Background and aim Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) extracts have potential as treatments for Parkinson’s disease (PD), but their neuroprotective mechanisms remain unclear. ATPase cation transporter type 13A2 (ATP13A2), a regulator of lysosomal function implicated in α-synuclein pathology, may represent a therapeutic target. This study aimed to identify CHM extracts that enhance ATP13A2 expression and evaluate their neuroprotective effects. Experimental procedures A screening of 23 CHM extracts was conducted using human embryonic kidney 293 (HEK-293) cells expressing green fluorescent protein (GFP) under the control of ATP13A2 promoter. The extract of Coptis chinensis (C. chinensis) rhizome and its active constituents—berberine, coptisine, and palmatine—were further evaluated in retinoic acid-differentiated BE(2)-M17 neuronal cells expressing A53T α-synuclein mutation. Results and conclusion The C. chinensis rhizome extract and its constituents increased GFP reporter activity by both high-content imaging (129–187%) and flow cytometry (178–261%), as well as lysosomal fluorescence (128–196%) in HEK-293 cells. In A53T α-synuclein-expressing neuronal cells, these treatments reduced LDH release (from 28% to 16–20%), caspase-3 activity (from 117% to 75–93%), and α-synuclein aggregation (from 19.6% to 14.6–16.1%), while promoting neurite outgrowth (from 19.5 μm to 20.6–22.4 μm). Expression of ATP13A2 (from 63% to 113–128%), lysosomal-associated membrane protein 2A (from 77% to 119–124%), and matured cathepsin D (from 70% to 120–130%) also increased. RNAi-mediated ATP13A2 knockdown diminished these neuroprotective benefits. These findings highlight ATP13A2 as a therapeutic target in PD and suggest C. chinensis rhizome extract and its constituents as potential modulators of lysosomal function.
Background and Aim Xifenghuashi formula (XFHS),a traditional Chinese medicine,shows promising effects in treating diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome (IBS-D),but its mechanisms are unclear.This study aims to confirm XFHS's efficacy in IBS-D treatment and its influence on the gut microbiota-bile acid-farnesoid X receptor (FXR)-fibroblast growth factor19/15 (FGF19/15) axis. Experimental procedure A randomized,double-blind,placebo-controlled clinical trial was conducted to assess XFHS's effectiveness.In animal experiments,IBS-D rat models were induced by oral gavage of senna along with restraint stress and divided into six groups:the IBS-D group,XFHS group (administered XFHS),ANTIBIOTIC group (administered antibiotic-s),A+XFHS group (administered antibiotics and XFHS),FGF401 (a FGFR4 receptor inhibitor) group (administered FGF401),and F+XFHS group (administered FGF401 and XFHS).Human and rat fecal samples,along with rat liver and terminal ileum samples,were analyzed for bile acid concentration,16S rRNA sequencing,and western blotting. Results and Conclusion XFHS could enhance the abundance of bile salt hydrolase (BSH)-active bacteria and decrease the abundance of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs)-producing bacteria in the IBS-D patients to a certain extent,and the same trend was found in the IBS-D rats.XFHS reduced the concentration of total fecal bile acids (including primary,conjugated,and unconjugated bile acids) in IBS-D patients and rats.However,this effect was eliminated by fibroblast growth factor receptor 4 (FGFR4) blockade in IBS-D rats.Furthermore,XFHS increased the protein expression of FXR and FGF15 in the terminal ileum,FGFR4 in the liver,and decreased the expression of cytochrome P450 7A1 (CYP7A1) in the liver.Overall,XFHS alleviated symptoms of IBS-D and restored the homeostasis of the gut microbiota and bile acid metabolism by regulating the gut microbiota-bile acid-FXR-FGF15-FGFR4 axis. Trial registration number (if clinical trial) ITMCTR,ITMCTR2100004795
Background and Aim Effective treatment options for recurrent or persistent Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) infections are currently unavailable. In this study, we investigated the effects of Fuzheng Lishi Huayu Decoction (FZLSHYD) on persistent CT infection and explored its mechanism. Experimental procedure The main components of FZLSHYD were analyzed via liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC/MS). A mouse CT infection model was established, and the animals were treated with different doses of FZLSHYD. An azithromycin group was used as a positive control. We performed indirect immunofluorescence assay for CT content in the lower genital tract, PCR for the expression of the CT gene in the vagina, hematoxylin and eosin staining for visualizing histopathological changes in the uterus and fallopian tubes, flow cytometry for assessing the expression of CD8+ T cell function activation/suppression marker proteins OX40 and LAG3, transmission electron microscopy for cellular autophagy, and western blotting for detecting the levels of LC3II/I, ATG5, Beclin-1, p62, PI3K, p-PI3K, Akt, p-Akt, mTOR, and p-mTOR. Moreover, the abovementioned indicators were also evaluated in mice administered MK2206, an AKT inhibitor. Results and Conclusion FZLSHYD attenuated uterine and fallopian tube tissue damage, inhibited CD8+ T cell autophagy, and activated the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway. Moreover, FZLSHYD-H partially mitigates the enhanced effect of CT infection caused by the inhibition of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway. The beneficial effects of FZLSHYD may be associated with the activation of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway and attenuation of autophagy.
