B. glomerulata promotes neuroprotection against ischemic stroke by inhibiting apoptosis through the activation of PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway

BACKGROUND: Brassaiopsis glomerulata (Blum) Regel (B.glomerulata) is recognized as a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) primarily used for promoting blood circulation and removing stasis. It is frequently utilized in the treatment of injuries resulting from falls and bumps. PURPOSE: Despite its effective use in clinical treatment for ischemic stroke (IS), there are currently no reports on its composition and mechanism of action, which affects its promotion. The study investigated the chemical components and molecular mechanisms of B.glomerulata, with the following components: UPLC-Q-TOF-MS, network pharmacology Analysis and experimental verification in vivo and vitro. METHODS: The effect of B.glomerulata on interfering with ischemic stroke was assessed on MCAO/R rats and ORD cell model. Then the compositional analysis was conducted using UPLC-Q-TOF-MS. Furthermore, network pharmacology and molecular docking techniques were explored to identify potential targets and pathways. The predicted mechanisms of action were ultimately confirmed by immunohistochemistry and protein blotting. RESULTS: B. glomerulata exhibited neuroprotective effects in MCAO/R rats by reductions in hippocampal and cortical neuronal damage, brain infarction, and cerebral edema. Both in vivo and in vitro experiments demonstrated that it decreased ROS and MDA levels, increased SOD and GSH levels, thereby inhibiting oxidative stress. Moreover, the improvements in neuronal morphology and the modulation of Nissl bodies suggested a potential mechanism underlying its neuroprotective action. Additionally, B.glomerulata exhibited concentration-dependent reductions in Bax and Caspase-3 expressions, along with increases in GFAP, Bcl2/Bax ratio, p-PI3K, p-AKT, and p-mTOR levels. CONCLUSION: B.glomerulata exhibited neuroprotective effects against cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury both in vivo and in vitro. It prevented oxidative stress damage and inhibited apoptosis of ischemic stroke through the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway.