Background Icafiine is a flavonoid isolated from a traditional Chinese medicine Epimedium pubescens and is the main active compound of it. Recently, Epimedium pubescens was found to have a therapeutic effect on osteop...Background Icafiine is a flavonoid isolated from a traditional Chinese medicine Epimedium pubescens and is the main active compound of it. Recently, Epimedium pubescens was found to have a therapeutic effect on osteoporosis. But the mechanism is unclear. The aim of the study was to research the effect of Icariine on the proliferation and differentiation of human osteoblasts. Methods Human osteoblasts were obtained by inducing human marrow mesenchymal stem cells （hMSCs） directionally and were cultured in the presence of vadous concentrations of Icariine. 3-（4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl）-2,5- diphenyltetrazolium bromide （MTT） test was used to observe the effect of Icariine on cell proliferation. The activity of alkaline phosphatase （ALP） and the amount of calcified nodules were assayed to observe the effect on cell differentiation. The expression of bone morphogenetic protein 2 （BMP-2） mRNA was detected by reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction （RT-PCR）. Results Icadine （20 μg/ml） increased significantly the proliferation of human osteoblasts. And, IcarUne （10 μg/ml and 20 μg/ml） increased the activity of ALP and the amount of calcified nodules of human osteoblasts significantly （P〈0.05）. BMP-2 mRNA synthesis was elevated significantly in response to Icariine （20 μg/ml）. Conclusions Icadine has a direct stimulatory effect on the proliferation and differentiation of cultured human osteoblast cells in vitro, which may be mediated by increasing production of BMP-2 in osteoblasts.展开更多
In artificial joint replacement,osteoclast bone resorption induced by wear debris of the implant is a main reason for aseptic loosening.To extend the life of the prosthesis,detailed mechanisms of aseptic loosening and...In artificial joint replacement,osteoclast bone resorption induced by wear debris of the implant is a main reason for aseptic loosening.To extend the life of the prosthesis,detailed mechanisms of aseptic loosening and the ways to prevent it should be explored.The aim of this study was to investigate the in vitro effect of icariine on the bone resorption of osteoclasts induced by titanium particles.Macrophage colony stimulating factor(M-CSF)and receptor activator of NF-kB ligand(RANKL)were used to generate osteoclasts from RAW264.7 precursors.The proliferation of RAW264.7 precursors in the presence of different doses of icariine was evaluated by MTT assay.The cells were treated with titanium particles,titanium particles with icariine and culture medium only(control),respectively.At 48 h after treatment,the expression level of receptor activator of NF-kB(RANK)was detected by ELISA,and messenger RNA(mRNA)levels of tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase(TRAP),matrix metalloproteinase 9(MMP-9),carbonic anhydrase II(CAII)and Cathepsin K(CtsK)were determined by real-time polymerase chain reaction.Western blot was applied to analyze the expression levels of TRAP,RANK and CtsK.In addition,bone chips were cultured in the above conditions,and Toluidine blue staining was then employed to calculate the number and area of resorption pits in the bone chips.After treatment with icariine,expression level of RANK was significantly decreased in the RAW264.7 cell that induced by titanium particle and its cultural medium,mRNA and protein levels of TRAP,CAII,MMP-9 and CtsK were reduced as well.In addition,the numbers of bone resorption pits and areas on bone slices were both reduced by icariine challenging.Icariine could inhibit bone resorption of osteoclast induced by titanium particle,and it might be used as a promising drug for treating of aseptic loosening.展开更多
Compounds isolated from Epimedium include the total flavonoids of Epimedium,icariin,and its metabolites(icaritin,icariside Ⅰ,and icariside Ⅱ),which have similar molecular structures.Modern pharmacological research a...Compounds isolated from Epimedium include the total flavonoids of Epimedium,icariin,and its metabolites(icaritin,icariside Ⅰ,and icariside Ⅱ),which have similar molecular structures.Modern pharmacological research and clinical practice have proved that Epimedium and its active components have a wide range of pharmacological effects,especially in improving sexual function,hormone regulation,anti-osteoporosis,immune function regulation,anti-oxidation,and anti-tumor activity.To date,we still need a comprehensive source of knowledge about the pharmacological effects of Epimedium and its bioactive compounds on the male reproductive system.However,their actions in other tissues have been reviewed in recent years.This review critically focuses on the Epimedium,its bioactive compounds,and the biochemical and molecular mechanisms that modulate vital pathways associated with the male reproductive system.Such intrinsic knowledge will significantly further studies on the Epimedium and its bioactive compounds that protect the male reproductive system and provide some guidances for clinical treatment of related male reproductive disorders.展开更多
Osteoarthritis(OA)is the most prevalent joint disease and icariin is a promising drug for its treatment.However,the clinical use of icariin is hindered by poor water solubility,low bioavailability,and nonspecific rele...Osteoarthritis(OA)is the most prevalent joint disease and icariin is a promising drug for its treatment.However,the clinical use of icariin is hindered by poor water solubility,low bioavailability,and nonspecific release and biological distribution.Herein,sulfonated azocalix[4]arene(SAC4A)with enhanced water solubility,recognition capacity,and designed responsiveness was used to improve the efficiency of icariin for OA therapy.SAC4A,a macrocycle with well-defined molecular weight and structure,could encapsulate and enhance water solubility of various drugs.In addition,SAC4A enables hypoxia-responsive release of loaded drug.Compared with icariin treatment,supramolecular complex icariin@SAC4A significantly relieved OA symptoms of rats,including more regular bone morphology and structure,and lower degree of cartilage damage.Moreover,the supramolecular formulation demonstrated various advantages,including easy preparation,hypoxia-triggered release,and small size that conducive to drug penetration.展开更多
Ovarian aging is characterized by a progressive decline in oocyte quality and quantity with age.Icariin(ICA),a flavonoid compound derived from Epimedium species,has demonstrated potential as an agent for ovarian resto...Ovarian aging is characterized by a progressive decline in oocyte quality and quantity with age.Icariin(ICA),a flavonoid compound derived from Epimedium species,has demonstrated potential as an agent for ovarian restoration.In this study,a subcutaneous implantation system using gelatin methacryloyl(GelMA)hydrogel embedded with ICA was developed to restore ovarian function in aged female mice.Mice were assigned to receive subcutaneous implantation of GelMA alone(GelMA group),GelMA containing ICA(GelMA/ICA group),or a sham operation.Ovarian morphology,serum hormone levels,follicle counts across developmental stages,and reproductive outcomes were evaluated.In vitro fertilization(IVF)and embryo culture assays were performed to assess oocyte developmental potential,while a 10 day natural mating trial was conducted to determine fertility restoration.RNA sequencing(RNA-seq)and RT-qPCR were performed to elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms.Results showed that GelMA/ICA treatment significantly increased ovarian index(0.19±0.01 vs.0.13±0.01,P<0.0001)and follicle numbers at all developmental stages,including primordial(383.33±151.65 vs.107.14±32.26,P<0.0001),primary(203.33±83.22 vs.91.43±27.04,P=0.003),and secondary follicles(154.17±52.00 vs.59.28±20.50,P=0.029)compared to the sham controls.Hormonal analyses revealed a significant reduction in serum follicle-stimulating hormone(FSH,11.97±3.53 vs.53.10±17.89 ng/mL,P=0.0008),accompanied by elevated anti-Müllerian hormone(AMH,22.97±2.26 vs.5.54±1.56 ng/mL,P<0.0001)and estradiol(E2,315.30±37.62 vs.168.5±14.78 pg/mL,P<0.0001).Oocyte yield and developmental potential improved significantly,as reflected by the increased number of superovulated MII oocytes(17.83±5.15 vs.4.83±4.79,P=0.0002),and higher proportions of two-cell(85.90%±6.16%vs.50.00%±10.00%,P=0.0009),four-cell(81.67%±9.76%vs.50.00%±10.00%,P=0.0061),and blastocyst stage embryos(64.25%±10.55%vs.23.33%±15.28%,P=0.0067).Live birth numbers were significantly increased following GelMA/ICA treatment(6.90±3.21 vs.1.72±2.05,P=0.0001).Transcriptomic analysis revealed up-regulation of genes associated with cytoskeletal organization(Vil1,Tubb3),lipid storage(Soat2,Plin4),oocyte maturation(Oosp2),and cytokine secretion(Cxcl12).Collectively,these findings suggest that GelMA/ICA hydrogels effectively reverse key hallmarks of ovarian aging and restore reproductive function in aged mice,offering a promising platform for fertility preservation and a novel therapeutic for future investigations into ovarian aging.展开更多
