Anti-influenza agents from plants and traditional Chinese medicine

Immunomodulaton and attenuation of lethal influenza A virus infection by oral administration with KIOM-C

Herbal medicine is used to treat many conditions such as asthma, eczema, premenstrual syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, migraine, headaches, menopausal symptoms, chronic fatigue, irritable bowel syndrome, cancer, and viral infections such as influenza. In this study, we investigated the antiviral effect of KIOM-C for the treatment of influenza A virus infection. Our results show that oral administration of KIOM-C conferred a survival benefit to mice infected with the 2009 pandemic H1N1 [A(H1N1)pdm09] virus, and resulted in a 10- to 100-fold attenuation of viral replication in ferrets in a dose-dependent manner. Additionally, oral administration of KIOM-C increased the production of antiviral cytokines, including IFN-γ and TNF-α, and decreased levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6) and chemokines (KC, MCP-1) in the Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) of A(H1N1)pdm-infected mice. These results indicate that KIOM-C can promote clearance of influenza virus in the respiratory tracts of mice and ferrets by modulating cytokine production in hosts. Taken together, our results suggest that KIOM-C is a potential therapeutic compound mixture for the treatment of influenza virus infection in humans.

Viral infection, inflammation and schizophrenia

Schizophrenia is a severe neurodevelopmental disorder with genetic and environmental etiologies. Prenatal viral/bacterial infections and inflammation play major roles in the genesis of schizophrenia. In this review, we describe a viral model of schizophrenia tested in mice whereby the offspring of mice prenatally infected with influenza at E7, E9, E16, and E18 show significant gene, protein, and brain structural abnormalities postnatally. Similarly, we describe data on rodents exposed to bacterial infection or injected with a synthetic viral mimic (PolyI:C) also demonstrating brain structural and behavioral abnormalities. Moreover, human serologic data has been indispensible in supporting the viral theory of schizophrenia. Individuals born seropositive for bacterial and viral agents are at a significantly elevated risk of developing schizophrenia. While the specific mechanisms of prenatal viral/bacterial infections and brain disorder are unclear, recent findings suggest that the maternal inflammatory response may be associated with fetal brain injury. Preventive and therapeutic treatment options are also proposed. This review presents data related to epidemiology, human serology, and experimental animal models which support the viral model of schizophrenia.

Polyphenolic composition, antioxidant activity, and polyphenol oxidase (PPO) activity of quince (Cydonia oblonga Miller) varieties

Phytochemical profiles (phenolic compounds, L-ascorbic acid, antioxidant and PPO activities) of 13 different quince varieties and 5 genotypes were studied. Polyphenols were identified by LC-PDA-QTof/MS and quantified by UPLC-PDA and UPLC-FL. A total of 26 polyphenolic compounds found in quince tissues were identified and presented: 9 flavan-3-ols ((-)-epicatechin, procyanidin B2, 3 procyanidin dimers and trimers, and 1 tetramer); 8 hydroxycinnamates, derivatives of caffeoylquinic and coumaroylquinic acid; and 9 kaempferol and quercetin derivatives. The content of total polyphenols was between 1709.43 (genotype 'S1') and 3436.56 mg/100 g dry weight ('Leskovač'). Flavan-3-ols, which are the major class of quince polyphenols, represented between 78 and 94% of the total polyphenolic compounds. The activity of PPO enzyme ranged from 709.85 to 1284.59 ΔU/min, and that of L-ascorbic acid ranged from 5.86 to 26.42 mg/100 g. Some quince varieties and their products characterized by a higher content of phenolic compounds may be selected to promote their positive effect on health.

Insight into alternative approaches for control of avian influenza in poultry, with emphasis on highly pathogenic H5N1

Highly pathogenic avian influenza virus (HPAIV) of subtype H5N1 causes a devastating disease in poultry but when it accidentally infects humans it can cause death. Therefore, decrease the incidence of H5N1 in humans needs to focus on prevention and control of poultry infections. Conventional control strategies in poultry based on surveillance, stamping out, movement restriction and enforcement of biosecurity measures did not prevent the virus spreading, particularly in developing countries. Several challenges limit efficiency of the vaccines to prevent outbreaks of HPAIV H5N1 in endemic countries. Alternative and complementary approaches to reduce the current burden of H5N1 epidemics in poultry should be encouraged. The use of antiviral chemotherapy and natural compounds, avian-cytokines, RNA interference, genetic breeding and/or development of transgenic poultry warrant further evaluation as integrated intervention strategies for control of HPAIV H5N1 in poultry.

Sarcandra glabra Extract Reduces the Susceptibility and Severity of Influenza in Restraint-Stressed Mice

Sarcandra glabra, as a type of “antipyretic-detoxicate drugs”, has always been widely used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). The Sarcandra glabra extract (SGE) is applied frequently as anti-inflammatory and anti-infectious drug in folk medicine. However, relative experiment data supporting this effective clinical consequence was limited. In order to mimic the physiological conditions of the susceptible population, we employed restraint stress mouse model to investigate the effect of SGE against influenza. Mice were infected with influenza virus three days after restraint, while SGE was orally administrated for 10 consecutive days. Body weight, morbidity, and mortality were recorded daily. Histopathologic changes, susceptibility genes expressions and inflammatory markers in lungs were determined. Our results showed that restraint stress significantly increased susceptibility and severity of influenza virus. However, oral administration of SGE could reduce morbidity, mortality and significantly prolonged survival time. The results further showed that SGE had a crucial effect on improving susceptibility markers levels to recover the balance of host defense system and inhibiting inflammatory cytokines levels through down-regulation of NF-κB protein expression to ameliorate the lung injury. These data showed that SGE reduced the susceptibility and severity of influenza.

