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Objective To investigate the effect and the mechanism of Astragalus membranaceus (Huangqi in Chinese, HQ) extract on the intestinal absorption of six alkaloids of Aconitum carmichaelii (Fuzi in Chinese, FZ) in rats with spleen deficiency and provide novel insights into the application of HQ on modulating intestinal barrier. Methods Four-week-old male Sprague-Dawley rats were fed with Xiaochengqi Decoction to induce the spleen deficiency model for 40 d. Single-pass intestinal perfusion model were used to study the effects of HQ extract on the absorption of alkaloids. Protein expression and mRNA levels of MRP2 and BCRP and tight junction proteins (TJ, including Claudin-1, Occludin and ZO-1) were measured using Western blot and real-time PCR, respectively. The location and expression of TJ protein was also investigated by the immunofluorescence method. Results Compared with the normal group, the protein expression of MRP2, BCRP and TJ proteins in the model group were significantly down-regulated. After oral administration of HQ, the alkaloid absorption in intestinal villi was inhibited, MRP2, BCRP and TJ proteins were up-regulated, the green fluorescence staining of Claudin-1, Occludin, and ZO-1 was enhanced, and a thick layer of mucus was deposited on the surface of the epithelium of the intestinal cavity. Conclusion HQ as an intestinal barrier modulator improves the physiological changes of the intestinal environment of spleen deficiency to reduce the absorption of toxic components, leading to a decrease in the absorption of drug-like molecules.

Objective Astragalus Radix (AR, Huangqi in Chinese) has been widely used as a qi (energy) restoring herb that is thought to act through reinvigorating the spleen and lung. Aconite is used to rebalance the body temperature during illness and played an irreplaceable role in disease control since ancient times, but it is limited by its strong neuro and cardiotoxicity. Since the Song Dynasty (1227), the two herbs have been commonly used as herbal pairs including in the famous Qifu Decotion, from the “Wei's Family Prescription”. However, many ancient texts also record that they are not compatible using together, suggesting they can have negative outcomes when mixed. This study investigated whether Astragali Radix had either positive or negative effects on absorption of six different active alkaloids derived from aconite. Methods Single intestinal perfusion model was used to study the effects of Astragali Radix on aconite alkaloids absorption. Response of ABC transporters and distribution of three tight junction proteins on the surface of intestinal enothelium were assessed by Reverse Transcription-Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR), Western blot and immunofluorescence microscopy, respectively. Results The results showed that aconite alkaloids absorption could be inhibited, and different concentrations of Astragali Radix considerably increased the expression levels of the ABC transporters and tight junction proteins with Astragali Radix treatment. Conclusion These results suggest that Astragali Radix can block absorption of aconite alkaloids through the upregulation expression of ATP-binding cassette transporters (ABC transporters) and tight junction proteins. It demonstrates that co-administration of Astragali Radix with other drugs might change the absorption profile of the second drug which is important to know in clinic therapy.

The present study explored the effect of co-amorphous technology in improving the dissolution rate and stability of silybin based on the puerarin-silybin co-amorphous system prepared by the spray-drying method. Solid-state characterization was carried out by powder X-ray diffraction(PXRD), polarizing microscopy(PLM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy(FT-IR), differential scanning calorimetry(DSC), etc. Saturated powder dissolution, intrinsic dissolution rate, moisture absorption, and stability were further investigated. The results showed that puerarin and silybin formed a co-amorphous system at a single glass transition temperature which was higher than that of any crude drug. The intrinsic dissolution rate and supersaturated powder dissolution of silybin in the co-amorphous system were higher than those of the crude drug and amorphous system. The co-amorphous system kept stable for as long as three months under the condition of 40 ℃, 75% relative humidity, which was longer than that of the single amorphous silybin. Therefore, the co-amorphous technology could significantly improve the dissolution and stability of silybin.

Three minor new dihydrobenzofuran-type norneolignans, tamariscinols U–W (1–3), and two known phenolics were isolated from the ethanolic extract of Selaginella tamariscina. Their structures were elucidated on the basis of extensive spectroscopic analysis. All isolates were evaluated for their inhibitory effects against the mushroom tyrosinase. Compounds 1 was the most potent compound (IC50 = 5.75 μM), which exhibited a threefold activity as that of the positive control, kojic acid.

Drug resistance resulting from bacterial biofilms can invalidate antibacterial agents. Therefore,eradicating bacterial biofilms to reverse drug resistance is a hotspot in the pharmaceutical research. In recent years,numerous studies have revealed the complicated mechanism of bacterial biofilm formation and strong drug resistance with multiple influential factors involved. This paper gives a comprehensive review on the process of biofilm formation and intervention by natural drugs,which can provide some reference and evidence for the following studies.

To verify the appropriate preparation process of extracts for the solid substance benchmark of Linggui Zhugan Decoction. The extracts were prepared by different preparation processes, namely the traditional process(process 1), the extract combined with volatile oil separated from traditional process extract liquid(process 2), the modern secondary reflux extraction process(process 3) and the process that volatile oil was extracted first, then prepared according to the traditional process, and combined with extract(process 4); based on the characteristic spectrum, index components of cinnamaldehyde, glycyrrhizin, ammonium glycyrrhizinate, cinnamic acid, and the dry extract rate of process 1, the differences and similarities of four extracts were compared. The results showed that the similarity of the characteristic spectrum of process 2, process 4 and process 1 were all greater than 0.97, while there was no significant difference for the content of 4 quality control components and dry extract rate; the similarity of the characteristic spectrum of process 3 and process 1 was 0.91, the absolute peak area of 13 out of 21 peaks and the relative peak area of 7 peaks increased significantly, and the content of 3 out of 4 quality control components and dry extract rate also significantly increased. In conclusion, the material standards of extracts by the process 2 and 4 are consistent with that of the traditional process, so the two processes are suitable.

