitted in our hosptial from October, 2015 to September, 2017 were included in the study and randomized into the observation group and the control group with 35 cases in each group. The patients in the control group were orally administrated with trimetazidine. On the above basis, the patients in the observation group were given intravenous injection of Huangqi injection. The patients in the two groups were treated for 4 weeks. The morning fasting peripheral venous blood before and after treatment was collected. The serum TFN-α, IL-6, CRP, MDA, SOD, NO, cTnI, CK, CK-MB, and LDH. Results: CRP, TFN-α, and IL-6 after treatment in the observation group were significantly lower than those in the control group. MDA and NO after treatment in the observation group were significantly lower than those in the control group, while SOD was significantly higher than that in the control group. cTnI, CK, CK-MB, and LDH after treatment in the observation group were significantly lower than those in the control group. Conclusions:Trimetazidine in combined with Huangqi injection in the treatment of AVMC can effectively play the anti-inflammation and anti-OFR effects in order to reduce the myocardial damage, thus, the therapeutic effect is enhanced.

Effect of Huangqi Xiaoke Recipe combined with alprostadil on qi and yin deficiency type diabetic nephropathy and its effect on vascular endothelium and oxidative stress

Objective: To observe the clinical efficacy of Huangqi Xiaoke Decoction combined with alprostadil on qi and yin deficiency type diabetic nephropathy (DN) and its effect on vascular endothelium and oxidative stress. Methods: A total of 72 patients with qi and yin deficiency type DN who were admitted to the diabetes specialist ward and outpatient department of Baoan District Hospital of Shenzhen from January 2017 to July 2018 were enrolled. The patients were divided into the control group and the observation group according to the random number method. 36 cases in each group. Both groups were treated with conventional treatments such as hypoglycemic, hypotensive, lipid-lowering and anti-platelet aggregation. The control group was treated with alprostadil on the basis of conventional treatment. The observation group was given orally on the basis of the control group. Both groups were treated once a day for a total of 4 weeks. Compare the clinical syndrome scores and clinical efficacy of the two groups before and after treatment;fasting blood glucose (FPG), glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1C), blood lipids (TC, TG, LDL, HDL), serum creatinine (SCr), blood urea nitrogen (BUN Endothelin-1 (ET-1), nitric oxide (NO), von Willebrand factor (vWF);glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), superoxide disproportionation The level of enzyme (SOD), malondialdehyde (MDA). Results:The total effective rate of TCM syndromes in observation group was 94.44%, which was significantly different from 72.22% in the control group. The scores of TCM syndromes in the observation group were significantly lower than those in the control group;Compared with the control group, the HDL-C of the observation group did not change much, there was no statistical difference;FBG, HbA1C, SCr, BUN, TC, TG, LDL-C, ET-1, vWF, MDA Significantly decreased, NO, GSH-Px, SOD increased significantly, with significant difference. Conclusion: Huangqi Xiaoke Decoction combined with alprostadil in the treatment of qi and yin deficiency type DN has significant curative effect, which can not only lower blood sugar, regulate blood lipids, improve renal function and clinical symptoms, but also inhibit oxidative stress and protect endothelial function.

A network pharmacology approach to investigate the mechanism of“Huangqi-Shanzhuyu”in the treatment of diabetic nephropathy

Background:To explore the action mechanism of Huangqi(Radix Astragali)and Shanzhuyu(Fructus Corni)in the treatment of diabetic nephropathy based on network pharmacology,aiming to provide a basis for clinical application.Methods:The main active components of Huangqi and Shanzhuyu were discerned through the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology Database and Analysis Platform(TCMSP),Traditional Chinese Medicine Integrated Database(TCMID).The targets related to diabetic nephropathy(DN)were obtained using Genecards,Therapeutic Target Database(TTD),and National Center for Biotechnology Information(NCBI)Gene.Subsequently,protein-protein interaction(PPI)networks were constructed with Cytoscape 3.7.2 and the STRING database.Gene Ontology(GO)and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes(KEGG)pathway analyses were performed to analyze the intersection of targets via Database for Annotation,Visualization,and Integrated Discovery(DAVID)6.8.Built on the above analysis,we made a“Chinese medicine-chemical composition-target gene-disease”network.Results:Twenty-one active components were predicted from the Huangqi and Shanzhuyu herb pair,such as jaranol,mandenol and sitosterol.These components were applied to 41 targets mainly involved in many biological processes such as the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway,vascular endothelial growth factor(VEGF)signaling pathway,regulation of sodium ion transport and steroid-binding.Conclusion:This study proposes the network pharmacology method and identifies the potent combination therapeutic mechanism of Huangqi and Shanzhuyu for diabetic nephropathy(DN)through multiple targets and routes,this strategy will lay a good foundation for further in-depth study of the mechanism of action.