Effect of the Miaoyao Fanggan sachet-derived isorhamnetin on TLR2/4 and NKp46 expression in mice

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Miaoyao Fanggan Sachets (MFS) has long been used as a folk medicine for the prevention of influenza in Southeast of Guizhou Province, China. However, the precise immunological mechanisms by which MFS confers protection have not been defined.

STUDY AIM

To explore the effects of MFS on innate immune system responses using a cold stress-induced immune impairment model as a means of examining MFS-mediated influenza prevention. We investigated the effects of MFS on toll-like receptor 2 and 4 (TLR2/4) gene and protein expression levels and on the percentage of NKp46(+) cells present in serum. No overt toxicity was observed following continuous administration of MFS at high doses.

METHODS

Kunming male mice (n=40) were randomly divided into 4 groups consisting of the continuous inhalation Sachet group, Yu-Ping-Feng powder (YPF-P) gavage positive control group, discontinuous inhalation MFS group and untreated controls. After 4 weeks, mice were sacrificed and lungs harvested. The expression of toll-like receptors 2 and 4 (TLR2/4) gene and protein levels was assessed using real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and Western blot analyses, respectively. An additional 60 Kunming mice were randomly divided into 6 groups comprised of a blank control group, continuous MFS inhalation group, an immune-compromised continuous MFS inhalation group, an immuno-compromised group, an immune-compromised MFS discontinuous inhalation group and an immune-compromised positive control group. Immune suppression was induced by cold stress (4 °C/4 h daily for 3 days) and mice were treated with MFS or YPF-P before cold stress treatments. Immuno-compromised mice were treated with MFS continuously or intermittently, or treated with YPF-P. Blood samples were collected and examined for natural killer cells based on positive NKp46 staining. The isorhamnetin associated with MFS-induced immune modulation was obtained from 'wo ga le' which is considered to be a major component of MFS, and analyzed by HPLC.

RESULTS

Mice continuously inhaling MFS showed a moderate increase in TLR2/4 mRNA and protein levels compared to mice in the control and discontinuous inhalation groups. MFS significantly increased the TLR2/4 expression in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, there was also a slightly significant increase in the number of NKp46(+) cells in the continuous inhalation group compared to controls and discontinuous inhalation group. Pretreatment with MFS partially prevented cold stress-induced inhibition of NKp46(+) cells. HPLC analysis of the 'wo ga le' associated with immune function identified the major component to be isorhamnetin.

CONCLUSIONS

Taken together, these data suggested that MFS significantly enhanced TLR2/4 expression levels and the number of NKp46(+) cells in mice and moderately affected innate immune responses associated with protection against influenza, suggesting that isorhamnetin in the MFS enhanced innate immune potency. The use of MFS for the prevention of various respiratory tract infections can be attributed to its antimicrobial properties. In a pilot study, a large quantity (40 g) was administered over a prolonged period did not produce apparent toxicity.

Differential antiviral and anti-inflammatory mechanisms of the flavonoids biochanin A and baicalein in H5N1 influenza A virus-infected cells

From a panel of 22 flavonoids, we identified six compounds (apigenin, baicalein, biochanin A, kaempferol, luteolin, naringenin) that inhibited influenza A nucleoprotein production in human lung epithelial (A549) cells infected with the highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 virus strain A/Thailand/Kan-1/04 in non-toxic concentrations. Baicalein (IC(50): 18.79±1.17μM, selectivity index 5.82) and biochanin A (IC(50) 8.92±1.87μM, selectivity index 5.60) were selected for further experiments. Both compounds reduced H5N1 infectious titres (baicalein 40μM: 29-fold reduction, biochanin A 40μM: 55-fold reduction after infection at MOI 0.01), virus-induced caspase 3 cleavage, nuclear export of viral RNP complexes, and enhanced the effects of the neuraminidase inhibitor zanamivir. Biochanin A and baicalein also inhibited the replication of the H5N1 strain A/Vietnam/1203/04. Time of addition experiments indicated that both compounds interfere with H5N1 replication after the adsorption period. Further mechanistic investigations revealed clear differences between these two flavonoids. Only baicalein interfered with the viral neuraminidase activity (39±7% inhibition at 100μM, the maximum concentration tested). In contrast to baicalein, biochanin A affected cellular signalling pathways resulting in reduced virus-induced activation of AKT, ERK 1/2, and NF-kB. Moreover, biochanin A inhibited the virus-induced production of IL-6, IL-8, and IP-10 while baicalein inhibited IL-6 and IL-8 production without affecting IP-10 levels. In primary human monocyte-derived macrophages, only baicalein but not biochanin A impaired H5N1 virus replication. Both flavonoids interfered with the H5N1-induced production of IL-6, IP-10, and TNF-α but not of IL-8 in macrophages. These findings indicate that closely related flavonoids can exert anti-H5N1 effects by different molecular mechanisms.

Banana by-products: an under-utilized renewable food biomass with great potential

Banana (Musaceae) is one of the world's most important fruit crops that is widely cultivated in tropical countries for its valuable applications in food industry. Its enormous by-products are an excellent source of highly valuable raw materials for other industries by recycling agricultural waste. This prevents an ultimate loss of huge amount of untapped biomass and environmental issues. This review discusses extensively the breakthrough in the utilization of banana by-products such as peels, leaves, pseudostem, stalk and inflorescence in various food and non-food applications serving as thickening agent, coloring and flavor, alternative source for macro and micronutrients, nutraceuticals, livestock feed, natural fibers, and sources of natural bioactive compounds and bio-fertilizers. Future prospects and challenges are the important key factors discussed in association to the sustainability and feasibility of utilizing these by-products. It is important that all available by-products be turned into highly commercial outputs in order to sustain this renewable resource and provide additional income to small scale farming industries without compromising its quality and safety in competing with other commercial products.

