Hyperlipidemia constitutes a critical factor in the pathogenesis of vascular disease and gut microbiota dysbiosis.This study aims to investigate the role of sea buckthorn fruit oil(SBFO)in ameliorating hyperlipidemia,...Hyperlipidemia constitutes a critical factor in the pathogenesis of vascular disease and gut microbiota dysbiosis.This study aims to investigate the role of sea buckthorn fruit oil(SBFO)in ameliorating hyperlipidemia,modulating gut microbiota,and elucidating the underlying mechanisms of its lipid-lowering effects.SBFO intervention in hyperlipidemic mice significantly reduced body weight and visceral adiposity index while mitigating symptoms associated with hyperlipidemia,including dyslipidemia,infla mmation,liver damage,and endothelial dysfunction.Real-time quantitative PCR and Western blot analyses revealed that SBFO enhanced the response of free fatty acid oxidation and breakdown(adenosine 5'-monophosphateactivated protein kinaseα,carnitine palmitoyltransferase1a,peroxisome proliferator-activated receptorα,and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptorγ)while suppressing the synthesis of triglycerides and fatty acids(sterol-regulatory element binding protein 1,fatty acid synthase,and acetyl CoA carboxylase)at the gene and protein expression levels.Moreover,SBFO intervention enriched the gut microbiota of hyperlipidemic mice by increasing the relative abundances of Lactobacillus,Faecalibaculum,and Allobaculum,while decreasing the Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio.These findings suggest that SBFO exhibits promising therapeutic potential in attenuating hyperlipidemia in mice through the regulation of lipid metabolism and modulation of gut microbiota.展开更多
Objective:Grifola frondosa,a medicinal mushroom,is widely used to enhance immunity and treat cancer.Polysaccharides are its primary active components.We aimed to investigate the effects of the alkaloid G.frondosa poly...Objective:Grifola frondosa,a medicinal mushroom,is widely used to enhance immunity and treat cancer.Polysaccharides are its primary active components.We aimed to investigate the effects of the alkaloid G.frondosa polysaccharide(GFP)extract on immunity and gut microbiota.Methods:Alkaloid GFP was extracted using an alkaline extraction method,followed by hollow-fiber microfiltration.The molecular weight of alkaloid GFP was determined by high-performance gel permeation chromatography(HPGPC).Monosaccharide composition was analyzed by pre-column derivatization combined with high-performance liquid chromatography(HPLC).Methylation analysis was performed to characterize glycosidic linkages in alkaloid GFP.The immune function of alkaloid GFP was assessed in a cyclophosphamide(CTX)-induced immunosuppressive mouse model.Splenic lymphocyte proliferation,macrophage phagocytic capacity,and natural killer(NK)cell cytotoxicity were evaluated.The effect of alkaloid GFP on gut microbiota was assessed by 16S rRNA sequencing.Results:The molecular weight distribution of alkaloid GFP ranged from 17 to 18 kDa.The alkaloid GFP contained aβ-(1→6)-glucan backbone branched at O-3 byβ-1,3-D-Glcp.Oral administration of alkaloid GFP mitigated the effects of CTX on spleen index,splenic lymphocyte proliferation,and peritoneal macrophage phagocytosis.Additionally,alkaloid GFP improved the gut microbiota composition of immunosuppressed mice,increasing the relative abundances of Ligilactobacillus and Lactobacillus.Conclusions:Alkaloid GFP demonstrated immune-enhancing effects and gut microbiota regulatory activity,providing a basis for developing related health food ingredients.展开更多
Obesity is a major focus of researchers due to its increasing prevalence and relationship with other diseases,such as cancer and cardiovascular diseases.Probiotics are active microorganisms and have been proven to all...Obesity is a major focus of researchers due to its increasing prevalence and relationship with other diseases,such as cancer and cardiovascular diseases.Probiotics are active microorganisms and have been proven to alleviate obesity by modulating the microbiota.In this study,we found that oral administration of Bifidobacterium adolescentis CCFM8630 to obese mice inhibited high-fat diet(HFD)-induced changes in body weight and adipose tissue and alleviated hepatic oxidative stress.Furthermore,B.adolescentis CCFM8630 treatment primarily affected the relative abundances of the phyla Proteobacteria and Actinobacteria,and thereby decreased the production of lipopolysaccharide(LPS)and the occurrence of LPS related diseases.A high fiber intake increased the abundance of Lactobacillus and the concentrations of short chain fatty acids in obese mice,but these changes were reversed by B.adolescentis CCFM8630 treatment.In addition,targeted metabolomic analysis and microbiota relationship analysis revealed that B.adolescentis CCFM8630 treatment modified the microbiota of obese mice by promoting the conversion of tryptophan(Trp)to xanthurenic acid,kynurenic acid,tryptamine,indole-3-acetic acid,and indole-3-carboxaldehyde;facilitated the expression of interleukin-17A and the aryl hydrocarbon receptor to generate interleukin-22 in the colon;and upregulated the expression of tight junction proteins,thereby strengthening intestinal barriers.In summary,our findings suggest that the intake of B.adolescentis CCFM8630 may alleviate obesity by modulating the gut microbiota and related Trp metabolism.展开更多
Mast cells and basophils are multifunctional effector cells that contain abundant secretory granules in their cytoplasm. Both cell types are involved in a variety of inflammatory and immune events, producing an array ...Mast cells and basophils are multifunctional effector cells that contain abundant secretory granules in their cytoplasm. Both cell types are involved in a variety of inflammatory and immune events, producing an array of inflammatory mediators, such as cytokines. The aim of the study was to examine whether isoquercitrin modulates allergic and inflammatory reactions in the human basophilic KU812 cells and to elucidate its influence on the phosphorylation of mitogen-activated protein kinase(MAPK) and nuclear factor(NF)-κB activation. The KU812 cells were stimulated with phorbol-12-myristate 13-acetate plus the calcium ionophore A23187(PMACI). The inhibitory effects of isoquercitrin on the productions of histamine and pro-inflammatory cytokines in the stimulated KU812 cells were measured using cytokine-specific enzyme-linked immunosorbent(ELISA) assays. Western blotting analysis was used to assess the effects of isoquercitrin on the MAPKs and NF-κB protein levels. Our results indicated that the isoquercitrin treatment of PMACI-stimulated KU812 cells significantly reduced the production of histamine and the pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin(IL)-6, IL-8, IL-1β, and tumor necrosis factor(TNF)-α. The treated cells exhibited decreased phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase(ERK), revealing the role of ERK MAPK in isoquercitrin-mediated allergy inhibition. Furthermore, isoquercitrin suppressed the PMACI-mediated activation of NF-κB in the human basophil cells. In conclusion, the results from the present study provide insights into the potential therapeutic use of isoquercitrin for the treatment of inflammatory and allergic reactions.展开更多
The aim of this study is to investigate the protective effects of a small molecular fraction(SMF) of Polygoni multiflori Radix Praeparata(PMRP) in a cyclophosphamide(CTX) induced anemia mouse model. Small molecular fr...The aim of this study is to investigate the protective effects of a small molecular fraction(SMF) of Polygoni multiflori Radix Praeparata(PMRP) in a cyclophosphamide(CTX) induced anemia mouse model. Small molecular fraction of PMRP was prepared and identified by high-performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry(HPLC-Q-TOF-MS). In pharmacology, we examined the peripheral hemogram and thymus and spleen index. The content of granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor(GM-CSF) in serum was mensurated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay(ELISA);The level of superoxide dismutase(SOD), catalase(CAT), total antioxidant capacity(T-AOC), and malondialdehyde(MDA) in serum and spleen tissue homogenate were detected, and glutathione peroxidase(GSH-PX) was assayed in spleen. The results show that SMF can significantly accelerate the recovery of peripheral hemogram, increase the activity of antioxidant enzymes and GM-CSF in serum and spleen. SMF also increases the number of spleen cells, improves bone marrow pathology. In conclusion, the SMF of PMRP promoted the recovery of hematopoietic function in a CTX-induced anemia mouse, which can support SMF to be used as an adjunct to chemotherapy to counteract its side effects.展开更多
