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Background: Parkinson's disease (PD) is the second most prevalent neurodegenerative ailment affecting aged people. Several motor and non-motor symptoms appearing with this disease are linked to reduction in dopamine levels. Parkinson's disease manifested by a wide range of symptoms, including gait instability, voice impairments, bradykinesia, hypomimia, tremors, and cognitive dysfunctions, where the concern is its steady global progression. Therefore, by evaluating the stage-specific retention and transition thresholds, the suggested work attempts to detect the progression of PD. Similarly, the assessment of the annual rate of deterioration of symptoms aids in assessing the influence of medications on four stages and six prime symptoms. Results: During the 9-year period following clinical diagnosis, a symptomatic deterioration of 34.995% is observed in untreated patients compared to treated patients. Furthermore, the experimental analysis illustrates that medicines assist in regulating only bradykinesia, tremors, hypomimia, and speech impairment, which lasts for 4.8 years on average. A saturation period is also identified during the moderate phase, where the computed average depreciation in the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) is the least. Similarly, from stages 1 to 4, medicines might improve stage retention by 4.44, 3.5, 2.72, and 1.6 years, respectively. It demonstrates that, despite transient advantages and adverse effects, medications also have an optimistic impact on PD patients. Conclusions: Here, we show that medication can extend the lifespan of PD patients up to 12 years cumulatively. Furthermore, the proposed work suggests that stagewise alternative remedies for improving quality of life, boosting the benefits of medicines, and eliminating their side effects. These include counselling, diet changes, yoga asanas, herbal medicines, bio-cleansing and other therapies. The current work does not consider the temporary transition among stages; nonetheless, further investigation regarding PD could open avenues for more worthy treatments with fewer side effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Low immunity and sleep disorders are prevalent suboptimal health conditions in contemporary populations, which render them susceptible to the infiltration of pathogenic factors. LJC, which has a long history in traditional Chinese medicine for nourishing the Yin and blood and calming the mind, is obtained by modifying Qiyuan paste. Dendrobium officinale Kimura et Migo has been shown to improve the immune function in sleep-deprived mice. In this study, based on the traditional Chinese medicine theory, LJC was prepared by adding D. officinale Kimura et Migo to Qiyuan paste decoction. Methods: Indicators of Yin deficiency syndrome, such as back temperature and grip strength, were measured in each group of mice; furthermore, behavioral tests and pentobarbital sodium-induced sleep tests were performed. An automatic biochemical analyzer, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kit, and other methods were used to determine routine blood parameters, serum immunoglobulin (IgG, IgA, and IgM), cont (C3, C4), acid phosphatase (ACP) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels in the spleen, serum hemolysin, and delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) levels. In addition, serum levels of γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and glutamate (Glu) were detected using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Hematoxylin–eosin staining and Nissl staining were used to assess the histological alterations in the hypothalamus tissue. Western blot and immunohistochemistry were used to detect the expressions of the GABA pathway proteins GABRA1, GAD, GAT1, and GABAT1 and those of CD4+ and CD8+ proteins in the thymus and spleen tissues. Results: The findings indicated that LJC prolonged the sleep duration, improved the pathological changes in the hippocampus, effectively upregulated the GABA content in the serum of mice, downregulated the Glu content and Glu/GABA ratio, enhanced the expressions of GABRA1, GAT1, and GAD, and decreased the expression of GABAT1 to assuage sleep disorders. Importantly, LJC alleviated the damage to the thymus and spleen tissues in the model mice and enhanced the activities of ACP and LDH in the spleen of the immunocompromised mice. Moreover, serum hemolysin levels and serum IgG, IgA, and IgM levels increased after LJC administration, which manifested as increased CD4+ content, decreased CD8+ content, and enhanced DTH response. In addition, LJC significantly increased the levels of complement C3 and C4, increased the number of white blood cells and lymphocytes, and decreased the percentage of neutrophils in the blood. Conclusions: LJC can lead to improvements in immunocompromised mice models with insufficient sleep. The underlying mechanism may involve regulation of the GABA/Glu content and the expression levels of GABA metabolism pathway-related proteins in the brain of mice, enhancing their specific and nonspecific immune functions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Psoriasis is a long-term inflammatory skin disease. A novel herbal formula containing nine Chinese herbal medicines, named Inflammation Skin Disease Formula (ISDF), has been prescribed in clinics for decades. Aims: To investigate the efficacy and action mechanisms of ISDF on psoriasis using imiquimod (IMQ) and Interleukin-23 (IL-23)-induced models in mice and reveal the pharmacokinetics profile of ISDF in rats. Methods: Topical administration of IMQ and intradermal injection with IL-23 respectively induced skin lesions like psoriasis on the dorsal area of Balb/c and C57 mice. The mice's body weight, skin thickness, and psoriasis area and severity index (PASI) were assessed weekly. SD rats were used in the pharmacokinetics study and the contents of berberine and baicalin were determined. Results: The PASI scores and epidermal thickness of mice were markedly decreased after ISDF treatment in both models. ISDF treatment significantly decreased the contents of IL-17A and IL-22 in the serum of IMQ- and IL-23-treated mice. Importantly, ISDF markedly downregulated IL-4, IL-6, IL-1β, and tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) gene expression, and the phosphorylation of NF-κB p65, JNK, ERKs and MAPK p38 in IMQ-treated mice. The protein phosphorylation of Jak1, Jak2, Tyk2 and Stat3 was significantly mitigated in the ISDF-treated groups. The absorption of baicalin and berberine of ISDF through the gastrointestinal tract of rats was limited, and their distribution and metabolism in rats were also very slow, which suggested ISDF could be used in the long-term application. Conclusions: ISDF has a strong anti-psoriatic therapeutic effect on mouse models induced with psoriasis through IMQ and IL-23, which is achieved by inhibiting the activation of the Jak/Stat3-activated IL-23/Th17 axis and the downstream NF-κB signalling and MAPK signalling pathways. ISDF holds great potential to be a therapy for psoriasis and should be further developed for this purpose. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Benefiting from the complex system composed of various constituents, medicament portions, species, and places of origin, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) possesses numerous customizable and adaptable efficacies in clinical practice guided by its theories. However, these unique features are also present challenges in areas such as quality control, screening active ingredients, studying cell and organ pharmacology, and characterizing the compatibility between different Chinese medicines. Drawing inspiration from the holistic concept, an integrated strategy and pattern more aligned with TCM research emerges, necessitating the integration of novel technology into TCM modernization. The microfluidic chip serves as a powerful platform for integrating technologies in chemistry, biology, and biophysics. Microfluidics has given rise to innovative patterns like lab-on-a-chip and organoids-on-a-chip, effectively challenging the conventional research paradigms of TCM. This review provides a systematic summary of the nature and advanced utilization of microfluidic chips in TCM, focusing on quality control, active ingredient screening/separation, pharmaceutical analysis, and pharmacological/toxicological assays. Drawing on these remarkable references, the challenges, opportunities, and future trends of microfluidic chips in TCM are also comprehensively discussed, providing valuable insights into the development of TCM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) presents a formidable global health concern, affecting one in six adults over 25. This review explores the potential of phenolic compounds in managing CKD and its complications. By examining the existing research, we highlight their diverse biological activities and potential to combat CKD-related issues. We analyze the nutritional benefits, bioavailability, and safety profile of these compounds. While the clinical evidence is promising, preclinical studies offer valuable insights into underlying mechanisms, optimal dosages, and potential side effects. Further research is crucial to validate the therapeutic efficacy of phenolic compounds for CKD. We advocate for continued exploration of their innovative applications in food, pharmaceuticals, and nutraceuticals. This review aims to catalyze the scientific community's efforts to leverage phenolic compounds against CKD-related challenges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Piperine, an active plant alkaloid from black pepper (Piper nigrum), has several pharmacological effects, namely antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which involve inhibiting molecular events associated with various stages of cancer development. The aim of this study was to investigate the molecular mechanisms of action of piperine in relation to its potential anticancer effect on head and neck cancer cells. Parameters related to neoplastic potential and cytokine, protein and gene expression were investigated in head and neck cancer cell lines (HEp-2 and SCC-25) treated with piperine. The results of the tests indicated that piperine modified morphology and inhibited viability and the formation of cell colonies. Piperine promoted genotoxicity by triggering apoptosis and cell cycle arrest in the G2/M and S phases. A decrease in cell migration was also observed, and there was decreased expression of MMP2/9 genes. Piperine also reduced the expression of inflammatory molecules (PTGS2 and PTGER4), regulated the secretion of cytokines (IFN-γ and IL-8) and modulated the expression of ERK and p38. These results suggest that piperine exerts anticancer effects on tumor cells by regulating signaling pathways associated with head and neck cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Helicobacter pylori has been implicated in various gastrointestinal disorders, including functional dyspepsia. This study aimed to compare the anti-H. pylori activity and gastroprotective effects of three typical herbal formulas used for gastrointestinal disorders in Korea: Shihosogan-tang (ST), Yijung-tang (YT), and Pyeongwi-san (PS). Firstly, we assessed the total phenolic and flavonoid contents, as well as the antioxidative capacity. Additionally, we evaluated the antibacterial effect on H. pylori using an ammonia assay, minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) test, and the disk agar diffusion method. Furthermore, we examined alterations in the gene expression of tight junction proteins, pro-inflammatory cytokines, and cellular vacuolation using an AGS cell model infected with H. pylori. While ST exhibited a higher total phenolic content, superior free radical scavenging, and inhibition of H. pylori compared