201
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Senchina DS, Hallam JE, Dias AS, Perera MA. Human blood mononuclear cell in vitro cytokine response before and after two different strenuous exercise bouts in the presence of bloodroot and Echinacea extracts. Blood Cells Mol Dis 2009; 43:298-303. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bcmd.2009.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2009] [Revised: 08/10/2009] [Accepted: 08/10/2009] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
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202
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Nilanthi D, Chen XL, Zhao FC, Yang YS, Wu H. Induction of tetraploids from petiole explants through colchicine treatments in Echinacea purpurea L. J Biomed Biotechnol 2009; 2009:343485. [PMID: 19696915 PMCID: PMC2729369 DOI: 10.1155/2009/343485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2009] [Revised: 04/23/2009] [Accepted: 06/30/2009] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Petiole explants were obtained from in vitro grown diploid (2x = 22) Echinacea purpurea plantlets. Shoots were regenerated by culturing the explants on MS basal medium containing 0.3 mg/L benzyladenine (BA), 0.01 mg/L naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA) and four concentrations (30, 60, 120, and 240 mg/L) of colchicine for 30 days, or 120 mg/L of colchicine for various durations (7, 14, 21, and 28 days). The regenerated shoots were induced to root on MS basal medium with 0.01 mg/L NAA, and then the root-tips of the regenerated shoots were sampled for count of chromosome number. It was found that a treatment duration of >7 days was necessary for induction of tetraploid (4x = 44) shoots, and treatment with 120 mg/L colchicine for 28 days was the most efficient for induction of tetraploids, yielding 23.5% of tetraploids among all the regenerated shoots. Chimeras were observed in almost all the treatments. However, the ratio of tetraploid to diploid cells in a chimeric plant was usually low. In comparison with diploid plants, tetraploid plants in vitro had larger stomata and thicker roots with more root branches, and had prominently shorter inflorescence stalk when mature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dahanayake Nilanthi
- Genetic Engineering Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Xiao-Lu Chen
- Genetic Engineering Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Fu-Cheng Zhao
- Genetic Engineering Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Yue-Sheng Yang
- Genetic Engineering Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
- Research Center of Medicinal Plants, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Hong Wu
- Research Center of Medicinal Plants, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
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203
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Induction of multiple pro-inflammatory cytokines by respiratory viruses and reversal by standardized Echinacea, a potent antiviral herbal extract. Antiviral Res 2009; 83:165-70. [DOI: 10.1016/j.antiviral.2009.04.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2009] [Revised: 04/17/2009] [Accepted: 04/21/2009] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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204
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205
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Toselli F, Matthias A, Gillam EM. Echinacea metabolism and drug interactions: The case for standardization of a complementary medicine. Life Sci 2009; 85:97-106. [DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2009.04.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2008] [Revised: 04/06/2009] [Accepted: 04/30/2009] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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206
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Sharma M, Schoop R, Hudson JB. Echinacea as an antiinflammatory agent: the influence of physiologically relevant parameters. Phytother Res 2009; 23:863-7. [PMID: 19107735 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.2714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Numerous Echinacea preparations are available on the market for the prevention and treatment of cold and 'flu symptoms and inflammatory conditions associated with infections. Most of these preparations are consumed orally in the form of aqueous or ethanol extracts and tinctures. Since the recommended consumption normally involves a brief local exposure to the diluted preparation at an unspecified time in relation to the actual infection, then it is important that experimental models for the evaluation of Echinacea reflect these limitations. A line of human bronchial epithelial cells, in which rhinoviruses stimulate the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, was used to evaluate several relevant parameters. The chemically characterized Echinacea preparation (Echinaforce) was capable of inhibiting completely the rhinovirus induced secretion of IL-6 (interleukin-6) and IL-8 (chemokine CXCL-8) in these cells, regardless of whether the Echinacea was added before or after virus infection, and in response to a range of virus doses. This inhibitory effect was also manifest under conditions resembling normal consumption with respect to the duration of exposure to Echinacea and the Echinacea dilution. It is concluded that under real life conditions of Echinacea consumption, the virus-induced stimulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines can be effectively reversed or alleviated.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Sharma
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
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207
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Christensen KB, Petersen RK, Petersen S, Kristiansen K, Christensen LP. Activation of PPARgamma by metabolites from the flowers of purple coneflower (Echinacea purpurea). JOURNAL OF NATURAL PRODUCTS 2009; 72:933-937. [PMID: 19374389 DOI: 10.1021/np900003a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Thiazolidinediones are insulin sensitizing drugs that target the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) gamma. An n-hexane extract of the flowers of Echinacea purpurea was found to activate PPARgamma without stimulating adipocyte differentiation. Bioassay-guided fractionations yielded five alkamides, of which one was new, and three fatty acids that all activated PPARgamma. The new alkamide hexadeca-2E,9Z,12Z,14E-tetraenoic acid isobutylamide (5) was identified by analysis of spectroscopic data and found to activate PPARgamma with no concurrent stimulation of adipocyte differentiation. Compound 5 was further shown to increase insulin-stimulated glucose uptake. The data suggest that flowers of E. purpurea contain compounds with potential to manage insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathrine B Christensen
- Department of Food Science, University of Aarhus, Kirstinebjergvej 10, 5792 Aarslev, Denmark.
