Research Update:Ox-knee Root.

  seminal trace...Ox-Knee Root Extract.5:1.Twotooth Achyranthes Root,Cyathula Root.Chuan Niu Xi,Sichuan Ox Knee Root,Szechwan Ox Knee Root Extract...

 


   Phytochemical info of Ox-Knee Root.

 Product Name:
 Synonym:
 Definition:Ox-Knee Root are majorly composed of
 Chemical information disclosed as following table:


   Research Update:Ox-knee Root.Achyranthes bidentata Bl.

  Structural development of root and their relationship to accumulation of triterpenoid saponins in Achyranthes bidentata Bl.:Fen Zi Xi Bao Sheng Wu Xue Bao. 2007 Apr;40(2):121-9. Chinese.Li JT, Peng L, Hu ZH, Mu W.Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China, Northwest University, Ministry of Education, Xi'an 710069.

 A study concerning the relationship of dynamic accumulation of triterpenoid saponins and anatomical characteristics of Achyranthes bidentata Bl roots was undertaken by anatomical, histochemical and phytochemical method respectively. Results revealed that the primary and secondary structures of the root resembled those of usual dicots. The continual thickening growth of root principally resulted from the differentiation and development of the tertiary structure. The first ring of supernumerary cambium originated from the parenchyma and vascular ray cells of secondary phloem and each of the followed rings initiated in the outmost foundamental parenchyma cells which were derived from the immediate preceding ring. In the supernumerary cambiums, there had not distinction between the fusiform initial and the ray initial. Its cells present stratifide arranged from a longitudinal section through root. Regular and concentric rings of tertiary vascular bundles who differentiate centrifugally were enclosed by the connective parenchyma. The number of the rings continually increase with the development of the root itself. Triterpenoid saponins accumulated mainly in pericycle, primary phloem and parenchyma between primary phloem and xylem in the primary structure of root but came into existence in cells of secondary phloem and phelloderm with secondary structure development of root, and as well as in supernumerary cambium and phloem of tertiary vascular bundle after the tertiary structure maturated gradually in the roots. The investigation provides indications that the tertiary structure were not only main parts in the roots of Achyranthes bidentata Bl, but also important storage region of triterpenoid saponins in its growth and development. In addition, the analysis of using the HPLC showed that dynamic increasing trend oleanolic acid was as "S" curve during the roots growth and development and up to the highest content of triterpenoid saponins after plants grew 120 days. Meanwhile, the number of the rings of tertiary vascular bundles, length and diameter of the roots were the same as the triterpenoid saponins increasing trend. It should be optimal season for harvest.

  Adjuvant effect of Achyranthes bidentata saponins on specific antibody and cellular response to ovalbumin in mice.:Vaccine. 2006 Apr 24;24(17):3432-9. Epub 2006 Feb 21.Sun HX.College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Kaixuan Road 268, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310029, China. sunhx@zju.edu.cn

 In this study, the haemolytic activities of Achyranthes bidentata saponins (ABS) and its adjuvant potentials on the cellular and humoral immune responses of ICR mice against ovalbumin (OVA) were evaluated. We determined the haemolytic activity of ABS using 0.5% rabbit red blood cell. The concentration inducing 50% of the maximum haemolysis (HD50) for ABS was 164.59+/-13.41 microg/ml. ICR mice were immunized subcutaneously with OVA 100 microg alone or with OVA 100 microg dissolved in saline containing Alum (200 microg), QuilA (10 and 20 microg) or ABS (50, 100 or 200 microg) on Days 1 and 15. Two weeks later (Day 28), concanavalin A (Con A)-, lipopolysaccharide (LPS)- and OVA-stimulated splenocyte proliferation and OVA-specific antibodies in serum were measured. ABS significantly enhanced the Con A-, LPS-, and OVA-induced splenocyte proliferation in the OVA-immunized mice especially at a dose of 100 microg (P<0.05 or P<0.025). OVA-specific serum IgG, IgG1 and IgG2b antibody titers were also significantly enhanced by ABS compared with OVA control group (P<0.05 or P<0.025). The results suggest that ABS showed a slight haemolytic effect and enhanced significantly a specific antibody and cellular response against OVA in mice.

  Fabrication and evaluation of a new composite composed of tricalcium phosphate, gelatin, and Chinese medicine as a bone substitute.:J Biomed Mater Res B Appl Biomater. 2005 Nov;75(2):277-88.Yao CH, Tsai HM, Chen YS, Liu BS.Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Material Science, Chungtai Institute of Health Science and Technology, Taichung, Taiwan, Republic of China.

 This study investigates the biological effects of traditional Chinese medicines on the activities of bone cells using rat bone cells. Then, a mixture of a GGT composite, that is, a novel biodegradable composite containing genipin crosslinked gelatin and tricalcium phosphate, and traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) was prepared as a GGT-TCM composite. A cultured neonatal rat calvarias organ was used to measure the potential of GGT-TCM composite for use in promoting the regeneration of defective bone tissue. The mitochondria activity of the bone cells following exposure to various concentrations of crude extracts of five herbal Chinese medicines was measured by colorimetric assay. Biochemical markers, such as alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) titers were analyzed to evaluate the activities of bone cells. Finally, we examined the organ culture units, which were maintained in cultured medium for 5 weeks. Morphology of tissue was observed, and the quantitative evaluation of the regenerated bone was determined. In a bone cells culture experiment, adding Cuscuta chinensis Lam. (TCM-5) to the bone cells culture clearly promoted the proliferation and differentiation of the osteoblasts from their precursor cells; but the reduced amount of TRAP indicated that the medicine significantly inhibited the osteoclasts activities. Opposite bone cell responses were observed when Loranthus parasiticus Merr. (TCM-3) and Achyranthes bidentata Bl. (TCM-4) were added to the bone cells culture. Eucommia ulmoides Oliv. (TCM-1) and Dipsacus asper Wall. (TCM-2) potentially influence the proliferation and differentiation of the osteoblasts from their precursor cells, but they did not affect the osteoclasts activities. The finding from the organ culture indicated that Chinese medicine effectively increased the rate of tissue regeneration of damaged bones.

