1.Evaluation of the interactions between flavonoid molecules and the active site of the MRXA7 protein using molecular docking
Amarjargal Ts ; Ariunzaya D ; Nurdana B ; Densmaa L ; Bilguun B ; Uugantsetseg D ; Temuulen Ts ; Baasanjav B ; Munkhzul B ; Daariimaa Kh
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2026;91(1):217-226
Background:
Skin wound healing, elasticity, and protective functions are closely associated with cellular regeneration and the remodeling of the extracellular matrix (ECM). MXRA7 (Matrix Remodeling Associated Protein 7) is a protein involved in ECM regulation, tissue regeneration, and inflammatory processes, and recent studies suggest that it may play a supportive role in skin wound healing. However, systematic investigations on natural small molecules capable of modulating MXRA7 activity remain limited. Flavonoids, on the other hand, have been reported to promote wound healing and ECM regulation through their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Therefore, it is hypothesized that flavonoid compounds may act as potential modulators of MXRA7 protein activity.
Aim:
The aim of this study was to evaluate the binding affinity, binding energy, and interaction characteristics of 14 naturally occurring flavonoid compounds with the active site of the MXRA7 protein using a molecular docking approach.
Materials and Methods:
The molecular structures of the flavonoids were obtained from the PubChem database, and their interactions with the MXRA7 protein were investigated using molecular docking with CB-Dock2 and SwissDock software. Docking results were visualized using PyMOL and evaluated based on root mean square deviation (RMSD), binding free energy (∆G), inhibition constant (Ki), pose ranking, and cluster analysis. An RMSD value of ≤ 2.0 Å was considered indicative of a stable binding pose.
Result:
The RMSD values of the MXRA7–flavonoid complexes ranged from 0.081 to 0.622 Å, indicating that all compounds stably occupied the binding cavity of the protein. Fisetin (0.081 Å), naringenin (0.107 Å), and hesperetin (0.107 Å) exhibited the lowest RMSD values, suggesting highly stable binding poses. The binding free energy (∆G) values ranged from −6.0 to −7.1 kcal/mol, with protopine showing the strongest binding affinity (∆G=−7.1 kcal/mol). Most flavonoids formed hydrogen bonds, hydrophobic interactions, and π–π interactions with key amino acid residues of MXRA7. Cluster analysis revealed that the majority of flavonoids shared a common binding mode, while fisetin, naringenin, and hesperetin formed a distinct subcluster with more stable binding poses. Ligand efficiency (LE) analysis indicated that chrysin, apigenin, and naringenin exhibited higher LE values, reflecting greater binding efficiency of smaller molecules.
Conclusion
This study demonstrates, through molecular docking analysis, that flavonoid compounds can stably interact with the active site of the MXRA7 protein. Protopine showed the strongest binding energy, whereas fisetin, naringenin, and hesperetin exhibited superior binding pose stability. These compounds may serve as potential bioactive molecules targeting MXRA7; however, further validation through molecular dynamics simulations and experimental studies is required.
2.Microscopic characteristics and quality evaluation of selected biologically active compounds in Panzerina lanata (L.)
Amarjargal Ts ; Enkhtuul B ; Nomin B ; Buyanjargal B ; Norovnyam R ; Munkhzul B ; Bilguun B ; Khongorzul Ch ; Uranbaigal S ; Daariimaa Kh
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2026;96(6):163-167
Background:
Panzerina lanata (L.) is widely distributed across various ecosystems in the mountain, steppe, and Gobi regions of Mongolia and has traditionally been used in folk medicine to alleviate joint and muscle inflammation, reduce liver heat, lower blood pressure, promote diuresis, and treat edema and tumors. Its similar applications in Mongolian and Chinese traditional medicine suggest considerable therapeutic potential and biological activity. Studies conducted since 2019 have reported that P.lanata (L.) is rich in phenolic compounds, flavonoids, and antioxidant-active constituents; however, studies on the microscopic and histochemical characteristics of the species growing under Mongolian conditions remain limited, providing the rationale for this study.
Aim:
To characterize the microscopic features of Panzerina lanata (L.), determine the distribution of starch, polysaccharides, and phenolic compounds using histochemical methods, and evaluate the total polyphenol and flavonoid contents and antioxidant activity.
