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    Abstract:
    Cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases (CCVDs), which are circulatory system diseases caused by heart defects and vascular diseases, are the major noncommunicable diseases affecting global public health. With the improvement of economic level and the change of human lifestyle, the prevalence of CCVDs continues to increase. Ginseng (Panax ginseng C. A. Mey.) was widely used in traditional diseases due to its supposed tonic properties. Ginsenoside Rb1 (G-Rb1) is the most abundant active ingredient with multiple pharmacological effects extracted from ginseng, which has been shown to have potential benefits on the cardiovascular system through a variety of mechanisms, including anti-oxidation, antiinflammatory, regulation of vasodilation, reduction of platelet adhesion, influence of calcium ion channels, improvement of lipid distribution, involving in glucose metabolism and controlling blood sugar. This review reviewed the protective effects of G-Rb1 on CCVDs and its potential mechanisms, such as atherosclerosis (AS), hypertension, coronary heart disease (CHD), ischemic stroke (IS) and periocular microvascular retinopathy. Finally, we reviewed and reported the results of in vivo and in vitro experiments using G-Rb1 to improve CCVDs, highlighted its efficacy, safety, and limitations.
    Abstract:
    Panax L. (Araliaceae) has a long history of medicinal and edible use due to its significant tonifying effects, and ginseng research has been a hot topic in natural products research and food science. In continuation of our recent ginseng review, we highlighted the advances in ginseng research from 2021 to 2023 with 157 citations, which exhibited the increasingly systematic, collaborative, and intelligent characteristics. In this review, we firstly updated the progress in phytochemistry involving the ginsenosides and polysaccharides and summarized the researches on the active components. Then, some specific applications by feat of the multidimensional chromatography, mass spectrometry imaging, DNA barcoding, and metabolomics, were analyzed, which could provide rich information supporting the multi-component characterization, authentication, and quality control of ginseng and the versatile products. Finally, the recent biosynthesis studies concerning ginsenosides were retrospected. Additionally, the current challenges and future trends with respect to ginseng research were discussed.
    Abstract:
    The steamed Panax ginseng C. A. Mey., Panax notoginseng (Burk.) F. H. Chen, and Panax quinquefolium L. not only facilitate storage, but also increase the content of rare saponins and enhance their clinical application value. The traditional steaming process has high energy consumption, low efficiency, and lacks standardized operating procedures and unified standards. This paper retrieves the research literature on the steaming process parameters, rare saponin increments, and efficacy enhancement results of ginseng plants. By summarizing the effects of different steaming processes on rare saponins and pharmacodynamics in P. ginseng, P. notoginseng and P. quinquefolium, we explored new steaming methods and established a new quality evaluation system to provide guarantee for the effectiveness and safety of clinical medication and provide scientific basis for its rational use.
    Abstract:
    Saponins, the major bioactive components of Panax ginseng C. A. Mey., are gradually emerging as research hotspots owing to the possession of various pharmacological activities. This review updates the ginsenosides list from P. ginseng and the steam-processed ginseng (red ginseng and black ginseng) up to 271 by June of 2024, encompassing 243 saponins from different parts of P. ginseng (roots, stems, leaves, flowers, berries, and seeds), 103 from red ginseng, and 65 from black ginseng, respectively. Among 271 saponins, there are a total of 249 (1–249) dammarane type (with a–z subtypes) tetracyclic triterpene saponins reported from each part of P. ginseng and steam-processed ginseng, two (250–251) lanostane type tetracyclic triterpene saponins identified from red ginseng, 18 (252–269) oleanane type pentacyclic triterpenoid saponins discovered from each part of P. ginseng and steam-processed ginseng, and two (270–271) ursane type pentacyclic triterpenoid saponins reported from red ginseng. Overall, this review expounds on the chemical diversity of ginsenosides in various aspects, such as chemical structure, spatial distribution and subtype comparison, processed products, and transformation. This facilitates more indepth research on ginsenosides and contributes to the future development of ginseng.
    Abstract:
    Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most prevalent malignancies globally, posing a major challenge to global health care. Protopanaxadiol ginsenosides (PDs) have been believed to significantly improve liver diseases. PDs, such as Rg3, have been developed as a new class of anti-cancer drugs. Ginsenosides Rb1, Rd, Rg3, and Rh2 exhibit effective anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor activities. Studies have confirmed that PDs could be used to treat HCC. However, the mechanism of action of PDs on HCC remains unclear. In the study, we reviewed the anti-HCC effects and mechanisms of PDs including Rb1, Rd, Rg3, Rg5, Rh2, Rk1, and Compound K (CK). Then, we searched for relevant targets of PDs and HCC from databases and enriched them for analysis. Subsequently, molecular docking was simulated to reveal molecular mechanisms. We found that PDs may treat HCC through multiple signaling pathways and related targets. PDs could inhibit the proliferation, invasion, and metastasis of HCC while promoting apoptosis and inducing differentiation. In conclusion, this review and network pharmacological analysis might offer a direction for in-depth research on related mechanisms. These insights will aid in the direction of further pharmacological studies and the development of safe and effective clinical drugs.