Potential Mechanism of Huangqi Guizhi Wuwu Decoction for Cervical Spondylosis treatment based on Network Pharmacology

Objective:To study the potential mechanism of Huangqi Guizhi Wuwu Decoction in the treatment of cervical spondylosis based on the network pharmacological method,and to provide a basis for clinical application and pharmacological research.Methods:TCMSP search was used to screen the main active compounds and related action targets of Huangqi Guizhi Wuwu Decoction,the standard names of action targets were obtained through the Uniprot database,and the"drug-target"interaction network was constructed by using Cytoscape3.6.1 software.The related targets of cervical spondylosis were obtained by searching GeneCards,OMIM,DisGeNET,and CTD databases,and the disease targets and drug targets were mapped by the Venny platform,and the intersection genes of them were the potential targets for drug treatment of this disease.Then,the intersection genes were input into the STRING database and Cytoscape 3.6.1 software,and the protein-protein interactions(PPI)network of"drug-disease intersection targets"was constructed,and we screened the core targets.Finally,GO biological function analysis and KEGG signaling pathway analysis of core targets were carried out through the DAVID database.Results:According to the screening conditions,74 effective compounds and 138 drug action targets of Huangqi Guizhi Wuwu Decoction were obtained,12179 genes related to cervical spondylosis were obtained,and the Venny platform analysis obtained 105 intersecting targets.With visual network processing by Cytoscape software,33 core targets were obtained by analyzing and calculating the core target degree values,which were JUN,PTGS2,NR3C1,TNF,IL6,TP53,EGFR,VEGFA,NOS3,IL1B,and so on.GO analysis showed that there were 133 items(P<0.05),involving adrenergic receptor activation,neurotransmitter receptor activation,nuclear receptor activation,catecholamine binding,etc.KEGG analysis obtained a total of 139 pathways(P<0.05),involving IL-17 signaling pathway,and tumor necrosis factor signaling pathway,relaxin signaling pathway,AGE-RAGE signaling pathway of diabetic complications,fluid shear stress,and atherosclerosis.Conclusion:the active components in Huangqi Guizhi Wuwu decoction may act on the core targets such as JUN,PTGS2,NR3C1,TNF,IL6,TP53,VEGFA through IL-17 signal pathway,tumor necrosis factor signal pathway,and AGE-RAGE signal pathway of diabetic complications,and exert their therapeutic effects.The research results can provide a basis for future basic and clinical research.

Experimental study on the effect of Huangqi and Danshen ultramicro gel on vascular healing of wound in rats based on network pharmacology

