J Ethnopharmacol [JOURNAL]
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200 papers
Corrigendum to "Total flavonoids of Flos Chrysanthemi protect arterial endothelial cells against oxidative stress" [J. Ethnopharmacol. 139 (2012) 68-73].
He D, Ru X, Wen L … +6 more , Wen Y, Jiang H, Bruce IC, Jin J, Ma X, Xia Q
J Ethnopharmacol · 2026 Jun · PMID 42285792 · Publisher ↗
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Ophiopogon japonicus alleviates pulmonary fibrosis through modulation of HIF1A/TUBB3 axis-associated M2 macrophage polarization and arginine metabolic alterations.
Wen K, Zhao Q, Wang S … +5 more , Liu F, Cai M, Wang H, Zhou X, Xu Y
J Ethnopharmacol · 2026 Nov · PMID 42285238 · Publisher ↗
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Ophiopogon japonicus (Thunb.) Ker Gawl. is a traditional Chinese medicinal herb commonly used to "nourish yin and moisten the lung", and has long been applied for the prevention and treatm...
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Ophiopogon japonicus (Thunb.) Ker Gawl. is a traditional Chinese medicinal herb commonly used to "nourish yin and moisten the lung", and has long been applied for the prevention and treatment of lung-related disorders in classical medical texts such as the Treatise on Typhoid Fever and Item Differentiation of Warm Febrile Diseases. Pulmonary fibrosis (PF) is a chronic progressive fibrotic lung disease with limited therapeutic options. Although Ophiopogon japonicus has shown anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic potential in respiratory diseases, its pharmacological mechanisms against PF remain unclear. AIM OF THE STUDY: This study aimed to evaluate the protective effects of Ophiopogon japonicus aqueous decoction against PF and to investigate whether its anti-fibrotic effects are associated with the modulation of hypoxia-inducible factor 1 subunit α (HIF1A)/tubulin beta 3 class III (TUBB3) axis-associated M2 macrophage polarization and arginine metabolic alterations. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Potential bioactive constituents of Ophiopogon japonicus aqueous decoction were first screened using UHPLC-Q Exactive Orbitrap-HRMS combined with Lipinski's rule of five. A bleomycin (BLM)-induced mouse model of PF was then established, and Ophiopogon japonicus aqueous decoction was administered as an intervention. Body weight, pulmonary function testing (PFT), micro-CT, histopathology, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and immunohistochemistry (IHC) were used to evaluate its pharmacodynamic effects. Network pharmacology, Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) mining, weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA), machine learning (ML), transcriptomics, metabolomics, and single-cell transcriptomics combined with virtual knockout analysis were further integrated to identify candidate targets, related pathways, and metabolic alterations. Finally, flow cytometry, western blotting, immunofluorescence (IF) co-staining, AlphaFold3, molecular docking, and molecular dynamics simulation were performed to further assess phenotypic changes, predicted molecular associations, and candidate active constituents. RESULTS: Ophiopogon japonicus aqueous decoction significantly alleviated BLM-induced PF, and 16 potential bioactive constituents were identified. In vivo experiments showed that Ophiopogon japonicus aqueous decoction attenuated body weight loss, pulmonary dysfunction, micro-CT abnormalities, histopathological injury, collagen deposition, inflammatory responses, and fibrosis scores in PF mice. Bioinformatic analysis identified HIF1A as a candidate hub target and TUBB3 as a key feature gene. Further multi-omics analysis showed that the HIF1A/TUBB3 axis-associated module was closely associated with M2 macrophage polarization and arginine metabolic dysregulation; combined with virtual knockout analysis, these results further suggested that HIF1A may be located upstream of TUBB3 at the predicted regulatory-network level. Experimental analyses showed that Ophiopogon japonicus aqueous decoction intervention was associated with decreased HIF-1α and TUBB3 protein expression, reduced M2 macrophage polarization, and partial correction of arginine metabolic dysregulation. Structural simulation suggested that Ophiopogonin D could stably bind to HIF-1α and TUBB3. CONCLUSION: This study demonstrated that Ophiopogon japonicus aqueous decoction alleviates BLM-induced PF. Integrated multi-omics analysis and experimental evidence suggested that its anti-fibrotic effects may be associated with modulation of HIF1A/TUBB3 axis-associated M2 macrophage polarization and arginine metabolic dysregulation. Ophiopogonin D may be one of the candidate active constituents associated with these protective effects.
High-resolution chemical characterization and bioactivity assessment of Solanum cernuum infusion.
de Oliveira Silva D, Salem PPO, Costa LPM … +7 more , da Silva PRS, Murgu M, Sartorelli P, Dias DF, Chagas de Paula DA, Edrada-Ebel R, Soares MG
J Ethnopharmacol · 2026 Nov · PMID 42285237 · Publisher ↗
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Solanum cernuum Vell. (Solanaceae), popularly known in Brazil as "panacéia", is widely employed in folk medicine to treat renal and urinary tract disorders. However, despite its ethnopharm...
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Solanum cernuum Vell. (Solanaceae), popularly known in Brazil as "panacéia", is widely employed in folk medicine to treat renal and urinary tract disorders. However, despite its ethnopharmacological relevance, the scientific basis for its anti-urolithiatic activity has yet to be established. AIM OF THE STUDY: The present study aims to validate the ethnopharmacological use of S. cernuum by investigating its anti-urolithiatic activity associated with its potential to modulate the inflammatory response. Additionally, a chemical characterization of the infusion was performed. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The aqueous leaf infusion was prepared according to traditional use. Anti-urolithiatic activity was assessed in an in vitro human urine model to evaluate calcium oxalate (CaOx) crystal dissolution. Anti-inflammatory potential was investigated via an ex vivo human blood assay stimulated with LPS and calcium ionophore, followed by the assessment of PGE and LTB mediators. The chemical profiling was performed via high-resolution UHPLC-ESI-HRMS in positive ionization mode using a Data-Independent Acquisition (DIA) strategy. RESULTS: The infusion significantly reduced CaOx crystal counts in a dose-dependent manner, reaching an 86.6% reduction at the highest concentration tested (p ≤ 0.05), with efficacy comparable to positive controls. Furthermore, it inhibited the production of PGE (74.8%) and LTB (39.8%), suggesting a dual inhibition of the COX and LOX pathways, showing a more pronounced effect on the COX pathway. Chemical profiling via high-resolution UHPLC-ESI-HRMS led to the annotation of 18 metabolites (level 2, MSI), primarily O-glycosylated flavonoids and other bioactive classes. CONCLUSIONS: These findings provide scientific support for the traditional use of S. cernuum in renal disorders. The dual modulation of inflammatory mediators, combined with high crystal dissolution capacity, indicates that the infusion holds promising potential as a complementary resource for the management of urolithiasis and constitutes a valuable source of bioactive phytochemicals.