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208
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Senchina DS, McCann DA, Flinn GN, Wu L, Zhai Z, Cunnick JE, Wurtele ES, Kohut ML. Echinacea tennesseensis ethanol tinctures harbor cytokine- and proliferation-enhancing capacities. Cytokine 2009; 46:267-72. [PMID: 19286391 DOI: 10.1016/j.cyto.2009.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2008] [Revised: 01/28/2009] [Accepted: 02/12/2009] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Members of the genus Echinacea are used medicinally to treat upper respiratory infections such as colds and influenza. The aim of the present investigation was to characterize the phytomedicinal properties of the American federally endangered species Echinacea tennesseensis. METHODS Fifty-percent ethanol tinctures were prepared from roots, stems, leaves, and flowers and tested separately for their ability to influence production of IL-1beta, IL-2, IL-10, and TNF-alpha as well as proliferation by young human adult peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PMBC) in vitro. Tincture aliquots were stored at three different temperatures (4, -20, and -80 degrees C) for 21h before testing. At 1-month post-extraction, tinctures stored at -20 degrees C were tested again for cytokine modulation. Phytochemical analyses were performed using HPLC. RESULTS Fresh root, leaf, and flower tinctures stimulated PBMC proliferation. Fresh root tinctures alone stimulated IL-1beta, IL-10, and TNF-alpha production. No tinctures modulated IL-2 production. Stem tinctures showed no activity. Storage temperature did not influence any outcomes. Root tinctures maintained their ability to modulate IL-1beta, IL-10, and TNF-alpha production after 1month of storage at -20 degrees C. CONCLUSIONS These results suggest E. tennesseensis harbors phytomedicinal properties that vary by plant organ, with roots demonstrating the strongest activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- David S Senchina
- Biology Department, Drake University, 2507 University Ave., Des Moines, IA 50311, USA
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209
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Zhai Z, Solco A, Wu L, Wurtele ES, Kohut ML, Murphy PA, Cunnick JE. Echinacea increases arginase activity and has anti-inflammatory properties in RAW 264.7 macrophage cells, indicative of alternative macrophage activation. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2009; 122:76-85. [PMID: 19111603 PMCID: PMC2668539 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2008.11.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2008] [Revised: 11/01/2008] [Accepted: 11/29/2008] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE The genus Echinacea is a popular herbal immunomodulator. Recent reports indicate that Echinacea products inhibit nitric oxide (NO) production in activated macrophages. AIM OF THE STUDY In the present study we determined the inhibitory effects of alcohol extracts and individual fractions of alcohol extracts of Echinacea on NO production, and explored the mechanism underlying the pharmacological anti-inflammatory activity. MATERIALS AND METHODS Alcohol extracts of three medicinal Echinacea species, Echinacea angustifolia, Echinacea pallida and Echinacea purpurea, were prepared using Soxhlet apparatus and fractionated using HPLC. NO production by LPS activated RAW 264.7 macrophage cells was measured using a Griess reagent and iNOS detected using immunoblotting. In addition, effects on arginase activity were measured in RAW 264.7 cells stimulated with 8-bromo-cAMP +/- LPS. RESULTS Alcohol extracts of all three Echinacea species significantly inhibited NO production by lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-activated the RAW 264.7 macrophage cell line; among them Echinacea pallida was the most active. The Echinacea-mediated decrease in NO production was unlikely due to a direct scavenging of NO because the extracts did not directly inhibit NO released from an NO donor, sodium nitroprusside. An immunoblotting assay demonstrated that the extract of Echinacea pallida inhibited inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) protein expression in LPS-treated macrophages. The enzymes iNOS and arginase metabolize a common substrate, l-arginine, but produce distinct biological effects. While iNOS is involved in inflammatory response and host defense, arginase participates actively in anti-inflammatory activation. Arginase activity of RAW 264.7 cells stimulated with 8-bromo-cAMP was significantly increased by alcohol extracts of all three Echinacea species. The polar fraction containing caffeic acid derivatives enhanced arginase activity, while the lipophilic fraction containing alkamides exhibited a potential of inhibiting NO production and iNOS expression. CONCLUSIONS These results suggest that the anti-inflammatory activity of Echinacea might be due to multiple active metabolites, which work together to switch macrophage activation from classical activation towards alternative activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zili Zhai