    Abstract:
    Traditional Chinese Medicine Network Pharmacology (TCM-NP) is an interdisciplinary discipline that integrates information science, systems biology, network science and pharmacology, providing a systematic research methodology for TCM studies. With the development of artificial intelligence (AI) and multi-omics technologies, TCM-NP has entered a new era and can incorporate multimodal and high-dimensional data in the context of big data to enhance both theoretical foundations and technical capabilities. Despite its advancement, TCM-NP still faces challenges, particularly in ensuring the quality of data and research, as well as achieving more profound scientific discoveries. The field needs further innovation to obtain more precise and biomedically meaningful results. Overall research progress in TCM-NP depends on developing more accurate algorithms together with utilizing higher-quality and larger-scale data. This paper gives a perspective on the trends and characteristics of TCM-NP development and application in the era of AI.
    Abstract:
    Constipation is a common and prevalent digestive system disease in clinical practice, which seriously affects human physical and mental health. Currently, chemical drugs have good short-term therapeutic effects. However, because of their adverse reactions, easy recurrence after drug discontinuation, and dependence with long-term use, the long-term efficacy is unsatisfactory. The pathogenesis of constipation is mainly attributed to dysfunction of zang-fu organs and imbalance of qi-blood and yin-yang, with the syndrome being asthenia in origin and asthenia in superficiality. Aloe is a traditional Chinese medicine with cold properties and a bitter taste, and one of the most commonly used herbs for constipation. Based on Aloe and its monomer components, combined with the existing compatibility studies of Aloe and several Chinese patent drugs represented by Aloe, this paper comprehensively and systematically introduced the research progress of Aloe and its compatibility prescriptions in the treatment of constipation from basic experiments to clinical observations, providing theoretical basis and medication guidance for the clinical rational application of Aloe and its prescriptions in the treatment of constipation. At the same time, it also provides the direction for future research on the mechanism of Aloe in the treatment of constipation.
    Abstract:
    Network pharmacology is an interdisciplinary field that utilizes computer science, technology, and biological networks to investigate the intricate interplay among compounds/ingredients, targets, and diseases. Within the realm of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), network pharmacology serves as a scientific approach to elucidate the compatibility relationships and underlying mechanisms of action in TCM formulas. It facilitates the identification of potential active ingredients within these formulas, providing a comprehensive understanding of their holistic and systematic nature, which aligns with the holistic principles inherent in TCM theory. TCM formulas exhibit complexity due to their multicomponent characteristic, involving diverse targets and pathways. Consequently, investigating their material basis and mechanisms becomes challenging. Network pharmacology has emerged as a valuable approach in TCM formula research, leveraging its holistic and systematic advantages. The manuscript aims to provide an overview of the application of network pharmacology in studying TCM formula compatibility rules and explore future research directions. Specifically, we focus on how network pharmacology aids in interpreting TCM pharmacological theories and understanding formula compositions. Additionally, we elucidate the process of utilizing network pharmacology to identify active ingredients within TCM formulas. These findings not only offer novel research models and perspectives for integrating network pharmacology with TCM theory but also present new methodologies for investigating TCM formula compatibility. All in all, network pharmacology has become an indispensable and crucial tool in advancing TCM formula research.
    Abstract:
    Objective: The study of phytometabolites of medicinal plants and their phylogenetic distribution is an important content of pharmacophylogeny. The objectives of this study were to provide an updated estimate of the extent to which the medicinal plants were investigated phytochemically and relate this to the species-level phylogeny and their geographical pattern. Methods: Here, we further characterized 1 648 phytometabolites, including terpenoids, steroids, flavonoids, phenylpropanoids, phenolics, alkaloids, etc., reported in journals Chinese Traditional and Herbal Drugs (Zhong Cao Yao) and Chinese Herbal Medicines (CHM) from the phylogenetic and spatial perspectives. According to the structural characteristics, terpenoids, flavonoids, alkaloids and phenylpropanoids were subdivided into subclasses, and the research effort of phytometabolites was for the first time delineated at both subclass and phylogenetic levels. Results: The phytometabolites of 90 families were reported on two journals in three years. It is noted that terpenoids with diverse bioactivities still constitute the primary object of phytochemical research, followed by flavonoids, phenolics, phenylpropanoids and alkaloids. Among the reported species, the family Asteraceae had the most, followed by Lamiaceae, Fabaceae, and Ranunculaceae. In the phylogenetic distribution of the reported phytometabolites, the net relatedness index (NRI) results revealed a clustered structure for triterpene, iridoid, flavone, flavonol, coumarin, indole alkaloid and terpenoid alkaloid, while the nearest taxon index (NTI) metric identified the clustered structure for triterpene, sesquiterpene, indole alkaloid and terpenoid alkaloid. Especially in Ranunculaceae, there were more reports on triterpene and terpenoid alkaloid subclasses. The overdispersion pattern of diterpene and phenolic was suggested by NRI and NTI respectively, albeit more reported diterpenes and phenolics were in Lamiaceae. The geographical distribution hotspots of reported species and compounds thereof highlighted the enormous progress of herbal medicine research and industry, which play a positive role in the future drug discovery and development. Conclusion: These results provide new dimensions and perspectives in the context of pharmacophylogeny for perceiving and evaluating research trends and flashpoints in medicinal phytochemistry.