Multidrug resistance of tumors has been a severe obstacle to the success of cancer chemotherapy. The study wants to investigate the reversal effects of imperatorin (IMP) on doxorubicin (DOX) resistance in K562/DOX leukemia cells, A2780/Taxol cells and in NOD/SCID mice, to explore the possible molecular mechanisms. K562/DOX and A2780/Taxol cells were treated with various concentrations of DOX and Taol with or without different concentrations of IMP, respectively. K562/DOX xenograft model was used to assess anti-tumor effect of IMP combined with DOX. MTT assay, Rhodamine 123 efflux assay, RT-PCR, and Western blot analysis were determined

Depression is a mood disorder or affective disorder disease with depression as the main symptom. It has become a kind of mental disease that cannot be ignored in the world that seriously endangers human physical and mental health. Antidepressants commonly used in clinics generally have some defects, including slow action, unremarkable effects, and large side-effects. Therefore, there has a huge developing space for the research of new and effective therapeutic drugs to supplement or replace traditional drugs. The essential oil has obvious advantages in the treatment of depression and other emotional diseases, its aromatic odor can directly stimulate the olfactory nerves, and the lipophilic small-molecular compounds can cross the blood-brain barrier easily to play its regulatory role of releasing neurotransmitters and hormones related to depression, or adjusting the expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor and proinflammatory cytokines. The pathogenesis of depression and the problems in traditional medication were illustrated, the research on the antidepressant effects and mechanism of essential oils in recent years is summarized, and the antidepressant chemical components in plant essential oils are reviewed in this article. The article provides scientific basis for an essential oil to be a new choice for relieving depression and treating depression.

Objectives The current study was focused on preparing curcumin (CUR) supersaturated self-nano-emulsion (PI-CUR-SNEDDS) using hydrophilic polymer and to study the influence of polymer precipitation inhibitor on the physicochemical and biopharmaceutical properties of the PI-CUR-SNEDDS. Methods PI-CUR-SNEDDS were prepared using hydrophilic polymer in order to maintain the supersaturation of CUR in nano-emulsion solution, artificial gastrointestinal fluid (AGF), and the precipitates formed, and characterised by in vitro dispersion tests, in vitro intestinal absorption and in vivo pharmacokinetic and compared with CUR-SNEDDS. Key findings PI-CUR-SNEDDS prepared with 2% hydroxypropyl methylcellulose 55–60 (HPMC55-60) as precipitation inhibitor (PI) significantly improved the viscosity, physical stability and CUR’s equilibrium solubility of nanoemulsion. HPMC55-60 and CUR interact in AGF through intermolecular interactions, form hydrogen bonds, and produce amorphous precipitates. Compared with CUR-SNEDDS, the proportion of CUR in the hydrophilic phase increased by about 3-fold, and apparent permeability coefficient (Papp) in duodenum, jejunum, ileum, and colon increased by 2.30, 3.65, 1.54 and 2.08-fold, respectively, and the area under the plasma concentration-time curve0-12h of PI-CUR-SNEDDS also increased by 3.50-fold. Conclusions Our results suggested that HPMC55-60 maintained the CUR supersaturation state by forming hydrogen bonds with CUR, increasing the solution’s viscosity and drug solubilisation, thus improving the absorption and bioavailability of CUR.

In order to improve the supersaturation and maintenance time of drug dispersion in curcumin self-nanoemulsion(CUR-SNEDDS), precipitation inhibitors(PPIs) were introduced to prepare curcumin supersaturated self-emulsion(CUR-SSNEDDS). The composition of CUR-SNEDDS prescriptions was selected through the solubility test, the compatibility of oil phase and surfactant, the investigation of the emulsifying ability of the surfactant and the drawing of the pseudo-ternary phase diagram. Analytic hierarchy process was used in combination with central composite design-response surface method to optimize the prescription. The type and dosage of precipitation inhibitors(PPIs) were selected to maintain the supersaturated concentration and duration of CUR in artificial gastrointestinal fluids. At the same time, polarizing microscope was used to evaluate the crystallization inhibition effect and the quality and in vitro release behavior of CUR-SSNEDDS. The prepared CUR-SSNEDDS prescription was capryol 90-kolliphor RH40-transcutol HP-Soluplus(7.93∶66.71∶25.36∶5), with the drug loading of(65.12±1.25) mg·g~(-1). CUR-SSNEDDS was transparent yellow, and the nanoemulsion droplets were spherical with uniform distribution. The emulsification time was(21.02±0.13) s, the average particle size was(57.03±0.35) nm, the polydispersity index(PDI) was(0.23 ± 0.01), and the Zeta potential was(-18.10±1.30) mV. CUR-SSNEDDS significantly inhibited the generation and growth of crystals after in vitro dilution. The supersaturation could be maintained above 10 within 2 h, and the dissolution rate and degree of CUR in artificial gastrointestinal fluid were significantly increased. Soluplus could effectively maintain the supersaturated state of CUR and enhance CUR dissolution in vitro.