Materials and Methods:
For microscopic analysis, plant materials were softened by soaking for 24 h in a 1:1:1 water–ethanol–glycerin mixture (Strich–Fleming solution), followed by preparation of manual transverse and longitudinal sections of the stems, roots, and petals. A 10% chloral hydrate solution was used for clearing. Histochemical analyses were performed using potassium dichromate (K₂Cr₂O₇), ferric chloride (FeCl₃), Lugol’s solution (I₂/KI), thymol (C₁₀H₁₄O) with concentrated sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄), methylene blue (C₁₆H₁₈ClN₃S), and Dragendorff’s reagent. The prepared sections were cleared with glycerin and examined under an Olympus light microscope at ×40 and ×100 magnifications, with images documented using a 12-MP camera.
Result:
Microscopic examination of the roots, stems, and petals revealed that the root stele exhibited a polyarchy arrangement, with clearly differentiated xylem, phloem, and cambial tissues in both transverse and longitudinal sections. Scalariform tracheary elements in the xylem contributed to water and mineral transport and mechanical support. The stem xylem contained both spiral and scalariform tracheary elements. The petals consisted of cells with double walls and single nuclei, while the floral seed tissue was composed of meristematic tissue associated with continuous cell division, growth, and tissue differentiation. Histochemical analysis of transverse and longitudinal sections of the stems and roots, as well as petal sections, revealed the presence of essential oils, polyphenolic compounds (tannins and flavonoids), and starch.
Conclusion
Microscopic, histochemical, and phytochemical analyses of Panzerina lanata (L.) revealed the presence of biologically active compounds, indicating its potential for use in the quality evaluation of medicinal plant raw materials.
3.Chronic kidney disease and serum NT-proBNP level
Sodgerel B ; Anudari I ; Buyandelger J ; Pilmaa Yo ; Gantogtokh D ; Yesukhei E ; Bilguun E ; Nyam-Erdene N ; Yundendash D ; Munkhbayar S ; Bolormaa Do ; Sarangerel Ga ; Munkhzul D ; Batbold B ; Sodnomtsogt L
Mongolian Medical Sciences 2024;210(4):9-17
Background:
Serum natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) is a critical biomarker for diagnosing left ventricular
dysfunction. Heart failure is the leading cause of mortality in chronic kidney disease (CKD),
emphasizing the need for its early detection and prognosis.
Objective:
This study aimed to determine the serum NT-proBNP levels in participants with CKD and
establish a cut-off value for predicting heart failure.
Methods:
A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from April 1 to July 1,2024. This study
received approval from the Ethics Committee of the Institute of Medical Sciences (Approval
No.24/01). A total of 117 CKD patients hospitalized in the Nephrology and Endocrinology
Department of the third state hospital were enrolled based on predefined inclusion and
exclusion criteria. Data were collected using questionnaires, laboratory and heart ultrasound
test results. Serum NT-proBNP levels were measured using a rapid immunofluorescence
quantitative analyzer. Data were analyzed with SPSS 26.0.
Results:
The mean age of the 117 participants was 57.9 ± 14.7 years, with 51.3% being male. The
mean serum NT-proBNP level was 7686 ± 12149 pg/mL. Statistically significant differences
were observed in serum creatinine, sodium, calcium, CKD stage, and arterial hypertension
between genders (p<0.05). NT-proBNP levels in hemodialysis patients differed significantly
between heart failure and non-heart failure groups (p<0.05). Significant differences were
also found in hemoglobin, serum albumin, NT-proBNP levels, and CKD stages (p<0.05).
NT-proBNP correlated significantly with risk factors such as hemodialysis, diabetes, and decreased systolic blood pressure (p<0.0001). A weak inverse relationship was noted
between systolic blood pressure and NT-proBNP (R² = 0.16). The NT-proBNP cut-off value
for predicting heart failure was 3027 pg/mL, with an AUC of 61.7% (sensitivity: 74.5%,
specificity: 55%).
Conclusion
Serum NT-proBNP levels are elevated in CKD patients regardless of heart
failure. The established cut-off value for NT-proBNP in CKD patients to detect heart failure
was 3027 pg/mL, with moderate diagnostic utility (AUC = 61.7%).
4.Assessment of secondary school indoor air quality
Suvd B ; Erdenetsetseg D ; Oyun-Erdene O ; Zul A ; Buuveidulam A ; Bilguun D ; Chinzorig B ; Suvd S ; Bayarbold D ; Burmaajav B
Mongolian Medical Sciences 2022;200(2):24-32
Introduction:
During this pandemic, overcrowding in classroom caused by a lack of educational facilities and poor indoor air quality are the main causes of respiratory diseases among children and adolescents. Therefore, it is essential to measure and assess the indoor air quality where children spend extended periods of time such as school.