Flavonoids in the therapy and prophylaxis of flu: a patent review

INTRODUCTION

Influenza viruses are common agents of flu outbreaks, epidemics, and pandemics that have occurred through the centuries. Prevention and control of flu are of great clinical importance, since they cause serious damage to health, with a consequent impact on quality of life and economy of a country. Resistance against the current drugs justifies the development of new anti-influenza molecules. Flavonoids exhibit significant activity against flu through their anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties. The profile of these molecules makes them particularly promising as therapeutic agents against flu.

AREAS COVERED

This review focus on the activity of flavonoids on different influenza virus targets as well as their use in patented pharmaceutical formulations. Twenty-one patents of these compounds for prophylaxis and treatment of influenza infection are discussed.

EXPERT OPINION

The H1N1 influenza pandemic in 2009 resulted in a significant increase in the number of patents claiming pharmaceutical formulations for prophylaxis and treatment of flu. The research advances on flavonoids showing anti-influenza activity and the efforts made by researchers and industries consolidate the interest on new alternatives for the therapy of an infectious disease that represents a serious public health problem throughout the world.

Duration of viral shedding of influenza A (H1N1) virus infection treated with oseltamivir and/or traditional Chinese medicine in China: a retrospective analysis

OBJECTIVE

H1N1 was a new and potentially serious infectious disease, in human, the severity of influenza can vary from mild to severe, thus to find an effective and safety way to control the influenza pandemic is of crucial importance. This retrospective study describes the duration of viral shedding in H1N1 patients that were hospitalized and treated in China.

METHODS

Clinical data were collected from May to July, 2009 in China for 963 patients with influenza A (H1N1) virus infection. Patients were treated based on the guidelines issued by the Chinese Ministry of Health. The primary outcome was duration of viral shedding and statistical comparisons were performed.

RESULTS

In the patients with body temperature greater than 38.0 degrees C, there were no differences in virus shedding duration among the patients taking oseltamivir within two days, patients undergoing Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) therapy or those receiving no drug therapy. In patients with body temperature > or =38.1 degrees C, TCM therapy reduced the viral shedding duration (P < 0.05, vs. oseltamivir therapy). Furthermore, taking oseltamivir two days after onset of symptoms might prolong the virus shedding duration (P < 0.05, vs. taking oseltamivir less than 2 days of onset).

CONCLUSION

TCM therapy is effective for reducing the length of virus shedding in patients with body temperature > or =38.0 degrees C. Oseltamivir used for reducing virus shedding duration should be taken within two days of onset.

Flavone enhances dengue virus type-2 (NGC strain) infectivity and replication in vero cells

This study investigates the effects of 2-phenyl-1-benzopyran-4-one (flavone) on DENV-2 infectivity in Vero cells. Virus adsorption and attachment and intracellular virus replication were investigated using a foci forming unit assay (FFUA) and quantitative RT-PCR, respectively. Addition of flavone (100 μg/mL) significantly increased the number of DENV-2 foci by 35.66% ± 1.52 and 49.66% ± 2.51 when added during and after virus adsorption to the Vero cells, respectively. The average foci size after 4 days of infection increased by 33% ± 2.11 and 89% ± 2.13. The DENV-2 specific RNA copy number in the flavone-treated infected cells increased by 6.41- and 23.1-fold when compared to the mock-treated infected cells. Flavone (100 μg/mL) did not promote or inhibit Vero cell proliferation. The CC₅₀ value of flavone against Vero cells was 446 µg/mL. These results suggest that flavone might enhance dengue virus replication by acting antagonistically towards flavonoids known to inhibit dengue virus replication.

A randomized, controlled trial comparing traditional herbal medicine and neuraminidase inhibitors in the treatment of seasonal influenza

The herbal medicine, maoto, has been traditionally prescribed to patients with influenza in Japan. To better understand the efficacy of maoto for the treatment of influenza, a randomized trial was conducted for comparison with oseltamivir or zanamivir. Adult patients with influenza symptoms, including fever, positive for quick diagnostic kit for influenza within 48 h of fever onset were assessed for enrollment. The data of 28 patients randomly assigned to maoto (n = 10), oseltamivir (n = 8), or zanamivir (n = 10) were analyzed for the duration of fever (>37.5°C) and total symptom score from symptom cards recorded by the patient. Viral isolation and serum cytokine measurements were also done on days 1, 3, and 5. Maoto granules, a commercial medical dosage form, are made from four plants: Ephedra Herb, Apricot Kernel, Cinnamon Bark, and Glycyrrhiza Root. Median durations of fever of patients assigned maoto, oseltamivir, or zanamivir were 29, 46, or 27 h, respectively, significantly different for maoto and oseltamivir. No significant between-group differences were found in total symptom score among three groups. Viral persistent rates and serum cytokine levels (IFN-α, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, and TNF-α) during the study period showed no differences among three groups. The administration of oral maoto granules to healthy adults with seasonal influenza was well tolerated and associated with equivalent clinical and virological efficacy to neuraminidase inhibitors.