[Objectives] The research aimed to optimize extraction process of fucoidan from Sargassum fusiforme( FSF) and study its moisturizing performance. [Methods]Extracting condition of FSF by cellulase hydrolysis-ultrasonic...[Objectives] The research aimed to optimize extraction process of fucoidan from Sargassum fusiforme( FSF) and study its moisturizing performance. [Methods]Extracting condition of FSF by cellulase hydrolysis-ultrasonic assisted extraction method was optimized. The influences of solvent p H,enzyme dosage,extraction temperature,cellulose hydrolysis time,ultrasonication time,and the ratio of material to liquid on FSF were investigated by single factor and orthogonal experiments. [Results] The optimum extraction conditions were as followings:p H,4. 5; enzyme dosage,1%; extraction temperature,40℃; cellulose hydrolysis time,2 h; ultrasonic time,15 min; and the ratio of material to liquid,1∶ 10( g∶ m L). Under the optimal condition,the extraction yield of FSF was 8. 50%,RSD = 2. 74%. The short-time hygroscopicity( within 8 h) of crude extract of fucoidan from S. fusiforme( CEFSF) was better than glycerin,butanediol,and sodium alginate,and the moisture retention capacity of 1% CEFSF aqueous solution was better than 1% butanediol or 1% sodium alginate,and was equal to 5% glycerin under relative humidity of 43% and 81%. The determination results of skin moisture content and transepidermal water loss rate( TEWL)showed that: 5% CEFSF solution had good moisturizing effect. [Conclusions]The research could provide certain reference for deep development of S. fusiforme.展开更多
Glabridin is the main ingredient of hydrophobic fraction in licorice extract and has been shown to have anti-melanogenesis activity in skins.However,the underlying mechanism(s)remain not completely understood.The aim ...Glabridin is the main ingredient of hydrophobic fraction in licorice extract and has been shown to have anti-melanogenesis activity in skins.However,the underlying mechanism(s)remain not completely understood.The aim of this study is thus to elucidate the possible mechanisms related to the melanogenesis suppression by glabridin in cultured B16 murine melanoma cells and in UVA radiation induced hyperpigmentation model of BALB/c mice as well.Molecular docking simulations revealed that between catalytic core residues and the compound.The treatment by glabridin significantly downregulated both transcriptional and/or protein expression of melanogenesis-related factors including melanocyte stimulating hormone receptor(MC1R),microphthalmia-associated transcription factor(MITF),tyrosinase(TYR),TYR-related protein-1(TRP-1)and TRP-2 in B16 cells.Both PKA/MITF and MAPK/MITF signaling pathways were found to be involved in the suppression of melanogenesis by glabridin in B16 cells.Also in vivo glabridin therapy significantly reduced hyperpigmentation,epidermal thickening,roughness and inflammation induced by frequent UVA exposure in mice skins,thus beneficial for skin healthcare.These data further look insights into the molecular mechanisms of melanogenesis suppression by glabridin,rationalizing the application of the natural compound for skin healthcare.展开更多
Gastrointestinal (GI) digestion, which facilitates the decomposition of ingested food into absorbable small molecules for further utilization in the body, necessitates both neural- and hormonal-regulated coordination ...Gastrointestinal (GI) digestion, which facilitates the decomposition of ingested food into absorbable small molecules for further utilization in the body, necessitates both neural- and hormonal-regulated coordination of GI motility and secretion of digestive enzymes in the GI tract. The dysregulation of such coordination is likely associated with a wide range of disorders in the digestive system. Hawthorn Nectar (HN) is a health supplement for improving the wellness of the gastrointestinal digestive system in humans. The ingredients of HN, which include hawthorn, citrus, germinated barley and honeysuckle, are commonly prescribed to increase appetite and to treat digestive disorders in the practice of traditional Chinese medicine. Pharmacological studies have also shown that these herbs can produce beneficial effects on the GI digestive system. In the present study, HN was first examined for its effects on gastric emptying and postprandial intestinal motility in mice. The activities of digestive enzymes in gastric and pancreatic juice were also measured in HN-pretreated mice. Our results showed that long-term HN treatment increased the extents of gastric emptying and postprandial intestinal motility in mice. HN pretreatment also stimulated the activities of intestinal amylase and lipase in mice, while gastric pepsin and intestinal chymotrypsin activities remained unchanged. However, intestinal trypsin activity was suppressed by HN pretreatment. In conclusion, long-term HN consumption may produce beneficial effect on GI digestive function in humans.展开更多
Pentachloronitrobenzene(PCNB)is an organochlorine fungicide that is mainly used in the prevention and control of diseases in crop seedlings.Microbial removal is used as a promising method for in-situ removal of many o...Pentachloronitrobenzene(PCNB)is an organochlorine fungicide that is mainly used in the prevention and control of diseases in crop seedlings.Microbial removal is used as a promising method for in-situ removal of many organic pesticides and pesticide residues.A short-term field experiment(1 year)was conducted to explore the potential role of a PCNB-degrading bacterial isolate,Cupriavidus sp.YNS-85,in the remediation of a PCNB-contaminated soil on which Panax notoginseng was grown.The following three treatments were used:i)control soil amended with wheat bran but without YNS-85,ii)soil with 0.15 kg m-2of solid bacterial inoculum(A),and iii)soil with 0.30 kg m-2of solid bacterial inoculum(B).The removal of soil PCNB during the microbial remediation was monitored using gas chromatography.Soil catalase and fluorescein diacetate(FDA)esterase activities were determined using spectrophotometry.In addition,cultivable bacteria,fungi,and actinomycetes were counted by plating serial dilutions,and the microbial biodiversity of the soil was analyzed using BIOLOG.After 1 year of in-situ remediation,the soil PCNB concentrations decreased significantly by 50.3%and 74.2%in treatments A and B,respectively,when compared with the uninoculated control.The soil catalase activity decreased in the presence of the bacterial isolate,the FDA esterase activity decreased in treatment A,but increased in treatment B.No significant changes in plant biomass,diversity of the soil microbial community,or physicochemical properties of the soil were observed between the control and inoculated groups(P<0.05).The results indicate that Cupriavidus sp.YNS-85 is a potential candidate for the remediation of PCNB-contaminated soils under P.notoginseng.展开更多
Obesity has been found to be associated with increased incidence of various metabolic disorders. Anti-obesity interventions are therefore urgently needed. An earlier study has demonstrated that treatment with an herba...Obesity has been found to be associated with increased incidence of various metabolic disorders. Anti-obesity interventions are therefore urgently needed. An earlier study has demonstrated that treatment with an herbal formula MCC, which comprises the fruit of Momordica charantia (MC), the pericarpium of Citri reticulate (CR) and L-carnitine (CA), reduced the weight gain in high fat diet (HFD)-fed mice. In the present study, we investigated the effect of long-term treatment with MCC (6 g/kg/day × 40 doses) and various combinations of its constituents in HFD-fed female ICR mice. Body weight change was monitored during the course of the experiment. Total and differential adiposity, plasma lipid contents, metabolic enzyme activities and mitochondrial coupling efficiency in skeletal muscle were measured. Glucose homeostasis was also assessed. Results showed that HFD increased the body weight, total and differential adiposity, and plasma lipid contents as well as impaired metabolic status in skeletal muscle and glucose homeostasis. MCC and all combinations of its constituents reduced the weight gain in HFD-fed mice, which was accompanied with an improvement on glucose homeostasis. While MC, CA and CR independently suppressed the HFD-induced weight gain in mice, MC seems to be the most effective in weight reduction, all of which correlated with the induction of mitochondrial uncoupling in skeletal muscle. Only CA and CR, but not MC, significantly reduced the total adiposity and visceral adiposity as well as plasma cholesterol level. However, the two component combinations, MC + CR and MC + CA, decreased the degree of visceral adiposity and plasma cholesterol level, respectively. MCC treatment at 1.5 g/kg (but not a higher dose of 6 g/kg) suppressed visceral adiposity and induced mitochondrial uncoupling in skeletal muscle in HFD-fed mice. The finding suggests that MCC may offer a promising prospect for ameliorating the diet-induced obesity and metabolic disorders in humans.展开更多
Near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy was applied to reagent-free quantitative analysis of polysaccharide of a brand product of proprietary Chinese medicine (PCM) oral solution samples. A novel method, called absorbance up...Near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy was applied to reagent-free quantitative analysis of polysaccharide of a brand product of proprietary Chinese medicine (PCM) oral solution samples. A novel method, called absorbance upper optimization partial least squares (AUO-PLS), was proposed and successfully applied to the wavelength selection. Based on varied partitioning of the calibration and prediction sample sets, the parameter optimization was performed to achieve stability. On the basis of the AUO-PLS method, the selected upper bound of appropriate absorbance was 1.53 and the corresponding wavebands combination was 400 - 1880 & 2088 - 2346 nm. With the use of random validation samples excluded from the modeling process, the root-mean-square error and correlation coefficient of prediction for polysaccharide were 27.09 mg·L<sup>-</sup><sup>1</sup> and 0.888, respectively. The results indicate that the NIR prediction values are close to those of the measured values. NIR spectroscopy combined with AUO-PLS method provided a promising tool for quantification of the polysaccharide for PCM oral solution and this technique is rapid and simple when compared with conventional methods.展开更多
Air pollutants pose a major environmental threat to the respiratory system. Pathogen invasion and the exposure to particulate matters in atmospheric air, particularly, cigarette smoke (CS), have been found to be assoc...Air pollutants pose a major environmental threat to the respiratory system. Pathogen invasion and the exposure to particulate matters in atmospheric air, particularly, cigarette smoke (CS), have been found to be associated with acute and chronic respiratory diseases, including asthma. Therefore, the search for agents that can protect the respiratory system against potentially harmful substances is of interest in preventive health. Lily bulb Nectar (LBN), which contains Lily bulb, Pyrus pyrifolia N., Siraitia grosvenorii and Apricot kernel as its ingredients, is a health supplement intended to improve the wellness of the respiratory system in humans. Lily bulb, Pyrus pyrifolia N., Siraitia grosvenorii and Apricot kernel are commonly prescribed for the treatment of respiratory tract disorders such as bronchitis, pneumonia and cough in the practice of traditional Chinese medicine. Pharmacological studies have shown that these herbs can produce beneficial effects on the respiratory tract or even the lungs. In the present study, we investigated the effects of LBN on mouse respiratory tract function under normal and challenged conditions. LBN was first examined for its expectorant and anti-tussive activities in mice. The effect of LBN on long-term exposure to CS was also investigated. Our findings showed that long-term LBN treatment enhanced the expectorant activity and suppressed the SO2-induced coughing in mice. LBN treatment also suppressed the CS-induced inflammation in the respiratory tract, as assessed by differential cell count and cytokine production. In conclusion, long-term LBN consumption may produce beneficial effects on the respiratory tract function in humans, particularly in the face of challenge by irritants in the inhaling air.展开更多
Lentinan is a clinically approved immune modulator and its anticancer and immunomodulatory bioactivity is found to be dependent on its triple helical conformation. Therefore, the development of rapid and convenient me...Lentinan is a clinically approved immune modulator and its anticancer and immunomodulatory bioactivity is found to be dependent on its triple helical conformation. Therefore, the development of rapid and convenient method for determination of bioactive lentinan with triple helical conformation holds great promise for the quality control of lentinan healthy products. In this work, an aniline blue fluorescent method was optimized and established to accurately and rapidly detect bioactive lentinan. In the presence of lentinan, the fluorescence intensity of aniline blue with 404 nm excitation and 492 nm emission dramatically enhanced within 15 min in pH 10 glycine-NaOH buffer solution, which allowed the analysis of lentinan in a very simple and fast manner. The method allowed for the sensitive determination of lentinan in the range of 1 to 60 μg/mL with a detection limit of 0.25 μg/mL. Notably, the protocol exhibited excellent selectivity for the determination of triple helical lentinan over other saccharides. The method was successfully applied to the detection of bioactive lentinan in health tonic solution, which demonstrated the method had great potential for quality control of lentinan contained products.展开更多
Objective:Lingzhihuang capsule(LZHC)is a natural product that consists of 10 commonly used medicinal plants,and it is used in traditional Chinese medicine to promote people’s overall health.Previously,LZHC was succes...Objective:Lingzhihuang capsule(LZHC)is a natural product that consists of 10 commonly used medicinal plants,and it is used in traditional Chinese medicine to promote people’s overall health.Previously,LZHC was successfully used as adjuvant therapy for treating patients with cancer.However,the chemical constituents of LZHC and their potential biological functions remain unclear.The aim of this study is to investigate the major bioactive compounds in LZHC and predict their pharmacological targets.Methods:The LZHC constituents were putatively identified by ultra-high performance liquid chromatography coupled with timeof-flight mass spectrometry combined with mass spectrometry-based molecular networking.The targets were predicted using SwissTargetPrediction software,and the associated gene ontology and Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes pathways were analyzed using the Database for Annotation,Visualization,and Integrated Discovery.The mass spectrometry-based molecular network and compound-target-pathway network were constructed using Cytoscape 3.8.0 software.Results:We putatively identified 94 compounds of LZHC by mass spectrometry-based molecular networking,including triterpene(the main structural type)and other clusters(ie,flavonoids and organic acids).Our results suggested that multiple pivotal targets were regulated by LZHC,including tumor necrosis factor,nitric oxide synthase 2,glucocorticoid receptor,estrogen receptor,3-oxo-5-alpha-steroid 4-dehydrogenase 2,prostaglandin e2 receptor ep4 subtype,estrogen receptor beta,phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate 3-kinase catalytic subunit alpha isoform,mitogen-activated protein kinase 3,and racalpha serine,which are related to signal transduction,positive regulation of transcription from RNA polymerase II promoters,oxidation-reduction processes,inflammatory responses,and other biological processes.Functional annotation of those targets suggested that several signaling pathways may be regulated by LZHC,such as cancer-related proteoglycans,the PI3K-Aktsignaling pathway,and the cAMP-signaling pathway.Conclusions:Our findings reveal the chemical constituents of LZHC and provided scientific support for the efficacy of LZHC in terms of immune regulation,anti-aging,and tumor suppression.展开更多
Objectives:To investigate acute toxicity of Bajitian(Morinda officinalis)in zebrafish embryos.Methods:Zebrafish embryos at 48-h post fertilization(hpf)were exposed to Bajitian ethanol extract for72 h.The causative act...Objectives:To investigate acute toxicity of Bajitian(Morinda officinalis)in zebrafish embryos.Methods:Zebrafish embryos at 48-h post fertilization(hpf)were exposed to Bajitian ethanol extract for72 h.The causative action of a delay in yolk sac absorption by Bajitian was investigated by RT-PCR analysis of lipid metabolism-related microsomal triglyceride transfer protein(MTP),apolipoprotein CII(ApoC2)and lipogenesis-related liver x receptor(LXR)genes.The effect of Bajitian eliciting an inflammatory response was studied by exposing 72 hpf myeloperoxidase(MPO):GFP transgenic zebrafish embryos to Bajitian extract for 4 h.Assessment was done by TUNEL,caspase-3/7,and RT-PCR analysis of the apoptosis related pathway B-cell lymphoma 2 associated X protein(Bax),Nuclear factor kappa-lightchain-enhancer of activated B cells(NF-k B)genes,neutrophil development-related stem cell leukaemia(SCL)and transcription factor PU.1 genes,to reveal the causative action of Bajitian reducing neutrophils.Results:RT-PCR analysis found that Bajitian extract had no effect on the expression of MTP or ApoC2 genes,but upregulated LXR gene,which might explain the delay in yolk sac absorption.Analysis of the inflammatory response showed that compared with negative controls,Bajitian extract significantly(P<.05)reduced the number of neutrophils in MPO:GFP embryos.TUNEL,caspase-3/7,and RT-PCR analysis of Bax and NF-k B genes found that Bajitian extract did not trigger the cell apoptosis.Further RT-PCR analysis found that Bajitian extract did not affect SCL expression,but did lead to down-regulation of PU.1.The inhibition of neutrophil development/differentiation may explain the decline in the total number of neutrophils following Bajitian treatment,which could be attributed to the anti-inflammatory effects found clinically for this drug.Conclusions:This study demonstrated that Bajitian caused a delay in yolk sac absorption and a decrease neutrophil in zebrafish embryos,which may be related to the inhibition of neutrophil development.展开更多
Nutmeg essential oil with volatile components is sensitive to oxygen, light, water and high temperature. Spray-drying is widely used as an encapsulation technique for improving compound stability during processing and...Nutmeg essential oil with volatile components is sensitive to oxygen, light, water and high temperature. Spray-drying is widely used as an encapsulation technique for improving compound stability during processing and storage. In this study, influence of encapsulated matrix on spray-dried nutmeg essential oil microcapsule was investigated using blends of maltodextrin and either gum Arabic(GA-MD), or octenyl succinic acid modified starch(OSA-MD) as wall materials. Characteristics of spray-dried powders from these 2 wall materials were evaluated and compared. Powder property analysis indicated that GA-MD microcapsules presented larger size, higher moisture and poorer flowability compared with OSA-MD microcapsules. Fourier transforms infrared spectroscopy and thermogravimetric analysis showed that both GA-MD and OSA-MD microcapsules improved the stability of nutmeg essential oil. However, GA-MD microcapsules exhibited higher storage stability than OSA-MD microcapsules. This research provided theoretical foundation for wall material choice of microcapsule and nutmeg essential oil utilization in food industry.展开更多
Non-coding regions are the major component of human genomes and the long non-coding RNA（IncRNA）is a class of pervasive genes located in noncoding regions（Morris and Mattick,2014）.IncRNAs play a wide range of regul...Non-coding regions are the major component of human genomes and the long non-coding RNA（IncRNA）is a class of pervasive genes located in noncoding regions（Morris and Mattick,2014）.IncRNAs play a wide range of regulatory roles in gene transcription,translation,epigenetic modification and protein function by interacting with different types of molecules including DNA,展开更多
The anti-aging effects of a cream containing L-carnosine and ginseng root extract to provide a reference for the evaluation and development of anti-aging cosmetics were tested. Sixty healthy females, aged 35-60,were g...The anti-aging effects of a cream containing L-carnosine and ginseng root extract to provide a reference for the evaluation and development of anti-aging cosmetics were tested. Sixty healthy females, aged 35-60,were grouped into test sample and placebo groups. Skin elasticity, gloss, and wrinkles of the participants were analyzed before use and after use for 8 weeks. Instrument measurement results showed that after 8 weeks,skin elasticity, gloss, and wrinkles in the members of the test sample group obviously improved relative to those of the placebo group. Clinical effect assessment results showed that subjects did not experience adverse skin reactions, and their skin gloss showed obvious improvement. Self-assessment results showed that 87%subjects are satisfied with the test sample. Cream containing L-carnosine and ginseng root extract has a certain anti-aging effect.展开更多
Gut microbiota and circulating metabolite dysbiosis predate important pathological changes in glucose metabolic disorders;however,comprehensive studies on impaired glucose tolerance(IGT),a diabetes mellitus(DM)precurs...Gut microbiota and circulating metabolite dysbiosis predate important pathological changes in glucose metabolic disorders;however,comprehensive studies on impaired glucose tolerance(IGT),a diabetes mellitus(DM)precursor,are lacking.Here,we perform metagenomic sequencing and metabolomics on 47 pairs of individuals with IGT and newly diagnosed DM and 46 controls with normal glucose tolerance(NGT);patients with IGT are followed up after 4 years for progression to DM.Analysis of baseline data reveals significant differences in gut microbiota and serum metabolites among the IGT,DM,and NGT groups.In addition,13 types of gut microbiota and 17 types of circulating metabolites showed significant differences at baseline before IGT progressed to DM,including higher levels of Eggerthella unclassified,Coprobacillus unclassified,Clostridium ramosum,L-valine,L-norleucine,and L-isoleucine,and lower levels of Eubacterium eligens,Bacteroides faecis,Lachnospiraceae bacterium 3_1_46FAA,Alistipes senegalensis,Megaspaera elsdenii,Clostridium perfringens,α-linolenic acid,10E,12Z-octadecadienoic acid,and dodecanoic acid.A random forest model based on differential intestinal microbiota and circulating metabolites can predict the progression from IGT to DM(AUC=0.87).These results suggest that microbiome and metabolome dysbiosis occur in individuals with IGT and have important predictive values and potential for intervention in preventing IGT from progressing to DM.展开更多