Xiang Li,1,* Qian Zou,1,* Jing Zhang,2 Peng Zhang,2 Xiong Zhou,1 Satya Siva Kishan Yalamarty,3 Xinli Liang,2 Yali Liu,4 Qin Zheng,2 Jianqing Gao5 1State Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug and Efficient Energy-Saving Pharmaceutical Equipment, Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi, People’s Republic of China; 2Key Laboratory of Modern Preparation of TCM, Ministry of Education, Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang 330004, Jiangxi, People’s Republic of China; 3Center for Pharmaceutical Biotechnology and Nanomedicine, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA; 4College of Science and Technology, Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang 330004, Jiangxi, People’s Republic of China; 5Institute of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, Zhejiang, People’s Republic of China*These authors contributed equally to this workCorrespondence: Jing ZhangKey Laboratory of Modern Preparation of TCM, Ministry of Education, Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang 330004, Jiangxi, People’s Republic of ChinaTel/Fax +86 791 87118658Email 20101036@jxutcm.edu.cnPurpose: Folic acid and cyclic arginylglycylaspartic acid peptides were introduced to the surface of negatively charged lipid-coated hybrid polydopamine-cysteine cores for the delivery of epirubicin (EPI) (E/PCF-NPs). The combined chemo-photothermal therapy using E/PCF-NPs for triple-negative breast cancer was evaluated.Materials and Methods: The temperature elevation and thermal toxicity of nanoparticles were studied. The morphology and properties of E/PCF-NPs were characterized by transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and atomic force microscopy. Physicochemical properties, including particle size, zeta potential, drug loading, entrapment efficiency (EE%), stability and in vitro release, were determined. The cell viability, reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, ratios of oxidized nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide to its reduced form (NAD+/NADH), apoptosis assays, and cellular uptake of E/PCF-NPs were determined on 4T1 cells. Pharmacokinetic studies and tissue distributions were performed and detected by an ultra-high performance liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry system. The antitumor effects of E/PCF-NPs under near-infrared (NIR) laser irradiation were also evaluated.Results: The sphere-like morphology of E/PCF-NPs showed a high EE%, uniform size of 106.7 nm, remarkable stability, and highly improved cytotoxicity under NIR laser, when compared to that of photothermal treatment alone. In vitro release of EPI from E/PCF-NPs was pH sensitive, and a greater response was achieved under NIR laser irradiation. Compared to chemotherapy or photothermal treatment alone, the combined treatment in vitro significantly inhibited the survival rate of 4T1 cells to 17.7%, induced ROS generation, and reduced NAD+/NADH significantly. Treatment with E/PCF-NPs under irradiation induced 4T1 cell apoptosis in approximately 93.6% cells. In vitro cellular uptake of E/PCF-NPs was time-dependent. The long-circulating and higher tumor accumulation of E/PCF-NPs resulted in complete ablation of breast tumor tissue through the enhanced photothermal effect by NIR laser irradiation-mediated cell apoptosis.Conclusion: E/PCF-NPs show enhanced anti-cancer effects due to synergistic effects of chemotherapy with photothermal therapy and may be potential therapeutic agents for cancer treatment.Keywords: polydopamine nanoparticles, L-cysteine, epirubicin, pharmacokinetics, triple-negative breast cancer

Single intestinal perfusion model was used to study the effects ofThe results showed that aconite alkaloids absorption could be inhibited, and different concentrations ofThese results suggest that

Objectives To investigate the effects of bergapten of Angelicae Dahuricae Radix on the transport of vincristine and its possible mechanism. Methods The apparent permeability coefficient (Papp) for the transport of vincristine through the membrane of MDCK-MDR1 cells was used as an indicator of the effect of bergapten on vincristine transport. Molecular docking was employed to predict the binding force between bergapten and P-glycoprotein (P-gp). The effects of bergapten on P-gp function and P-gp ATPase activity were determined by rhodamine 123 (Rho123) accumulation and activity analysis, respectively. 1,6-Diphenyl-1,3,5-hexatriene (DPH) was used to study the effects of bergapten on membrane fluidity, and Western blotting and quantitative real-time PCR assays were performed to analyze the effect of bergapten on the protein and mRNA expression of P-gp, respectively. These experiments clarified the effects of bergapten on the transport of vincristine and allowed exploration of the possible mechanism underlying the effects of bergapten. Results The results showed that bergapten could inhibit the transport of vincristine in MDCK-MDR1 cells, and the binding force between bergapten and P-gp was weaker. Bergapten could reduce the accumulation of Rh123 in MDCK-MDR1 cells, increase the membrane fluidity, and upregulate P-gp protein and mRNA expression but it had no effect on P-gp ATPase activity. Conclusions Overall, we concluded that the possible mechanism through which bergapten inhibits vincristine transport was related to the bergapten-mediated upregulation of P-gp protein and mRNA expression, membrane fluidity or P-gp enzyme activity.

Solid dispersion (SD) is the effective approach to improve the dissolution rate and bioavailability of class II drugs with low water solubility and high tissue permeability in the Biopharmaceutics Classification System. This study investigated the effects of polyethylene glycol (PEG) molecular weight in carrier material PEG palmitate on the properties of andrographolide (AG)-SD. We prepared SDs containing the poorly water-soluble drug AG by the freeze-drying method. The SDs were manufactured from two different polymers, PEG4000 palmitate and PEG8000 palmitate. The physicochemical properties of the AG-SDs were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, differential scanning calorimetry, powder X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, dissolution testing, and so on. We found that AG-PEG4000 palmitate-SD and AG-PEG8000 palmitate-SD were similar in the surface morphology, specific surface area, and pore volume. Compared with the AG-PEG4000 palmitate-SD, the intermolecular interaction between PEG8000 palmitate and AG was stronger, and the thermal stability of AG-PEG8000 palmitate-SD was better. In the meanwhile, the AG relative crystallinity was lower and the AG dissolution rate was faster in AG-PEG8000 palmitate-SD. The results demonstrate that the increasing PEG molecular weight in the PEG palmitate can improve the compatibility between the poorly water-soluble drug and carrier material, which is beneficial to improve the SD thermal stability and increases the dissolution rate of poorly water-soluble drug in the SD.

10-Hydroxycamptothecin (HCPT) is a broad-spectrum chemotherapeutic drug, although its side effects and multidrug resistance (MDR) limit its clinical application. A range of drug delivery systems have been utilized to overcome its shortcomings and maintain its therapeutic efficacy, however the use of the transport effect of traditional Chinese medicines (TCMs) to improve the distribution of chemotherapeutic drugs has not been widely reported. Platycodonis Radix (JG) and Glycyrrhizae Radix ET Rhizoma (GC) are common TCMs in clinics and are often combined as drug pairs to act as &ldquo, transport agents&rdquo, In the present study, the effect of JG and GC (JGGC) on the distribution of HCPT in tissues and its antitumor efficacy after being combined as a therapy were investigated, for which ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS) was used. Furthermore, the effect on the protein expression of multidrug resistance proteins (P-gp and LRP), and the immunomodulatory and synergistic antiapoptotic effect on Lewis lung cancer-bearing C57BL/6J mice were also evaluated. The results demonstrate that JGGC significantly increased the area under the concentration time curve (AUC) and mean residence time (MRT) and reduced the clearance rate (CL) of HCPT. In addition, the combined use of JGGC decreased the levels of LRP, P-gp and Bcl-2/Bax when treated with HCPT. JGGC also significantly elevated the levels of RBCs, PLTs, HGB, IL-2, and IFN-&gamma, and decreased IL-10 levels. In summary, an increased concentration of HCPT in tissues was observed when it was combined with JGGC through inhibition of efflux protein, with a synergistic enhancement of the anticancer effect observed through promotion of apoptosis and immunity due to a reversion of the Th1/Th2 shift. Our findings provide a reference for the feasibility of combining JGGC with chemotherapy drugs in clinical applications.