to YT and PS, YT more evidently inhibited gastric cellular morphological changes such as vacuolation. All formulations significantly ameliorated changes in inflammatory and gastric inflammation-related genes and cellular morphological alterations induced by H. pylori infection. Overall, the present in vitro study suggests that all three herbal formulas possess potential for ameliorating gastrointestinal disorders, with ST relatively excelling in inhibiting H. pylori infection and inflammation, while YT potentially shows greater efficacy in directly protecting the gastric mucosa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Scutellaria rupestris subsp. cephalonica (Rech.f.) Greuter & Burdet (Lamiaceae) is a perennial herb endemic to Mounts Ainos and Roudi on the island of Cephalonia. Until now, information about the taxon's distribution has been sketchy: two fairly localized populations on Mt. Ainos have been reported, one of them extinct, and two on Mt. Roudi, without specifics. Because we thought that the taxon is much more common, we designed a survey along contours encircling the two peaks totaling 80 km. We recorded 112 locations of the taxon. We found that S. rupestris subsp. cephalonica prefers sunny clearings within fir forest as well as crevices among limestone rock on somewhat flat terrain. On Mt. Roudi, the taxon grows above 800 m, and is rather uncommon. On Mt. Ainos, the taxon is quite common above 1100 m; below that altitude it has not been confirmed. The findings were more abundant on the NE slope of Mt. Ainos which is wetter and possibly cooler than the SW slope due to being shaded and more forested, less eroded, and with a deep organic layer. The main threat to the survival of the taxon is illegal grazing. The proposed Red List assessment according to IUCN is EN B1ab(iii)+2ab(iii). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Feeding the world's future population while still facing a variety of socioeconomic and climate change scenarios with uncertain outcomes is a key global societal concern that should be addressed in a science-based manner. Ethiopia boasts a great diversity of wild edible plant species (WEPS), but millions of its citizens still suffer from chronic hunger every year. In this context, we here document the use and conservation of WEPS in the Awi Agäw community, Northwestern Ethiopia. Methods: We performed a cross-sectional study from October 2021 to June 2022. Ethnobotanical and conservation status data were collected via semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions, field walks and market surveys. A total of 374 respondents from three districts (Guangua, Jawi and Ankasha) were purposely selected for the study. Descriptive statistics, including preference rankings, frequencies and direct matrix rankings, were employed for the data analysis. Results: We identified a total of 39 WEPS plant taxa distributed among 26 families and 32 genera. The Moraceae and Rosaceae had the greatest numbers of plants, with five and three species, respectively. The WEPS are regularly consumed in the study area to alleviate hunger. However, threats such as habitat loss, agricultural expansion, deforestation for firewood and other reasons, and pesticide use threaten WEPS availability. Conclusion: Therefore, community-based conservation interventions need to be encouraged to safeguard WEPS and associated traditional knowledge. Furthermore, nutritional quality analysis is recommended for the selection of promising WEPS candidates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Myocardial infarction (MI) poses a global public health challenge, often associated with elevated mortality rates and a grim prognosis. A crucial aspect of the inflammatory injury and healing process post-MI involves the dynamic differentiation of macrophages. A promising strategy to alleviate myocardial damage after MI is by modulating the inflammatory response and orchestrating the shift from pro-inflammatory (M1) to anti-inflammatory (M2) macrophages, aiming to achieve a reduced M1/M2 ratio. Nuanxinkang (NXK), a simplified herbal decoction, has demonstrated noteworthy cardioprotective, inflammation-regulating, and myocardial energy metabolism-regulating properties. Methods: In this study, we constructed an MI model by ligating coronary arteries to investigate the efficacy of NXK in improving ventricular remodeling and cardiac function. Mice were administered NXK (1.65 g/kg/d) or an equivalent volume of regular saline via gavage for 28 consecutive days, commencing the day after surgery. Then, we conducted echocardiography to assess the cardiac function, Masson staining to illustrate the extent of myocardial fibrosis, TUNEL staining to reveal myocardial apoptosis, and flow cytometry to analyze the polarization of M1 and M2 macrophages in the hearts. Besides, a lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced pro-inflammatory macrophage (M1) polarization model was implemented in RAW264.7 cells to elucidate the underlying mechanism of NXK in regulating macrophage polarization. RAW264.7 cells were pre-treated with or without NXK-containing serum. Oxidative stress was detected by MitoSox staining, followed by Seahorse energy metabolism assay to evaluate alterations in mitochondrial metabolic patterns and ATP production. Both In vivo and in vitro, HIF-1α and PDK1 were detected by fluorescent quantitative PCR and Western blotting. Results: In vivo, MI mice exhibited a decline in cardiac function, adverse ventricular remodeling, and an increase in glycolysis, coupled with M1-dominant polarization mediated by the HIF-1α/PDK1 axis. Notably, robust responses were evident with high-dose NXK treatment (1.65 g/kg/day), leading to a significant enhancement in cardiac function, inhibition of cardiac remodeling, and partial suppression of macrophage glycolysis and the inflammatory phenotype in MI mice. This effect was achieved through the modulation of the HIF-1α/PDK1 axis. In vitro, elevated levels of mitochondrial ROS production and glycolysis were observed in LPS-induced macrophages. Conversely, treatment with NXK notably reduced the oxidative stress damage induced by LPS and enhanced oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS). Furthermore, NXK demonstrated the ability to modify the energy metabolism and inflammatory characteristics of macrophages by modulating the HIF-1α/PDK1 axis. The influence of NXK on this axis was partially counteracted by the HIF-1α agonist DMOG. And NXK downregulated PDK1 expression, curtailed glycolysis, and reversed LPS-induced M1 polarization in macrophages, similar to the PDK1 inhibitor DCA. Conclusion: In conclusion, NXK protects against MI-induced cardiac remodeling by inducing metabolic reprogramming and phenotypic differentiation of macrophages, achieved through the modulation of the HIF-1α/PDK1 axis. This provides a novel and promising strategy for the treatment of MI. Highlights: Balancing the coordination between M1 and M2 macrophages emerges as a promising therapeutic strategy for addressing myocardial infarction. Metabolic reprogramming plays a crucial role in the activation and differentiation of macrophages. NXK formulation intricately regulates macrophage polarization through the HIF-1α/PDK1 axis within a metabolic-inflammatory network. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Satureja is an aromatic plant that is used for flavoring, perfume, and food manufacturing due to its pleasant essential oil. Modern medicine research revealed several biological activities of Satureja essential oil, including antifungal, antibacterial, antiviral, antioxidant, anticancer, and anti-inflammatory. However, the functional properties of Satureja fatty acid have not been explored. This study examined the fatty acid profile, lipid nutritional quality, antioxidant, anti-amylase, and anti-lipase capacities of Satureja. The efficiency of Satureja fatty acid on the anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory parameters in LPS-induced macrophage through the Nrf2/NF-kB/NADH oxidase pathway was examined. The whole lipid extract was prepared with chloroform/methanol/water solution. Fatty acids methyl ester from whole lipid extract were prepared with methanol/sulfuric acid reagent. The fatty acid profile was analyzed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Total antioxidant was determined by ABTS decolorization. Lipase and amylase activities were determined by monitoring the decomposition of p-nitrophenyl butyrate and starch. The macrophage cell line was grown in DMEM media in the presence of fatty acid. The hydrogen peroxide production in treated cells was monitored using the FOX reagent. NADH oxidase activity was measured by monitoring NADH breakdown. The expression of NOX, NF-kB, and NRF2, were tested in the treated cells by real-time PCR. The main components of the Satureja fatty acid were linolenic acid (24.67–37.32%), palmitic acid (10.65–20.29%), linoleic acid (8.31–13.39%), oleic acid (4.42–14.35%), stearic acid (2.76–8.77%) and palmitoleic acid (1.77–4.95%). Given the nutritional quality, omega-3 PUFA (23.58–37.32%), SFA (21.53–26.70%), omega-6 PUFA (10.86–16.14%), omega-9 MUFA (4.42–14.35%), and omega-7 MUFA (1.77–4.95%) comprise the majority of fatty acids. Satureja fatty acid has a promising unsaturation index (120.77–164.27), PUFA/MUFA (2.07–6.41), hypocholesterolemic index (2.44–3.47), health-promoting index (2.03–2.42), PUFA/SFA (1.37–1.94), nutritive value index (0.53–1.71), MUFA/SFA (0.30–0.80) omega-6/omega-3 (0.34–0.65), atherogenicity index (0.41–0.49), and thrombogenicity index (0.17–0.27). Satureja fatty acid displayed strong antioxidant capacity (with IC50 ranging from 354 to 428 µg/mL), anti-lipase capacity (with IC50 ranging from 354 to 428 µg/mL), and anti-amylase capacity (with IC50 ranging from 370 to 390 µg/mL). LPS induced the expression of NOX, NRF2, and NF-kB and the synthesis of hydrogen peroxide in macrophage cells. In LPS-stimulated macrophages, Satureja fatty acid reduced NOX expression, hydrogen peroxide, and NF-kB expression and increased NRF2 at 0.04 mg/mL. In conclusion, Satureja fatty acids have potent antioxidant, anti-amylase, anti-lipase, and anti-inflammatory activities. The mechanisms in lowering oxidative stress markers depended on down-regulating superoxide-producing enzymes at gene and protein levels. Satureja polyunsaturated omega-3 fatty acids could be recommended for healthy products combined with dietary therapy to treat obesity, diabetes, and oxidative stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: More than 20 million people are infected with L. loa, and around 40 million live in high or intermediate-risk areas in West- and Central Africa. Although loiasis is associated with significant morbidity and excess mortality, little is known about the perception of loiasis by affected communities. This study assessed the knowledge, attitudes, and practices in the rural population of Sindara, Gabon, a region characterized by high loiasis prevalence. Methods: A community-based cross-sectional survey was conducted in Gabon between January and June 2022. During systematic door-to-door visits, randomly selected inhabitants were invited to participate in this questionnaire based survey. Venous blood was collected at midday from all participants for microscopic detection of filarial infection and clinical signs of loiasis were assessed. Results: A total of 150 participants were recruited, of which 66% were infected by L. loa. While almost everyone had some knowledge about L. loa, 72% of the participants understood that L. loa is a parasitic worm. The transmission of L. loa via the deer fly was known to only 21% of participants. The most frequently mentioned clinical symptoms attributed to loiasis were itching (84%), eye worm migration (59%), and conjunctivitis-like symptoms (53%). Participants who experienced migratory loiasis had better