Pharyngitis (an inflammation in the pharynx) is a commonly occurring symptom of upper respiratory tract infection in patients suffering from common cold. The high prevalence of upper respiratory tract infection necess...Pharyngitis (an inflammation in the pharynx) is a commonly occurring symptom of upper respiratory tract infection in patients suffering from common cold. The high prevalence of upper respiratory tract infection necessitates a safe and effective antiinflammatory agent for pharyngitis. Chinese herbal medicine, which has been clinically prescribed for thousands of years, may offer a basis for the treatment of common cold as well as the amelioration of pharyngitis. In the present study, we investigated the in vitro and in vivo anti-inflammatory activities of a Chinese herbal formula, namely GPC, which is comprised of Glycyrrhiza Radix, Platycodonis Radix, Citri Reticulatae Pericarpium, Phyllanthi Fructus and Taraxaci Herba. Incubation with GPC (30, 100 and 300 μg/mL) suppressed the releases of tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), interleukin 6 (IL-6) and nitric oxide in lipopolysaccharide/peptidoglycanactivated RAW264.7 macrophages. In addition to the cell-based study, long-term treatment with GPC (0.35, 1.05 and 2.10 mL/kg/day × 30 doses) was found to reduce the extent of inflammation in animal models of carrageenan-induced paw edema (acute inflammation) as well as cotton pellet-induced granuloma formation (chronic inflammation) in mice. The ability of GPC to enhance the tracheobronchial expectorant action suggested its immunomodulatory activity in the respiratory tract. This postulation was supported by the observation that GPC reduced the degree of pharyngitis and reversed the changes in plasma TNF-α and IL-6 levels in capsaicininduced pharyngitis in rats. The ensemble of results suggests that GPC may offer a promising prospect for alleviating the extent of pharyngitis by virtue of antiinflammatory activities.展开更多
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(31201416)Programme of Introducing Talents of Discipline to Universities(B17018)。
文摘Hyperlipidemia constitutes a critical factor in the pathogenesis of vascular disease and gut microbiota dysbiosis.This study aims to investigate the role of sea buckthorn fruit oil(SBFO)in ameliorating hyperlipidemia,modulating gut microbiota,and elucidating the underlying mechanisms of its lipid-lowering effects.SBFO intervention in hyperlipidemic mice significantly reduced body weight and visceral adiposity index while mitigating symptoms associated with hyperlipidemia,including dyslipidemia,infla mmation,liver damage,and endothelial dysfunction.Real-time quantitative PCR and Western blot analyses revealed that SBFO enhanced the response of free fatty acid oxidation and breakdown(adenosine 5'-monophosphateactivated protein kinaseα,carnitine palmitoyltransferase1a,peroxisome proliferator-activated receptorα,and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptorγ)while suppressing the synthesis of triglycerides and fatty acids(sterol-regulatory element binding protein 1,fatty acid synthase,and acetyl CoA carboxylase)at the gene and protein expression levels.Moreover,SBFO intervention enriched the gut microbiota of hyperlipidemic mice by increasing the relative abundances of Lactobacillus,Faecalibaculum,and Allobaculum,while decreasing the Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio.These findings suggest that SBFO exhibits promising therapeutic potential in attenuating hyperlipidemia in mice through the regulation of lipid metabolism and modulation of gut microbiota.
基金supported by Infinitus Co.,Ltd(2019009)the Scientific and Technologic Foundation of Jilin Province(No.20230202050NC).
文摘Objective:Grifola frondosa,a medicinal mushroom,is widely used to enhance immunity and treat cancer.Polysaccharides are its primary active components.We aimed to investigate the effects of the alkaloid G.frondosa polysaccharide(GFP)extract on immunity and gut microbiota.Methods:Alkaloid GFP was extracted using an alkaline extraction method,followed by hollow-fiber microfiltration.The molecular weight of alkaloid GFP was determined by high-performance gel permeation chromatography(HPGPC).Monosaccharide composition was analyzed by pre-column derivatization combined with high-performance liquid chromatography(HPLC).Methylation analysis was performed to characterize glycosidic linkages in alkaloid GFP.The immune function of alkaloid GFP was assessed in a cyclophosphamide(CTX)-induced immunosuppressive mouse model.Splenic lymphocyte proliferation,macrophage phagocytic capacity,and natural killer(NK)cell cytotoxicity were evaluated.The effect of alkaloid GFP on gut microbiota was assessed by 16S rRNA sequencing.Results:The molecular weight distribution of alkaloid GFP ranged from 17 to 18 kDa.The alkaloid GFP contained aβ-(1→6)-glucan backbone branched at O-3 byβ-1,3-D-Glcp.Oral administration of alkaloid GFP mitigated the effects of CTX on spleen index,splenic lymphocyte proliferation,and peritoneal macrophage phagocytosis.Additionally,alkaloid GFP improved the gut microbiota composition of immunosuppressed mice,increasing the relative abundances of Ligilactobacillus and Lactobacillus.Conclusions:Alkaloid GFP demonstrated immune-enhancing effects and gut microbiota regulatory activity,providing a basis for developing related health food ingredients.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(32272332,32021005,31820103010)the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities(JUSRP622020,JUSRP22006,JUSRP51501)the Program of Collaborative Innovation Centre of Food Safety and Quality Control in Jiangsu Province.
文摘Obesity is a major focus of researchers due to its increasing prevalence and relationship with other diseases,such as cancer and cardiovascular diseases.Probiotics are active microorganisms and have been proven to alleviate obesity by modulating the microbiota.In this study,we found that oral administration of Bifidobacterium adolescentis CCFM8630 to obese mice inhibited high-fat diet(HFD)-induced changes in body weight and adipose tissue and alleviated hepatic oxidative stress.Furthermore,B.adolescentis CCFM8630 treatment primarily affected the relative abundances of the phyla Proteobacteria and Actinobacteria,and thereby decreased the production of lipopolysaccharide(LPS)and the occurrence of LPS related diseases.A high fiber intake increased the abundance of Lactobacillus and the concentrations of short chain fatty acids in obese mice,but these changes were reversed by B.adolescentis CCFM8630 treatment.In addition,targeted metabolomic analysis and microbiota relationship analysis revealed that B.adolescentis CCFM8630 treatment modified the microbiota of obese mice by promoting the conversion of tryptophan(Trp)to xanthurenic acid,kynurenic acid,tryptamine,indole-3-acetic acid,and indole-3-carboxaldehyde;facilitated the expression of interleukin-17A and the aryl hydrocarbon receptor to generate interleukin-22 in the colon;and upregulated the expression of tight junction proteins,thereby strengthening intestinal barriers.In summary,our findings suggest that the intake of B.adolescentis CCFM8630 may alleviate obesity by modulating the gut microbiota and related Trp metabolism.
基金Foundation of Beijing Superiority People(D classification,2014000020124G034)
文摘Mast cells and basophils are multifunctional effector cells that contain abundant secretory granules in their cytoplasm. Both cell types are involved in a variety of inflammatory and immune events, producing an array of inflammatory mediators, such as cytokines. The aim of the study was to examine whether isoquercitrin modulates allergic and inflammatory reactions in the human basophilic KU812 cells and to elucidate its influence on the phosphorylation of mitogen-activated protein kinase(MAPK) and nuclear factor(NF)-κB activation. The KU812 cells were stimulated with phorbol-12-myristate 13-acetate plus the calcium ionophore A23187(PMACI). The inhibitory effects of isoquercitrin on the productions of histamine and pro-inflammatory cytokines in the stimulated KU812 cells were measured using cytokine-specific enzyme-linked immunosorbent(ELISA) assays. Western blotting analysis was used to assess the effects of isoquercitrin on the MAPKs and NF-κB protein levels. Our results indicated that the isoquercitrin treatment of PMACI-stimulated KU812 cells significantly reduced the production of histamine and the pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin(IL)-6, IL-8, IL-1β, and tumor necrosis factor(TNF)-α. The treated cells exhibited decreased phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase(ERK), revealing the role of ERK MAPK in isoquercitrin-mediated allergy inhibition. Furthermore, isoquercitrin suppressed the PMACI-mediated activation of NF-κB in the human basophil cells. In conclusion, the results from the present study provide insights into the potential therapeutic use of isoquercitrin for the treatment of inflammatory and allergic reactions.