  Physical-chemical properties and structure elucidation of abPS isolated from the root of Achyranthes bidentata.:Yao Xue Xue Bao. 2005 Jan;40(1):32-5. Chinese.Chen XM, Xu YJ, Tian GY.State Key Laboratory of Bio-organic and Natural Products Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, Academia Sinica, Shanghai 200032, China.

 AIM: To study the physicochemical properties and the structure of Achyranthes bidentata polysaccharide (AbPS). METHODS: AbPS was isolated from the roots of Achyranthes bidentata Bl., and purified by gel filtration chromatography. The distribution of the molecular weight of AbPS was determined by ESI-MS. The structure of AbPS was deduced by methylation analysis, reductive-cleavage and 13CNMR spectroscopy. RESULTS: AbPS was shown to compose of fructose residues and glucose residues and the molar ratio was 8:1. AbPS contain 2,1-linked fructose residue, 2,1-linked fructose residue, 1,2,6-linked fructose residue, terminal fructose residue and terminal glucose residue. CONCLUSION: AbPS is a fructan and belong to graminan.

  A new phytosterone from Achyranthes bidentata B1.:J Asian Nat Prod Res. 2005 Apr;7(2):181-4.Meng DL, Li X, Wang JH, Li W.Research Department of Natural Medicine, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, China.

 A new phytosterone named achyranthesterone A (1), along with the three known compounds stachysterone D (2), beta-ecdysone (3) and polypodine B (4) have been isolated from the roots of Achyranthes bidentata Bl. The structure of the new compound was determined as 2beta,3beta,14alpha,20S,21,22R,25-heptahydroxycholest-7-en-6-one on the basis of physico-chemical properties and spectral methods.


  Study on the fingerprints of Achyranthes bidentata Bl. by HPLC/UV/MS.:Zhong Yao Cai. 2003 Nov;26(11):787-9. Chinese.Wang Y, Zhang Z, Wang X, Xu X, Zhang H.Center for Instrumental Analysis, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009.

 OBJECTIVE: To establish the fingerprints of Achyranthes bidentata Bl. by HPLC/UV/MS. METHOD: Separation was performed on Aglient Zorbax SB-C18 column. Gradient elute was performed by the mobile phase consisting of methanol and 0.1% formic acid-water with the flow rate of 1.0 ml/min. RESULT: Perfect fingerprints were obtained which can be used for the evaluation of Achyranthes bidentata Bl. Four common peaks were confirmed in fingerprints. Three compounds were elucidated as 5-hydroxymethyl furaldehyde, ecdysterone, inokosterone by HPLC/MS. CONCLUSION: The method can be applied to the quality control of Achyranthes bidentata Bl.

  Determination of ecdysterone in Achyranthes bidentata Bl. and its activity promoting proliferation of osteoblast-like cells.:Yao Xue Xue Bao. 2000 Nov;35(11):868-70. Chinese.Gao XY, Wang DW, Li FM.Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110015, China.

 AIM: To study the activity of ecdysterone from Achyranthes bidentata Bl. (AB) promoting proliferation of osteoblast-like (OB-like) UMR106 cells and to determine its content in AB by HPLC method. METHODS: Ecdysterone isolated from AB was cultured with OB-like cells UMR106 together in vitro and the proliferation of OB-like cells was determined by MTT assay. The chromatographic conditions for determining ecdysterone included an ODS column (250 mm x 4.6 mm, 5 microns), a mobile phase consisting of a mixture of water-acetontrile-tetrahydrofuran (86:11:3), detection wavelength of 243 nm, and column temperature of 27 degrees C. Phenacetin was used as the internal standard. RESULTS: The ecdysterone from AB had significant activity promoting proliferation of OB-like cells, the proliferation was promoted by 41% (n = 3). The average recovery of ecdysterone was 96.2% (RSD = 2.1%), the calibration was linear in the range of 30-300 micrograms.mL-1 (gamma = 0.9998). CONCLUSION: Ecdysterone was screened quickly by cultivating with OB-like cells together in vitro. The HPLC method is accurate, fast and reproducible for the determination of ecdysterone in AB.

  Separation and identification of the compounds from Achyranthes bidentata Bl.:Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi. 1997 May;22(5):293-5, 319-20. Chinese.Wei S, Liang H, Zhao Y, Zhang R.Department of Phytochemistry, Beijing Medical University.

 Eight compounds were separated from the roots of Achyrathes bidentata by repeated chromatography. On the basis of physicochemical properties and spectral analysis their structures were elucidated as alpha-spinasterol (1), beta-sitosterol (2), chrysophanol (3), dibutyl phthalate (4), palmitic acid (5), alpha-spinasterol-3-O-beta-D-glucoside (6), daucosterol (7) and ecdysterone (8). Compounds 1-7 were isolated from the plant for the first time.

  Determination of oleanolic acid contents in differently-processed Achyranthes bidentata Bl. by HPLC.:Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi. 1997 May;22(5):281-3, 319. Chinese.Chen H, Wang J, Zhang L, Wang L.Guiyang College of Traditional Chinese Medicine.

