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Chin AC, Baskin LB. Effect of Herbal Supplement–Drug Interactions on Therapeutic Drug Monitoring. Ther Drug Monit 2012. [DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-385467-4.00019-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
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Cavuşoğlu K, Yapar K, Oruç E, Yalçın E. Protective effect of Ginkgo biloba L. leaf extract against glyphosate toxicity in Swiss albino mice. J Med Food 2011; 14:1263-72. [PMID: 21859351 DOI: 10.1089/jmf.2010.0202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to investigate the protective role of Ginkgo biloba L. leaf extract against the active agent of Roundup® herbicide (Monsanto, Creve Coeur, MO, USA). The Swiss Albino mice were randomly divided into six groups, with each group consisting of six animals: Group I (control) received an intraperitoneal injection of dimethyl sulfoxide (0.2 mL, once only), Group II received glyphosate at a dose of 50 mg/kg of body weight, Group III received G. biloba at a dose of 50 mg/kg of body weight, Group IV received G. biloba at a dose of 150 mg/kg of body weight, Group V received G. biloba (50 mg/kg of body weight) and glyphosate (50 mg/kg of body weight), and Group VI received G. biloba (150 mg/kg of body weight) and glyphosate (50 mg/kg of body weight). The single dose of glyphosate was given intraperitoneally. Animals from all the groups were sacrificed at the end of 72 hours, and their blood, bone marrow, and liver and kidney tissues were analyzed for aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine, malondialdehyde (MDA), and glutathione (GSH) levels and the presence of micronucleus (MN), chromosomal aberrations (CAs), and pathological damages. The results indicated that serum AST, ALT, BUN, and creatinine levels significantly increased in mice treated with glyphosate alone compared with the other groups (P<.05). Besides, glyphosate-induced oxidative damage caused a significant decrease in GSH levels and a significant increase in MDA levels of the liver and kidney tissues. Moreover, glyphosate alone-treated mice presented higher frequencies of CAs, MNs, and abnormal metaphases compared with the controls (P<.05). These mice also displayed a lower mean mitotic index than the controls (P<.05). Treatment with G. biloba produced amelioration in indices of hepatotoxicity, nephrotoxicity, lipid peroxidation, and genotoxicity relative to Group II. Each dose of G. biloba provided significant protection against glyphosate-induced toxicity, and the strongest effect was observed at a dose of 150 mg/kg of body weight. Thus, in vivo results showed that G. biloba extract is a potent protector against glyphosate-induced toxicity, and its protective role is dose-dependent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kültiğin Cavuşoğlu
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science and Arts, Giresun University, Giresun, Turkey.
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Park JW, Kwon HJ, Chung WS, Kim CY, Seong GJ. Short-term effects of Ginkgo biloba extract on peripapillary retinal blood flow in normal tension glaucoma. KOREAN JOURNAL OF OPHTHALMOLOGY 2011; 25:323-8. [PMID: 21976939 PMCID: PMC3178766 DOI: 10.3341/kjo.2011.25.5.323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2010] [Accepted: 10/06/2010] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Based on the vascular theory of glaucoma pathogenesis, we wanted to evaluate the effect of Ginkgo biloba extract (GBE) on peripapillary blood flow in patients with normal tension glaucoma (NTG). Methods Thirty patients with NTG were randomly placed in the GBE-treated or control groups. The GBE-treated group received 80 mg GBE orally, twice a day for four weeks, and the control group received a placebo twice a day for four weeks. Complete ocular examinations including visual field, Heidelberg retina flowmeter, and systemic examinations were performed on the first study day and on the day treatment was completed. Results After GBE treatment, the mean blood flow, volume, and velocity increased at almost all points, and there was a statistically significant increase in blood flow at almost all points, in comparison to the placebo. Blood volume significantly increased only in the superior nasal and superior temporal neuroretinal rim areas. GBE also significantly increased blood velocity in areas of the inferior temporal neuroretinal rim and superior temporal peripapillary area. Conclusions GBE administration appears to have desirable effect on ocular blood flow in NTG patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jong Woon Park
- Department of Ophthalmology, NHIC Ilsan Hospital, Goyang, Korea.
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Curtis-Prior P, Vere D, Robbins T, Fray P. Therapeutic value of Ginkgo in reducing symptoms of decline in mental function. J Pharm Pharmacol 2011. [DOI: 10.1111/j.2042-7158.1998.tb02219.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Duncan Vere
- Cambridge Research Institute, Applied Sciences, APU, Cambridge CB1 1PT
| | - Trevor Robbins
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Cambridge, CB2 3EB
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Bernatoniene J, Majiene D, Peciura R, Laukeviciene A, Bernatoniene R, Mekas T, Kasauskas A, Kopustinskiene D. The Effect of Ginkgo biloba
Extract on Mitochondrial Oxidative Phosphorylation in the Normal and Ischemic Rat Heart. Phytother Res 2011; 25:1054-60. [DOI: 10.1002/ptr.3399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jurga Bernatoniene
- Department of Drug Technology and Social Pharmacy; Kaunas University of Medicine; A. Mickeviciaus str. 9 LT-44307 Kaunas Lithuania
| | - Daiva Majiene
- Department of Drug Technology and Social Pharmacy; Kaunas University of Medicine; A. Mickeviciaus str. 9 LT-44307 Kaunas Lithuania
- Institute for Biomedical Research; Kaunas University of Medicine; Eiveniu str. 4 LT-50009 Kaunas Lithuania
| | - Rimantas Peciura
- Department of Drug Technology and Social Pharmacy; Kaunas University of Medicine; A. Mickeviciaus str. 9 LT-44307 Kaunas Lithuania
| | - Ale Laukeviciene
- Department of Physiology; Kaunas University of Medicine; Kaunas, A. Mickeviciaus str. 9 LT-44307 Kaunas Lithuania
| | - Ruta Bernatoniene
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry; Kaunas University of Medicine; A. Mickeviciaus str. 9 LT-44307 Kaunas Lithuania
| | - Tauras Mekas
- Department of Drug Technology and Social Pharmacy; Kaunas University of Medicine; A. Mickeviciaus str. 9 LT-44307 Kaunas Lithuania
| | - Arturas Kasauskas
- Department of Biochemistry; Kaunas University of Medicine; Eiveniu str. 4 LT-50009 Kaunas Lithuania
| | - Dalia Kopustinskiene
- Institute for Biomedical Research; Kaunas University of Medicine; Eiveniu str. 4 LT-50009 Kaunas Lithuania
- Department of Biochemistry; Kaunas University of Medicine; Eiveniu str. 4 LT-50009 Kaunas Lithuania
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Review and meta-analysis of usage of ginkgo as an adjunct therapy in chronic schizophrenia. Int J Neuropsychopharmacol 2010; 13:257-71. [PMID: 19775502 DOI: 10.1017/s1461145709990654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to review the roles of antioxidants in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia, whether the properties of ginkgo can ameliorate symptoms of this illness, and evaluate available literature to test this assumption. This review is based upon published works on antioxidants and ginkgo. A primary electronic search for meta-analysis on the usage of ginkgo or its derived products in schizophrenia was conducted using Pubmed, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, CINAHL, PsycINFO and AMED. Inclusion criteria were: criteria-based diagnosis of schizophrenia, randomized case assignment, use of ginkgo as an add-on therapy, and assessment using standardized rating scales to measure the state of psychopathology for negative and total symptoms of schizophrenia. Additionally, a detailed review was undertaken to investigate if antioxidants are involved in development of psychotic symptoms in schizophrenia. The six studies that fulfilled the selection criteria were constituted of 466 cases on ginkgo and 362 cases on placebo. They all used the Scale for the Assessment of Negative Symptoms (SANS) to measure negative symptoms, and the Scale for the Assessment of Positive Symptoms (SAPS) or the Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale (BPRS) to measure total symptoms. Difference between ginkgo and control groups from their pre- and post-trial scores and its pooled standard deviation were used to compute standardized mean difference (SMD). Ginkgo as an add-on therapy to antipsychotic medication produced statistically significant moderate improvement (SMD=-0.50) in total and negative symptoms of chronic schizophrenia. Ginkgo as add-on therapy ameliorates the symptoms of chronic schizophrenia. The role of antioxidants in pathogenesis of schizophrenia has also been explored.