Materials and methods:
This study covered four schools with old buildings and four schools with new buildings in Bayanzurkh, Sukhbaatar, Khan-Uul, Chingeltei district of Ulaanbaatar. We collected PM10 and PM2.5, carbon dioxide, air temperature, humidity, and microbiological count from chosen classrooms and compared to the MNS4585:2016 standard. SPSS-24 was used to do statistical analysis on the information gathered during the evaluation.
Results and Discussion:
The 24-hour average PM2.5 concentration was 64.3 (95% CI: 64.1-64.5) mcg/m3, which was 4.3 times higher than the WHO guideline value and 1.3 times higher than the MNS4585:2016 standard. The 24-hour average PM10 concentration was 85.3 (95 % CI: 85.1-85.6) mcg/m3, which is 1.9 times higher than WHO guideline value. In older school buildings, the 24-hour average PM2.5 concentration was 5.6 times higher than the WHO guideline value and 1.7 times higher than the MNS4585:2016; the average PM10 concentration was 2.8 times higher than the WHO guideline value and 1.3 times higher than the MNS4585:2016. The air temperature and carbon dioxide concentration in classroom was met the MNS4585: 2016. The average relative humidity of all schools is 24.2±6.5%, which is 14-16% lower than the MNS4585: 2016.
Conclusion
The indoor air quality of the school in new and old buildings was similar poor, therefore a variety of steps are needed to improve it.
5.A new diagnostic biomarker in early detection of Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Batchimeg B ; Baljinnyam T ; Khulan U ; Khaliun M ; Bilguun E ; Munkhtsetseg B ; Terguunbileg B ; Chinzorig M ; Gan-Erdene B ; Bilegtsaikhan Ts ; Erkhembulgan P ; Batbold B ; Munkhbat B ; Munkhtuvshin N ; Munkhbayar S
Mongolian Medical Sciences 2021;197(3):10-16
Background and Aims:
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a common cause of cancer related death
in Mongolia. Early diagnosis is the very important management to increase successful treatment
and survival rate. Glypican-3 (GPC3) protein is highly expressed in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC)
tissue and in serum of HCC patients. Recent studies have been conducted and suggested as a
diagnostic biomarker for detecting HCC in the early stage. Therefore, we investigated the diagnostic
value of the serum GPC3 level and compared it to the alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) level as a diagnostic
biomarker of HCC.
Methods:
We enrolled a total of 90 participants and divided into 3 groups with HCC (30), with liver
cirrhosis (LC/30) and healthy (30) as the control group (30). GPC3 and AFP serum (sGPC-3, sAFP)
levels were measured using commercially available enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kits. The
diagnostic accuracy was analyzed using the receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curve and
estimated sensitivity and specificity of each biomarker.
Results:
sGPC3 was significantly elevated in the HCC group as compared to liver cirrhosis and
healthy subjects (658±138.2 pg/ml, 378±25.5 pg/ml, 356.3±29 pg/ml) respectively. sGPC-3 sensitivity
was 96.6% and specificity was 100%. The area under the ROC curve (AUC) for GPC3 was 0.999
(0.996- 1.0).
In comparison, the mean of AFP was significantly higher in HCC (16.9±11.7 ng/ml) than in LC (6.7±7.6
ng/ml) and in healthy subject (3.3±2.1 ng/ml) and AFP sensitivity was 43,3 %, specificity was 95 %
with an AUC of 0.808 (0.696- 0.921).
The combination of GPC-3 with AFP achieved the highest sensitivity (97.1%) and specificity (97%).
Conclusion
Serum GPC3 has a higher sensitivity than AFP for the early diagnosis of HCC.
Combination of two markers showed greatest diagnostic accuracy.