Icariin is a natural product that possesses numerous pharmaceutical properties.Thus,this study aimed to investigate the molecular mechanism by which icariin prevents ferroptosis in aged-related osteoporosis.Firstly,mR...Icariin is a natural product that possesses numerous pharmaceutical properties.Thus,this study aimed to investigate the molecular mechanism by which icariin prevents ferroptosis in aged-related osteoporosis.Firstly,mRNA transcriptomics was used to analyze differentially expressed genes and ferroptosis markers.Next,a weighted correlation network analysis was conducted on these genes.Then,common genes among ferroptosis,Yinyanghuo,and differentially expressed genes were identified as target genes.Single-cell and spatial transcriptomics were analyzed to evaluate expression changes of target genes in bone marrow.Furthermore,to validate the results of bioinformatics analysis,MC3T3-E1 cells were used to model the preventive effects of icariin in vitro,and ferroptosis markers and mitochondrial function were both examined.In vivo,4-month-old mice were fed a diet containing icariin for 14 months,following which bone proteomics was assessed to identify essential proteins.Hematoxylin-eosin staining and immunohistochemistry assays were performed on mouse femurs.Finally,Western blot and polymerase chain reaction(PCR)analyses were performed to analyze the effects of icariin on ferroptosis target biomarkers.Ptgs2 and Hmox1 were identified as target genes related to both icariin and ferroptosis.The expression of ferroptosis-related genes was up-regulated with age.Moreover,single-cell and spatial transcriptomics analyses revealed that up-regulation of these two genes inhibited osteogenic capability.The results of the in vitro experiments indicated that icariin mitigated the accumulation of reactive oxygen species and β-galactosidase.Similarly,icariin prevented aberrant changes in the levels of ferroptosis-related proteins,consistent with the results of the in vivo experiments.Specifically,10 mg/(kg·day)of icariin inhibited ferroptosis and osteoporosis in aged mice.Overall,this study revealed that icariin could serve as a dietary supplement to prevent age-induced osteoporosis.Furthermore,Ptgs2 and Hmox1 were identified as ferroptosis-related targets through which icariin exerts its protective effects.展开更多
Icariin is a pure compound derived from Epimedium brevicornu Maxim,and it helps the regulation of male reproduction.Nevertheless,the role and underlying mechanisms of Icariin in mediating male germ cell development re...Icariin is a pure compound derived from Epimedium brevicornu Maxim,and it helps the regulation of male reproduction.Nevertheless,the role and underlying mechanisms of Icariin in mediating male germ cell development remain to be clarified.Here,we have demonstrated that Icariin promoted proliferation and DNA synthesis of mouse spermatogonial stem cells(SSCs).Furthermore,surface plasmon resonance iron(SPRi)and molecular docking(MOE)assays revealed that phosphodiesterase 5A(PDE5A)was an important target of Icariin in mouse SSCs.Mechanically,Icariin decreased the expression level of PDE5A.Interestingly,hydrogen peroxides(H2O2)enhanced the expression level of phosphorylation H2A.X(p-H2A.X),whereas Icariin diminished the expression level of p-H2A.X and DNA damage caused by H2O2 in mouse SSCs.Finally,our in vivo animal study indicated that Icariin protected male reproduction.Collectively,these results implicate that Icariin targets PDE5A to regulate mouse SSC viability and DNA damage and improves male reproductive capacity.This study thus sheds new insights into molecular mechanisms underlying the fate decisions of mammalian SSCs and offers a scientific basis for the clinical application of Icariin in male reproduction.展开更多
Alzheimer's disease(AD),a progressive dementia,is one of the most common neurodegenerative diseases.Clinical trial results of amyloid-β(Aβ)and tau regulators based on the pretext of straightforward amyloid and t...Alzheimer's disease(AD),a progressive dementia,is one of the most common neurodegenerative diseases.Clinical trial results of amyloid-β(Aβ)and tau regulators based on the pretext of straightforward amyloid and tau immunotherapy were disappointing.There are currently no effective strategies for slowing the progression of AD.Herein,we spotlight the dysregulation of lipid metabolism,particularly the elevation of ceramides(Cers),as a critical yet underexplored facet of AD pathogenesis.Our study delineates the role of Cers in promoting microglial pyroptosis,a form of programmed cell death distinct from apoptosis and necroptosis,characterized by cellular swelling,and membrane rupture mediated by the NLRP3 inflammasome pathway.Utilizing both in vivo experiments with amyloid precursor protein(APP)/presenilin 1(PS1)transgenic mice and in vitro assays with BV-2 microglial cells,we investigate the activation of microglial pyroptosis by Cers and its inhibition by icariin(ICA),a flavonoid with known antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.Our findings reveal a significant increase in Cers levels and pyroptosis markers(NOD-like receptor family,pyrin domain containing 3(NLRP3),apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a caspase recruitment domain,caspase-1,gasdermin D(GSDMD),and interleukin-18(IL-18))in the brains of AD model mice,indicating a direct involvement of Cers in AD pathology through the induction of microglial pyroptosis.Conversely,ICA treatment effectively reduces these pyroptotic markers and Cer levels,thereby attenuating microglial pyroptosis and suggesting a novel therapeutic mechanism of action against AD.This study not only advances our understanding of the pathogenic role of Cers in AD but also introduces ICA as a promising candidate for AD therapy,capable of mitigating neuroinflammation and pyroptosis through the cyclooxygenase-2(COX-2)-NLRP3 inflammasome-gasdermin D(GSDMD)axis.Our results pave the way for further exploration of Cer metabolism disorders in neurodegenerative diseases and highlight the therapeutic potential of targeting microglial pyroptosis in AD.展开更多
Herein,porous poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid)(PLGA)microspheres were prepared to load icariin andmiR-23b for the treatment of metastatic lung cancer.The microspheres exhibited desirable aerodynamic diameter,high drug lo...Herein,porous poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid)(PLGA)microspheres were prepared to load icariin andmiR-23b for the treatment of metastatic lung cancer.The microspheres exhibited desirable aerodynamic diameter,high drug loading and encapsulation efficiency,as well as a favorable drug release profile,which was beneficial for the deposition and exposure of drugs in the lung tissues.The release solution from microspheres exhibited a favorable anti-proliferative effect by inducting cell apoptosis and arresting the cell cycle at G1 phase,and meanwhile inhibited the migration and invasion of cancer cells.More importantly,the microspheres could be effectively inhaled and accumulated in the lung tissues to trigger the in situ apoptosis of tumor cells and suppress metastasis,using mice bearing melanoma-metastatic lung cancer as a model.Furthermore,inhalation of themicrospheres showed favorable biocompatibility,barely causing tissue damage.Overall,porous PLGA microspheres provide a promising platform for the inhalable co-delivery of drugs and genes to obtain ideal therapeutic efficacy in lung cancer and other pulmonary diseases.展开更多
BACKGROUND Periodontitis is an inflammatory disease caused by the host’s immune response and various interactions between pathogens,which lead to the loss of connective tissue and bone.In recent years,mesenchymal ste...BACKGROUND Periodontitis is an inflammatory disease caused by the host’s immune response and various interactions between pathogens,which lead to the loss of connective tissue and bone.In recent years,mesenchymal stem cell(SC)transplantation technology has become a research hotspot,which can form periodontal ligament,cementum,and alveolar bone through proliferation and differentiation.AIM To elucidate the regulatory effects of WD repeat-containing protein 36(WDR36)on the senescence,migration,and osteogenic differentiation of periodontal ligament SCs(PDLSCs).METHODS The migration and chemotaxis of PDLSCs were detected by the scratch-wound migration test and transwell chemotaxis test.Alkaline phosphatase(ALP)activity,Alizarin red staining,calcium content,and real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction(RT-qPCR)of key transcription factors were used to detect the osteogenic differentiation function of PDLSCs.Cell senescence was determined by senescence-associatedβ-galactosidase staining.RESULTS The 24-hour and 48-hour scratch-wound migration test and 48-hour transwell chemotaxis test showed that overexpression of WDR36 inhibited the migration/chemotaxis of PDLSCs.Simultaneously,WDR36 depletion promoted the migration/chemotaxis of PDLSCs.The results of ALP activity,Alizarin red staining,calcium content,and RTqPCR showed that overexpression of WDR36 inhibited the osteogenic differentiation of PDLSCs,and WDR36 depletion promoted the osteogenic differentiation of PDLSCs.Senescence-associatedβ-galactosidase staining showed that 0.1μg/mL icariin(ICA)and overexpression of WDR36 inhibited the senescence of PDLSCs,and WDR36 depletion promoted the osteogenic differentiation of PDLSCs.CONCLUSION WDR36 inhibits the migration and chemotaxis,osteogenic differentiation,and senescence of PDLSCs;0.1μg/mL ICA inhibits the senescence of PDLSCs.Therefore,WDR36 might serve as a target for periodontal tissue regeneration and the treatment of periodontitis.展开更多