 The contents of oleanolic acid in differently-processed products of Achyranthes bidentata were determined by HPLC. The result showed the contents to be in the following sequence: salt-broiled product > alcohol steamed product > alcohol-broiled product > unprocessed product. The average recovery rate was 100.2% and RSD 1.54%. The determination method has thus proved up to the standard for quantitative analysis.

  Betaine in differently processed root of Achyranthes bidentata Bl.:Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi. 1995 Oct;20(10):597-8, 638-9. Chinese.Chao Z, Zhang S, Nie S.Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing.

 The contents of betaine in differently processed root of Achyranthes bidentata were determined to be 0.930%-1.029% by reineckate precipitation and UV-visible spectrophotometry. The average recovery and relative standard deviation were 99.2% and 6.2%, respectively.


  Determination of oleanolic acid in the root of Achyranthes bidentata Bl. from different places of production by TLC-scanning.:Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi. 1995 Aug;20(8):459-60, 511. Chinese.Li X, Hu S.Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing.

 The contents of oleanolic acid in the root of Achyranthes bidentata and A. aspera from different places of production have been determined by dual-wavelength TLC-scanning. The results show that the content of oleanolic acid is 0.91%-1.14% in cultured A. bidentata, 0.78%-1.42% in A. bidentata natural and 0.054% in A. aspera. The average recovery is 98.63%.

  Antitumor activity and immuno-potentiating actions of Achyranthes bidentata polysaccharides.:Zhongguo Yao Li Xue Bao. 1993 Nov;14(6):556-61.Xiang DB, Li XY.Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences.

 Achyranthes bidentata polysaccharides (ABP), isolated from the root of Achyranthes bidentata Blume, 50 mg.kg-1 ip or 250 mg.kg-1 to ICR mice inhibited the growth of sarcoma 180. ABP 50 and 100 mg.kg-1 ip prolongated the survival days of mice bearing Ehrlich carcinoma. ABP 50-800 micrograms.ml-1 did not exert direct cytotoxic effect in vitro on S180 cells, but enhanced the cytotoxicity of peritoneal macrophages against S180 cells. ABP 50 mg.kg-1 ip x 17 d or 250 mg.kg-1 ig x 16 d promoted the plaque forming cells (PFC) response to sheep red blood cells (SRBC) and serum IgG level as well as splenocyte proliferation induced by mitogen Con A or LPS in tumor-induced immunodeficient mice. ABP also elevated the NK cell activity and serum TNF content in mice bearing S180. These results indicated that the antitumor effect of ABP may be related to its potentiating effect on both specific and nonspecific host immunological responses.

  Determination of ecdysones in polyploid and monoploid Achyranthes bidentata Bl.:Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi. 1989 Apr;14(4):210-1, 254. Chinese.Yao QY, Hu DF.

 Total ecdysones (ecdysterone and inokosterone) were isolated and identified from Achyranthes bidentata radix of polyploid and monoploid by column chromatography. The hormone contents of monoploid and diploid are about the same, but the content of polyploid is 14 times that of the diploid.

  A new phytosterone from the roots of Achyranthes bidentata.:Fitoterapia. 2007 May 10;Li X, Zhao W, Meng D, Qiao A.Research Department of Natural Medicine, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Box 49, Shenyang, 110016, PR China.

 A new phytosterone, (20R, 22R)-2beta, 3beta, 20, 22, 26-pentahydroxy-cholestan-7,12-dien-6-one (1), was isolated from the roots of Achyranthes bidentata. The structure was elucidated on the basis of spectral data.

  Opposite effects on tumor growth depending on dose of Achyranthes bidentata polysaccharides in C57BL/6 mice.:Int Immunopharmacol. 2007 May;7(5):568-77. Epub 2007 Jan 22.Jin LQ, Zheng ZJ, Peng Y, Li WX, Chen XM, Lu JX.Institute of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Wenzhou Medical College, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, China.

 We report here the investigation on the effects of Achyranthes bidentata polysaccharides (ABPS) against Lewis lung cancer (LLC) in C57BL/6 mice. Depending on its doses administered in vivo, ABPS was shown to have inhibitory as well as stimulative effects on tumor growth in LLC-bearing C57BL/6 mice. ABPS at low dose could significantly inhibit LLC growth, while high dose treatment of ABPS stimulated, rather than inhibited, LLC growth in C57BL/6 mice. Tumor cell cycle analysis revealed that more tumor cells arrested at G2/M phase after daily low dose intraperitoneal injection of ABPS for consecutive 15 days. The spleen weight increased markedly in LLC-bearing C57BL/6 mice treated with high dose of ABPS. However, the spleen cytotoxicity activity was significantly despaired in mice of high dose treatment of ABPS. Furthermore, we demonstrated that the expressions of IL-6 mRNA and TNF-alpha mRNA were markedly up-regulated in spleens from mice treated with a high dose of ABPS by RT-PCR reactions, suggesting that the low dose of ABPS inhibits tumor growth via its effect on tumor cell cycle distribution, rather than activation of NK activity as previously suggested. We postulate that the stimulation of tumor growth by high dose of ABPS is associated with dysfunction of NK cell and up-regulation of IL-6 mRNA and TNF-alpha mRNA expression in murine spleen.


  Isolation and identification of triterpenoids from root of Achyranthes bidentata in Henan.:Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi. 2006 Aug;31(15):1244-7. Chinese.Jia SP, Yu ZY, Hao ZF, Li JX.School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanjing University, China.