文摘The aim of this study is to investigate the protective effects of a small molecular fraction(SMF) of Polygoni multiflori Radix Praeparata(PMRP) in a cyclophosphamide(CTX) induced anemia mouse model. Small molecular fraction of PMRP was prepared and identified by high-performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry(HPLC-Q-TOF-MS). In pharmacology, we examined the peripheral hemogram and thymus and spleen index. The content of granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor(GM-CSF) in serum was mensurated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay(ELISA);The level of superoxide dismutase(SOD), catalase(CAT), total antioxidant capacity(T-AOC), and malondialdehyde(MDA) in serum and spleen tissue homogenate were detected, and glutathione peroxidase(GSH-PX) was assayed in spleen. The results show that SMF can significantly accelerate the recovery of peripheral hemogram, increase the activity of antioxidant enzymes and GM-CSF in serum and spleen. SMF also increases the number of spleen cells, improves bone marrow pathology. In conclusion, the SMF of PMRP promoted the recovery of hematopoietic function in a CTX-induced anemia mouse, which can support SMF to be used as an adjunct to chemotherapy to counteract its side effects.
文摘[Objectives] The research aimed to optimize extraction process of fucoidan from Sargassum fusiforme( FSF) and study its moisturizing performance. [Methods]Extracting condition of FSF by cellulase hydrolysis-ultrasonic assisted extraction method was optimized. The influences of solvent p H,enzyme dosage,extraction temperature,cellulose hydrolysis time,ultrasonication time,and the ratio of material to liquid on FSF were investigated by single factor and orthogonal experiments. [Results] The optimum extraction conditions were as followings:p H,4. 5; enzyme dosage,1%; extraction temperature,40℃; cellulose hydrolysis time,2 h; ultrasonic time,15 min; and the ratio of material to liquid,1∶ 10( g∶ m L). Under the optimal condition,the extraction yield of FSF was 8. 50%,RSD = 2. 74%. The short-time hygroscopicity( within 8 h) of crude extract of fucoidan from S. fusiforme( CEFSF) was better than glycerin,butanediol,and sodium alginate,and the moisture retention capacity of 1% CEFSF aqueous solution was better than 1% butanediol or 1% sodium alginate,and was equal to 5% glycerin under relative humidity of 43% and 81%. The determination results of skin moisture content and transepidermal water loss rate( TEWL)showed that: 5% CEFSF solution had good moisturizing effect. [Conclusions]The research could provide certain reference for deep development of S. fusiforme.
基金supported by the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region Science and Technology Revitalization Foundation (2021CG0029)the National Natural Science Foundation of China (22178070)
文摘Glabridin is the main ingredient of hydrophobic fraction in licorice extract and has been shown to have anti-melanogenesis activity in skins.However,the underlying mechanism(s)remain not completely understood.The aim of this study is thus to elucidate the possible mechanisms related to the melanogenesis suppression by glabridin in cultured B16 murine melanoma cells and in UVA radiation induced hyperpigmentation model of BALB/c mice as well.Molecular docking simulations revealed that between catalytic core residues and the compound.The treatment by glabridin significantly downregulated both transcriptional and/or protein expression of melanogenesis-related factors including melanocyte stimulating hormone receptor(MC1R),microphthalmia-associated transcription factor(MITF),tyrosinase(TYR),TYR-related protein-1(TRP-1)and TRP-2 in B16 cells.Both PKA/MITF and MAPK/MITF signaling pathways were found to be involved in the suppression of melanogenesis by glabridin in B16 cells.Also in vivo glabridin therapy significantly reduced hyperpigmentation,epidermal thickening,roughness and inflammation induced by frequent UVA exposure in mice skins,thus beneficial for skin healthcare.These data further look insights into the molecular mechanisms of melanogenesis suppression by glabridin,rationalizing the application of the natural compound for skin healthcare.
文摘Gastrointestinal (GI) digestion, which facilitates the decomposition of ingested food into absorbable small molecules for further utilization in the body, necessitates both neural- and hormonal-regulated coordination of GI motility and secretion of digestive enzymes in the GI tract. The dysregulation of such coordination is likely associated with a wide range of disorders in the digestive system. Hawthorn Nectar (HN) is a health supplement for improving the wellness of the gastrointestinal digestive system in humans. The ingredients of HN, which include hawthorn, citrus, germinated barley and honeysuckle, are commonly prescribed to increase appetite and to treat digestive disorders in the practice of traditional Chinese medicine. Pharmacological studies have also shown that these herbs can produce beneficial effects on the GI digestive system. In the present study, HN was first examined for its effects on gastric emptying and postprandial intestinal motility in mice. The activities of digestive enzymes in gastric and pancreatic juice were also measured in HN-pretreated mice. Our results showed that long-term HN treatment increased the extents of gastric emptying and postprandial intestinal motility in mice. HN pretreatment also stimulated the activities of intestinal amylase and lipase in mice, while gastric pepsin and intestinal chymotrypsin activities remained unchanged. However, intestinal trypsin activity was suppressed by HN pretreatment. In conclusion, long-term HN consumption may produce beneficial effect on GI digestive function in humans.
基金This research was funded by grants from the Major Science and Technique Programs of Yunnan Province,China(No.2016ZF001)the Science and Technique Programs of Yunnan Province,China(No.2017IB038).
文摘Pentachloronitrobenzene(PCNB)is an organochlorine fungicide that is mainly used in the prevention and control of diseases in crop seedlings.Microbial removal is used as a promising method for in-situ removal of many organic pesticides and pesticide residues.A short-term field experiment(1 year)was conducted to explore the potential role of a PCNB-degrading bacterial isolate,Cupriavidus sp.YNS-85,in the remediation of a PCNB-contaminated soil on which Panax notoginseng was grown.The following three treatments were used:i)control soil amended with wheat bran but without YNS-85,ii)soil with 0.15 kg m-2of solid bacterial inoculum(A),and iii)soil with 0.30 kg m-2of solid bacterial inoculum(B).The removal of soil PCNB during the microbial remediation was monitored using gas chromatography.Soil catalase and fluorescein diacetate(FDA)esterase activities were determined using spectrophotometry.In addition,cultivable bacteria,fungi,and actinomycetes were counted by plating serial dilutions,and the microbial biodiversity of the soil was analyzed using BIOLOG.After 1 year of in-situ remediation,the soil PCNB concentrations decreased significantly by 50.3%and 74.2%in treatments A and B,respectively,when compared with the uninoculated control.The soil catalase activity decreased in the presence of the bacterial isolate,the FDA esterase activity decreased in treatment A,but increased in treatment B.No significant changes in plant biomass,diversity of the soil microbial community,or physicochemical properties of the soil were observed between the control and inoculated groups(P<0.05).The results indicate that Cupriavidus sp.YNS-85 is a potential candidate for the remediation of PCNB-contaminated soils under P.notoginseng.