To investigate the effects of icariin （ICA） on angiotensin Ⅱ（Ang Ⅱ）-induced injury in human umbilical vein endothelial cells line （ECV-304）. The ECV-304 cells were cultured in vitro. After 24 h incubating with...To investigate the effects of icariin （ICA） on angiotensin Ⅱ（Ang Ⅱ）-induced injury in human umbilical vein endothelial cells line （ECV-304）. The ECV-304 cells were cultured in vitro. After 24 h incubating with icariin, the model of AngⅡ-induced injury in ECV-304 was established. The cell viability （MTT method）, Lactate dehydrogenase （LDH） release and Nitric oxide （NO） production in the medium, the capacity of scavenging superoxide anion radicals （O2^-） and hydroxyl radicals （.OH） were measured. The activities of superoxide dismutase （SOD）, total nitric oxide synthase （T-NOS）, inducible nitric oxide synthase （iNOS） and constitutive nitric oxide synthase （cNOS） in the cells were determined. Compared with the Ang Ⅱ-treated group, ICA can significantly raise the viability of EC, increase the activities of SOD, T-NOS and cNOS, increase the production of NO, enhance the capacity of scavenging superoxide anion radicals （ O2^- ） and hydroxyl radicals（.OH）, and lower LDH leakage and iNOS activity. The results suggest that ICA can protect endothelial cells （ECV-304） from Ang II-induced injury.展开更多
A composite material was fabricated by applying a biodegradable drug delivery coating,consisting of poly（3-hydroxyburyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate）（PHBV） and icariin,to an anodic oxidized titanium plate.The coating w...A composite material was fabricated by applying a biodegradable drug delivery coating,consisting of poly（3-hydroxyburyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate）（PHBV） and icariin,to an anodic oxidized titanium plate.The coating was prepared by evaporating chloroform solution containing PHBV and icariin on the titanium plate under vacuum condition.Icariin/PHBV coated titanium plates significantly enhance the proliferation of MG-63 cells compared with the PHBV coated and anodic oxidized ones.Increased icariin contained in the coating displays an elevated influence on cell proliferation.The results show that icariin gradually releases from the coating to cells mainly through the phospholipid-based cellular membrane instead of the culture medium.The overall results suggest that the novel icariin/PHBV coating can be used to enhance the bioactivity of titanium based orthopedic implants.展开更多
The aim of the present study was to optimize the supercritical CO_2 extraction conditions of icariin from Herba Epimedii by response surface method(RSM) and central composite design(CCD).A 3-factor,5-level CCD was use...The aim of the present study was to optimize the supercritical CO_2 extraction conditions of icariin from Herba Epimedii by response surface method(RSM) and central composite design(CCD).A 3-factor,5-level CCD was used for the optimization.Independent variables were extraction temperature,extraction pressure and entrainer flow rate.Dependent variable was yield ratio of icariin from Herba Epimedii.A two-order polynomial equation was fitted to the data.The results showed that the optimum extraction conditions were as follows:extraction temperature 46.5℃,extraction pressure 30.6 MPa,entrainer flow rate 3.3 mL/min.CCD/ RSM is convenient and highly predictive for optimizing the extraction process of icariin from Herba Epimedii.展开更多
Aim: To clarify the mechanism of the therapeutic action of icariin on erectlile dysfunction (ED). Methods: PDE5 was isolated from the human platelet and PDE4 from the rat liver tissue using the FPLC system (Pharmacia,...Aim: To clarify the mechanism of the therapeutic action of icariin on erectlile dysfunction (ED). Methods: PDE5 was isolated from the human platelet and PDE4 from the rat liver tissue using the FPLC system (Pharmacia, Milton Keynes, UK) and the Mono Q column. The inhibitory effects of icariin on PDE5 and PDE4 activities were investigated by the two-step radioisotope procedure with [3H]-cGMP/[3H]-cAMP. Papaverine served as the control drug. Results: Icariin and papaverine showed dose-dependent inhibitory effects on PDE5 and PDE4 activities. The IC50 of Icariin and papaverine on PDE5 were 0.432 μmol/L and 0.680μmol/L, respectively and those on PDE4, 73.50 μmol/L and 3.07μmol/L, respectively. The potencies of selectivity of icariin and papaverine on PDE5 (PDE4/PDE5 of IC50) were 167.67 times and 4.54 times, respectively. Conclusion: Icariin is a cGMP-specific PDE5 inhibitor that may be developed into an oral effective agent for the treatment of ED.展开更多
Aim： To investigate the effect of icariin on erectile function and the expression of nitric oxide synthase （NOS） isoforms in castrated rats. Methods： Thirty-two adult male Wistar rats were randomly divided into on...Aim： To investigate the effect of icariin on erectile function and the expression of nitric oxide synthase （NOS） isoforms in castrated rats. Methods： Thirty-two adult male Wistar rats were randomly divided into one shamoperated group （A） and three castrated groups （B, C and D）. One week after surgery, rats were treated with normal saline （groups A and B） or oral icariin （1 mg/[kg·day] for group C and 5 mg/[kg·day] for group D） for 4 weeks. One week after treatment, the erectile function of the rats was assessed by measuring intracavernosal pressure （ICP） during electrostimulation of the cavernosal nerve. The serum testosterone （ST） levels, the percent of smooth muscle （PSM） in trabecular tissue, and the expression of mRNA and proteins of neuronal nitric oxide synthase （nNOS）, inducible nitric oxide synthase （iNOS）, endothelial nitric oxide synthase （eNOS） and phosphodiesterase V （PDES） in corpus cavernosum （CC） were also evaluated. Results： ICP, PSM, ST and the expression of nNOS, iNOS, eNOS and PDE5 were significantly decreased in group B compared with those in group A （P 〈 0.01）. However, ICE PSM and the expression of nNOS and iNOS were increased in groups C and D compared with those in group B （P 〈 0.05）. Changes in ST and the expression of eNOS and PDE5 were not significant （P 〉 0.05） in groups C and D compared with those in group B. Conclusion： Oral treatment with icariin （〉 98.6 % purity） for 4 weeks potentially improves erectile function. This effect is correlated with an increase in PSM and the expression of certain NOS in the CC of castrated rats. These results suggest that icariin may have a therapeutic effect on erectile dysfunction.展开更多
Objective: To investigate the protective effect and underlying mechanism(s) of icariin(ICA) in preventing hydrogen peroxide(H_2O_2)-induced vascular endothelial cell injury via endoplasmic reticulum stress(ERS).Method...Objective: To investigate the protective effect and underlying mechanism(s) of icariin(ICA) in preventing hydrogen peroxide(H_2O_2)-induced vascular endothelial cell injury via endoplasmic reticulum stress(ERS).Methods: To study the effects of ICA on H_2O_2-induced damage, we used the cell counting kit-8 assay to detect cell viability and the terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick-end labeling assay to determine cell adhesion and apoptosis, respectively. Spectrophotometry and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay were used to measure the expression levels of superoxide dismutase(SOD) and glutathione peroxidase(GSH-Px). Subsequently, glucose-regulated protein 78(GRP78), activating transcription factor-4(ATF4) and eukaryotic initiation factor-2 a(eIF2 a) were detected using Western blotting.Results: In human umbilical vein endothelial cells, different concentrations of ICA exhibited multiple effects, including reduced H_2O_2 damage, improved cell viability and adhesion, reduced cell apoptosis and increased SOD and GSH-Px activity. Among the ICA concentrations used, only the H_2O_2+ 100 lmol/L ICA group had significant differences compared to the H_2O_2 group. ERS activators H_2O_2 and DL-dithiothreitol(DTT) significantly increased GRP78, ATF4 and eIF2 a expressions, decreased cell activity and reduced SOD and GSH-Px activity. In contrast, the H_2O_2+ 100 lmol/L ICA and H_2O_2+ 100 lmol/L ICA + DTT groups had significant inhibitory effects on the expressions of GRP78,ATF4 and eIF2 a proteins, showing enhanced cell viability and SOD and GSH-Px activity.Conclusion: The results showed the dose-dependent effects of ICA against H_2O_2-induced injury in vascular endothelial cells. The inhibition of GRP78, ATF4 and eIF2 a protein expressions in the ERS, and the subsequent alleviation of oxidative stress damage, might be the molecular mechanism.展开更多
OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effect of icariin on proliferation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells(BMSCs) in Sprague-Dawley(SD) rats.METHODS: BMSCs were obtained from SD rat bone marrow with differential time adhe...OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effect of icariin on proliferation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells(BMSCs) in Sprague-Dawley(SD) rats.METHODS: BMSCs were obtained from SD rat bone marrow with differential time adherent method. Its characteristic was identified through differentiation cell surface antigens and the multi-lineage(osteo/adipo/chondo) differentiation potential. 3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide(MTT) method and 5-Bromo-2-Deoxyuridine(Brd U) incorporation were applied to detect the effect of icariin on BMSCs proliferation.Flow cytometry was used to detect proliferation in-dex of BMSCs. The m RNA level and the distribution of β-catenin were evaluated by Real-time Polymerase Chain Reaction(PCR) and Immunofluorescent staining respectively. Western blot was used to detect protein expression levels of β-catenin, glycogen synthase kinase-3 beta(GSK-3β), phospho-glycogen synthase kinase-3 beta(p GSK-3β)and cyclin D1.RESULTS: Icariin promoted BMSCs proliferation at the concentration of 0.05-2.0 mg/L. The percentage of Brd U positive cells of BMSCs was increased from40.98% to 70.42%, and the proliferation index value was increased from 8.9% to 17.5% with the treatment of 0.05 mg/L icariin, which significance values were both less than 0.05. Compared with the control group, total and nuclear β-catenin proteins, as well as β-catenin m RNA expression, were all increased with icariin treatment. Meanwhile, the phosphorylation level of GSK-3β and cyclin D1 protein expressions were also increased in BMSCs with icariin treatment.CONCLUSION: The findings of the present study demonstrated that low dosage of icariin could promote BMSCs proliferation. The activation of Wnt/β-catenin pathways was involved in this process.展开更多
Increasing evidence indicates that disruption of normal iron homeostasis may contribute to pathological development of Alzheimer＇s disease.Icariin,astragalus,and puerarin have been shown to suppress iron overload in ...Increasing evidence indicates that disruption of normal iron homeostasis may contribute to pathological development of Alzheimer＇s disease.Icariin,astragalus,and puerarin have been shown to suppress iron overload in the cerebral cortex and improve spatial learning and memory disorders in Alzheimer＇s disease mice,although the underlying mechanism remains unclear.In the present study,APPswe/PS1ΔE9 transgenic mice were administered icariin,astragalus,and puerarin（120,80,and 80 mg/kg,respectively,once a day,for 3 months）.Iron levels were detected by flame atomic absorption spectroscopy.Interleukin-1β,interleukin-6,and tumor necrosis factor-α levels were measured in the cerebral cortex by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay.Glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase activity and malondialdehyde content were determined by colorimetry.Our results demonstrate that after treatment,iron levels and malondialdehyde content are decreased,while glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase activities are increased.Further,interleukin-1β,interleukin-6,and tumor necrosis factor-α levels were reduced.These results confirm that compounds of icariin,astragalus,and puerarin may alleviate iron overload by reducing oxidative stress and the inflammatory response.展开更多
Aim： To evaluate the testosterone mimetic properties of icariin. Methods： Forty-eight healthy male Sprague-Dawley rats at the age of 15 months were randomly divided into four groups with 12 rats each： the control g...Aim： To evaluate the testosterone mimetic properties of icariin. Methods： Forty-eight healthy male Sprague-Dawley rats at the age of 15 months were randomly divided into four groups with 12 rats each： the control group （C）, the model group （M）, the icariin group （ICA） and the testosterone group （T）. The reproductive system was damaged by cyclophosphamide （intraperitoneal injection, 20 mg/kg·day） for 5 consecutive days for groups M, ICA and T, at the sixth day, ICA （gastric gavage, 200 mg/kg·day） for the ICA group and sterandryl （subcutaneous injection, 5 rag/rat.day） for the T group for 7 consecutive days, respectively. The levels of serum testosterone, luteinizing hormone （LH）, follicle stimulating hormone （FSH）, serum bone Gla-protein （BGP） and tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase activity in serum （StrACP） were determined. The histological changes of the testis and the penis were observed by microscope with hematoxylin-eosin （HE） staining and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase biotin-dUTP-X nick end labeling （TUNEL）, respectively. Results： （1） Icariin improved the condition of reproductive organs and increased the circulating levels of testosterone. （2） Icariin treatment also improved the steady-state serum BGP and might have promoted bone formation. At the same time, it decreased the serum levels of StrACP and might have reduced the bone resorption. （3） Icarrin suppressed the extent of apoptosis of penile cavernosal smooth muscle cells. Conclusion： Icariin has testosterone mimetic properties and has therapeutic potential in the management of hypoandrogenism.展开更多
Icariin(ICA) has a significant capacity to protect against depression and hippocampal injury,but it cannot effectively cross the bloodbrain barrier and accumulate in the brain.Therefore,the mechanism by which ICA prot...Icariin(ICA) has a significant capacity to protect against depression and hippocampal injury,but it cannot effectively cross the bloodbrain barrier and accumulate in the brain.Therefore,the mechanism by which ICA protects against hippocampal injury in depression remains unclear.In this study,we performed proteomics analysis of cerebrospinal fluid to investigate the mechanism by which ICA prevents dysfunctional hippocampal neurogenesis in depression.A rat model of depression was established through exposure to chronic unpredictable mild stress for 6 weeks,after which 120 mg/kg ICA was administered subcutaneously every day.The results showed that ICA alleviated depressive symptoms,learning and memory dysfunction,dysfunctional neurogenesis,and neuronal loss in the dentate gyrus of rats with depression.Neural stem cells from rat embryonic hippocampi were cultured in media containing 20% cerebrospinal fluid from each group of rats and then treated with 100 μM corticosterone.The addition of cerebrospinal fluid from rats treated with ICA largely prevented the corticosterone-mediated inhibition of neuronal proliferation and differentiation.Fifty-two differentially expressed proteins regulated by chronic unpredictable mild stress and ICA were identified through proteomics analysis of cerebrospinal fluid.These proteins were mainly involved in the ribosome,PI3 K-Akt signaling,and interleukin-17 signaling pathways.Parallel reaction monitoring mass spectrometry showed that Rps4 x,Rps12,Rps14,Rps19,Hsp90 b1,and Hsp90 aa1 were up-regulated by chronic unpredictable mild stress and down-regulated by ICA.In contrast,Htr A1 was down-regulated by chronic unpredictable mild stress and up-regulated by ICA.These findings suggest that ICA can prevent depression and dysfunctional hippocampal neurogenesis through regulating the expression of certain proteins found in the cerebrospinal fluid.The study was approved by the Experimental Animal Ethics Committee of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine of China in March 2017.展开更多
文摘Background Icafiine is a flavonoid isolated from a traditional Chinese medicine Epimedium pubescens and is the main active compound of it. Recently, Epimedium pubescens was found to have a therapeutic effect on osteoporosis. But the mechanism is unclear. The aim of the study was to research the effect of Icariine on the proliferation and differentiation of human osteoblasts. Methods Human osteoblasts were obtained by inducing human marrow mesenchymal stem cells （hMSCs） directionally and were cultured in the presence of vadous concentrations of Icariine. 3-（4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl）-2,5- diphenyltetrazolium bromide （MTT） test was used to observe the effect of Icariine on cell proliferation. The activity of alkaline phosphatase （ALP） and the amount of calcified nodules were assayed to observe the effect on cell differentiation. The expression of bone morphogenetic protein 2 （BMP-2） mRNA was detected by reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction （RT-PCR）. Results Icadine （20 μg/ml） increased significantly the proliferation of human osteoblasts. And, IcarUne （10 μg/ml and 20 μg/ml） increased the activity of ALP and the amount of calcified nodules of human osteoblasts significantly （P〈0.05）. BMP-2 mRNA synthesis was elevated significantly in response to Icariine （20 μg/ml）. Conclusions Icadine has a direct stimulatory effect on the proliferation and differentiation of cultured human osteoblast cells in vitro, which may be mediated by increasing production of BMP-2 in osteoblasts.
