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Essential oils, comprised of volatile compounds, have a wide range of biological effects, making them valuable in medicine, industry, and agriculture. They exhibit properties such as antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antioxidant, anti-obesity, antidiabetic, and smooth muscle relaxation. In this aspect, plants belonging to the genus Angelica show promise. One of these essential oil plants is Angelica archangelica. There is insufficient information in the literature on the essential oils of the leaves and rhizomes with roots of Angelica archangelica. The aim. The aim of our study was to identify and determine the quantitative content of essential oils by GC/MS method in Angelica archangelica leaves and rhizomes with roots grown in Ukraine. Materials and methods. The determination of the essential oils composition of Angelica archangelica was conducted using Agilent Technologies 6890 chromatograph with mass spectrometric detector 5973 (Agilent Technologies, USA). Results. The leaves of Angelica archangelica were found to contain twenty-three components in their essential oil, while the rhizomes and roots of this plant contained fifteen components. Eleven components were common to both parts of the plant, namely cis-Pinane, α-Farnesene, α-Curcumene, α-Caryophyllene, Copaen, β-Bisabolene, δ-Amorphene, α-Muurolene, trans-Chrysanthemal, β-Guaiene, α-Elemene. Twelve components such as α-Pinene, β-Myrcene, 3-p-Menthene, Isoborneol, Anisole, Bornyl acetate, (Z)- β-Elemene, Caryophyllene, (-)-Spathulenol, α-Bergamotene, γ-Muurolene, α-Bisabolol were present only in leaves, and four components namely p-Isopropenylacetophenone, β-Cubebene, α-Zingiberene, Hexahydrofarnesyl acetone were present only in rhizomes with roots. Conclusions. The component composition of the essential oil in the leaves and the rhizomes with roots of Angelica archangelica growing in Ukraine was investigated using the GS/MC method. We have defined for the first time the chemical composition of the essential oils of the leaves of Angelica archangelica, 23 components of essential oil were identified. In the rhizomes with roots, 15 components of essential oils were identified. The following pharmacologically important components, cis-Pinane and α-Farnesene, were found in both samples of the essential oil of Angelica archangelica in significant quantities. These results have been cross-analyzed and are particularly important for planning and defining the process of cultivation and use of this species plant in traditional and official medicine [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cancer is a globally complex disease with a plethora of genetic, physiological, metabolic, and environmental variations. With the increasing resistance to current anticancer drugs, efforts have been made to develop effective cancer treatments. Currently, natural products are considered promising cancer therapeutic agents due to their potent anticancer activity and low intrinsic toxicity. Decursin, a coumarin analog mainly derived from the roots of the medicinal plant Angelica sinensis, has a wide range of biological activities, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, neuroprotective, and especially anticancer activities. Existing studies indicate that decursin affects cell proliferation, apoptosis, autophagy, angiogenesis, and metastasis. It also indirectly affects the immune microenvironment and can act as a potential anticancer agent. Decursin can exert synergistic antitumor effects when used in combination with a number of common clinical anticancer drugs, enhancing chemotherapy sensitivity and reversing drug resistance in cancer cells, suggesting that decursin is a good drug combination. Second, decursin is also a promising lead compound, and compounds modifying its structure and formulation form also have good anticancer effects. In addition, decursin is not only a key ingredient in several natural herbs and dietary supplements but is also available through a biosynthetic pathway, with anticancer properties and a high degree of safety in cells, animals, and humans. Thus, it is evident that decursin is a promising natural compound, and its great potential for cancer prevention and treatment needs to be studied and explored in greater depth to support its move from the laboratory to the clinic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Following a request from the European Commission, the EFSA Panel on Nutrition, Novel Foods and Food Allergens (NDA) was asked to deliver an opinion on ashitaba sap as a novel food (NF) pursuant to Regulation (EU) 2015/2283. Ashitaba sap is collected from harvested stems of Angelica keiskei plants. The principal constituents of the sap with regard to the safety assessment are chalcones (1%–2.25%) and furanocoumarins (< 0.01%). The applicant proposed to use the NF in food supplements at a maximum dose of 780 mg per day. The target population is adults excluding pregnant and lactating women. Taking into consideration the composition of the NF and the proposed uses, the composition of the NF is not nutritionally disadvantageous. There are no concerns regarding genotoxicity of the NF. Based on a 90‐day oral toxicity study performed with the product as intended to be placed on the market (30% ashitaba sap powder and 70% cyclodextrins), the Panel establishes a safe dose of 0.5 mg/kg body weight (bw) per day for the product as it is intended to be placed on the market. For the target population, i.e. adults, this safe dose corresponds to 35 mg per day of the product as it is intended to be placed on the market and 137 mg per day of the NF, which is lower than the use level proposed by the applicant. The Panel concludes that the NF is safe for the target population at intake levels up to 137 mg per day. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cancer pain, especially the moderate-to-severe pain experienced by patients with advanced cancer, is still one of the most challenging clinical problems. The current mainstream pharmacological treatment for cancer pain involves applying opioid medications and other pain-killing drugs. However, analgesic drugs have many adverse effects such as addiction, tolerance, and other formidable clinical and social issues. Thus, finding a new therapeutic approach to treat cancer pain is essential. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has been increasingly applied in clinical practice because of its good efficacy and few side effects. However, its mechanisms of action in treating pain are still under investigation. The most important mechanism of cancer pain is that a large amount of pain-causing substances are secreted from cancer cells and promote their growth and invasion. The physical and chemical stimulations of these substances exist along with the cancer growth, leading to constantly increased pain sensation. Whether cancer pain can be alleviated by inhibiting cancer cells from releasing the substances and changing the microenvironment around the cancer mass, or even by eliminating pain-causing substances, is largely unknown. Based on TCM theory, this study reported that the aforementioned approach could effectively manage different cancer pains by tonifying qi, clearing and activating channels and meridians, and strengthening body resistance. The TCM therapies activate blood circulation, remove blood stasis, and nourish the heart. Commonly used Chinese herbal drugs include Corydalis yanhusuo, Angelica dahurica, and Ligusticum chuanxiong. Instead of using conventional analgesics to reduce pain, we should focus on using TCM modalities to alleviate cancer pain and increase the quality of life in patients suffering from cancer pain. TCM should provide us with a new strategy for managing cancer pain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During a disease survey in October 2019, leaf spot symptoms with a yellow halo were observed on Korean angelica (Anglica gigas) plants grown in fields in Pyeongchang, Gangwon Province, Korea. Incidence of diseased leaves of the plants in the investigated fields ranged from 10% to 60%. Morphological and cultural characteristics of two single-spore isolates from the leaf lesions indicated that they belonged to the genus Didymella. Molecular phylogenetic analyses using combined sequences of LSU, ITS, TUB2, and RPB2 regions showed distinct clustering of the isolates from other Didymella species. In addition, the morphological and cultural characteristics of the isolates were somewhat different from those of closely related Didymella spp. Therefore, the novelty of the isolates was proved based on the investigations. Pathogenicity of the novel Didymella species isolates was confirmed on leaves of Korean angelica plants via artificial inoculation. This study reveals that Didymella gigantis sp. nov. causes leaf spot in Korean angelica. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Paddy (Oryza sativa) yield is greatly influenced by the insidious presence of rice-mimicking weed, widely known as barnyard grass. This study explores the promising natural ACCase inhibitors that could enhance paddy yield by controlling weeds. A total of 2828 natural compounds were examined using diverse computational techniques. The results of this study depict that CNP0390839 (xanthoangelol) exhibited a better XP Gscore (−7.328 kcal/mol) and MM/GBSA score (−84.24 kcal/mol) than other investigated compounds. Importantly, ACCase-xanthoangelol complexes was thermodynamically stable with an RMSD value of ∼1.2 nm. Of note, 72% xanthoangelol resides in the Angelica keiskei plant root which exhibits 55% weed-inhibitory action. The A. keiskei plant mainly inhibits the hypocotyl (71.8 ± 5.4%) and root region (55.3 ± 4.7%) of weeds. Moreover, the existence of dihydroxyphenyl scaffold in xanthoangelol was also witnessed in literatures for weed inhibitory action. Overall, xanthoangelol might prove to be an effective ACCase herbicide in paddy weed management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Angelica keiskei Koidzumi (Ashitaba) is a traditional folk medicine and health supplement in Japan. Ashitaba yellow stem exudate (AYE) contains abundant chalcones and thus has the potential to treat and prevent many pathological states such as cancer, inflammation, obesity, diabetics, thrombosis, and hypertension. Levels of plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 (PAI-1), a key regulator of the fibrinolytic system, increase with age in mouse plasma. Therefore, we aimed to determine the effects of AYE on plasma thrombotic parameters in aging mice. Long-term (52 weeks) AYE supplementation significantly decreased age-induced increases of PAI-1 in mouse plasma. Supplementation with AYE decreased levels of the acute-phase and fibrinolytic protein plasma plasminogen, and significantly decreased those of tumor necrosis factor α. These results suggested that continuous intake of AYE throughout life decreases age-induced systemic inflammation and prevents thrombotic tendencies without affecting body weight gain in aged mice. Our findings showed that supplementing diets with AYE might help to prevent thrombotic diseases in elderly individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During disease surveys of Angelica acutiloba plants in Korea, leaf spot symptoms were observed in a field in Andong in July 2019, and stem rot symptoms in vinyl greenhouses in Yangpyeong in April 2020. Incidence of leaf spot and stem rot of the plants ranged from 10 to 20% and 5 to 30%, respectively. Morphological and cultural characteristics of fungal isolates from the leaf spot and stem rot symptoms fitted into those of the genus Phoma. Molecular phylogenetic analyses of two single-spore isolates from the symptoms using concatenated sequences of LSU, ITS, TUB2, and RPB2 genes authenticated an independent cluster from other Didymella (anamorph: Phoma) species. Moreover, the isolates showed different morphological and cultural characteristics in comparison to closely related Didymella species. These discoveries confirmed the novelty of the isolates. Pathogenicity of the novel Didymella species isolates was substantiated on leaves and stems of A. acutiloba through artificial inoculation. Thus, this study reveals that Didymella acutilobae sp. nov. causes leaf spot and stem rot in Angelica acutiloba. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate change is very important for the distribution of plant resources, especially for crops. Angelica plants have a long history of use and significant crop resources in China, whose rhizomes are extensively used in medicine and food. In this paper, 1599 georeferenced herbarium records were analyzed using DIVA-GIS, and the ecological distribution and richness of the current and future distribution simulation were analyzed using the MaxEnt model. The results show that they are from 32 provinces in China. Among these provinces, Sichuan, Gansu, and Yunnan have the largest number of herbariums. According to the MaxEnt model simulation, it is found that the precipitation in the warmest season, annual precipitation, and the driest monthly precipitation are the foremost bioclimatic variables that control the distribution of eight selected Angelica plants (A. biserrata, A. gigas, A. laxifoliata, A. likiangensis, A. longicaudata, A. omeiensis, A. polymorpha, and A. valida). It can be seen from the potential distribution map that the suitable growth areas of A. polymorpha and A. valida have increased, while the suitable growth areas of the six species of Angelica have decreased in varying degrees, 18.24%, 20.01%, 9.91%, 53.16%, 10.06%, and 12.64% respectively. Therefore, it is necessary to protect the Angelica plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. This work studied the molecular mechanism of the Saposhnikovia divaricata–Angelica dahurica herb pair (SAHP) in migraine treatment. Methods. The active ingredients of drugs were screened, and potential targets were predicted by the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology (TCMSP), TCMID, ETCM, and other databases. Migraine-related targets were obtained by harnessing the GeneCards, DrugBank, OMIM, TTD, and other databases. The protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed with STRING software by performing a Venn analysis with bioinformatics. Gene Ontology (GO) functional enrichment and the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis were performed with the Metascape platform. The component-target-pathway (C-T-P) network was constructed with Cytoscape 3.7.2 software, and molecular docking was assessed with AutoDockVina software. Results. A total of 183 relevant targets and 39 active ingredients in migraine therapy were obtained from SAHP. The active ingredients and targets were screened according to topological parameters: wogonin, anomalin, imperatorin, prangenin, 2-linoleoylglycerol, and methylenetanshinquinone were identified as key active ingredients. PTGS2, PIK3CA, PIK3CB, PIK3CD, F2, and AR were identified as key targets. The molecular docking results demonstrated high binding activity between the key active ingredients and key targets. A total of 20 important signaling pathways, including neural signaling pathways, calcium signaling pathways, pathways in cancer, cAMP signaling pathways, and PI3K-Akt signaling pathways, were obtained through enrichment analysis. Conclusion. Migraine with SAHP is mainly treated through anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects. The herb pair can be used for migraine using "multicomponent, multitarget, and multipathway" approaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was examined the effects of essential oils inhalation on smoking cessation. This study is an experimental study conducted with the intervention and control groups (pretest/posttest). Fifty-eight students were randomly grouped into 1 of 3 groups: black pepper group (n:21), inhaled black pepper oil, angelica group (n:18) inhaled angelica oil, and control group (n:19), inhaled sunflower (placebo) oil for 2 min. when they felt the urge to smoke. The study showed that the mean score of students applying black pepper oil and angelica oil in intra-group comparison decreased after aromatherapy. Aromatherapy is an effective and safe method on smoking cessation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An ultraperformance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) method was established to simultaneously determine 14 compounds of Angelicae pubescentis Radix (APR) in normal and arthritis rat plasma in which chloramphenicol and daidzein were used as the internal standards. After protein precipitation with acetonitrile, separation was carried out on a Thermo Hypersil GOLD C18 column using gradient elution with 0.1% formic acid aqueous and acetonitrile consisting as the mobile phase at a flowing rate of 0.3 mL/min. A Thermo TSQ QUANTIS triple quadrupole mass spectrometer was used to detect 14 compounds in positive/negative ion exchange mode and this study was the first to investigate the pharmacokinetic changes of the active compounds in rats under the pathological state of arthritis. The method was verified and the results showed that the intra- and interday precision, accuracy, matrix effect, and extraction recovery were all acceptable, and the analytes were stable under different storage conditions. In addition, the pharmacokinetic behaviors of the 14 compounds were significantly different in model rats compared with normal rats. This indicated that the pharmacokinetic behavior of drugs will vary with the pathological state of the body, which suggested that individualized and reasonable drug administration plans should be formulated for different pathological states in clinical practice. This study provided a scientific basis and data support for better understanding the pharmacodynamic substance basis and clinical application of APR against arthritis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Angelica gigas Nakai (AGN) root is a medicinal herbal widely used in traditional medicine in Korea. AGN root ethanolic extract dietary supplements are marketed in the United States for memory health and pain management. We comprehensively reviewed the anticancer, analgesic, pro-memory and other bio-activities of AGN extract and its signature phytochemicals decursin, decursinol angelate, and decursinol a decade ago in 2012 and updated their anticancer activities in 2015. In the last decade, significant progress has been made for understanding the pharmacokinetics (PK) and metabolism of these compounds in animal models and single dose human PK studies have been published by us and others. In addition to increased knowledge of the known bioactivities, new bioactivities with potential novel health benefits have been reported in animal models of cerebral ischemia/stroke, anxiety, sleep disorder, epilepsy, inflammatory bowel disease, sepsis, metabolic disorders, osteoporosis, osteoarthritis, and