Anxiety-related behavioural responses to light-dark transitions in zebrafish larvae treated with a Withaniasomnifera (L.) Dunal water extract and selected withanolides.
Sakoor A, Skalicka-Woźniak K, Budzyńska B … +7 more , Chen W, Agoni C, Sandasi M, Enslin G, Tran SH, Kang K, Viljoen A
J Ethnopharmacol · 2026 Nov · PMID 42285236 · Publisher ↗
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal (Solanaceae) is used traditionally for anxiety; however, the activity of the distilled-water root extract and its major withanolide constituents remains incom...
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal (Solanaceae) is used traditionally for anxiety; however, the activity of the distilled-water root extract and its major withanolide constituents remains incompletely characterised in larval zebrafish. AIM OF THE STUDY: To evaluate the anxiolytic-like effects of a distilled-water root extract and selected withanolides in a larval zebrafish model, and to explore predicted pharmacokinetic properties and putative pharmacodynamic targets of withanolide A using in silico methods. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The root powder was extracted with distilled-water and marker compounds were quantified by UPLC-PDA/MS. Anxiolytic-like effects were evaluated in 5 dpf zebrafish larvae using continuous-light and light-dark transition assays, with locomotor activity and reverse-thigmotaxis as behavioural endpoints. Physicochemical and pharmacokinetic properties of withanolide A, withanone and withaferin A were predicted using SwissADME and PreADMET, and network pharmacology analysis was performed for withanolide A. RESULTS: Withaferin A and withanolide A were detected in the extract; withanone was not detected. The extract showed anxiolytic-like activity at 250 μg/mL by reducing dark-phase locomotor activity and increasing central-zone exploration, with effects comparable to 10 μM diazepam. Withanolide A was the most active pure compound, particularly at 100 μM, where it reduced thigmotaxis without suppressing locomotor activity. In silico profiling predicted favourable drug-likeness and intestinal absorption, but limited blood-brain barrier penetration. Network analysis identified 33 anxiety-related targets, including CRHR1, CYP3A4, NR3C1, GRM5, AR, MAOB and OPRM1. CONCLUSIONS: The findings support the ethnomedicinal use of W. somnifera for anxiety-related conditions and suggest that withanolide A may contribute to these anxiolytic-like effects through putative multi-target mechanisms.
In-vitro, in-vivo, and in-silico investigation of the traditionally used polyherbal combinations of Coptis teeta, Nyctanthes arbor-tristis, and Andrographis paniculata.
Tayeng D, Nath D, Sarma M … +4 more , Roy D, Gogoi N, Chetia D, Zothantluanga JH
J Ethnopharmacol · 2026 Nov · PMID 42276394 · Publisher ↗
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Coptis teeta, Andrographis paniculata, and Nyctanthes arbor-tristis are widely used in herbal remedies for the treatment of various diseases in Southeast Asia. In Arunachal Pradesh, Ind...
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Coptis teeta, Andrographis paniculata, and Nyctanthes arbor-tristis are widely used in herbal remedies for the treatment of various diseases in Southeast Asia. In Arunachal Pradesh, India, these plants are combined by traditional healers to treat malaria. AIM OF THE STUDY: The study aimed to evaluate the antimalarial potential of the traditionally used polyherbal combination through in vitro screening against chloroquine-sensitive (Pf3D7) and chloroquine-resistant (PfRKL9) strains of Plasmodium falciparum, and in vivo antimalarial activity against the P. berghei ANKA strain. The study also aimed to study the molecular interactions of putatively detected phytocompounds against P. falciparum dihydrofolate reductase-thymidylate synthase (PfDHFR-TS) using molecular docking and dynamics simulations. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Taxonomic identification was carried out at the Botanical Survey of India (BSI), Shillong. The cold maceration technique was used to prepare different combinations in different ratios for in-vitro antimalarial screening. Using two concentrations, a preliminary in vitro antimalarial screening was conducted to identify the most potent polyherbal combination. Following this, the most potent combination was subjected to in vitro antimalarial studies, cytotoxicity studies, a blood hemolysis assay, and in vivo studies in P. berghei-infected mice. Liquid chromatography-high-resolution mass spectrometry (LC-HRMS) was performed on the individual extracts to detect putative phytocompounds. In silico studies were done to study the molecular interactions of the putatively identified phytocompounds with PfDHFR-TS. RESULTS: A combination of powdered rhizomes of C. teeta, leaves of N. arbor-tristis, and aerial parts (leaves and young shoots) of A. paniculata in the ratio 5:2:3 was identified as the most potent polyherbal combination against P. falciparum. The cytotoxicity and blood hemolysis assays confirmed that the combination has negligible toxicity and has no hemolytic effect. Acute toxicity studies showed that the LD of the polyherbal combination was greater than 2000 mg/kg body weight. The in-vivo antimalarial study revealed that the polyherbal combination exhibits greater parasite-suppressive activity than the individual extracts but could not outperform the standard drugs. Molecular docking and dynamics simulations revealed that the LC-HRMS-detected compounds (specifically, PubChem CIDs 23786445, 23874507, 38360299, 332427, and 38361380) exhibited stable interactions with PfDHFR-TS and may be one of the contributing factors to the observed antimalarial activity. CONCLUSION: This study reveals that the traditional practice of using polyherbal combinations rather than individual plants yields greater antimalarial activity. The findings of the study encourage the development of an antimalarial polyherbal formulation after performing pharmacokinetic profiling of these specific computational candidates and extended toxicity studies of the combined polyherbal extract.
Xianlian Jiedu Decoction induces apoptosis in colorectal cancer via modulation of sphingosine-1-phosphate-dependent JNK/p38 MAPK signaling.
Meng S, Zhang D, Baokan J … +9 more , Xu C, Tan J, Lai Y, Fan M, Tao L, Li L, Shen W, Li J, Cheng H
J Ethnopharmacol · 2026 Nov · PMID 42276393 · Publisher ↗
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: The Xianlian Jiedu Decoction (XLJDD) is a traditional Chinese medicinal formulation commonly used in the clinical treatment of colorectal cancer (CRC). However, the underlying mechanisms o...