Climate change is increasingly affecting the ecological stability, cultivation conditions, and bioactive compounds of medicinal plants used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), raising concerns about resource sustainability and therapeutic reliability. This scoping review aims to map current evidence on climate-related impacts on TCM medicinal plants and to examine how such evidence may inform future sustainability-oriented regulatory approaches. Following framework developed by Arksey & O’Malley, major databases were searched from inception to December 2025 for studies examining environmental or climatic influences on TCM medicinal plant distribution, growth, yield, or phytochemical characteristics. Reported outcomes were synthesised into three fields consisting of herb availability, herb quality, and adaptation strategies. To support consistent botanical identification and explore regulatory implications, identified species were subsequently mapped to the Taiwan Herbal Pharmacopoeia (THP) as analytical framework. From 2457 screened studies, 74 met inclusion criteria. Global warming was shown to impact availability of botanical drugs with predictive models, with species like Gentiana manshurica projected to lose highly suitable habitats, while some (e.g., Leonurus japonicus) have expanded into new regions. Moderate drought stress was found to improve active compound synthesis, but prolonged stress decreased yield and quality in plants such as Panax notoginseng and Glycyrrhiza uralensis. However, existing studies that systematically address adaptation policies and protocols remain limited. Climate change poses a substantial challenge to the resilience and sustainability of TCM plants. Integrating climate vulnerability into pharmacopoeia standards and prioritizing interdisciplinary adaptation strategies are essential to safeguard the global supply and clinical efficacy of TCM botanical resources.
Background and aim Chemotherapy for colorectal cancer (CRC) frequently induces immune dysfunction, which can negatively affect patient prognosis. Phellinus igniarius, a traditional Chinese medicinal fungus, exhibits immunomodulatory potential, yet clinical evidence supporting its use in postchemotherapy immune recovery remains scarce. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Phellinus igniarius Decoction (PEG) in treating postchemotherapy immune dysfunction in patients with CRC and identify potential beneficiaries. Experimental procedure This prospective, randomized, controlled trial enrolled patients with CRC who completed chemotherapy between January 2021 and June 2024. Participants were randomized (1:4:1) to receive placebo (N = 33), PEG (N = 132), or thymalfasin (N = 33). Thymalfasin (1.6 mg subcutaneously twice weekly), PEG (15 g/day orally), or placebo was administered for 8 weeks. Primary outcomes included changes in peripheral blood immune cell subsets (CD4+/CD8+ ratio and percentage of NK cells) and cytokines (Th1/Th2 balance). Secondary outcomes included quality of life (QOL) scores (EORTC QLQ-C30) and adverse events. Finally, the dominant Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) syndrome type in the PEG group was identified. Results and conclusion The PEG group demonstrated significant increases in the proportions of CD4+ T cells (p < 0.001), the percentage of NK cells (p < 0.05), and the levels of Th1 cytokines (IL-2 and IFN-γ), and a reduction in the levels of Th2/inflammatory factors (IL-4, IL-10 and TNF-α) (p < 0.05). It also improved quality of life scores (p < 0.05), with adverse event rates comparable to those of the controls. Subgroup analysis revealed that patients with spleen-kidney deficiency syndrome composed the optimal responder subgroup. PEG effectively restored immune function, improved quality of life, and was favorable for in postchemotherapy patients with CRC, with those exhibiting spleen-kidney deficiency syndrome representing the primary beneficiary population.
