Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 9, 2026
Evaluation of Host-Pathogen Responses and Vaccine Efficacy in Mice
Published on: February 22, 2019
A traditional botanical formula attenuates acute pharyngitis in mice through anti-inflammatory and
Xinyu Zhang1,2, Wenyuan Li1,3, Qinghua Xie1,3
1Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Brain Disorders & Institute of Basic and Translational Medicine, Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an, China.
Introduction:
Acute pharyngitis is a common upper respiratory tract infectious disease worldwide. The increasing prevalence of multidrug‑resistant pathogens, particularly methicillin‑resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), greatly hinders clinical treatment and predisposes patients to recurrent and persistent inflammation. Consequently, there is an urgent need for safe and effective alternative therapeutic agents.
Methods:
This research focused on examining the protective effects of a traditional sore‑throat composite phytoextract (TSCP) formulated from edible medicinal natural ingredients, while also investigating its underlying mechanisms. An ammonia‑induced acute pharyngitis murine model was employed. Network pharmacology was used to screen potential bioactive components and key therapeutic targets, followed by the molecular biological validation. In vitro assays assessed the antibacterial and anti‑biofilm activities of TSCP.
Results And Discussion:
TSCP dose‑dependently ameliorated abnormal behavioral manifestations, alleviated pharyngeal histopathological injury, and reduced inflammatory cell infiltration in the model mice. Network pharmacology identified 22 potential bioactive components and 174 key therapeutic targets, which were mainly enriched in the PI3K/AKT and NF‑κB signaling pathways. Subsequent molecular validation confirmed that TSCP modulated the PI3K/AKT/NF‑κB signaling axis and significantly downregulated the downstream inflammatory mediators iNOS, COX‑2, and IL‑6. Hematological results showed that TSCP decreased peripheral leukocyte, lymphocyte, and neutrophil levels, indicating a favorable systemic anti‑inflammatory effect. In vitro antimicrobial assays demonstrated that TSCP exhibited broad‑spectrum activity against S. aureus, MRSA, and E. coli with minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values of 32, 64, and 256 μg/mL, respectively; and the minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) for each strain was twice its corresponding MIC. TSCP also concentration‑dependently inhibited bacterial adhesion, disrupted cell membrane integrity, and destroyed biofilm microstructure. Collectively, TSCP exerts prominent protective effects against acute pharyngitis through dual mechanisms: suppression of the inflammatory response via the PI3K/AKT/NF‑κB pathway, and direct broad‑spectrum antibacterial and anti‑biofilm activities in vitro. This study provides solid experimental evidence supporting the modern application of the compound herbal preparation TSCP, suggesting that TSCP is a promising candidate for the prevention and adjunctive treatment of drug‑resistant bacteria‑associated acute pharyngitis.
Insights
This study shows that a traditional sore-throat composite phytoextract (TSCP) effectively treats acute pharyngitis by reducing inflammation and fighting drug-resistant bacteria. TSCP offers a promising natural alternative for managing bacterial infections and pharyngitis.
Area of Science:
- Phytochemistry
- Pharmacology
- Microbiology
Background:
- Acute pharyngitis is a common global infection.
- Multidrug-resistant pathogens like MRSA complicate treatment, necessitating novel therapeutic strategies.
- Traditional herbal medicines offer potential alternative treatments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the therapeutic effects and mechanisms of a traditional sore-throat composite phytoextract (TSCP) against acute pharyngitis.
- To evaluate TSCP's efficacy in an ammonia-induced pharyngitis murine model.
- To assess TSCP's antibacterial and anti-biofilm properties in vitro.
Main Methods:
- An ammonia-induced acute pharyngitis murine model was utilized.
- Network pharmacology screened bioactive components and therapeutic targets.
- Molecular validation confirmed effects on PI3K/AKT/NF-κB signaling pathways.
- In vitro assays assessed antibacterial and anti-biofilm activities.
Main Results:
- TSCP dose-dependently reduced pharyngeal inflammation and injury in mice.
- Network pharmacology identified key targets enriched in PI3K/AKT and NF-κB pathways.
- TSCP modulated the PI3K/AKT/NF-κB axis, downregulating inflammatory mediators.
- In vitro, TSCP demonstrated broad-spectrum antibacterial activity against S. aureus, MRSA, and E. coli, and inhibited biofilm formation.
Conclusions:
- TSCP alleviates acute pharyngitis through anti-inflammatory effects via the PI3K/AKT/NF-κB pathway.
- TSCP exhibits direct broad-spectrum antibacterial and anti-biofilm activities.
- TSCP is a promising candidate for preventing and treating drug-resistant bacteria-associated acute pharyngitis.
Related Concept Videos
01:30Acute Pharyngitis
Acute pharyngitis is the inflammation of the back of the throat (pharynx), commonly resulting in a sore throat. It is a frequently encountered condition that prompts individuals to seek medical advice.
Classification
Acute pharyngitis can be categorized based on its underlying cause:
01:27Streptococcal Pharyngitis
01:23Chronic Pharyngitis
Etiology
It often arises from persistent viral or bacterial infections affecting sinuses and tonsils.
Additional contributing factors include inadequate dental hygiene, mouth breathing, recurring tonsillitis, allergic rhinitis, laryngopharyngeal reflux, and exposure to smoke, chemicals, and other environmental pollutants. Allergic reactions to pollen, mold, and pet dander, chronic cough, excessive voice usage,...
01:28Gene Regulation in Microbial Communities: Quorum Sensing