    Abstract:
    Objective: To investigate the mechanisms that underlie the anti-asthmatic effects of Nepeta bracteata (DBJJ, Dabao Jingjie in Chinese) in rats by integrating metabolomics and network pharmacology. Methods: In this study, the rat model of asthma was induced by ovalbumin (OVA), and the rats were treated with a decoction of N. bracteata. Pathological changes in lung tissue were observed, and the quantification of eosinophils (EOS) and white blood cells (WBC) in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid was performed. Furthermore, the serum levels of asthma-related factors induced by OVA were assessed. 1H NMR spectroscopy serum metabolomics method was utilized to identify differential metabolites and their associated metabolic pathways. UPLC-QE-MS/MS combined with network pharmacology was employed to predict the core targets and pathways of DBJJ in its action against asthma. The anti-asthmatic properties of DBJJ were investigated using an integrated approach of metabolomics and network pharmacology. The findings were validated through molecular docking and Western blotting analysis of the key targets. Results: The administration of DBJJ effectively alleviated OVA-induced lung histopathological changes and decreased the number of EOS and WBC in BALF. Additionally, DBJJ inhibited the OVA-induced elevation of TNF-a, IL-18, Ig-E, EOS, IL-1b, MDA, VEGF-A, and TGF-b1. A total of 21 biomarkers and 10 pathways were found by metabolomics analysis. A total of 29 compounds were identified by UPLC-QE-MS/MS, in which 13 active components were screened by oral availability and Caco-2 cell permeability, the 120 targets and 173 KEGG pathways were predicted. The integration of metabolomics and network pharmacological analysis revealed that DBJJ’s main constituents, including ferulic acid and ursolic acid, exerted their effects on four targets, namely DAO and NOS2, as well as their associated metabolites and pathways. The active constituents of DBJJ demonstrated a high binding affinity towards DAO and NOS2. Furthermore, DBJJ was observed to decrease the protein expression and phosphorylation levels of NOS2, MAPK, and STAT3. Conclusion: The administration of DBJJ demonstrates notable anti-asthma properties in rats with allergic asthma. This effect can be attributed to the modulation of various targets, including NOS2, MAPK, and STAT3, by primary constituents such as ferulic acid and ursolic acid.
    Abstract:
    Objective: To decipher the antidepression effect of Chaigui Granules (CGKL) from the relationship between depression and microbial molecules based on multi-omics. Methods: Male SD rats were subjected to chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) for seven weeks. The antidepressants CGKL extract and CGKL were administered for the following four weeks. The behavior test and the content of monoamine neurotransmitters were used to evaluate the efficacy of CGKL. The 16S rRNA sequencing, LC-MS technology and molecular biological techniques were used to explore the pharmacological mechanism of CGKL. Results: CGKL treatment obviously alleviated the depressive behavioral indicators and regulated the content of monoamine neurotransmitters, and presented dose-dependent manner. CGKL could also improve the arginine metabolism disorder of gut microbiota in the jejunum. Meanwhile, the contents of arginine and its metabolites in the serum and hippocampus were regulated to normal levels. Further investigation indicated that the expression of related rate-limiting enzyme genes and proteins in the hippocampus was validated by qRT-PCR and Western blotting. The results showed that the gut microbiota, metabolites, and genes or proteins of rate-limiting enzymes involved in the arginine pathway were significantly regulated by CGKL. Conclusion: The present study demonstrates that CGKL might exert antidepressant effects through regulating arginine metabolism, and its mechanism may be related to modulating the gut microbiota and related metabolic enzyme.
    Abstract:
    Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of Compound Danshen Dripping Pills (CDDP) combined with isosorbide mononitrate (ISMN) versus ISMN alone for treating angina pectoris in patients. Methods: The PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Embase China National Knowledge Infrastructure, China Biomedical Literature Service System, Chinese Medical Journal Database, and Wan Fang MED databases were searched from inception to November 2022. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and cohort studies were included. The primary outcomes were angina symptom and electrocardiography (ECG) efficacy, angina symptom efficacy, and ECG efficacy. The protocol was registered with PROSPERO No. CRD42022314774. Results: Our study included 7 245 patients with angina (59 RCTs, 11 cohort studies). When ISMN was combined with CDDP, the efficacy of angina symptom and ECG [odds ratio (OR) = 4.824, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 3.636–6.401, P = 0.000], the efficacy of angina symptom (OR = 4.347, 95% CI = 3.635–5.198, P = 0.000), the efficacy of ECG (OR = 3.364, 95% CI = 2.767–4.089, P = 0.000) were better than that of patients treated with ISMN alone. CDDP combined with ISMN was superior to ISMN alone in reducing triglyceride (TG) [mean difference (MD) =–35.176, 95% CI = –37.439 to–32.912, P = 0.000], total cholesterol (TC) (MD = –24.296, 95% CI =–26.429 to –22.163, P = 0.000), the duration of angina attack (MD =–1.991, 95% CI =–2.349 to–1.633, P = 0.000), and the frequency of angina attack [standardized MD (SMD) = –2.840, 95% CI =–3.416 to–2.265, P = 0.000]. There was no increase in adverse events between CDDP combined with ISMN and ISMN alone (OR = 0.513, 95% CI = 0.421–0.626, P = 0.000). Conclusion: CDDP combined with ISMN improved treatment efficacy and was well tolerated. Therefore, this combination could be used as an alternative treatment. However, clinical and patient conditions should be considered.
