Research Progress of Wuling San and the Active Components of Its Constituent Herbs in Chronic Kidney Disease
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.62051/kcwt5405Keywords:
Wuling San; Chronic kidney disease; Active components; Mechanism of action; Clinical application.Abstract
Objective. To systematically review the current clinical application of the classical formula Wuling San (WLS) in chronic kidney disease (CKD), to explore in depth the mechanisms of action of the active components of its constituent herbs, and to provide a theoretical basis and research directions for the further development of WLS and the traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) prevention and treatment of CKD. Methods. Relevant domestic and international literature was retrieved. The clinical application of WLS and its modified formulations in common chronic kidney diseases—such as nephrotic syndrome, chronic glomerulonephritis and diabetic kidney disease—as well as the pharmacological actions of the core bioactive components of the five constituent herbs (Poria cocos, Alismatis Rhizoma, Polyporus umbellatus, Atractylodis Macrocephalae Rhizoma and Cinnamomi Ramulus) were summarized from the two dimensions of clinical research and basic-mechanism research. Results. When combined with conventional Western medical therapy, WLS and its modified formulations markedly enhance the clinical efficacy in CKD patients, improving renal-function indices, attenuating inflammatory responses and relieving edema. The underlying mechanisms mainly involve the regulation of multiple signaling pathways such as NF-κB/NLRP3 and RAS/TGF-β1/Smad, thereby exerting anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-fibrotic and anti-apoptotic effects. Pachymic acid, alisma polysaccharides, ergosterol, atractylenolides and cinnamaldehyde, among others, are the key active constituents responsible for the reno-protective actions. Conclusion. Wuling San demonstrates definite therapeutic efficacy and broad research prospects in the treatment of chronic kidney disease.
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