even male infertility. Herein, we will update PK and metabolism of pyranocoumarins, review in vivo bioactivities from animal models and human studies, and critically appraise the relevant active compounds, the cellular and molecular pharmacodynamic targets, and pertinent mechanisms of action. Knowledge gaps include whether human pyranocoumarin PK metrics are AGN dose dependent and subjected to metabolic ceiling, or metabolic adaptation after repeated use. Critical clinical translation challenges include sourcing of AGN extracts, product consistency and quality control, and AGN dose optimization for different health conditions and disease indications. Future research directions are articulated to fill knowledge gaps and address these challenges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Angelica roots are a significant source of traditional medicines for various cultures around the northern hemisphere, from indigenous communities in North America to Japan. Among its many applications, the roots are used to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus; however, this application is not mentioned often. Ethnopharmacological studies have reported the use of A. japonica var. hirsutiflora , A. furcijuga, A. shikokiana, and A. keiskei to treat diabetes symptoms, and further reports have demonstrated the three angelica roots, i.e., A. japonica var. hirsutiflora , A. reflexa , and A. dahurica , exhibit insulin secretagogue activity. This study aimed to phytochemically characterize and compare angelica roots monographed in the European Pharmacopeia 11th, isolate major plant metabolites, and assess extracts and isolates' capability to modulate pancreatic β-cell function. Root extracts of Angelica archangelica , Angelica dahurica , Angelica biserrata, and Angelica sinensis were phytochemically profiled using liquid chromatography method coupled with mass spectrometry. Based on this analysis, simple and furanocoumarins were isolated using chromatography techniques. Extracts (1.6–50 μg/mL) and isolated compounds (5–40 μmol/L) were studied for their ability to modulate insulin secretion in the rat insulinoma INS-1 pancreatic β-cell model. Insulin was quantified by the homogeneous time-resolved fluorescence method. Forty-one secondary metabolites, mostly coumarins, were identified in angelica root extracts. A. archangelica , A. dahurica, and A. biserrata root extracts at concentration of 12.5–50 μg/mL potentiated glucose-induced insulin secretion, which correlated with their high coumarin content. Subsequently, 23 coumarins were isolated from these roots and screened using the same protocol. Coumarins substituted with the isoprenyl group were found to be responsible for the extracts' insulinotropic effect. Insulinotropic effects of three pharmacopeial angelica roots were found, the metabolite profiles and pharmacological activities of the roots were correlated, and key structures responsible for the modulation of pancreatic β-cell function were identified. These findings may have implications for the traditional use of angelica roots in treating diabetes. Active plant metabolites may also become lead structures in the search for new antidiabetic treatments. [Display omitted] • Monographed (Ph. Eur. 11th) Angelica L. roots were phytochemically profiled on LC-MS, showing distinct metabolite profiles. • Angelica roots rich in coumarins modulate glucose-induced insulin secretion. • Prenylated coumarins were found to be responsible for the insulinotropic effect of angelica root extracts. • Imperatorin potentiated insulin secretion in a dose- and glucose-dependent manner. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Angelica dahurica, belonging to the family Apiaceae, is a well-known herbal medicine. The roots of Angelica dahurica are commonly used for the treatment of headache, toothache, abscess, furunculosis, and acne. However, little is known about their analgesic molecular mechanism underlying pain relief. In this study, we used behavioral tests to assess the analgesic effect of the ADE (Angelica dahurica extracts) on CFA (complete Freund's adjuvant)-induced inflammatory pain mice models. TRPV1 (Transient Receptor Potential Cation Channel Subfamily V Member 1) protein activity in dorsal root ganglion (DRG) was assessed with a calcium imaging assay. TRPV1 expression was detected with western blot and immunohistochemistry. Then, we examined the constituents of ADE using combined ultra-performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-light mass spectrometry (UPLC/Q−TOF−MS). Our results showed that ADE effectively attenuated mechanical and thermal hypersensitivities in CFA-induced inflammatory pain model in mice. ADE also significantly reduced the activity and the protein expression of TRPV1 in DRG from CFA mice. Therefore, ADE might be an attractive and suitable analgesic agent for the management of chronic inflammatory pain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although multiple studies have shown that Angelica keiskei of the Umbelliferae family has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidative activities and that it reduces the serum bile acids in humans, whether A. keiskei has protective effects against cholestasis-induced liver injury remains unexplored until now. This study tests the hypothesis that Angelica keiskei root extract (AKE) alleviates liver injury, inflammation, and fibrosis in mouse models of acute cholestasis induced by bile duct ligation (BDL). Oral administration of AKE (200 or 500 mg/kg) attenuated hepatocellular necrosis and significantly reduced serum levels of bile acids and bilirubin in BDL mice. The critical enzyme of bile acid synthesis, CYP7A1, was repressed by AKE, suggesting that reduced bile acid production may contribute to liver protection. Moreover, we determined through gene expression and cytokine analysis and histological examination that AKE treatment decreased liver inflammation, oxidative stress, and fibrosis. AKE also suppressed the NF-κB pathway, suggesting this as a possible mediator of its anti-inflammatory effect. Our findings substantiate that AKE may be promising for treating cholestatic liver diseases in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the tasks of pharmaceutical science is to find new sources of effective drugs. Such sources include plants such as Angelica archangelica L. and Angelica sylvestris L., which have been used for many years to treat various diseases in folk medicine. Because the chemical composition of these plants is poorly understood, the aim of our study was to investigate the amino acid composition of the leaves of A. archangelica L. and A. sylvestris L. The amino acids of the leaves of the study species of the genus Angelica L. were determined by the HPLC method. Eighteen free and nineteen bound amino acids were identified in the leaves of A. archangelica L. The A. sylvestris L. leaves contained nineteen free and the same amount of bound amino acids. High concentrations of free and bound amino acids such as L-glutamic acid and L-aspartic acid predominate in A. archangelica L. and A. sylvestris L. This allowed these amino acids to be considered distinguishing markers of the study plants. Character metabolic processes in which these amino acids take part may be associated with the medicinal properties of these plants pursuant to their use in medicine and, therefore, may contribute to the insight of their therapeutic properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the current study, extraction from the stem and leaf of the well‐known Indian medicinal plant Angelica archangelica (A. Angelica) with the solvents of variable polarity such as water, methanol, ethyl acetate, and chloroform is reported. The presence of different secondary metabolites like terpenoid, flavonoid, glycosides, carbohydrates, resin, steroid, proteins, and tannin are confirmed by different phytochemical qualitative test for ethyl acetate, water, chloroform, and methanol extract. The difference in the composition of all the extracts is motivated to conduct the comparison of the biological potential of all extracts in the form of DNA cleavage, DNA binding, and antioxidant activity. It is observed that the methanolic extract is most potent among all which has high concentration of terpenoids. It has shown 95% DPPH scavenging activity and 62% DNA cleavage activity. Separation of terpenoids from methanolic extracts to hexane layer is conducted which proved the same as hexane layer has shown maximum DNA binding potential. Hexane layer has shown 52% DNA binding activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. The traditional Chinese medicines Astragalus and Angelica are often combined to treat male infertility, but the specific therapeutic mechanism is not clear. Therefore, this study applies a network pharmacology approach to investigate the possible mechanism of action of the drug pair Astragalus-Angelica (PAA) in the treatment of male infertility. Methods. Relevant targets for PAA treatment of male infertility are obtained through databases. Protein-protein interactions (PPIs) are constructed through STRING database and screen core targets, and an enrichment analysis is conducted through the Metascape platform. Finally, molecular docking experiments were carried out to evaluate the affinity between the target protein and the ligand of PAA. Results. The active ingredients of 112 PAA, 980 corresponding targets, and 374 effective targets of PAA for the treatment of male