- Department of Animal Science, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA
- Neuroscience Program, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA
| | - Avery Solco
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA
| | - Lankun Wu
- Department of Genetics, Developmental and Cell Biology, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA
| | - Eve S. Wurtele
- Department of Genetics, Developmental and Cell Biology, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA
| | - Marian L. Kohut
- Department of Kinesiology, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA
| | - Patricia A. Murphy
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA
| | - Joan E. Cunnick
- Department of Animal Science, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA
- Neuroscience Program, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA
- Microbiology Program, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA
- Corresponding author at: Microbiology Program, 207 Science I, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA. Tel: +1 515 294 2070; fax: +1 515 294 6019. E-mail address: (J. E. Cunnick)
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210
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Egger M, Pellett P, Nickl K, Geiger S, Graetz S, Seifert R, Heilmann J, König B. Synthesis and cannabinoid receptor activity of ketoalkenes from Echinacea pallida and nonnatural analogues. Chemistry 2009; 14:10978-84. [PMID: 18979494 DOI: 10.1002/chem.200801579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Despite its popularity and widespread use, the efficacy of Echinacea products remains unclear and controversial. Among the various compounds isolated from Echinacea, ketoalkenes and ketoalkenynes exclusively found in the pale purple coneflower (E. pallida) are major components of the extracts. In contrast to E. purpurea alkamides, these compounds have not been synthesized and studied for immunostimulatory effects. We present a practical and useful synthetic approach to the ketoalkenes using palladium-catalyzed cross-coupling reactions and the pharmaceutical results at the human cannabinoid receptors. The synthetic route developed provides overall good yields for the ketoalkenes and is applicable to other natural products with similar 1,4-diene motifs. No significant activity was observed at either receptor, indicating that the ketoalkenes from E. pallida are not responsible for immunomodulatory effects mediated via the cannabinergic system. However, newly synthesized non-natural analogues showed micro-molar potency at both cannabinoid receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Egger
- Institut für Organische Chemie, Universität Regensburg, 93040 Regensburg, Germany
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211
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Gurley BJ, Swain A, Williams DK, Barone G, Battu SK. Gauging the clinical significance of P-glycoprotein-mediated herb-drug interactions: comparative effects of St. John's wort, Echinacea, clarithromycin, and rifampin on digoxin pharmacokinetics. Mol Nutr Food Res 2008; 52:772-9. [PMID: 18214850 DOI: 10.1002/mnfr.200700081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Concomitant administration of botanical supplements with drugs that are P-glycoprotein (P-gp) substrates may produce clinically significant herb-drug interactions. This study evaluated the effects of St. John's wort and Echinacea on the pharmacokinetics of digoxin, a recognized P-gp substrate. Eighteen healthy volunteers were randomly assigned to receive a standardized St. John's wort (300 mg three times daily) or Echinacea (267 mg three times daily) supplement for 14 days, followed by a 30-day washout period. Subjects were also randomized to receive rifampin (300 mg twice daily, 7 days) and clarithromycin (500 mg twice daily, 7 days) as positive controls for P-gp induction and inhibition, respectively. Digoxin (Lanoxin 0.25 mg) was administered orally before and after each supplementation and control period. Serial digoxin plasma concentrations were obtained over 24 h and analyzed by chemiluminescent immunoassay. Comparisons of area under the curve (AUC)((0-3)), AUC((0-24)), elimination half-life, and maximum serum concentration were used to assess the effects of St. John's wort, Echinacea, rifampin, and clarithromycin on digoxin disposition. St. John's wort and rifampin both produced significant reductions (p < 0.05) in AUC((0-3)), AUC((0-24)), and C(max), while clarithromycin increased these parameters significantly (p < 0.05). Echinacea supplementation did not affect digoxin pharmacokinetics. Clinically significant P-gp-mediated herb-drug interactions are more likely to occur with St. John's wort than with Echinacea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bill J Gurley
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, General Clinical Research Center, Little Rock, AR 72205, USA.
