Abstract Context The underlying mechanisms of Jiedu Huoxue decoction (JDHXD) in treating chronic prostatitis have not been fully explored. Objective This study investigates the miRNAs as potential biomarkers and the effect of JDHXD on the rat model of experimental nonbacterial prostatitis. Materials and methods Fifty-four Sprague-Dawley male rats were randomly divided into normal control, model, JDHXD

Abstract Context Thoracic trauma results in multiple rib fractures (MRF), and surgical stabilisation of rib fractures (SSRF) can relieve fracture pain. Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) is reported to exhibit beneficial effects in bone-related metabolic and differentiation processes. Objective To study the clinical effect of EGCG on regional analgesia for pain relief in MRF patients after SSRF. Materials

Abstract Context Ursolic acid (UA), a natural product, shows a broad spectrum of anticancer effects. However, the poor bioavailability and efficacy of UA limit its clinical application. Objective We developed novel analogues of UA with enhanced antitumor activities by the extensive chemical modification of UA. Materials and methods We developed multiple compounds by structural modification of UA, and

Abstract Context Kalanchoe species (Crassulaceae) are widely used in traditional medicine as remedies in infectious diseases and cancer treatment. Objective Cytotoxic and antimicrobial activities of Kalanchoe daigremontiana Raym.-Hamet & H. Perrier, K. pinnata (Lam.) Pers., and K. blossfeldiana Poelln. extracts were determined. The relationship between biological activities and the extracts bufadienolides

Abstract Context L-DOPA is the first-line drug for Parkinson’s disease (PD). However, chronic use can lead to dyskinesia. Caffeine, which is a known neuroprotectant, can potentially act as an adjunct to minimise adverse effects of L-DOPA. Objectives This study determined changes in terms of neurodegeneration, locomotion and mechanosensation in Caenorhabditis elegans (Rhabditidae) strain UA57 overexpressing

Abstract Context Research interest in monoamine oxidase (MAO) as a promising drug target for neurodegenerative diseases has a long history. However, efforts to develop MAO inhibitors (MAOIs) from marine sources have been limited, despite the increasing number of interesting marine natural products. Objective To review the potential of marine natural products as MAOIs source, including their activities

Abstract Context Recent studies have shown compound Danshen dripping pills (CDDP) could improve microcirculation in ischemic/reperfusion injury and other microvascular disorders. The mechanism for CDDP’s role in microcirculation is not clear. Objective To explore the protective effects of CDDP on microvascular dysfunction. Materials and methods C57BL/6 male mice (6–8 weeks) were randomized into control

Abstract Context Lysionotin, a major extraction of Lysionotus pauciflorus Maxim (Gesneriaceae), has a variety of pharmacological properties commonly used in the treatment of lung disease. A study of lysionotin on the activity of human liver cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes can provide guidance on the clinical application of lysionotin. Objective This study investigated the interaction between lysionotin

Abstract Context Palmatine, a biologically active isoquinoline alkaloid, possesses multiple pharmaceutical activities against mucosal infection and inflammation. Objective There are no reports about the influence of palmatine on uterine mucosal epithelial cells. Materials and methods We used proteomics to analyse differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) in goat endometrial epithelial cells (EECs) stimulated

Abstract Context Rubus species (Rosaceae) have been used in folk medicine to treat diabetes due to their hypoglycaemic activity. Objective To screen the active components that act as hypoglycaemic agents in Rubus amabilis Focke and the underlying mechanisms. Materials and methods Aqueous stem extract of R. amabilis was incubated with MIN6 β-cells, PBS was used as the blank control. Then the cells were

Abstract Context Hydroxysafflor yellow A (HSYA) has been shown to have neuroprotective effects in cerebral infarction. However, its underlying roles in apoptosis and inflammation in Parkinson’s disease (PD) are unknown. Objective The present study investigates the effects and underlying mechanisms of HSYA on dopaminergic (DA) neurodegeneration, inflammation, and apoptosis. Materials and methods The

Abstract Context Baicalin is an active compound which demonstrates cardioprotection effects against myocardial ischaemia/reperfusion injury (MI/RI). Objective To investigate how baicalin protects against myocardial injury and to explore its potential mechanism. We hypothesized that baicalin-modulated macrophages change from M1 (pro-inflammatory subset) to M2 (anti-inflammatory subset) under I/R stress