Background Gout is an inflammatory arthritis resulting from precipitation of monosodium urate (MSU) crystals in joints and surrounding tissues. However, the mechanism underlying high levels of uric acid inducing gouty arthritis has not been clarified. Objective The purpose was to investigate the role of Matrix Metalloproteinase-3 (MMP-3) in the development of gouty arthritis from hyperuricemia. Method MSU crystal-induced gouty arthritis model and chondrocytes were used to evaluate changes of MMP-3 levels. Western blot, qPCR and ELISA were performed to detect MMP-3, Tissue Inhibitors of Metalloproteinase-1 (TIMP-1) and A Disintegrin and Metalloproteinase with Thrombospondin Motifs-4 (ADAMTS-4) expressions in rabbit chondrocytes. Expression of proteoglycan was determined through toluidine blue staining. Concentrations of glycosaminoglycan, Interleukin-6 (IL-6), Interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and Tumor Necrosis Factor-α (TNF-α) in chondrocytes were assessed via ELISA kits. Concentration of uric acid in supernate was tested by Automatic Analyzer. Results MMP-3 was significantly increased in rat serum, synovial fluid, cartilages and chondrocytes treated with high-level uric acid. Increased concentration of glycosaminoglycan could be observed in chondrocytes incubated with MMP-3, as well as the remarkable downregulation of proteoglycan expression. Furthermore, high-level uric acid contributed to the degradation of proteoglycan via the activation of MMP-3. IL-6, IL-1β and TNF-α concentrations were increased significantly in 35 °C compared to 37 °C with MMP-3 and high-level uric acid. Conclusion Our study showed that MMP-3 was enhanced by high levels of uric acid, which promoted proteoglycan degradation, and induced MSU crystallization in turn. A low temperature environment is an important factor in the development of gout.

Imperatorin is a chemical compound belonging to the linear furanocoumarins. Imperatorin is attracting considerable attention because of its antitumor, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and anticoagulant activities, inhibition of myocardial hypertrophy, and other pharmacological efficacies. However, imperatorin has limited water solubility and has better lipid solubility, thus, we decided to design and synthesize imperatorin lipid microspheres to optimize the preparation conditions. The aim was to develop and formulate imperatorin lipid microspheres through nanoemulsion technology and apply the response surface&ndash, central composite design to optimize the imperatorin lipid microsphere formulation. The influence of the amounts of egg lecithin, poloxamer 188, and soybean oil for injection on the total percentage of the oil phase was investigated. The integrated effect of dependent variables, including particle size, polydispersity index, zeta potentials, drug loading, and encapsulation efficiency, was investigated. Data of overall desirabilities were fitted to a second-order polynomial equation, through which three-dimensional response surface graphs were described. Optimum experimental conditions were calculated by Design-Expert 8.06. Results indicated that the optimum preparation conditions were as follows: 1.39 g of egg lecithin, 0.21 g of poloxamer 188, and 10.57% soybean oil for injection. Preparation of imperatorin lipid microspheres according to the optimum experimental conditions resulted in an overall desirability of 0.7286, with the particle size of 168 &plusmn, 0.54 nm, polydispersity index (PDI) of 0.138 &plusmn, 0.02, zeta potentials of &minus, 43.5 &plusmn, 0.5 mV, drug loading of 0.833 &plusmn, 0.27 mg&middot, mL&minus, 1, and encapsulation efficiency of 90 &plusmn, 1.27%. The difference between the observed and predicted values of the overall desirability of the optimum formulation was in the range from 2.4% to 4.3%. Subsequently, scanning electron microscopy was used to observe the micromorphology of the imperatorin lipid microspheres, showing round globules of relatively uniform shape and sizes within 200 nm. The effect of imperatorin lipid microspheres on MDA-MB-231 proliferation was investigated by the MTT method. Furthermore, pharmacokinetics in Sprague-Dawley rats was evaluated using orbital bleeding. A sensitive and reliable liquid chromatography with the high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method was established and validated for the quantification of imperatorin in rat plasma samples. The data were calculated by DAS (drug and statistics) Pharmacokinetic Software version 3.3.0 (Version 3.3.0, Shanghai, China). Results demonstrated that imperatorin lipid microspheres can significantly enhance the bioavailability of imperatorin and can significantly inhibit MDA-MB-231 cell proliferation. In conclusion, our results suggested that the response surface&ndash, central composite design is suitable for achieving an optimized lipid microsphere formulation. Imperatorin lipid microspheres can improve the bioavailability of imperatorin and better inhibit the proliferation of MDA-MB-231 cells as compared to imperatorin alone.