Objective:To explore the effective components of Huangqi(Astragalus membranaceus(Fisch.)Bge.)and Danshen(Salvia miltiorrhiza Bge.)and predict their potential functional targets,to explore the effect and mechanism of Huangqi and Danshen ultrafine granule gel on wound vascular healing in rats by network pharmacology and experimental verification.Methods:Using the TCMSP database to screen the active components of two herbs and their potential targets,to search the target related to vascular injury through the Gene Card database,and to select the gene target with correlation coefficient greater than 10%.Then map the disease related target to the potential target of the compound,to obtain the common target,and to import the information to the String online analysis platform and Cytoscape to make the PPI map,and to carry on the topological analysis,KEGG and GO enrichment analysis through Metascape platform.The expression analysis of the main target genes of network pharmacology was verified by pathological section staining and optical density method to determine the content of vascular endothelial growth factor(VEGF)in tissues,the number of tissue new capillaries,and the wound healing rate.Results:A total of 115 active components and 297 target genes were selected from Huangqi and Danshen,and 123 target genes were intersected with vascular injury,among which IL6,AKT1,INS,VEGFA,TNF,EGF,CASP3,MAPK1,TP53 were the active genes with the highest intersection value.The pathways involved are mainly related to AGE-RAGE signaling pathway in diabetic complications,MAPK signaling pathway,Pathways in cancer,human cytomegalovirus infection,Fluid shear stress and atherosclerosis,Endocrine resistance,foxo signaling pathway etc.We experimentally validated VEGFA based on the primary target of vascular regeneration,the experimental results showed that there was different expression of VEGFA proteins in wound vascular healing process,and the quercetin,daidzein,luteolin,apigenin,tanshinone i of 115 active components were selected as the main compounds acting on the VEGFA.Conclusion:This study systematically reveals the material basis and mechanism of Huangqi and Danshen regulating wound vascular healing through multi-component,multi-target and multi-pathway and provides theoretical and scientific basis for the clinical application of Huangqi and Danshen.

Research on the effect of Huangqi and Zeling granule combined with Zhushui No.1 paste on patients with cirrhosis

OBJECTIVE: To explore the clinical effect of Huangqi and Zeling granule combined with Zhushui No.l paste plus conventional therapy on patients with cirrhosi.METHODS: Totally 90 patients with liver cirrhosis were randomly assigned into two groups: control group and study group. They all met the inclusion criteria. The patients in the control group were treated by conventional treatment; the patients in the study group received Huangqi and Zeling granule and Zhushui No. 1 paste along with the conventional therapy.The paste was applied on the acupoint of shenque. The levels of LPS, ET-1, NO and AM ON were all measured before and after treatment. The depth of ascites, the change of diameter portal and size of spleen were performed by abdominal ultrasonography Adverse events were observed and documented.RESULTS: The levels of AMON, LPS, ET-1 and NO were all reduced after treatment which were more obviously in study group(P<0.05). The depth decreased in both study group and control group after treatment. However, the decrease was more in the study group than in the control group(P<0.05).CONCLUSION: The effect of Huangqi and Zeling granule plus Zhushui No. 1 paste combined with routine conventional therapy on cirrhosis was better than that of using the routine conventional therapy alone.

Effect of Huangqi injection in combined with irbesartan on the vascular endothelial function and CGRP in patients with early DN

Objective:To explore the effect of Huangqi injection in combined with irbesartan on the vascular endothelial function and calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) in patients with early diabetic nephropathy (DN). Methods:A total of 110 patients with early DN who were admitted in our hospital from August, 2015 to August, 2016 were included in the study and randomized into the observation group and the control group, 55 in each group. On the basis of routine treatments, the patients in the control group were given irbesartan (150 mg/time), 1 time/d, and given additional diuretics and calcium channel block when the blood pressure was greater than 130/80 mmHg. On the above basis, the patients in the control group were given Huangqi injection (50 mL)+0.9%NaCl (250 mL), ivdrip, 1 time/d. After 1-month treatment, the efficacy was evaluated. The full automatic biochemical analyzer was used to detect Scr, Bun, UAER, 24 h Upor, ET-1, TXB2, NO, and CGRP before and after treatment in the two groups. ELISA was used to detect PCX and LAP. Results:Scr, Bun, UAER, 24 h Upor levels after treatment in the observation group were significantly lower than those in the control group (P<0.05). ET-1 and TXB2 levels after treatment in the observation group were significantly lower than those in the control group (P<0.05), while NO and CGRP levels were significantly higher than those in the control group (P<0.05). PCX and LAP levels after treatment in the observation group were significantly lower than those in the control group (P<0.05). Conclusions:Huangqi injection in combined with irbesartan can effectively reduce the urine protein in patients with early DN, regulate the vascular endothelial function, and improve the renal function in order to delay the development of DN.

