Article
Medicine, Research & Experimental
Huiqin Wang, Xueying Yang, Huaqing Lai, Yang Sun, Xu Yan, Qidi Ai, Meiyu Lin, Songwei Yang, Yantao Yang, Shifeng Chu, Zhenzhen Wang, Naihong Chen
Summary: Hypericin repaired the dysfunction of gap junctions in the chronic unpredictable stress (CUS) rat model of depression. While hypericin showed potential for treating depression in in vivo experiments, it failed to demonstrate antidepressant benefits in cell experiments. This study suggests that gap junctional function may be a novel therapeutic target for hypericin in the treatment of depression.
BIOMEDICINE & PHARMACOTHERAPY
(2023)
Article
Agriculture, Multidisciplinary
Ying-Xin Zhao, Yi-Xi Tang, Xiao-Han Sun, Shi-Yong Zhu, Xue-Yan Dai, Xue-Nan Li, Jin-Long Li
Summary: This study utilized an in vivo model of neurotoxicity in quail to investigate the effects of DEHP exposure on astrocytes. The results revealed that DEHP exposure resulted in phosphorylation and translocation of Cx43 in astrocytes. Additionally, the study showed that DEHP exposure induced pro-inflammatory status and autophagosome formation in astrocytes. These findings provide valuable insights into the mechanisms of neurodegeneration caused by DEHP exposure and suggest a potential therapeutic target for its treatment.
JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY
(2022)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Shreyas B. Rao, Nadia Skauli, Nenad Jovanovic, Shirin Katoozi, Antonio Frigeri, Stanley C. Froehner, Marvin E. Adams, Ole Petter Ottersen, Mahmood Amiry-Moghaddam
Summary: The study reveals the interdependence between astrocytic AQP4 and gap junctions, with limited impact on AQP4 isoform expression from deletion of beta 1-syntrophin, but with increased astrocytic gap junctions from double knockout of alpha 1- and beta 1-syntrophin. It highlights the importance of syntrophins in organizing specialized functional domains of brain astrocytes.
BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-BIOMEMBRANES
(2021)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Akshata A. Almad, Arens Taga, Jessica Joseph, Sarah K. Gross, Connor Welsh, Aneesh Patankar, Jean -Philippe Richard, Khalil Rust, Aayush Pokharel, Caroline Plott, Mauricio Lillo, Raha Dastgheyb, Kevin Eggan, Norman Haughey, Jorge E. Contreras, Nicholas J. Maragakis
Summary: This study demonstrates that Cx43 hemichannels play a role in the progression of ALS by mediating astrocyte communication and that blocking these channels can provide neuroprotection for motor neurons. Additionally, Cx43 expression is up-regulated in ALS patients' tissue and cerebrospinal fluid.
PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL ACADEMY OF SCIENCES OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
(2022)
Article
Neurosciences
Xinyu Wang, Chuan Jiang, Chunli Lu, Longbing Ma, Yuxin Feng, Shengyu Cui, Qian Li, Kang Li, Xiang Wang, Fengzeng Jian
Summary: In this study, changes in the number and morphology of ependymal cilia in a syringomyelia rat model were investigated. The results showed a decline in cilia during the early stage of the disease, leading to disrupted intercellular communication. In the later stage, cilia were further reduced due to shear stress exposure, causing a potential mechanism of ependymal cilia decline in syringomyelia development.
EXPERIMENTAL NEUROLOGY
(2023)
Review
Cell Biology
Andrew M. Boal, Michael L. Risner, Melissa L. Cooper, Lauren K. Wareham, David J. Calkins
Summary: Astrocytes play a crucial role in responding to neurodegenerative stress and are interconnected through gap junctions, primarily composed of connexin-43 (Cx43), forming a broader network. This network contributes to various important processes and is likely to influence the progression of neurodegenerative diseases. Targeting these networks may be critical in the treatment of glaucomatous neurodegeneration and other optic neuropathies.