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: The Xianlian Jiedu Decoction (XLJDD) is a traditional Chinese medicinal formulation commonly used in the clinical treatment of colorectal cancer (CRC). However, the underlying mechanisms of its therapeutic effects remain to be fully elucidated. AIM OF THE STUDY: This study aimed to investigate the molecular targets and signaling pathways by which the traditional Chinese medicine compound XLJDD exerted therapeutic effects on CRC. MATERIALS AND METHODS: XLJDD drug-containing serum was prepared and applied to CRC cell lines (HCT116 and HT29), and the optimal concentration was determined using the CCK-8 assay. Apoptosis was evaluated using Hoechst 33342 staining, TUNEL assay, JC-1 assay, and Annexin V-FITC/PI flow cytometry respectively. S1P secretion levels in cell culture supernatants were measured by ELISA. Subcutaneous CT26 mouse tumor models were established and intragastrically administered with the prepared XLJDD decoction. Tumor growth curves were monitored, and final tumor weights were assessed. The tumor tissues were stained with hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) to observe the histopathological changes, while protein expression of Ki-67, Bcl-2, and Caspase-3 was evaluated by immunohistochemistry (IHC). Bulk RNA-seq coupled with transcriptome and GO/KEGG enrichment analyses revealed alterations in key signaling pathways, which were further validated at the protein level by Western blotting. Collectively, these experiments elucidated that XLJDD exerted anti-colorectal cancer effects by regulating MAPK and related apoptotic signaling pathways. RESULTS: XLJDD drug-containing serum significantly suppressed CRC cell viability and promoted apoptosis in a dose-dependent manner. ELISA results showed that XLJDD drug-containing serum reduced sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) levels in CRC cell culture supernatants. In vivo experiments demonstrated that XLJDD-treated tumor-bearing mice exhibited delayed tumor growth, reduced tumor weight, and improved tumor tissue morphology. Moreover, XLJDD suppressed pro-tumorigenic activity of S1P in a dose-dependent manner. Immunohistochemistry and western blot analysis indicated that XLJDD downregulated Ki-67 and Bcl-2 expression, promoted Caspase-3 activation, and inhibited the JNK/p38 MAPK signaling pathway. Bulk RNA-seq transcriptome and pathway enrichment analyses further confirmed that XLJDD suppressed tumor progression by regulating the S1P-mediated JNK/p38 MAPK pathway, providing experimental evidence to support its clinical application. CONCLUSION: The XLJDD suppresses the development and progression of CRC by downregulating S1P levels, modulating the JNK/p38 MAPK signaling pathway, enhancing tumor cell apoptosis.
The Pueraria lobata-Citrus reticulata decoction ameliorates hyperuricemia by modulating urate transporters and suppressing the PI3K/AKT/NF-κB pathway.
Xu L, Yu J, Zhou H … +4 more , Meng H, Jin J, Lv G, Chen S
J Ethnopharmacol · 2026 Nov · PMID 42276392 · Publisher ↗
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Pueraria lobatae-Citrus reticulata Decoction (PLRY) is derived from a modified version of the "Jiawei Jiecheng Decoction" described in the renowned Qing Dynasty text Wai Ke Zheng Zhi Quan...
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Pueraria lobatae-Citrus reticulata Decoction (PLRY) is derived from a modified version of the "Jiawei Jiecheng Decoction" described in the renowned Qing Dynasty text Wai Ke Zheng Zhi Quan Shu. Traditionally, it has been used to treat symptoms such as "severe pain, diffuse joint swelling, and mild redness" associated with gout. Preclinical studies have shown that the combined use of Pueraria and Citrus possesses anti-hyperuricemic effects. However, the specific molecular mechanisms by which PLRY influences hyperuricemia have yet to be completely understood. RESEARCH OBJECTIVES: This investigation sought to evaluate the effectiveness of PLRY against hyperuricemia and to uncover the mechanisms driving its effects. METHODS: The chemical constituents of PLRY were characterized by UPLC-Q-Orbitrap HRMS. Mice were randomized into normal (n = 10), model, BPC, and PLRY (1.5, 2.5, 3.5 g/kg; n = 11 each) groups. A hyperuricemic mouse model was established by oral administration of potassium oxonate and hypoxanthine for 6 weeks to evaluate the effects of PLRY. Network pharmacology was used to predict potential targets and signaling pathways. RT-qPCR, Western blotting, immunohistochemistry, and immunofluorescence were performed to explore the potential anti-hyperuricemic mechanisms of PLRY. RESULTS: UPLC-Q-Orbitrap HRMS identified 32 major chemical constituents in PLRY. PLRY significantly reduced serum uric acid levels in hyperuricemic mice and alleviated HUA-induced renal injury (P < 0.05 or P < 0.01). PLRY downregulated the uric acid reabsorption-related transporters URAT1, GLUT9, and OAT4, while upregulating the uric acid excretion-related transporters OAT1, OAT3, and ABCG2. Network pharmacology prediction and protein validation revealed that PLRY inhibits the PI3K/AKT/NF-κB pathway to alleviate renal inflammation. CONCLUSION: PLRY treatment ameliorates renal and intestinal dysfunction in hyperuricemic mice by promoting uric acid excretion. In addition, PLRY inhibits the PI3K/AKT/NF-κB signaling pathway, thereby alleviating renal inflammation.
Huanglian wendan decoction attenuates hepatic inflammation and lipogenesis via inhibition of the NF-κB/HDAC1/SREBP-1c axis.
Fan W, Zhou F, Song Q … +7 more , Liu L, Huang S, Pan J, Zhang Y, Yang Q, Pan M, Zhang Y
J Ethnopharmacol · 2026 Nov · PMID 42276391 · Publisher ↗
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) is characterized by hepatic steatosis accompanied by persistent inflammation and early fibrotic remodeling. In traditional Chinese m...