Effect of sodium ferulate in combined with Huangqi injection on the coagulation and immunological function in patients with primary nephrotic syndrome

Objective:To explore the effect of sodium ferulate in combined with Huangqi injection on the coagulation and immunological function in patients with primary nephrotic syndrome (PNS).Methods: A total of 137 patients with PNS were included in the study and randomized into the observation group (n=69) and the control group (n=68). The patients in the treatment group were given routine treatment, anticoagulation, lipid regulation, and other symptomatic treatments. On this basis, the patients in the observation group were given sodium ferulate in combined with Huangqi injection. The coagulation, immunological function, and hemorrheology indicators before and after treatment in the two groups were compared.Results:Alb content after treatment in the two groups was significantly elevated when compared with before treatment (P<0.05), while ET, 24 h UPQ, Scr, and BUN levels were significantly reduced when compared with before treatment (P<0.05);moreover, the improvement degree of the above indicators in the observation group was significantly greater than that in the control group (P<0.05). PT and APTT after treatment in the two groups were significantly prolonged when compared with before treatment (P<0.05), while FIB, D-D content, whole blood high shear viscosity, low shear viscosity, blood viscosity, and ARBC were significantly reduced when compared with before treatment (P<0.05);moreover, the improvement degree of the above indicators in the observation group was significantly greater than that in the control group (P<0.05). CD3+, CD4+, and CD8+ after treatment in the two groups were significantly elevated when compared with before treatment (P<0.05). CD3+ and CD4+ after treatment in the observation group were significantly higher than those in the control group (P<0.05). CD4+/CD8+, IgG, and IgA after treatment in the observation group were significantly higher than those in the control group (P<0.05).Conclusions:Sodium ferulate in combined with Huangqi injection in the treatment of PNS can improve the coagulation function and hemorheology, alleviate the blood coagulation, enhance the immunological function, and recover the renal function.

Huangqi Guizhi Wuwu Decoction suppresses inflammation and bone destruction in collagen-induced arthritis mice

Objective: Rheumatoid arthritis(RA) is a chronic inflammatory and destructive arthritis, characterized by inflammatory infiltration and bone destruction. Huangqi Guizhi Wuwu Decoction(HGWD) is traditional Chinese medicine, which has been applied in the treatment of RA in clinical. The aim of this study was to investigate the therapeutic effect of HGWD on collagen-induced arthritis(CIA) mouse model.Methods: DBA/1J female mice were used to establish the collagen-induced arthritis(CIA) model. HGWD was administered intragastrically once a day for four weeks starting on the 22nd day after the first immunization. The body weight, hind paw thickness and clinical score were measured every five days. Gait analysis, histopathological staining, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay(ELISA), ultrasound imaging and micro-computed tomography imaging were performed to determine the effects of HGWD treatment on inflammation and bone structure in this model. Moreover, Real-time PCR and Western blot analysis were used to detect inflammatory factors m RNA and protein levels after HGWD intervention in RAW264.7 cells.Results: HGWD attenuated symptoms of arthritis, suppressed inflammatory synovium area and the serum levels of inflammatory factors, inhibited joint space enlargement in the knee and ankle joints,reduced numbers of osteoclasts, protected bone destruction, as well as improved motor function.HGWD decreased the expression of m RNA for inflammatory factors and the protein expression levels of p-NF-ΚB and IL-17.Conclusion: These results suggested that HGWD suppresses inflammation, attenuates bone erosion and maintains motor function in collagen-induced arthritis mice.