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Chan A, Remington R, Kotyla E, Lepore A, Zemianek J, Shea TB. A vitamin/nutriceutical formulation improves memory and cognitive performance in community-dwelling adults without dementia. J Nutr Health Aging 2010; 14:224-30. [PMID: 20191258 DOI: 10.1007/s12603-010-0054-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Adults of both genders without dementia consumed a nutriceutical formulation ("NF," consisting of folic acid, B12, Vitamin E, S-adenosylmethionine, N-acetyl cysteine and Acetyl-L-carnitine), previously shown to improve cognitive performance in Alzheimer's disease, or placebo. Participants receiving NF but not placebo improved statistically and clinically in the California Verbal Learning Test II and the Trail-Making Test. Both groups improved further during a 3-month open-label extension. Additional individuals displayed identical improvement during a separate 6-month open-label trial. Performance declined to baseline following withdrawal of NF, and statistically improved when participants resumed taking NF. Additional participants receiving NF but not placebo demonstrated improvement within 2 weeks in Trail-making and Digit-Memory tests; both groups improved in a 2-week open-label extension. An increased percentage of participants > or = 74 years of age did not show improvement with NF, which may relate to age-related difficulties in adsorption and/or basal nutritional deficiencies, or age-related cognitive decline during the course of this study. These findings support the benefit of nutritional supplements for cognitive performance and suggest that additional supplementation may be required for the elderly.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Chan
- Center for Cell Neurobiology and Neurodegeneration Research, University of Massachusetts, Lowell, Lowell MA 01854, USA
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Kapoor VK, Dureja J, Chadha R. Herbals in the control of ageing. Drug Discov Today 2009; 14:992-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2009.06.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2008] [Revised: 05/01/2009] [Accepted: 06/16/2009] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
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Kudolo GB, Wang W, Dorsey S, Blodgett J. Oral Ingestion ofGinkgo bilobaExtract Reduces Thiobarbituric Acid Reacting (TBAR) Substances in Washed Platelets of Healthy Subjects. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2009. [DOI: 10.1080/j157v03n04_01] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Extracts of the leaves of the maidenhair tree, Ginkgo biloba, have long been used in China as a traditional medicine for various disorders of health. A standardized extract is widely prescribed for the treatment of a range of conditions including memory and concentration problems, confusion, depression, anxiety, dizziness, tinnitus and headache. The mechanisms of action are thought to reflect the action of several components of the extract and include increasing blood supply by dilating blood vessels, reducing blood viscosity, modification of neurotransmitter systems, and reducing the density of oxygen free radicals. OBJECTIVES To assess the efficacy and safety of Ginkgo biloba for dementia or cognitive decline. SEARCH STRATEGY The Specialized Register of the Cochrane Dementia and Cognitive Improvement Group (CDCIG), The Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsycINFO, CINAHL and LILACS were searched on 20 September 2007 using the terms: ginkgo*, tanakan, EGB-761, EGB761, "EGB 761" and gingko*. The CDCIG Specialized Register contains records from all major health care databases (The Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsycINFO, CINAHL, LILACS) as well as from many trials databases and grey literature sources. SELECTION CRITERIA Randomized, double-blind studies, in which extracts of Ginkgo biloba at any strength and over any period were compared with placebo for their effects on people with acquired cognitive impairment, including dementia, of any degree of severity. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Data were extracted from the published reports of the included studies, pooled where appropriate and the treatment effects or the risks and benefits estimated. MAIN RESULTS 36 trials were included but most were small and of duration less than three months. Nine trials were of six months duration (2016 patients). These longer trials were the more recent trials and generally were of adequate size, and conducted to a reasonable standard. Most trials tested the same standardised preparation of Ginkgo biloba, EGb 761, at different doses, which are classified as high or low. The results from the more recent trials showed inconsistent results for cognition, activities of daily living, mood, depression and carer burden. Of the four most recent trials to report results three found no difference between Ginkgo biloba and placebo, and one found very large treatment effects in favour of Ginkgo biloba.There are no significant differences between Ginkgo biloba and placebo in the proportion of participants experiencing adverse events.A subgroup analysis including only patients diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease (925 patients from nine trials) also showed no consistent pattern of any benefit associated with Ginkgo biloba. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS Ginkgo biloba appears to be safe in use with no excess side effects compared with placebo. Many of the early trials used unsatisfactory methods, were small, and publication bias cannot be excluded. The evidence that Ginkgo biloba has predictable and clinically significant benefit for people with dementia or cognitive impairment is inconsistent and unreliable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacqueline Birks
- Centre for Statistics in Medicine, University of Oxford, Wolfson College, Linton Road, Oxford, UK, OX2 6UD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janette Vardy
- Department of Medical Oncology, The University of Sydney, Cancer Institute NSW, Sydney, Concord, Australia.
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Jiang L, Fang G, Zhang Y, Cao G, Wang S. Analysis of flavonoids in propolis and Ginkgo biloba by micellar electrokinetic capillary chromatography. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2008; 56:11571-11577. [PMID: 19053353 DOI: 10.1021/jf802567r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
A micellar electrokinetic capillary chromatography (MEKC) method has been developed for simultaneous determination of 10 bioactive flavonoids: rutin, apigenin, luteolin, eriodictyol, kaempferol, chrysin, acacetin, flavanone, flavone, and fisetin. The effect of several parameters, such as UV detection wavelength, buffer pH, buffer concentration, sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) concentration, beta-cyclodextrin (beta-CD) concentration, separation voltage, and injection time on the separation of these flavonoids were systematically investigated. The 10 flavonoids were successfully separated within 18 min in 20 mM Na(2)B(4)O(7)-10 mM NaH(2)PO(4) buffer (pH 9.7) containing 100 mM SDS and 16 mM beta-CD at a separation voltage of 19 kV, with UV detection at 254 nm. Regression analysis revealed a good linear relationship between the peak area of each analyte and its concentration with detection limits (S/N = 3), ranging from 0.15 to 1.36 microg mL(-1). This method could simultaneously quantify the 10 flavonoids and be used in the quality control of functional foods containing propolis and Ginkgo biloba.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liqin Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Safety, Ministry of Education of China, Tianjin University of Science and Technology, Tianjin 300457, China
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Abstract
Although very few drugs are currently approved by regulatory authorities for treating multi-factorial ailments and disorders of cognition such as Alzheimer's disease, certain plant-derived agents, including, for example, galantamine and rivastigmine (a semi-synthetic derivative of physostigmine) are finding an application in modern medicine. However, in Ayurveda, the Indian traditional system of medicine which is more than 5000 years old, selected plants have long been classified as 'medhya rasayanas', from the Sanskrit words 'medhya', meaning intellect or cognition, and 'rasayana', meaning 'rejuvenation'. These plants are used both in herbal and conventional medicine and offer benefits that pharmaceutical drugs lack. In the present article, an attempt has been made to review the most important medicinal plants, including Ginkgo biloba, St John's wort, Kava-kava, Valerian, Bacopa monniera and Convolvulus pluricaulis, which are widely used for their reputed effectiveness in CNS disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vikas Kumar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Texas Tech University, Health Sciences Center, School of Pharmacy, Amarillo, TX 79106, USA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gail B. Mahady
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Program for Collaborative Research in the Pharmaceutical Sciences, UIC/NIH Center for Botanical Dietary Supplements Research, College of Pharmacy,
University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
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Effects of long-term administration of a cocoa polyphenolic extract (Acticoa powder) on cognitive performances in aged rats. Br J Nutr 2008; 100:94-101. [PMID: 18179729 DOI: 10.1017/s0007114507886375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Numerous studies have indicated that increased vulnerability to oxidative stress may be the main factor involved in functional declines during normal and pathological ageing, and that antioxidant agents, such as polyphenols, may improve or prevent these deficits. We examined whether 1-year administration of a cocoa polyphenolic extract (Acticoa powder), orally delivered at the dose of 24 mg/kg per d between 15 and 27 months of age, affects the onset of age-related cognitive deficits, urinary free dopamine levels and lifespan in old Wistar-Unilever rats. Acticoa powder improved cognitive performances in light extinction and water maze paradigms, increased lifespan and preserved high urinary free dopamine levels. These results suggest that Acticoa powder may be beneficial in retarding age-related brain impairments, including cognitive deficits in normal ageing and perhaps neurodegenerative diseases. Further studies are required to elucidate the mechanisms of cocoa polyphenols in neuroprotection and to explore their effects in man.