基金This work was supported by grants from Natural Science Foundation of China(81302986)Young Foundation of Fujian Province Health Department,China(no.2007-2-37)Bureau of Science and Technology,Fuzhou(no.2009-G-104).
文摘In artificial joint replacement,osteoclast bone resorption induced by wear debris of the implant is a main reason for aseptic loosening.To extend the life of the prosthesis,detailed mechanisms of aseptic loosening and the ways to prevent it should be explored.The aim of this study was to investigate the in vitro effect of icariine on the bone resorption of osteoclasts induced by titanium particles.Macrophage colony stimulating factor(M-CSF)and receptor activator of NF-kB ligand(RANKL)were used to generate osteoclasts from RAW264.7 precursors.The proliferation of RAW264.7 precursors in the presence of different doses of icariine was evaluated by MTT assay.The cells were treated with titanium particles,titanium particles with icariine and culture medium only(control),respectively.At 48 h after treatment,the expression level of receptor activator of NF-kB(RANK)was detected by ELISA,and messenger RNA(mRNA)levels of tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase(TRAP),matrix metalloproteinase 9(MMP-9),carbonic anhydrase II(CAII)and Cathepsin K(CtsK)were determined by real-time polymerase chain reaction.Western blot was applied to analyze the expression levels of TRAP,RANK and CtsK.In addition,bone chips were cultured in the above conditions,and Toluidine blue staining was then employed to calculate the number and area of resorption pits in the bone chips.After treatment with icariine,expression level of RANK was significantly decreased in the RAW264.7 cell that induced by titanium particle and its cultural medium,mRNA and protein levels of TRAP,CAII,MMP-9 and CtsK were reduced as well.In addition,the numbers of bone resorption pits and areas on bone slices were both reduced by icariine challenging.Icariine could inhibit bone resorption of osteoclast induced by titanium particle,and it might be used as a promising drug for treating of aseptic loosening.
基金supported by the National Nature Science Foundation of China(NSFC,No.31960156,No.31660338,No.31760627,and No.32270848)Collaborative Innovation Center of Chinese Ministry of Education(2020-39),Science and Technology Support Program of Guizhou Province(QKH[2021]111,QKH[2020]4Y192,QKH[2018]5772-006,and QKH[2019]5406)Science and Technology Fund of Guizhou Provincial Health Commission(gzwkj2022-019).
文摘Compounds isolated from Epimedium include the total flavonoids of Epimedium,icariin,and its metabolites(icaritin,icariside Ⅰ,and icariside Ⅱ),which have similar molecular structures.Modern pharmacological research and clinical practice have proved that Epimedium and its active components have a wide range of pharmacological effects,especially in improving sexual function,hormone regulation,anti-osteoporosis,immune function regulation,anti-oxidation,and anti-tumor activity.To date,we still need a comprehensive source of knowledge about the pharmacological effects of Epimedium and its bioactive compounds on the male reproductive system.However,their actions in other tissues have been reviewed in recent years.This review critically focuses on the Epimedium,its bioactive compounds,and the biochemical and molecular mechanisms that modulate vital pathways associated with the male reproductive system.Such intrinsic knowledge will significantly further studies on the Epimedium and its bioactive compounds that protect the male reproductive system and provide some guidances for clinical treatment of related male reproductive disorders.
基金supported by grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.82374489,U20A20259 and 22201299)the Scientific Research Program of the Tianjin Municipal Education Commission(No.2021ZD013)。
文摘Osteoarthritis(OA)is the most prevalent joint disease and icariin is a promising drug for its treatment.However,the clinical use of icariin is hindered by poor water solubility,low bioavailability,and nonspecific release and biological distribution.Herein,sulfonated azocalix[4]arene(SAC4A)with enhanced water solubility,recognition capacity,and designed responsiveness was used to improve the efficiency of icariin for OA therapy.SAC4A,a macrocycle with well-defined molecular weight and structure,could encapsulate and enhance water solubility of various drugs.In addition,SAC4A enables hypoxia-responsive release of loaded drug.Compared with icariin treatment,supramolecular complex icariin@SAC4A significantly relieved OA symptoms of rats,including more regular bone morphology and structure,and lower degree of cartilage damage.Moreover,the supramolecular formulation demonstrated various advantages,including easy preparation,hypoxia-triggered release,and small size that conducive to drug penetration.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(82271671)Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital Academic Innovation Peak Fund(2024-DF-02)+4 种基金Clinical Trials from Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital(2023-LCYJ-MS-05)Nanjing International Science and Technology Cooperation Program(202201027)to L.D.Research Project of State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health(SKLRM-2022D2)Changzhou Medical Center of Nanjing Medical University(CMCM202203)Clinical Trials from Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital(2022-LCYJ-ZD-02)to H.S.
文摘Ovarian aging is characterized by a progressive decline in oocyte quality and quantity with age.Icariin(ICA),a flavonoid compound derived from Epimedium species,has demonstrated potential as an agent for ovarian restoration.In this study,a subcutaneous implantation system using gelatin methacryloyl(GelMA)hydrogel embedded with ICA was developed to restore ovarian function in aged female mice.Mice were assigned to receive subcutaneous implantation of GelMA alone(GelMA group),GelMA containing ICA(GelMA/ICA group),or a sham operation.Ovarian morphology,serum hormone levels,follicle counts across developmental stages,and reproductive outcomes were evaluated.In vitro fertilization(IVF)and embryo culture assays were performed to assess oocyte developmental potential,while a 10 day natural mating trial was conducted to determine fertility restoration.RNA sequencing(RNA-seq)and RT-qPCR were performed to elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms.Results showed that GelMA/ICA treatment significantly increased ovarian index(0.19±0.01 vs.0.13±0.01,P<0.0001)and follicle numbers at all developmental stages,including primordial(383.33±151.65 vs.107.14±32.26,P<0.0001),primary(203.33±83.22 vs.91.43±27.04,P=0.003),and secondary follicles(154.17±52.00 vs.59.28±20.50,P=0.029)compared to the sham controls.Hormonal analyses revealed a significant reduction in serum follicle-stimulating hormone(FSH,11.97±3.53 vs.53.10±17.89 ng/mL,P=0.0008),accompanied by elevated anti-Müllerian hormone(AMH,22.97±2.26 vs.5.54±1.56 ng/mL,P<0.0001)and estradiol(E2,315.30±37.62 vs.168.5±14.78 pg/mL,P<0.0001).Oocyte yield and developmental potential improved significantly,as reflected by the increased number of superovulated MII oocytes(17.83±5.15 vs.4.83±4.79,P=0.0002),and higher proportions of two-cell(85.90%±6.16%vs.50.00%±10.00%,P=0.0009),four-cell(81.67%±9.76%vs.50.00%±10.00%,P=0.0061),and blastocyst stage embryos(64.25%±10.55%vs.23.33%±15.28%,P=0.0067).Live birth numbers were significantly increased following GelMA/ICA treatment(6.90±3.21 vs.1.72±2.05,P=0.0001).Transcriptomic analysis revealed up-regulation of genes associated with cytoskeletal organization(Vil1,Tubb3),lipid storage(Soat2,Plin4),oocyte maturation(Oosp2),and cytokine secretion(Cxcl12).Collectively,these findings suggest that GelMA/ICA hydrogels effectively reverse key hallmarks of ovarian aging and restore reproductive function in aged mice,offering a promising platform for fertility preservation and a novel therapeutic for future investigations into ovarian aging.
基金funded by the Natural Science Foundation of Hubei Province(2021CFB414)Scientific Research Program of Traditional Chinese Medicine of Hubei Provincial Health and Wellness Commission(ZY2021M074).
文摘Icariin is a natural product that possesses numerous pharmaceutical properties.Thus,this study aimed to investigate the molecular mechanism by which icariin prevents ferroptosis in aged-related osteoporosis.Firstly,mRNA transcriptomics was used to analyze differentially expressed genes and ferroptosis markers.Next,a weighted correlation network analysis was conducted on these genes.Then,common genes among ferroptosis,Yinyanghuo,and differentially expressed genes were identified as target genes.Single-cell and spatial transcriptomics were analyzed to evaluate expression changes of target genes in bone marrow.Furthermore,to validate the results of bioinformatics analysis,MC3T3-E1 cells were used to model the preventive effects of icariin in vitro,and ferroptosis markers and mitochondrial function were both examined.In vivo,4-month-old mice were fed a diet containing icariin for 14 months,following which bone proteomics was assessed to identify essential proteins.Hematoxylin-eosin staining and immunohistochemistry assays were performed on mouse femurs.Finally,Western blot and polymerase chain reaction(PCR)analyses were performed to analyze the effects of icariin on ferroptosis target biomarkers.Ptgs2 and Hmox1 were identified as target genes related to both icariin and ferroptosis.The expression of ferroptosis-related genes was up-regulated with age.Moreover,single-cell and spatial transcriptomics analyses revealed that up-regulation of these two genes inhibited osteogenic capability.The results of the in vitro experiments indicated that icariin mitigated the accumulation of reactive oxygen species and β-galactosidase.Similarly,icariin prevented aberrant changes in the levels of ferroptosis-related proteins,consistent with the results of the in vivo experiments.Specifically,10 mg/(kg·day)of icariin inhibited ferroptosis and osteoporosis in aged mice.Overall,this study revealed that icariin could serve as a dietary supplement to prevent age-induced osteoporosis.Furthermore,Ptgs2 and Hmox1 were identified as ferroptosis-related targets through which icariin exerts its protective effects.
基金supported by the grants from the National Nature Science Foundation of China(No.32170862)Developmental Biology and Breeding(No.2022XKQ0205)+2 种基金the Research Team for Reproduction Health and Translational Medicine of Hunan Normal University(No.2023JC101)Graduate Scientific Research Innovation Project of Hunan Province(No.CX2022520)Shanghai Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine(2022SKLRM01).
文摘Icariin is a pure compound derived from Epimedium brevicornu Maxim,and it helps the regulation of male reproduction.Nevertheless,the role and underlying mechanisms of Icariin in mediating male germ cell development remain to be clarified.Here,we have demonstrated that Icariin promoted proliferation and DNA synthesis of mouse spermatogonial stem cells(SSCs).Furthermore,surface plasmon resonance iron(SPRi)and molecular docking(MOE)assays revealed that phosphodiesterase 5A(PDE5A)was an important target of Icariin in mouse SSCs.Mechanically,Icariin decreased the expression level of PDE5A.Interestingly,hydrogen peroxides(H2O2)enhanced the expression level of phosphorylation H2A.X(p-H2A.X),whereas Icariin diminished the expression level of p-H2A.X and DNA damage caused by H2O2 in mouse SSCs.Finally,our in vivo animal study indicated that Icariin protected male reproduction.Collectively,these results implicate that Icariin targets PDE5A to regulate mouse SSC viability and DNA damage and improves male reproductive capacity.This study thus sheds new insights into molecular mechanisms underlying the fate decisions of mammalian SSCs and offers a scientific basis for the clinical application of Icariin in male reproduction.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant No.:82374552)Hunan Provincial Natural Science Foundation of China for Distinguished Young Scholars(Grant No.:2024JJ2086)+1 种基金the Science and Technology Innovation Program of Hunan Province,China(Grant No.:2022RC1220)Support Plan for High-level Health and Medical Talents in Hunan Province,China.
文摘Alzheimer's disease(AD),a progressive dementia,is one of the most common neurodegenerative diseases.Clinical trial results of amyloid-β(Aβ)and tau regulators based on the pretext of straightforward amyloid and tau immunotherapy were disappointing.There are currently no effective strategies for slowing the progression of AD.Herein,we spotlight the dysregulation of lipid metabolism,particularly the elevation of ceramides(Cers),as a critical yet underexplored facet of AD pathogenesis.Our study delineates the role of Cers in promoting microglial pyroptosis,a form of programmed cell death distinct from apoptosis and necroptosis,characterized by cellular swelling,and membrane rupture mediated by the NLRP3 inflammasome pathway.Utilizing both in vivo experiments with amyloid precursor protein(APP)/presenilin 1(PS1)transgenic mice and in vitro assays with BV-2 microglial cells,we investigate the activation of microglial pyroptosis by Cers and its inhibition by icariin(ICA),a flavonoid with known antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.Our findings reveal a significant increase in Cers levels and pyroptosis markers(NOD-like receptor family,pyrin domain containing 3(NLRP3),apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a caspase recruitment domain,caspase-1,gasdermin D(GSDMD),and interleukin-18(IL-18))in the brains of AD model mice,indicating a direct involvement of Cers in AD pathology through the induction of microglial pyroptosis.Conversely,ICA treatment effectively reduces these pyroptotic markers and Cer levels,thereby attenuating microglial pyroptosis and suggesting a novel therapeutic mechanism of action against AD.This study not only advances our understanding of the pathogenic role of Cers in AD but also introduces ICA as a promising candidate for AD therapy,capable of mitigating neuroinflammation and pyroptosis through the cyclooxygenase-2(COX-2)-NLRP3 inflammasome-gasdermin D(GSDMD)axis.Our results pave the way for further exploration of Cer metabolism disorders in neurodegenerative diseases and highlight the therapeutic potential of targeting microglial pyroptosis in AD.
基金the National Natural Science Foundation of China(32271319 and 32071267)the Science and Technology Department of Jilin Province(YDZJ202301ZYTS537 and 20240402035GH)+1 种基金the Development and Reform Commission of Jilin Province(2023C015)the“Medicine+X”cross-innovation team of Bethune Medical Department of Jilin University“Leading the Charge with Open Competition”construction project(2022JBGS04).
文摘Herein,porous poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid)(PLGA)microspheres were prepared to load icariin andmiR-23b for the treatment of metastatic lung cancer.The microspheres exhibited desirable aerodynamic diameter,high drug loading and encapsulation efficiency,as well as a favorable drug release profile,which was beneficial for the deposition and exposure of drugs in the lung tissues.The release solution from microspheres exhibited a favorable anti-proliferative effect by inducting cell apoptosis and arresting the cell cycle at G1 phase,and meanwhile inhibited the migration and invasion of cancer cells.More importantly,the microspheres could be effectively inhaled and accumulated in the lung tissues to trigger the in situ apoptosis of tumor cells and suppress metastasis,using mice bearing melanoma-metastatic lung cancer as a model.Furthermore,inhalation of themicrospheres showed favorable biocompatibility,barely causing tissue damage.Overall,porous PLGA microspheres provide a promising platform for the inhalable co-delivery of drugs and genes to obtain ideal therapeutic efficacy in lung cancer and other pulmonary diseases.