    Abstract:
    Objective: Qingfei Tongluo Plaster (QFP), an improved Chinese medicine hospital preparation, is an attractive treatment option due to its well clinical efficacy, convenience, economy, and patient compliance in the treatment of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) pneumonia. The aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy mechanism of QFP on RSV rats from the perspective of alleviating lung inflammation and further explore the changes of serum metabolites and metabolic pathways in RSV rats under the influence of QFP. Methods: This study used network pharmacological methods and molecular docking combined with molecular biology and metabolomics from multi-dimensional perspectives to screen and verify the therapeutic targets. Open online databases were used to speculate the gene targets of efficient ingredients and diseases. Then, we used the String database to examine the fundamental interaction of common targets of drugs and diseases. An online enrichment analysis was performed to predict the functional pathways. Molecular docking was applied to discover the binding modes between essential ingredients and crucial gene targets. Finally, we demonstrated the anti-inflammatory ability of QFP in the RSV-evoked pneumonia rat model and explained the mechanism in combination with the metabolomics results. Results: There were 19 critical targets defined as the core targets: tumor necrosis factor (TNF), inducible nitric oxide synthase 2 (NOS2), mitogen-activated protein kinase 14 (MAPK14), g1/S-specific cyclin-D1 (CCND1), signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 alpha/beta (STAT1), proto-oncogene tyrosine-protein kinase Src (SRC), cellular tumor antigen p53 (TP53), interleukin-6 (IL6), hypoxiainducible factor 1-alpha (HIF1A), RAC-alpha serine/threonine-protein kinase (AKT1), signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3), heat shock protein HSP 90-alpha (HSP90AA1), tyrosine-protein kinase JAK2 (JAK2), cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor 1 (CDKN1A), mitogen-activated protein kinase 3 (MAPK3), epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), myc proto-oncogene protein (MYC), protein c-Fos (FOS) and transcription factor p65 (RELA). QFP treated RSV pneumonia mainly through the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/RAC AKT pathway, HIF-1 pathway, IL-17 pathway, TNF pathway, and MAPK pathway. Animal experiments proved that QFP could effectively ameliorate RSV-induced pulmonary inflammation. A total of 28 metabolites underwent significant changes in the QFP treatment, and there are four metabolic pathways consistent with the KEGG pathway analyzed by network pharmacology, suggesting that they may be critical processes related to treatment. Conclusion: These results provide essential perspicacity into the mechanisms of action of QFP as a promising anti-RSV drug.
    Abstract:
    Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the underlying mechanism of Shufeng Jiedu Capsule (SFJD) for treating bacterial pneumonia (BP) in vivo based on network pharmacology and experimental verification study. Methods: Network pharmacology was used to screen the active compounds and target genes of SFJD. Then, the multi drug resistance-Pseudomonas aeruginosa (MDR-PA) mice lethal model and MDR-PA pneumonia model were established to evaluate the therapeutic effects and underlying mechanisms of SFJD. Western blot and ELISA were used to determinate the protein expression level of the IL-17 signaling pathway and JAK/STAT signaling pathway. Results: After screening, 172 potential components of SFJD were generated, based on which we constructed an SFJD-component-target-BP interaction network. The Gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes (KEGG) enrichment revealed that SFJD could regulate the IL-17 signaling pathway and Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK/STAT) signaling pathway. Molecular docking showed that the potential target proteins had good combinations with the main active components. SFJD significantly reduced the mortality and prolonged survival days in lethal models. The lung index and pathological changes in the lung were also significantly decreased. SFJD could significantly decrease the expression of interleukin-17A (IL-17A), TNF receptor associated factor 6 (TRAF6), phospho-inhibitor of nuclear factor-kappa B (p-IjB)/inhibitor of NF-jB (IjB), phospho-NF-jB p65 (p-NF-jB p65), phospho-protein kinase B (p-AKT)/AKT, phospho-signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (p -STAT3)/STAT3, phospho-signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 (p-STAT1)/STAT1, and the protein level of interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor a (TNF-a), and IL-1b. Conclusion: Combined with network pharmacology and in vivo study, it was found that SFJD exerted its therapeutic effects on BP by inhibiting the IL-17 pathway and JAK/STAT signaling pathway. This study provides new evidence for SFJD in treatment of BP.