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Tada Y, Kagota S, Kubota Y, Nejime N, Nakamura K, Kunitomo M, Shinozuka K. Long-Term Feeding of Ginkgo biloba Extract Impairs Peripheral Circulation and Hepatic Function in Aged Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats. Biol Pharm Bull 2008; 31:68-72. [DOI: 10.1248/bpb.31.68] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Yukari Tada
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Mukogawa Women's University
| | - Satomi Kagota
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Mukogawa Women's University
| | - Yoko Kubota
- Department of Biopharmaceutics, Nihon Pharmaceutical University
| | - Namie Nejime
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Mukogawa Women's University
| | - Kazuki Nakamura
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Mukogawa Women's University
| | - Masaru Kunitomo
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Mukogawa Women's University
| | - Kazumasa Shinozuka
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Mukogawa Women's University
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Abstract
The already considerable public health burden of Alzheimer's disease will likely worsen as populations around the world age. As a result, there is considerable motivation to develop effective strategies for preventing the disease. A wide variety of such strategies are under investigation and include pharmaceuticals, nutriceuticals, diet, physical activity and cognitive activity. We review here the most promising candidates and the epidemiologic evidence for their efficacy. Although none of these have yet to be definitively shown to prevent Alzheimer's disease, further research should help to clarify what role they may play in reducing the burden of this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- C A Szekely
- Department of Mental Health, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Zou W, Kim BO, Zhou BY, Liu Y, Messing A, He JJ. Protection against human immunodeficiency virus type 1 Tat neurotoxicity by Ginkgo biloba extract EGb 761 involving glial fibrillary acidic protein. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2007; 171:1923-35. [PMID: 18055541 DOI: 10.2353/ajpath.2007.070333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-1 Tat protein is an important pathogenic factor in HIV-associated neuropathogenesis. Despite recent progress, the molecular mechanisms underlying Tat neurotoxicity are still not completely understood. However, few therapeutics have been developed to specifically target HIV infection in the brain. Recent development of an inducible brain-specific Tat transgenic mouse model has made it possible to define the mechanisms of Tat neurotoxicity and evaluate anti-neuroAIDS therapeutic candidates in the context of a whole organism. Herein, we demonstrate that administration of EGb 761, a standardized formulation of Ginkgo biloba extract, markedly protected Tat transgenic mice from Tat-induced developmental retardation, inflammation, death, astrocytosis, and neuron loss. EGb 761 directly down-regulated glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) expression at both protein and mRNA levels. This down-regulation was, at least in part, attributable to direct effects of EGb 761 on the interactions of the AP1 and NF-kappaB transcription factors with the GFAP promoter. Most strikingly, Tat-induced neuropathological phenotypes including macrophage/microglia activation, central nervous system infiltration of T lymphocytes, and oxidative stress were significantly alleviated in GFAP-null/Tat transgenic mice. Taken together, these results provide the first evidence to support the potential for clinical use of EGb 761 to treat HIV-associated neurological diseases. Moreover, these findings suggest for the first time that GFAP activation is directly involved in Tat neurotoxicity, supporting the notion that astrocyte activation or astrocytosis may directly contribute to HIV-associated neurological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Zou
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Indiana University School of Medicine, R2 302, 950 W. Walnut St., Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
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Vardy J, Tannock I. Cognitive function after chemotherapy in adults with solid tumours. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2007; 63:183-202. [PMID: 17678745 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2007.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 154] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2007] [Revised: 05/29/2007] [Accepted: 06/07/2007] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Evidence is emerging that some cancer survivors suffer cognitive impairment after chemotherapy; the cause is unknown. METHODS Here we review studies evaluating cognitive impairment in adult cancer survivors and discuss methodological challenges associated with this research. We evaluate evidence for cognitive impairment in cancer patients, the incidence of self-reported impairment, and identify potential mechanisms and confounders. RESULTS Most studies of cognitive function are cross-sectional and report impairment in 15-45% of subjects. Longitudinal studies suggest that some impairment is present prior to receiving chemotherapy, and that this worsens in some patients. The aetiology is unknown. A larger number of subjects self-report changes in cognitive function after chemotherapy; this does not correlate with objective testing. CONCLUSIONS Cognitive impairment occurs in a subset of cancer survivors and is generally subtle. Most evidence suggests an association with chemotherapy although other factors associated with the diagnosis and treatment of cancer may contribute.
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Chan PC, Xia Q, Fu PP. Ginkgo biloba leave extract: biological, medicinal, and toxicological effects. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND HEALTH. PART C, ENVIRONMENTAL CARCINOGENESIS & ECOTOXICOLOGY REVIEWS 2007; 25:211-44. [PMID: 17763047 DOI: 10.1080/10590500701569414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 167] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Ginkgo biloba leave extract is among the most widely sold herbal dietary supplements in the United States. Its purported biological effects include: scavenging free radical; lowering oxidative stress; reducing neural damages, reducing platelets aggregation; anti-inflammation; anti-tumor activities; and anti-aging. Clinically, it has been prescribed to treat CNS disorders such as Alzheimer's disease and cognitive deficits. It exerts allergy and changes in bleeding time. While its mutagenicity or carcinogenic activity has not been reported, its components, quercetin, kaempferol and rutin have been shown to be genotoxic. There are no standards or guidelines regulating the constituent components of Ginkgo biloba leave extract nor are exposure limits imposed. Safety evaluation of Ginkgo biloba leave extract is being conducted by the U.S. National Toxicology Program.
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Affiliation(s)
- Po-Chuen Chan
- National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Extracts of the leaves of the maidenhair tree, Ginkgo biloba, have long been used in China as a traditional medicine for various disorders of health. A standardized extract is widely prescribed for the treatment of a range of conditions including memory and concentration problems, confusion, depression, anxiety, dizziness, tinnitus and headache. The mechanisms of action are thought to reflect the action of several components of the extract and include increasing blood supply by dilating blood vessels, reducing blood viscosity, modification of neurotransmitter systems, and reducing the density of oxygen free radicals. OBJECTIVES To assess the efficacy and safety of Ginkgo biloba for dementia or cognitive decline. SEARCH STRATEGY Trials were identified on 10 October 2006 through a search of the Cochrane Dementia and Cognitive Improvement Group's Specialized Register which contains records from all main medical databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, SIGLE, LILACS), from ongoing trials databases such as Clinicaltrials.gov and Current Controlled Trials and many other sources. The search terms used were ginkgo*, tanakan, EGB-761, EGB761, "EGB 761" and gingko*. SELECTION CRITERIA Randomized, double-blind studies, in which extracts of Ginkgo biloba at any strength and over any period were compared with placebo for their effects on people with acquired cognitive impairment, including dementia, of any degree of severity. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Data were extracted from the published reports of the included studies, pooled where appropriate and the treatment effects or the risks and benefits estimated. MAIN RESULTS Clinical global improvement as assessed by the physician, was dichotomized between participants who showed improvement or were unchanged and those who were worse. There are benefits associated with Ginkgo (dose greater than 200 mg/day) at 24 weeks (207/276 compared with 178/273, OR 1.66, 95% CI 1.12 to 2.46, P=.001) (2 studies), but not for the lower dose. Cognition shows benefit for Ginkgo (any dose) at 12 weeks (SMD -0.65, 95% CI -1.22 to -0.09 P=0.02, 5 studies) but not at 24 weeks. Five studies assessed activities of daily living (ADLs), using different scales. Some scales are more comprehensive than just ADLs. The results show benefit for Ginkgo (dose less than 200 mg/day) compared with placebo at 12 weeks (MD -5.0, 95% CI -7.88, -2.12, p=0.0007, one study), and at 24 weeks (SMD -0.16, 95% CI -0.31 to -0.01, p=0.03, 3 studies) but there are no differences at the higher dose. No study assessed mood and function separately, but one study used the ADAS-Noncog, which assesses function over several domains, but not cognitive function. There was no difference between Ginkgo and placebo. There are no significant differences between Ginkgo and placebo in the proportion of participants experiencing adverse events. There are no data available on Quality of Life, measures of depression or dependency. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS Ginkgo biloba appears to be safe in use with no excess side effects compared with placebo. Many of the early trials used unsatisfactory methods, were small, and we cannot exclude publication bias. The evidence that Ginkgo has predictable and clinically significant benefit for people with dementia or cognitive impairment is inconsistent and unconvincing.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Birks
- University of Oxford, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, CDCIG Room 5802, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, UK, OX3 9DU.