Chemical compositions and anti-influenza activities of essential oils from Mosla dianthera

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Mosla dianthera as an aromatic herb is used in folk medicine for the treatment of cough, colds, fever, bronchitis, nasal congestion and headache.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To characterize chemical compositions and to evaluate the anti-influenza effects of essential oils of M. dianthera (MDEO) in influenza virus A (IVA) infected mice.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

MDEO was obtained by hydrodistillation and analysed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). ICR mice were treated with MDEO for 5 consecutive days at doses of 90-360 mg/kg after post-infected. Levels of Serum IL-4 and IFN-γ were assayed by ELISA. Levels of MOD, SOD, TAOC and GSH-Px in lung tissue were determined by colorimetric method.

RESULTS

GC-MS analysis revealed the presence of 29 components that account for 97.74% of phenolic sesquiterpenes and aromatic compounds. The major compounds were elemicin (16.51%), thymol (14.77%), β-caryophyllene (14.49%), iso-elemicin (9.22%), asarone (6.09%) and α-caryophyllene (5.26%). It had significant effects on decreasing lung viral titers, inhibiting pneumonia, reducing levels of serum IFN-γ and IL-4, and enhancing antioxidant activity in the lung tissue of IVA infected mice.

CONCLUSIONS

MPE could exhibit therapeutical effects in IVA infected mice as a suppressor of IVA replication and inflammatory mediators and a promoter of antioxidant potentials. Therefore, MDEO could provide a safe and effective therapeutic candidate for treatment of influenza and its subsequent viral pneumonia.

Lonicera japonica Thunb.: ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry and pharmacology of an important traditional Chinese medicine

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Lonicera japonica Thunb. (Caprifoliaceae), a widely used traditional Chinese medicine, was known as Jin Yin Hua (Chinese: ), Ren Dong and Japanese honeysuckle. It was taken to treat the exopathogenic wind-heat, epidemic febrile diseases, sores, carbuncles and some infectious diseases. At the same time, Lonicera japonica could be used as healthy food, cosmetics, ornamental groundcover, and so on.

AIM OF THE REVIEW

The present paper reviewed the ethnopharmacology, the biological activities, toxicology and phytochemistry of Lonicera japonica.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Information on Lonicera japonica was gathered via the Internet (using Google Scholar, Baidu Scholar, Elsevier, ACS, Medline Plus, CNKI and Web of Science) and libraries. Additionally, information also was obtained from some local books and brilliant scholars on ethnopharmacology.

RESULTS

More than 140 chemical compounds have been isolated, and the main compositions are essential oils, organic acids and flavones, etc. Lonicera japonica and its active principles possess wide pharmacological actions, such as anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiviral, antioxidative and hepatoprotective activities.

CONCLUSIONS

As an important traditional Chinese medicine, further studies on Lonicera japonica can lead to the development of new drugs and therapeutics for various diseases, and how to utilize it better should be paid more attentions.

Applications of the phytomedicine Echinacea purpurea (Purple Coneflower) in infectious diseases

Extracts of Echinacea purpurea (EP, purple coneflower) have been used traditionally in North America for the treatment of various types of infections and wounds, and they have become very popular herbal medicines globally. Recent studies have revealed that certain standardized preparations contain potent and selective antiviral and antimicrobial activities. In addition, they display multiple immune-modulatory activities, comprising stimulation of certain immune functions such as phagocytic activity of macrophages and suppression of the proinflammatory responses of epithelial cells to viruses and bacteria, which are manifested as alterations in secretion of various cytokines and chemokines. These immune modulations result from upregulation or downregulation of the relevant genes and their transcription factors. All these bioactivities can be demonstrated at noncytotoxic concentrations of extract and appear to be due to multiple components rather than the individual chemical compounds that characterize Echinacea extracts. Potential applications of the bioactive extracts may go beyond their traditional uses.

High performance screening, structural and molecular dynamics analysis to identify H1 inhibitors from TCM Database@Taiwan

New-type oseltamivir-resistant H1N1 influenza viruses have been a major threat to human health since the 2009 flu pandemic. To resolve the drug resistance issue, we aimed to identify a new type of inhibitors against H1 from traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) by employing the world's largest TCM database () for virtual screening and molecular dynamics (MD). From the virtual screening results, sodium (+)-isolaricireinol-2 alpha-sulfate, sodium 3,4-dihydroxy-5-methoxybenzoic acid methyl ester-4-sulfate, sodium (E)-7-hydroxy-1,7-bis(4-hydroxyphenyl)hept-5-ene-3S-sulfonate, and 3-methoxytyramine-betaxanthin were identified as potential drug-like compounds. MD simulation of the binding poses with the key residues Asp103 and Glu83, as well as other binding site residues, identified higher numbers of hydrogen bonds than N-Acetyl-D-Glucosamine (NAG), the natural ligand of the esterase domain in H1. Ionic bonds, salt bridges, and electrostatic energy also contribute to binding stability. Key binding residues include Lys71, Glu83, Asp103, and Arg238. Structural moieties promoting H-bond or salt bridge formations at these locations greatly contribute to a stable ligand-protein complex. An available sodium atom for ionic interactions with Asp103 can further stabilize the ligands. Based on virtual screening, MD simulation, and interaction energy evaluation, TCM candidates demonstrate good potential as novel H1 inhibitors. In addition, the identified stabilizing features can provide insights for designing highly stable H1 inhibitors.