 OBJECTIVE: To investigate the triterpenoids from root of Achyranthes bidentata in Henan. METHOD: Sephadex, normal-and reversed-phase column chromatographies were applied for the isolation and purification. The structure determinations were performed by means of physiochemical properties, MS and NMR data analyses. RESULT: Seven compounds were isolated from the water soluble fraction in root of A. bidentata, and determined as achyranthoside A (1), achyranthoside E (2), momordin Ib (3), chikusetsusaponin IVa (4), chikusetsusaponin IVa methyl ester (5), chikusetsusaponin V (6), chikusetsusaponin V methyl ester (7). CONCLUSION: Compounds 1 and 2 were isolated from the natural resources for the first time.

  Effects of extracts of Chinese medicines on Ganoderma lucidum in submerged culture.:Wei Sheng Wu Xue Bao. 2003 Aug;43(4):519-22. Chinese.Yang H, Wu T, Zhang K.Key Laboratory of Industrial Biotechnology of Ministry of Education, Southern Yangtze University, Wuxi 214036, China. yanghl99@163.com

 Effects of water and ethanol extracts of 10 Chinese medicines, such as Astragalus membranaceus, Coix lachryma-jobi, etc., on biomass and exopolysaccharide of Ganoderma lucidum were studied by submerged culture. The results showed: water extracts of all medicines can improve the culture of G. lucidum except of A. membranaceus, ethanol extracts of C. lachryma-jobi, Dioscorea opposita, Codonopsis pilosula, and Achyranthes bidentata( < 187.5g Medicine/L substrate) can also increase the biomass of G. lucidum, but the ethanol extracts of Angelica sinensis, Dendrobium nobile check the growth of G. lucidum. The production of exopolysa-ccharide can be improved by all the Chinese medicines and their dosage used in this experiment, Although A. sinensis, D. Nobile check the growth of G. lucidum, they could stimulate the secretion of exopolysaccharide in lower dosage. It is concluded that some Chinese medicines, such as C. lachryma-jobi, D. opposita, C. pilosula, etc. can be processed by the fermentation of G. lucidum, and bio-active compound can be produced by adding appropriate Chinese medicine in the substrate to culture G. lucidum.

  Prevention of arthritic inflammation using an oriental herbal combination BDX-1 isolated from Achyranthes bidentata and Atractylodes japonica.:Arch Pharm Res. 2005 Aug;28(8):902-8.Han SB, Lee CW, Yoon YD, Lee JH, Kang JS, Lee KH, Yoon WK, Lee K, Park SK, Kim HM.Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), 52 Oundong, Yusong, Taejon 305-333, Korea.

 An oriental herbal combination (BDX-1) was isolated from Achyranthes bidentata and Atractylodes japonica. We previously tested the clinical effectiveness of BDX-1 in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients and found that it has a beneficial therapeutic effect. Here, we provide experimental evidence for the effectiveness of BDX-1 on RA in murine models. The oral administration of BDX-1 was found to markedly inhibit collagen-induced arthritis, adjuvant-induced arthritis, and zymosan-induced inflammation. It also inhibited carrageenan-induced acute edema and acetic acid-induced writhing response. In addition, the biological activity of BDX-1 was found to be strongly increased by fermentation. Our results suggest that BDX-1 could be useful for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis.

  Study on the dynamic growth rhythm of Achyranthes bidentata under different densities.:Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi. 2005 Jul;30(14):1069-72. Chinese.Wang WP, Li YS, Zhou YF.Department of Agronomy, Hebei Normal University of Science and Technology, Changli 066600, China. wangwenpo@126.com

 OBJECTIVE: The experiment was conducted to study the dynamic growth rhythm of Achyranthes bidentata under different densities. METHOD: The plant samples were collected to measure the growth rate of each organ. RESULT: Under different densities, the growing dynamic rhythm of A. bidentata were similar. The growth of main root exhibited a trend of "slow-fast-slow" by stages. The increase of dry root weight was fastest during the period of 30-40 days before harvest. The dry-matter increasing rate of whole plant was fastest in the later period of branching stage. The differences of root yields among the plants growing under different densities were significant. CONCLUSION: For high yield and good quality, the density of planting of A. bidentata should be considered.

  Five new oleanolic acid glycosides from Achyranthes bidentata with inhibitory activity on osteoclast formation.:Planta Med. 2005 Jul;71(7):673-9.Li JX, Hareyama T, Tezuka Y, Zhang Y, Miyahara T, Kadota S.Key Lab of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanjing University, Nanjing, P. R. China. lijxnju@nju.edu.cn

 Bioassay-directed fractionation of a butanol-soluble fraction of methanol extract of the root of Achyranthes bidentata resulted in the isolation of 5 new oleanolic acid glycosides 1-5, namely, 18-(beta-D-glucopyranosyloxy)-28-oxoolean-12-en-3beta-yl 3-O-(beta-D-glucopyranosyl)-beta-D-glucopyranosiduronic acid methyl ester (1), achyranthoside C dimethyl ester (2), achyranthoside C butyl dimethyl ester (3), achyranthoside E dimethyl ester (4), and achyranthoside E butyl methyl ester (5), together with 10 known compounds. Their structures were established on the basis of spectroscopic interpretation and chemical methods. All the oleanolic acid glycosides inhibited the formation of osteoclast-like multinucleated cells (OCLs) induced by 1alpha,25(OH)2D3 in a co-culture assay system.


  Isolation and structure identification of C-25 epimers of inokosterone from Achyranthes bidentata Blume.:Yao Xue Xue Bao. 2004 Nov;39(11):913-6. Chinese.Zhu TT, Liang H, Zhao YY, Wang B.Department of Natural Medicines, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100083, China.