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Chen WD, Liang Y, Xie L, Lu T, Liu XD, Wang GJ. Pharmacokinetics of the ginkgo B following intravenous administration of ginkgo B emulsion in rats. Biol Pharm Bull 2007; 30:1-5. [PMID: 17202649 DOI: 10.1248/bpb.30.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Ginkgo B (GB) is an extract from the leaves of Ginkgo biloba, used in the treatment of dementia, cerebral insufficiency or related cognitive decline. In this paper, the main features of the pharmacokinetics of GB emulsion in rats were reviewed and the binding rate of GB to rat plasma and human plasma protein were investigated meanwhile. The concentrations of GB in plasma, tissue, and excretion of rats after i.v. administration of GB were measured using HPLC-ESI-MS. The metabolite was qualitated by LC-MS/MS. Intravenously administered GB was eliminated in a biphasic manner with a prominent initial phase (half-life of 0.3 h) followed by a slower terminal phase (half-life of 1.5 h). After i.v. 4, 12 and 36 mg/kg GB emulsion, the pharmacokinetic parameters from a two compartment model analysis of plasma samples were AUC(0-tau) (microg x min/ml): 53.7, 165.5 and 649.7; CL (l/min/kg): 0.07, 0.07 and 0.05; V(C) (l/kg): 2.27, 3.27 and 2.76, respectively. Peak concentrations generally occurred at 10 min except brain and fat. Tissue concentration then declined by several-fold during 6 h although still present in most tissues at 6 h. Single intravenous dose was mainly excreted in the urine (40-50%), feces contained less than 30%. The binding rate to rat plasma was little higher than to human plasma, but the difference was negligible. Some metabolites were found in urine and bile through qualitative analysis on the urine and bile by LC-MS/MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Dong Chen
- Key Lab of Drug Metabolism & Pharmacokinetics, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing City, China
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Lin FY, Chen YH, Chen YL, Wu TC, Li CY, Chen JW, Lin SJ. Ginkgo biloba extract inhibits endotoxin-induced human aortic smooth muscle cell proliferation via suppression of toll-like receptor 4 expression and NADPH oxidase activation. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2007; 55:1977-84. [PMID: 17266329 DOI: 10.1021/jf062945r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) initiates the inflammatory response in blood vessels in reaction to immune stimuli such as lipopolysaccharide (LPS) produced by gram-negative bacteria. LPS-induced proliferation and functional perturbation in vascular smooth muscle cells play important roles during atherogenesis. Ginkgo biloba extract is an antiatherothrombotic Chinese herbal medicine with anti-inflammatory properties. The effects of G. biloba extract on LPS-induced proliferation and TLR4 expression and the underlying mechanisms for these actions, in human aortic smooth muscle cells (HASMCs), were examined in vitro. LPS-induced proliferation was mediated by the expression of TLR4 in HASMCs. LPS increased the expression of TLR4 in HASMCs, and this effect was mediated by the activation of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase, phosphorylation of intracellular mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs), and increases in the cytoplasmic level of HuR and TLR4 mRNA stability. G. biloba extract inhibited LPS-induced HASMC proliferation and decreased the expression of TLR4 by inhibiting LPS-induced NADPH oxidase activation, mRNA stabilization, and MAPK signaling pathways. These results suggest that LPS-induced TLR4 expression contributes to HASMC proliferation and that G. biloba inhibits LPS-stimulated proliferation of HASMCs by decreasing TLR4 expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng-Yen Lin
- Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China
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Carlson JJ, Farquhar JW, DiNucci E, Ausserer L, Zehnder J, Miller D, Berra K, Hagerty L, Haskell WL. Safety and Efficacy of a Ginkgo Biloba–Containing Dietary Supplement on Cognitive Function, Quality of Life, and Platelet Function in Healthy, Cognitively Intact Older Adults. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2007; 107:422-32. [PMID: 17324660 DOI: 10.1016/j.jada.2006.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2005] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine if a ginkgo biloba-containing supplement improves cognitive function and quality of life, alters primary hemostasis, and is safe in healthy, cognitively intact older adults. DESIGN Four-month, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled parallel design. SUBJECTS/SETTING Ninety men and women (age range 65 to 84 years) were recruited to a university clinic. Eligibility included those without dementia or depression, not taking psychoactive medications or medications or supplements that alter hemostasis. INTERVENTION Ninety subjects were randomly assigned to placebo or a ginkgo biloba-based supplement containing 160 mg ginkgo biloba, 68 mg gotu kola, and 180 mg decosahexaenoic acid per day for 4 months. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Assessments included: six standardized cognitive function tests, the SF-36 Quality of Life questionnaire, the Platelet Function Analyzer-100 (Dade Behring, Eschbom, Germany), and the monitoring of adverse events. STATISTICAL ANALYSES Baseline characteristics and study hypotheses were tested using analysis of covariance. Tests were two-tailed with a 0.05 significance level. RESULTS Seventy-eight subjects (87%) completed both baseline and 4-month testing (n=36 in placebo group, n=42 in ginkgo biloba group). At baseline, the participants' cognitive function was above average. One of six cognitive tests indicated significant protocol differences at 4 months (P=0.03), favoring the placebo. There were no significant differences in quality of life, platelet function, or adverse events. CONCLUSIONS These finding do not support the use of a ginkgo biloba-containing supplement for improving cognitive function or quality of life in cognitively intact, older, healthy adults. However, high baseline scores may have contributed to the null findings. The ginkgo biloba product seems safe and did not alter platelet function, though additional studies are needed to evaluate the interaction of varying doses of ginkgo biloba and ginkgo biloba-containing supplements with medications and supplements that alter hemostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph J Carlson
- Sport and Cardiovascular Nutrition Program, Department of Radiology, Michigan State University, College of Osteopathic Medicine, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA.
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Johnson SK, Diamond BJ, Rausch S, Kaufman M, Shiflett SC, Graves L. The effect of Ginkgo biloba on functional measures in multiple sclerosis: a pilot randomized controlled trial. Explore (NY) 2006; 2:19-24. [PMID: 16781604 DOI: 10.1016/j.explore.2005.10.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic demyelinating neurological disease afflicting young and middle-aged adults, resulting in problems with coordination, strength, cognition, affect, and sensation. OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to determine whether a ginkgo extract (EGb 761) improved functional performance in individuals with MS. DESIGN This study used a double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel group design. The end point was change between baseline (ie, preintervention) and follow-up evaluation following a regimen of four tablets per day at 60 mg per tablet for four weeks. SETTING The study was conducted in academic and clinical-based settings. PATIENTS/PARTICIPANTS Twenty-two individuals with MS were randomly assigned to either the treatment or control condition. Groups did not differ with respect to age, IQ, and education. INTERVENTION Half of the subjects received 240 mg per day of ginkgo special extract (EGb 761), and the other half received placebo. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE The main outcome measures assessed depression (Center for Epidemiologic Studies of Depression Scale [CES-D]), anxiety (State-Trait Anxiety Inventory [STAI]), fatigue (Modified Fatigue Impact Scale [MFIS]); symptom severity (Symptom Inventory [SI]) and functional performance (Functional Assessment of Multiple Sclerosis [FAMS]). RESULTS The ginkgo group had significantly more individuals showing improvement on four or more measures with improvements associated with significantly larger effect sizes on measures of fatigue, symptom severity, and functionality. The ginkgo group also exhibited less fatigue at follow-up compared with the placebo group. CONCLUSIONS This exploratory pilot study showed that no adverse events or side effects were reported and that ginkgo exerted modest beneficial effects on select functional measures (eg, fatigue) among some individuals with MS.
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78
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Pennisi RS. Acute generalised exanthematous pustulosis induced by the herbal remedy Ginkgo biloba. Med J Aust 2006; 184:583-4. [PMID: 16768668 DOI: 10.5694/j.1326-5377.2006.tb00386.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2005] [Accepted: 03/28/2006] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Acute generalised exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP) is a clinical reaction pattern that is induced, in over 90% of cases, by systemic drugs (most frequently antibacterial drugs). This is the first reported case of AGEP caused by the herbal remedy Ginkgo biloba.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert S Pennisi
- Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Queensland Health Pathology and Scientific Services, Brisbane, QLD.