Evaluation of the anti-neuraminidase activity of the traditional Chinese medicines and determination of the anti-influenza A virus effects of the neuraminidase inhibitory TCMs in vitro and in vivo

ETNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Neuraminidase (NA) inhibitors are currently the most effective drugs to treat influenza A viruses infection. Many traditional Chinese medicines (TCMs) have been used in the clinics to treat influenza. The anti-viral mechanisms of these TCMs and their inhibitory effects towards NA need to be systematically tested.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To evaluate the anti-NA activity of the TCMs and the anti-influenza A virus effects of the NA inhibitory TCMs in vitro and in vivo.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We tested the inhibitory activity of water extracts from 439 TCMs towards NA. The in vitro anti-influenza virus activities of the 5 TCMs were evaluated using the strain A/California/7/2009 (H1N1) NYMC X-179A of influenza A virus. A randomly selected TCM with NA inhibitory activity, Melia toosendan extract, was further evaluated using a mouse model infected with influenza A virus.

RESULTS

Five TCMs, Duchesnea indica (Andr.) Focke [Fragaria indica Andr.], Liquidambar formosana Hance., Lithospermum erythrorhizon Sieb. et Zucc., Melia toosendan Sieb. et Zucc., and Prunella vulgaris L., exerted potent inhibitory activity towards NA. These TCMs in the range of 25-250 μg/mL had the ability to reduce virus-induced cytopathic effect (CPE) and the virus yield in MDCK cells. Melia toosendan significantly reduced death rate and prolonged mean day to death (MDD) of the viral infected mice.

CONCLUSIONS

This study describes five TCMs exerted strong inhibitory activities towards NA, and exhibited antiviral effect against influenza A virus by reducing viral reproduction and reduced CPE of the viral infected cells. Melia toosendan, significantly reduced death rate and prolonged survival of the H1N1 viral infected mice.

Current work and future possibilities for the management of severe influenza: using immunomodulatory agents that target the host response

In this article, we argue the case that the excessive inflammatory response seen in severe influenza contributes to severe illness and death by disabling oxidative phosphorylation in mitochondria, leading to reduced cellular levels of ATP. When the mitochondrial permeability transition is induced, cells cannot die by apoptosis in the face of reduced ATP levels, because apoptosis depends upon ATP availability, and so cells undergo necrosis. Cellular necrosis causes release of proinflammatory molecules such as high mobility group box 1 protein and mitochondrial DNA, and these could contribute to the prolongation of inflammation during severe influenza. With these concepts in mind, we discuss how immunomodulatory agents that prevent cellular necrosis (by restoring mitochondrial function) and limit inflammation are promising influenza treatments.

Using Complementary and Alternative Medicines to Target the Host Response during Severe Influenza

It is now accepted that an overwhelming inflammatory response is the cause of human deaths from avian H5N1 influenza infection. With this in mind we sought to examine the literature for examples of complementary and alternative medicines that reduce inflammation, and to place the results of this search in the context of our own work in a mouse model of influenza disease, using a pharmaceutical agent with anti-inflammatory properties. Two Chinese herbs, Angelica sinensis (Dang Gui) and Salvia miltiorrhiza (Danshen), have been recently shown to protect mice during lethal experimental sepsis via inhibition of the novel inflammatory cytokine High Mobility Group Box 1 protein (HMGB1). Biochanin A, a ligand of the peroxisome proliferator activated receptors (PPAR) alpha and gamma and the active isoflavone in Trifolium pratense (red clover), has anti-inflammatory properties, and thus could be used as an influenza treatment. This is of great interest since we have recently shown that gemfibrozil, a drug used to treat hyperlipidemia in humans and a synthetic ligand of PPAR alpha, significantly reduces the mortality associated with influenza infections in mice. The inflammation-modulating abilities of these natural agents should be considered in light of what is now known about the mechanisms of fatal influenza, and tested as potential candidates for influenza treatments in their own right, or as adjunct treatments to antivirals.

Pentagalloylglucose downregulates cofilin1 and inhibits HSV-1 infection

To investigate the anti-herpesvirus mechanism of pentagalloylglucose (PGG), we compared the proteomic changes between herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) infected MRC-5 cells with or without PGG-treatment, and between non-infected MRC-5 cells with or without PGG-treatment by 2-DE and MS-based analysis. Differentially expressed cellular proteins were mainly involved with actin cytoskeleton regulation. Significantly, PGG can down-regulate cofilin1, a key regulator of actin cytoskeleton dynamics. PGG can inhibit HSV-1-induced rearrangements of actin cytoskeleton which is important for infectivity. Furthermore, cofilin1 knockdown by siRNA also inhibited the HSV-1-induced actin-skeleton rearrangements. Both PGG-treatment and cofilin1 knockdown can reduce HSV-1 DNA, mRNA, protein synthesis and virus yields. Altogether, the results suggested that down-regulating cofilin1 plays a role in PGG inhibiting HSV-1 infection. PGG may be a promising anti-herpesvirus agent for drug development.

Oligonol a low molecular weight polyphenol of lychee fruit extract inhibits proliferation of influenza virus by blocking reactive oxygen species-dependent ERK phosphorylation

The emergence of resistance to anti-influenza drugs calls for the search for new antiviral molecules with different resistance profiles. Polyphenolic compounds are found in various plants and have antiviral and antioxidative properties. We tested the hypothesis that oligonol, a lychee fruit-derived low molecular weight polyphenol, possesses anti-influenza effects by inhibiting phosphorylation of extracellular-signal-regulated kinases (ERK). Real time PCR, plaque assay, and immunofluorescence techniques were used to study the effects of oligonol on proliferation of influenza virus. Oligonol inhibits influenza virus proliferation by blocking attachment of the virus to MDCK cells and by suppression of nuclear export of influenza virus ribonucleoprotein (RNP). Infection of MDCK cells with influenza virus leads to an increase in production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and induction of a ROS-dependent ERK phosphorylation. Inhibition of ERK activation by a dominant negative mutant of ERK or N-acetyl-cysteine (NAC) leads to inhibition of influenza RNP nuclear export. Phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) induces ROS production, ERK phosphorylation and enhances influenza proliferation in MDCK cells. Oligonol and NAC inhibit PMA-induced ERK phosphorylation and ROS production. Our studies suggest that the underlying mechanism for the inhibitory effect of oligonol on influenza virus RNP nuclear export is blocking of ROS-dependent induction of ERK phosphorylation.