Background and aim Spinocerebellar ataxia type 3 (SCA3) is the most common form of hereditary cerebellar ataxia. The insulin/insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF1) system (IIS) has been proposed as a potential target for disease-modifying therapy. Astragalus membranaceus (AM) may modulate the IIS pathway and reduce neurodegeneration, as indicated by plasma neurofilament light chain (NfL), a biomarker of disease progression. Experimental procedure A randomized, triple-blind, placebo-controlled crossover trial was conducted in 32 patients with SCA3. Participants received AM or placebo for three months, followed by a one-month washout, then crossed over to the alternate treatment. Plasma NfL and IIS-related markers were measured. Twenty-three participants completed the trial. Results and conclusion Intention-to-treat analysis revealed a modest within-treatment reduction in NfL levels (27.6 ± 10.7 vs. 25.6 ± 9.8 pg/mL, P = 0.040) and increased insulin (12.5 ± 15.2 vs. 21.1 ± 15.5 μIU/mL, P = 0.004) after AM. However, the adjusted regression model showed no significant between-treatment difference in NfL (P = 0.127), and changes in NfL were not correlated with insulin. No significant changes were observed in IGF1 or IGF-binding proteins. Exploratory subgroup analyses suggested larger biomarker changes in later-stage patients. No carryover effects or demographic differences were noted. Overall, AM administration was associated with modest within-treatment biomarker changes in NfL and insulin, although the adjusted between-treatment difference in NfL was not statistically significant. These findings should be interpreted cautiously as preliminary and hypothesis-generating observations rather than confirmatory evidence of therapeutic efficacy.
Background and aim This study was carried out to evaluate the possible gut modulatory and antibacterial activities of Myrica salicifolia root extract (Ms.Cr). Experimental procedure Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis was conducted for chemical profiling, while FTIR analyzed the chemical bonds. Mice were used for in vivo experiments, while possible pharmacodynamics were explored in rabbit jejunal tissues. Results and conclusion GC-MS analysis identified 16 metabolites, while mice administered with lower doses of Ms.Cr (50 and 100 mg/kg) causes increase in the count of wet feces and the total number of fecal outputs, which was significantly reduced in the pre-atropinized mice. At higher doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg, Ms.Cr showed respective protection of 40% and 80% in mice in castor oil induced diarrhea. In jejunal tissues, lower concentrations of Ms.Cr increased the spontaneous contractions followed by complete relaxation at higher concentrations. Further, Ms.Cr caused concentration-dependent (1.0-5.0 mg/mL) relaxation of high K+-induced contractions, similar to papaverine. Preincubated jejunal tissues with Ms.Cr shifted the Ca++ concentration-response curves (CRCs) towards right with suppression of the maximum response, similar to verapamil, thus confirming Ca++ channel blocking activity. Similar to papaverine, preincubation of tissues with 3 and 5 mg/mL of Ms.Cr, caused shift in isoprenaline CRCs towards left, thus showing phosphodiesterase inhibition. Ms.Cr showed an antimicrobial effect against pathogenic gut bacteria including E. coli, Sh. sonnei, S. typhimurium and ESβL (extended-spectrum beta-lactamase)-producing E. coli. Thus, this research provides a solid foundation for the therapeutic uses of M. salicifolia in gut motility-related disorders.
Background and aim Despite the success of antiretroviral therapy, Human Immunodeficiency Virus type 1 (HIV-1) remains a formidable global health challenge due to drug toxicity, resistance, and persistent immune dysfunction. Tinospora cordifolia (TC), an Ayurvedic Rasayana herb, holds immense promise as a phytotherapeutic alternative owing to its dual antiviral and immunomodulatory potential. This study investigated the anti-HIV-1 efficacy and the mechanistic basis of TC extracts. Experimental procedure Hydroalcoholic (HATC) and aqueous (AQTC) extracts of TC were evaluated in vitro using TZM-bl cells and primary human PBMCs infected with HIV-1 primary isolates. Antiviral activity, cytotoxicity, viral enzyme inhibition, and immunomodulatory effects were assessed through luciferase assays, ELISA, qRT-PCR, immunoblotting, and cytokine profiling. Molecular docking was performed to identify bioactive phytoconstituents targeting key HIV-1 enzymes. Results and conclusion Both TC extracts exhibited potent, dose-dependent anti-HIV-1 activity, with HATC showing superior efficacy. HATC inhibited HIV-1 protease and reverse transcriptase, suppressed GAG (Group-specific Antigen), TAT (Trans-Activator of Transcription), and p24 expression, and modulated macrophage cytokine profiles by controlling IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, IL-10, and TGF-β. Notably, HATC may upregulate Stimulator of Interferon Genes (STING)–Interferon beta (IFN-β) signalling, suggesting enhanced innate antiviral defence. Molecular docking revealed strong binding affinities of columbin, tinosporide, and tinosporaside with HIV-1 protease and reverse transcriptase. Experimental validation confirmed that columbin demonstrated potent anti-HIV-1 activity. This is the first comprehensive study to demonstrate that TC extract exerts multi-targeted inhibition of HIV-1 replication and restores immune balance. These findings support its development as a novel adjunct phytotherapy for HIV-1 and warrant further pre-clinical investigation.