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79
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Kudolo GB, Wang W, Javors M, Blodgett J. The effect of the ingestion of Ginkgo biloba extract (EGb 761) on the pharmacokinetics of metformin in non-diabetic and type 2 diabetic subjects--a double blind placebo-controlled, crossover study. Clin Nutr 2006; 25:606-16. [PMID: 16698134 DOI: 10.1016/j.clnu.2005.12.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2005] [Accepted: 12/15/2005] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Ginkgo biloba extract (EGb 761) has been shown to ameliorate some defects associated with the insulin resistance syndrome and so patients with Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) may be inclined to co-ingest the herb with their medications, such as metformin. This study was designed to determine if the co-ingestion of EGb 761 and metformin would alter the pharmacokinetic properties of metformin in T2DM patients and persons without diabetes, who may ingest it for other purposes. METHOD Normal glucose tolerance (NGT) subjects (n=10; age, 39.2+/-14.0 years; fasting plasma glucose (FPG), 90+/-7 mg/dl; body mass index (BMI), 24.1+/-3.7 kg/m(2)) and 10 T2DM patients (n=10; age, 51.7+/-8.9 years; FPG, 150+/-7 mg/dl; BMI, 33.7+/-5.7 kg/m(2)) completed a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover study. They ingested either EGb 761 (12 0mg/day as a single dose) or a vegetable-based placebo during each arm for 3 months. At the end of each arm, the NGT subject ingested a single 500 mg dose of metformin (non-diabetics) and the T2DM subject took his/her prescribed metformin dose (250-850 mg) with 120 mg EGb 761. Blood and urine samples were collected over an 8-h period, and in the case of T2DM subjects, additionally over the first 2h of the subsequent 3 days. RESULTS Ingestion of EGb 761 produced no significant changes in diagnostic laboratory tests in either group, except reducing glycosylated hemoglobin A(1c) levels (from 7.7+/-1.2 to 7.2+/-0.9%, P<0.05) in T2DM the subjects. The pharmacokinetic parameters of metformin were all significantly different (P<0.05) between the NGT (500 mg) and 8 out of 10 of the T2DM subjects who were prescribed 500 mg of metformin during the placebo cycles. During the EGb 761 cycles, only the elimination half-life in the T2DM subjects was significantly increased (0.117+/-0.085 to 0.141+/-0.100, P<0.05). CONCLUSION The co-ingestion of 120 mg of EGb 761 and 500 mg of metformin did not significantly affect the pharmacokinetic properties of metformin. Further studies are required to verify this observation for smaller and larger dose of metformin with other doses of EGb 761, since T2DM patients on medication constitute a very heterogeneous group.
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Affiliation(s)
- George B Kudolo
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, MSC 6246, University of Texas HSC at San Antonio, 7703 Floyd Curl Drive, 78229-3900, USA.
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80
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81
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Burns NR, Bryan J, Nettelbeck T. Ginkgo biloba: no robust effect on cognitive abilities or mood in healthy young or older adults. Hum Psychopharmacol 2006; 21:27-37. [PMID: 16329161 DOI: 10.1002/hup.739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Ginkgo biloba extracts are commonly used to prevent or treat memory problems but evidence on the efficacy of ginkgo is equivocal. In any case, the psychological locus of ginkgo's effects is unknown. A 12-week, double-blind, placebo-controlled study assessed effects of ginkgo (120 mg per day) on a wide range of cognitive abilities, executive function, attention and mood in 93 healthy older adults (55-79 years) and in 104 young adults (18-43 years). For the older adult sample, longer-term memory assessed by associational learning tasks showed improvement with ginkgo (d = 0.52, p = 0.04). There was no statistically significant difference on any other measure. For the young adult group no measure showed statistically significant effects of ginkgo enhancement. There were no side effects unequivocally attributable to treatment with ginkgo and those reported by participants in the ginkgo groups were mild and similar to those reported elsewhere.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas R Burns
- Department of Psychology, University of Adelaide, South Australia, Australia 5005.
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82
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Atmaca M, Tezcan E, Kuloglu M, Ustundag B, Kirtas O. The effect of extract of ginkgo biloba addition to olanzapine on therapeutic effect and antioxidant enzyme levels in patients with schizophrenia. Psychiatry Clin Neurosci 2005; 59:652-6. [PMID: 16401239 DOI: 10.1111/j.1440-1819.2005.01432.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
It has been suggested that the extract of gingko biloba (EGb) may enhance the efficiency of the classic antipsychotic haloperidol in patients with chronic schizophrenia, especially on positive symptoms, and reduce serum superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels. Therefore, we decided to evaluate the therapeutic effect of EGb and to examine the effect of it on the levels of antioxidant enzymes in schizophrenic patients on olanzapine treatment. We hypothesized that EGb would have the beneficial effects on schizophrenic symptoms and might cause reductions in antioxidant enzymes. The subjects were randomly assigned to the two groups: olanzapine plus EGb (group I) (n=15) and olanzapine alone (group II) (n=14). The patients were evaluated at baseline and at week 8 with respect to the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS), serum SOD, catalase (CAT), and glutathion peroxidase (GPX) levels. At baseline, no statistically significant difference regarding the mean total PANSS scores between treatment groups was found. At the evaluation of week 8, a significant difference in mean Scale for the Assessment of Postive Symptoms (SAPS) scores but not in Scale for the Assessment of Negative Symptoms scores between groups was found. Total patients had statistically significant higher serum SOD, CAT and GPX levels compared to control groups at baseline. At 8 weeks, there were significant differences in the mean decrease in SOD and CAT levels but not in GPX levels between treatment groups. The changes in SOD and CAT levels were correlated with the change in SAPS in group I, but not in the group II. The present study supported the findings of the previous study demonstrating that EGb might enhance the efficiency of antipsychotic in patients with schizophrenia, particularly on positive symptoms of the disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Murad Atmaca
- Department of Psychiatry, Firat University, School of Medicine, Elazig, Turkey.
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83
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Satoh H. Suppression of pacemaker activity by Ginkgo biloba extract and its main constituent, bilobalide in rat sino-atrial nodal cells. Life Sci 2005; 78:67-73. [PMID: 16182317 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2005.04.081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2004] [Accepted: 04/06/2005] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Effects of Ginkgo biloba extract (GBE) and bilobalide (a main constituent) on the pacemaker activity and the underlying ionic currents in rat sino-atrial (SA) nodal cells were investigated using patch-clamp techniques. Both GBE and bilobalide depressed the pacemaker activity in a concentration-dependent manner. At both 0.03 mg/ml GBE and 0.3 microM bilobalide, a negative chronotropic effect was produced. Dysrhythmias often occurred. The L-type Ca(2+) current (I(Ca)) and the hyperpolarization-activated inward current (I(f)) decreased by 69.7+/-3.2% (n=6, P<0.001) and by 12.6+/-2.1% (n=7, P<0.05) at 0.03 mg/ml GBE, and by 51.2+/-3.3% (n=6, P<0.01) and by 19.8+/-2.2 % (n=6, P<0.05) at 0.3 microM bilobalide, respectively. The delayed rectifier K(+) current (I(K)) also decreased. The inhibition was 12.3+/-2.0% (n=6, P<0.05) at 0.03 mg/ml GBE, and was 28.0+/-2.9% (n=6, P<0.05) at 0.3 microM bilobalide. These results indicate that cardiac ionic channels contributing to the pacemaking are highly sensitive to GBE and bilobalide, which can sufficiently modify the spontaneous activity in rat SA nodal cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroyasu Satoh
- Department of Pharmacology, Division of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Nara Medical University, School of Medicine, Kashihara, Nara 634-8521, Japan.
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84
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Page JW, Findley J, Crognale MA. Electrophysiological Analysis of the Effects of Ginkgo Biloba on Visual Processing in Older Healthy Adults. J Gerontol A Biol Sci Med Sci 2005; 60:1246-51. [PMID: 16282555 DOI: 10.1093/gerona/60.10.1246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Several studies have tested the efficacy of ginkgo biloba using compromised visual systems and have found improvement in vision. We measured functional changes in the visual system of older, healthy adults to see if ginkgo extract EGb 761 would increase performance in the normal visual system. Two electrophysiological measures were taken during baseline, placebo, and treatment conditions: visual evoked potentials were used to assess changes in low-level functioning of the visual pathways, and P300 recognition responses were measured to assess higher order processing. No significant effect was found in the lower level visual pathways. However, when using regression analysis across age to assess higher order functioning, an improvement was found. The results suggest that the higher order processing stages, which may be influenced by cognition, decline more rapidly than do lower level processing stages in healthy adults as a function of age, and that the use of ginkgo biloba extract may improve the functioning of this system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan W Page
- Department of Psychology, Minnesota State University, Mankato, 56001, USA.