Potential of Complementary and Alternative Medicine in Preventive Management of Novel H1N1 Flu (Swine Flu) Pandemic: Thwarting Potential Disasters in the Bud

The emergence of novel H1N1 has posed a situation that warrants urgent global attention. Though antiviral drugs are available in mainstream medicine for treating symptoms of swine flu, currently there is no preventive medicine available. Even when available, they would be in short supply and ineffective in a pandemic situation, for treating the masses worldwide. Besides the development of drug resistance, emergence of mutant strains of the virus, emergence of a more virulent strain, prohibitive costs of available drugs, time lag between vaccine developments, and mass casualties would pose difficult problems. In view of this, complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) offers a plethora of interesting preventive possibilities in patients. Herbs exhibit a diverse array of biological activities and can be effectively harnessed for managing pandemic flu. Potentially active herbs can serve as effective anti influenza agents. The role of CAM for managing novel H1N1 flu and the mode of action of these botanicals is presented here in an evidence-based approach that can be followed to establish their potential use in the management of influenza pandemics. The complementary and alternative medicine approach deliberated in the paper should also be useful in treating the patients with serious influenza in non pandemic situations.

Comparison of the anti-inflammatory and anti-nociceptive effects of three medicinal plants known as "Snow Lotus" herb in traditional Uighur and Tibetan medicines

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Saussurea involucrata (Kar. et Kir.) Sch.-Bip. (Compositae) has long been used under the herbal name "Snow Lotus" for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, stomachache and dysmenorrhea in Uighur folk medicine. In traditional Tibetan medicine, Saussurea laniceps Hand.-Mazz. and Saussurea medusa Maxim. have also been used under the name "Snow Lotus" and prescribed for the treatment of pain and inflammatory conditions.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The present study evaluated the pharmacological effects of three species of "Snow Lotus" in experimental inflammation and pain models, and determined the chemical compounds that may correlate with their pharmacological activities.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The anti-inflammatory activities of the three herbs were observed by using carrageenan-induced paw edema in rats and xylene-induced ear edema in mice. Investigations on the analgesic effects were conducted, including acetic acid-induced writhing and hot-plate test. An UPLC-MS method was developed to analyze the chemical composition of the three herbs and of plasma samples after herb administration.

RESULTS

In rat paw edema model, the peak inhibitory effects of Saussurea laniceps and Saussurea involucrata (55.1% and 42.2%, respectively) were recorded with the dose of 400mg/kg at 3h post-carrageenan injection. In mouse ear edema model, oral administration of Saussurea laniceps, Saussurea involucrata and Saussurea medusa extract (400mg/kg) resulted in a significant inhibition of ear edema by 40.9%, 33.3%, and 9.1%, respectively. In the writhing test, oral administration of Saussurea laniceps extract (100, 200 and 400mg/kg) resulted in a significant inhibition of writhings by 13.5%, 22.3%, and 43.5%, respectively. In the hot-plate test, Saussurea laniceps extract significantly increased the latency of jumping response by 38.2% and 52.7% when treated orally at 200 and 400mg/kg in mice, respectively. Flavonoids, coumarins and lignins were found to be present in plasma after administration of the extracts and may be the basis of the observed pharmacological effects.

CONCLUSION

The results clearly demonstrated that Saussurea laniceps was most effective; Saussurea involucrata exhibited a moderate potency, whereas Saussurea medusa possessed little effect against the experimental edema and pains. This study also supported discrimination among the three herbs when using them in folk medicine.

Anti-viral properties and mode of action of standardized Echinacea purpurea extract against highly pathogenic avian influenza virus (H5N1, H7N7) and swine-origin H1N1 (S-OIV)

Background

Influenza virus (IV) infections are a major threat to human welfare and animal health worldwide. Anti-viral therapy includes vaccines and a few anti-viral drugs. However vaccines are not always available in time, as demonstrated by the emergence of the new 2009 H1N1-type pandemic strain of swine origin (S-OIV) in April 2009, and the acquisition of resistance to neuraminidase inhibitors such as Tamiflu^® (oseltamivir) is a potential problem. Therefore the prospects for the control of IV by existing anti-viral drugs are limited. As an alternative approach to the common anti-virals we studied in more detail a commercial standardized extract of the widely used herb Echinacea purpurea (Echinaforce^®, EF) in order to elucidate the nature of its anti-IV activity.

Results

Human H1N1-type IV, highly pathogenic avian IV (HPAIV) of the H5- and H7-types, as well as swine origin IV (S-OIV, H1N1), were all inactivated in cell culture assays by the EF preparation at concentrations ranging from the recommended dose for oral consumption to several orders of magnitude lower. Detailed studies with the H5N1 HPAIV strain indicated that direct contact between EF and virus was required, prior to infection, in order to obtain maximum inhibition in virus replication. Hemagglutination assays showed that the extract inhibited the receptor binding activity of the virus, suggesting that the extract interferes with the viral entry into cells. In sequential passage studies under treatment in cell culture with the H5N1 virus no EF-resistant variants emerged, in contrast to Tamiflu^®, which produced resistant viruses upon passaging. Furthermore, the Tamiflu^®-resistant virus was just as susceptible to EF as the wild type virus.