文摘Obesity has been found to be associated with increased incidence of various metabolic disorders. Anti-obesity interventions are therefore urgently needed. An earlier study has demonstrated that treatment with an herbal formula MCC, which comprises the fruit of Momordica charantia (MC), the pericarpium of Citri reticulate (CR) and L-carnitine (CA), reduced the weight gain in high fat diet (HFD)-fed mice. In the present study, we investigated the effect of long-term treatment with MCC (6 g/kg/day × 40 doses) and various combinations of its constituents in HFD-fed female ICR mice. Body weight change was monitored during the course of the experiment. Total and differential adiposity, plasma lipid contents, metabolic enzyme activities and mitochondrial coupling efficiency in skeletal muscle were measured. Glucose homeostasis was also assessed. Results showed that HFD increased the body weight, total and differential adiposity, and plasma lipid contents as well as impaired metabolic status in skeletal muscle and glucose homeostasis. MCC and all combinations of its constituents reduced the weight gain in HFD-fed mice, which was accompanied with an improvement on glucose homeostasis. While MC, CA and CR independently suppressed the HFD-induced weight gain in mice, MC seems to be the most effective in weight reduction, all of which correlated with the induction of mitochondrial uncoupling in skeletal muscle. Only CA and CR, but not MC, significantly reduced the total adiposity and visceral adiposity as well as plasma cholesterol level. However, the two component combinations, MC + CR and MC + CA, decreased the degree of visceral adiposity and plasma cholesterol level, respectively. MCC treatment at 1.5 g/kg (but not a higher dose of 6 g/kg) suppressed visceral adiposity and induced mitochondrial uncoupling in skeletal muscle in HFD-fed mice. The finding suggests that MCC may offer a promising prospect for ameliorating the diet-induced obesity and metabolic disorders in humans.
文摘Near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy was applied to reagent-free quantitative analysis of polysaccharide of a brand product of proprietary Chinese medicine (PCM) oral solution samples. A novel method, called absorbance upper optimization partial least squares (AUO-PLS), was proposed and successfully applied to the wavelength selection. Based on varied partitioning of the calibration and prediction sample sets, the parameter optimization was performed to achieve stability. On the basis of the AUO-PLS method, the selected upper bound of appropriate absorbance was 1.53 and the corresponding wavebands combination was 400 - 1880 & 2088 - 2346 nm. With the use of random validation samples excluded from the modeling process, the root-mean-square error and correlation coefficient of prediction for polysaccharide were 27.09 mg·L<sup>-</sup><sup>1</sup> and 0.888, respectively. The results indicate that the NIR prediction values are close to those of the measured values. NIR spectroscopy combined with AUO-PLS method provided a promising tool for quantification of the polysaccharide for PCM oral solution and this technique is rapid and simple when compared with conventional methods.
文摘Air pollutants pose a major environmental threat to the respiratory system. Pathogen invasion and the exposure to particulate matters in atmospheric air, particularly, cigarette smoke (CS), have been found to be associated with acute and chronic respiratory diseases, including asthma. Therefore, the search for agents that can protect the respiratory system against potentially harmful substances is of interest in preventive health. Lily bulb Nectar (LBN), which contains Lily bulb, Pyrus pyrifolia N., Siraitia grosvenorii and Apricot kernel as its ingredients, is a health supplement intended to improve the wellness of the respiratory system in humans. Lily bulb, Pyrus pyrifolia N., Siraitia grosvenorii and Apricot kernel are commonly prescribed for the treatment of respiratory tract disorders such as bronchitis, pneumonia and cough in the practice of traditional Chinese medicine. Pharmacological studies have shown that these herbs can produce beneficial effects on the respiratory tract or even the lungs. In the present study, we investigated the effects of LBN on mouse respiratory tract function under normal and challenged conditions. LBN was first examined for its expectorant and anti-tussive activities in mice. The effect of LBN on long-term exposure to CS was also investigated. Our findings showed that long-term LBN treatment enhanced the expectorant activity and suppressed the SO2-induced coughing in mice. LBN treatment also suppressed the CS-induced inflammation in the respiratory tract, as assessed by differential cell count and cytokine production. In conclusion, long-term LBN consumption may produce beneficial effects on the respiratory tract function in humans, particularly in the face of challenge by irritants in the inhaling air.
文摘Lentinan is a clinically approved immune modulator and its anticancer and immunomodulatory bioactivity is found to be dependent on its triple helical conformation. Therefore, the development of rapid and convenient method for determination of bioactive lentinan with triple helical conformation holds great promise for the quality control of lentinan healthy products. In this work, an aniline blue fluorescent method was optimized and established to accurately and rapidly detect bioactive lentinan. In the presence of lentinan, the fluorescence intensity of aniline blue with 404 nm excitation and 492 nm emission dramatically enhanced within 15 min in pH 10 glycine-NaOH buffer solution, which allowed the analysis of lentinan in a very simple and fast manner. The method allowed for the sensitive determination of lentinan in the range of 1 to 60 μg/mL with a detection limit of 0.25 μg/mL. Notably, the protocol exhibited excellent selectivity for the determination of triple helical lentinan over other saccharides. The method was successfully applied to the detection of bioactive lentinan in health tonic solution, which demonstrated the method had great potential for quality control of lentinan contained products.
基金the Foundation of State Key Laboratory of Component-based Chinese Medicine(Grant No.CBCM2020104).
文摘Objective:Lingzhihuang capsule(LZHC)is a natural product that consists of 10 commonly used medicinal plants,and it is used in traditional Chinese medicine to promote people’s overall health.Previously,LZHC was successfully used as adjuvant therapy for treating patients with cancer.However,the chemical constituents of LZHC and their potential biological functions remain unclear.The aim of this study is to investigate the major bioactive compounds in LZHC and predict their pharmacological targets.Methods:The LZHC constituents were putatively identified by ultra-high performance liquid chromatography coupled with timeof-flight mass spectrometry combined with mass spectrometry-based molecular networking.The targets were predicted using SwissTargetPrediction software,and the associated gene ontology and Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes pathways were analyzed using the Database for Annotation,Visualization,and Integrated Discovery.The mass spectrometry-based molecular network and compound-target-pathway network were constructed using Cytoscape 3.8.0 software.Results:We putatively identified 94 compounds of LZHC by mass spectrometry-based molecular networking,including triterpene(the main structural type)and other clusters(ie,flavonoids and organic acids).Our results suggested that multiple pivotal targets were regulated by LZHC,including tumor necrosis factor,nitric oxide synthase 2,glucocorticoid receptor,estrogen receptor,3-oxo-5-alpha-steroid 4-dehydrogenase 2,prostaglandin e2 receptor ep4 subtype,estrogen receptor beta,phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate 3-kinase catalytic subunit alpha isoform,mitogen-activated protein kinase 3,and racalpha serine,which are related to signal transduction,positive regulation of transcription from RNA polymerase II promoters,oxidation-reduction processes,inflammatory responses,and other biological processes.Functional annotation of those targets suggested that several signaling pathways may be regulated by LZHC,such as cancer-related proteoglycans,the PI3K-Aktsignaling pathway,and the cAMP-signaling pathway.Conclusions:Our findings reveal the chemical constituents of LZHC and provided scientific support for the efficacy of LZHC in terms of immune regulation,anti-aging,and tumor suppression.