knowledge of loiasis and considered it as more serious. Traditional and herbal medicine was reported most often as an available treatment option (72%). While the formal healthcare sector was mentioned as the preferred treatment provider, 60% of the reported infections were treated by traditional medical practitioners. Conclusion: Loiasis is in general well known by this community residing in a region of high L. loa transmission. Important gaps in knowledge were discovered foremost regarding the mode of transmission. The available healthcare system does not seem to provide adequate management for loiasis. Author summary: Loiasis is a filarial disease highly prevalent in parts of Western- and Central Africa. For a long time, the disease has been considered to be a relatively benign condition, but recent studies have shown that loiasis causes significant morbidity and excess mortality. In the present study, we investigated the perception of loiasis in a highly affected community in rural Gabon to better understand the community perspective on this infectious disease. While L. loa as a disease is known to most inhabitants, the mode of transmission and prevention modalities are only poorly understood. This lack of knowledge leaves the communities with inadequate means to prevent onward transmission of this filarial disease. The contribution from media, schools and healthcare institutions in providing information about loiasis is inadequate, and the available healthcare system is insufficient to provide the necessary care for loiasis. A better understanding of loiasis by the affected communities is desirable to empower inhabitants of high-transmission regions to better protect themselves from loiasis. Improved understanding of the disease by the healthcare sector is necessary to improve the management of loiasis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The restoration of cerebrovascular regulation and improvement of cerebral blood flow in ischaemic regions are crucial for improving the clinical prognosis after stroke. An-Gong-Niu-Huang-Wan (AGNHW) is a famous traditional compound Chinese medicine that has been used for over 220 years to treat acute ischaemic stroke; however, its role in the regulation of cerebral blood flow is still unclear. The aim of the present study was to investigate the regulatory effect of AGNHW on cerebral blood flow and microcirculation after ischaemic stroke and to elucidate the underlying mechanisms involved. Methods: Male C57BL/6 mice were subjected to distal middle cerebral artery occlusion (dMCAO) and randomly assigned to the sham, MCAO, or AGNHW groups. AGNHW was administered intragastrically 1 h after dMCAO. The rotarod test was utilized to evaluate behavioural function; TTC was used to determine the infarct volume; and ischaemic injury was assessed by detecting brain levels of SOD, MDA and NO. Then, cortical perfusion and acetazolamide-induced cerebrovascular reactivity were assessed using laser speckle contrast imaging, and the velocity and flux of red blood cells in cortical capillaries were detected using two-photon laser scanning microscopy. In addition, we employed RNA-Seq to identify variations in gene expression profiles and assessed endothelium-dependent changes in microcirculatory dysfunction by measuring vasoactive mediator levels. Results: AGNHW significantly increased cerebral blood flow, reduced the infarct volume, and promoted functional recovery after cerebral ischaemia. AGNHW increased the velocity and flux of red blood cells in capillaries and improved cerebrovascular reactivity in the ischaemic cortex. Furthermore, AGNHW regulated endothelium-dependent microcirculation, as evidenced by decreases in the expression of endothelins (Edn1, Edn3 and Ednrb) and the ratios of brain and serum TXB2/6-keto-PGF1α and ET-1/CGRP. Conclusions: AGNHW improved cerebral hypoperfusion, regulated cerebrovascular reactivity and attenuated microcirculatory dysfunction within the ischaemic cortex after stroke. This outstanding effect was achieved by modulating the expression of genes related to vascular endothelial cell function and regulating endothelium-dependent vasoactive mediators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Single-cell analysis, a rapidly evolving field, encounters significant challenges in detecting individual cells within complex plant tissues, particularly oil cells (OCs). The intricate process of single-cell isolation, coupled with the inherent chemical volatility of oil cells, necessitates a comprehensive methodology. Results: This study presents a method for obtaining intact OC from Asari Radix et Rhizoma (ARR), a traditional herbal medicine. The developed approach facilitates both qualitative and quantitative analysis of diverse OCs. To determine the most reliable approach, four practical methods—laser capture microdissection, micromanipulation capturing, micromanipulation piping, and cell picking—were systematically compared and evaluated, unequivocally establishing cell picking as the most effective method for OC isolation and chemical analysis. Microscopic observations showed that OCs predominantly distribute in the cortex of adventitious and fibrous roots, as well as the pith and cortex of the rhizome, with distinct morphologies—oblong in roots and circular in rhizomes. Sixty-three volatile constituents were identified in OCs, with eighteen compounds exhibiting significant differences. Safrole, methyleugenol, and asaricin emerged as the most abundant constituents in OCs. Notably, cis-4-thujanol and tetramethylpyrazine were exclusive to rhizome OCs, while isoeugenol methyl ether was specific to fibrous root OCs based on the detections. ARR roots and rhizomes displayed marked disparities in OC distribution, morphology, and constituents. Conclusion: The study highlights the efficacy of cell picking coupled with HS–SPME–GC–MS as a flexible, reliable, and sensitive method for OC isolation and chemical analysis, providing a robust methodology for future endeavors in single-cell analyses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The Baiku Yao, primarily residing in Guangxi and Guizhou provinces of China, is a distinctive branch of the Yao ethnic group, known for their profound cultural preservation and unique ethnobotanical knowledge. This study investigates the Baiku Yao community's utilization of traditional food plants, focusing on the relationship between their dietary practices and the local biodiversity within their mountainous living environment. It aims to illuminate the cultural significance and survival strategies embedded in their ethnobotanical knowledge, highlighting the potential for sustainable living and biodiversity conservation. Methods: Through ethnobotanical surveys, key informant interviews, and quantitative analysis techniques such as the cultural food significance index (CFSI) and relative frequency of citations (RFC), this research systematically documents the diversity and cultural importance of edible plants in the Baiku Yao community. The study assesses how these plants contribute to the community's diet, traditional medicine, and overall cultural practices. Results: A total of 195 traditional edible plants were documented, belonging to 142 genera and 68 families, with a significant concentration in certain families such as Asteraceae, Rosaceae, and Fabaceae. The Baiku Yao diet prominently features herbaceous plants, with wild (103 species) and cultivated (89 species) varieties as diverse food sources. They utilize various plant parts, particularly fruits and leaves, for multiple purposes, including nutrition, medicine, and fodder. Their processing techniques, from raw to fermented, showcase a rich culinary tradition and emphasize a holistic use of plants for enhancing diet and health in a concise overview. The RFC and CFSI analyses reveal a deep cultural reliance on a variety of plant species, with a notable emphasis on vegetables, fruits, spices, and medicinal herbs. Specific plants like Zingiber officinale, Zea mays, and Oryza sativa were highlighted for their high cultural significance. The study also uncovers the multifunctional use of these plants, not only as food but also for medicinal purposes, fodder, and other cultural applications, reflecting the Baiku Yao's profound ecological wisdom and their harmonious coexistence with nature. Conclusion: The findings emphasize the rich ethnobotanical knowledge possessed by the Baiku Yao, underscoring the importance of documenting, safeguarding, and transmitting this invaluable traditional knowledge. This study contributes to a deeper understanding of cultural heritage and biodiversity conservation, advocating for concerted efforts to protect such traditional practices against the threats of modernization and cultural erosion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As links between genotype and phenotype, small-molecule metabolites are attractive biomarkers for disease diagnosis, prognosis, classification, drug screening and treatment, insight into understanding disease pathology and identifying potential targets. Metabolomics technology is crucial for discovering targets of small-molecule metabolites involved in disease phenotype. Mass spectrometry-based metabolomics has implemented in applications in various fields including target discovery, explanation of disease mechanisms and compound screening. It is used to analyze the physiological or pathological states of the organism by investigating the changes in endogenous small-molecule metabolites and associated metabolism from complex metabolic pathways in biological samples. The present review provides a critical update of high-throughput functional metabolomics techniques and diverse applications, and recommends the use of mass spectrometry-based metabolomics for discovering small-molecule metabolite signatures that provide valuable insights into metabolic targets. We also recommend using mass spectrometry-based metabolomics as a powerful tool for identifying and understanding metabolic patterns, metabolic targets and for efficacy evaluation of herbal medicine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of herbal medicine and acupuncture combination for pediatric epilepsy treatment. Methods: Databases were searched from their interception until October 2023 to identify randomized controlled trials focusing on the therapeutic efficacy of herbal medicine-acupuncture combination (intervention group) for pediatric epilepsy. The primary outcome was the risk of treatment failure, whereas the secondary outcomes included the risk of post-treatment electroencephalogram (EEG) abnormalities and adverse events. Subgroup analyses were conducted based on the type of herbal compound formulas. Meta-regression analysis was conducted to examine the influence of patient demographics and clinical history on the therapeutic efficacy of herbal medicine-acupuncture combination for pediatric epilepsy. To assess the cumulative evidence, trial sequential analysis (TSA) was performed. Results: The analysis included 10 trials involving a total of 882 pediatric patients. Meta-analysis revealed that the intervention group had a lower risk of treatment failure than the control group (risk ratio [RR] = 0.3, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.19–0.47, P<0.00001, I2 = 0%, 10 trials). Subgroup analyses showed that therapeutic efficacy was consistent among the different herbal compound formulas. Meta-regression analysis revealed that the efficacy of the treatments did not significantly vary with patient age, male sex, and duration of seizure history. TSA suggested that herbal medicine-acupuncture combination exerted a robust and conclusive effect on seizure treatment. Although the combined used of herbal medicine and acupuncture was not associated with a lower risk of post-treatment EEG abnormalities (RR = 0.82, 95%CI:0.6–1.11, P = 0.2, 3 trials), the