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85
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Woodward KN. The potential impact of the use of homeopathic and herbal remedies on monitoring the safety of prescription products. Hum Exp Toxicol 2005; 24:219-33. [PMID: 16004184 DOI: 10.1191/0960327105ht529oa] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this paper is to explore the possibility that adverse reactions and drug interactions arising from the use of homeopathic and herbal medicines could lead to confusion when adverse reactions to conventional medicines are reported. An extensive literature review was conducted on the occurrence of adverse reactions and drug interactions following the use of homeopathic or herbal remedies, and the potential for these to confound adverse event reporting to conventional medicines considered. The survey demonstrates the potential for herbal remedies and homeopathic products, to produce adverse drug reactions or drug interactions, and shows the scope for potential for confusion with those arising from conventional medicines. There is a need for greater awareness that adverse reactions apparently due to a conventional medicine, might in reality be due to a herbal medicine or a drug interaction between a herbal medicine and a conventional drug, particularly when a health professional is unaware of the extent of a patient's self-medication with alternative therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- K N Woodward
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, UK.
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86
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Chen SH, Liang YC, Chao JCJ, Tsai LH, Chang CC, Wang CC, Pan S. Protective effects of Ginkgo biloba extract on the ethanol-induced gastric ulcer in rats. World J Gastroenterol 2005; 11:3746-50. [PMID: 15968732 PMCID: PMC4316028 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v11.i24.3746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM: To evaluate the preventive effect of Ginkgo biloba extract (GbE) on ethanol-induced gastric mucosal injuries in rats.
METHODS: Female Wistar albino rats were used for the studies. We randomly divided the rats for each study into five subgroups: normal control, experimental control, and three experimental groups. The gastric ulcers were induced by instilling 1 mL 50% ethanol into the stomach. We gave GbE 8.75, 17.5, 26.25 mg/kg intravenously to the experimental groups respectively 30 min prior to the ulcerative challenge. We removed the stomachs 45 min later. The gastric ulcers, gastric mucus and the content of non-protein sulfhydryl groups (NP-SH), malondialdehyde (MDA), c-Jun kinase (JNK) activity in gastric mucosa were evaluated. The amount of gastric juice and its acidity were also measured.
RESULTS: The findings of our study are as follows: (1) GbE pretreatment was found to provide a dose-dependent protection against the ethanol-induced gastric ulcers in rats; (2) the GbE pretreatment afforded a dose-dependent inhibition of ethanol-induced depletion of stomach wall mucus, NP-SH contents and increase in the lipid peroxidation (increase MDA) in gastric tissue; (3) gastric ulcer induced by ethanol produced an increase in JNK activity in gastric mucosa which also significantly inhibited by pretreatment with GbE; and (4) GbE alone had no inhibitory effect on gastric secretion in pylorus-ligated rats.
CONCLUSION: The finding of this study showed that GbE significantly inhibited the ethanol-induced gastric lesions in rats. We suggest that the preventive effect of GbE may be mediated through: (1) inhibition of lipid peroxidation; (2) preservation of gastric mucus and NP-SH; and (3) blockade of cell apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheng-Hsuan Chen
- Department and Research Center of Gastroenterology, Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei 110, Taiwan, China.
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Wang SJ, Chen HH. Ginkgolide B, a constituent of Ginkgo biloba, facilitates glutamate exocytosis from rat hippocampal nerve terminals. Eur J Pharmacol 2005; 514:141-9. [PMID: 15910800 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2005.03.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2004] [Revised: 02/28/2005] [Accepted: 03/16/2005] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Although previous studies have demonstrated that Ginkgo biloba extract has modest effects in the improvement of memory and cognitive function of the Alzheimer's disease patients, the mechanism(s) underlying its beneficial effects remain(s) unclear. In this study, the effect of ginkgolide B, one of the major constituents of Ginkgo biloba extract, on the release of endogenous glutamate from rat hippocampal nerve terminals (synaptosomes) was studied. Ginkgolide B facilitated the Ca2+-dependent release of glutamate evoked by 4-aminopyridine in a concentration-dependent manner. The facilitatory action of ginkgolide B was not due to it increasing synaptosomal excitability because ginkgolide B did not alter the 4-aminopyridine-evoked depolarization of the synaptosomal plasma membrane potential. Rather, examination of the effect of ginkgolide B on cytosolic free Ca2+ concentration revealed that the facilitation of glutamate release could be attributed to an enhancement of presynaptic voltage-dependent Ca2+ influx. Consistent with this, the ginkgolide B-mediated facilitation of glutamate release was significantly prevented in synaptosomes pretreated with a wide spectrum blocker of N-, P-, and Q-type Ca2+ channels, omega-conotoxin MVIIC. Moreover, the facilitation produced by ginkgolide B was completely abolished by the protein kinase A inhibitor, but not by the protein kinase C inhibitor. These results suggest that ginkgolide B effects a increase in protein kinase A activation, which subsequently enhances the Ca2+ entry through voltage-dependent N- and P/Q-type Ca2+ channels to cause a increase in evoked glutamate release from rat hippocampal nerve terminals. In addition, glutamate release elicited by Ca2+ ionophore (ionomycin) was also facilitated by ginkgolide B, which suggests that ginkgolide B may have a direct effect on the secretory apparatus downstream of Ca2+ entry. These actions of ginkgolide B may provide some information regarding the beneficial effects of Ginkgo biloba in the central nervous system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Su-Jane Wang
- School of Medicine, Fu Jen Catholic University, 510, Chung-Cheng Rd., Hsin-Chuang, Taipei Hsien 24205, Taiwan.
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Kudolo GB, Delaney D, Blodgett J. Short-term oral ingestion of Ginkgo biloba extract (EGb 761) reduces malondialdehyde levels in washed platelets of type 2 diabetic subjects. Diabetes Res Clin Pract 2005; 68:29-38. [PMID: 15811563 DOI: 10.1016/j.diabres.2004.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2003] [Revised: 08/09/2004] [Accepted: 08/18/2004] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
We have recently reported that ingestion of Ginkgo biloba extract (EGb 761) (a) significantly reduced collagen-induced platelet aggregation and thromboxane B2 (TXB2) production in both non-diabetic individuals as well as those with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), (b) significantly reduced platelet malondialdehyde (MDA), an index of lipid peroxidation, in non-diabetic subjects. In the present study we report that ingestion of EGb 761 (120 mg daily for 3 months), significantly decreased platelet MDA-thiobarbituric acid reacting substances (TBARS) (41 +/- 9 pmol/10(7) platelets versus 30 +/- 11 pmol/10(7) platelets) (p < 0.005) in T2DM subjects with normal cholesterol levels (total cholesterol, 164 +/- 22 mg/dl; age, 54 +/- 9 years; BMI, 35.0 +/- 8.8 kg/m2, n = 12). In T2DM subjects with high cholesterol (total cholesterol, 218 +/- 15 mg/dl; age, 52 +/- 5 years; BMI, 36.2 +/- 6.6 kg/m2, n = 7), EGb 761 ingestion reduced the platelet TBARS from 29 +/- 9 to 22 +/- 9 pmol/10(7) platelets (p < 0.04). Because ingestion of EGb 761 did not alter platelet counts it is concluded that EGb 761, probably due to the flavonoid fraction, reduced the TBARS by inhibiting cyclooxygenase (COX)-1-mediated arachidonic acid oxygenation or by reducing the arachidonic acid pool. This is likely to lead to a reduction of platelet hyperactivity, a significant contributor to the development of cardiovascular disease in T2DM patients. Because of other reported beneficial properties of EGb 761, such as stimulation of pancreatic beta-cell function in T2DM subjects with pancreatic exhaustion, it appears that T2DM subjects might benefit from ingesting EGb 761 as a dietary supplement.
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Affiliation(s)
- George B Kudolo
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences-MSC 6246, University of Texas HSC at San Antonio, 7703 Floyd Curl Drive, San Antonio, TX 78229-3900, USA.