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212
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Biella CDA, Salvador MJ, Dias DA, Dias-Baruffi M, Pereira-Crott LS. Evaluation of immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory effects and phytochemical screening of Alternanthera tenella Colla (Amaranthaceae) aqueous extracts. Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz 2008; 103:569-77. [DOI: 10.1590/s0074-02762008000600010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2008] [Accepted: 08/19/2008] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
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213
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Guiotto P, Woelkart K, Grabnar I, Voinovich D, Perissutti B, Invernizzi S, Granzotto M, Bauer R. Pharmacokinetics and immunomodulatory effects of phytotherapeutic lozenges (bonbons) with Echinacea purpurea extract. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2008; 15:547-54. [PMID: 18583121 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2008.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2008] [Revised: 04/18/2008] [Accepted: 05/08/2008] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
The relative bioavailability of the major alkamides, dodeca-2E,4E,8Z,10E/Z-tetraenoic acid isobutylamides, from Echinacea purpurea phytotherapeutic lozenges at three different dose levels (0.07, 0.21 and 0.9 mg) was evaluated in a pharmacokinetic study in humans and the possible effects on the immunological system were measured. Alkamides were found to be rapidly absorbed and measurable in plasma 10 min after administration of 0.21 and 0.9 mg lozenges and remained detectable for 3h for the 0.21 mg lozenges and for more then 3h for the 0.9 mg lozenges; 0.07 mg lozenges were measurable 20 min after administration and remained detectable for only 2h after the administration. A significant dose-independent down-regulation of the pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-12p70, IL-8, IL-6, IL-10 and TNF was observed 24h after oral administration. The results of non-compartmental pharmacokinetic analysis revealed that a C(max) of (0.65+/-0.41 ng/ml) was reached at 32 min with the 0.07 mg lozenges, (1.00+/-0.21ng/ml) at 25 min with the 0.21 mg lozenges and (8.88+/-5.89 ng/ml) at 19 with the 0.9mg lozenges. As evidenced by the dose-exposure relationship, no significant departure from dose proportionality was observed, indicating linearity in pharmacokinetics. To get a further insight in pharmacokinetics of dodeca-2E,4E,8Z,10E/Z-tetraenoic isobutylamides a compartmental population pharmacokinetic model was developed applying mixed effect modelling procedure. The results demonstrate that within the dose range studied pharmacokinetics of dodeca-2E,4E,8Z,10E/Z-tetraenoic isobutylamides are linear and that absorption is very rapid (t(1/2)=6 min) with apparently no lag time, thus indicating the possibility that a fraction of the drug is absorbed through the oral mucosa.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Guiotto
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Trieste, P.le Europa 1, I-34127 Trieste, Italy
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214
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Starvaggi Cucuzza L, Motta M, Accornero P, Baratta M. Effect of Echinacea augustifolia extract on cell viability and differentiation in mammary epithelial cells. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2008; 15:555-562. [PMID: 18424103 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2008.02.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2007] [Revised: 01/10/2008] [Accepted: 02/28/2008] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Echinacea spp. are popularly used as an herbal medicine or food supplement for enhancing the immune system and activating biological property in different tissues. In this study we show the biological effect of Echinacea augustifolia extract on cell viability and cell differentiation in mammary epithelial cell lines. These effects have been observed in two different cell line derived from mouse (HC11) and bovine (BME-UV). Echinacea extract enhanced cell liability from 100 to 1000 ng/ml in association with growth factors, epidermal growth factor (EGF) or insulin, but also without EGF (p<0.05) up to 37% vs. control. This effect may be modulated by MAPK and Akt activation that Echinacea extract treatment increased and/or by a reduction of caspase 3 activity, showed a dose-response decrease after Echinacea treatment. Finally Echinacea extract was able to increase (p<0.05) at 100 ng/ml beta-casein expression in association with PRL (5 microg/ml). These data demonstrate that Echinacea angustifolia extract can stimulate mammary epithelial cell physiology and may be considered a candidate to support mammary gland activity during a mammogenetic and lactogenetic state.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Starvaggi Cucuzza