risk of adverse events was reduced (RR = 0.27, 95%CI:0.18–0.41, P<0.00001, 4 trials). Conclusion: The meta-analysis suggested that combined use of herbal medicine and acupuncture is a promising and safe clinical approach for pediatric epilepsy treatment. Further large-scale studies are necessary to conclusively determine the efficacy and safety of herbal medicine and acupuncture in pediatric epilepsy treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Both the size of the older population and the use of complementary and alternative medicine are increasing worldwide. This study evaluated the long-term trend in utilization of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and associated factors among older people in Taiwan. Methods: Using the database of population-based interview surveys, we evaluated the one-month prevalence of TCM use among 13,945 older people aged over 65 years from 2001–2017. The sociodemographic status and medical comorbidities of older people who did and did not use TCM were compared by calculating adjusted odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) in the multiple logistic regressions. Results: The one-month prevalence of TCM use increased from 5.5% in 2001 to 9.1% in 2017 among older people in Taiwan. Overall, 7.3% of older people had used TCM within the previous month. People with a history of heart disease (OR 1.62, 95% CI 1.24–2.12), use of folk therapy (OR 3.16, 95% CI 2.00–4.99), and purchase of non-prescribed Chinese herbal medicine (OR 2.08, 95% CI 1.48–2.91) were more likely to use TCM than the comparison group. However, age ≥80 years (OR 0.48, 95% CI 0.31–0.72) and previous hospitalization (OR 0.59, 95% CI 0.41–0.85) were associated with the reduced use of TCM. Conclusion: From 2001–2017, the use of TCM increased in the older population in Taiwan. The use of folk medicine and purchase of non-prescribed Chinese herbal medicine were significant predictors for the use of TCM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Thesium chinense Turcz. (Named as Bai Rui Cao in Chinese) and its preparations (e.g., Bairui Granules) have been used to treat inflammatory diseases, such as acute mastitis, lobar pneumonia, tonsillitis, coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), and upper respiratory tract infection. However, the material basis, pharmacological efficiency, and safety have not been illustrated. Methods: Anti-inflammatory activity-guided isolation of constituents has been performed using multiple column chromatography, and their structures were elucidated by NMR spectroscopy and ECD calculations. The inhibitory effects on lung inflammation and safety of the crude ethanol extract (CE), Bairui Granules (BG), and the purified active constituents were evaluated using lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated acute lung inflammation (ALI) mice model or normal mice. Results: Seven new compounds (1–7) and fifty-six known compounds (8–63) were isolated from T. chinense, and fifty-four were reported from this plant for the first time. The new flavonoid glycosides 1–2, new fatty acids 4–5, new alkaloid 7 as well as the known constituents including flavonoid aglycones 8–11, lignans 46–54, alkaloids 34 and 45, coumarins 57, phenylpropionic acids 27, and simple aromatic compounds 39, 44 and 58 exhibited anti-inflammatory activity. Network pharmacology analysis indicated that anti-inflammation of T. chinense was attributed to flavonoids and alkaloids by regulating inflammation-related proteins (e.g., TNF, NF-κB, TGF-β). Furthermore, constituents of T. chinense including kaempferol-3-O-glucorhamnoside (KN, also named as Bairuisu I, 19), astragalin (AG, Bairuisu II, 12), and kaempferol (KF, Bairuisu III, 8), as well as CE and BG could alleviate lung inflammation caused by LPS in mice by preventing neutrophils infiltration and the expression of the genes for pro-inflammatory cytokines NLRP3, caspase-1, IL-1β, and COX-2. After a 28-day subacute toxicity test, BG at doses of 4.875 g/kg and 9.750 g/kg (equivalent to onefold and twofold the clinically recommended dose) and CE at a dose of 11.138 g/kg (equivalent to fourfold the clinical dose of BG) were found to be safe and non-toxic. Conclusions: The discovery of sixty-three constituents comprehensively illustrated the material basis of T. chinense. T. chinense and Bairui Granules could alleviate lung inflammation by regulating inflammation-related proteins and no toxicity was observed under the twofold of clinically used doses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has been garnering ever-increasing worldwide attention as the herbal extracts and formulas prove to have potency against disease. Fuzhengjiedu San (FZJDS), has been extensively used to treat viral diseases in pigs, but its bioactive components and therapeutic mechanisms remain unclear. Methods: In this study, we conducted an integrative approach of network pharmacology and experimental study to elucidate the mechanisms underlying FZJDS's action in treating porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV). We constructed PPI network and screened the core targets according to their degree of value. GO and KEGG enrichment analyses were also carried out to identify relevant pathways. Lastly, qRT-PCR, flow cytometry and western blotting were used to determine the effects of FZJDS on core gene expression in PRRSV-infected monkey kidney (MARC-145) cells to further expand the results of network pharmacological analysis. Results: Network pharmacology data revealed that quercetin, kaempferol, and luteolin were the main active compounds of FZJDS. The phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt pathway was deemed the cellular target as it has been shown to participate most in PRRSV replication and other PRRSV-related functions. Analysis by qRT-PCR and western blotting demonstrated that FZJDS significantly reduced the expression of P65, JNK, TLR4, N protein, Bax and IĸBa in MARC-145 cells, and increased the expression of Bcl-2, consistent with network pharmacology results. This study provides that FZJDS has significant antiviral activity through its effects on the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. Conclusion: We conclude that FZJDS is a promising candidate herbal formulation for treating PRRSV and deserves further investigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cimicifugae Rhizoma, generally known as "Sheng Ma" in China, has great medicinal and dietary values. Cimicifugae Rhizoma is the dried rhizome of Cimicifuga foetida L., Cimicifuga dahurica (Turcz.) Maxim. and Cimicifuga heracleifolia Kom., which has been used to treat wind-heat headache, tooth pain, aphtha, sore throat, prolapse of anus and uterine prolapse in traditional Chinese medicine. This review systematically presents the traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacology, clinical studies, quality control and toxicity of Cimicifugae Rhizoma in order to propose scientific evidence for its rational utilization and product development. Herein, 348 compounds isolated or identified from the herb are summarized in this review, mainly including triterpenoid saponins, phenylpropanoids, chromones, alkaloids, terpenoids and flavonoids. The crude extracts and its constituents had various pharmacological properties such as anti-inflammatory, antitumor, antiviral, antioxidant, neuroprotective, anti-osteoporosis and relieving menopausal symptoms. The recent research progress of Cimicifugae Rhizoma in ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry and pharmacological effects demonstrates the effectiveness of its utilization and supplies valuable guidance for further research. This review will provide a basis for the future development and utilization of Cimicifugae Rhizoma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Toxoplasma gondii is a highly prevalent pathogen, reported from almost all geographical regions of the world. Current anti‐T. gondii drugs are not effective enough in immunocompromised patients, encephalitis, chorioretinitis, and congenital toxoplasmosis. Therefore, the prescription of these drugs has been limited. Rose hip oil (RhO) is a natural plant compound, which shows antibacterial, anticancer, and anti‐inflammatory activities. In the current study, the anti‐T. gondii and cell toxicity effects of solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) loaded by RhO (RhO‐SLNs) were evaluated. Emulsification sonicated‐homogenization method was used to prepare SLNs. RhO‐SLNs were characterized, and their anti‐T. gondii and cell toxicity effects were evaluated using in vitro analyses. The particle size and the zeta potential of the nanoparticles were 152.09 nm and −15.3 mV nm, respectively. The entrapment efficiency percentage was 79.1%. In the present study, the inhibitory concentration (IC)50 against T. gondii was >1 μg/mL (p‐value <.0001). The cell toxicity assay showed cytotoxicity concentration (CC)50 >10 mg/mL (p‐value =.017). In addition, at least 75% of T. gondii‐infected Vero cells remained alive at concentrations >10 mg/mL. The concentration of 1 mg/mL showed highest anti‐Toxoplasma activity and lowest cell toxicity against the Vero cell. Our findings suggest that carrying natural plant compounds with SLNs could be considered an effective option for treatment strategies against T. gondii infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herbal medicines are widely used for clinical purposes worldwide. These herbs are susceptible to phytopathogenic fungal invasion during the culturing, harvesting, storage, and processing stages. The threat of fungal and mycotoxin contamination requires the evaluation of the health risks associated with these herbal medicines. In this study, we collected 138 samples of 23 commonly used herbs from 20 regions in China, from which we isolated a total of 200 phytopathogenic fungi. Through morphological observation and ITS sequencing, 173 fungal isolates were identified and classified into 24 genera, of which the predominant genera were Fusarium (27.74%) and Alternaria (20.81%), followed by Epicoccum (11.56%), Nigrospora (7.51%), and Trichocladium (6.84%). Quantitative analysis of the abundance of both Fusarium and Alternaria in herbal medicines via RT-qPCR revealed that the most abundant fungi were found on the herb Taraxacum mongolicum, reaching 300,000 copies/μL for Fusarium and 700 copies/μL for Alternaria. The in vitro mycotoxin productivities of the isolated Fusarium and Alternaria strains were evaluated by using liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS), and it was found that the Fusarium species mainly produced the acetyl forms of deoxynivalenol, while Alternaria species mainly produced altertoxins. These findings revealed widely distributed fungal contamination in herbal medicines and thus raise concerns for the sake of the quality and safety of herbal medicines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