    Abstract:
    Objective: Inula britannica is a traditional Chinese medicinal and functional food with various effects such as anti-liver injury, hypoglycemia, antioxidants, and anti-tumor. The aim of this study was to investigate the protective effects and mechanisms of the ethanolic extract of I. britannica (EEIB) on alcohol-induced liver injury in mice. Methods: Fifty-six female C57BL/6 mice were randomly divided into seven groups: control group (Con), ethanol feeding model group (EtOH), Silibinin positive treatment group (EtOH + Silibinin 100 mg/kg), EEIB treatment group (EtOH + EEIB 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg), and EEIB control group (EEIB 400 mg/kg). The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) ethanol-feeding model was used to study the effects of EEIB on alcohol-induced lipid metabolism, inflammation, oxidative stress, and fibril formation in mice by histopathological evaluation, immunofluorescence staining, Western blotting analysis and molecular docking. Results: EEIB reduced liver indices to different degrees to normal levels and improved liver morphology in mice. EEIB inhibited alcohol-induced liver injury by activating the sirtuin 1 (SIRT1)-adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) signaling pathway in the liver of alcohol-fed mice, in which sesquiterpenes may be the potential active ingredients, and also down-regulated the expression of alpha-smooth muscle actin (a-SMA), collagen alpha (Collagen I), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNFa) and attenuated alcohol-induced liver injury. In addition, EEIB also activated the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) signaling pathway, which alleviated alcohol-induced liver injury at the level of oxidative stress. Notably, the EEIB control group demonstrated that EEIB had no toxic effects in mice. EEIB reduced alcoholic liver injury in a dose-dependent manner. Its therapeutic efficacy was comparable to, if not better than, that of Silibinin when administered at a dose of 400 mg/kg. Conclusion: EEIB showed significant therapeutic effects on alcohol-induced liver injury in mice, and its mechanism of action was related to the SIRT1-AMPK, nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-jB), and Nrf2 signaling pathways, in which sesquiterpenes may be the potential active ingredients.
    Abstract:
    Objective: Zingiberis Rhizoma (ZR, Ganjiang in Chinese), also known as dried ginger, is a popular spice and medicinal herb that has been used for several thousand years. However, ZR is easily contaminated by fungi and mycotoxin under suitable conditions, and might be hazardous to the health and safety of consumers, thus concerns about the herb’s safety have been raised. The aim of this study was to investigate the fungal community and the effects of collection areas and processing methods on the fungal community in ZR. Methods: A total of 18 ZR samples were collected from four provinces of China, and the samples were divided into four groups based on collecting sites. Meanwhile, the samples collected in Sichuan Province, China were divided into three groups based on the processing methods. We employed the Illumina MiSeq PE300 platform and targeted the internal transcribed spacer 2 (ITS2) sequences to investigate fungal contamination in ZR samples, and the difference in fungal community among the groups of different collection sites and processing methods. Results: All 18 samples were contaminated with fungi. Ascomycota was the dominant phyla, accounting for 34.46%–100% of the fungal reads. At the genus level, Candida, Diutina, and Aspergillus were the most dominant genera, with relative abundances of 0–98.37%, 0–99.82%, and 0–79.08%, respectively. Meanwhile, four potential toxigenic fungi and seven human pathogens were found. Furthermore, differences in the community composition of ZR samples from four collecting sites and three processing methods were observed. Conclusion: DNA metabarcoding provides a novel insight into fungal community diversity in ZR samples, providing references to ensure the sustainable utilization and quality research of ZR.
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    2011,3(2):140-143, DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.1674-6384.2011.02.009
    [Abstract] (2550) [HTML] (0) [PDF 142.79 K] (20666)
    Abstract:
    Objective To study a novel feature extraction method of Chinese materia medica (CMM) fingerprint. Methods On the basis of the radar graphical presentation theory of multivariate, the radar map was used to figure the non-map parameters of the CMM fingerprint, then to extract the map features and to propose the feature fusion. Results Better performance was achieved when using this method to test data. Conclusion This shows that the feature extraction based on radar chart presentation can mine the valuable features that facilitate the identification of Chinese medicine.
    2012,4(1):63-69, DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.1674-6384.2012.01.010
    [Abstract] (2332) [HTML] (0) [PDF 160.29 K] (12974)
    Abstract:
    Objective To identify and analyze the volatile constituents in the leaves and fruits of Ficus carica. Methods Gas chromatography (GC) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) were used. Results The major components detected in volatile oil of the leaves were psoralen (10.12%), β-damascenone (10.17%), benzyl alcohol (4.56%), behenic acid (4.79%), and bergapten (1.99%), etc. The major components detected in volatile oil of the fruits were furfural (10.55%), 5-methyl-2-furaldehyde (10.1%), and benzeneacetaldehyde (6.59%), etc. Conclusion A total of 121 volatile constituents are identified in the leaves and 108 in the fruits of F. carica, among which 103 constituents are identified for the first time in the leaves and 100 in the fruits. Eighteen volatile constituents are identified in both leaves and fruits.