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) is characterized by hepatic steatosis accompanied by persistent inflammation and early fibrotic remodeling. In traditional Chinese medicine, Huanglian Wendan Decoction (HLWDD) is prescribed for phlegm-heat and damp-heat syndromes affecting the gallbladder and stomach and is traditionally used to clear heat, dry dampness, and resolve phlegm. It is commonly applied in the treatment of phlegm-heat-related metabolic disorders, including fatty liver disease. However, the therapeutic effects of HLWDD and the contributions of its key constituents to MASH remain to be further elucidated. AIMS OF THE STUDY: This study aimed to evaluate the anti-inflammatory and lipid-regulatory effects of HLWDD and its key components in MASH and to explore the underlying molecular mechanisms. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Male C57BL/6 J mice were given a methionine-choline-deficient (MCD) diet and received HLWDD in either low or high doses through oral gavage, with fenofibrate serving as a positive control. Body weight, liver index, serum levels of alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase, serum lipid profiles, and hepatic triglyceride and total cholesterol contents were among the evaluated parameters. H&E, Oil Red O, and Masson's trichrome staining were used to evaluate histopathological changes. Hepatic macrophage infiltration was examined by immunofluorescence, inflammatory cytokines were measured by ELISA, and key signaling and lipid metabolism-related proteins were analyzed by western blotting. UPLC‒MS/MS was used to characterize the chemical profile of the HLWDD granules and identify their major constituents. Network pharmacology analysis integrating multiple databases, together with GO and KEGG enrichment analyses, was performed to predict potential targets and pathways. Molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations were further used to investigate compound‒target interactions. Cell viability in vitro was measured with CCK-8 assays, protein levels were confirmed through western blotting, and intracellular lipid buildup was assessed using Oil Red O staining. RESULTS: UPLC‒MS/MS analysis revealed that berberine (BBR), an isoquinoline alkaloid, is a major bioactive component of HLWDD. Network pharmacology analysis suggested that HLWDD and BBR may exert anti-MASH effects by modulating multiple targets and pathways, including IL-6, PPARα, and the NF-κB/HDAC1/SREBP-1c axis. These predictions were supported by in vivo experiments, which confirmed the protective effects of HLWDD against MASH. Both in vivo and in vitro studies further revealed that BBR markedly ameliorated MASH-related phenotypes by suppressing the NF-κB/HDAC1/SREBP-1c axis. Additionally, simulations of molecular docking and dynamics revealed stable interactions between BBR and important proteins within this axis. Microscale thermophoresis (MST) assays further demonstrated direct binding of BBR to HDAC1. Collectively, these findings suggest that HLWDD and its key active constituent BBR alleviate MASH, at least in part, by inhibiting the NF-κB/HDAC1/SREBP-1c axis, which is closely associated with inflammatory responses and dysregulated lipogenesis. CONCLUSION: HLWDD markedly ameliorated the MASH phenotype by attenuating hepatic inflammation and lipogenesis, with the NF-κB/HDAC1/SREBP-1c axis emerging as a key mechanism linking inflammatory signaling to aberrant lipid synthesis. BBR, identified by UPLC‒MS/MS as a major active constituent of HLWDD, largely recapitulated these effects and directly bound to HDAC1, supporting its important contribution to the protective effects of HLWDD against MASH.
Gut bacteria inhibited liver tumor growth during Rheum officinale Baill. treatment in mice.
Liu Z, Gong Y, Liu P … +9 more , Wei X, Liu J, Yang R, Zhang Q, Zhu Y, Chen Y, Ding Y, Lan M, Shi X
J Ethnopharmacol · 2026 Nov · PMID 42276390 · Publisher ↗
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Rheum officinale Baill. (Dahuang, DH) was first documented in the Shennong Bencaojing (Shennong's Classic of Materia Medica), and used in traditional Chinese medicine to purge accumulation...
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Rheum officinale Baill. (Dahuang, DH) was first documented in the Shennong Bencaojing (Shennong's Classic of Materia Medica), and used in traditional Chinese medicine to purge accumulation, clear heat, and detoxify. Modern research confirms the anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-tumor properties. However, the anti-tumor mechanisms remained unclear in hepatocellular carcinoma. AIM OF THE STUDY: To investigate the mechanism by which DH inhibits the growth of liver cancer. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Yinchenhao Decoction (YCHD) contains DH, Artemisia capillaris Thunb. (Yinchen, YC), and Gardenia jasminoides Ellis (Zhizi, ZZ). A subcutaneous Hepa1-6 tumor xenograft model was established. Mice were gavaged with YCHD, DH, or YZ (YCHD without DH), and the tumor-suppressive effects were evaluated. Oil Red O staining was performed to detect lipid droplet (LD) accumulation in tumor. 16S rRNA and Internal transcribed spacer region (ITS) sequencing were used to analyze the structures and compositions of bacteria and fungi in the gut, respectively. Periodic acid-schiff (PAS) staining was applied to quantify goblet cell numbers, and immunohistochemistry was conducted to determine the expression levels of Zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1) and Occludin in colon. A pseudo-germ-free model induced by antibiotics water (ATB) was established to investigate whether DH inhibits liver cancer growth through modulation of the gut bacteria. Finally, ultra performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (UPLC/MS) was used to characterize the water extracts of DH, YZ, and YCHD. RESULTS: DH suppressed liver tumor growth in mice, which LD accumulation was decreased in tumor and the structures and compositions of bacteria and fungi were reshaped in gut. Further, DH increased goblet cell numbers and ZO-1 expression level. In a pseudo-germ-free model induced by ATB, DH inhibited liver tumor growth potentially via gut bacteria remodeling. CONCLUSION: DH inhibited liver tumor growth in mice, potentially via gut microbiota remodeling, intestinal barrier improvement, and reduced LD accumulation.
Lusianthridin alleviates inflammatory responses and enhances protective autophagy via downregulation of c-Myc to ameliorate acute lung injury.
Li Y, Li A, Zhang W … +3 more , Zhang J, Li J, Wang Y
J Ethnopharmacol · 2026 Nov · PMID 42276389 · Publisher ↗
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Lusianthridin (Lu) is a natural dihydrophenanthrene compound isolated from medicinal orchids including Bletilla striata Rchb.f. and Dendrobium venustum Teijsm. & Binn., which have been tra...
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Lusianthridin (Lu) is a natural dihydrophenanthrene compound isolated from medicinal orchids including Bletilla striata Rchb.f. and Dendrobium venustum Teijsm. & Binn., which have been traditionally used in East Asian ethnomedicine for the treatment of pulmonary ailments such as cough, hemoptysis, and inflammatory disorders. However, the pharmacological effects and molecular mechanisms of Lu in acute lung injury (ALI) remain unexplored. AIM OF THE STUDY: This study aimed to investigate whether Lu protects against ALI and to identify its molecular mechanism, with a particular focus on the transcription factor c-Myc as a potential therapeutic hub. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The anti-inflammatory and autophagy-modulating effects of Lu were evaluated using CuSO-induced zebrafish, LPS-induced mouse ALI models, and LPS/IFN-γ-stimulated RAW264.7 macrophages. Pulmonary pathology, edema, and inflammatory cytokines were evaluated in LPS-induced mice. NO and ROS levels, protein expression (Western blotting), and autophagic flux were assessed in LPS/IFN-γ-stimulated RAW264.7 cells. Mechanistic studies integrated transcriptomics, molecular docking, molecular dynamics simulations, and genetic knockdown/overexpression approaches (c-Myc siRNA and overexpression plasmids). RESULTS: Lu significantly reduced inflammatory cell migration, pulmonary pathology, edema, and inflammatory cytokine production. Transcriptomics and molecular docking suggested that Lu interacts with the c-Myc/Max heterodimer, downregulating c-Myc expression. This downregulation subsequently inhibited the pro-inflammatory JAK2-STAT1/3 pathway and reduced iNOS and TNF-α expression. Concurrently, Lu relieved c-Myc-mediated suppression of protective autophagy, as evidenced by enhanced p62 degradation, increased LC3B-II conversion, upregulation of the mitophagy marker PINK1, restoration of mitochondrial membrane potential, and reduced BAX/Bcl-2 ratio. Genetic experiments confirmed that c-Myc knockdown phenocopied Lu effects, while c-Myc overexpression abolished Lu-induced protection. CONCLUSION: Both in vitro and in vivo models confirmed that Lu significantly attenuates pulmonary inflammation and injury in a c-Myc-dependent manner. These findings not only elucidate the molecular mechanism of Lu but also validate the ethnopharmacological use of medicinal orchids in pulmonary inflammatory conditions, positioning c-Myc as a promising therapeutic target for ALI intervention.
Molecular mechanisms and therapeutic targets of traditional Chinese Medicine compounds in renal cell carcinoma: A comprehensive narrative review.
Ye Z, Jia M, Tian X … +5 more , Zhou B, Wang C, Lin H, Ma W, Dai R
J Ethnopharmacol · 2026 Nov · PMID 42276388 · Publisher ↗
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Advanced renal cell carcinoma (RCC) often stops responding to targeted drugs, and those drugs can be toxic. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) works differently: it hits many targets at on...
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Advanced renal cell carcinoma (RCC) often stops responding to targeted drugs, and those drugs can be toxic. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) works differently: it hits many targets at once and tries to rebalance the whole body. That makes TCM a plausible add-on, not a replacement. AIM OF THE REVIEW: This review aims to comprehensively summarize and critically appraise the molecular mechanisms by which TCM components and formulas exert anti-RCC activities, focusing on key signaling pathways, non-apoptotic cell death, reversal of drug resistance, and potential synergy with conventional treatments. METHODS: We searched PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, Scopus, and CNKI, covering studies published from January 2015 to January 2026. Search terms included "renal cell carcinoma" (MeSH/title/abstract), "traditional Chinese medicine", "natural product", "phytochemical", and "signaling pathway", applied in Boolean combination. Studies were included if they reported molecular-level mechanistic data for TCM-derived compounds or formulas in RCC cell lines, animal models, or clinical settings; studies reporting only descriptive ethnobotanical data without mechanistic investigation, conference abstracts without full data, or non-peer-reviewed sources were excluded. Due to the heterogeneity of study designs across the included literature, this work is framed as a comprehensive narrative review rather than a formal systematic review, and findings should be interpreted accordingly. RESULTS: TCM-derived compounds inhibit RCC proliferation by modulating the PI3K/AKT/mTOR, MAPK/ERK, and NF-κB pathways. They also induce ferroptosis and necroptosis, reverse sunitinib resistance, and enhance anti-PD-L1 immunotherapy. TCM formulas target hub genes such as CCND1, PTGS2, and ABCG2. However, most studies lack pharmacokinetic data and rigorous clinical validation. CONCLUSION: TCM acts as a multi-target network modulator against RCC. That could help overcome drug resistance and improve current therapies. Future research should focus on chemical standardization, pharmacokinetic profiling, and biomarker-driven clinical trials.
Phytochemical characterization, molecular docking, and protective efficacy of Cleome droserifolia against cisplatin-induced testicular toxicity.
Alqahtani MJ, El-Sherbeni SA, Negm WA … +7 more , Elekhnawy E, Ibrahim S, Hussein IA, Alanzi AR, Ahmed R, Balaha M, El-Kadem AH
J Ethnopharmacol · 2026 Nov · PMID 42276387 · Publisher ↗
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Cleome droserifolia (CD) has been employed traditionally by the Egyptians inhabiting desert for hyperglycemia treatment. AIM OF THE STUDY: We aimed to evaluate the capability of CD to less...
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Cleome droserifolia (CD) has been employed traditionally by the Egyptians inhabiting desert for hyperglycemia treatment. AIM OF THE STUDY: We aimed to evaluate the capability of CD to lessen the detrimental consequences of cisplatin (CP) on testis. METHODS: CD phytoconstituents were studied by LC-ESI-MS/MS. The in vivo study involved four groups of forty male rats. Group I had a normal saline intraperitoneal (IP) injection daily; groups II, III, and IV had a single IP injection of 7 mg/kg of CP. Groups III and IV were orally administered 100 and 200 mg/kg of CD, respectively. They were treated daily for 10 days, and a single dose of IP injection of CP was taken on the third day. RESULTS: The LC-ESI-MS/MS exposed presence of 33 different compounds in CD. Also, CD at 200 mg/kg considerably reestablished the testicular weight loss and serum testosterone in CP-treated rats. Treatment with CD improved the antioxidant capabilities via downregulating malondialdehyde and increasing catalase and glutathione peroxidase activity as well as nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 immunostaining. It exerted a significant anti-inflammatory action via its decreasing effect on nuclear factor kappa beta immunostaining, and testicular level of tumor necrosis factor-α. Moreover, it exhibited an anti-apoptotic effect by downregulation of p53 and caspase-3, besides enhancing the B-cell lymphoma 2 immunostaining. In addition, molecular docking studies revealed that the major phytochemicals in CD had favorable binding affinities to the key proteins of apoptosis. CONCLUSION: CD demonstrated promising antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic properties.