"Ganghwal" is a widely used herbal medicine in Republic of Korea, but it has not been reported as a treatment strategy for obesity and diabetes within adipocytes. In this study, we determined that Ostericum koreanum extract (OKE) exerts an anti-obesity effect by inhibiting adipogenesis and an anti-diabetic effect by increasing the expression of genes related to glucose uptake in adipocytes and inhibiting α-glucosidase activity. 3T3-L1 preadipocytes were differentiated for 8 days in methylisobutylxanthine, dexamethasone, and insulin medium, and the effect of OKE was confirmed by the addition of 50 and 100 µg/mL of OKE during the differentiation process. This resulted in a reduction in lipid accumulation and the expression of PPARγ (Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ) and C/EBPα (CCAAT enhancer binding protein α). Significant activation of AMPK (AMP-activated protein kinase), increased expression of GLUT4 (Glucose Transporter Type 4), and inhibition of α-glucosidase activity were also observed. These findings provide the basis for the anti-obesity and anti-diabetic effects of OKE. In addition, OKE has a significant antioxidant effect. This study presents OKE as a potential natural product-derived material for the treatment of patients with metabolic diseases such as obesity- and obesity-induced diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oxytocin, a significant pleiotropic neuropeptide, regulates psychological stress adaptation and social communication, as well as peripheral actions, such as uterine contraction and milk ejection. Recently, a Japanese Kampo medicine called Kamikihito (KKT) has been reported to stimulate oxytocin neurons to induce oxytocin secretion. Two-pore-domain potassium channels (K2P) regulate the resting potential of excitable cells, and their inhibition results in accelerated depolarization that elicits neuronal and endocrine cell activation. We assessed the effects of KKT and 14 of its components on a specific K2P, the potassium channel subfamily K member 2 (TREK-1), which is predominantly expressed in oxytocin neurons in the central nervous system (CNS). KKT inhibited the activity of TREK-1 induced via the channel activator ML335. Six of the 14 components of KKT inhibited TREK-1 activity. Additionally, we identified that 22 of the 41 compounds in the six components exhibited TREK-1 inhibitory effects. In summary, several compounds included in KKT partially activated oxytocin neurons by inhibiting TREK-1. The pharmacological effects of KKT, including antistress effects, may be partially mediated through the oxytocin pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One-step carbonization was explored to prepare biochar using the residue of a traditional Chinese herbal medicine, Atropa belladonna L. (ABL), as the raw material. The resulting biochar, known as ABLB4, was evaluated for its potential as a sustainable material for norfloxacin (NOR) adsorption in water. Subsequently, a comprehensive analysis of adsorption isotherms, kinetics, and thermodynamics was conducted through batch adsorption experiments. The maximum calculated NOR adsorption capacity was 252.0 mg/g at 298 K, and the spontaneous and exothermic adsorption of NOR on ABLB4 could be better suited to a pseudo-first-order kinetic model and Langmuir model. The adsorption process observed is influenced by pore diffusion, π–π interaction, electrostatic interaction, and hydrogen bonding between ABLB4 and NOR molecules. Moreover, the utilization of response surface modeling (RSM) facilitated the optimization of the removal efficiency of NOR, yielding a maximum removal rate of 97.4% at a temperature of 304.8 K, an initial concentration of 67.1 mg/L, and a pH of 7.4. Furthermore, the biochar demonstrated favorable economic advantages, with a payback of 852.5 USD/t. More importantly, even after undergoing five cycles, ABLB4 exhibited a consistently high NOR removal rate, indicating its significant potential for application in NOR adsorption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Allergic rhinitis (AR) is a systemic allergic disease that has a considerable impact on patients' quality of life. Current treatments include antihistamines and nasal steroids; however, their long-term use often causes undesirable side effects. In this context, traditional Asian medicine (TAM), with its multi-compound, multi-target herbal medicines (medicinal plants), offers a promising alternative. However, the complexity of these multi-compound traits poses challenges in understanding the overall mechanisms and efficacy of herbal medicines. Here, we demonstrate the efficacy and underlying mechanisms of these multi-compound herbal medicines specifically used for AR at a systemic level. We utilized a modified term frequency–inverse document frequency method to select AR-specific herbs and constructed an herb–compound–target network using reliable databases and computational methods, such as the Quantitative Estimate of Drug-likeness for compound filtering, STITCH database for compound-target interaction prediction (with a high confidence score threshold of 0.7), and DisGeNET and CTD databases for disease-gene association analysis. Through this network, we conducted AR-related targets and pathway analyses, as well as clustering analysis based on target-level information of the herbs. Gene ontology enrichment analysis was conducted using a protein–protein interaction network. Our research identified 14 AR-specific herbs and analyzed whether AR-specific herbs are highly related to previously known AR-related genes and pathways. AR-specific herbs were found to target several genes related to inflammation and AR pathogenesis, such as PTGS2, HRH1, and TBXA2R. Pathway analysis revealed that AR-specific herbs were associated with multiple AR-related pathways, including cytokine signaling, immune response, and allergic inflammation. Additionally, clustering analysis based on target similarity identified three distinct subgroups of AR-specific herbs, corroborated by a protein–protein interaction network. Group 1 herbs were associated with the regulation of inflammatory responses to antigenic stimuli, while Group 2 herbs were related to the detection of chemical stimuli involved in the sensory perception of bitter taste. Group 3 herbs were distinctly associated with antigen processing and presentation and NIK/NF-kappa B signaling. This study decodes the principles of TAM herbal configurations for AR using a network pharmacological approach, providing a holistic understanding of drug effects beyond specific pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The growing popularity of herbal medicine raises concerns about potential nephrotoxicity risks, while limited evidence hinders a comprehensive impact assessment. This study aims to investigate the overall risk features of herbal medicine on kidney injury. We conducted a retrospective analysis on renal function changes, including blood urea nitrogen (BUN), serum creatinine, and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), through data from six randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in South Korea. A total of 407 participants (142 males, 265 females) received either one of four different herbal medicines (240 participants) or a placebo (167 participants). When comparing changes in eGFR regarding the mean, 90th-percentile value, and 20% reduction after treatment, there was no significant difference between the herbal-treated and placebo groups. This study provided a helpful reference for examining the safety issues of herbal remedies, especially regarding kidney function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many different herbal extracts have historically been utilized to treat microbe-induced infections, injuries, cancer, thrombosis, and arthritis. The purpose of this study was to determine the antibacterial, cytotoxic, in vitro thrombolytic, and in vitro antiarthritic properties of ethanolic extracts of stem and seed of Bari orchid 1 (BO) plant. This orchid plant was developed by the Bangladesh Agriculture Research Institute (BARI) in Gazipur. Fourteen microbes were employed in the antimicrobial investigation, and samples of orchids were compared to ciprofloxacin as a reference. The BO/seed extract was found to possess more antibacterial activity. The lethality test of brine shrimps was used to assess the LC50 values. The BO/stem extract exhibited a higher cytotoxicity potential, in comparison to the BO/seed extract. Two concentrations (1000 and 100 ppm) and two incubation times (24 hours and 1.5 hours) were used to assess the thrombolytic activity of the extracts. Regarding the thrombolytic effect, the BO/stem extract has demonstrated greater promise. Furthermore, the herbal extract's antiarthritic activity was investigated at four different concentrations, and the results were evaluated in comparison with those of diclofenac sodium. When comparing BO/stem extract to other extracts, the greatest values for protein denaturation were obtained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Poria sini decoction (PSD), a significant traditional Chinese herbal formula, is effective in liver cancer (LC) and chronic heart failure (CHF); however, little is known about its concurrent targeting mechanism. Methods. This study analyzed the potential molecular mechanism of PSD against the two distinct diseases using network pharmacology approaches, including multidatabase search, pharmacokinetic screening, network construction analysis, Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment analysis, Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis, and molecular docking to elaborate the active components, signaling pathways, and potential mechanisms of PSD in the treatment of both LC and CHF. Results. A total of 155 active components and 193 potential targets in PSD were identified. Bioinformatics analysis revealed that quercetin, isorhamnetin, and naringenin, etc. may be potential candidate agents. TNF, AKT1, and IL6, etc. could become potential therapeutic targets. TNF-α, NF-κB, PI3K-AKT, and TRP signaling pathways might play an important role in PSD against LC and CHF. Molecular docking results showed that most screened active compounds could embed itself into target proteins with a high binding affinity, and the hydrogen bonds number ≥3 indicated a more stable conformation of the compounds and target proteins. Overall, quercetin and isorhamnetin were the main active components, and TNF and AKT1 were the primary targets for PSD treatment of LC and CHF. Conclusions. This study illustrated that quercetin contained in PSD played an important role in the treatment of LC and CHF by acting on the key gene of TP53 and downregulating the PI3K-AKT signaling pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: People living with HIV (PLWH) are at increased risk of cardiometabolic disorders (CMD). Adequate access to care for both HIV and CMD is crucial to improving health outcomes; however, there is limited research that have examined couples' experiences accessing such care in resource-constrained settings. We aimed to identify barriers to accessing CMD care among PLWH in Malawi and the role of partners in mitigating these barriers. Methods: We conducted a qualitative investigation of barriers to CMD care among 25 couples in Malawi. Couples were eligible if at least one partner was living with HIV and had hypertension or diabetes (i.e., the index patient). Index patients were recruited from HIV care clinics in the Zomba district, and their partners were enrolled thereafter. Interviews were conducted separately with both partners to determine barriers to CMD care access and how partners were involved in care. Results: Participants framed their experiences with CMD care by making comparisons to HIV treatment, which was free and consistently available. The main barriers to accessing CMD care included shortage of medications, cost of tests and treatments, high cost of transportation to health facilities, lengthy wait times at health facilities, faulty or unavailable medical equipment and supplies, inadequate monitoring of patients' health conditions, some cultural beliefs about causes of illness, use of herbal therapies as an alternative to prescribed medicine, and inadequate knowledge about CMD treatments. Partners provided support through decision-making on accessing medical care, assisting partners in navigating the healthcare system, and providing financial assistance with transportation and treatment expenses. Partners also helped manage care for CMD, including communicating health information to their partners, providing appointment reminders, supporting medication adherence, and supporting recommended lifestyle behaviors. Conclusions: Couples identified many barriers to CMD care access, which were perceived as greater challenges