    [Abstract] (4628) [HTML] (0) [PDF 469.82 K] (12595)
    Abstract:
    This review is briefly to recall the history of research and development (R&D) of Chinese materia medica (CMM) and to discuss the challenges of Chinese traditional and herbal medicines (CTHM) facing the modern science and technology. The R&D of CTHM is thought to be an important pathway for new drug discovery. Since1949, about 140 approved new drugs have been developed, among which about 80 originated directly or indirectly from medicinal plants. CTHM has gained interest from the international medical, biomedical, and pharmaceutical institutions as a valuable source of potential medicines. For the modernization of CMM and innovative research of CTHM, there are following challenges to be faced: (1) to evaluate the efficacy, pharmacological properties, action mechanism, and active chemical constituents; (2) to develop new methodologies for the quality and safety of CTHM; (3) to apply new “-omics” techniques to accelerate drug discoveries developed from CTHM; and (4) to apply international practices including good agricultural practice, good manufacturing practice, good laboratory practice, and good clinical practice in the R&D of CTHM.
    2010,2(4):272-288, DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.1674-6384.2010.04.005
    [Abstract] (4290) [HTML] (0) [PDF 307.65 K] (11906)
    Abstract:
    Callicarpa Linn. (beautyberry) is one of the major genera in Verbenaceous, about 20 of which are medicinal plants. Beautyberry, called Zizhu in China, is a generic name of those species and largely used as hemostatic medicine. The Chinese Pharmacopoeia 2010 has admitted three new crude drugs from the genus of Callicarpa Linn. including Callicarpae Macrophyllae Folium, Callicarpae Caulis et Folium, and Callicarpae Formosanae Folium for the first time since the 1977 version of the Chinese Pharmacopoeia. In order to better understand these new crude drugs, we systematically described their bibliography, admission reasons, botanical identification, chemistry, and pharmacology. Several other species, out of national regulations but intensively studied and widely used, are also covered in this review.
    2015,7(), DOI:
    [Abstract] (2886) [HTML] (0) [PDF 503.58 K] (11836)
    Abstract:
    Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has developed over thousands of years and has accumulated abundant clinical experience, forming a comprehensive and unique medical system. Emerging evidence has begun to illustrate TCM as an area of important medical rediscoveries. This paper briefly introduced the concept, significance, and technology of network pharmacology based on network biology and systems biology. It focused on the theoretical system and potential prospect of TCM network applied in TCM research and development including predicting new drug targets, action mechanism, new drug discovery; evaluating pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, safety, toxicology, quality control, and bioinformatics of drugs. We also discussed the opportunities and challenges in the development and application of network pharmacology in the modernization of TCM research.
    2012,4(3):245-251, DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.1674-6384.2012.03.012
    [Abstract] (3191) [HTML] (0) [PDF 221.06 K] (11833)
    Abstract:
    Objective Establishing a ?ngerprint method to identify the characteristic chemicals in the roots of Gentiana macrophylla and evaluate their quality. Methods RP-HPLC was developed for ?ngerprint analysis and determination of four ingredients in G. macrophylla roots from different sources. LC-ESI-TOF-MS was employed to identify the chromatographic peaks of the ?ngerprint. Results Five common peaks were identified by comparing their retention time with reference secoiridoid glucosides. Eight major peaks in chromatographic fingerprint were analyzed by on-line LC-ESI-TOF-MS. Four secoiridoid glucosides were identified based on their MS data. Conclusion The method is specific and could be served for the quality identi?cation and comprehensive evaluation of G. macrophylla.
    [Abstract] (3310) [HTML] (0) [PDF 583.26 K] (11786)
    Abstract:
    Rhubarb is a perennial herb belonging to the genus Rheum L. (Polygonaceae). Rhei Radix et Rhizoma (rhubarb roots and rhizomes) is one of the most popular Chinese materia medica and has been widely used for strong laxative function. About 200 compounds with six different types of skeletons (anthraquinone, anthrone, stilbene, flavonoids, acylglucoside, and pyrone) have so far been isolated from eighteen species of the genus Rheum L. These constituents showed extensive pharmacological activities including cathartic, diuretic, anticancer, hepatoprotective, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic effects, as well as toxicological effects. Chemical fingerprint, LC-MS, and other analytical techniques have been used for the quality control of rhubarb. This comprehensive review summarizes the researches into the isolation, pharmacological activities, and phytochemical analysis reported since investigations began in the late 1940s. In addition, pharmacokinetic studies and clinical application of rhubarb are also discussed in present paper.
    2016,8(3):196-208, DOI: 10.1016/S1674-6384(16)60043-6
    [Abstract] (1679) [HTML] (0) [PDF 311.21 K] (10955)
    Abstract:
    Chinese Pharmacopoeia is updated every five years, of which traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is the most important part. The 2015 version completed by the 10th Pharmacopoeia Commission has come into operation since December 1, 2015. Here we introduced the revision and improvement of quality evaluation and control standards of TCMs in Chinese Pharmacopoeia 2015.