- Department of Veterinary Morphophysiology, University of Torino, Via Leonardo da Vinci 44, 10095 Grugliasco, TO, Italy
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215
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Carratù B, Boniglia C, Giammarioli S, Mosca M, Sanzini E. Free amino acids in botanicals and botanical preparations. J Food Sci 2008; 73:C323-8. [PMID: 18576976 DOI: 10.1111/j.1750-3841.2008.00767.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Numerous studies were carried out about aminoacidic composition of vegetable proteins, but information about the free amino acid pool and the role of these substances is very incomplete. The aim of this paper was to contribute to the scarce knowledge concerning the composition of free amino acids in botanicals and botanical preparations widely used as food, in dietary supplements, and in pharmaceutical products. This work studied the composition of free amino acids, identified the major components of 19 species of plants, and evaluated the influence of different types of extraction on the amino acid profile. Amino acids were determined using an automatic precolumn derivatization with fluorenylmethyl-chloroformate and reversed-phase liquid chromatography with fluorescence and ultraviolet detection. The amounts of total free amino acids varied widely between plants, from approximately 12 g in 100 g of Echinacea pallida extract to less than 60 mg in the same amount of Coleus forskohlii, Garcinia cambogia, and Glycine max. In 13 plants arginine, asparagine, glutamine, proline, and gamma-aminobutyric acid were the free amino acids found in preponderant quantities. The levels of free amino acids above the quantification limit in 36 assayed samples of botanicals, extracts, and supplements are shown.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Carratù
- National Center for Food Quality and Risk Assessment--Inst. Superiore di Sanità, viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy.
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216
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Chicca A, Pellati F, Adinolfi B, Matthias A, Massarelli I, Benvenuti S, Martinotti E, Bianucci AM, Bone K, Lehmann R, Nieri P. Cytotoxic activity of polyacetylenes and polyenes isolated from roots of Echinacea pallida. Br J Pharmacol 2008; 153:879-85. [PMID: 18193076 DOI: 10.1038/sj.bjp.0707639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE The n-hexane extracts of the roots of three medicinally used Echinacea species exhibited cytotoxic activity on human cancer cell lines, with Echinacea pallida found to be the most cytotoxic. Acetylenes are present in E. pallida lipophilic extracts but essentially absent in extracts from the other two species. In the present study, the cytotoxic effects of five compounds, two polyacetylenes (namely, 8-hydroxy-pentadeca-(9E)-ene-11,13-diyn-2-one (1) and pentadeca-(9E)-ene-11,13-diyne-2,8-dione (3)) and three polyenes (namely, 8-hydroxy-pentadeca-(9E,13Z)-dien-11-yn-2-one (2), pentadeca-(9E,13Z)-dien-11-yne-2,8-dione (4) and pentadeca-(8Z,13Z)-dien-11-yn-2-one (5)), isolated from the n-hexane extract of E. pallida roots by bioassay-guided fractionation, were investigated and the potential bioavailability of these compounds in the extract was studied. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Cytotoxic effects were assessed on human pancreatic MIA PaCa-2 and colonic COLO320 cancer cell lines. Cell viability was evaluated by the WST-1 assay and apoptotic cell death by the cytosolic internucleosomal DNA enrichment and the caspase 3/7 activity tests. Caco-2 cell monolayers were used to assess the potential bioavailability of the acetylenes. KEY RESULTS The five compounds exhibited concentration-dependent cytotoxicity in both cell types, with a greater potency in the colonic cancer cells. Apoptotic cell death was found to be involved in the cytotoxic effect of the most active, compound 5. Compounds 2 and 5 were found to cross the Caco-2 monolayer with apparent permeabilities above 10 x 10(-6) cm s(-1). CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Compounds isolated from n-hexane extracts of E. pallida roots have a direct cytotoxicity on cancer cells and good potential for absorption in humans when taken orally.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Chicca
- Department of Psychiatry, Neurobiology, Pharmacology and Biotechnology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
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217
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Zhai Z, Haney D, Wu L, Solco A, Murphy PA, Wurtele ES, Kohut ML, Cunnick JE. Alcohol extracts of Echinacea inhibit production of nitric oxide and tumor necrosis factor-alpha by macrophages in vitro. FOOD AGR IMMUNOL 2007; 18:221-236. [PMID: 18458735 DOI: 10.1080/09540100701797363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