infertility were obtained, which are related to PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, HIF-1 signaling pathway, AGE-RAGE signaling pathway, IL-17 signaling pathway, and thyroid hormone signaling pathway. Conclusion. In this study, using a network pharmacology method, we preliminarily analyzed the effective components and action targets of the PAA. We also explored the possible mechanism of action of PAA in treating male infertility. They also lay a foundation for expanding the clinical application of PAA and provide new ideas and directions for further research on the mechanisms of action of the PAA and its components for male infertility treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to determine the mineral contents by ICP‐MS and the antioxidant capacity of Angelica archangelica plant, which is not well known in the literature. For this purpose, ethyl alcohol extracts of the branches and leaves of the plant; different bioanalytical methods such as reducing capacity by Fe3+−Fe2+ transformation method, Fe3+‐TPTZ reducing capacity by FRAP method, Cu2+‐Cu+ reducing capacity by CUPRAC method, the ferric ions (Fe2+) chelating activity by using bipyridyl reagent, DPPH (1,1‐diphenyl‐2‐picryl‐hydrazyl) free radical, DMPD (N,N‐dimethyl‐p‐phenylenediamine), ABTS (2,2'‐azino‐bis(3‐ethylbenzthiazoline‐6‐sulfonic acid) radical scavenging activities, total antioxidant activity determination according to thiocyanate method, total phenolic and total flavonoid activity were used. As standard, BHT, BHA, α‐Tocopherol, Trolox were used. A. archangelica branches and leaves demonstrated 88.13 % and 93.90 % inhibition of linoleic acid emulsion peroxidation at 20 mg mL−1 concentration. Also, it was determined that both leaves and branches of A. archangelica plant were dense with P, Mg, Ca and K minerals with ICP‐MS device. It is considered that the results of the manuscript will guide the antioxidant studies, medicine, cosmetics, pharmacology and food sector. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this work was to provide an economic and practical method for the purification of columbianetin-β-D-glucopyranoside from Angelicae Pubescentis Radix extract. In the static adsorption and desorption, the effects of resin type (D101, HP-20, AB-8, GDX-201, and DA201), contact time (10–360 min), and temperature (298–318 K) were assessed on columbianetin-β-D-glucopyranoside adsorption efficiency in laboratory. GDX-201 resin showed the best adsorption and desorption properties for columbianetin-β-D-glucopyranoside. The kinetic data revealed that the equilibrium time for columbianetin-β-D-glucopyranoside adsorption was achieved within 150 min. Moreover, the adsorption kinetic curve was well in accordance with the pseudo-second-order equation (R2 > 0.99). The rate controlling step of the adsorption process was the intraparticle diffusion. The Langmuir isotherm models (R2 > 0.99) could describe the whole adsorption process, which was exothermic and spontaneous according to the result of thermodynamics tests. In the dynamic adsorption and desorption process, the optimum loading flow (4, 5, and 6 BV/h), ethanol concentration (0–60%), and elution volume (10–230 mL) were optimized. Under optimal conditions of 4 BV/h loading flow, 6.7 BV loading volume, 25% ethanol, and 14 BV elution volume, the content of columbianetin-β-D-glucopyranoside in the product was increased 29.61-fold from 0.45% to 13.32 ± 0.64% with yield of 88.03 ± 2.76% by an experiment of lab-scale enlargement. Then, columbianetin-β-D-glucopyranoside was further purified by PHPLC and its purity was more than 98%. Additionally, the analgesic activity of the columbianetin-β-D-glucopyranoside was assessed by hot plate test. The experimental results showed that columbianetin-β-D-glucopyranoside significantly increased the latency of pain response in mice. This study demonstrated columbianetin-β-D-glucopyranoside could be as a potentially natural analgesic component. It could be summed up that the established method was successfully applied to purifying columbianetin-β-D-glucopyranoside from Angelicae Pubescentis Radix extract. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thrombosis causes poor blood circulation, which may lead to several cardiovascular disorders. Antiplatelet aggregation and antihyperlipidemia are the key processes that improve blood circulation. The antiplatelet aggregation and antihyperlipidemic effects of ACG-1, a mixture of Angelica gigas, Cynanchum wilfordii, and Ginkgo biloba extracts, were investigated in this study. The antiplatelet aggregation activity of ACG-1 was determined by studying its effects on collagen-induced platelet aggregation in human platelet-rich plasma (PRP). In addition, the effects of ACG-1 were investigated in a thromboembolism mouse model. The high-fat diet (HFD)-fed mouse model was used to investigate the antihyperlipidemic effects of ACG-1 and western blotting assay was performed to elucidate its mechanism of action. It was observed that ACG-1 significantly inhibited platelet aggregation in human PRP. Furthermore, ACG-1 showed protective effects in a thromboembolism mouse model induced by administering a mixed collagen and epinephrine intravenous injection. Oral administration of ACG-1 also significantly ameliorated blood lipid profiles in the HFD-fed mouse model. In conclusion, ACG-1 should be considered a powerful functional food to improve blood circulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Angelica biserrata is an important medicinal plant in Chinese traditional medicine. Its roots, which are known as Duhuo in Chinese, are broadly applied to treat inflammation, arthritis, and headache. With increasing market demand, the wild resources of A. biserrata have been overexploited, and conservation, assessment of genetic resources and breeding for this species is needed. Here, we sequenced the transcriptome of A. biserrata and developed simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers from it to construct a core collection based on 208 samples collected from Changyang-related regions. A total of 132 alleles were obtained for 17 SSR loci used with the polymorphic information content (PIC) ranging from 0.44 to 0.83. Abundant genetic diversity was inferred by Shannon's information index (1.51), observed (0.57) and expected heterozygosity (0.72). The clustering analysis resulted into two sample groups and analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA) showed only 6% genetic variation existed among populations. A further metabolic analysis of these samples revealed the main coumarin contents, such as osthole and columbianadin. According to the genetic and metabolic data, we adopted the least distance stepwise sampling strategy to construct seven preliminary core collections, of which the 20CC collection, which possessed 42 A. biserrata individuals accounting for 90.20% of the genetic diversity of the original germplasm, represented the best core collection. This study will contribute to the conservation and management of A. biserrata wild germplasm resources and provide a material basis for future selection and breeding of this medicinal plant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction:Angelica archangelica L. (Apiaceae) has a long history of use as a vegetable and medicinal plant. According to the European Pharmacopoeia, the angelica root (Angelica radix) of only one of the sub-species – Angelica archangelica subsp. archangelica (formerly known as Archangelica officinalis) – is used as a source of plant material with documented medicinal properties. Within this species, there are two subspecies that are difficult to classify unambiguously: subsp. archangelica and subsp. litoralis. Objective: The aim of this study was to provide a micromorphological and anatomical description of fruits of A archangelica and identify new diagnostic characters useful in subspecies identification. Methods: A comparative analysis of the sculpture and internal structure of fruits of the distinguished A archangelica taxa was conducted, using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Results: Based on the taxonomic characters in the Apiaceae family, micromorphological and anatomical characteristics of A archangelica fruits were prepared. Some of the investigated characters, e.g. verrucose sculpture of the oil duct surface and the presence of hooked hairs, exhibited intraspecific differences. Among the anatomical characters, the variation was related to the number and size of the paraendocarpic oil ducts as well as to the thickness of dorsal and commissural mesocarp. Conclusion: SEM examination of fruits of A archangelica provided a detailed description of their sculptures and several micromorphological and anatomical characters of potential diagnostic value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The plant Angelica archangelica, owing to its magnificent therapeutic effectiveness in folklore medicine system, has been regarded as an "angel plant." The current investigation was aimed to optimize extraction conditions of A. archangelica roots and to investigate in vivo role of optimized extract in fibromyalgia. Plant material (dried roots) was subjected to methanol extraction at variable temperature (40 to 60 °C) and time (12 to 36 hr) conditions as per two‐factorial design strategy, and responses in terms of antioxidant activity were determined. The optimized extraction conditions were found to be temperature of 60 °C and time of 36 hr. HPLC fingerprinting