 AIM: To isolate C-25 epimers of inokosterone from Achyranthes bidentata Blume. and identify their structures. METHODS: To separate C-25 epimers of inokosterone by using various kinds of chromatography methods and identify their structures on basis of spectral analysis and chemical method. RESULTS: Three compounds were isolated and their structures were established as 25S-inokosterone (1), 25R-inokosterone (2) and ecdysterone (3). CONCLUSION: Compounds 1 and 2 are new C-25 configuration isomers from Achyranthes bidentata Blume., their absolute configurations are elucidated at the first time, and their 13CNMR data are reported for the first time.

  Studies on water-soluble chemical constituents in root of Achyranthes bidentata.:Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi. 2004 Jul;29(7):649-52. Chinese.Wang T, Cui SY, Suo YR, Lu RH.Lanzhou Institute of Chemical and Physics, Chinese Academy of Science, Lanzhou 730000, China.

 OBJECTIVE: To study the water-soluble chemical constituents in root of Achyranthes bidentata. METHOD: The chemical constituents were isolated by silica gel column chromatography and the structures were elucidated by the NMR spectra and physico-chemical properties. RESULT: Seven compounds were obtained and identified as n-butyl-beta-D-fructopyranoside (I), oleanoic acid (II), 3-O-[beta-D-glucopyranosyl], oleanoic acid 28-O-beta-D-glucopyranoside (III), allantoin (IV), 20-hydroxy ecdysone (V), glutamic acid (VI), 3-O-[beta-D-glucopyranosyl], oleanoic acid 28-O-beta-D-glucopyranosyl ester (VII). CONCLUSION: Compounds III-VII were obtained from this plant for the first time.

  Eosinophils apoptosis, fas mRNA and bcl-2 mRNA expressions in asthma model of young rat and effects of achyranthes bidentata polysaccharides.:Zhonghua Er Ke Za Zhi. 2003 Sep;41(9):657-60. Chinese.Li CC, Hu XG, Zhang WX, Xie LW, Zhang HY, Dong L, Cai XH, Wu RX, Zhang ZX, He QS.Division of Pulmonology, Second Affiliated Hospital & Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical College, Wenzhou 325027, China.

 OBJECTIVE: Asthma is a chronic respiratory tract disorder characterized by airway hyperreaction (AHR), persistent airway inflammation, high serum IgE, overproduction of IL-4, IL-5 and IL-13 by allergen-specific Th2 cells. The morbidity and mortality of asthma have continued to increase despite the use of currently available therapeutic agents. The reputed effects of traditional Chinese medicines (TCMs) have led to increasing use of TCMs for treatment of asthma throughout the world. The aims of this study were to investigate in asthma model of young rat the mRNA expressions of apoptotic gene fas and bcl-2, eosinophils (EOS) apoptosis in airway, and effects of achyranthes bidentata polysaccharides (ABPS), a group of polysaccharides extracted from TCM Achyranthes bidentata blume, on treatment of asthma. METHODS: Fifty Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were divided into five groups, 10 rats per group. Asthma in rats was induced by intraperitioneal sensitization and challenge with nebulized ovalbumin (OVA). A pretreatment with ABPS [50 mg/(kg x d)] was done according to three different schedules: consecutively 3 days at sensitization (T1), at challenge (T2) or both of the two periods (T3). Sham-treated rats (A) and naive rats (C) served as controls. The animals were sacrificed 24 hours after the last challenge. The mRNA expression of bcl-2 and fas in eosinophils presenting in airway and the apoptosis of eosinophils in airway were assessed by using in situ hybridization with oligonucleotide probe and TUNEL methods, respectively. RESULTS: (1) Twenty-four hours after the last antigen challenge, the mRNA expression of fas in eosinophils presenting in airway significantly decreased in group A [(43.4 +/- 10.0)%] compared with that in group C [(73.2 +/- 11.9)%] (P < 0.01). ABPS could increase the fas mRNA expression significantly in all the three groups [(59.0 +/- 8.1)%, (57.5 +/- 9.6)%, (76.2 +/- 2.7)%], compared with that in group A (P < 0.05, P < 0.05, P < 0.01, respectively). The expression of the bcl-2 mRNA in group C was (47.9 +/- 8.7)%, it was elevated to (67.4 +/- 7.3)% in group A (P < 0.01). The expression of the bcl-2 mRNA in ABPS treated T1 and T3 groups was significantly lowered [(57.7 +/- 12.7)%, (57.3 +/- 6.8)%, P < 0.05], but not in T2 group [(72.4 +/- 6.7)%]. (2) In group A, the EOS presenting in the airway increased significantly, but there were few apoptotic EOS; the percentage of apoptotic eosinophil was distinctly lower in group A than that in group C [(5.3 +/- 2.2)% vs. (15.9 +/- 2.4)%, P < 0.01]. Compared with that in group A, the eosinophil apoptosis ratio in those ABPS treated groups T1, T3 was evidently elevated [(8.7 +/- 2.9)%, (9.8 +/- 2.2)%, P < 0.05, P < 0.05], but ABPS treated at challenge (T2) could not change the eosinophil apoptosis ratio significantly (P > 0.05). CONCLUSION: (1) In asthmatic rat, the expressions of the genes fas and bcl-2 mRNA in EOS were changed evidently and the ratio of EOS apoptotosis reduced greatly. (2) ABPS could enhance the apoptosis of EOS by upregulating the expression of the genes fas and bcl-2 mRNA.

  Inhibiting effects of Achyranthes bidentata polysaccharide and Lycium barbarum polysaccharide on nonenzyme glycation in D-galactose induced mouse aging model.:Biomed Environ Sci. 2003 Sep;16(3):267-75.Deng HB, Cui DP, Jiang JM, Feng YC, Cai NS, Li DD.Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China.