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Daniel Rodjakovic, Lilian Salm, Guido Beldi
Summary: Recent studies have shown that Connexin-43 plays important roles in macrophages, including migration, antigen-presentation, intercellular communication, electrochemical support, and immunomodulation. Dysregulation of Cx43 has been described in diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease, tumors, and HIV. However, its involvement in other macrophage functions and inflammatory processes requires further research.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2021)
Article
Plant Sciences
Jin Kyeong Kim, Kon Kuk Shin, Haeyeop Kim, Yo Han Hong, Wooram Choi, Yi-Seong Kwak, Chang-Kyun Han, Sun Hee Hyun, Jae Youl Cho
Summary: The study revealed that Korean Red Ginseng water extract has anti-inflammatory effects and can promote autophagy in aged mice by reducing the expression of inflammation-related genes and increasing the expression of autophagy-related genes.
JOURNAL OF GINSENG RESEARCH
(2021)
Review
Cell Biology
Lan Lei, Ya-Ting Wang, Die Hu, Cong Gai, Yi Zhang
Summary: Major depression disorder (MDD) is a neuropsychiatric disorder associated with high suicide and disability rates. The pathology of MDD is related to astrocyte dysfunction, specifically the expression and function of connexin 43 (Cx43). Neuroinflammation is also a key factor in depression pathology, and Cx43 is believed to be involved in neuroinflammation-related depression. The specific mechanism of Cx43-mediated functions in neuroinflammation-related depression pathology is still unknown.
CELLULAR AND MOLECULAR NEUROBIOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Cell Biology
Weiqi Zeng, Zhizhao Deng, Yingxin Gao, Guoliang Sun, Xianlong Li, Dongdong Yuan
Summary: Long-term exposure to Ang II significantly enhances the expression and function of Cx43-GJs in HUASMCs, leading to the accumulation of intracellular Ca2+ and the activation of downstream signaling pathways. However, propofol inhibits the function of Cx43-GJs in Ang II-pretreated HUASMCs, resulting in the inhibition of intracellular Ca2+ and its downstream signaling pathways and ultimately excessive relaxation of HUASMCs. This explains why patients with chronic hypertension experience more severe blood pressure fluctuations after propofol induction.
CELL COMMUNICATION AND SIGNALING
(2023)
Article
Biology
Filippo Torrisi, Cristiana Alberghina, Debora Lo Furno, Agata Zappala, Samuel Valable, Giovanni Li Volti, Daniele Tibullo, Nunzio Vicario, Rosalba Parenti
Summary: Manipulating the sonic hedgehog pathway to affect connexin 43 expression can regulate cell migration and proliferation in glioblastoma, potentially offering a new therapeutic strategy.
Article
Clinical Neurology
Ting-Ting Yang, Feng Qian, Lian Liu, Xiao-Chun Peng, Jiang-Rong Huang, Bo-Xu Ren, Feng-Ru Tang
Summary: The astroglial network formed through gap junctions balanced the concentrations of ions and neurotransmitters around neurons. Dissociated gap junctions can lead to increased connexin hemichannel activity, triggering brain pathophysiological changes. Studies suggest that decreased connexin hemichannel coupling in astrocytes may play a key role in epileptogenesis.
SEIZURE-EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF EPILEPSY
(2021)
Article
Plant Sciences
Ji-Hyun Min, Hui-Jin Cho, Young-Su Yi
Summary: The study demonstrates the anti-inflammatory effects of Korean Red Ginseng (KRG) on caspase-11 non-canonical inflammasome activation in macrophages during triggering of inflammatory responses. KRG reduces NO production, suppresses pyroptosis and IL-113 secretion, and inhibits proteolytic cleavage of caspase-11 and gasdermin D. In addition, KRG ameliorates LPS-mediated lethal septic shock in mice.
JOURNAL OF GINSENG RESEARCH
(2022)
Article
Cell Biology
Deheng Li, Liangdong Li, Xin Chen, Changshuai Zhou, Bin Hao, Yiqun Cao
Summary: The study showed that lncRNA-CCRR up-regulated CX43 expression and promoted gap junction formation in brain metastasis of breast cancer. Moreover, CX43 expression was significantly lower in MDA-MB-231WT cells compared with MDA-MB-231BR cells.
