An investigation of the pharmacological effects of Nao Xin Qing (NXQ), a standardised herbal extract, for ischaemic stroke : in vitro and in vivo

Abstract

Stroke is one of the major causes of death and disability worldwide. Ischaemic stroke constitutes 80% of stroke incidents. Reperfusion injury following ischaemic stroke has been shown to contribute to major neurological damages. Current conventional treatments for ischaemic stroke, whether surgical or pharmaceutical, focus on restoring cerebral blood flow and preventing expansion of ischaemic damage, but have limited impact on neuron damage or restoring damaged neurological functionalities. Nao Xin Qing (NXQ), a standardised, patented herbal extract derived from Diospyros kaki L., offers potential therapeutic for apoplexy syndrome, including ischaemic stroke. However, NXQ's effects on ischaemic stroke are unclear. In particular, the mechanisms underlying NXQ's effects and the key active components responsible for these effects, are not fully understood. This study aims to determine the effects of NXQ and its role in the treatment of ischaemic stroke. The study comprised of two parts. First part to determine the effects of NXQ for ischaemic stroke by evaluating its vascular protective effects and angiogenic effects. This study further identifies the chemical profiles of the NXQ extract and determines which compound/s are responsible for the therapeutic functions for ischaemic stroke. The second part of the study aimed to evaluate the clinical effects of NXQ on ischaemic stroke patients. A study protocol for a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was developed to facilitate future studies on the clinical efficacy and safety profile of NXQ for ischaemic stroke patients. NXQ possesses vascular protective effects against H2O2-induced damage that may protect endothelial cells from reperfusion-induced damage. Additionally, NXQ possesses potential angiogenesis and revascularisation properties, which may contribute to its therapeutic action during ischaemic stroke recovery.

Date of Award	2019
Original language	English