 OBJECTIVE: To investigate the inhibiting effects and mechanism of achyranthes bidentata polysaccharide (ABP) and lycium barbarum polysaccharide (LBP) on nonenzyme glycation in D-galactose induced mouse aging model. METHODS: Serum AGE levels were determined by AGE-ELISA, MTT method was used to determine lymphocyte proliferation, IL-2 activity was determined by a bioassay method. Spontaneous motor activity was used to detect mouse's neuromuscular movement, latency of step-through method was used to examine learning and memory abilities of mouse, colormetric assay was used to determine hydroxyproline concentration in mouse skin, pyrogallol autoxidation method was used to determine superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity of erythrocytes. RESULTS: Decreased levels of serum AGE, hydroxyproline concentration in mouse skin and spontaneous motor activity in D-galactose mouse aging model were detected after treated with ABP or LBP, while lymphocyte proliferation and IL-2 activity, learning and memory abilities, SOD activity of erythrocytes, were enhanced. CONCLUSIONS: ABP and LBP could inhibit nonenzyme glycation in D-galactose induced mouse aging model in vivo and ABP has a better inhibiting effect than LBP.

  The ameliorating effects of cognition-enhancing Chinese herbs on scopolamine- and MK-801-induced amnesia in rats.:Am J Chin Med. 2003;31(4):543-9.Lin YC, Wu CR, Lin CJ, Hsieh MT.Institute of Chinese Pharmaceutical Sciences, China Medical College Taichung, Taiwan, ROC.

 The study was to investigate the ameliorating effects of three Chinese herbs--Achyranthes bidentata (AB), Ophiopogon japonicus (OJ) and Cnidium monnieri (CM) on scopolamine (SCOP)- and MK-801-induced amnesia by using a passive avoidance task in rats. AB, OJ and CM at 0.1 and 0.3 g/kg prolonged the step-through latency (STL) of the retention trial. In addition, AB, OJ and CM reversed the STL shortened by MK-801, but only AB reversed the STL shortened by SCOP. In conclusion, these Chinese herbs possess cognition-enhancing activities and anti-amnestic effects, but the mechanism of the effect of AB was different from those of OJ and CM.


  Inhibiting effect of ethanol extract from Achyranthes bidentata on A beta 42 aggregation.:Zhong Yao Cai. 2003 Jun;26(6):412-5. Chinese.Luo H, Gu F, Li X.Pharmacy College, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632.

 OBJECTIVE: To observe inhibiting effect of ethanol extract from Achyranthes bidentata (Nx-E) on A beta 42 on (beta-amyloid protein 42) aggregation and fibril formation. METHODS: A beta 42 and Nx-E were incubated in 37 degrees C, 5%, CO2 incubator first, fibril formation was monitored by thioflavine-T fluorescence and was observed with transmission electron microscopy. RESULTS: At 7 days, 1 microgram.microL-1 A beta 42 fluorescence intensity was significantly increased, and much amyloid-like fibril was observed. A beta 42 co-incubated with 15 and 30 micrograms.microL-1 Nx-E for 7 days, their fluorescence intensities were remarkably reduced, few fibrils but an amorphous material were often observed. CONCLUSIONS: After 1 microgram.microL-1 A beta 42 was incubated alone up to 7 days, A beta 42 aggregated and amyloid-like fibril formed. 15 and 30 micrograms.microL-1 Nx-E can prevent A beta 42 from polymerizing to some extent.

  Study on the genetiey relationship between Chinese and Korean medicinal materials of niuxi with the method of RAPD.:Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi. 2002 Jun;27(6):421-3. Chinese. Zheng XZ, Guo BL, Yan YN.Beijing University of TCM, Beijing 100102, China. Jangxizhen@yahoo.co.kr

 OBJECTIVE: To study the hereditary relationship between Chinese and Korean medicinal materials of Niuxi achyranthis root. METHOD: Ten samples of four kinds of Niuxi was studied with the method of RAPD. RESULT: Expanded product showed total record of 100 spectrum bands, which proved that the hereditary gap between Korean self-produced A. japonica and A. bidentata is smallest. CONCLUSION: Korean self-produced A. japonica is near to A. Sidentata.

  The research on analgestic and anti-inflammatory action of different processed products of Achyranthes bidentata.:Zhong Yao Cai. 1997 Oct;20(10):507-9. Chinese.Lu T, Mao C, Zhang L, Xu W.Nanjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjin 210029.

 Analgestic effect of different processed products of Achyranthes bidentata in mice was observed in hot plate and acetic acid induced writhing test. The experiment results showed that water extract of Achyranthes bidentata and its processed products could inhibit the pain. The analgestic effect of its product processed with wine is the most powerful and lasting. The results showed that Achyranthes bidentata could obviously inhibit the ear inflammation of mice which was led by croton fruit oil. The anti-inflammatory effect of its product processed with wine is the most powerful.

  Two triterpene saponins from Achyranthes bidentata.:Chem Pharm Bull. 2001 Nov;49(11):1492-4.Mitaine-Offer AC, Marouf A, Hanquet B, Birlirakis N, Lacaille-Dubois MA.Laboratoire de Pharmacognosie, Unit¨¦ MIB, Facult¨¦ de Pharmacie, Universit¨¦ de Bourgogne, Dijon, France.

 Bidentatoside II(1) and chikusetsusaponin V methyl ester (2) are two further triterpene saponins isolated from the roots of Achyranthes bidentata. Chemical and homo and heteronuclear two-dimensional (2D) NMR techniques have led to the structural elucidation of 1 which is a new seco-glycoside of oleanolic acid and the full 1H- and 13C-NMR assignments of 2. These compounds did not show any potentiation of the in vitro cytotoxicity of cisplatin in the HT 29 human colon cancer cell line.