Influence of inhalation exposure to biogenic volatile organic compounds from Syringa oblata flowers on behavior, spatial working memory, and hematological parameters in mice.
Tuo Y, Yang S, Dai X … +3 more , Wu Y, Bai YE, Bao W
J Ethnopharmacol · 2026 Nov · PMID 42276386 · Publisher ↗
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Syringa oblata Lindl. emits a variety of biogenic volatile organic compounds (BVOCs) during full bloom, which forms the key chemical basis for its characteristic floral scent. Species of t...
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Syringa oblata Lindl. emits a variety of biogenic volatile organic compounds (BVOCs) during full bloom, which forms the key chemical basis for its characteristic floral scent. Species of the genus Syringa have a background of use in traditional medicine and Mongolian medicine, and aromatic plant-derived BVOCs are also relevant to studies on forest bathing, horticultural health, and non-invasive inhalation exposure. However, experimental evidence remains limited regarding the effects of naturally emitted BVOCs from S. oblata flowers and their representative terpene monomers on animal behavior, spatial working memory-related performance, and peripheral hematological parameters. AIM OF THE STUDY: This study aimed to preliminarily evaluate the effects of inhalation exposure to S. oblata flower-derived BVOCs and representative terpene monomers on locomotor behavior, exploratory behavior, spatial working memory-related performance, and routine hematological parameters in male mice, thereby providing exploratory experimental evidence for the biological assessment of S. oblata flower-derived BVOCs. MATERIALS AND METHODS: BVOCs emitted from S. oblata flowers at full bloom were collected and identified using dynamic headspace sampling combined with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Mice were randomly assigned to five groups: a blank control group, an outdoor S. oblata garden exposure group, an indoor α-farnesene exposure group, an indoor limonene exposure group, and an indoor linalool exposure group. The outdoor group was exposed continuously to the S. oblata garden environment for 7 days, whereas the indoor monomer groups received controlled inhalation exposure for 1 h per day for 7 consecutive days. After exposure, body weight change, spontaneous locomotor activity, rearing frequency, defecation output, Y-maze spontaneous alternation, and routine hematological parameters were assessed. RESULTS: BVOCs emitted from S. oblata flowers mainly included aldehydes, terpenoids, and aromatic compounds. Limonene, α-farnesene, and linalool represented monoterpene hydrocarbons, sesquiterpene hydrocarbons, and oxygenated monoterpene alcohols, respectively. Behavioral assessments showed that S. oblata-related exposure was associated with changes in locomotor and exploratory behaviors. In the indoor α-farnesene, limonene, and linalool exposure groups, spontaneous locomotor activity and rearing behavior decreased to varying degrees. In contrast, Y-maze spontaneous alternation did not show an obvious decrease in any exposure group compared with the control group. Hematological analysis indicated compound-specific changes in peripheral blood parameters. In particular, the limonene exposure group showed a significant decrease in WBC, while RBC, HGB, and HCT showed numerical increases. The α-farnesene group was mainly characterized by reduced spontaneous locomotor activity and rearing behavior, together with a decrease in WBC and a tendency toward increased PLT. The linalool group also exhibited partial behavioral and hematological changes. CONCLUSION: Short-term inhalation exposure to S. oblata flower-derived BVOCs and their representative terpene monomers affected locomotor and exploratory behaviors in male mice, while no evident impairment of spatial working memory-related performance was observed. The limonene exposure group showed a significant decrease in WBC, while RBC, HGB, and HCT showed numerical increases without being interpreted as evidence of erythropoiesis. α-farnesene, a relatively less-studied sesquiterpene monomer, may serve as an exploratory candidate for subsequent dose-response and mechanistic studies.
San Wei Tan Xiang (SWTX) ameliorates depressive-like behaviors by modulating 6-phosphogluconate dehydrogenase (6PGD) activity in mice.
Ling Y, Gu L, Feng S … +7 more , Dong M, Li L, Zhang X, Zhang X, Ma R, Chen M, Tong L
J Ethnopharmacol · 2026 Jun · PMID 42276385 · Publisher ↗
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: San Wei Tan Xiang (SWTX), known as Zandansong Tang in Tibetan medicine, is recorded in the Four Medical Classics and is commonly used in Tibetan medicine. Recently, it has been found to ex...
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: San Wei Tan Xiang (SWTX), known as Zandansong Tang in Tibetan medicine, is recorded in the Four Medical Classics and is commonly used in Tibetan medicine. Recently, it has been found to exhibit good therapeutic efficacy in patients with depression. AIM OF THE STUDY: This study aims to assess the therapeutic benefits of SWTX for depression and to elucidate the underlying mechanism whereby SWTX improves depressive-like behavior via regulation of 6-phosphogluconate dehydrogenase (6PGD). MATERIALS AND METHODS: A depression model was established via corticosterone (CORT) stimulation, followed by treatment with San Wei Tan Xiang (SWTX). Behavioral tests were conducted to evaluate emotional changes, while Nissl staining and ELISA were employed to assess histopathological alterations and biochemical indices, respectively. 6PGD activity was measured using commercial enzyme activity assay kits. Protein expression levels were analyzed by immunofluorescence and western blotting. Furthermore, oxidative stress status in mouse brain was evaluated through malondialdehyde, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione assays, along with ROS levels using flow cytometry. RESULTS: SWTX exhibited significant antidepressant activity in a mouse model of depressive-like behavior by activating 6PGD to restore cerebral redox homeostasis. This activation enhanced pentose phosphate pathway (PPP) metabolism and NADPH generation, consequently ameliorating mitochondrial function and attenuating mitophagy. In addition, the potential active ingredient in SWTX, naringenin, is associated with increasing 6PGD activity and promoting NADPH biosynthesis, thereby restoring redox homeostasis, maintaining mitochondrial integrity, and thus weakening the compensatory upregulation of mitochondria mediated by PINK1/Parkin. Through molecular docking and Bio-Layer Interferometry (BLI) assays, we identified naringenin as a potential bioactive component in the therapeutic effects of SWTX. Naringenin also demonstrated beneficial effects in investigating mitochondrial damage caused by oxidative stress due to 6PGD downregulation and excessive activation of PINK1/PARK2/Parkin. Therefore, naringenin may be one of the active components responsible for the antidepressant effects of SWTX. CONCLUSIONS: SWTX ameliorates depressive-like behaviors by coordinating 6PGD activity and mitochondrial function, including restoring NADPH generation via the PPP to alleviate oxidative stress, and improving mitochondrial quality through the PARK2/Parkin/PINK1 pathway. These findings highlight SWTX as a promising holistic therapeutic approach for depression, reflecting the multi-component and multi-target pharmacological characteristics of traditional formulations. Further exploratory analysis suggested that naringenin, one of the SWTX-derived absorbable constituents, may contribute to 6PGD/NADPH pathway regulation and neuronal protection in CORT-treated primary hippocampal neurons. However, the naringenin-related results should be interpreted cautiously because additional pharmacokinetic, dose-response, and direct structural validation studies are required.