indicated the presence of coumarins in extract. To induce fibromyalgia, the mice were administered reserpine at a dose of 0.5 mg/kg. Mice were orally treated with 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg extract, and magnitude of fibromyalgia was quantified. In comparison to reserpine group, the extract treatment attenuated pain as shown by significant increase in paw withdrawal threshold against mechanical stimuli (P < 0.05), improved motor ability indicated by increase in fall‐off time in inclined plane test (P < 0.05), improved locomotion indicated by increased square crossings in open field test (P < 0.05), and improved cognition as shown by significant reduction in time to reach platform in Morris water maze test and passive avoidance task test (P < 0.05). Extract treatment significantly halted reserpine‐induced rise in serum cytokine level (P < 0.05) and brain oxidative stress (P < 0.05). Angelica archangelica extract exerted its beneficial effects in fibromyalgia possibly through the attenuation of oxidative stress‐mediated inflammatory cascade. Practical Application: Leads from natural products have become an integral part of drug designing processes and have high acceptability due to their better tolerance. The optimization of extraction conditions of plant yields better results and could reduce the processing time, thus increasing its industrial value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Geospatial extent, availability and threats on Angelica glauca in the alpine region of Western Himalaya were assessed. Landsat-8 data was used to delineate the extent of species using ground control points (GCPs) collected based on the rapid mapping exercise (RME) (4 plots at every 50 m distance, total 40 plots in one transect) as well as herbarium and published literature. To assess the threats on the species, information on livestock population, grazing period, and exploitation by humans were collected. The suitable habitat for A. glauca was recorded ~332 km2 in the alpine region of Uttarakhand where the species ranged between 0.5 to 1.5 individual m−2. However, field-based investigations assessed ~ 322 km2 area as available for the persistence of species in the region. Livestock grazing, collection by human beings for personal and commercial use across the landscape were the major threats for this species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Many researchers argue that Alzheimer's disease is at least partly caused by deposition of amyloid beta (Aβ) in the brain. Ferulic acid (FA) and Angelica archangelica (AA) are candidate agents for reducing Aβ and improving cognitive function. Feru‐guard 100M is a supplement containing FA and AA extract. Using this supplement, we planned to assess the effect of FA and AA on Aβ deposition in the human brain. Methods: This was an open‐label, interventional multi‐institutional joint study of Kobe University and the Institute of Biomedical Research and Innovation (Kobe, Japan). Seventeen subjects diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment were divided into two groups: the intervention group (n = 10) and the control group (n = 7). The subjects in the intervention group used Feru‐guard 100M every day for 48 weeks, whereas the subjects in the control group did not use the supplement. We assessed the differences between the two groups by examining Aβ deposition and brain atrophy at 48 weeks and cognitive function every 24 weeks. We used carbon‐11‐labelled Pittsburgh compound B (PiB) positron emission tomography to evaluate Aβ deposition. Results: There were no significant differences in Aβ deposition, brain atrophy, and cognitive function between the two groups. Specifically, differences in Aβ deposition change in seven regions of interest examined with PiB positron emission tomography, brain atrophy change in four indicators of voxel‐based morphometry, and cognitive impairment measured by five psychological tests were not significantly between the two groups. Conclusion: Treatment with Feru‐guard 100M, a supplement containing FA and AA extract, for 48 weeks did not reduce cortical PiB retention, which reflects Aβ deposition. It also did not suppress the aggravation of brain atrophy or decline in cognitive function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Angelicae Pubescentis Radix (AP), as a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), has been used for thousands of years in China. In this paper, the botany, traditional use, phytochemistry, analytical methods, quality control, pharmacological effects, and toxicity of AP were reviewed. It can provide a reference for the further research and lay a foundation for the rational clinical application of AP. The relevant information on AP was collected from scientific databases (such as Baidu Scholar, CNKI, Google Scholar, PubMed, Science Direct, Web of Science, and SciFinder Scholar), Chinese herbal classics, Chinese Pharmacopoeia, PhD and MSc dissertations, and so on. The components which have been isolated and identified in AP include coumarins, volatile oils, organic acids, terpenes, polysaccharides, flavonoids, sterols, and trace elements. Most of them were analyzed by HPLC and GC. A pharmacological study shows that the AP has extensive pharmacological effects, including anti-inflammatory, antirheumatism, sedative and hypnotic, neuroprotection, antioxidation, antitumor, and allergy, and it is widely used in the treatment of the rheumatoid arthritis, knee osteoarthritis, lumbar disc, ankylosing spondylitis, headaches, stroke hemiplegia, Alzheimer's, and arrhythmia. AP is a valuable natural medicinal plant. So far, significant advances have been made in phytochemistry and pharmacology. Some traditional uses have been demonstrated by modern pharmacology. However, the chemical components and pharmacological effects of AP are complex and varied, and there are different standards for the evaluation of its quality and efficacy. The mechanism of action, the structure-activity relationship among the components, and the potential synergistic and antagonistic effects remain to be studied. At the same time, there are few studies on the specific compounds related to its pharmacodynamics. In order to better develop and utilize AP, we should establish a more reasonable, reliable, and accurate quality control standard and focus on the study of bioactive constituents and the demonstration of their mechanism of action. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Proximate and mineral composition, phytochemical content, antinutrient content, and antioxidant activities of Himalayan spices have been analyzed for estimating their nutraceutical potential and compared with other commonly used spices. For understanding the closeness among the spices, factor analysis, and cluster analysis was carried out. The Himalayan spices were found rich in important nutraceutical components and equivalent to other commercially available spices. Allium stracheyi has shown far proximity, and Angelica glauca has shown proximity with the rest of the spices except Syzygium aromaticum and Curcuma longa. As the Himalayan spices have high nutraceutical potential, so can be used as nutraceutical as well as for fortification of food. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Angelica root is the dry root of the Umbelliferae plant Angelica sinensis (oliv) Diels. Angelica organic acid (OA) is the main active ingredient in Angelica sinensis, and it exerts potential anti-atherosclerotic effects by preventing Oxidized low-density lipoprotein (Ox-LDL) induced endothelial injury. To study the protective effects of OA on ox-LDL-induced HUVECs autophagic flux dysfunction and inflammatory injury. Methods: OA were isolated by water extraction and alcohol precipitation, and then the content of ferulic acid (FA) in the OA was determined by high performance liquid chromatography. The ox-LDL-induced endothelial injury model was established. The effect of ferulic acid on the survival of Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HVUECs) was detected by CCK-8 assay. HUVECs were pretreated with different concentrations of OA (20 µmol/L, 40 µmol/L, and 80 µmol/L), and Western Blot was used to detect the expressions of LC3II, p62, MCP-1, VCAM-1 and LOX-1. The autophagosomes in HUVECs were observed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Results: 20 µmol/L OA could increase the expression of LC3II and decrease the expression of p62, MCP-1, VCAM-1 and LOX-1. The results of TEM showed that angelica organic acids promoted cell organelle degradation in autolysosomes. Conclusion: OA could reduce inflammation, protect endothelial cells and play an anti-atherosclerotic role by enhancing the autophagy flux of damaged endothelial cells, in which FA the major active ingredient of OA played a major role. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two chalcones, e.g. 4-hydroxyderricin and xanthoangelol, have been proven in revealing many potential pharmacological activities, therefore their extraction method is critical because it influences the yield and, furthermore, its pharmacological activities. This review highlights the extraction method and various pharmacological activities of 4-hydroxyderricin and xanthoangelol from Angelica keiskei plants. The chalcone's diverse pharmacological activities are attributed to the flexible conformation of the opened-C ring and the moderate lipophilicity character on the A aromatic ring. The presence of a double bond in conjugation with carbonyl moiety is also important. However, further explorations need to be performed to obtain a remarkable yield of these particular prenylated-compounds and to understand their mechanisms of actions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Angelica decursiva Franchet & Savatier is a traditional medicinal plant used to treat asthma, cough, headache, pyrexia and thick phlegm in China, Japan and Korea. A. decursiva contains many types of coumarins, which can exert several pharmacological activities including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties for treating various diseases such as pneumonitis, atopic dermatitis, diabetes, and Alzheimer's disease. In this study, we analyzed the components of A. decursiva ethanol extract (ADE) by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and investigated the therapeutic effects of ADE against allergic asthma using lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimulated RAW264.7 cells and an ovalbumin (OVA)-exposed allergic asthma model. To elucidate the mechanism of action of ADE, we examined the protein expression through network pharmacological analysis. To establish asthma model, the mice were sensitized on day 0 and 14 via intraperitoneal injection of OVA with aluminum hydroxide. The mice were inhaled with OVA using an ultrasonic nebulizer on day 21, 22 and 23. ADE (50 and 100 mg/kg) was administered to mice by oral gave form day 18–23. On day 24, airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR) was measured using flexivent. On day 25, the mice were sacrificed and collected bronchoalveolar lavage fluids (BALF), serum and lung tissue. In LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 cell, nitric oxide and cytokines were measured. Additionally, expression of nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor (Nrf2) and suppression of nuclear factor (NF)-κB were detected using double-immunofluorescence. We detected the five coumarin components which included nodakenin, umbelliferon, (−)-marmesin (=nodakenetin), bergapten, and decursin, in ADE by high performance liquid chromatography. Treatment with ADE decreased the production of nitric oxide, interleukin (IL)-6 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α in LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 cells accompanied by the enhanced expression of nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor (Nrf2) and suppression of nuclear factor (NF)-κB. In the asthma model, the administration of ADE reduced inflammatory cell count and airway hyperresponsiveness in OVA-exposed animals with decreased levels of IL-4, IL-13, and OVA-specific immunoglobulin E. These results were accompanied by the reduction of pulmonary inflammation and mucus secretion. Furthermore, ADE administration inhibited the expression of NF-κB and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9 in OVA-exposed animals, which was consistent with the results of network pharmacological analysis. This study demonstrated that ADE effectively attenuated allergic inflammation induced by OVA inhalation through the enhancement of Nrf2 expression and suppression of NF-κB expression. Therefore, ADE may be a potential therapeutic agent for controlling asthma. [Display omitted] • Protective effects of Angelica decursiva on ovalbumin induced allergic asthma. • A. decursiva inhibited allergic responses induced by ovalbumin exposure. • Protective effects of A. decursiva were related with NF-κB/MMP-9 and Nrf2. • A. decursiva increased Nrf2 expression and decreased NF-κB/MMP-9 expression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: ChondroT, a new herbal medication, consists of Angelica grosseserrata Maxim., Lonicera japonica Thunb., Angelica gigas Nakai, Clematis terniflora var. manshurica (Rupr.) Ohwi, and Phellodendron amurense Rupr. (6:4:4:4:3). Our previous studies have shown that ChondroT exhibits significant anti-arthritic and anti-inflammatory effects. In this study, we aimed to assess the toxicological safety assessment of ChondroT. Methods: This study was designed to assess the safety of ChondroT after repeated oral administration. Male and female Sprague-Dawley rats were treated with ChondroT at oral doses of 0, 500, 1000, and 2000 mg/kg for 13 weeks. Mortality, clinical signs, body weight changes, food consumption, ophthalmological findings, urinalysis, hematological and blood-chemical parameters, necropsy findings, organ weights, and histological markers were recorded throughout the study period. Rats were also monitored for an additional 4 weeks to determine the recovery time. Results: No death occurred and no significant changes in food consumption, ophthalmologic findings, and urinalysis were found. Although there were alterations in clinical signs, body weights, hematological parameters, blood-chemical parameters, necropsy findings, organ weights, and histological markers, they were not considered to be toxicologically significant. Conclusions: The results suggest that the no-observed adverse effects level (NOAEL) was 2000 mg/kg/day for the test substance. ChondroT, a new complex herbal medication composed of five plants, can therefore be used safely at the NOAEL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose. We aimed to find the possible key targets of Yougui pill and Buzhong Yiqi decoction for the treatment of sexual dysfunction. Materials and Methods. The composition of Yougui pill combined with Buzhong Yiqi decoction was obtained, and its effective components of medicine were screened using ADME; the component target proteins were predicted and screened based on the TCMSP and BATMAN databases. Target proteins were cross-validated using the CTD database. We performed gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analyses for target proteins using the Cytoscape plugin ClueGO + CluePedia and the R package clusterProfiler, respectively. Subsequently, protein-protein interaction (PPI) analyses were conducted using the STRING database. Finally, a pharmacological network was constructed. Results. The pharmacological network contained 89 nodes and 176 relation pairs. Among these nodes, there were 12 for herbal medicines (orange peel, licorice, Eucommia, Aconite, Astragalus, Chinese wolfberry, yam, dodder seed, ginseng, Cornus officinalis, Rehmannia, and Angelica), 9 for chemical components (18-beta-glycyrrhetinic acid, carvacrol, glycyrrhetinic acid, higenamine, nobilin, quercetin, stigmasterol, synephrine, and thymol), 62 for target proteins (e.g., NR3C1, ESR1, PTGS2, CAT, TNF, INS, and TP53), and 6 for pathways (MAPK signaling pathway, proteoglycans in cancer, dopaminergic synapse, thyroid hormone signaling pathway, cAMP signaling pathway, and neuroactive ligand-receptor interaction). Conclusion. NR3C1, ESR1, PTGS2, CAT, TNF, INS, and TP53 may be important targets for the key active elements in the decoction combining Yougui pill and Buzhong Yiqi. Furthermore, these target proteins are relevant to the treatment of sexual dysfunction, probably via pathways associated with cancer and signal transduction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To decrease microbial quantity and conserve antioxidant substances of Ashitaba leaves, microwave freeze-drying was conducted at 1, 1.5, and 2 W/g in pilot scale. After drying, microbial inactivation and quality parameters of color, chlorophylls, flavonoids, moisture content, and flavor of dried Ashitaba leaves were evaluated. After drying, the highest contents of chlorophylls and flavonoids maintained 14.62 g/kg and 15.75 mg/g, respectively; microbial colonies decreased by about 2-log; various tastes of dried sample were improved. It could be a suitable dehydration in processing of Ashitaba leaves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Long-term exposure to an elevated ambient carbon dioxide (eCO2) concentration could weaken or diminish the enhancement of plant photosynthesis and growth. To monitor this response and offer references for growth management, the whole-plant photosynthetic rate (Pn,w) and dark respiration rate (Rd,w) of Angelica acutiloba Kitagawa transplants were monitored with a growth chamber. The results showed that eCO2 increased both the Pn,w and Rd,w by (79 ± 42)% and (126 ± 51)%. The dry weight of transplants under eCO2 was 33.6% greater than that under aCO2. However, the photosynthetic acclimation to eCO2 occurred. The increase in the Pn,w was maintained until the end of the experiment due to increased leaf area. Moreover, the increase in plant dry weight mainly occurred in the first 15 days of treatment. Furthermore, the dry weight estimated based on the Pn,w and Rd,w agreed well with the measured dry weight. The relative growth rate (RGR) calculated with the estimated dry weight demonstrated the response of transplant growth to eCO2. These results indicated that the proposed method can be used to monitor the response of plant growth to eCO2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Angelica keiskei koidzumi (ashitaba) is consumed as a traditional folk medicine and health food in Japan. Ashitaba extract contains abundant flavonoids containing chalcones. Plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) is the primary physiological inhibitor of tissue plasminogen activator. Excessive amounts of PAI-1 in plasma disrupt the fibrinolytic balance and promote a prothrombotic state with which thrombosis and cardiovascular diseases are associated. In the present study, we investigated the effects of ashitaba yellow