6.The effects of Particulate matter (PМ2.5) pollutants on cancer cells in in vitro model
Baljinnyam T ; Bilguun E ; Batchimeg B ; Zolzaya D ; Lkhaasuren N ; Oyungerel G ; Munkhtsetseg B ; Khaliun M ; Khulan U ; Batkhishig M ; Uranbileg U ; Sonomdagva Ch ; Bilegtsaikhan Ts ; Munkhbayar S ; Munkhtuvshin N ; Erkhembulgan P
Mongolian Medical Sciences 2021;197(3):17-25
Introduction:
Air pollution has become one of the major problems in socio-economic and health
issues in Mongolia. Among the various hazards of particulate matter (PM) pollutants, microorganisms
in PM2.5 and PM10 are thought to be responsible for various allergies and for the spread of respiratory
diseases. Recent studies have shown that PM2.5 particles can cause chronic heart failure, heart
arrhythmias, and strokes, as well as lung damage, cirrhosis, inflammation, cancer, cardiovascular
disease, and metabolic disorders. Furthermore, some studies have concluded that PM2.5 particles
in the environment are a risk factor for gastrointestinal, liver, colon, and lung cancer as well as it
affects the growth and metastasis of various cancer cells caused by other factors. In our country, the
health effects of air pollution and the relationship between the pathogenesis of cancer research are
scarce. Therefore, the study of the effects of PM2.5 particles on cancer cell proliferation, migration
(metastasis) can provide a significant role for cancer treatment, diagnosis, and prevention.
Purpose:
Determining the effects of PM2.5 particles on cancer cell proliferation, migration (metastasis)
in in-vitro
Material and Methods:
A human liver cancer cell line (HepG2), human gastric cancer cell line (AGS)
were obtained from the central scientific research laboratory in the Institute of medical sciences.
HepG2, AGS cells were seeded at a concentration of 1*105 cells/mL in a culture flask and cultured
in RPMI-1640 medium supplemented with 10% FBS, 1% antibiotic mix (penicillin, streptomycin) in a
humidified atmosphere of 5% CO2 at 37 °C. The cytotoxic effect of PM 2.5 in AGS, HepG2 cells were
evaluated by MTT, CCK8 assays. AGS, HepG2 cells were incubated in 96 well plates for 24h then
treated with different concentrations (0, 5, 10, 25, 50 and 100 μg ) of Bayankhoshuu, Buhiin urguu,
and Zaisan samples for 24h, respectively.
Results:
Concentrations of 10, 25, and 50 μg/ml of samples collected from the Bukhiin urguu and
Zaisan in March increased HepG2 cell growth, while doses of 25, 50 μg/ml of samples collected from
Bayankhoshuu in March and December increased HepG2 cell growth. Therefore, concentrations of
25 and 50 μg/ml of samples collected from Bayankhoshuu in March increased AGS cell growth, while concentrations of 25, 100 and μg/ml of samples collected in December increased AGS cell growth.
However, no cytotoxic effect was observed in the sample collected from Zaisan in March, whereas
the PM2.5 sample enhanced AGS cell growth in dose dependent manner in December.(p <0.05)
Conclusion
High levels of heavy metals were detected in samples collected in December from
Bayankhoshuu, Bukhiin urguu and Zaisan of Ulaanbaatar. Concentration of 25 μg/ml of samples
collected from the Bukhiin urguu and Zaisan in March increased HepG2 cell growth. Concentrations
of 25 μg/ml of PM2.5 collected from three regions around Ulaanbaatar increased HepG2 and AGS
cell migration.
7.Involvement of Vitamin D in Immune system
Baljinnyam T ; Batchimeg B ; Zolzaya D ; Ganchimeg D ; Lkhaasuren N ; Oyungerel G ; Munkhtsetseg B ; Khaliun M ; Khulan U ; Bilguun E ; Batkhishig M ; Tulgaa L ; Bilegtsaikhan Ts ; Munkhbayar S ; Munkhtuvshin N ; Munkhbat B
Mongolian Medical Sciences 2020;192(2):51-59
Research of function of vitamin D on immune system has been studying since the study revealed
that vitamin D receptor is expressed on the surface of the immune cells. 1,2-dihydroxyvitamin
D3 [1,25(OH)2D], physiologically active form, can be generated through hydroxylation of
25-hydroxyvitamin D3 [25(OH)D], inactive form of vitamin D, in a liver, connecting with specific VDR
make biological action. Vitamin D make different biological actions depends on connecting with
different immunological cells. Some studies indicated that Vitamin D plays pivotal role in antibacterial
innate immune responses through regulating reaction of the main cells as macrophages and dendritic
cells. Moreover, calcitriol, the active form of vitamin D, is connected with VDRE, modulates the innate
immune response through directly inducing expression of catelicithin and β-defensin as antimicrobial
peptides, reducing secretion of IL-1b, IL-6, TNF-a, RANKL, COX-2 as proinflammatory cytokines and
increasing production of IL-10, an anti-inflammatory cytokine. Vitamin D plays in proliferation and
differentiation of T and B cells and regulates the activities of over 500 genes. Vitamin D differently
impacts on per se stages of T cells’ proliferation. Vitamin D indirectly mitigates the differentiation from
immature B cells to plasma B cells while it directly impacts on regulation of overloaded production of
antibodies in plasma B cells. In conclusion, vitamin D modulates the innate- and adaptive immune
response through regulation on activation of APCells, proliferation and differentiation of immune cells,
secretion of some antibacterial peptides.