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Sun Y, Li W, Fitzloff JF, van Breemen RB. Liquid chromatography/electrospray tandem mass spectrometry of terpenoid lactones in Ginkgo biloba. JOURNAL OF MASS SPECTROMETRY : JMS 2005; 40:373-9. [PMID: 15712369 PMCID: PMC1852454 DOI: 10.1002/jms.795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
Ginkgo biloba (ginkgo) is one of most frequently used botanical dietary supplements. The bioactive constituents include the terpenoid lactones consisting of bilobalide and the ginkgolides A, B, C and J. A new assay based on high-performance liquid chromatography/electrospray tandem mass spectrometry (LC/MS/MS) was developed for the measurement of the terpenoid lactones in ginkgo products such as leaf powder and extracts. Initially, the MS/MS fragmentation pathways of ginkgolides were investigated to identify abundant fragment ions that might be useful for the sensitive and selective detection of ginkgolides and bilobalide during LC/MS/MS. Then, sample preparation and clean-up procedures were streamlined to maximize throughput by taking advantage of the selectivity of LC/MS/MS detection. Analyte recoveries exceeded 90%, the intra-assay and inter-assay relative standard deviations were <5%, the relative error was <8% and the limits of detection and quantification were 3.6-120 and 11-350 fmol, depending on the analyte that was injected on to the LC column. Therefore, this LC/MS/MS assay facilitated the rapid quantitative analysis of ginkgolides A, B, C and J and bilobalide in ginkgo dietary supplements with excellent recovery, reproducibity, accuracy and sensitivity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Richard B. van Breemen
- *Author whom correspondence should be addressed. Richard B. van Breemen Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Pharmacognosy (M/C 781), College of Pharmacy, University of Illinois at Chicago, 833 S. Wood St., Chicago, IL 60612 USA, Tel: (312) 996-9353, Fax: (312) 996-7107,
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90
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Satoh H, Nishida S. Electropharmacological actions of Ginkgo biloba extract on vascular smooth and heart muscles. Clin Chim Acta 2005; 342:13-22. [PMID: 15026263 DOI: 10.1016/j.cccn.2003.12.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2003] [Revised: 12/11/2003] [Accepted: 12/11/2003] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Ginkgo biloba extract (GBE) is composed mostly of two constituents: One is terpenoids (such as bilobalide, ginkgolides A, B and C), and the other is flavonoids (such as quercetin and rutin). After oral administration of GBE (160 mg) to healthy volunteers, the plasma concentrations of ginkgolides A and B and bilobalide are 41.8, 5.6 and 37.6 ng/ml, respectively. GBE and bilobalide cause a potent concentration-dependent relaxation. NG-Monomethyl-l-arginine acetate (l-NMMA), an NO synthesis inhibitor, reduces the vasodilation induced by GBE. Furthermore, the vasorelaxation of GBE is attenuated in Ca2+-free medium. Bilobalide possesses similar mechanisms. The other constituents also produce vasorelaxation. On the other hand, all the compounds markedly modify the action potential configuration in guinea pig ventricular cardiomyocytes. GBE prolongs the action potential duration (APD), whereas bilobalide shortens the APD. In patch-clamp experiments, GBE markedly inhibits the Ca2+ current (ICa), the delayed rectifier K+ current (IK) and the inwardly rectifying K+ current (IK1). On the contrary bilobalide enhances the ICa and IK currents concentration-dependently. The other constituents do not cause their actions in a uniform direction. In the rat sino-atrial (SA) node, GBE causes a negative chronotropic effect. These results indicate that GBE and the constituents produce effective electropharmacological actions in the cardiomyocytes and cause vasodilation, mainly due to the inhibitions of Ca2+ influx through the Ca2+ channel and the activation of NO release in the endothelium and aortic vascular muscles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroyasu Satoh
- Department of Pharmacology, Division of Crude and Herbal Medicine, Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Nara 634-8521, Japan.
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91
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Satoh H. Comparative Electropharmacological Actions of Some Constituents from Ginkgo biloba Extract in Guinea-pig Ventricular Cardiomyocytes. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2004; 1:277-284. [PMID: 15841261 PMCID: PMC538515 DOI: 10.1093/ecam/neh044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2004] [Accepted: 09/16/2004] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Effects of the constituents from Ginkgo biloba extract (GBE) on the action potentials and the ionic currents in guinea pig ventricular cardiomyocytes were investigated using whole-cell and current-clamp techniques. The constituents, ginkgolides A, B, C and quercetin, had depressant effects at 0.1–3μM on the action potential configuration. Ginkgolide A (1–3 μM) prolonged the action potential (action potential duration: APD) at 75% and 90% repolarizations (APD75 and APD90). However, ginkgolides B and C at low concentrations prolonged APD, but at higher concentrations (>1 μM) shortened APD. Quercetin at 3 μM prolonged the APD, but not at the lower concentrations. These constituents also inhibited the Vmax. The resting potential was unaffected. In voltage-clamp experiments, ginkgolides A and B (0.1–3 μM) markedly and concentration-dependently increased the Ca2+ current (ICa) and the delayed rectifier K+ current (IK), and decreased the inwardly rectifying K+ current (IK1). On the other hand, ginkgolide C failed to affect the ICa but increased the IK by 14.0 ± 2.3% (n = 6, P < 0.05) at 1 μM. Quercetin inhibited ICa, and enhanced IK but decreased IK1. These responses to the constituents were almost reversible (80–90% of control) after a 10- to 20-min washout. These results indicate that even at acute administrations, these constituents produce the effective actions on the APD and the underlying ionic currents in cardiomyocytes. Each constituent does not exhibit a uniform response, although GBE acts as a net.
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92
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Sugiyama T, Kubota Y, Shinozuka K, Yamada S, Wu J, Umegaki K. Ginkgo biloba extract modifies hypoglycemic action of tolbutamide via hepatic cytochrome P450 mediated mechanism in aged rats. Life Sci 2004; 75:1113-22. [PMID: 15207658 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2004.02.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2003] [Accepted: 02/24/2004] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
We examined hepatic cytochrome P450 (CYP)-mediated interactions between Ginkgo biloba extract (GBE) and tolbutamide, an oral anti-diabetic agent, in aged and young rats. Tolbutamide was orally given to rats with or without GBE treatment, and time-dependent changes in blood glucose were monitored. The basal activity of six CYP subtypes in liver was lower in the aged rats than in the young rats, while the inductions of these enzymes by 5 day pretreatment of 0.1% GBE diet were more in the aged rats. Further, the pretreatment of GBE significantly attenuated the hypoglycemic action of tolbutamide in the aged rats, corresponding well to the enhanced activity of (S)-warfarin 7-hydroxylase, which is responsible for CYP2C9 subtype, a major isoform metabolizing tolbutamide. In contrast, the simultaneous administration of GBE with tolbutamide potentiated the hypoglycemic action of this drug. The in vitro experiments revealed that GBE competitively inhibited the metabolism of tolbutamide by (S)-warfarin 7-hydroxylase in the rat liver microsomes. In the young rats, the 5 day pretreatment with GBE significantly attenuated the hypoglycemic action of tolbutamide, but a simultaneous treatment had little influence on the tolbutamide effect. In conclusion, the present study has shown that the simultaneous and continuous intake of GBE significantly affects the hypoglycemic action of tolbutamide, possibly via a hepatic CYP enzyme-mediated mechanism, particularly in the aged rats. Therefore, it is anticipated that the intake of GBE as a dietary supplement with therapeutic drugs should be cautious, particularly in elderly people.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomomi Sugiyama
- National Institute of Health and Nutrition, 1-23-1 Toyama, Shinjuku, Tokyo 162-8636, Japan
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93
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Suzuki R, Kohno H, Sugie S, Sasaki K, Yoshimura T, Wada K, Tanaka T. Preventive effects of extract of leaves of ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba) and its component bilobalide on azoxymethane-induced colonic aberrant crypt foci in rats. Cancer Lett 2004; 210:159-69. [PMID: 15183531 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2004.01.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2003] [Revised: 01/21/2004] [Accepted: 01/28/2004] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The modifying effects of dietary feeding of extract of leaves of ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba) (EGb) and bilobalide isolated from EGb on the development of azoxymethane (AOM)-induced colonic aberrant crypt foci (ACF) were investigated in male F344 rats. We also assessed the effects of EGb and bilobalide on proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) index in 'normal-appearing' crypts and activities of detoxifying enzymes of cytochrome P450 (CYP), glutathione S-transferase (GST) and quinine reductase (QR) activity in the liver. To induce ACF, rats were given two weekly subcutaneous injections of AOM (20 mg/kg body wt). They also received the experimental diets containing EGb (50 or 500 ppm) and bilobalide (15 or 150 ppm) for 4 weeks, starting 1 week before the first dosing of AOM. AOM exposure produced a substantial number of ACF (106 +/- 10) at the end of the study (week 4). Dietary administration of EGb and bilobalide caused significant reduction in the frequency of ACF: 50 ppm EGb, 73 +/- 17 (31% reduction, P < 0.001); 500 ppm EGb, 56 +/- 13 (47% reduction, P < 0.001); 15 ppm bilobalide, 79 +/- 17 (25% reduction, P < 0.001); and 150 ppm bilobalide, 71 +/- 30 (33% reduction, P < 0.01). Immunohistochemically, EGb or bilobalide administration significantly lowered PCNA index in normal-appearing crypts. Feeding with EGb or bilobalide increased activities of CYP as well as GST and QR in the liver. These findings might suggest possible chemopreventive ability of EGb or bilobalide, through alterations in cryptal cell proliferation activity and drug metabolizing enzymes' activities, in colon tumorigenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rikako Suzuki
- The First Department of Pathology, Kanazawa Medical University, 1-1 Daigaku, Uchinada, Ishikawa 920-0293, Japan.