than HIV care. Partners provided critical forms of support in navigating these barriers. With the rise of CMD among PLWH, improving access to CMD care should be prioritized, using lessons learned from HIV and integrated care approaches. Partner involvement in CMD care may help mitigate most barriers to CMD care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: As one of the most famous natural products, salvianolic acid A (SAA) is undergoing clinical trials for the treatments of angina pectoris and coronary heart disorders. However, the in vivo metabolites of SAA have only been tentatively identified, leading to a barrier for precise therapeutical drug monitoring. Methods: Ultra-high performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time of flight tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC–Qtof-MS/MS) was firstly employed to acquire high-resolution MS1 and MS2 spectra for all metabolites. Through paying special attention onto the features of ester bond dissociation, metabolism sites were restricted at certain regions. To further determine the metabolism site, such as the monomethylated products (M23, M25, and M26), post collision-induced dissociation energy-resolved mass spectrometry (post-CID ER-MS) was proposed through programming progressive exciting energies to the second collision chamber of hybrid triple quadrupole-linear ion trap mass spectrometry (Qtrap-MS) device. Results: After SAA oral administration, 29 metabolites (M1–M29), including five, thirteen, and sixteen ones in rat plasma, urine, and feces, respectively, were detected in rats. The metabolism route was initially determined by applying well-defined mass fragmentation pathways to those HR-m/z values of precursor and fragment ions. Metabolism site was limited to SAF- or DSS-unit based on the fragmentation patterns of ester functional group. Through matching the dissociation trajectories of concerned 1st-generation fragment ions with expected decomposition product anions using post-CID ER-MS strategy, M23 and M25 were unequivocally assigned as 3'-methyl-SAA and 3''-methyl-SAA, and M26 was identified as 2-methyl-SAA or 3-methyl-SAA. Hydrolysis, methylation, glucuronidation, sulfation, and oxidation were the primary metabolism channels being responsible for the metabolites' generation. Conclusion: Together, the metabolism regions and sites of SAA metabolites were sequentially identified based on the ester bond dissociation features and post-CID ER-MS strategy. Importantly, the present study provided a promising way to elevate the structural identification confidence of natural products and metabolites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Chelidonium majus is a well-known traditional Chinese medicine, and has been reported of the effect in relieving cough and asthma. However, the mechanism of action is still unknown. Methods: Asthmatic SD rats were first sensitized and established through ovalbumin (OVA) motivation. Subsequently, Hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining, Masson's trichrome (Masson) staining, Periodic acid-Schiff (PAS) staining and inflammatory cytokines assay of interleukin (IL)-4, IL-6, IL-17 were implemented to evaluate the protective effects of Chelidonium majus on asthma. Then, the effects of Chelidonium majus and their molecular mechanisms of action on asthma were detected based on the integration of transcriptomics and metabolomics analyses. Results: After administration with Chelidonium majus, the histological injuries of inflammation, collagen deposition and mucus secretion in lungs were attenuated and the serum inflammatory cytokines perturbations were also converted. Furthermore, integrated analysis revealed that after Chelidonium majus treatment, 7 different expression genes (DEGs) (Alox15, P4ha1, Pla2g16, Pde3a, Nme1, Entpd8 and Adcy9) and 9 metabolic biomarkers (ADP, Xanthosine, Hypoxanthine, Inosine, prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), prostaglandin F2a (PGF2a), phosphatidylserine, Creatine and LysoPC (10:0)) were discovered to be connected with the enrichment metabolic pathways, including Purine metabolism, Arachidonic acid metabolism, Arginine and proline metabolism and Glycerophospholipid metabolism. The obtained metabolic biomarkers and DEGs were mainly related to energy metabolism and inflammation, and may be potential therapeutic targets. Conclusion: Chelidonium majus relieved OVA-induced asthma in rats by regulating the Alox15, P4ha1, Pla2g16, Pde3a, Nme1, Entpd8 and Adcy9 genes expression to restore the disorders in energy metabolism and inflammation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Advanced cancer patients with good Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance status (score 0–1) are underrepresented in current qualitative reports compared with their dying counterparts. Aim: To explore the experiences and care needs of advanced cancer patients with good ECOG. Design: A qualitative phenomenological approach using semi-structured interview was employed. Data was analyzed using the Colaizzi's method. Setting/Participants: Purposive sample of terminal solid cancer patients on palliative care aged 18–70 years with a 0–1 ECOG score were recruited from a tertiary general hospital. Results: Sixteen participants were interviewed. Seven themes were generated from the transcripts, including experiencing no or mild symptoms; independence in self-care, decision-making, and financial capacity; prioritization of cancer growth suppression over symptom management; financial concerns; hope for prognosis and life; reluctance to discuss death and after-death arrangements; and use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) and religious coping. Conclusions: Advanced cancer patients with good ECOG have distinct experiences and care needs from their dying counterparts. They tend to experience no or mild symptoms, demonstrate a strong sense of independence, and prioritize cancer suppression over symptom management. Financial concerns were common and impact their care-related decision-making. Though being hopeful for their prognosis and life, many are reluctant to discuss death and after-death arrangements. Many Chinese patients use herbal medicine as a CAM modality but need improved awareness of and accessibility to treatment options. Healthcare professionals and policy-makers should recognize their unique experiences and needs when tailoring care strategies and policies. Key statements: What is already known about the topic? • Even in their advanced stage, cancer patients with good ECOG performance status are capable of self-care and less reliant on care provided by other. • Existing qualitative research mainly focuses on advanced cancer patients with poor ECOG, emphasizing pain management, emotional distress, and palliative care. What this paper adds? • Our findings reveal distinct experiences and care needs of advanced cancer patients with good ECOG performance status from their dying counterparts. Implications for practice, theory or policy. • Healthcare professionals should recognize and address the patient group's distinct needs. • Future research should further investigate their symptom trajectory, influencing factors, and care needs to fill the gap in their cancer journey. • Policy-makers should develop tailored policies that consider good ECOG performance status. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Astragali radix is a traditional medicinal herb with a long history and wide application. It is frequently used in prescriptions with other medicinal materials to replenish Qi. According to the classics of traditional Chinese medicine, Astragali radix is attributed with properties such as Qi replenishing and surface solidifying, sore healing and muscle generating, and inducing diuresis to reduce edema. Modern pharmacological studies have demonstrated that some extracts and active ingredients in Astragali radix function as antioxidants. The polysaccharides, saponins, and flavonoids in Astragali radix offer beneficial effects in preventing and controlling diseases caused by oxidative stress. However, there is still a lack of comprehensive research on the effective components and molecular mechanisms through which Astragali radix exerts antioxidant activity. In this paper, we review the active components with antioxidant effects in Astragali radix; summarize the content, bioavailability, and antioxidant mechanisms; and offer a reference for the clinical application of Astragalus and the future development of novel antioxidants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Initiation of ART among people living with HIV (PLWH) having a CD4 count ≤ 350cells/µl, produces poor immunological recovery, putting them at a high risk of opportunistic infections. To mitigate this, PLWH on ART in Uganda frequently use herbal remedies like Artemisia annua and Moringa oleifera, but their clinical benefits and potential antiretroviral (ARV) interactions remain unknown. This study examined the impact of A. annua and M. oleifera on CD4 count, viral load, and potential ARV interactions among PLWH on ART at an HIV clinic in Uganda. Methods: 282 HIV-positive participants on antiretroviral therapy (ART) with a CD4 count ≤ 350cells/µl were randomized in a double-blind clinical trial to receive daily, in addition to their routine standard of care either; 1) A. annua leaf powder, 2) A. annua plus M. oleifera, and 3) routine standard of care only. Change in the CD4 count at 12 months was our primary outcome. Secondary outcomes included changes in viral load, complete blood count, and ARV plasma levels. Participants were followed up for a year and outcomes were measured at baseline, 6 and 12 months. Results: At 12 months of patient follow-up, in addition to standard of care, administration of A. annua + M. oleifera resulted in an absolute mean CD4 increment of 105.06 cells/µl, (p < 0.001), while administration of A. annua plus routine standard of care registered an absolute mean CD4 increment of 60.84 cells/µl, (p = 0.001) compared to the control group. The A. annua plus M. oleifera treatment significantly reduced viral load (p = 0.022) and increased platelet count (p = 0.025) and white blood cell counts (p = 0.003) compared to standard care alone, with no significant difference in ARV plasma levels across the groups. Conclusion: A combination of A. annua and M. oleifera leaf powders taken once a day together with the routine standard of care produced a significant increase in CD4 count, WBCs, platelets, and viral load suppression among individuals on ART. A. annua and M. oleifera have potential to offer an affordable alternative remedy for managing HIV infection, particularly in low-resource communities lacking ART access. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03366922. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herbal medicine is popularly used among patients who suffer from allergic rhinitis. This systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted to evaluate the efficacy and safety of single medicinal plants in the management of allergic rhinitis. We searched MEDLINE, CENTRAL, and Web of Science for randomised controlled trials which evaluated the use of single medicinal plant for allergic rhinitis among adults and children. Twenty-nine randomised controlled trials (n = 1879) were eligible while 27 (n = 1769) contributed data for meta-analyses. Most studies (studies = 20) compared medicinal plants against placebo and Petasites hybridus was most frequently investigated (studies = 5). Very-low-to-low-certainty evidence suggests that compared to placebo, single medicinal plants may improve overall total nasal symptoms (SMD -0.31, 95% CI -0.59 to -0.02; participants = 249; studies = 5; I2 = 21%) especially nasal congestion and sneezing; and rhinoconjunctivitis quality of life (RQLQ) scores (MD -0.46, 95% CI -0.84 to -0.07; participants = 148; studies = 3; I2 = 0%). Moderate-certainty evidence show no clear differences between single medicinal plants and antihistamine in overall symptoms (Total nasal symptoms: SMD -0.14, 95% CI -0.46 to 0.18; participants = 149; studies = 2; I2 = 0%). As adjunctive therapy, moderate-certainty evidence shows that medicinal plants improved SNOT-22 scores when given as intranasal treatment (MD -7.47, 95% CI -10.75 to -4.18; participants = 124; studies = 2; I2 = 21%). Risk of bias domains were low or not clearly reported in most studies while heterogeneity was substantial in most pooled outcomes. Route of administration and age were identified to be plausible source of heterogeneity for certain outcomes. Medicinal plants appear to be well tolerated up to 8 weeks of use. Clear beneficial evidence of medicinal plants for allergic rhinitis is still lacking. There is a need for improved reporting of herbal trials to allow for critical assessment of the effects of each individual medicinal plant preparation in well-designed future clinical studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Chronic inflammation and metabolic dysfunction are key features of systemic aging, closely associated with the development and progression of age-related metabolic diseases. Bazi Bushen (BZBS), a traditional Chinese medicine used to alleviate frailty, delays biological aging by modulating DNA methylation levels. However, the precise mechanism of its anti-aging effect remains unclear. In this study, we developed the Energy Expenditure Aging Index (EEAI) to estimate biological age. By integrating the EEAI with transcriptome analysis, we aimed to explore the impact of BZBS on age-related metabolic dysregulation and inflammation in naturally aging mice. Methods: We conducted indirect calorimetry analysis on five groups of mice with different ages and utilized the data to construct EEAI. 12 -month-old C57BL/6 J mice were treated with BZBS or β-Nicotinamide Mononucleotide (NMN) for 8 months. Micro-CT, Oil Red O staining, indirect calorimetry, RNA sequencing, bioinformatics analysis, and qRT-PCR were performed to investigate the regulatory effects of BZBS on energy metabolism, glycolipid metabolism, and inflammaging. Results: The results revealed that BZBS treatment effectively reversed the age-related decline in energy expenditure and enhanced overall metabolism, as indicated by the aging index of energy expenditure derived from energy metabolism parameters across various ages. Subsequent investigations showed that BZBS reduced age-induced visceral fat accumulation and hepatic lipid droplet aggregation. Transcriptomic analysis of perirenal fat and liver indicated that BZBS effectively enhanced lipid metabolism pathways, such as the PPAR signaling pathway, fatty acid oxidation, and cholesterol metabolism, and improved glycolysis and mitochondrial respiration. Additionally, there was a significant improvement in inhibiting the inflammation-related arachidonic acid-linoleic acid metabolism pathway and restraining the IL-17 and TNF inflammatory pathways activated via senescence associated secretory phenotype (SASP). Conclusions: BZBS has the potential to alleviate inflammation in metabolic organs of naturally aged mice and maintain metabolic homeostasis. This study presents novel clinical therapeutic approaches for the prevention and treatment of age-related metabolic diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Stephania kwangsiensis Lo (Menispermaceae) is a well-known Chinese herbal medicine, and its bulbous stems are used medicinally. The storage stem of S. kwangsiensis originated from the hypocotyls. To date, there are no reports on the growth and development of S. kwangsiensis storage stems. Results: The bulbous stem of S. kwangsiensis, the starch diameter was larger at the stable expanding stage (S3T) than at the unexpanded stage (S1T) or the rapidly expanding stage (S2T) at the three different time points. We used ultra-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) and Illumina sequencing to identify key genes involved in bulbous stem development. A large number of differentially accumulated metabolites (DAMs) and differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified. Based on the differential expression profiles of the metabolites, alkaloids, lipids, and phenolic acids were the top three differentially expressed classes. Compared with S2T, significant changes in plant signal transduction and isoquinoline alkaloid biosynthesis pathways occurred at both the transcriptional and metabolic levels in S1T. In S2T compared with S3T, several metabolites involved in tyrosine metabolism were decreased. Temporal analysis of S1T to S3T indicated the downregulation of phenylpropanoid biosynthesis, including lignin biosynthesis. The annotation of key pathways showed an up-down trend for genes and metabolites involved in isoquinoline alkaloid biosynthesis, whereas phenylpropanoid biosynthesis was not completely consistent. Conclusions: Downregulation of the phenylpropanoid biosynthesis pathway may be the result of carbon flow into alkaloid synthesis and storage of lipids and starch during the development of S. kwangsiensis bulbous stems. A decrease in the number of metabolites involved in tyrosine metabolism may also lead to a decrease in the upstream substrates of phenylpropane biosynthesis. Downregulation of lignin synthesis during phenylpropanoid biosynthesis may loosen restrictions on bulbous stem expansion. This study provides the first comprehensive analysis of the metabolome and transcriptome profiles of S. kwangsiensis bulbous stems. These data provide guidance for the cultivation, breeding, and harvesting of S. kwangsiensis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Danggui Sini decoction (DSD), a traditional Chinese medicine formula, has the function of nourishing blood, warming meridians, and unblocking collaterals. Our clinical and animal studies had shown that DSD can effectively protect against oxaliplatin (OXA)-induced peripheral neuropathy (OIPN), but the detailed mechanisms remain uncertain. Multiple studies have confirmed that gut microbiota plays a crucial role in the development of OIPN. In this study, the potential mechanism of protective effect of DSD against OIPN by regulating gut microbiota was investigated. Methods: The neuroprotective effects of DSD against OIPN were examined on a rat model of OIPN by determining mechanical allodynia, biological features of dorsal root ganglia (DRG) as well as proinflammatory indicators. Gut microbiota dysbiosis was characterized using 16S rDNA gene sequencing and metabolism disorders were evaluated using untargeted and targeted metabolomics. Moreover the gut microbiota mediated mechanisms were validated by antibiotic intervention and fecal microbiota transplantation. Results: DSD treatment significantly alleviated OIPN symptoms by relieving mechanical allodynia, preserving DRG integrity and reducing proinflammatory indicators lipopolysaccharide (LPS), IL-6 and TNF-α. Besides, DSD restored OXA induced intestinal barrier disruption, gut microbiota dysbiosis as well as systemic metabolic disorders. Correlation analysis revealed that DSD increased bacterial genera such as Faecalibaculum, Allobaculum, Dubosiella and Rhodospirillales_unclassified were closely associated with neuroinflammation related metabolites, including positively with short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and sphingomyelin (d18:1/16:0), and negatively with pi-methylimidazoleacetic acid, l-glutamine and homovanillic acid. Meanwhile, antibiotic intervention apparently relieved OIPN symptoms. Furthermore, fecal microbiota transplantation further confirmed the mediated effects of gut microbiota. Conclusion: DSD alleviates OIPN by regulating gut microbiota and potentially relieving neuroinflammation related metabolic disorder. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Fumaria parviflora (FP) is a medicinal herb that is used in several traditional medicines to treat diseases like folliculitis, erysipelas. Fumaria parviflora Lam. belonging to the family Papaveraceae is used widely in traditional and folkloric medicine. It is known as 'Pittapapra' in Ayurveda, and 'Shahtaraa' in Unani is used to treat various ailments like indigestion, vomiting, fever, and fatigue. It is showing properties like anthelminthic, diuretic, diaphoretic, and blood-purifying properties. The present study is done to evaluate the antibacterial and antifungal properties of the extract. Materials and Methods: The plant extract was isolated by using a Soxhlet apparatus by using ethanol as the solvent. The extract was filtered using filter paper and heated in the oven to obtain the plant extract concentrate. The o/w emulsion-based cream was evaluated for pH, viscosity, thermal stability, spreadability, antibacterial (S. aureus and E. coli) and antifungal (C. albicans and A. niger) activity. Results: The o/w emulsion-based cream formulations were found to be stable, found to have pH compatible to human skin, no skin irritancy and also have good spreadability properties, and found to be effective against bacterial cells but no considerable effect on fungal cells. Conclusion: The o/w emulsion-based cream formulations were examined for both antibacterial and antifungal activities but from the results we concluded that Fumaria parviflora Lam. is found to be effective against bacterial cells and useful in treating bacterial skin infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Herbal nanoparticles are made from natural herbs/medicinal plants, their extracts, or a combination with other nanoparticle carriers. Compared to traditional herbs, herbal nanoparticles lead to improved bioavailability, enhanced stability, and reduced toxicity. Previous research indicates that herbal medicine nanomaterials are rapidly advancing and making significant progress; however, bibliometric analysis and knowledge mapping for herbal nanoparticles are currently lacking. We performed a bibliometric analysis by retrieving publications related to herbal nanoparticles from the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC) database spanning from 2004 to 2023. Data processing was performed using the R package Bibliometrix, VOSviewers, and CiteSpace. Results: In total, 1876 articles related to herbal nanoparticles were identified, originating from various countries, with China being the primary contributing country. The number of publications in this field increases annually. Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, and Saveetha University in India are prominent research institutions in this domain. The Journal "International Journal of Nanomedicine" has the highest number of publications. The number of authors of these publications reached 8234, with Yan Zhao, Yue Zhang, and Huihua Qu being the most prolific authors and Yan Zhao being the most frequently cited author. "Traditional Chinese medicine," "drug delivery," and "green synthesis" are the main research focal points. Themes such as "green synthesis," "curcumin," "wound healing," "drug delivery," and "carbon dots" may represent emerging research areas. Conclusions: Our study findings assist in identifying the latest research frontiers and hot topics, providing valuable references for scholars investigating the role of nanotechnology in herbal medicine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tumors have a huge impact on human life and are now the main cause of disease-related deaths. The main means of treatment are surgery and radiotherapy, but they are more damaging to the organism and have a poor postoperative prognosis. Therefore, we urgently need safe and effective drugs to treat tumors. In recent years, Chinese herbal medicines have been widely used in tumor therapy as complementary and alternative therapies. Medicinal and edible herbs are popular and have become a hot topic of research, which not only have excellent pharmacological effects and activities, but also have almost no side effects. Therefore, as a typical medicine and food homology, some components of Paeoniae Radix Alba (PRA, called Baishao in China) have been shown to have good efficacy and safety against cancer. Numerous studies have also shown that Paeoniae Radix Alba and its active ingredients treat cancer through various pathways and are also one of the important components of many antitumor herbal compound formulas. In this paper, we reviewed the literature on the intervention of Paeoniae Radix Alba in tumors and its mechanism of action in recent years and found that there is a large amount of literature on its effect on total glucosides of paeony (TGP) and paeoniflorin (PF), as well as an in-depth discussion of the mechanism of action of Paeoniae Radix Alba and its main constituents, with a view to promote the clinical development and application of Paeoniae Radix Alba in the field of antitumor management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The occurrence of root-knot nematode disease has seriously constrained the development of the Chinese herbal medicine industry. China is one of the largest producers of Polygonatum sibiricum and Peucedanum praeruptorum in the world, but the unidentified root-knot nematodes have become important pests of these two Chinese herbal medicines in China. Both morphological characteristics and molecular identification were used to identify the nematodes. The identification results showed that Meloidogyne incognita and M. arenaria were the causal species of root-knot nematode infection in P. sibiricum, and M. hapla was the causal species of the infection in P. praeruptorum. Through investigation, this is the first report of M. incognita and M. arenaria infecting P. sibiricum, and M. hapla infecting P. praeruptorum, in China. The two Chinese herbs are being severely damaged by various root-knot nematodes, and this damage should be taken seriously. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We aimed to examine the association of traditional Chinese herbal dietary formulas with ability of daily life and physical function in elderly patients with mild cognitive impairment. The current study included 60 cases of elderly patients with mild cognitive impairment from Yueyang Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Hongkou District, Shanghai. The participants were randomly divided into two groups: group A (herbal dietary formula group, consisting of Alpiniae Oxyphyllae Fructus, Nelumbinis plumula, Chinese Yam, Poria cocos, and Jineijin), 30 cases, and group B (vitamin E), 30 cases, treatment for 3 months. Cognitive function was measured using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MOCA) and Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE); body function was measured using the Chinese Simplified Physical Performance Test (CMPPT), including stand static balance, sitting-up timing, squat timing, and six-meter walk timing. Daily life based on ability was measured by grip strength and the Activity of Daily Living Scale (ADL). The lower the scores of the above items, the poorer the disease degree, except for ADL: the lower the score, the higher the self-care ability. After 3 months of treatment, the two-handed grip strength of both the herbal dietary formula group and vitamin E group increased; the ADL, sitting-up timing, squatting timing, and six-meter walking timing decreased after medication, being statistically significantly different (p < 0.05). The two-handed grip strength of group A increased significantly, and the ADL, sitting-up timing, squatting timing, and six-meter walking timing decreased distinctly compared with the vitamin E group. There was a statistically significant difference (p < 0.05). The scores of MMSE, MOCA, total CMPPT, and standing static balance of the herbal dietary formula group increased after medication. The difference was statistically significant (p < 0.05). The vitamin E group's MMSE and MOCA scores, CMPPT total scores, and standing resting balance scores did not change significantly after medication (p > 0.05). In summary, a traditional Chinese herbal dietary formula can improve body and cognitive function in patients with MCI, and the curative effect is better than that of vitamin E. Traditional Chinese herbal dietary formulas can improve the daily life quality of MCI patients, which has clinical application value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Herb shops are important for preparing medicinal plants. Improper packaging can lead to contamination of these plants by various types of microorganisms, fungi and yeasts. Objective This study aims to investigate the prevalence of microbial and fungal contamination in four plants from the Lamiaceae family in herb shops in Rasht, Iran. Methods In this study, 15 samples from mint, rosemary, and wild mint plants, and 16 samples from lemon balm were collected. The samples were diluted and incubated for one hour, then transferred onto Tryptic soy agar culture medium for bacterial enumeration. The sabouraud dextrose agar culture medium was used to count total mold and yeast, while McConkey Broth culture medium was used for specific identification of Escherichia coli. Data analysis was conducted in SPSS software, version 16. For comparing the bacterial and fungal contamination levels in the plant samples with the Pharmacopeial quality standard values, the non-parametric Wilcoxon signed rank test was used. Results Out of 61 plant samples, 59 (73.7%) were contaminated with bacteria, and 60 samples (86.6%) were contaminated with fungi. The number of samples contaminated with Escherichia coli was 27 (44.2%). The mean counts of bacteria and fungi in the plant samples were 3.39×105 and 6.3×105, respectively. Conclusion The microbial contamination in most of the plant samples examined in this study is significantly higher than the permissible limit. It is necessary for health authorities to implement stricter policies for monitoring the quality of natural products in herb shops of Rasht, Iran. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL), which was once considered one of the deadliest types of leukemia, has become a curable malignancy since the introduction of all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) and arsenic trioxide (ATO) as clinical treatments. ATO, which has become the first-line therapeutic agent for APL, is derived from the natural mineral product arsenic, exemplifying an important role of natural products in the treatment of APL. Many other natural products, ranging from small-molecule compounds to herbal extracts, have also demonstrated great potential for the treatment and adjuvant therapy of APL. In this review, we summarize the natural products and representative components that have demonstrated biological activity for the treatment of APL. We also discuss future directions in better exploring their medicinal value, which may provide a reference for subsequent new drug development and combination therapy programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Various diseases, including cancers, age-associated disorders, and acute liver failure, have been linked to the oncogene, MYC. Animal testing and clinical trials have shown that sustained tumor volume reduction can be achieved when MYC is inactivated, and different combinations of therapeutic agents including MYC inhibitors are currently being developed. In this review, we first provide a summary of the multiple biological functions of the MYC oncoprotein in cancer treatment, highlighting that the equilibrium points of the MYC/MAX, MIZ1/MYC/MAX, and MAD (MNT)/MAX complexes have further potential in cancer treatment that could be used to restrain MYC oncogene expression and its functions in tumorigenesis. We also discuss the multifunctional capacity of MYC in various cellular cancer processes, including its influences on immune response, metabolism, cell cycle, apoptosis, autophagy, pyroptosis, metastasis, angiogenesis, multidrug resistance, and intestinal flora. Moreover, we summarize the MYC therapy patent landscape and emphasize the potential of MYC as a druggable target, using herbal medicine modulators. Finally, we describe pending challenges and future perspectives in biomedical research, involving the development of therapeutic approaches to modulate MYC or its targeted genes. Patients with cancers driven by MYC signaling may benefit from therapies targeting these pathways, which could delay cancerous growth and recover antitumor immune responses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Allergic asthma is an important respiratory system problem characterized by airway inflammation, breathlessness, and bronchoconstriction. Allergic asthma and its outcomes are triggered by type 2 allergic immune responses. Tectorigenin is a methoxy‐isoflavone with anti‐inflammatory effects. In this study, we investigated the effects of tectorigenin on the pathophysiology of allergic asthma in an animal model. Methods: Asthmatic mice were treated with tectorigenin. Then airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR), eosinophil percentage, levels of interleukin (IL)‐33, IL‐25, IL‐13, IL‐5, IL‐4, total and ovalbumin (OVA)‐specific immunoglobulin (Ig)E, and lung histopathology were evaluated. Result: Tectorigenin significantly (P 〈 0.05) reduced eosinophil infiltration (41 ± 7%) in the broncho‐alveolar lavage fluid (BALF), serum IL‐5 level (41 ± 5, pg/mL), and bronchial and vascular inflammation (scores of 1.3 ± 0.2 and 1.1 ± 0.3, respectively) but had no significant effects on AHR, serum levels of IL‐33, −25, −13, and −4 (403 ± 24, 56 ± 7, 154 ± 11, and 89 ± 6 pg/mL, respectively), total and OVA‐specific IgE (2684 ± 265 and 264 ± 19 ng/mL, respectively), goblet cell hyperplasia, and mucus production. Conclusion: Tectorigenin could control inflammation and the secretion of inflammatory mediators of asthma, so it can be regarded as a potential antiasthma treatment with the ability to control eosinophilia‐related problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Curcuma xanthorrhiza Roxb, Phyllanthus niruri L., and Morinda citrifolia L. are Indonesian medicinal herbs used empirically as traditional therapeutics for maintaining health. The cocktail extract of these three plants (CECPM) had been developed and demonstrated immunostimulant activity in rats. This study aimed to evaluate the acute and subchronic toxicity of CECPM in vivo. The acute toxicity assay was conducted by orally administering a range dose of CECPM (313, 625, 1250, 2500, or 5000 mg/kg body weight (bw) on female mice once and then evaluating the toxic symptom every day for 14 days later. The chronic toxicity test was carried out by giving various doses of CECPM (600, 800, and 1000 mg/kg·bw) to female and male rats orally continuously for 90 consecutive days. The signs of toxicities were evaluated at the 90- and 28 days postadministration. The acute oral toxicity assays showed that there was no toxic syndrome and mortality found during the period of the experiment. The lethal dose level (LD50) of CECPM was more than 5000 g/kg, which was categorized as practically non-toxic. Meanwhile, in the sub-chronic toxicity study, some parameters tested at 90 days postadministration and after 28 days of withdrawal, such as the body weight, relative organ weight, food intake, hematological and biochemical blood parameters, and also histopathological examination of five primary tissues (heart, liver, kidney, spleen, and lung) revealed no abnormalities. There was no-observed adverse effect level (NOAEL) for the present study of CECPM 1000 mg/kg·bw of the rat. Therefore, it is concluded that the orally administered CECPM was relatively nontoxic during acute and subchronic toxicology studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]