Corrigendum to "Tongfu-Xingshen capsule ameliorates ischemic stroke by inhibiting pyroptosis-mediated neuroinflammation" [J. Ethnopharmacol. 366 (2026) 121565].
Lv QH, Hu T, Xu JP … +10 more , Xu XY, Ouyang J, Wu D, Du X, Qiu YH, Zheng JY, Guan L, Wu GL, Zhang SJ, Cai YF
J Ethnopharmacol · 2026 Jun · PMID 42270493 · Publisher ↗
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Corrigendum to "Naoxinqing tablet protects against cerebral ischemic/reperfusion injury by regulating ampkα/NAMPT/SIRT1/PGC-1α pathway" [J. Ethnopharmacol. 322 (2024) 117672].
Sun X, Pan Y, Luo Y … +5 more , Guo H, Zhang Z, Wang D, Li C, Sun X
J Ethnopharmacol · 2026 Nov · PMID 42270492 · Publisher ↗
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Qishen Yiqi dripping pills alleviate myocardial ischemia-reperfusion-induced fibrotic injury by inhibiting fibroblast activation via the transforming growth factor-beta/Periostin pathway.
Ge T, Hu J, Lin B … +10 more , Yang L, Ning B, Bo J, Ju J, He K, Li G, Wang C, Zou R, Qi H, Fan X
J Ethnopharmacol · 2026 Nov · PMID 42269799 · Publisher ↗
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Qishen Yiqi Dripping Pills (QSYQ), composed of Astragalus membranaceus Fisch. ex Bunge, Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge, Panax notoginseng (Burkill) F.H.Chen, Dalbergia odorifera T.C.Chen have b...
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Qishen Yiqi Dripping Pills (QSYQ), composed of Astragalus membranaceus Fisch. ex Bunge, Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge, Panax notoginseng (Burkill) F.H.Chen, Dalbergia odorifera T.C.Chen have been included in the Pharmacopoeia of the People's Republic of China and are known to alleviate myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury. However, whether QSYQ regulates transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β)/Periostin (Postn) signaling to inhibit fibroblast activation remains unclear. AIM OF THE STUDY: Pathological repair following myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury (MIRI) is driven by the TGF-β/Postn signaling axis. Targeted modulation of this process may represent a potential pathway for antifibrotic therapy. In this study, we integrated multi-omics analyses with experimental validation to systematically elucidate that QSYQ reverses fibroblast activation by targeting the TGF-β/Postn axis, thereby ameliorating fibrotic remodeling associated with MIRI. MATERIALS AND METHODS BIOINFORMATICS ANALYSIS: By integrating single-cell and transcriptomic data, along with network pharmacology and Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO), potential targets of QSYQ against MIRI were identified. Molecular dynamics simulations were then employed to predict the binding affinity between QSYQ components and these potential targets. EXPERIMENTS: In vivo, C57BL/6N mice orally received QSYQ before MIRI surgery. Cardiac function was assessed by echocardiography and cTnT, myocardial pathology by Masson staining, the protein levels of TGF-β/Postn and the expression of Alpha smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and Collagen Type I alpha 1 Chain (COL1A1) were assessed by immunofluorescence or Western blotting. In vitro, HL-1 cells were treated with QSYQ-containing serum; cytotoxicity was measured by Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8), and the effect on SRI-011381 intervention was evaluated. RESULTS: Single-cell sequencing and transcriptomic data indicated that activated fibroblasts were significantly increased after MIRI, and that Postn serves as a potential target driving the transition of fibroblasts toward an activated phenotype. Network pharmacology and molecular dynamics simulations further demonstrated that the circulating components of QSYQ, Calycosin-7-O-β-D-glucoside and Notoginsenoside R2, exhibit favorable binding affinities for both TGF-β and Postn. In vivo and in vitro experiments confirmed that QSYQ improves cardiac function, alleviates pathological myocardial injury, and reduces the protein expression levels of TGF-β, Postn, α-SMA, and COL1A1 following MIRI. CONCLUSION: The alleviation of fibrosis by QSYQ following MIRI may be associated with the regulation of the TGF-β/Postn signaling pathway.
Qishen paste improves cardiac conduction in heart failure by regulating cardiac resident macrophage Connexin43.
Liu J, Min S, Tao M … +5 more , Wang N, Ouyang Y, Wang W, Li C, Zhang Y
J Ethnopharmacol · 2026 Nov · PMID 42269798 · Publisher ↗
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Heart failure (HF) is a complex clinical syndrome characterized by significant cardiac electrical conduction disturbances. Qishen paste (QSP), a modern herbal formulation consisting of the...
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Heart failure (HF) is a complex clinical syndrome characterized by significant cardiac electrical conduction disturbances. Qishen paste (QSP), a modern herbal formulation consisting of the dried root of Astragalus membranaceus (Fisch.) Bge. (Fabaceae), the dried root and rhizome of Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge (Lamiaceae), the processed lateral root of Aconitum carmichaelii Debeaux (Ranunculaceae), the dried root of Scrophularia ningpoensis Hemsl. (Scrophulariaceae), the dried flower bud of Lonicera japonica Thunb. (Caprifoliaceae), and the dried root and rhizome of Glycyrrhiza uralensis Fisch. ex DC. (Fabaceae), has shown therapeutic efficacy in HF, but its mechanisms in regulating immune homeostasis and electrical conduction remain unclear. AIM OF THE STUDY: This study aims to evaluate the therapeutic effect of QSP on HF from the perspective of immune homeostasis and electrical conduction. MATERIALS AND METHODS: HF was induced in mice by left anterior descending coronary artery (LAD) ligation. After treatment with QSP, cardiac structure and function were assessed in each group. Electrical conduction was monitored by electrocardiography, a multi-channel electrical mapping system, and microelectrode arrays. Network pharmacology and RNA-seq were used to predict potential mechanisms. Flow cytometry, Western blot, quantitative real-time PCR, and immunofluorescence were employed to detect the proportion of cardiac resident macrophages (RCMs) and the expression of connexin43 (Cx43) in HF mice. RESULTS: QSP improved cardiac function, inflammation and fibrosis, and electrophysiological abnormalities in HF mice. In macrophage-cardiomyocyte (CM) co-cultures, it improved repolarization parameters, with Cx43 as a key target. In vivo experiments confirmed that QSP upregulated Cx43 expression in RCMs. CONCLUSIONS: QSP ameliorates HF by enhancing cardiac conduction through modulating Cx43 in RCMs, highlighting the therapeutic promise of targeting RCM-CM electrical coupling. However, future validation using multiple batches of QSP is required to confirm the reproducibility of these results.