    2010,2(2):148-152, DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.1674-6384.2010.02.010
    [Abstract] (4688) [HTML] (0) [PDF 215.71 K] (10291)
    Abstract:
    Objective To develop an efficient method to isolate and purify the main components isoaloeresin D and aloin from Aloe vera for its industrial production. Methods High-speed counter-current chromatography was used to isolate isoaloeresin D and aloin in a one-step separation from dried crude extract of A. vera. The biphasic solvent system composed of hexane-ethyl acetate-acetone-water (0.2︰5︰1.5︰5) was used at a flow rate of 1.0 mL/min, while the lipophilic phase was selected as the mobile phase and the apparatus was rotated at 840 r/min. The effluent was detected at 254 nm. Results Isoaloeresin D (53.1 mg) and aloin (106.9 mg) were separated from the crude extract (384.7 mg) with the purities of 98.6% and 99.5%, respectively. Conclusion HSCCC is a powerful technique for isolation and separation of chemical composition from aloe.
    2010,2(4):250-261, DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.1674-6384.2010.04.003
    [Abstract] (3666) [HTML] (0) [PDF 401.07 K] (10216)
    Abstract:
    For the protection of consumers and developments of relevant industry, authentication of medicinal plants is a critical issue. This review covers various aspects of authentication methods and techniques based on molecular biology and genomics with special emphasis on molecular biology techniques including genome-based authentication, microchip-based authentication, DNA barcoding, and their applications.
    2011,3(2):150-155, DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.1674-6384.2011.02.011
    [Abstract] (3758) [HTML] (0) [PDF 157.86 K] (9737)
    Abstract:
    Objective Ginger (Zingiber officinale) is widely used as a spice in cooking and as a medicinal herb in traditional herbal medicine. The present study was to investigate the analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities of ginger oil in experimental animal models. Methods The analgesic effect of the oils was evaluated by the “acetic acid” and “hot-plate” test models of pain in mice. The anti-inflammatory effect of the oil was investigated in rats, using rat paw edema induced by carrageenan, adjuvant arthritis, and vascular permeability induced by bradykinin, arachidonic acid, and histamine. Indomethacin (1 mg/kg), Aspirin (0.5 g/kg) and Dexamethasone (2.5 mg/kg) were used respectively as reference drugs for comparison. Results The ginger oil (0.25-1.0 g/kg) produced significant analgesic effect against chemically- and thermally-induced nociceptive pain stimuli in mice (P < 0.05, 0.01). And the ginger oil (0.25-1.0 g/kg) also significantly inhibited carrageenan-induced paw edema, adjuvant arthritis, and inflammatory mediators-induced vascular permeability in rats (P < 0.05, 0.001). Conclusion These findings confirm that the ginger oil can be used to treat pain and chronic inflammation such as rheumatic arthritis.
    2015,7(), DOI:
    [Abstract] (2634) [HTML] (0) [PDF 273.72 K] (9361)
    Abstract:
    Cistanches Herba, a famous traditional Chinese materia medica, has a laudatory title “desert ginseng”. According to Chinese Pharmacopoeia 2000, Cistanches Herba is the dry fleshy stem with scale-like leaves of Cistanche deserticola. In order to expand the drug source, Chinese Pharmacopoeia 2005 increased the plants in Cistanche Hoffmg. et Link (Orobanchaceae), C. tubulosa, and dry scaly leaf succulent stems were as genuine Cistanches Herba and still in use. In order to have more comprehensive understanding on Cistanches Herba, this paper focuses the reviews on the biological characteristics, chemical constituents, and pharmacological activities of Cistanches Herba, and its development prospects are looked forward. It provides the relative theoretical basis for the subsequent research work of Cistanches Herba and can be conducive to the development and utilization of Cistanches Herba.
    2010,2(2):81-105, DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.1674-6384.2010.02.001
    [Abstract] (3771) [HTML] (0) [PDF 822.05 K] (9089)
    Abstract:
    Objective The 1-aminocyclopropanecarboxylic acid (ACPC) is a natural micromolecule non-protein amino acid that exists only in plants. Despite the determination of its regulating effects on plants, several bioactivities and effects on animals or humans are still unclear. This review focuses the pharmaceutical effects,above all, the neuroprotective effects of ACPC on the cerebro- and cardiovascular system. Methods Two hundred and seventy nine studies were selected and identified from a total of 2457 references in Medline and Chemical Abstracts from 1957 to 2008. Only 38 articles on neuroprotective effects of ACPC from seven different countries qualified to be included in the analysis. Results ACPC has altogether following six general neuroprotective effects on the brain and nervous system: anti-neurotoxicity induced by NMDA, dynorphin-A, glutamate, and morphine; protection from cerebral neurological injury induced by ischemia; antidepressant and anxiolytic effects; anti-convulsion and -seizures and control of epilepsy; facilitation of spatial learning and memory; and the effect of reducing alcohol consumption. Conclusion ACPC has shown a variety of effects on plants and animals. The bioactivities and pharmaceutical effects on animals are of great significance to medical research and public health. Further clinical trials or epidemiological studies are needed to determine its effect in humans. Food intervention with ACPC-rich vegetables and fruits may be a suitable therapy for cerebro- and cardiovascular system diseases. Administration of trace exogenous ACPC could produce vegetables and fruits of rich endogenous ACPC.