P-glycoprotein affects the transport of numerous drugs including chemotherapeutic drugs vincristine sulfate (VCR) and docetaxel (DTX), and is one of the main causes for multidrug resistance. Our previous studies have shown that oxypeucedanin (OPD) can enhance the intestinal transit of puerarin and VCR. However, the underlying mechanism is unclear. This study investigated the potential mechanism by which OPD improves P-gp-mediated drug transport. Molecular docking was performed to predict the binding force between OPD and P-gp and the contribution of OPD on P-gp activity. We observed the effect of OPD on the transport of VCR in MDCK-MDR1 cell monolayer and also measured the plasma pharmacokinetic parameters of DTX in the presence and absence of OPD by LC-MS/MS. Moreover, we further investigated the reversal mechanism of OPD on P-gp-mediated drug transport by determining the intracellular accumulation of Rhodamine-123 (Rh123) and P-gp ATPase activity as well as protein expression and mRNA level of P-gp. Our molecular docking results revealed that the binding force between OPD and P-gp was much lower than that between P-gp and verapamil (a P-gp substrate). The transport study in vitro indicated that OPD increased the flux of VCR across MDCK-MDR1 cell monolayer. The in vivo pharmacokinetic parameters data showed OPD increased the absorption of DTX. OPD activated P-gp ATPase activity and enhanced intracellular accumulation of Rh123 in MDCK-MDR1 cells. Western blotting and qRT-PCR outcomes indicated that OPD suppressed P-gp protein expression as well as downregulated P-gp mRNA level. Thus, OPD reverse P-gp-mediated drug transport via inhibition of P-gp activity and P-gp protein expression as well as downregulation of P-gp mRNA level. Our results suggest that OPD could reverse P-gp-mediated drug resistance in tumor cells.

To optimize the prescription of tanshinone IIA lipid microspheres by central composite design method, and evaluate the quality. Through evaluating average particle size, stability constant and the encapsulation efficiency of the lipid microsphere to investigate the concentration of the egg yolk lecithin and the poloxamer and the percentage of Soybean oil in the total oil phase which may impact the properties of tanshinone IIA lipid microsphere. Building the mathematic relation between the index and factor by the binomial expression, according to the best mathematical model of the evaluation indicators to describe response surface and then to use response surface method to predict the best prescription which will be analysed. According to the prescription optimization to prepare tanshinone IIA lipid microsphere and evaluate its quality. The results showed that each index of the binomial equation fitting is good, the correlation coefficient of the average particle size, stability constant and the encapsulation efficiency are 0.97, 0.92 and 0.84 respectively. The optimized prescription is as follows: egg yolk lecithin1.38 g, F68 0.19 g, LCT 2 g, MCT 18 g, all the indexes of the optimized prescription are similar to the target values.

The objective of this study was to establish a quantitative method to evaluate the biotransportation of a drug across the cell membrane. Through the application of the law of mass conservation, the drug transportation rate was calculated based on Fick's law of passive diffusion and the Michaelis-Menten equation. The overall membrane-transportation rate was the sum of the passive diffusion rate and the carrier-mediated diffusion rate, which were calculated as the transportation mass divided by the respective rate. The active ingredients of Puerariae lobatae Radix and Chuanxiong rhizoma, namely, puerarin and ferulic acid, respectively, were used as two model drugs. The transportation rates of puerarin and ferulic acid were obtained by fitting a model that includes both Fick's law of diffusion and the Michaelis-Menten equation. Compared with the overall transportation, the carrier-mediated transport and passive diffusion of 1.59 mmol/L puerarin were -35.07% and 64.93%, respectively, whereas the respective transportation modes of 0.1 mmol/L ferulic acid were -35.40% and 64.60%, respectively. Verapamil and MK-571 increased the overall transport rate and ratio, and MK-571 treatment changed the carrier-mediated transport from negative to positive. However, the transport rate and ratio of ferulic acid did not change significantly. The cell transportation mechanisms of puerarin and ferulic acid primarily involve simple passive diffusion and carrier-mediated transportation. Moreover, P-glycoprotein and multidrug resistance-associated protein efflux proteins, and other transportation proteins were found to be involved in the transportation of puerarin. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

This study attempts to establish a method for the anti-thrombin activty bioassay of musk, explore the impact of species and producing areas on the anti-thrombin activty of musk, and provide scientific basis for its biological quality evaluation. Anti-thrombin activty of musk was analyzed by thrombin titration, and the influence factors such as musk solution concentration, fibrinogen concentration, thrombin concentration and titration interval were optimized to evaluate the effect of different species and producing areas on anti-thrombin activty of musk. As a result, there was a good linear relationship between musk solution concentration and thrombin consumption volume within the range of 0.01-0.02 g·mL⁻¹ (

Semen Strychni has been extensively used as a Chinese herb, but its therapeutic window is narrowed by the strong toxicity of the compound, which limits its effectiveness. Radix Paeoniae Alba has been reported to reduce the toxic effects and increase the therapeutic effects of Semen Strychni, but the underlying mechanism remains unknown. This research aimed to explore the mechanism through which P-glycoprotein (P-gp) is modulated by Semen Strychni combined with Radix Paeoniae Alba in vitro. An MTT assay was used to study cytotoxicity in an MDCK-MDR1 cell model. Rh123 efflux and accumulation were measured to assess P-gp function. The expression levels of MDR1 mRNA and P-gp protein in MDCK-MDR1 cells were investigated. A P-gp ATPase activity assay kit was applied to detect the effect on P-gp ATPase activity. Semen Strychni combined with Radix Paeoniae Alba could induce P-gp-mediated drug transport by inhibiting brucine and strychnine transport in MDCK-MDR1 cells, enhancing the P-gp efflux function, upregulating the P-gp expression and MDR1 mRNA levels, and stimulating P-gp ATPase activity.

The study was aimed to establish a liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometric method for the determination of the docetaxel concentration in rat plasma, and study the effect of coumarin constituents (imperatorin, isoimperatorin and oxypeucedanin) in Angelica dahurica on pharmacokinetics of docetaxel.Plasma was precipitated with acetonitrile and determined by LC-MS method with Paclitaxel as an internal standard. The specificity, linearity, range, accuracy, precision and stability of the method were suitable for the determination of docetaxel in plasma.Six sprague-dawley rats in each group received intragastric administration of docetaxel (50 mg•kg⁻¹), oxypeucedanin (8 mg•kg⁻¹) combined with docetaxel (50 mg•kg⁻¹), imperatorin (15 mg•kg⁻¹) combined with docetaxel (50 mg•kg⁻¹), and isoimperatorin(15 mg•kg⁻¹) combined with docetaxel (50 mg•kg⁻¹).Their drug plasma concentration was determined by LC-MS with Paclitaxel as an internal standard to draw plasma concentration-time curve, and the phamacokinetic parameters were calculated by DAS 2.0. The results showed that the phamacokinetic parameters of docetaxel all had notable changes when combined with imperatorin, isoimperatorin, and oxypeucedanin, respectively. The phamacokinetic parameters AUC and Cmax were significantly increased, indicating that coumarin constituents in Angelica dahurica could promote the oral bioavailability of docetaxel, and their effects were in the following order: oxypeucedaninisoimperatorinimperatorin.