  The immunomodulatory effect of Achyranthes bidentata polysaccharides.:Yao Xue Xue Bao. 1997 Dec;32(12):881-7. Chinese.Li ZK, Li DD.Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050.

 Achyranthes bidentata polysaccharides(ABPS) was extracted from the root of Achyranthes bidentata Blume with molecular weight of 1400. It composed of fructose and glucose residues. The molar ratio was 8.7:1.0. It was a water-soluble neutral polysaccharide of white powder in purity of 99.9%. The effect of ABPS 0.625 x 10(2)-2.00 x 10(3) mg.L-1 on lymphocyte proliferation to Con A on splenocytes from aged mice was evaluated to be about 1.11-3.26 folds in vitro. ABPS 1.00 x 10(3) mg.L-1 was shown to increase IL-2 production in Con A-stimulated aged mouse splenocytes from 6.7 +/- 1.0 u.ml-1 to 19.3 +/- 5.7 u.ml-1 in vitro. Sandwish-ELISA was used for the determination of TNF-alpha, TNF-beta and sIL-2R in cell suspension. The spectrophotometry with Griess reagent was used for the determination of NO in cell suspension. A method was developed for the determination of NOS activity in biological sample by HPLC. ABPS 50, 100 mg.kg-1 i.p. was found to markedly promote TNF-beta and NO release, but decrease sIL-2R production from Con A-stimulated aged rat splenocytes, the activity of NOS in those cells was increased. ABPS 100 mg.kg-1 i.p. elevated serum TNF-alpha and NO contents and the NOS activity induced by LPS 0.3 mg.kg-1 i.p. in aged rats. ABPS 50-800 mg.L-1 elevated TNF-alpha and NO production from PM phi and increased the NOS activity in PM phi in vitro, but showed no significant influence on TNF-alpha, NO release and on NOS activity induced by LPS 10 mg.L-1 for PM phi from aged rats. ABPS 100 mg.kg-1 i.p. elicited TNF-alpha, NO production and NOS activity for PM phi from aged rats, ABPS 100 mg.kg-1 i.p. showed a synergetic action with LPS 10 mg.L-1. When rats were treated with ABPS 50-800 mg.L-1 i.p., there was no significant difference on NO production on, and NOS activity in the cerebral cortex between those isolated from aged rats and those isolated from young rats. These results indicate that ABPS may prime and trigger M phi and has restorative effects on the deficiency of the immune system associated with aging in mice and rats.


  Bidentatoside I, a new triterpene saponin from Achyranthes bidentata.:J Nat Prod. 2001 Feb;64(2):243-5.Mitaine-Offer AC, Marouf A, Pizza C, Khanh TC, Chauffert B, Lacaille-Dubois MA.Laboratoire de Pharmacognosie, Unit¨¦ MIB, J E 2244, Facult¨¦ de Pharmacie, Universit¨¦ de Bourgogne, 7 Bd. Jeanne D'Arc, BP 87900, 21079 Dijon, France.

 Bidentatoside I (1) is a new triterpene saponin bearing an unusual dioxopropionic acid unit, isolated from the roots of Achyranthes bidentata. Structural elucidation was performed mainly by chemical and homo- and heteronuclear 2D NMR techniques. This compound did not show any potentiation of the in vitro cytotoxicity of cisplatin in the HT 29 human colon cancer cell line.

  Effect of Achyranthes bidentata polysaccharides (ABP) on antitumor activity and immune function of S180-bearing mice.:Zhonghua Zhong Liu Za Zhi. 1995 Jul;17(4):275-8. Chinese.Yu S, Zhang Y.Department of Macrobiology, Shanghai University of TCM.

 Achyranthes bidentata polysaccharides (ABP), extracted from the root of Achyranthes bidentata Blume, 25-100mg.kg-1.d-1 x 7 could inhibit tumor growth by 31%-40%. Combination of cyclophosphamide (Cy) and ABP increased the rate of tumor growth inhibition to 58%. ABP 50 and 100% mg/kg ip could potentiate LAK cell activity and increase the Con A (5 micrograms/ml)-induced production of tumor necrosis factor (TNF-beta) from murine splenocytes. The optimal time for TNF production was on d 8. We also found that ABP 1-2 micrograms/ml strongly inhibited the proliferation of S180 and K562 cells in vitro. The S180 cell membrane content of sialic acid was increased and phospholipid decreased after ABP acting on cells for 24 hours. The changes were significantly different from the control group (P < 0.05 or P < 0.01), but the membrane cholesterol content and membrane mobility indices (Ch/PI) were not affected. The results suggest that the antitumor mechanism of ABP may be related to potentiation of the host immunosurveillance mechanism and the changes in cell membrane features.

  Synthesis of Achyranthes bidentata polysaccharide sulfate and its antivirus activity.:Yao Xue Xue Bao. 1995;30(2):107-11. Chinese.Tian GY, Li ST, Song ML, Zheng MS, Li W.Shanghai Institute of Oganic Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences.

 Sulfation of Achyranthes bidentata polysaccharide (Abps) with sulfuric acid or sulfur trioxide-pyridine or chlorosulfonic acid-pyridine was studied. A homogeneous sulfation method with good yield of 82.11% was obtained, using chlorosulfonic acid in an excess of pyridine. Sulfated Achyranthes bidentata polysaccharide was obtained as an amorphous sodium salt easily soluble in water. The UV and IR spectrum of Abps sulfate showed absorptions at 208, 268, 286 nm and 1232, 823.6 cm-1 respectively. The sulfur content of the products was found to be 20-22%. The degree of substitution varied from 2.8 to 3.2. It showed that the hydroxy group of Abps was almost completely esterified by chlorosulfonic acid. The Abps sulfate was shown to have high activity as anti-HBsAg and HBeAg. It is also effective on simple herpes virus type-I.