exudate (AE) on enhanced PAI-1 levels in Tsumura Suzuki obese diabetic (TSOD) mice. AE significantly decreased food efficiency and plasma PAI-1 in TSOD mice but did not affect lean control Tsumura Suzuki nonobese (TSNO) mice. AE also decreased some parameters in the plasma, such as glucose, insulin, tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) and gains in body weight, subcutaneous, mesenteric fat weight in TSOD mice but had little effect on these parameters in TSNO mice. Levels of adipose PAI-1 were significantly higher in TSOD than in TSNO mice. Major sources of plasma PAI-1 are thought to be adipose tissue and liver. AE significantly suppressed PAI-1 protein levels in the livers of both TSOD and TSNO mice. These results suggest that AE decreased plasma PAI-1 levels by suppressing both the adipose tissue retention of PAI-1 protein and liver PAI-1 production in TSOD mice. Supplementing the diet with AE might help to prevent thrombotic diseases or alleviate the risk of thrombotic diseases as well as to suppress metabolic state in obese individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mastitis in dairy cattle is a highly prevalent infectious disease, causing considerable economic loss worldwide. In this study, we used Angelica dahurica and Rheum officinale extracts (designated as Yi-Xiong-Tang, YXT) for mastitis treatment. California mastitis test (CMT) was performed and 67 mastitis udder quarters were identified among 179 lactating dairy cows. These 67 mastitis udder quarters were subjected to treatments by intramammary infusion of YXT twice a day for three consecutive days. The mastitis indicators including clots, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), TNF-α, IL-6, IL-8, and total viable count of bacteria (TVC) in milk were examined before and after the YXT treatment to evaluate its effectiveness. Levels of mastitis indicators from mastitis udder quarters were elevated. After YXT treatment, normal levels of these indicators were restored: TVC, 2.10 × 104 – 9.20 × 106 CFU/mL; clots, 6.56 ± 0.43 mg/mL; LDH, 181.0 ± 18.55 U/L; TNF-α, 0.02 ± 0.02 ng/mL; IL-6, 41.4 ± 11.46 pg/mL; and IL-8, 1.85 ± 0.60 pg/mL. Compared with the antibiotic therapy, YXT treatment has a shorter treatment course and might have lower probability for the causative agents to develop drug resistance because YXT is in fact a cocktail containing multiple active ingredients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Osteoblasts are an important key factor for the pathogenesis of several bone-related diseases, notably in osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is a disorder categorized based on the bone mineral density (BMD) and an alteration in the bone micro-architecture had been considered as the major determinant for increasing the fracture risk. The available medicine for curing the osteoporosis shows a minimal or no activity against the genesis or function of osteoblasts. The present study was conducted to determine the influence of phyto Angelica species (Ang.) mediated synthesized copper quantum dots decorated chitosan on human osteoblast cells for application of osteoporosis. The phyto compound of Angelica sp. was extracted by ethanol as solvent and it has been characterized through spectral analyses. An Angelica sp. mediated synthesized copper oxide quantum dots (CuO QDs) and the presence of CuO QDs on chitosan have been analyzed and exhibited by important spectral investigations. The morphological observation of CuO QDs on the chitosan (CS) was visualized by the microscopic analyses. The MTT assay results showed that cell growth of CuO QDs/CS-Ang. by the concentration dependent. The highest cell growth (87%) was noted at 5 μg/mL followed by 80 and 77% at 15 and 25 μg/mL respectively. The functional groups and potential compounds of Angelica sp. with CuO QDs/CS has been improved the osteoblast cell activity as prophylactic potentials against osteoporosis. Graphical abstract Unlabelled Image Highlights • The ethanol extract of Angelica sp. assisted synthesis of CuO QDs with chitosan. • The fast cell cycle progression was observed in 100 μg/mL (IC 50) than control. • Higher amount of LDH release was found in higher concretion of sample. • Effectiveness of synthesized product against the osteoblast cell is a promising alternate in the line of osteoporosis treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: ChondroT, a new herbal medication, consists of the water extracts of Osterici Radix, Lonicerae Folium, Angelicae Gigantis Radix, Clematidis Radix, and Phellodendri Cortex (6:4:4:4:3). We previously reported that ChondroT showed significant anti-arthritis and anti-inflammatory effects. Methods: This study was designed to evaluate the effect of ChondroT on hyperuricemia. First, the effect of ChondroT was evaluated on xanthine oxidase (XOD) activity in vitro. The anti-hyperuricemic effect of ChondroT was also studied in potassium oxonate (PO)-induced hyperuricemic model mice. Uric acid (UA) and XOD were evaluated in the serum, urine, and liver of the mice. In addition, we measured serum creatinine (Cr) and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels as well as mRNA expression of the mouse urate transporter 1 (mURAT1) to evaluate kidney function and urate excretion in hyperuricemic mice. Results: ChondroT showed in vitro XOD inhibitory activity in a dose-dependent manner (P < 0.05). We demonstrated that ChondroT (37.5, 75 and 150 mg/kg) significantly reduced serum UA (P < 0.01 and P < 0.001, respectively), and upregulated urinary UA (P < 0.001, respectively) in PO-induced hyperuricemic mice. In addition, ChondroT (75 and 150 mg/kg) significantly reduced Cr (P < 0.05 and P < 0.01, respectively), BUN (P < 0.05 and P < 0.001, respectively), GOT (P < 0.05 and P < 0.01, respectively), and GPT (P > 0.05 and P < 0.05, respectively) levels in PO-induced hyperuricemic mice. ChondroT (75 and 150 mg/kg) also significantly downregulated serum (P < 0.05) and liver (P < 0.05) XOD activity. Compared to the hyperuricemic mice, the ChondroT (37.5, 75, and 150 mg/kg)-treated mice showed decreased mURAT1 protein expression level. Conclusion: ChondroT displayed anti-hyperuricemic effects by regulating XOD activity and kidney mURAT1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Eighteen transcriptomes of Angelica dahurica roots and leaves are sequenced and analyzed. • Both simple and complex coumarin biosynthesis pathways are explored. • Regulatory relationships between TFs and coumarin biosynthesis genes are found. • Coumarins are synthesized in leaves and subsequently accumulate in roots. • Cytochrome P450 enzymes, transporters and ubiquitin systems contribute to coumarin biosynthesis. Angelica dahurica roots have a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine due to their high coumarin content. To address the increasing demand for these roots, a synthetic biology approach has been proposed. Nevertheless, our comprehension of coumarin biosynthesis and its regulation remains limited. In this study, we utilized Hiseq2500 sequencing to analyze the transcriptomes of A. dahurica at different growth stages while concurrently quantifying coumarin content. Differentially expressed gene (DEG) analysis was employed to identify key genes involved in coumarin and terpenoid backbone biosynthesis. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) was applied to identify gene modules strongly associated with coumarin content, elucidating the regulatory relationships between transcription factors (TFs) and pathway genes. Furthermore, KEGG enrichment analysis was used to explore essential pathways governing coumarin biosynthesis, with the identification of hub genes. Our results indicated that total coumarin content was highest in the roots, followed by leaves and stems, across all three developmental stages. Transcriptome analysis identified a total of 92,478 genes, among which 215 and 30 genes were implicated in coumarin and terpenoid backbone biosynthesis, respectively. Within the 73 identified gene modules by WGCNA, three modules—namely aquamarine1 (comprising two OMTs, one CSE, one AACT, one HDS, two PSs, one 2OGO, four UGTs, and seven CYP450s), darkmagenta (containing one UGT and one HDR), and navajowhite2 (consisting of one HCT, three UGTs, one CYP71A25, one OMT, one CSE, one HDS, and one PT)—were strongly associated with imperatorin, oxypeucedanin, and isoimperatorin content, respectively. KEGG enrichment analysis highlighted significant enrichment of cytochrome P450, transporter, and ubiquitin system pathways. Moreover, TF-gene regulatory analysis unveiled the complexity of coumarin biosynthesis, with 17 TF families regulating 17 genes in the aquamarine1 module, 8 TF families regulating 2 genes in the darkmagenta module, and 8 TF families regulating 7 genes in the navajowhite2 module. These comprehensive findings provide valuable insights into coumarin biosynthesis in A. dahurica , facilitating future research and potential applications in traditional Chinese medicine and synthetic biology strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Angelicae pubescentis radix (APR) has a long history in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in China. It has the effects of dispelling wind to eliminate dampness, removing arthralgia and stopping pain in the Chinese Pharmacopeia, but its mechanisms was remained unclear. Columbianadin (CBN), one of the main bioactive compounds of APR, has many pharmacological effects including anti-inflammatory