Mechanistic insights into the gastroprotective and anti-Helicobacter pylori effects of novel Smyrnium olusatrum extracts through NF-κB, IBA1, and COX-2 modulation.
Terbeche M, Deramchia N, Amari NO … +6 more , Pachura-Hanusek N, Szumny A, Ouadah K, Zawilak-Pawlik A, Muraszko J, Moos T
J Ethnopharmacol · 2026 Jun · PMID 42269797 · Publisher ↗
ETHNOBOTANICAL RELEVANCE: Smyrnium olusatrum L. (Apiaceae), commonly known as Alexanders, has been traditionally used in Mediterranean ethnomedicine to alleviate digestive disorders, gastric discomfort, and inflammatory...
ETHNOBOTANICAL RELEVANCE: Smyrnium olusatrum L. (Apiaceae), commonly known as Alexanders, has been traditionally used in Mediterranean ethnomedicine to alleviate digestive disorders, gastric discomfort, and inflammatory conditions. However, its gastroprotective and anti-Helicobacter pylori properties have not yet been scientifically investigated. Given that oxidative stress and inflammation play pivotal roles in peptic ulcer pathogenesis and aggravate H. pylori-induced mucosal damage, investigating traditionally used gastrointestinal remedies such as S. olusatrum is particularly relevant. AIM OF THE STUDY: This study evaluated the gastroprotective and anti-H. pylori activities of S. olusatrum extracts and investigated their underlying anti-inflammatory mechanisms. METHODS: Gastroprotection was assessed in rats through ulcer index determination, gastric secretion analysis, and histological examination. To elucidate the mechanisms underlying the observed gastroprotective effects, immunofluorescence targeting nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) and ionized calcium-binding adaptor molecule 1 (IBA1) was performed. Major phytoconstituents identified by LC-MS/MS were further subjected to molecular docking against NF-κB and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2). Additionally, an in vitro anti-H. pylori activity was assessed. RESULTS: Both extracts exhibited significant dose-dependent gastroprotection (p < 0.001), with the highest doses reducing ulcer indices to 5.96% ± 5.37 (root extract) and 0.70% ± 0.39 (seed extract), preserving mucosal architecture, minimizing edema, and decreasing neutrophil infiltration. NF-κB nuclear translocation and IBA1-positive macrophage recruitment were significantly suppressed (p < 0.001). Docking analysis suggested favorable binding affinities of myricetin and luteolin toward NF-κB and COX-2. The seed extract showed selective anti-H. pylori activity, whereas the root extract was inactive. CONCLUSION: These findings provide experimental support for the traditional gastrointestinal use of S. olusatrum, highlighting its potential as a promising ethnopharmacological candidate for ulcer management.
Shuangpi formula treats neutrophilic asthma via circadian-mediated anti-inflammatory mechanisms.
Kong S, Yang Z, Hao L … +8 more , Ji S, Li B, Li M, Gong W, Qin X, Zhao S, Li Q, Dai Y
J Ethnopharmacol · 2026 Nov · PMID 42264447 · Publisher ↗
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Neutrophilic asthma (NA) is a severe treatment-resistant phenotype characterized by neutrophilic airway inflammation, for which effective therapeutic interventions are currently lacking. S...
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Neutrophilic asthma (NA) is a severe treatment-resistant phenotype characterized by neutrophilic airway inflammation, for which effective therapeutic interventions are currently lacking. Shuangpi Formula (SP) is an optimized formula derived from Xiebaisan, a classical prescription first recorded in Xiao'er Yaozheng Zhijue (A.D. 1119, Song Dynasty). According to this canonical text, Xiebaisan is indicated for "lung heat with wheezing and cough" - symptoms that directly correspond to the clinical manifestations of NA. However, its efficacy on NA and the underlying mechanisms remain unexplored. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to investigate the therapeutic effects of SP on NA and to explore the underlying mechanisms. MATERIALS AND METHODS: NA was induced in rats by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and ovalbumin (OVA). SP was administered, and its effects were assessed by measuring asthmatic latency, leukocyte counts and inflammatory cytokine levels in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF), and myeloperoxidase (MPO) expression in lung tissues. Transcriptomic analysis identified differentially expressed genes, with nuclear receptor subfamily 1 group D member 1 (NR1D1) upregulation confirmed by quantitative reverse transcription PCR (qRT-PCR) and immunofluorescence. Molecular docking evaluated binding affinities between NR1D1 and the main systemically absorbed bioactive components of SP. In vitro, the role of NR1D1 in SP's anti-inflammatory effects was examined using a pharmacological inhibitor. RESULTS: SP treatment significantly prolonged asthmatic latency, reduced leukocyte counts and inflammatory cytokine levels in BALF, and decreased MPO expression in lung tissues. These effects were superior to those of dexamethasone, without the adverse effects observed with dexamethasone. Transcriptomic analysis revealed marked upregulation of NR1D1, validated by qRT-PCR and immunofluorescence. Molecular docking indicated strong binding affinities between NR1D1 and several SP components, including Liquiritin, Glycyrrhizic acid, Oxyresveratrol, Mulberroside A, Glycyrrhetinic acid, and Kukoamine B. Importantly, pharmacological inhibition of NR1D1 abolished SP's regulatory effects on chemokine (Chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 2) and inflammatory cytokines (interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor-α) in vitro. CONCLUSION: SP inhibits neutrophilic inflammation in NA, with evidence implicating NR1D1 as a key regulator. Pharmacological modulation of NR1D1 may represent a potential therapeutic approach for NA, although further genetic validation is required.
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