  Experimental studies on Uncaria sinensis (Oliv.) Havil and Achyranthes bidentata Blume and their compacibility.:Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi. 1994 Jun;19(6):371-3, 384. Chinese.Qin CL, Liu JY, Cheng ZM, Jiao Y.Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing.

 Pharmacological studies were conducted on Uncaria sinensis and Achyranthes bidentata both separately and combined. Comparison was made on the hypotensive effect on normal and renal-type hypertensive rats as well anti-spasmodic and sedative effects in mice. The results showed that Uncaria sinensis and Achyranthes bidentata have obvious synergic action in compatibility.

  Screening of Epstein-Barr virus early antigen expression inducers from Chinese medicinal herbs and plants.:Biomed Environ Sci. 1994 Mar;7(1):50-5.Zeng Y, Zhong JM, Ye SQ, Ni ZY, Miao XQ, Mo YK, Li ZL.Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Preventive Medicine, Beijing.

 Ether extracts of 1693 Chinese medicinal herbs and plants from 268 families were studied for the induction of Epstein-Barr viral (EBV) early antigen (EA) expression in the Raji cell line. Fifty-two from 18 families were found to have inducing activity. Twenty-five and seven of them were from Euphorbiaceae and Thymelaeaeeae, respectively. Some of them, such as Croton tiglium, Euphorbia kansui, Daphne genkwa, Wikstroemia chamaedaphne, Wikstroemia indica, Prunus mandshurica Koehne and Achyranthes bidentata are commonly used drugs. The significance of these herbs in the activation of EBV in vivo and their relation to the development of nasopharyngeal carcinoma were discussed.


  Antitumor activity and immuno-potentiating actions of Achyranthes bidentata polysaccharides.:Zhongguo Yao Li Xue Bao. 1993 Nov;14(6):556-61.Xiang DB, Li XY.Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences.

 Achyranthes bidentata polysaccharides (ABP), isolated from the root of Achyranthes bidentata Blume, 50 mg.kg-1 ip or 250 mg.kg-1 to ICR mice inhibited the growth of sarcoma 180. ABP 50 and 100 mg.kg-1 ip prolongated the survival days of mice bearing Ehrlich carcinoma. ABP 50-800 micrograms.ml-1 did not exert direct cytotoxic effect in vitro on S180 cells, but enhanced the cytotoxicity of peritoneal macrophages against S180 cells. ABP 50 mg.kg-1 ip x 17 d or 250 mg.kg-1 ig x 16 d promoted the plaque forming cells (PFC) response to sheep red blood cells (SRBC) and serum IgG level as well as splenocyte proliferation induced by mitogen Con A or LPS in tumor-induced immunodeficient mice. ABP also elevated the NK cell activity and serum TNF content in mice bearing S180. These results indicated that the antitumor effect of ABP may be related to its potentiating effect on both specific and nonspecific host immunological responses.

  Effects of Achyranthes bidentata polysaccharides on interleukin-1 and tumor necrosis factor-alpha production from mouse peritoneal macrophages.:Zhongguo Yao Li Xue Bao. 1993 Jul;14(4):332-6.Xiang DB, Li XY.Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences.

 Achyranthes bidentata polysaccharides (ABP), extracted from the root of Achyranthes bidentata, induced interleukin-1 (IL-1) synthesis as well as tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) synthesis and secretion from thioglycolate-primed mouse peritoneal macrophages in vitro. ABP 100-800 micrograms.ml-1 enhanced both synthesis and release of IL-1 when stimulated by lipopolysaccharides (LPS) (5 micrograms.ml-1), but had no significant influences on synthesis and release of TNF-alpha induced by LPS (10 micrograms.ml-1). Studies on IL-1 and TNF-alpha production induced by ABP (200 micrograms.ml-1) alone or plus LPS showed that peak levels of IL-1 release reached at 24 h and that of TNF-alpha release at about 2-6 h after incubation. Peritoneal macrophages from mice ip ABP 25 and 50 mg.kg-1.d-1 x 5 d produced much more IL-1 than those from control group. Peritoneal macrophages from ip ABP 100 mg.kg-1.d-1 x 6 d alone released more TNF-alpha vs control group, and showed a synergetic action with LPS (10 micrograms.ml-1), which was as strong as the positive control agent BCG. These results provide an explanation for the immunopotentiating effect of ABP.

  Determination of oleanolic acid in Achyranthes bidentata BLume and its preparations by supercritical fluid chromatography.:Yao Xue Xue Bao. 1992;27(9):690-4. Chinese. Wu MH, Li XL, Wang M, Liu JY, Zhang MY.School of Pharmacy, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai.

 Capillary SFC was used for the determination of oleanolic acid in Achyranthes bidentata BLume and its preparations Tianmawan, Jinguishenqiwan and Hechedazaowan. The amount of oleanolic acid in the root of Achyranthes bidentata BLume was 1.75-2.19% (mean +/- SD = 1.94 +/- 0.17%). The limit of detection was 9.605 x 10(-11) g. The method is highly sensitive, accurate, reproducible, simple, rapid and specific, so, it can be extensively used for the determination of other preparations and crude herbs.


  Scientific References:

  1.Research Update:Ox-knee Root.