JOURNAL OF CELLULAR AND MOLECULAR MEDICINE
(2021)
Article
Physiology
Aya Yamada, Keigo Yoshizaki, Masaki Ishikawa, Kan Saito, Yuta Chiba, Emiko Fukumoto, Ryoko Hino, Seira Hoshikawa, Mitsuki Chiba, Takashi Nakamura, Tsutomu Iwamoto, Satoshi Fukumoto
Summary: Connexin 43 (Cx43) is an integral membrane protein that plays a crucial role in tooth development, regulating intercellular communication through gap junction activity by modulating TGF-beta 1-mediated ERK signaling and enamel formation.
FRONTIERS IN PHYSIOLOGY
(2021)
Correction
Plant Sciences
Lingmiao Wen, Tinglan Zhang, Fangfang Chen, Lin Hu, Chongyang Dou, Xian Ding, Alvin Altamirano, Guihua Wei, Zhiyong Yan
JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY
(2024)
Article
Plant Sciences
Qing Tang, Mengfei Xu, Shunqin Long, Yaya Yu, Changju Ma, Rui Wang, Jing Li, Xi Wang, Fang Fang, Ling Han, Wanyin Wu, Sumei Wang
Summary: This study demonstrates that Fuzheng Kang-Ai (FZKA) decoction can inhibit the cell growth, proliferation, and invasion of lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) and reverse the acquired resistance of gefitinib. FZKA exerts its effects by regulating the p-ERK1/2-EZH2-Snail/EGFR signaling pathway.
JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY
(2024)
Article
Plant Sciences
Xiang Zhao, Xianrun Hu, Qi Xie, Shenglan Qi, Zedong Xiang, Xin Sun, Zhejun Xie, Rui Dang, Limei Zhou, Wei Liu, Xuemei Cheng, Changhong Wang
Summary: This study investigated the effects of Fufangmuniziqi formula (FFMN) on Alzheimer's disease (AD) and the role of alkaloids, flavonoids, and saponins in the process. The results showed that FFMN improved cognitive and memory impairment in the AD mouse model. Alkaloids enhanced the cholinergic system, while flavonoids and saponins attenuated neuroinflammation and oxidative stress. These findings suggest that the combination of alkaloid, flavonoid, and saponin fractions derived from FFMN is a promising anti-AD agent.
JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY
(2024)
Article
Plant Sciences
Bangjian Dong, Ying Peng, Mengyue Wang, Chongsheng Peng, Xiaobo Li
Summary: This study elucidated the tissue distribution and excretion characteristics of the non-polysaccharide components of Sijunzi decoction in rats with spleen deficiency syndrome. It proposed new insights into the rationality of the compatibility of Sijunzi decoction.
JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY
(2024)
Article
Plant Sciences
Jung-Seop Kim, Man-Gi Kim, Ji Eun Ryu, Ye-Been Lee, Quan Feng Liu, Kwang Ki Kim, Seung-Hun Cho, Sung Joon Shin, Byung-Soo Koo, Hyung-Kyoon Choi
Summary: Co-treatment with WCW and donepezil shows promise in improving cognitive function and serum metabolic profiles in a scopolamine-induced AD model. This combination therapy may reduce tyrosine and methionine levels, enhancing cognitive function by mitigating known risk factors for AD. The study provides a foundation for developing other bioactive compounds in AD treatment.
JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY
(2024)
Article
Plant Sciences
Kuang-Hsing Chiang, Tain-Junn Cheng, Wei-Chih Kan, Hsien-Yi Wang, Jui-Chen Li, Yan-Ling Cai, Chia-Hui Cheng, Yi-Chien Liu, Chia-Yu Chang, Jiunn-Jye Chuu
Summary: The ethanolic extract of Orthosiphon aristatus (OA) demonstrated an improving effect on memory and could serve as a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's disease (AD).
JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY
(2024)
Article
Plant Sciences
Meryem Tourabi, Asmae EL Ghouizi, Ghizlane Nouioura, Khaoula Faiz, Hind Elfatemi, Karima El-yagoubi, Badiaa Lyoussi, Elhoussine Derwich
Summary: Mentha longifolia is a native plant in Morocco, traditionally used to treat various diseases. This study analyzed the phytochemical profile of the aqueous extract of M. longifolia and evaluated its acute and subacute toxicity in mice. The results showed that M. longifolia extract is rich in phenolic compounds and has no observed toxicity up to a certain dosage limit.
JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY
(2024)
Article
Plant Sciences
Yue Zhang, Liang Li, Tao Chai, Han Xu, Hong-yan Du, Yan Jiang
Summary: Mulberry leaf multi-components (MMC) have hypoglycemic effects and can improve insulin resistance by activating the PI-3K/Akt signaling pathway. These findings highlight the multi-component, multi-target, and combined effects of MMC, and suggest it may be further developed as a hypoglycemic drug.
JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY
(2024)
Correction
Plant Sciences
Shan Luo, Yuanchun Chen, Ruoxi Zhao, Donglai Ma, Yanmeng Zhao, Ying Zhang, Jianming Jiang, Wentao Yu
JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY
(2024)
Article
Plant Sciences
Nittaya Chansiw, Pattranuch Chusri, Siwaporn Praman, Thaneeya Hawiset, Wannisa Sukhorum, Sorraya Champakam, Rawiwan Charoensup
Summary: This study evaluates the anti-inflammatory activity of Prabchompoothaweep (PCT) extract in an animal model. The results show that PCT significantly reduces inflammation and pro-inflammatory cytokines in acute and sub-acute inflammation. These findings suggest that PCT could be a new option for the treatment of inflammatory diseases.
JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY
(2024)
Article
Plant Sciences
Yanting Wang, Guoqiang Liang, Wei Mu, Shu Sun, Xuanyi Chen, Xiaofeng Xu
Summary: Bushen Tianjing Recipe (BTR) is a tonic-kidney formula of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) with good therapeutic effects in clinical settings. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of BTR on women's reproductive system by incubating miR-23a-induced KGN cells.
JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY
(2024)
Article
Plant Sciences
Jiayi Zhi, Li Yin, Zhoudong Zhang, Yaozhong Lv, Fan Wu, Yang Yang, Enming Zhang, Huanqiu Li, Ning Lu, Mengze Zhou, Qinghua Hu
Summary: This study verified the pharmacodynamics of JSW in the treatment of AD and explored its potential mechanism using network pharmacology, molecular docking, and experimental validation.
JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY
(2024)
Review
Plant Sciences
Elizabeth Syowai Mutinda, Dong-Juan Zhang, Felix Wambua Muema, Elijah Mbandi Mkala, Emmanuel Nyongesa Waswa, Wyclif Ochieng Odago, Clintone Onyango Ochieng, Moses Kirega Gichua, John Kamau Muchuku, Elizabeth Kamande, Guang-Wan Hu
Summary: This article reviews the traditional uses, pharmacological properties, and phytoconstituents of Balanophora species, revealing that they contain diverse chemical compounds with interesting biological activities. However, research on many species in this genus is still lacking.
JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY
(2024)
Article
Plant Sciences
Luqi Cai, Yu Chen, Huizhong Xue, Yimeng Yang, Yuqi Wang, Junhe Xu, Chunyan Zhu, Long He, Yonghua Xiao
Summary: Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge (SM) has been proven to have potential therapeutic effects for diabetic nephropathy (DN) through its multi-component, multi-target, and multi-pathway pharmacological effects.
JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY
(2024)
Article
Plant Sciences
Chao Wang, Rui-Jia Fu, Ding-Qiao Xu, Qian Zuo, Ji-Ping Liu, Yu-Ping Tang
Summary: This study aimed to explore the hepatoprotective effects of Shicao on CCl4-induced acute liver injury. A rat model of acute liver injury was established and liver function indices were assessed. Untargeted metabolomics was conducted to identify differential metabolites. Network pharmacology was used to construct a network of metabolite-reaction-enzyme-gene constituents, and key components and hub genes were screened. Shicao showed hepatoprotective effects against acute liver injury in rats.
JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY
(2024)