and immunosuppression. However, there are few reports on therapeutic effect of CBN on RA. A comprehensive strategy via incorporating pharmacodynamics, microbiomics, metabolomics, and multiple molecular biological methods was adopted to evaluate the therapeutic effects of CBN on collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) mice and explore the potential mechanisms. A variety of pharmacodynamic methods were used to evaluate the therapeutic effect of CBN on CIA mice. The microbial and metabolic characteristics of CBN anti-RA were obtained by metabolomics and 16S rRNA sequencing technology. The potential mechanism of CBN anti-RA was predicted through bioinformatics network analysis, and verified by a variety of molecular biology methods. CBN can effectively improved symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis in CIA mice, including paw swelling and arthritic scores. The inflammatory and oxidative stress were effectively regulated by the treatment of CBN. The fecal microbial communities and serum and urine metabolic compositions were significantly altered in CIA mice, CBN can ameliorate the CIA-associated gut microbiota dysbiosis, and regulate the disturbance of serum and urine metabolome. The acute toxicity test showed that the LD50 of CBN was greater than 2000 mg kg−1. CBN exert anti-RA effects from four perspectives: inhibiting inflammatory response, regulating oxidative stress, and improving changes in gut microbiota and metabolites. The JAK1/STAT3, NF-κB and Keap1/Nrf2 pathway may be important mechanism for CBN's inflammatory response and oxidative stress activity. CBN could be considered as a potential anti-RA drug for further study. [Display omitted] • The therapeutic effects of columbianadin on rheumatoid arthritis (RA) were investigated. • Columbianadin altered the metabolites and gut microbiota of CIA mice. • The inflammatory and oxidative stress were effectively regulated by columbianadin. • JAK1/STAT3, NF-κB and Keap1/Nrf2 pathways may be mechanism for columbianadin anti-RA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of herbs with medicinal value and biomedical effects has increased tremendously in the last years. However, inadequate basic knowledge of their mode of action is the main issue related to phytotherapy, although they have shown promising potential. To provide insights into these important issues, we tested here on appropriate in vitro models the efficacy of Angelica archangelica essential oil (Aa-EO) for anti-inflammatory properties. The results demonstrated that Aa-EO induced significant apoptosis and necrosis at high doses in U937 cells. We used nontoxic concentrations to treat for anti-inflammatory capacity. The results also demonstrated a decreased proinflammatory cytokine interleukin-6 level in human umbilical vein endothelial cells, as senescence in vitro model, when cells are challenged with lipopolysaccharide (LPS), one of the most powerful proinflammatory inducer in the presence of Aa-EO. In addition, down expression of miR-126 and miR-146a (inflammamirs) produced by LPS stimulation was reverted by Aa-EO simultaneous treatment. These results provide noteworthy basis for the development/formulation of new drugs for future clinical uses and new food products or dietary supplements for contrasting inflammation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was carried out to investigate the effects of dietary supplementation of hydroalcoholic extract of Heracleum Persicum fruit (HPE) on performance, immune responses, small intestine morphology, haematological parameters and carcass characteristics of broiler chickens. A total of 300 day-old Ross 308 broiler chicks were used in a completely randomized design with five treatments and five replicates of 12 chicks each. The treatments were comprised of a corn-soybean meal base diet supplemented with five levels of HPE at 0(control), 100, 200, 300 and 400 mg/kg diet. Average daily feed intake (ADFI) was increased by 100 mg/kg of HPE comparing to control group during 11-24 d (p < 0.05). HPE at the levels of 200, 300 and 400 mg/kg, decreased (p < 0.05) serum cholesterol comparing to control group and showed a linear response to different levels of HPE (p = 0.0007). Also, LDL was decreased by 300 mg/kg of HPE (p < 0.05). The villus height to crypt depth ratio (VH/CD) was increased by 400 mg/kg of HPE, comparing to control group at 42 d (p < 0.05). Also, this ratio showed a linear response to different levels of HPE (p = 0.007). The results of this study indicated that HPE improves performance and intestine morphometrical and haematological parameters of broiler chickens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • Rapid analysis of Schisandrae Fructus by MALDI-MS. • Brief extraction of the samples for the analysis or direct analysis of the sample powders. • Detection of major lignans in Fructus Schisandrae. • Rapid differentiation of Schisandra sphenanthera and Schisandra chinensis. Abstract Schisandrae sphenanthera (S. sphenanthera , southern magnoliavine fruit, Nan-Wuweizi) and Schisandrae chinensis (S. chinensis , northern magnoliavine fruit, Bei-Wuweizi) belong to Fructus Schisandrae (Wuweizi), and are commonly used herbal medicines. The quality of S. chinensis is believed to be superior to that of S. sphenanthera. In this study, a matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry (MALDI-MS)-based approach has been developed and demonstrated for rapid differentiation of S. sphenanthera and S. chinensis for the first time. The MALDI-MS spectra acquired with a brief extraction of the samples showed significantly different patterns for the two species. S. sphenanthera and S. chinensis could be unambiguously differentiated based on detection of the specific compounds (e.g., schisandrin at m/z 432 for S. chinensis and schisantherin A at m/z 575 for S. sphenanthera), intensity ratios of characteristic peaks (e.g., m/z 416 vs. m/z 415 and m/z 138 vs. m/z 136), and principal component analysis of the spectra. Direct analysis of the herbal powders by MALDI-MS could also allow differentiation of S. sphenanthera and S. chinensis. These approaches are rapid, simple, robust, and can be used for high throughput analysis of S. sphenanthera and S. chinensis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To explore the preventive effect of applying hot compress with Chinese herbal salt packets (CHSP) to puncture vessels under aseptic conditions during peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) on postoperative phlebitis.Methods: A total of 720 hospitalized patients undergoing first PICC were assigned to treatment and control groups (360 cases each group) according to a random number table. The control group received conventional catheterization and nursing care. The treatment group was first given hot compress with CHSP (which consisted of honeysuckle 30 g, Semen brassicae 30 g, Salvia miltiorrhiza 30 g, Angelica dahurica 30 g, Semen raphani 30 g, Evodia rutaecarpa 30 g, and coarse salt 20 g) on the punctured vessel under aseptic conditions for 5-10 min before conventional catheterization. The main efficacy indices were the vessel diameters before and during catheterization and the success rate of a single catheter, and the secondary efficacy indiex was the incidence of superficial phlebitis within 1 week after catheterization.Results: The vessel diameter during catheterization of the treatment group was remarkably increased compared with the control group [(7.96±0.42) mm vs. (4.39±0.54) mm, P<0.01]. The success rate of the single catheter of the treatment group was significantly higher than that of the control group [94.00% (329/350) vs. 73.72% (244/329), P<0.01]. The incidence of superficial phlebitis within 1 week after catheterization in the treatment group was lower than that in the control group (P=0.007). There was no adverse event with CHSP.Conclusion: Hot compress with CHSP during PICC is applicable as it can effectively improve the success rate of a single catheter and reduce the incidence of superficial phlebitis after catheterization (Trial registration No. ChiCTR-ONC-17010498). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Columbianadin and its metabolite columbianetin exhibited the anti-inflammatory, analgesic, calcium channel blocking and antitumor activities. To compare the differences between pharmacokinetics of columbianadin and its metabolite columbianetin after oral administration of pure columbianadin and Angelicae Pubescentis Radix (APR) extract, a simple and sensitive liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) method was established and validated to simultaneously determine columbianadin and columbianetin in rat plasma. Two analytes and an internal standard (warfarin) were well separated and determined after liquid-liquid extraction with ethyl acetate. Ammonium acetate aqueous solution (1 mmol/L) and acetonitrile were used as the mobile phase and the flow rate was 0.3 mL/min. The lower limit of quantification (LLOQ) was 0.1 ng/mL for columbianetin and 0.5 ng/mL for columbianadin, respectively. There were significant differences between some pharmacokinetic parameters and bioavailability of columbianadin after oral administration of pure columbianadin and APR extract. The studies on comparative pharmacokinetics of columbianadin were of great use for facilitating the clinical application of columbianadin and were also highly meaningful for the potential development of APR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]