文摘BACKGROUND Periodontitis is an inflammatory disease caused by the host’s immune response and various interactions between pathogens,which lead to the loss of connective tissue and bone.In recent years,mesenchymal stem cell(SC)transplantation technology has become a research hotspot,which can form periodontal ligament,cementum,and alveolar bone through proliferation and differentiation.AIM To elucidate the regulatory effects of WD repeat-containing protein 36(WDR36)on the senescence,migration,and osteogenic differentiation of periodontal ligament SCs(PDLSCs).METHODS The migration and chemotaxis of PDLSCs were detected by the scratch-wound migration test and transwell chemotaxis test.Alkaline phosphatase(ALP)activity,Alizarin red staining,calcium content,and real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction(RT-qPCR)of key transcription factors were used to detect the osteogenic differentiation function of PDLSCs.Cell senescence was determined by senescence-associatedβ-galactosidase staining.RESULTS The 24-hour and 48-hour scratch-wound migration test and 48-hour transwell chemotaxis test showed that overexpression of WDR36 inhibited the migration/chemotaxis of PDLSCs.Simultaneously,WDR36 depletion promoted the migration/chemotaxis of PDLSCs.The results of ALP activity,Alizarin red staining,calcium content,and RTqPCR showed that overexpression of WDR36 inhibited the osteogenic differentiation of PDLSCs,and WDR36 depletion promoted the osteogenic differentiation of PDLSCs.Senescence-associatedβ-galactosidase staining showed that 0.1μg/mL icariin(ICA)and overexpression of WDR36 inhibited the senescence of PDLSCs,and WDR36 depletion promoted the osteogenic differentiation of PDLSCs.CONCLUSION WDR36 inhibits the migration and chemotaxis,osteogenic differentiation,and senescence of PDLSCs;0.1μg/mL ICA inhibits the senescence of PDLSCs.Therefore,WDR36 might serve as a target for periodontal tissue regeneration and the treatment of periodontitis.
基金National "Ninth five-year" Key Technology R&D Programme of China (Grant No.99-929-01-31)
文摘To investigate the effects of icariin （ICA） on angiotensin Ⅱ（Ang Ⅱ）-induced injury in human umbilical vein endothelial cells line （ECV-304）. The ECV-304 cells were cultured in vitro. After 24 h incubating with icariin, the model of AngⅡ-induced injury in ECV-304 was established. The cell viability （MTT method）, Lactate dehydrogenase （LDH） release and Nitric oxide （NO） production in the medium, the capacity of scavenging superoxide anion radicals （O2^-） and hydroxyl radicals （.OH） were measured. The activities of superoxide dismutase （SOD）, total nitric oxide synthase （T-NOS）, inducible nitric oxide synthase （iNOS） and constitutive nitric oxide synthase （cNOS） in the cells were determined. Compared with the Ang Ⅱ-treated group, ICA can significantly raise the viability of EC, increase the activities of SOD, T-NOS and cNOS, increase the production of NO, enhance the capacity of scavenging superoxide anion radicals （ O2^- ） and hydroxyl radicals（.OH）, and lower LDH leakage and iNOS activity. The results suggest that ICA can protect endothelial cells （ECV-304） from Ang II-induced injury.
基金Project (2010DFA32270) supported by International Science & Technology Cooperation Program of ChinaProject (2010) supported by Scientific Research Foundation for the Returned Oversea Scholars of Ministry of Education of China
文摘A composite material was fabricated by applying a biodegradable drug delivery coating,consisting of poly（3-hydroxyburyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate）（PHBV） and icariin,to an anodic oxidized titanium plate.The coating was prepared by evaporating chloroform solution containing PHBV and icariin on the titanium plate under vacuum condition.Icariin/PHBV coated titanium plates significantly enhance the proliferation of MG-63 cells compared with the PHBV coated and anodic oxidized ones.Increased icariin contained in the coating displays an elevated influence on cell proliferation.The results show that icariin gradually releases from the coating to cells mainly through the phospholipid-based cellular membrane instead of the culture medium.The overall results suggest that the novel icariin/PHBV coating can be used to enhance the bioactivity of titanium based orthopedic implants.
文摘The aim of the present study was to optimize the supercritical CO_2 extraction conditions of icariin from Herba Epimedii by response surface method(RSM) and central composite design(CCD).A 3-factor,5-level CCD was used for the optimization.Independent variables were extraction temperature,extraction pressure and entrainer flow rate.Dependent variable was yield ratio of icariin from Herba Epimedii.A two-order polynomial equation was fitted to the data.The results showed that the optimum extraction conditions were as follows:extraction temperature 46.5℃,extraction pressure 30.6 MPa,entrainer flow rate 3.3 mL/min.CCD/ RSM is convenient and highly predictive for optimizing the extraction process of icariin from Herba Epimedii.
文摘Aim: To clarify the mechanism of the therapeutic action of icariin on erectlile dysfunction (ED). Methods: PDE5 was isolated from the human platelet and PDE4 from the rat liver tissue using the FPLC system (Pharmacia, Milton Keynes, UK) and the Mono Q column. The inhibitory effects of icariin on PDE5 and PDE4 activities were investigated by the two-step radioisotope procedure with [3H]-cGMP/[3H]-cAMP. Papaverine served as the control drug. Results: Icariin and papaverine showed dose-dependent inhibitory effects on PDE5 and PDE4 activities. The IC50 of Icariin and papaverine on PDE5 were 0.432 μmol/L and 0.680μmol/L, respectively and those on PDE4, 73.50 μmol/L and 3.07μmol/L, respectively. The potencies of selectivity of icariin and papaverine on PDE5 (PDE4/PDE5 of IC50) were 167.67 times and 4.54 times, respectively. Conclusion: Icariin is a cGMP-specific PDE5 inhibitor that may be developed into an oral effective agent for the treatment of ED.
基金The authors would like to acknowledge the National Nature Science Foundation of China(No.30070927)Beijing National Nature Science Foundation(No.7012023)for grants for this work.
文摘Aim： To investigate the effect of icariin on erectile function and the expression of nitric oxide synthase （NOS） isoforms in castrated rats. Methods： Thirty-two adult male Wistar rats were randomly divided into one shamoperated group （A） and three castrated groups （B, C and D）. One week after surgery, rats were treated with normal saline （groups A and B） or oral icariin （1 mg/[kg·day] for group C and 5 mg/[kg·day] for group D） for 4 weeks. One week after treatment, the erectile function of the rats was assessed by measuring intracavernosal pressure （ICP） during electrostimulation of the cavernosal nerve. The serum testosterone （ST） levels, the percent of smooth muscle （PSM） in trabecular tissue, and the expression of mRNA and proteins of neuronal nitric oxide synthase （nNOS）, inducible nitric oxide synthase （iNOS）, endothelial nitric oxide synthase （eNOS） and phosphodiesterase V （PDES） in corpus cavernosum （CC） were also evaluated. Results： ICP, PSM, ST and the expression of nNOS, iNOS, eNOS and PDE5 were significantly decreased in group B compared with those in group A （P 〈 0.01）. However, ICE PSM and the expression of nNOS and iNOS were increased in groups C and D compared with those in group B （P 〈 0.05）. Changes in ST and the expression of eNOS and PDE5 were not significant （P 〉 0.05） in groups C and D compared with those in group B. Conclusion： Oral treatment with icariin （〉 98.6 % purity） for 4 weeks potentially improves erectile function. This effect is correlated with an increase in PSM and the expression of certain NOS in the CC of castrated rats. These results suggest that icariin may have a therapeutic effect on erectile dysfunction.