Abstract Context Dendrobium officinale Kimura et Migo (Orchidaceae) is a naturally occurring precious traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) originally used in treating yin-deficiency diseases. The main active substances of Dendrobium officinale are polysaccharides (DOP). Recent findings highlighted the potential of DOP as a promising natural material for medical use with a diversity of pharmaceutical

Abstract Context Fructus Meliae toosendan extracts (FMTE) have a good therapeutic effect on coccidiosis, but there is no relevant research on its prophylactic effect on coccidiosis. Objective This study comprehensively evaluates the anticoccidial effect of FMTE. Materials and methods In vitro, the unsporulated oocysts were treated with serial dilutions of FMTE and incubated for 7 d, and the sporulated

Abstract Context Diclofenac (DIC) is an NSAID and consumption of this drug creates side effects such as liver injury. Gallic acid (GA), a natural component of many plants, is used as an antioxidant agent. Objective This study assesses the hepatoprotective effects of GA in the rat model of DIC-induced liver toxicity. Materials and methods In this research, the male Wistar rats were separated into five

Abstract Context: In the antihypertensive study of phenylacetamide (PA) on spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR), it was occasionally found that PA prevents myocardial injury. Objective: Clarify the protective mechanism of PA on myocardial injury in SHR rats. Materials and methods: In vivo, SHR rats were treated with or without PA (15, 30, 45 mg/kg) for 3 weeks (12 per group). In vitro, H9c2 cells

Abstract Context: Curcumin has antitumor, antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, and anti-proliferative properties. Objective: To investigate the role of miR-22 during curcumin-induced changes in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC) and neointima formation in balloon-injured rat abdominal aorta. Materials and methods: Sprague-Dawley rats were randomised to the sham-operated (n = 10), operated control (injured

Abstract Context Salvia semiatrata Zucc. (Lamiaceae) is a species used as a tranquilizer and to relieve pain in folk medicine in Santiago Huauclilla, Oaxaca, Mexico. Objective To evaluate the antinociceptive and anxiolytic-like effects of S. semiatrata extracts and identify a bioactive metabolite. Materials and methods The extracts were obtained by maceration of S. semiatrata aerial parts using solvents

Abstract Context Rivaroxaban and ticagrelor are two common drugs for the treatment of atrial fibrillation and acute coronary syndrome. However, the drug–drug interaction between them is still unknown. Objective To investigate the effects of ticagrelor on the pharmacokinetics of rivaroxaban in rats both in vivo and in vitro. Materials and methods A sensitive and reliable UPLC-MS/MS method was developed

Abstract Context: The Chinese medicinal materials originate from animals, plants, or minerals must undergo appropriate treatment before use as decoction pieces. Processing of Chinese medicines with liquid excipients is a pharmaceutical technique that transforms medicinal raw materials into decoction pieces which are significantly different from the original form. During processing, significant changes

Abstract Context: In Persian medicine, topical ingredients such as Rosa damascena Mill. (Rosaceae), are usually recommended for the treatment of uterine diseases. Scientific evaluation of these historical documents can be valuable for finding new potential use in conventional medicine. Objective: This clinical trial was performed to determine whether the use of the ‘ward’ vaginal tablet, which contains

Abstract Context: Shuxuening injection (SXNI), derived from the leaf of Ginkgo biloba L. (Ginkgoaceae), is widely used to treat cardio-cerebral vascular system related disease due to the efficacy of dilating the blood vessels and improving the function of microcirculation. Nevertheless, SXNI induces immediate hypersensitivity reactions in clinics and the molecular mechanisms are unknown. Objective:

Abstract Context: Astragali Radix (AR) and Angelica sinensis Radix (ASR) combinations are used to treat cardiovascular disorders. Objectives: This study investigates the protective effects of different compatibility proportions of AR and ASR on cardiac dysfunction in a C57BL/6 mouse model of myocardial infarction (MI). Materials and methods: MI mice were induced by ligation of the left coronary artery

Abstract Context: Apigenin displays antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. However, effects of apigenin magnesium (AM) complex on these aspects remain unknown. Objective: This study investigated the effects of AM complex on oxidative stress and inflammatory responses in hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)-induced rat hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). Materials and methods: The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory

Abstract Context: Danggui Buxue Tang (DBT), one of the popular Danggui (DG) decoctions, has traditionally been used to nourish ‘qi’ (vital energy) and enrich ‘blood’ (body circulation). DBT may possess performance-enhancing effects. Objective: This work determines whether DBT can improve physical capacity and alter energy expenditure under exercise training. Materials and methods: Forty male Wistar

Abstract Context: Socheongryongtang is a traditional Korean medical prescription used to treat pulmonary diseases. Objective: This study investigated the therapeutic mechanism of socheongryongtang for pulmonary diseases. Materials and methods: Seventy BALB/c mice were used: control, 0.8 mg/kg/study LPS intranasal instillation, 1 mg/kg/day Spiriva oral administration for five days, two socheongryongtang

Abstract Context: Chloranthus serratus [(Thunb.) Roem. et Schult, (Chloranthaceae)] is a folk medicine used for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate anti-arthritic effects of the ethanol extracts of the roots (ER), stems (ES) and leaves (EL) of C. serratus on adjuvant arthritis rats and related mechanisms. Materials and methods: The rats were immunized

Abstract Context: Oridonin (ORI) has obvious anticancer effects, but its solubility is poor. Nanocrystal (NC) is a novel nano-drug delivery system for increasing bioavailability for ORI. However, the endocytosis and transcytosis behaviours of oridonin nanocrystals (ORI-NCs) through epithelial membrane are still unclear. Objectives: ORI-NCs were prepared and characterized. The in vitro cytotoxicity

Context: Mitrephora sirikitiae Weeras., Chalermglin & R.M.K. Saunders (Annonaceae) is a plant endemic to Thailand. Its constituents and their biological activities are unknown.Objective: Isolation and identification of the compounds in the leaves and stems of M. sirikitiae and determination of their cytotoxicity.Materials and methods: Methanol extracts of the leaves and stems of M. sirikitiae were

Abstract Context: Pulsatilla chinensis (Bunge) Regel (Ranunculaceae) possess antitumour effects; however, its antitumour potential has not been extensively investigated. Objective: To investigate the synergetic effect of multi-components from P. chinensis induced cell apoptosis and explore the mechanism. Materials and methods: The cytotoxicity was measured against NCI-H460, SMMC-7721, HCT-116 and U251

Abstract Context: Environmental hypobaric hypoxia induces several physiological or pathological responses in individuals in high-altitude regions. Salvia przewalskii Maxim (Labiatae) (SPM) is a traditional Chinese herbal medicine and has known antibacterial, antiviral, antioxidant, anti-thrombotic, and anti-depressant activities. Objective: This study examined the antihypoxia effects of SPM in vivo

Abstract Context: Dicranopteris linearis L. (Gleicheniaceae) leaves have been reported to exert hepatoprotective activity. Objective: The hepatoprotective and antioxidant effects of ethyl acetate partition of D. linearis (EADL) are investigated. Materials and methods: EADL was subjected to antioxidant and anti-inflammatory studies, and phytochemical analyses. In vivo study involved six groups (n = 6)

Abstract Context: Mitrephora sirikitiae Weeras., Chalermglin & R.M.K. Saunders (Annonaceae) is a plant endemic to Thailand. Its constituents and their biological activities are unknown. Objective: Isolation and identification of the compounds in the leaves and stems of M. sirikitiae and determination of their cytotoxicity. Materials and methods: Methanol extracts of the leaves and stems of M. sirikitiae

Abstract Context: In folk medicine, erxian decoction (EXD) is used to treat perimenopausal syndrome in women. It is also used clinically to treat depression, but the mechanism remains unknown. Objectives: To investigate the neuroprotective effect of EXD, and its antidepressant potential. Materials and methods: ICR mice were treated with EXD (0.5, 1.5 and 4.5 g/kg i.g.) and fluoxetine (6.0 mg/kg i.g

Abstract Context: Persimmon tannin (extract of Diospyros kaki L.f [Ebenaceae]) and Aloe gel (extract of Aloe vera (L.) Burm.f. [Asphodelaceae]) are known as anti-radiation agents. However, radiation resistance of the persimmon tannin-Aloe gel composite remains inconclusive. Objective: To investigate the capacity of the persimmon tannin-Aloe gel composite to protect against ionising radiation at the