It has been suggested that Echinacea has anti-inflammatory activity in vivo. Nitric oxide (NO), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and interleukin-1beta are important mediators in the inflammatory response. The effect of alcohol extracts of E. angustifolia (EA), E. pallida (EPA) and E. purpurea (EP) on the production of these inflammatory mediators in both LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages in vitro and murine peritoneal exudate cells (PECs) in vivo were investigated. As macrophages produce these inflammatory mediators in response to pathogenic infection, parallel cultures of macrophages were studied for phagocytosis and intracellular killing of Salmonella enterica. EPA and EP in vitro inhibited NO production and TNF-α release in a dose-dependent manner. RAW 264.7 cells treated with EA or EP showed decreased killing over 24 h, although EA enhanced bacterial phagocytosis. Upon bacterial infection, RAW 264.7 cells produce high levels of NO; however, an Echinacea-mediated decrease in NO production was observed. Echinacea alcohol extracts administered orally at 130 mg/kg per day for seven days had a weak effect on NO production and phagocytosis by LPS-stimulated PECs. The results indicated that all Echinacea species significantly decreased inflammatory mediators in vitro, however, only EA and EP reduced bacterial killing. Oral administration of Echinacea alcohol extracts did not adversely affect the development and anti-bacterial function of inflammatory PECs in vivo, however, NO production was decreased during bacterial infection of PECs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zili Zhai
- Department of Animal Science, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, USA
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218
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McCann DA, Solco A, Liu Y, Macaluso F, Murphy PA, Kohut ML, Senchina DS. Cytokine- and interferon-modulating properties of Echinacea spp. root tinctures stored at -20 degrees C for 2 years. J Interferon Cytokine Res 2007; 27:425-36. [PMID: 17523874 PMCID: PMC2265595 DOI: 10.1089/jir.2006.0104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Echinacea spp. phytomedicines are popular for treating upper respiratory infections. The purpose of this investigation was to examine the immunomodulatory properties of Echinacea tinctures from seven species after being stored at -20 degrees C for 2 years. Two experimental techniques were employed using human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC). In the first set of experiments, PBMCs were stimulated in vitro with tinctures alone and assayed for proliferation and production of interleukin-10 (IL-10), IL-12, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha). In the second set of experiments, subjects were immunized with influenza vaccine. PBMCs from vaccinated individuals were stimulated in vitro with Echinacea tinctures and influenza virus; cytokine production (IL-2, IL-10, and interferon-gamma [IFN-gamma]) was compared prevaccination and postvaccination. In the first experiments, (1) tinctures from E. angustifolia, E. pallida, E. paradoxa, and E. tennesseensis stimulated proliferation and tended to increase IL-10, (2) E. sanguinea and E. simulata stimulated only proliferation, (3) E. purpurea stimulated only IL-10, and (4) none of the extracts influenced IL-12 or TNF-alpha. In the second experiments, (1) tinctures from E. pallida, E. paradoxa, E. sanguinea, and E. simulata diminished influenza-specific IL-2, and (2) none of the extracts influenced influenza-specific IL-10 or IFN-gamma. For in vitro models using Echinacea, immune response may vary based on stimulus (Echinacea alone vs. Echinacea + recall stimulation with virus).
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Affiliation(s)
- Dustin A McCann
- Department of Health and Human Performance, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011-1061
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219
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Kraus GA, Bae J, Wu L, Wurtele E. The synthesis and natural distribution of the major ketone constituents in Echinacea pallida. Molecules 2007; 12:406-14. [PMID: 17851399 PMCID: PMC1986633 DOI: 10.3390/12030406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2007] [Revised: 03/07/2007] [Accepted: 03/07/2007] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The first synthesis of a series of ketones naturally occurring in E. pallida is described. The natural distribution of these ketones among different Echinacea species is also reported.
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Affiliation(s)
- George A Kraus
- Iowa State University Department of Chemistry, Ames, IA 50011, USA.