基金funded by the following project:Innovation Plan of Chinese Medicine for Major Diseases of Shaanxi Provincial Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine(2015-GXB-02)Sun Simiao Traditional Chinese Medicine Special Project(2016SKT-M001)
文摘Objective: To investigate the protective effect and underlying mechanism(s) of icariin(ICA) in preventing hydrogen peroxide(H_2O_2)-induced vascular endothelial cell injury via endoplasmic reticulum stress(ERS).Methods: To study the effects of ICA on H_2O_2-induced damage, we used the cell counting kit-8 assay to detect cell viability and the terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick-end labeling assay to determine cell adhesion and apoptosis, respectively. Spectrophotometry and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay were used to measure the expression levels of superoxide dismutase(SOD) and glutathione peroxidase(GSH-Px). Subsequently, glucose-regulated protein 78(GRP78), activating transcription factor-4(ATF4) and eukaryotic initiation factor-2 a(eIF2 a) were detected using Western blotting.Results: In human umbilical vein endothelial cells, different concentrations of ICA exhibited multiple effects, including reduced H_2O_2 damage, improved cell viability and adhesion, reduced cell apoptosis and increased SOD and GSH-Px activity. Among the ICA concentrations used, only the H_2O_2+ 100 lmol/L ICA group had significant differences compared to the H_2O_2 group. ERS activators H_2O_2 and DL-dithiothreitol(DTT) significantly increased GRP78, ATF4 and eIF2 a expressions, decreased cell activity and reduced SOD and GSH-Px activity. In contrast, the H_2O_2+ 100 lmol/L ICA and H_2O_2+ 100 lmol/L ICA + DTT groups had significant inhibitory effects on the expressions of GRP78,ATF4 and eIF2 a proteins, showing enhanced cell viability and SOD and GSH-Px activity.Conclusion: The results showed the dose-dependent effects of ICA against H_2O_2-induced injury in vascular endothelial cells. The inhibition of GRP78, ATF4 and eIF2 a protein expressions in the ERS, and the subsequent alleviation of oxidative stress damage, might be the molecular mechanism.
基金the the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Study on the Bushen Chinese Medicine on the BMSCs Differentiation,No.81173619,81403479)Natural Science Foundation of the Jiangsu Province of China(Study of Acupuncture on Ischemic Stroke,No.BK20130956)Specialized Research Fund for the Doctoral Program of Higher Education of China(Epigenetic Mechanism of Acupuncture on Brain Injury,No.20133237120002)
文摘OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effect of icariin on proliferation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells(BMSCs) in Sprague-Dawley(SD) rats.METHODS: BMSCs were obtained from SD rat bone marrow with differential time adherent method. Its characteristic was identified through differentiation cell surface antigens and the multi-lineage(osteo/adipo/chondo) differentiation potential. 3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide(MTT) method and 5-Bromo-2-Deoxyuridine(Brd U) incorporation were applied to detect the effect of icariin on BMSCs proliferation.Flow cytometry was used to detect proliferation in-dex of BMSCs. The m RNA level and the distribution of β-catenin were evaluated by Real-time Polymerase Chain Reaction(PCR) and Immunofluorescent staining respectively. Western blot was used to detect protein expression levels of β-catenin, glycogen synthase kinase-3 beta(GSK-3β), phospho-glycogen synthase kinase-3 beta(p GSK-3β)and cyclin D1.RESULTS: Icariin promoted BMSCs proliferation at the concentration of 0.05-2.0 mg/L. The percentage of Brd U positive cells of BMSCs was increased from40.98% to 70.42%, and the proliferation index value was increased from 8.9% to 17.5% with the treatment of 0.05 mg/L icariin, which significance values were both less than 0.05. Compared with the control group, total and nuclear β-catenin proteins, as well as β-catenin m RNA expression, were all increased with icariin treatment. Meanwhile, the phosphorylation level of GSK-3β and cyclin D1 protein expressions were also increased in BMSCs with icariin treatment.CONCLUSION: The findings of the present study demonstrated that low dosage of icariin could promote BMSCs proliferation. The activation of Wnt/β-catenin pathways was involved in this process.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.81273983
文摘Increasing evidence indicates that disruption of normal iron homeostasis may contribute to pathological development of Alzheimer＇s disease.Icariin,astragalus,and puerarin have been shown to suppress iron overload in the cerebral cortex and improve spatial learning and memory disorders in Alzheimer＇s disease mice,although the underlying mechanism remains unclear.In the present study,APPswe/PS1ΔE9 transgenic mice were administered icariin,astragalus,and puerarin（120,80,and 80 mg/kg,respectively,once a day,for 3 months）.Iron levels were detected by flame atomic absorption spectroscopy.Interleukin-1β,interleukin-6,and tumor necrosis factor-α levels were measured in the cerebral cortex by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay.Glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase activity and malondialdehyde content were determined by colorimetry.Our results demonstrate that after treatment,iron levels and malondialdehyde content are decreased,while glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase activities are increased.Further,interleukin-1β,interleukin-6,and tumor necrosis factor-α levels were reduced.These results confirm that compounds of icariin,astragalus,and puerarin may alleviate iron overload by reducing oxidative stress and the inflammatory response.
文摘Aim： To evaluate the testosterone mimetic properties of icariin. Methods： Forty-eight healthy male Sprague-Dawley rats at the age of 15 months were randomly divided into four groups with 12 rats each： the control group （C）, the model group （M）, the icariin group （ICA） and the testosterone group （T）. The reproductive system was damaged by cyclophosphamide （intraperitoneal injection, 20 mg/kg·day） for 5 consecutive days for groups M, ICA and T, at the sixth day, ICA （gastric gavage, 200 mg/kg·day） for the ICA group and sterandryl （subcutaneous injection, 5 rag/rat.day） for the T group for 7 consecutive days, respectively. The levels of serum testosterone, luteinizing hormone （LH）, follicle stimulating hormone （FSH）, serum bone Gla-protein （BGP） and tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase activity in serum （StrACP） were determined. The histological changes of the testis and the penis were observed by microscope with hematoxylin-eosin （HE） staining and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase biotin-dUTP-X nick end labeling （TUNEL）, respectively. Results： （1） Icariin improved the condition of reproductive organs and increased the circulating levels of testosterone. （2） Icariin treatment also improved the steady-state serum BGP and might have promoted bone formation. At the same time, it decreased the serum levels of StrACP and might have reduced the bone resorption. （3） Icarrin suppressed the extent of apoptosis of penile cavernosal smooth muscle cells. Conclusion： Icariin has testosterone mimetic properties and has therapeutic potential in the management of hypoandrogenism.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.81774102 (to LLW)。
文摘Icariin(ICA) has a significant capacity to protect against depression and hippocampal injury,but it cannot effectively cross the bloodbrain barrier and accumulate in the brain.Therefore,the mechanism by which ICA protects against hippocampal injury in depression remains unclear.In this study,we performed proteomics analysis of cerebrospinal fluid to investigate the mechanism by which ICA prevents dysfunctional hippocampal neurogenesis in depression.A rat model of depression was established through exposure to chronic unpredictable mild stress for 6 weeks,after which 120 mg/kg ICA was administered subcutaneously every day.The results showed that ICA alleviated depressive symptoms,learning and memory dysfunction,dysfunctional neurogenesis,and neuronal loss in the dentate gyrus of rats with depression.Neural stem cells from rat embryonic hippocampi were cultured in media containing 20% cerebrospinal fluid from each group of rats and then treated with 100 μM corticosterone.The addition of cerebrospinal fluid from rats treated with ICA largely prevented the corticosterone-mediated inhibition of neuronal proliferation and differentiation.Fifty-two differentially expressed proteins regulated by chronic unpredictable mild stress and ICA were identified through proteomics analysis of cerebrospinal fluid.These proteins were mainly involved in the ribosome,PI3 K-Akt signaling,and interleukin-17 signaling pathways.Parallel reaction monitoring mass spectrometry showed that Rps4 x,Rps12,Rps14,Rps19,Hsp90 b1,and Hsp90 aa1 were up-regulated by chronic unpredictable mild stress and down-regulated by ICA.In contrast,Htr A1 was down-regulated by chronic unpredictable mild stress and up-regulated by ICA.These findings suggest that ICA can prevent depression and dysfunctional hippocampal neurogenesis through regulating the expression of certain proteins found in the cerebrospinal fluid.The study was approved by the Experimental Animal Ethics Committee of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine of China in March 2017.