Background and aim Otsu-Ji-To (OJT), also known as Eul-ja-tang in Korean, is a traditional herbal formula used to treat hemorrhoids. We investigated its antiviral effects against HCoV-OC43, SARS-CoV-2, and its variants. Experimental procedure Antiviral activity was determined using qRT-PCR, Western blot analysis, immunofluorescent staining assay, plaque reduction assay, or CPE reduction assay. UHPLC-QTOF MS/MS and UHPLC-MRM analyses were used to identify and quantify the OJT's chemical markers. To determine the mode of action, SARS-CoV-2 Mpro and PLpro activity assay kits and a cell-based RdRp activity assay system were used. SARS-CoV-2– or Omicron variant–infected K18-hACE2 transgenic mice and hamsters in vivo experiments were conducted. Results and conclusions We found that OJT inhibited HCoV-OC43 (IC50 = 674.9 μg/mL), SARS-CoV-2 (IC50 = 236.5 μg/mL), and its variants by reducing viral RNA and protein expression levels as well as attenuating cytopathic effects in vitro. We identified and quantified seven compounds from OJT's herbal components. Baicalein, liquiritigenin, emodin, and rhein exhibited anti-SARS-CoV-2 activity by lowering viral protein expression levels. Furthermore, OJT inhibited the SARS-CoV-2 viral Mpro and PLpro in enzymatic activity assays as well as RNA-dependent RNA polymerase in a cell-based assay. In vivo, oral administration of OJT to wild-type SARS-CoV-2– or Omicron variant–infected K18-hACE2 transgenic mice and hamsters increased survival rates, reduced viral RNA and protein levels, or improved lung histology, suggesting OJT's therapeutic potential for treating COVID-19. These results suggest that OJT could be a promising therapeutic agent for treating coronavirus infections.
Background and aim The traditional Chinese formula Shanyu Wan (SYW), comprising Panax ginseng, Dioscorea opposita Thunb and Atractylodes Rhizoma, has been empirically employed for metabolic regulation, although its mechanistic basis remains incompletely elucidated. Experimental procedure Senescence-accelerated mouse prone 8 (SAMP8) mice were orally administered SYW by gavage at 2.56 g/kg for 8 weeks, with age-matched senescence-accelerated mouse resistant 1 (SAMR1) mice serving as controls. Muscle phenotype was evaluated by forelimb grip strength, rotarod performance, spontaneous locomotor activity, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Histopathological alterations were evaluated by Masson's trichrome staining. Mitochondrial ultrastructure was examined by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and mitochondrial functional parameters were subsequently determined. Furthermore, the effects of SYW-containing serum on oxidative injury were examined in t-BHP-treated C2C12 myoblasts, together with pharmacological interference analysis of PGC-1α-related signaling. Results and conclusion Oral administration of SYW significantly improved muscle volume, grip strength, and motor performance in SAMP8 mice. These protective effects were accompanied by partial restoration of mitochondrial ultrastructure, increased mitochondrial respiratory chain complex activity, reduced oxidative stress, and changes in PGC-1α-related signaling. In vitro, SYW-containing serum attenuated t-BHP-induced oxidative and mitochondrial injury in C2C12 myoblasts, while pharmacological interference experiments suggested the involvement of PGC-1α-related signaling. These findings provide preclinical evidence that SYW may alleviate age-related muscle alterations by improving mitochondrial function and redox balance.