Research on the Orientated Effective Components of Huangqi in Huangqi Jianzhong Tang Against Chronic Atrophic Gastritis Based on Multi-Spectrum–Effect Correlation

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the orientated effective components of Astragali Radix Huangqi(HQ) in HQ Jianzhong Tang(HQJZ), a classical formula of traditional Chinese medicine(TCM) used for treating chronic atrophic gastritis(CAG), using HQ as a monarch medicine. Materials and Methods: The spectra of HQJZ containing different polar parts of HQ were obtained using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-Q-Exactive mass spectrometry. Furthermore, the efficacy of HQJZ, which contains different polar parts of HQ, in treating rats with CAG was evaluated using traditional pharmacodynamic and nuclear magnetic resonance-based metabonomics. Grey relation analysis and partial least squares analysis were applied to analyze the spectrum–effect relationship and to screen out the orientated effective components related to HQ in the treatment of CAG. Results: Spectrum–effect relationship analysis showed that 24 compounds identified from the fingerprint spectrum were strongly correlated with efficacy. Compounds 8(calycosin-7-O-glc-6”-O-acetate), 9(3-hydroxy-9, 10-dimethoxyptercarpan), and 22(astragaloside II) were ranked among the top three. Conclusions: This study showed that integrating metabolomics and spectrum–effect relationship analysis is a powerful tool for obtaining orientated effective components of Chinese medicine in a given TCM formula.

Long-term efficacy and safety of Huangqi(Radix Astragali Mongolici)-based Traditional Chinese Medicine in diabetic peripheral neuropathy:a Meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

OBJECTIVE:To assess the long-term effectiveness of Huangqi(Radix Astragali Mongolici,HQ)-based Traditional Chinese Medicine(TCM)in the treatment of diabetic peripheral neuropathy(DPN).METHODS:Nine databases were searched to retrieve available randomized controlled trials that compared HQbased TCM and Western Medicines in the treatment of DPN.The methodological quality of the included studies was assessed using the Cochrane bias risk tool,and RevMan 5.4 was used for data analysis.The effect estimates of interest were risk ratio(RR),mean difference(MD)or standardized mean difference(SMD)with 95%confidence interval(CI).RESULTS:The results from 48 available studies assessing 3759 patients demonstrated that cases administered HQ-based TCM[RR=1.30,95%CI(1.21,1.40),P<0.00001]or HQ-based TCM combined with Western Medicines[RR=1.25,95%CI(1.19,1.31),P<0.00001]exhibited higher total efficacy rates than individuals who received Western Medicine alone.The results showed that the HQ-based TCM group had decreased Toronto Clinical Scoring System scores[MD=-1.50,95%CI(-1.83,-1.17),P<0.00001],and reduced serum interleukin 6[SMD=-0.57,95%CI(-0.87,-0.27),P=0.0002]and tumor necrosis factors-αlevels[SMD=-0.60,95%CI(-0.95,-0.25),P=0.0009].In addition,both HQ-based TCM and HQbased TCM combined with Western Medicine increased nerve conduction velocity and decreased glycaemia compared with Western Medicine alone.In terms of blood lipids,oxidative stress and adverse drug reactions,there were no significant differences between the HQ-based TCM groups and the Western Medicine control group.CONCLUSION:The current Meta-analysis revealed that HQ-based TCM yields higher efficacy and safety than Western Medicine alone for the treatment of DPN,although further well-designed RCTs are required to validate these findings.

Protective effect of modified Huangqi Chifeng decoction(加味黄芪赤风汤)on immunoglobulin A nephropathy through toll-like receptor 4/myeloid differentiation factor 88/nuclear factor-kappa B signaling pathway