Context: Hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α)-induced genes can improve blood circulation.Objective: To investigate brain protective effect of recombinant adenovirus-mediated HIF-1α (AdHIF-1α) expression and its mechanism.Materials and methods: Male SD rats were used to establish focal cerebral ischaemia-reperfusion (CIR) injury models and randomly divided into normal, sham, CIR, Ad and AdHIF-1α groups

Context: There are numerous pharmacological activities for Ruta graveolens and its bioactive constituent, rutin, on learning and memory.Objective: This study aimed to examine the effect of R. graveolens and rutin on memory in rats.Materials and methods: In this study animals were treated with the hydroalcholic extract of R. graveolens and rutin by IP injection for 10 days. Behavioural and biochemical

Context: ShengMaBieJia decoction (SMBJD) is used to treat solid and hematological tumours; however, its anti-angiogenesis activity remains unclear.Objective: This study verified the anti-angiogenic effects of SMBJD in vitro and in tumour-bearing acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) mouse models.Materials and methods: In vivo, the chicken chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) and BALB/c null mouse xenograft models

Context: Hyperlipidaemia and hypertension are often treated together with curcumin and amlodipine. It is necessary to investigate the drug-drug interaction between curcumin and amlodipine.Objective: The interaction between curcumin and amlodipine was investigated in rats and with rat liver microsomes.Methods: The pharmacokinetics of amlodipine (1 mg/kg) was investigated in rats with or without curcumin

Abstract Context: Hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α)-induced genes can improve blood circulation. Objective: To investigate brain protective effect of recombinant adenovirus-mediated HIF-1α (AdHIF-1α) expression and its mechanism. Materials and methods: Male SD rats were used to establish focal cerebral ischaemia-reperfusion (CIR) injury models and randomly divided into normal, sham, CIR, Ad and

Context: Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a chronic neurodegenerative disease that originates from central nervous system lesions or recessions. Current estimates suggest that this disease affects over 35 million people worldwide. However, lacking effective drugs is the biggest handicap in treating AD. In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), Polygala tenuifolia Willd. (Polygalaceae) is generally used to

Context: Therapeutic doxorubicin administration is restricted as this anticancer drug may be cardiotoxic. The traditional Chinese medicine qiliqiangxin has been approved for clinical treatment of chronic heart failure.Objective: To explore the protective effects and molecular mechanisms of qiliqiangxin on doxorubicin-induced congestive heart failure (CHF) in rats.Materials and methods: A CHF rat model

Context: Although Salvia plebeia (SP) R. Brown (Labiatae) is known to possess various biological activities, the effects of SP on hair growth have not been elucidated.Objective: To investigate the hair growth potential of SP extract by using human dermal papilla cells (hDPCs) and C57BL/6 mice.Materials and methods: The entire SP plant sample was ground into powder and extracted with 99.9% methyl alcohol

Context: A variety of Acmella oleracea (L.) R.K. Jansen (Asteraceae) is used by the Mizo people of India and Myanmar for intestinal helminthiasis.Objective: To perform a chemical analysis of the plant extract using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and test the anthelmintic activity on intestinal parasites.Materials and methods: An extract of the aerial parts was prepared in hexane and analysed

Context: Berberine is an alkaloid that possesses various pharmacologic effects.Objective: To explore the mechanism of berberine to improve insulin sensitivity in fructose-fed mice.Materials and methods: Sixty male ICR mice were randomly divided into 6 groups (10 mice in each group): control, fructose, pioglitazone (10 mg/kg) and berberine (50, 100, and 200 mg/kg). Except for the control group, the

Context: Panax ginseng C. A. Meyer (Araliaceae) root and leaf have always been considered in the traditional theory as hot and cold properties, respectively.Objective: To clarify the hot and cold properties of ginseng root and leaf from a thermodynamic viewpoint.Materials and methods: Thirty ICR male mice were randomly assigned to control (water), ginseng root group (GRP) and ginseng leaf group (GLP)

Context: Puerarin and astragaloside IV (AS-IV) are sometimes used together for the treatment of disease in Chinese clinics, however, the drug-drug interaction between puerarin and AS-IV is still unknown.Objective: This study investigates the effects of puerarin on the pharmacokinetics of astragaloside IV in rats and clarifies its main mechanism.Materials and methods: The pharmacokinetic profiles of

