Xueshuantong Improves Functions of Lymphatic Ducts and Modulates Inflammatory Responses in Alzheimer’s Disease Mice

Abstract

Recent studies have revealed significant contributions of lymphatic vessels (LVs) to vital functions of the brain, especially related to clearance of waste from the brain and immune responses in the brain. These studies collectively indicate that enhancing the functions of LVs may improve brain functions during brain aging and in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) where LV functions are impaired. However, it is currently unknown whether this enhancement can be achieved using small molecules. We have previously shown that a widely used Chinese herbal medicine Xueshuantong (XST) significantly improves functions and reduces pathology in AD transgenic mice associated with elevated cerebral blood flow (CBF). Here, we show that XST partially rescues deficits in lymphatic structures, improves clearance of amyloid-β (Aβ) from the brain, and reduces the inflammatory responses in the serum and brains of transgenic AD mice. In addition, we showed that this improvement in the lymphatic system occurs independently of elevated CBF, suggesting independent modulation and limited interaction between blood circulation and lymphatic systems. Moreover, XST treatment leads to a significant increase in GLT-1 level and a significantly lower level of MMP-9 and restores AQP4 polarity in APP/PS1 mice. These results provide the basis for further exploration of XST to enhance or restore LV functions, which may be beneficial to treat neurodegenerative diseases or promote healthy aging.

Leveraging the glymphatic and meningeal lymphatic systems as therapeutic strategies in Alzheimer’s disease: an updated overview of nonpharmacological therapies

“…The Chinese herbal medicine formula of Yi-Zhi-Fang-Dai protects against ischemic stroke-induced downregulation of perivascular AQP4 and the resulting increase in cortical and hippocampal Aβ deposition, suggesting the possible involvement of the glymphatic pathway in its neuroprotective effects [ 116 ]. Moreover, Xueshuantong, another Chinese medicine herbal formula, partially reverses meningeal lymphatics morphology in association with reduced meningeal Aβ accumulation and central pro-inflammatory response in transgenic AD animals [ 117 ].…”