Conclusion

As a result of these investigations, we believe that this standard Echinacea preparation, used at the recommended dose for oral consumption, could be a useful, readily available and affordable addition to existing control options for IV replication and dissemination.

Comments on serious anaphylaxis caused by nine Chinese herbal injections used to treat common colds and upper respiratory tract infections

Reports describing severe allergic shock and fatality following treatment of a common cold or upper respiratory tract infection (URTI) with a Chinese herbal injection were collected. Our analysis of the risks associated with this treatment suggested that the potential risk of serious, or even lethal, anaphylaxis should preclude its use in treating common colds and URTIs. In light of our findings herein, we propose the following five suggestions for improving the clinical safety of delivering Chinese herbal injections as medical treatments. First, Chinese herbal injections should not be delivered in the clinic to treat patients in accordance with Bian zheng lun zhi (broad-spectrum application based on holistic Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) theory and methodology), but rather they should be administered to target specific indicated disease processes. Second, Chinese herbal injection indications should be based on the results of double-blind randomized controlled clinical trials. Third, Chinese herbal injections should be used only in cases involving severe disease or to rescue patients in critical condition; they should not be used to treat mild, relatively innocuous diseases, such as common colds and upper respiratory tract infections, given the risk of doing harm. Fourth, Chinese herbal injection formulas should include materials from only a single or a small number of plant sources in known quantities. Fifth, more studies examining the toxicology and allergenic potential of Chinese herbal injections are needed.

Evaluation of free radical-scavenging and antihemolytic activities of quince (Cydonia oblonga) leaf: a comparative study with green tea (Camellia sinensis)

This study aimed to determine the phenolic profile and to investigate the antioxidant potential of quince (Cydonia oblonga) leaf, comparing it with green tea (Camellia sinensis). For these purposes, methanolic extracts were prepared and phenolics content of quince leaf was determined by HPLC/UV. The antioxidant properties were assessed by Folin-Ciocalteu reducing capacity assay and by the ability to quench the stable free radical 2,2'-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and to inhibit the 2,2'-azobis(2-amidinopropane) dihydrochloride (AAPH)-induced oxidative hemolysis of human erythrocytes.5-O-Caffeoylquinic acid was found to be the major phenolic compound in quince leaf extract. Quince leaf exhibited a significantly higher reducing power than green tea (mean value of 227.8 +/- 34.9 and 112.5 +/- 1.5 g/kg dry leaf, respectively). Quince leaf extracts showed similar DPPH radical-scavenging activities (EC50 mean value of 21.6 +/- 3.5 microg/ml) but significantly lower than that presented by green tea extract (EC50 mean value of 12.7 +/- 0.1 microg/ml). Under the oxidative action of AAPH, quince leaf methanolic extract significantly protected the erythrocyte membrane from hemolysis in a similar manner to that found for green tea (IC50 mean value of 30.7 +/- 6.7 and 24.3 +/- 9.6 microg/ml, respectively, P > 0.05). These results point that quince leaf may have application as preventive or therapeutic agent in diseases in which free radicals are involved.

Protective effect of quince (Cydonia oblonga Miller) fruit against oxidative hemolysis of human erythrocytes

The aim of this study was to determine the phenolic content and evaluate the antioxidant activity of quince (Cydonia oblonga) fruit. For this purpose, fruits were separated into pulps, peels and seeds and methanolic extracts were prepared. The phenolic profiles were determined by HPLC/UV and antioxidant properties were studied for their ability to quench the stable free radical 2,2'-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and to inhibit the 2,2'-azobis(2-amidinopropane) dihydrochloride (AAPH)-induced oxidative hemolysis of human erythrocytes. The main phenolic compounds were 5-O-caffeoylquinic acid for pulp and peel (57% and 29%, respectively) and stellarin-2 for seed (18%). Total phenolics content was 2.5, 6.3 and 0.4g/kg of methanolic extract for pulp, peel and seed, respectively. Pulp and peel extracts showed similar DPPH free radical scavenging activities (EC(50) of 0.6 and 0.8 mg/ml, respectively), while seed extract presented much lower antioxidant potential (EC(50) of 12.2mg/ml). Under the oxidative action of AAPH, pulp and peel extracts showed significant protection of the erythrocyte membrane from hemolysis, in a time- and concentration-dependent manner. Seed extracts by themselves induced extensive hemolysis. These results indicate higher antioxidant activity for certain parts of quince fruit, namely pulp and peel, that may therefore represent accessible sources of natural antioxidants with potential application in nutritional/pharmaceutical fields, as preventive or therapeutic agents in diseases in which free radicals are implicated.

In vitro anti-influenza screening of several Euphorbiaceae species: structure of a bioactive Cyanoglucoside from Codiaeum variegatum

A bio-guided screening against influenza A virus (FLUAV) was carried out with seven Euphorbiaceae species. The results showed that chromatographic fractions from Phyllantus niruri, Euphorbia pulcherrima and Codiaeum variegatum had relevant anti-FLUAV activity, although only chromatographical subfractions from C. variegatum kept the activity. From this plant, the active compound against FLUAV was isolated. Its structure was assigned as 2-(3,4,5)-trihydroxy-6-hydroxymethyltetrahydropyran-2-yloxymethyl)acrylonitrile (1) on the basis of NMR, mass spectrometry and X-ray diffraction analysis. The compound displayed virucidal activity without impairment of haemagglutination properties of the used virus strain. This is the first report indicating antiviral activity of a cyanoglucoside.