Background and aim:The anti-inflammatory and anti-pyroptosis effects of traditional Chinese medicine Qingwen Baidu Decoction (QBD), as well as the potential involvement of miR-146a from M2 alveolar macrophage exosomes in acute lung injury (ALI) remain uncharacterized. This study aims to explore the mechanism by which QBD attenuates lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced ALI and the involvement of alveolar macrophage exosomal miR-146a. Experimental procedure:Mouse models of LPS-induced ALI were treated with QBD and/or antago-miR-146a. Vascular permeability was assessed by wet/dry (W/D) ratio and total protein concentration of broncho-alveolar lavage fluid (BALF). BALF neutrophils were stained with Wright-Giemsa stain and counted. M2 macrophages were assessed by immunofluorescence. The exosomes and alveolar macrophages were isolated from BALF. Alveolar epithelial type Ⅱ cells (AEC-II) were isolated from lung tissues and incubated with the exosomes. TLR-4/NF-κB signaling and pyroptosis proteins were detected by western blotting and flow cytometry. Results and conclusion:QBD treatment attenuated lung damage and enhanced M2 polarization. M2 secreted exosomal miR-146a was increased after QBD treatment. The exosomal miR-146a can be taken up by AEC-II to suppress AEC-II pyroptosis via inhibiting TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway. Mid-to high-dose QBD increased miR-146a expression, suppressed TLR4/NF-κB signaling, and attenuated ALI in vivo. Inhibition of miR-146a abolished the protective effect of QBD against ALI. QBD increased miR-146a expression and secretion in M2 macrophage exosomes, decreased TLR4/NF-κB signaling in AEC II cells, and suppressed AEC-II pyroptosis, attenuating septic lung injury.
Astaxanthin, a red xanthophyll carotenoid derived from Haematococcus pluvialis and various marine organisms, represents an important interface between traditional natural therapeutics and modern complementary medicine. Traditionally sourced from carotenoid-rich marine organisms to enhance vitality, its efficacy is now supported by evidence demonstrating potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory activities. Beyond its incorporation into nutraceuticals and functional foods, astaxanthin has gained increasing attention for broad applications in aquaculture, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. In aquaculture, astaxanthin enhances pigmentation and immunity, while in biomedical contexts, it exhibits protective effects against oxidative stress-related disorders, including neurodegenerative diseases, diabetes, inflammation, and cardiovascular dysfunction. Global demand for astaxanthin continues to rise, driven by health-conscious consumers, expanding aquaculture practices, and advances in extraction and purification technologies. Efficient isolation and purification strategies, such as liquid–liquid extraction, crystallization, high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), high-speed counter-current chromatography (HSCCC), simulated moving bed chromatography (SMB), and salt-assisted liquid–liquid extraction (SALLE), have significantly improved product yield, quality, and scalability. With the global astaxanthin market was valued at approximately USD 998.1 million in 2024 and is projected to reach about USD 2.15 billion by 2034, corresponding to a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.8%, astaxanthin stands out as a promising natural bioactive compound linking traditional utilization, biomedical innovation, and sustainable industrial development.
The 11th revision of the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11) introduced, for the first time in its history, a chapter dedicated to traditional medicine (TM). This inclusion represents a major step toward the international recognition and standardization of TM concepts and terminologies.This article reviews the background, development process, and significance of incorporating the TM chapter into ICD-11, and discusses future directions for its utilization in health information systems, research, and education.The development of the ICD-11 TM chapter began in 2005 under the WHO Western Pacific Regional Office as part of a standardization project for traditional East Asian medicine. It was transferred to WHO headquarters in 2009, reviewed by 142 experts from 22 countries, and field-tested in Japan, China, Korea, and the United Kingdom.The WHO General Assembly adopted ICD-11 in 2019, and Chapter 26—Traditional Medicine Conditions Module 1—came into effect in January 2022. The inclusion of TM does not imply WHO endorsement of its efficacy or safety, but rather provides a global platform for evidence-based evaluation through research and statistical analysis. Following Module 1, Module 2—covering Ayurveda, Unani, and Siddha—was released in 2025. The establishment of the Traditional Medicine Reference Group (TMRG) within WHO Family of International Classification (WHO-FIC) further facilitates integration of TM concepts into the International Classification of Health Interventions (ICHI).The ICD-11 TM chapter provides an essential global framework for TM research, education, and policy, fostering international collaboration toward evidence-based integration of traditional medicine into health systems. Taxonomy Traditional Medicine Classification, WHO ICD-11
Background and aim:Sahasthara (SHT), a traditional Thai herbal remedy used for anti-inflammatory and musculoskeletal disorders, lacks clinical evaluation as a topical formulation employing microemulsion (ME) technology. This study aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of a Sahasthara microemulsion (SHT-ME) compared with a diclofenac microemulsion (DF-ME) in patients with primary knee osteoarthritis (OA). Experimental procedure:Eighty-four patients aged 40-70 years were randomized to receive either 1% SHT-ME or 2% DF-ME, applied three times daily for 28 days. Efficacy was evaluated using the pain visual analogue scale (VAS), 100-m walking time, Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) scores, and global assessments. Safety assessments included physical examinations, laboratory tests, and adverse-event monitoring. Results:Both formulations significantly reduced VAS pain scores, improved walking time, and decreased WOMAC scores at days 14 and 28 compared with baseline (P < 0.05). No significant efficacy differences were observed between groups (P > 0.05). Liver and renal function, blood pressure, and biochemical parameters remained within normal ranges, and no severe or skin-related adverse events occurred in either group. Conclusion:SHT-ME provided efficacy comparable to DF-ME in relieving pain and improving mobility in knee OA. Both treatments were well tolerated and safe. These findings suggest that SHT-ME, a natural herbal alternative, and DF-ME, a synthetic drug formulation, are equally effective topical microemulsions for knee osteoarthritis management.