Context: Natural killer (NK) cells can eliminate malignant cells and play a vital role in immunosurveillance. Administration of natural compounds represents a promising approach for antitumor immunotherapy, which may enhance the NK cell activity via multiple mechanisms.Objective: Establishing approaches to evaluate the effect of select natural products on NK cell-mediated cytotoxicity.Materials and

Context: As a toxic traditional Chinese medicine for edoema, Euphorbia kansui S.L. Liou ex S.B. Ho (Euphorbiaceae) (EK) stir-fried with vinegar for detoxification was associated with alterations of gut microbiota. However, the evidence of correlation between short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and toxicity of EK has not been confirmed.Objective: In order to study the biological basis of detoxification

Abstract Context: Natural killer (NK) cells can eliminate malignant cells and play a vital role in immunosurveillance. Administration of natural compounds represents a promising approach for antitumor immunotherapy, which may enhance the NK cell activity via multiple mechanisms. Objective: Establishing approaches to evaluate the effect of select natural products on NK cell-mediated cytotoxicity. Materials

Abstract Context: Puerarin and astragaloside IV (AS-IV) are sometimes used together for the treatment of disease in Chinese clinics, however, the drug–drug interaction between puerarin and AS-IV is still unknown. Objective: This study investigates the effects of puerarin on the pharmacokinetics of astragaloside IV in rats and clarifies its main mechanism. Materials and methods: The pharmacokinetic

Abstract Context: As a toxic traditional Chinese medicine for edoema, Euphorbia kansui S.L. Liou ex S.B. Ho (Euphorbiaceae) (EK) stir-fried with vinegar for detoxification was associated with alterations of gut microbiota. However, the evidence of correlation between short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and toxicity of EK has not been confirmed. Objective: In order to study the biological basis of detoxification

Context: Both nobiletin (NBL) and glycyrrhizin (GL) have anti-inflammatory and antitumor properties. These agents may be co-administered in the clinic. However, the drug-drug interaction between them is not clear.Objective: The drug-drug interaction between GL and NBL was investigated, to clarify the effect of GL on the pharmacokinetics of NBL, and its main mechanism.Materials and methods: The pharmacokinetic

Context: A growing body of evidence demonstrates that gastrointestinal motility disorder (GIMD) and gastric stress ulcers can be induced by restraint stress, while melatonin (MT) elicits anti-inflammation and antioxidant effects.Objective: The present study investigated the mechanisms of MT-mediated protection effects on restraint stress-induced GIMD.Materials and methods: 144 8-week-old male ICR mice

Context: Emodin is a compound in Rheum undulatum Linne (Polygonaceae) that has been reported to exert anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antiallergic effects.Objective: Oxidative stress is a causative agent of liver inflammation that may lead to fibrosis and hepato-carcinoma. In this study, we investigated the antioxidant effects of emodin and its mechanism.Materials and methods: We used the hepatocyte

Context: Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is defined as myocardial necrosis. Clinicians use the traditional Chinese patent medicine Yangxinkang Tablet (YXK) to treat chronic heart failure.Objective: To explore the effects of YXK on heart injury following AMI and the underlying mechanisms.Materials and methods: The AMI model was produced in Wistar rats by permanent ligation of the left anterior descending

Context: Matrine is a well-known anti-inflammatory quinolizidine alkaloid derived from leguminous plant Sophora flavescens Ait. (Leguminosae).Objective: This study was designed to uncover the potential application of matrine in treating spinal cord injury (SCI).Materials and methods: Neuron-like PC12 cells in experimental groups were pre-treated with/without matrine (200 μM) for 24 h and then stimulated

Context: Ganoderic acid A (GAA) is usually used to prevent cancers or other diseases, which make it likely to be used with other drugs metabolized by cytochromes P450.Objective: This study investigates the effect of GAA on eight major cytochrome P450 isoforms in human liver microsomes.Material and method: The effects of GAA (100 μM) on eight human liver CYP isoforms (i.e., 1A2, 3A4, 2A6, 2E1, 2D6,

(2020). Correction. Pharmaceutical Biology: Vol. 58, No. 1, pp. 306-307.

Context: Sanguisorba officinalis L. (Rosaceae), a famous traditional Chinese medicine. It was recently reported that its polysaccharide could facilitate collagen production.Objectives: We investigated the mechanism by which S. officinalis polysaccharide (SOWPa) and/or platelet-rich plasma (PRP) promote regenerative potential of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in vitro.Materials and methods: ACL fibroblasts