Chaga mushroom (Inonotus obliquus) induces G0/G1 arrest and apoptosis in human hepatoma HepG2 cells

AIM: To investigate the anti-proliferative and apoptotic effects of Chaga mushroom (Inonotus obliquus) water extract on human hepatoma cell lines, HepG2 and Hep3B cells.

METHODS: The cytotoxicity of Chaga extract was screened by 3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2, 5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. Morphological observation, flow cytometry analysis, Western blot were employed to elucidate the cytotoxic mechanism of Chaga extract.

RESULTS: HepG2 cells were more sensitive to Chaga extract than Hep3B cells, as demonstrated by markedly reduced cell viability. Chaga extract inhibited the cell growth in a dose-dependent manner, which was accompanied with G₀/G₁-phase arrest and apoptotic cell death. In addition, G₀/G₁ arrest in the cell cycle was closely associated with down-regulation of p53, pRb, p27, cyclins D1, D2, E, cyclin-dependent kinase (Cdk) 2, Cdk4, and Cdk6 expression.

CONCLUSION: Chaga mushroom may provide a new therapeutic option, as a potential anticancer agent, in the treatment of hepatoma.

Antiviral potentials of medicinal plants

Medicinal plants have been widely used to treat a variety of infectious and non-infectious ailments. According to one estimate, 25% of the commonly used medicines contain compounds isolated from plants. Several plants could offer a rich reserve for drug discovery of infectious diseases, particularly in an era when the latest separation techniques are available on one hand, and the human population is challenged by a number of emerging infectious diseases on the other hand. Among several other ailments, viral infections, particularly infections associated with human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) and 2 (HIV-2), and newly emerging infectious viruses have challenged mankind survival. Of importance, a variety of medicinal plants have shown promise to treat a number of viral infections, and some of them possess broad-spectrum antiviral activity. In the past, exploration into the antiviral activity of various promising medicinal plants was limited due to: (a) highly infectious nature of viruses and (b) lack of appropriate separation techniques for the identification of antiviral components from plants. Development of vector-based strategies, in which non-infectious molecular clone of a virus could be used for antiviral screening purposes, and advancement in separation technologies offers promise for medicinal plants usage in modern drug discovery. This article describes potential antiviral properties of medicinal plants against a diverse group of viruses, and suggests screening the potential of plants possessing broad-spectrum antiviral effects against emerging viral infections.

Phenolic profile of Cydonia oblonga Miller leaves

Cydonia oblonga Miller leaves phenolic compounds were analyzed by reversed-phase HPLC/DAD and HPLC/UV. Qualitative and quantitative analysis of phenolics were carried out in a total of 36 samples of quince leaves from three different geographical origins of Northern (Bragança and Carrazeda de Ansiães) and Central Portugal (Covilhã) and three collection months (June, August, and October of 2006). These leaves presented a common phenolic profile composed by nine compounds: 3- O-, 4- O- and 5- O-caffeoylquinic acids, 3,5- O-dicaffeoylquinic acid, quercetin-3- O-galactoside, quercetin-3- O-rutinoside, kaempferol-3- O-glycoside, kaempferol-3- O-glucoside, and kaempferol-3- O-rutinoside. 5- O-caffeoylquinic acid was the major phenolic compound (36.2%), followed by quercetin 3- O-rutinoside (21.1%). Quince leaves are characterized by higher relative contents of kaempferol derivatives than fruits (pulps, peels, and seeds), especially in what concerns kaempferol-3- O-rutinoside (12.5%). C. oblonga leaves total phenolic content was very high, varying from 4.9 to 16.5 g/kg dry matter (mean value of 10.3 g/kg dry matter), indicating that these leaves can be used as a good and cheap source of bioactive constituents. Significantly differences were observed in 3- O-caffeoylquinic and 3,5- O-dicaffeoylquinic acids contents, according to geographical provenance and harvesting month, suggesting a possible use of these compounds as geographical origin and/or maturity markers.

The tumor-growth inhibitory activity of flavanone and 2′-OH flavanone in vitro and in vivo through induction of cell cycle arrest and suppression of cyclins and CDKs

Natural products, including flavonoids, are suggested to be involved in the protective effects of fruits and vegetables against cancer. However, studies concerning the effect of flavonoids frequently lacked data regarding to flavanones. In this study, we investigated the inhibitory effect of flavanone compounds, including flavanone, 2'-OH flavanone, 4'-OH flavanone, 6-OH flavanone, naringin and naringenin, on cell growth of various cancer cells. We determined that flavanone and 2'-OH flavanone inhibited cell growth of A549, LLC, AGS, SK-Hepl and HA22T cancer cells, while other flavanones showed little or no inhibition. We evaluated growth-inhibitory activity of flavanone and 2'-OH flavanone against highly proliferative human lung cancer cells (A549) via anchorage-independent and -dependent colony formation assay, and further showed that treatment of flavanone resulted in a G1 cell cycle arrest with reduction of cyclin D, E and cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK) 2, while treatment of 2'-OH flavanone led to a G2/M phase accumulation with reduction of cyclin B, D and Cdc2. Moreover, we demonstrated the improvement effect of flavanone and 2'-OH flavanone with anti-cancer drug, doxorubicin, on A549 cells. Finally, flavanone and 2'-OH flavanone were evidenced by its inhibition on the growth of A549 and Lewis lung carcinoma cells in vivo.