8. THE TREATMENT OUTCOME OF HEPATOCELLULAR CANCER
Gan-Erdene B ; Chinburen J ; Narmandakh TS ; Altanchimeg N ; Onon B ; Sanchin U ; Bilguun G ; Ankhbayar E ; Tuvshinbayar M
Journal of Surgery 2016;19(1):37-40
Introduction: Hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC) is the 6th most common cancer inthe world, but the first most commoncause of cancer death in Mongolia. Thereis no universally accepted consensuspractice guidelines for HCC owing to rapiddevelopments in new treatment modalities,the heterogeneous epidemiology and clinicalpresentation of HCC worldwide.Methods and Materials: This study wasconducted in the department of generalsurgery of Second Central Hospital ofMongolia between 2015 and 2016 on a totalof 36 patients with hepatocellular carcinoma.Results: The average of operationtime is a 132.2 min, the hospital stay 18.2days. Postoperative bleeding was 2.7% (1),encephalopathy 5.4% (2), wound infection5.4% (2), and incisional hernia 8.1% (3).There were not bile leak during 30 dayspostoperative day.Conclusion: Postoperative complicationis a comparable to different researcher.There were no death within first month.
9.Study result of some treatment effects in collagen induced arthritis mouse model
Khongorzul B ; Bilguun E ; Undarmaa E ; Tuul B ; Gudegmaa TS ; Choijamts G ; Chimedtseren S
Mongolian Medical Sciences 2012;162(4):111-117
IntroductionRheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is chronic systemic inflammatory autoimmune disorder that still remains a disease of unknown etiology and complex disease without a single treatment that is dominated by serious and debilitating sequalae resulting from synovial membrane, cartilage and progressive joint destruction involvement. There is a one major obstacle in elucidating the early events in the pathogenesis of RA has been the lack of definition of the initial features of the disease. To overcome these difficulties, various animal models have been developed. But Collagen Induced Arthritis (CIA) mouse model is known to be the most valuable animal model to explore the pathogenic process, molecular and cellular mechanisms of joint destruction, to discover the immune system respond and activation and to develop new effective treatment methods and useful drugs [1].Materials and Methods:Within this study we have used 40 male mice at age 6-8 weeksfor 0-60 days and divided into following 4 groups which are:I group–CIA induced mouse group treated with Derveger Jirgeruu (Saposhnicovia divaricata) (n=12) II group–CIA induced mouse group treated with Natriisalicylas (10%) (n=12) III group–Healthy control mouse group (n=8) IV group–CIA inducedcontrol mouse group (n=8). To induce CIA model, we have used standard method of Murali /2005/’s design. Standard drug Natriisalicylas (10mg/ 20gr), one of the often used drug anti-inflammatory and Mongolian herbal plant Derveger jirgeruu (Saposhnicovia divaricate) (0.26mg/20gr) were daily administered by orally, starting on day 21 until day 60.To evaluate and compare 2 drug’s anti-inflammatory effect, we have done clinical score evaluation (Kim W.U, 2002), laboratory testing and histological examination of the joints using standard methods.ResultTo summarize the research result, both medications have proven to be as a medication which has anti-inflammatory effect that decreased the signs and symptoms of RA by it is histological and laboratory analysis.Conclusions:1. CIA model was effectively induced, which have proven by clinical signs, laboratory result and histological examination.2. Within this study it has proven that traditional herbal medicine Derveger Jirgeruu (Saposhnicovia divaricate) (0.26mg/20g) have anti-inflammatory effect on CIA induced mouse model of Rheumatoid Arthritis, which have had similar effect asstandard non-steroid medicine Natriisalicylas (10mg/20g).
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