基金Infinitus(China)Company Ltd.internal research funding。
文摘Objectives:To investigate acute toxicity of Bajitian(Morinda officinalis)in zebrafish embryos.Methods:Zebrafish embryos at 48-h post fertilization(hpf)were exposed to Bajitian ethanol extract for72 h.The causative action of a delay in yolk sac absorption by Bajitian was investigated by RT-PCR analysis of lipid metabolism-related microsomal triglyceride transfer protein(MTP),apolipoprotein CII(ApoC2)and lipogenesis-related liver x receptor(LXR)genes.The effect of Bajitian eliciting an inflammatory response was studied by exposing 72 hpf myeloperoxidase(MPO):GFP transgenic zebrafish embryos to Bajitian extract for 4 h.Assessment was done by TUNEL,caspase-3/7,and RT-PCR analysis of the apoptosis related pathway B-cell lymphoma 2 associated X protein(Bax),Nuclear factor kappa-lightchain-enhancer of activated B cells(NF-k B)genes,neutrophil development-related stem cell leukaemia(SCL)and transcription factor PU.1 genes,to reveal the causative action of Bajitian reducing neutrophils.Results:RT-PCR analysis found that Bajitian extract had no effect on the expression of MTP or ApoC2 genes,but upregulated LXR gene,which might explain the delay in yolk sac absorption.Analysis of the inflammatory response showed that compared with negative controls,Bajitian extract significantly(P<.05)reduced the number of neutrophils in MPO:GFP embryos.TUNEL,caspase-3/7,and RT-PCR analysis of Bax and NF-k B genes found that Bajitian extract did not trigger the cell apoptosis.Further RT-PCR analysis found that Bajitian extract did not affect SCL expression,but did lead to down-regulation of PU.1.The inhibition of neutrophil development/differentiation may explain the decline in the total number of neutrophils following Bajitian treatment,which could be attributed to the anti-inflammatory effects found clinically for this drug.Conclusions:This study demonstrated that Bajitian caused a delay in yolk sac absorption and a decrease neutrophil in zebrafish embryos,which may be related to the inhibition of neutrophil development.
基金supported by the National High Technology Research and Development Program of China(2017YFD0400200)National Natural Science Foundation of China(31701643,31171661,21105119 and 31271879)Research Foundation of the Director General of Oil Crops Research Institute,Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences
文摘Nutmeg essential oil with volatile components is sensitive to oxygen, light, water and high temperature. Spray-drying is widely used as an encapsulation technique for improving compound stability during processing and storage. In this study, influence of encapsulated matrix on spray-dried nutmeg essential oil microcapsule was investigated using blends of maltodextrin and either gum Arabic(GA-MD), or octenyl succinic acid modified starch(OSA-MD) as wall materials. Characteristics of spray-dried powders from these 2 wall materials were evaluated and compared. Powder property analysis indicated that GA-MD microcapsules presented larger size, higher moisture and poorer flowability compared with OSA-MD microcapsules. Fourier transforms infrared spectroscopy and thermogravimetric analysis showed that both GA-MD and OSA-MD microcapsules improved the stability of nutmeg essential oil. However, GA-MD microcapsules exhibited higher storage stability than OSA-MD microcapsules. This research provided theoretical foundation for wall material choice of microcapsule and nutmeg essential oil utilization in food industry.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.31270885 and 31471247)the open fund of Functional Oil Laboratory Associated by Oil Crops Research Institute,Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences and Infinitus (China) Company Ltd
文摘Non-coding regions are the major component of human genomes and the long non-coding RNA（IncRNA）is a class of pervasive genes located in noncoding regions（Morris and Mattick,2014）.IncRNAs play a wide range of regulatory roles in gene transcription,translation,epigenetic modification and protein function by interacting with different types of molecules including DNA,
文摘The anti-aging effects of a cream containing L-carnosine and ginseng root extract to provide a reference for the evaluation and development of anti-aging cosmetics were tested. Sixty healthy females, aged 35-60,were grouped into test sample and placebo groups. Skin elasticity, gloss, and wrinkles of the participants were analyzed before use and after use for 8 weeks. Instrument measurement results showed that after 8 weeks,skin elasticity, gloss, and wrinkles in the members of the test sample group obviously improved relative to those of the placebo group. Clinical effect assessment results showed that subjects did not experience adverse skin reactions, and their skin gloss showed obvious improvement. Self-assessment results showed that 87%subjects are satisfied with the test sample. Cream containing L-carnosine and ginseng root extract has a certain anti-aging effect.
基金supported by the Innovation Team and Talents Cultivation Program of National Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine(ZYYCXTD-D-202001)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(82104835).
文摘Gut microbiota and circulating metabolite dysbiosis predate important pathological changes in glucose metabolic disorders;however,comprehensive studies on impaired glucose tolerance(IGT),a diabetes mellitus(DM)precursor,are lacking.Here,we perform metagenomic sequencing and metabolomics on 47 pairs of individuals with IGT and newly diagnosed DM and 46 controls with normal glucose tolerance(NGT);patients with IGT are followed up after 4 years for progression to DM.Analysis of baseline data reveals significant differences in gut microbiota and serum metabolites among the IGT,DM,and NGT groups.In addition,13 types of gut microbiota and 17 types of circulating metabolites showed significant differences at baseline before IGT progressed to DM,including higher levels of Eggerthella unclassified,Coprobacillus unclassified,Clostridium ramosum,L-valine,L-norleucine,and L-isoleucine,and lower levels of Eubacterium eligens,Bacteroides faecis,Lachnospiraceae bacterium 3_1_46FAA,Alistipes senegalensis,Megaspaera elsdenii,Clostridium perfringens,α-linolenic acid,10E,12Z-octadecadienoic acid,and dodecanoic acid.A random forest model based on differential intestinal microbiota and circulating metabolites can predict the progression from IGT to DM(AUC=0.87).These results suggest that microbiome and metabolome dysbiosis occur in individuals with IGT and have important predictive values and potential for intervention in preventing IGT from progressing to DM.
文摘Pharyngitis (an inflammation in the pharynx) is a commonly occurring symptom of upper respiratory tract infection in patients suffering from common cold. The high prevalence of upper respiratory tract infection necessitates a safe and effective antiinflammatory agent for pharyngitis. Chinese herbal medicine, which has been clinically prescribed for thousands of years, may offer a basis for the treatment of common cold as well as the amelioration of pharyngitis. In the present study, we investigated the in vitro and in vivo anti-inflammatory activities of a Chinese herbal formula, namely GPC, which is comprised of Glycyrrhiza Radix, Platycodonis Radix, Citri Reticulatae Pericarpium, Phyllanthi Fructus and Taraxaci Herba. Incubation with GPC (30, 100 and 300 μg/mL) suppressed the releases of tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), interleukin 6 (IL-6) and nitric oxide in lipopolysaccharide/peptidoglycanactivated RAW264.7 macrophages. In addition to the cell-based study, long-term treatment with GPC (0.35, 1.05 and 2.10 mL/kg/day × 30 doses) was found to reduce the extent of inflammation in animal models of carrageenan-induced paw edema (acute inflammation) as well as cotton pellet-induced granuloma formation (chronic inflammation) in mice. The ability of GPC to enhance the tracheobronchial expectorant action suggested its immunomodulatory activity in the respiratory tract. This postulation was supported by the observation that GPC reduced the degree of pharyngitis and reversed the changes in plasma TNF-α and IL-6 levels in capsaicininduced pharyngitis in rats. The ensemble of results suggests that GPC may offer a promising prospect for alleviating the extent of pharyngitis by virtue of antiinflammatory activities.