OBJECTIVE:To examine the nephroprotective mechanism of modified Huangqi Chifeng decoction(加味黄芪赤风汤,MHCD)in immunoglobulin A nephropathy(IgAN)rats.METHODS:To establish the IgAN rat model,the bovine serum albumin,lipopolysaccharide,and carbon tetrachloride 4 method was employed.The rats were then randomly assigned to the control,model,telmisartan,and high-,medium-,and low-dose MHCD groups,and were administered the respective treatments via intragastric administration for 8 weeks.The levels of 24-h urinary protein,serum creatinine(CRE),and blood urea nitrogen(BUN)were measured in each group.Pathological alterations were detected.IgA deposition was visualized through the use of immunofluorescence staining.The ultrastructure of the kidney was observed using a transmission electron microscope.The expression levels of interleukin-6(IL-6),monocyte chemoattractant protein-1(MCP-1),and transforming growth factor-β1(TGF-β1)were examined by immunohistochemistry and quantitative polymerase chain reaction.Levels of toll-like receptor 4(TLR4),myeloid differentiation factor 88(MyD88),and nuclear factor-kappa B(NF-κB)P65,were examined by immunohistochemistry,Western blotting,and quantitative polymerase chain reaction.RESULTS:The 24-h urine protein level in each group increased significantly at week 6,and worsen from then on.But this process can be reversed by treatments of telmisartan,and high-,medium-,and low-dose of MHCD,and these treatments did not affect renal function.Telmisartan,and high-,and medium-dose of MHCD reduced IgA deposition.Renal histopathology demonstrated the protective effect of high-,medium-,and low-dose of MHCD against kidney injury.The expression levels of MCP-1,IL-6,and TGF-β1 in kidney tissues were downregulated by low,medium and high doses of MHCD treatment.Additionally,treatment of low,medium and high doses of MHCD decreased the protein and mRNA levels of TLR4,MyD88,and NF-κB.CONCLUSIONS:MHCD exerted nephroprotective effects on IgAN rats,and MHCD regulated the expressions of key targets in TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB signaling pathway,thereby alleviating renal inflammation by inhibiting MCP-1,IL-6 expressions,and ameliorating renal fibrosis by inhibiting TGF-β1 expression.

Huangqi Decoction,a compound Chinese herbal medicine,inhibits the proliferation and activation of hepatic stellate cells by regulating the long noncoding RNA-C18orf26-1/microRNA-663a/transforming growth factor-βaxis

Objective Huangqi Decoction(HQD),a classical traditional Chinese medicine formula,has been used as a valid treatment for alleviating liver fibrosis;however,the underlying molecular mechanism is still unknown.Although our previous studies showed that microRNA-663a(miR-663a)suppresses the proliferation and activation of hepatic stellate cells(HSCs)and the transforming growth factor-β/small mothers against decapentaplegic(TGF-β/Smad)pathway,whether long noncoding RNAs(lncRNAs)are involved in HSC activation via the miR-663a/TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway has not yet reported.The present study aimed to investigate the roles of lncRNA lnc-C18orf26-1 in the activation of HSCs and the mechanism by which HQD inhibits hepatic fibrosis.Methods The expression levels of lnc-C18orf26-1,miR-663a and related genes were measured by quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction.HSCs were transfected with the miR-663a mimic or inhibitor and lnc-C18orf26-1 small interfering RNAs.The water-soluble tetrazolium salt-1 assay was used to assess the proliferation rate of HSCs.Changes in lncRNA expression were evaluated in miR-663a-overexpressing HSCs by using microarray to identify miR-663a-regulated lncRNAs.RNA hybrid was used to predict the potential miR-663a binding sites on lncRNAs.Luciferase reporter assays further confirmed the interaction between miR-663a and the lncRNA.The expression levels of collagen α-2(I)chain(COL1A2),α-smooth muscle actin(α-SMA)and TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway-related proteins were determined using Western blotting.Results Lnc-C18orf26-1 was upregulated in TGF-β1-activated HSCs and competitively bound to miR-663a.Knockdown of lnc-C18orf26-1 inhibited HSC proliferation and activation,downregulated TGF-β1-stimulatedα-SMA and COL1A2 expression,and inhibited the TGF-β1/Smad signaling pathway.HQD suppressed the proliferation and activation of HSCs.HQD increased miR-663a expression and decreased lnc-C18orf26-1 expression in HSCs.Further studies showed that HQD inhibited the expression of COL1A2,α-SMA,TGF-β1,TGF-βtype I receptor(TGF-βRI)and phosphorylated Smad2(p-Smad2)in HSCs,and these effects were reversed by miR-663a inhibitor treatment.Conclusion Our study identified lnc-C18orf26-1 and miR-663a as promising therapeutic targets for hepatic fibrosis.HQD inhibits HSC proliferation and activation at least partially by regulating the lnc-C18orf26-1/miR-663a/TGF-β1/TGF-βRI/p-Smad2 axis.