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94
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van Haselen RA, Reiber U, Nickel I, Jakob A, Fisher PAG. Providing Complementary and Alternative Medicine in primary care: the primary care workers' perspective. Complement Ther Med 2004; 12:6-16. [PMID: 15130567 DOI: 10.1016/s0965-2299(03)00140-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The use of Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) in primary care is growing, but still not widespread. Little is known about how CAM can/should be integrated into mainstream care. OBJECTIVES To assess primary care health professionals' perceptions of need and of some ways to integrate CAM in primary care. METHOD Questionnaire survey of primary health care workers in Northwest London. General Practitioners (GPs) were targeted in a postal survey, other members of the primary care team, such as district and practice nurses, were targeted via colleagues. The questionnaire assessed health care professionals' perspective on complementary medicine, referrals, ways to integrate complementary medicine into primary care and interest in research on CAM. RESULTS Responses were obtained from 149 GPs (40% response rate after one reminder) and 24 nurses and 32 other primary care team members. One hundred and seventy-one (83%) respondents had previously referred (or influenced referral) for CAM treatments, the main reasons cited were: patients request (68%), conventional treatments failed (58%) and evidence (36%) (more than one reason could be given). Acupuncture and homoeopathy were the therapies for which patients were most frequently referred, followed by manual therapies. There was a significant interest in more training/information on CAM (66%). Only 12 respondents (6%) were against any integration of CAM in mainstream primary care. Most respondents felt that CAM therapies should be provided by doctors (66%) or other health professionals trained in CAM (82%). Twenty-six percent of respondents agreed with provision of CAM by non-state-registered practitioners. It was felt that the integration of CAM could lead to cost savings (70%), particularly in conditions involving pain, but also cost increases (55%) particularly in 'poorly defined conditions'. Fifty-six percent of respondents would consider participating in studies investigating CAM. The greatest interest was in acupuncture (41% of those who expressed an interest in research), homoeopathy (30%) and therapeutic massage/aromatherapy (26%). CONCLUSIONS There is considerable interest in CAM among primary care professionals, and many are already referring or suggesting referral. Such referrals are driven mainly by patient demand and by dissatisfaction with the results of conventional medicine. Most of our respondents were in favour of integrating at least some types of CAM in mainstream primary care. There is an urgent need to further educate/inform primary care health professionals about CAM.
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Affiliation(s)
- R A van Haselen
- The Royal London Homoeopathic Hospital, Greenwell Street, London W1W 5BP, UK.
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96
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DeFeudis FV, Drieu K. ?Stress-alleviating? and ?vigilance-enhancing? actions ofGinkgo biloba extract (EGb 761). Drug Dev Res 2004. [DOI: 10.1002/ddr.10351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
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97
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Persson J, Bringlöv E, Nilsson LG, Nyberg L. The memory-enhancing effects of Ginseng and Ginkgo biloba in healthy volunteers. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2004; 172:430-4. [PMID: 14647971 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-003-1675-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2003] [Accepted: 09/29/2003] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE The use of herbal remedies, such as Ginkgo biloba and Ginseng, for improving cognitive performance has become increasingly popular during recent years. Several previous studies have indicated that administration of Ginkgo biloba and Ginseng may improve aspects of learning and memory in healthy volunteers. These results, however, are generally not supported by well-controlled clinical studies. Also, positive results have often been reported from studies investigating effects related to short-term, chronic administration of the extract. Nonetheless, both Ginkgo biloba and Ginseng are marketed as having the capacity to enhance cognitive functions, such as memory and learning, in the long term. OBJECTIVE This study aimed at investigating whether the use of Ginkgo biloba and Ginseng for a long period of time has positive effects on performance on learning and memory. METHODS Community-dwelling volunteers ( n=3500) from The Betula prospective cohort study: memory, health, and aging were included in the study. RESULTS It was found that the use of neither Ginkgo biloba ( n=40) nor Ginseng ( n=86) was associated with enhanced memory performance in any of the eight memory tests examined, relative to control groups either using or not using nutritional supplements. CONCLUSIONS These findings indicate that use of Ginkgo biloba or Ginseng does not provide any quantifiable beneficial effects on memory performance in the long-term in healthy adult volunteers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonas Persson
- Department of Psychology, Umeå University, 901 87 Umeå, Sweden.
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98
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Lee H, Birks J. Ginkgo biloba for cognitive improvement in healthy individuals. Hippokratia 2004. [DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd004671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Helen Lee
- Hidcote Radley Oxford Oxfordshire UK OX14 3BL
| | - Jacqueline Birks
- University of Oxford; Centre for Statistics in Medicine; Wolfson College Linton Road Oxford UK OX2 6UD
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Abstract
Ginkgo biloba extracts (GBE) are extracted from the leaves of Ginkgo biloba tree. GBE contains 24% of phytoestrogens, which is kaempferol, quercetin, and isorhamnetin. It has been reported that phytoestrogens could be a part of SERMs (Selective estrogen receptor modulators) and possibly the alternative HRT (Hormone replacement therapy) for postmenopausal women. The goal of this study was to investigate the potencies of GBE and its major components (quercetin, kaempferol, isorhamnetin) for estrogenic effect, which confirms the capacity as an alternative HRP. It was found that GBE and its major components exerted a dual action on ER-alpha and ER-beta in competitive binding assay. The binding affinity of these chemicals to ER-beta was higher than to ER-alpha. In the E-screen assay, these chemicals induced cell proliferation in ER-positive MCF-7 cell, but not in ER-negative MDA-MB-231 cells. The cell proliferation induced by these chemicals was blocked by tamoxifen. Also, GBE and its major components induced pS2 and PR (progesterone receptor) transcription in MCF-7 cells. Therefore these results indicated that GBE and its major components had the weak estrogenic activities through the estrogen response pathway by an interaction with the ER. In conclusion, we provided the evidence of potential estrogenic activities of GBE, which could be useful as an alternative HRP. However, further studies are required to assess the physiological significance of GBE in animals and humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seung-Min Oh
- College of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, 300, Chunchun-dong, Jangan-Ku, Suwon, Kyunggido 440-746, South Korea
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Markus CR, Lammers JHCM. Effects of Ginkgo biloba on corticosterone stress responses after inescapable shock exposure in the rat. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2003; 76:487-92. [PMID: 14643848 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2003.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Extracts from the leaves of the Ginkgo biloba tree (GBE) are found to be clinically effective in neuroprotection, cerebral and cardiovascular function and cognitive processing. Recent animal findings suggest that GBE also may improve stress adaptation and prevent learned helplessness, as evidenced by its reduction of behavioral acquisition deficits of active avoidance after inescapable shock exposure. In the present report, the effects of two doses of GBE were studied on corticosterone stress responses and acquisition of active avoidance after inescapable shock exposure. Forty-eight rats were divided into three groups: either receiving a daily dose of 50 mg/kg or 150 mg/kg of GBE (containing 24% flavonoid and 6% terpenoid) or vehicle for 2 weeks. After 2 weeks of administration, animals were trained for active-avoidance acquisition following inescapable shock exposure (stress induction) or nonshock exposure (nonstress). Administration of 150 mg/kg but not of 50 mg/kg of GBE significantly prevented a corticosterone stress response after inescapable shock exposure (P<.0001) without any beneficial behavioral effect on active avoidance. Repeated administration of GBE particularly improves biological adaptation to noxious stimuli without beneficial behavioral consequences. Present findings do not support previous claims about the benefits of G. biloba on improving behavioral stress adaptation and acquisition of active avoidance and on reducing behavioral deficits indicative of "learned helplessness."
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Affiliation(s)
- C Rob Markus
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Maastricht, PO Box 6200 MD Maastricht, The Netherlands.
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