Background and aim: As an auxiliary therapy, acupuncture is effective in ameliorating myocardial ischemia (MI). Selecting correct acupoints is widely acknowledged to be key for therapeutic effects of acupuncture, and traditional acupuncturists believe that selecting acupoints whose pressure pain threshold (PPT) change with disease, for instance selecting PC6 (Neiguan) when MI occurs, usually leads to better therapeutic effects. In this study, we aimed to identify the molecular mechanism of PPT regulation at PC6 in MI rats. Experimental procedure: Firstly, we established MI models by intraperitoneal injection of ISO and evaluated PPT changes and mast cell degranulation (MCD) at PC6 during MI. Then, we performed high-throughput sequencing and overlapped the differentially expressed miRNAs in plasma and skin tissue from the left PC6 (L-PC6). Through bioinformatics analysis and dual-luciferase reporter assays, we tried to find the downstream molecules of miRNA. Subsequently, miRNA agonists were injected intramusculally at L-PC6, and we paid attention to changes in PPT and MCD at L-PC6 as well as the relationship between local mast cells (MCs) and nerve axons. Result and conclusion: PPT decreased and MCD increased at PC6 in MI rats and miR-144-3p is a key molecule in the induction of these phenomenon. Furthermore, miR-144-3p targeting Interleukin-1(3 (IL-1(3) leads to local MCD, neurogenic inflammation and peripheral nociceptor hypersensitization, finally resulting in PPT change at PC6. Innovatively, our study also provides a new direction for investigating the relationship between MCs, PPT and sensitivity of acupoints, which is mediated by miR-144-3p.
Background and Aim Inhibiting inflammaging is key to preventing cardiovascular complications in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients. Gancao Nourishing-Yin decoction (GCNY), a Chinese herbal remedy, has shown anti-inflammatory and antioxidative effects. This study explores the efficacy and mechanism of GCNY in reducing endothelial inflammaging in RA. Experimental procedure Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were cultured with RA serum to construct an endothelial inflammaging cell model. Cell viability, reactive oxygen species (ROS), and senescence-associated β-galactosidase (SA-β-gal) staining assays were performed to evaluate the effects of GCNY. GCNY components were identified using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). The potential mechanisms of GCNY were investigated and verified through RNA sequencing (RNA-seq), network pharmacology, molecular docking analysis, and web-lab experiments. Results and Conclusion RA serum-treated HUVECs displayed hallmark inflammaging features, including abnormal proliferation, increased apoptosis, elevated ROS and higher SA-β-gal levels. GCNY medicated serum reduced ROS, SA-β-gal, P53 and P21 levels, while improving angiogenesis. RNA-seq analysis revealed that GCNY lowered the transcriptional expression of adhesion molecules and chemokines. LC-MS/MS identified 72 compounds, and network pharmacology analysis linked these compounds to the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/protein kinase B signaling pathway (PI3K/AKT pathway). Western blot assay verified that GCNY downregulated the phosphorylated protein levels of PI3K/AKT pathway. The molecular docking analysis suggested coactions between the PI3K-related proteins and the components of GCNY. In conclusion, the RA serum induced inflammaging HUVECs model, and GCNY demonstrated therapeutic potential by mitigating these effects. This study offers a promising approach for preventing cardiovascular complications in RA patients.
