Research progress on components and mechanisms of neurotoxicity induced by traditional Chinese medicine

Abstract

Over the years, the safety of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has received widespread attention, especially the central nervous system-related adverse reactions. Indeed, the complexity of TCM has limited the widespread application of TCM. The article summarizes the main components associated with neurotoxicity, including alkaloids, terpenes, flavonoids, saponins, proteins, and heavy metals, by reviewing the literature on the neurotoxicity of TCM. It has been established that the neurotoxicity mechanisms mainly include mitochondrial damage, oxidative damage, inhibition of cell proliferation (including transcriptional and DNA damage), changes in cell membrane permeability, and apoptosis. By reviewing the latest literature, this paper provides the foothold for follow-up studies and can assist clinicians in preventing neurotoxicity via rational and safe TCM drug use.

First genome assembly and annotation of Sanghuangporus weigelae uncovers its medicinal functions, metabolic pathways, and evolution

“…Chinese medicine, the treasure of ancient Chinese science ( He et al., 2023 ), is also known as “the key to unlocking the treasury of Chinese civilization” ( Bai et al., 2022 ), and has become an important part of cultural exchanges between China and other countries, spreading and gaining influence around the world, and as well as the promotion of exchanges and mutual understanding between the civilizations of the East and the West ( Guo et al., 2023 ). “Sanghuang” ( Sanghuangporus ), a valuable traditional Chinese medicine, known as “forest gold” ( Cao et al., 2020 ), can be compared with the Chinese medicines, “Lingzhi” ( Ganoderma lucidum ), “Zizhi” ( G. sinensis ), and “Fuling” ( W. cocos ), which have been the focus of intense research.…”