Radix Angelicae Dahuricae is the dried root of Angelicae Dahurica (Fisch.ex Hoffm.)Benth.et Hook.f. var.formosana (Boiss.) Shan et Yuan (Fam.Umbelliferae). The total coumarins (Cou) and volatile oil (VO) were main active components that drived from Radix Angelicae Dahuricae. Our previous studies have shown that Cou and VO could increase intestinal absorption for transmucosal drug delivery with unknown mechanism. The aim of this study was to investigate the molecular mechanism of Radix Angelicae Dahuricae for improving drug intestinal transport. Caco-2 cell model was used to study the effect of Radix Angelicae Dahurica on transepithelial electrical resistance. Western blot was used to study its effect on the expression of the actin and ZO-1, tight junction proteins. The effect of Radix Angelicae Dahurica on the expression of P-gp protein was investigated using flow cytometry. VO (0.036–2.88 μL/mL) and Cou (0.027–0.54 mg/mL) caused a reversible, time- and dose-dependent decrease in transepithelial electrical resistance. VO and/or Cou could inhibit the expression of the tight junction protein, ZO-1 and actin. VO and/or Cou also could inhibit the expression of P-gp. These data suggested that Radix Angelicae Dahurica increased cell permeability by affecting the expression of actin, ZO-1 or P-gp, opening the tight junction or inhibiting the efflux induced by P-gp. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

The purpose of this study was to establish a relationship between the physical properties of powder and its behavior during high shear granulation. Andrographis extract was utilized as a model drug and microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) and soluble starch were selected as excipients. The extract was mixed with different excipient with the ratio 1:0.5, 1:1, 1:2 by weigh, respectively. The granules were prepared by using high shear granulation. The result of HSG was evaluated by monitoring such responses as granule yield, the ratio of Lumps and Fine. The effect of physical properties on granulation behavior was analyzed through stepwise regression. The results showed that angle of repose, moisture content, pore volume, and density were the main factors linked to the granulation. The main physical properties of extract powder were the important factors for high shear granulation, and statistical analysis identified the trends that interpreted in light of physical models of high shear granulation.

Prepared Tanshinone IIA lipid microspere and evaluated its physicochemical properties in vitro and pharmacodynamics properties in vivo. Particle size, zeta potential, entrapment efficiency, quantitative determination and stability of Tan-IIA-LM with different dilution medium were investigated respectively by Dynamic Light Scattering, HPLC and Sephadex G-50 Microcolumn, and osmotic pressure and solution pH of Tan-IIA-LM were measured to evaluate the preparation comprehensively. Further more, comparative study of protection on focal cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury in rats between Tan-IIA-LM and STS was studied.The results showed that average particle size was 203nm, zeta potential was-36.10 mV, content was 0.8mg·mL-1, entrapment efficiency was 93% and the Tan-IIA-LM which was diluted by 0.9% sodium chloride injection and 5.0% glucose injection were stable within 6 hours. Tan-IIA-LM had obvious protection on focal cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury in rats.

The root of Angelica dahurica (Radix Angelicae Dahuricae, RAD), which contains coumarins and volatile oil as its main classes of active components, is often given in conjunction with Pueraria root (Radix Puerariae, RP), which contains the phytoestrogen puerarin. The two herbs are considered to be compatible ‘herb-pairs’ in traditional Chinese medicine. The present investigation investigates the absorption of puerarin from RP and the effect of the total coumarins and volatile oil from RAD on its absorption. The everted gut sac and single-pass intestinal perfusion methods were used, respectively. The results showed that the absorption of puerarin in the jejunum was significantly increased in the presence of the coumarins and/or volatile oil. The absorption rate constant (Ka) of puerarin increased gradually until the concentration reached 160 µg · mL−1, after which its absorption became saturated and the apparent permeability (Papp) values significantly decreased. The results showed that the intestinal absorption mechanisms of puerarin involved active transportation processes and that puerarin is likely to be a substrate of P-gp because verapamil significantly affected its Papp and Ka. The absorption of puerarin significantly increased (p

Microcrystalline Cellulose and Sarcandrae extract powder were used to study the relationships of pharmaceutical properties of powders before and after mixing operation. The theoretical values of the physical quantities of the binary mixture were calculated based on the random mixing theory. The measured values of angle of repose, hygroscopicity of binary mixture were larger than that of theoretical calculations. The effective Kawakita a and b for the MCC had changed by mixing operation. The parameters of blend powder reduced compared with MCC except D-1. The results suggested that the mixing behavior was not a complete random or simple superposition operation for the rough and sticky particles. The mixing process would create novel particles and the physical quantities of novel particles would changes regularly.

Microcrystalline Cellulose andHerba Sarcandraewere used to study the properties and relationship of powders before and after blending. The theoretical values of the physical quantities of the binary mixture were calculated based on the random mixing theory, The measured values of particle size specific surface area, pore volume and angle of repose of binary mixture had larger values than that of theoretical calculations. Whereas, tapped density and bulk density had a smaller value. The results suggested that the mixing behavior was not a complete random, arbitrary or simple superposition of the operation for coarse and sticky particles. The mixing process would create novel particles and physical quantities of novel particles exist regular changes.