Background:and Aim: Coptidis Rhizoma extract (CRE) is a traditional herbal medicine commonly used to treat insomnia and cognitive deficits. However, its protective effects and underlying molecular mechanisms in conditions such as sleep deprivation (SD) are not fully understood. Experimental procedure:This study intended to elucidate these mechanisms by combining functional assessments, imaging techniques, and genomic analyses in an animal model of sleep fragmentation-induced cognitive impairment. CRE's efficacy was compared with melatonin, an established neuroprotective agent. Results and conclusion:Our results demonstrated that SD significantly impaired cognitive functions and induced oxidative stress, inflammation, and multiple forms of neuronal cell death. Additionally, SD disrupted growth hormone (Gh) and hemoglobin (Hb) synthesis, impaired glymphatic clearance, and promoted accumulation of amyloid β-peptide (Aβ1-42), collectively contributing to neuronal inflammation and degeneration. Oral administration of CRE (0.5-1.5 g/kg/day) and intraperitoneal melatonin (10 mg/kg/day) for 15 days effectively reversed these adverse effects by restoring Gh and Hb synthesis, TH- and DCX-positive neurons, and glymphatic function, reducing inflammation and neurodegeneration, and normalizing genes and proteins involved in neurotransmission, oxygen transport, DNA repair, cellular metabolism, structural integrity, and neuronal function. However, neither treatment restored the downregulated expression of Gh-related genes, indicating limited effects on hypothalamic-pituitary regulation. In conclusion, these findings highlight the potential therapeutic role of CRE in alleviating cognitive and physiological impairments caused by sleep deprivation.
Background and Aim Jing Guan Fang (JGF) is an herbal formulation developed for the prevention of COVID-19 via SARS-CoV-2 infection. In this study, we aimed to clarify the anti-inflammatory effects of JGF on macrophages stimulated by the SARS-CoV-2 envelope protein (2-E) both in vitro and in vivo. Experimental procedure In vitro, typical and alveolar macrophages were treated with JGF under 2-E stimulation to evaluate changes in inflammatory mediators and signaling pathways. A mouse model using murine macrophages was also employed to assess JGF’s anti-inflammatory effects. Mice received oral JGF administration, and the inflammatory responses induced by the 2-E protein were examined in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and blood serum. Results and conclusions The mouse model showed oral JGF administration could sufficiently reduce 2-E-stimulated proinflammatory factors in the bronchoalveolar lavage and blood serum. Moreover, JGF suppressed the 2-E-induced NO, TNF-α, and IL-6 production as well as the expression of iNOS and COX-2 in murine typical and alveolar macrophages. Mechanistically, JGF attenuated 2-E-mediated phosphorylation of STAT3 and ERK1/2 signaling pathways. Furthermore, baicalin and wogonoside, key components of JGF, demonstrated potent efficacy. To our knowledge, this is the first study to show that JGF mitigates 2-E-induced proinflammatory responses via modulation of STAT3 and ERK signaling, supporting its potential as a therapeutic herbal formulation against coronavirus E protein-related cytokine storms.
Background and aim:South Korea has the highest suicide rate among Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development countries, with major depressive disorder being a key predictor of suicide risk. Given the country's unique dual medical system integrating Western medicine and traditional Korean medicine (TKM), this study investigated the impact of TKM utilization on suicide rates and depression outcomes in patients with depression. Experimental procedure:We conducted a nationwide retrospective cohort study using the Korean National Health Insurance Service database, analyzing adults newly diagnosed with depression between 2007 and 2008 and followed for up to 10 years. After propensity score matching, 916 TKM users (>13 visits within 180 days of diagnosis) and 916 non-TKM users were included. Primary outcome was death by suicide; secondary outcomes included worsening depression measured by suicide, inpatient services, or tertiary hospital services. We applied the Fine-Gray model to estimate sub-distribution hazard ratios (SHR) with 95 % confidence intervals (CIs). Results and conclusion:Over 5 and 10 years, 182 (9.9 %) and 314 (17.1 %) patients showed worsening depression, with small, non-significant reductions in TKM users (5-years SHR 0.962, 95 % CI 0.727-1.27; 10-years SHR 0.869, 95 % CI 0.697-1.08). Suicide incidences were low, with no significant difference (5-years SHR 1.00, 95 % CI 0.25-4.01; 10-years SHR 0.666, 95 % CI 0.236-1.88). TKM utilization was not significantly associated with reduced suicide rates or depression worsening. These findings highlight the need for enhanced mental health training in TKM practices and integrated care approaches.