    2015,7(), DOI:
    [Abstract] (2541) [HTML] (0) [PDF 324.52 K] (9061)
    Abstract:
    Objective To predict the total flavonoids concentration of Aurantii Fructus fried with bran in its extraction process. Methods Ultraviolet spectrophotometry was used to determine the concentration of total flavonoids in different extraction time (t ) and solvent load (M ). Then the predicted procedure was carried out using the following data: 1) based on Ficks second law, the parameters of the kinetic model could be deduced and the equation was established; 2) Locally weighted regression (LWR) code was developed in the WEKA software environment to predict the concentration. And then we used both methods to predict the concentration of total flavonoids in new experiments. Results After comparing the predicted results with the experimental data, the LWR model had better accuracy and performance in the prediction. Conclusion LWR is applied to analyze the extraction process of Chinese herb for the first time, and it is totally fit for the extraction. LWR-based system is a more simple and accurate way to predict than the established equation. It is a good choice especially for a process which exists no clearly rules, and can be used in the real-time control during the process.
    2011,3(2):117-126, DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.1674-6384.2011.02.006
    [Abstract] (4951) [HTML] (0) [PDF 211.05 K] (9009)
    Abstract:
    The reports on chemical constituents of Hyoscyamus niger were summarized. The compounds include alkaloids, saponins, lignans, coumarinolignans, flavonoids, and some other nonalkaloidal compounds. TLC, HPLC, and GC were used for the qualitative and quantitative analyses of some chemical constituents in H. niger. Modern pharmacological experiments showed that H. niger had the analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, anticonvulsant, spasmolytic, antidiarrhoeal, antisecretory, bronchodilatory, urinary bladder relaxant, hypotensive, cardiosuppressant, vasodilator, antitumor, and feeding deterrent properties. In addition, the toxicities of this medicinal plant were also described.
    2015,7(), DOI:
    [Abstract] (2678) [HTML] (0) [PDF 488.37 K] (8543)
    Abstract:
    Bentysrepinine (Y101), a derivative of repensine, is a novel di-peptide structure isolated from Dichondra repens. In vitro and in vivo tests exhibited that bentysrepinine markedly inhibited DNA-HBV and cccDNA activities. The binding mode of Y101 and repensine with DNA polymerase was driven by hydrophobic interactions. This might provide novel recognition of inhibitory effect of Y101 against HBV, though its inhibition mechanism needs to be validated by bio-assay at cellular level and of polymerase activity. Preliminary docking study suggested that Y101 might be able to inhibit HIV inverse transcriptase, also have the potential to interact with DNA polymerase and HCV NS5B polymerase.
    2015,7(), DOI:
    [Abstract] (2078) [HTML] (0) [PDF 299.63 K] (8455)
    Abstract:
    The inception of network pharmacology comes from the advance in “multi-target, multi-drug” paradigm and opens up a new field for pharmaceutical science. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is well-known for its use of medicinal herb combinations to treat the functional disorders induced by diseases through a holistic view, which naturally followed the principal of network pharmacology. In this review, the methodologies of network pharmacology in TCM studies were summarized. Specifically, the methodologies for network construction and network analysis were detailed by following several TCM study cases followed. The perspectives for TCM network pharmacology were also provided.
    2015,7(), DOI:
    [Abstract] (2362) [HTML] (0) [PDF 360.32 K] (8052)
    Abstract:
    Objective A reversed-phase HPLC method was established for the simultaneous determination of five hydrophilic and lipophilic components in the roots of Salvia miltiorrhiza. Methods Hydrophilic components including danshensu, protocatechuic aldehyde, and salvianolic acid B, and lipophilic components such as cryptotanshinone and tanshinone IIA, were successfully separated on a Waters Symmetry C18 reverse- phase column (250 mm × 4.6 mm, 5 μm), with acetonitrile-0.5% phosphoric acid (gradient elution) as mobile phase, the detection wavelength was set at 281 nm with flow rate of 1.0 mL/min, and the column temperature was maintained at 30 °C. Results The recovery of the method was in the range of 95.1%–102.5% and the precision was less than 3% for all five analytes. All the compounds showed good linearity (R2 > 0.9990) in a relatively wide concentration range. Therefore, this HPLC method demonstrated good reproducibility, stability, and accuracy in validation studies. Conclusion Simultaneous quanti?cation of the multiple components by HPLC would be a better strategy for the quality evaluation on the roots of S. miltiorrhiza.
    2010,2(3):180-188, DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.1674-6384.2010.03.004
    [Abstract] (2533) [HTML] (0) [PDF 265.22 K] (7883)
    Abstract:
    The publications on the journal of Chinese Traditional and Herbal Drugs in Vol.40, 2009 are briefly reviewed in the categories of chemical constituents, preparations and technologies, analysis and quality control, pharmacological and clinical studies, reviews, and finally healthy principles. Some comments, especially for hot topics have been personally provided.

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