The aim of the present study was to increase bioavailability after oral administration. In this study, Panaxnotoginseng saponins (PNS) was entrapped within the long-circulating nanoparticles (LCNs) by the multiple emulsion method. The PNS-LCNs were characterized in terms of size, zeta potential, morphology, thermal properties, drug entrapment efficiency (EE), and in vitro release of the PNS. In addition, the intestinal absorption of PNS-LCNs in vitro was investigated. The pharmacokinetics of PNS-LCNs following oral administration was determined over 72 h in male rats. It was found that the mean particle size and zeta potential of the PNS-LCNs were 147±4.5nm and −44.7±1.5mV, respectively, and the entrapment efficiency (EE) was 53.93%±0.69%. differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) indicated that PNS has different states in PNS-LCNs and original PNS. The release pattern of the PNS-LCNs followed the Weibull model. The release parameters (T50, TD) were observed to be higher for PNS-LCNs compared with original PNS (p< 0.01) in vitro release. The intestinal absorption study indicated that the intestinal permeability coefficient (Papp) of PNS-LCNs was higher than original PNS’s. The pharmacokinetics of PNS-LCNs was studied after oral administration to male rats, PNS-LCNs provided greater area under the concentration-time curve (AUC), higher plasma concentration (Cmax), longer mean residence time (MRT) and median time to maximum drug concentration (Tmax). LCNs could be used for improving permeability and increased bioavailability after oral administration of PNS.

To study the correlation of four properties of traditional Chinese medicine and the function of reversing multidrug resistance (MDR) of tumor cells, with 580 herbs in Chinese Pharmacopoeia 2015 version as the research objects. CNKI, CBA, Wanfang, VIP, and PubMed were searched to screen the documents related to the reversal of MDR for collection, summarizing and analysis. The results of the research showed that a total of 114 species Chinese herbs had been reported to be associated with reversal of MDR in tumor cells. Among 15 Chinese herbs with heat nature, 7 herbs had the function of reversing MDR in tumor cells, accounting for 46.7%. Among the 48 herbs with cool nature, 12 herbs had the function of reversing MDR, accounting for 25%. Among the 211 herbs with cold nature, 46 herbs had the function of reversing MDR, accounting for 21.8%. Among the 179 herbs with warm nature, 34 herbs had the function of reversing MDR, accounting for 19%. Among the 127 herbs with neutral nature, 15 herbs had the function of reversing MDR, accounting for 11.8%. Through the analysis on the relationship between four properties of 114 kinds of traditional Chinese medicines and reversing multidrug resistance of tumor cells, this paper speculated that there was a certain correlation between four properties of traditional Chinese medicine and the function of reversing multidrug resistance of tumor cells.

Ethnopharmacological relevance Angelicae Dahurica ( Hoffm. ) Benth.& Hook.f.ex Franch.&Sav combined with Pueraria labota ( Willd. ) Ohwi has been widely used as herb-pairs in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for utilization of antipyretic analgesic and anti-inflammatory drugs, and modern pharmacological studies have shown that application compatibility of the two drugs has the effects of cardiovascular disease treatment. The previous study has proved that Radix Angelicae Dahuricae extract could enhance the intestinal absorption of puerarin in Pueraria. But the underlying compatibility mechanism of the two herbs remains unknown. In this study we tried to further evaluate the improvement of Radix Angelicae Dahuricae extract on the puerarin using the Caco-2 cell model and explore the transport properties of puerarin through the above research to discuss the possible effect mechanism of Radix Angelicae Dahuricae extract on the transport of puerarin and the underlying compatibility mechanism of the two herbs. Aim of study The aim of this work was to study the transport properties of puerarin in Radix Pueraria across Caco-2 cell membrane and to explore how the Radix Angelicae Dahuricae extract affected the transport of puerarin using the well-characterized, human-based intestinal Caco-2 cell model as a platform. Materials and methods The bidirectional transport, and the effects of time, drug concentration, pH, P-gp inhibitors (Verapamil, Cyclosporin A), MRP inhibitor (MK-571) and EDTA-Na 2 (tight junction modulator) on the absorption of puerarin were observed. Then the influence of extract of Radix Angelicae Dahuricae on the transport of puerarin was studied. Drug concentration was measured by HPLC and the apparent permeability coefficients ( Papp ) and apparent permeability ratio ( PDR ) were calculated. Results and conclusions The results showed that the transport ( Papp ) of puerarin in Caco-2 cell monolayer model had time and concentration dependence, and the transport showed saturation characteristics with the time and concentration of puerarin to a certain degree. The Papp of puerarin transported on Caco-2 cell monolayer model was significantly changed when the specified inhibitors of P-gp were added to the model and the PDR decreased from 1.74 to 0.43. The absorption of puerarin was improved when combined with Radix Angelicae Dahuricae . The intestinal absorption of puerarin is by passive diffusion as the dominating process and active transportation was mediated by P-gp and MRP transporter in Caco-2 cell monolayer model, and Radix Angelicae Dahuricae could enhance the intestinal absorption of puerarin.

Compare investigate physicochemical properties of fine powder and two ultrafine powders of Dragon’s Blood, and then to determinate particle size distribution for ultrafine powders of Dragon’s Blood. Specific surface area and porosity, surface morphology and moisture absorption of Dragon’s Blood powders were investigated. The content and the in vitro dissolution of dracorhodin in Dragon’s Blood powders were determined by HPLC. The results showed that the content of dracorhodin had no significant difference among three Dragon’s Blood powders. With the decreasing of particle size the degree of moisture decreased. The dissolution of dracorhodin in the order of: ultrafine powder I > ultrafine powder II > fine powder. An appropriate degree of superfine grinding can improve moisture absorption of Dragon’s Blood powders and dissolution of dracorhodin. Particle size distribution of Dragon’s Blood ultrafine powder should be controlled about 40 μm.

Solid dispersions (SD) were prepared with naringenin and mannitol by the solvent evaporation method with three drying methods (vacuum drying, VD; microwave-vacuum drying, MVD; and spray drying, SPD). The SD was characterized by Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), Powder X-ray Diffractometry (PXRD), Scanning Electronic Microscope (SEM), and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR).In vitrodissolution of naringenin and physical stability was investigated, and the energy consumption of different processing methods was measured. The results showed that the vitro dissolution rate and extent of naringenin was significantly improved by SD prepared with different drying methods compared to that of the pure drug and physical mixture (PM), and the dissolution rate of SD-SPD and SD-MVD was much higher than the SD-VD. The results of FT-IR showed that naringenin is possibly interacted with mannitol via intermolecular hydrogen bond; The PXRD showed that the crystallinity of the SD prepared with three drying methods was reduced sharply as compared with pure naringenin and PM. There results showed that the physical state of SD-MVD was more stable than SD-SPD and SD-VD that stored in the 40 °C/75% RH chamber in three month. Compared with other drying methods, the MVD method can save time and energy. These results suggest that MVD is feasible to replace the traditional time-consuming and low efficiency drying procedure for preparation of solid dispersions.

Combination chemotherapy is a common clinical practice in cancer treatment. Here, cyclic RGD (arginylglycylaspartic acid) peptide was introduced to the surface of lipid/calcium/phosphate (LCP) asymmetric lipid layer nanoparticles for the co-delivery of paclitaxel (PTX) and gemcitabine monophosphate (GMP) (P/G-NPs). The sphere-like morphology of P/G-NPs displays a well-distributed particle size, and high entrapment efficiency and drug loading for both PTX and GMP, with a positive zeta potential. P/G-NPs were stable for up to 15 days. The cellular uptake of these cyclic RGD-modified nanoparticles was significantly higher than that of unmodified nanoparticles over 2 h incubation. Compared with the combination of free PTX and GMP (P/G-Free), P/G-NPs exhibited a longer circulation lifetime and improved absorption for PTX and GMP. Polyethylene glycol was responsible for a higher plasma concentration and a decreased apparent volume of distribution (Vz). Nanoparticles enhanced the drug accumulation in tumors compared with other major organs after 24 h. P/G-NPs nearly halted tumor growth, with little evidence of general toxicity, whereas P/G-Free had only a modest inhibitory effect at 16 mg/kg of GMP and 2.0 mg/kg of PTX. Increased levels of apoptosis within tumors were detected in P/G-NPs group by approximately 43.6% (TUNEL assay). When compared with GMP NPs, PTX NPs, and P/G-Free, P/G-NPs decreased expression of B-cell lymphoma-2 and B-cell lymphoma-extra large proteins, and increased expression of cleaved poly-ADP-ribose polymerase-1. Calreticulin expression in tumors also increased upon the co-delivery of PTX and GMP. The antitumor effect of P/G-NPs is more powerful than P/G-Free, GMP NP, or PTX NP alone, without obvious toxicity.

A screening experiment with fractional factorial design and response surface methodology (RSM) with Box-Behnken design (BBD) was used to optimize the microwave-assisted extraction (MAE) of Yuanhu Zhitong (YZ) prescription. The optimum operating conditions were finally obtained by using a desirability function. A 2 6−2 fractional factorial design was initially employed and it was found that microwave power, extraction time, ethanol level and extraction times were the most important variables that affected the yield of tetrahydropalmatine, imperatorin and isoimperatorin, which are active components in YZ prescription. Results show that the optimal conditions were microwave power of 500 W, ethanol level of 70% and extraction time was 27 min. The extraction yield of tetrahydropalmatine, imperatorin and isoimperatorin was 85.4%, 104.0% and 113.6%, respectively, and the yield of extracta sicca was 10.4%.

To establish a method for the determination of chemical specific chromatograms and five components in Yinqiao powder decoction, and provide basis for elucidating the scientific connotation of ″taking in when the fragrance volatilized fiercely″. Yinqiao powder decoctions with different decocting times were prepared to study the changes of chemical components during decocting process. Specific chromatograms and contents of chlorogenic acid, phillyrin, arctiin, liquiritin and glycyrrhizin were determined by high performance liquid chromatography. According to the results, the similarities of Yinqiao powder decoctions with different decocting times were high, which indicated that their chemical compositions were similar. The dissolutions of the five components in Yinqiao powder reached more than 39.7% of 2 hour maximum dissolution amounts (MDA) after 20 minutes of soaking, more than 69.5% of MDA when boiling, more than 79.1% of MDA at the 5th minute after boiling, and more than 85.7% of MDA at the 10th minute after boiling. The concentrations of five components were not increasing obviously after 15 minutes of boiling (RSD

Cataracts have become the leading cause of blindness around the world, which is mainly mediated by oxidative stress.N-trimethyl chitosan (TMC)-coated liposomes of cyanidin-3-glycoside (C3G) (C3G-TCL) were prepared to attenuate oxidative stress induced by selenite sodium in rats.C3G-TCL were prepared by reverse-phase evaporation method and then coated with self-synthesized TMC. The physicochemical properties were determined. A gamma-scintigraphy study was employed to evaluate the precorneal elimination of the radioactive preparations. The transcorneal visualization for fluorescence-labeled samples was determined by confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). The in vivo anti-oxidative study using C3G-TCL was carried out in rats with selenite-induced cataracts by topical administration.The sphere-like morphological characterization of the vesicles was confirmed by TEM, with a size of 158.3 ± 2.8 nm and a zeta potential of 31.7 mV. The encapsulation efficiency was (53.7 ± 0.2) % as measured by ultrafiltration. C3G-TCL showed a 3.3-fold increment in precorneal residence time when compared with that of the (99m)Tc-solution. A TMC coating enhanced the transepithelial transport of liposomes to a depth of 40-μm in the cornea. Moreover, C3G-TCL could significantly elevate the activity of superoxide dismutase and catalase in lens and also show a considerable reversal of reduced glutathione activity. The lipid peroxidation in lens was strongly prevented when compared with that of groups treated with uncoated C3G-loaded liposomes.The coating material TMC for liposomes helps improve the anti-oxidative effect of C3G in vivo through prolonged residence time on the cornea and improved permeability in the corneal epithelium.