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220
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Chicca A, Adinolfi B, Martinotti E, Fogli S, Breschi MC, Pellati F, Benvenuti S, Nieri P. Cytotoxic effects of Echinacea root hexanic extracts on human cancer cell lines. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2007; 110:148-53. [PMID: 17052874 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2006.09.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2006] [Accepted: 09/15/2006] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
Echinacea is one of the most widely used alternative medicine in the world. Intake of Echinacea preparations is common among patients with advanced malignancies enrolled onto phase I chemotherapy trials; however, to our knowledge, no data are available regarding the possible direct effect of Echinacea species on human cancer cells. The purpose of the present study was to investigate potential in vitro cytotoxic and pro-apoptotic properties of hexanic root extract of the three medicinal Echinacea (Asteraceae) species (Echinacea pallida (Nutt.) Nutt., Echinacea angustifolia DC. var. angustifolia, Echinacea purpurea (L.) Moench.) on the human pancreatic cancer MIA PaCa-2 and colon cancer COLO320 cell lines. We demonstrated, for the first time, that all the three species reduced cell viability in a concentration- and time-dependent manner; Echinacea pallida was the most active species with IC(50)s of 46.41+/-0.87 and 10.55+/-0.70 microg/ml in MIA PaCa-2 and COLO320 cells, respectively. Echinacea pallida extract was able to induce apoptosis by increasing significantly caspase 3/7 activity and promoting nuclear DNA fragmentation. These results represent the starting point to establish viable scientific evidence on the possible role of Echinacea species in medical oncology.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Chicca
- Department of Psychiatry, Neurobiology, Pharmacology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 6, Pisa PI 56126, Italy.
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221
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Synthesis and natural distribution of anti-inflammatory alkamides from Echinacea. Molecules 2006; 11:758-67. [PMID: 17971752 DOI: 10.3390/11100758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2006] [Revised: 10/10/2006] [Accepted: 10/16/2006] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The synthesis of the alkamides 2Z,4E-undeca-2,4-dien-8,10-diynoic acid isobutyl amide (1) and 2Z,4E-undeca-2,4-dien-8,10-diynoic acid isobutyl amide (5) was accomplished by organometallic coupling followed by introduction of the doubly unsaturated amide moiety. The distribution of these two amides in accessions of the nine species of Echinacea was determined.
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222
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Piante medicinali adattogene ed immunostimolanti. Fitoterapia 2006. [DOI: 10.1007/88-470-0505-1_27] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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223
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Adinolfi B, Chicca A, Martinotti E, Breschi MC, Nieri P. Sequence characterized amplified region (SCAR) analysis on DNA from the three medicinal Echinacea species. Fitoterapia 2006; 78:43-5. [PMID: 17067760 DOI: 10.1016/j.fitote.2006.09.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2005] [Accepted: 09/07/2006] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
In our previous study, RAPD (Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA) analysis revealed species-specific markers for three medicinal Echinacea species (Asteraceae): E. angustifolia DC., E. pallida (Nutt.) Nutt. and E. purpurea (L.) Moench. In the present work, we have converted a RAPD marker (750 bp) for E. purpurea into a SCAR (Sequence Characterized Amplified Region) marker. SCAR-PCR, in fact, revealed the expected amplicon (330 bp) only in E. purpurea and not in the other two species, giving further evidence for differences in medicinal Echinacea spp. genome and confirming a greater similarity between E. pallida and angustifolia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Adinolfi
- Department of Psychiatry, Neurobiology, Pharmacology and Biotechnology, University of Pisa, Italy.
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224
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Schoop R, Klein P, Suter A, Johnston SL. Echinacea in the prevention of induced rhinovirus colds: a meta-analysis. Clin Ther 2006; 28:174-83. [PMID: 16678640 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinthera.2006.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/29/2005] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The therapeutic effectiveness of Echinacea in the treatment and the prevention of colds has been debated. Studies of naturally occurring colds are hampered by variability in time from onset of symptoms to treatment and by heterogeneity in trial design. Experimental infection studies allow for the standardization of time to initiation of treatment, virus type and dose, and immune competence of volunteers. OBJECTIVE To determine whether the negative results obtained in previous studies of Echinacea were a consequence of efficacy or of inadequate sample size, we performed a meta-analysis of experimental rhinovirus infection studies on the efficacy of Echinacea extracts to prevent symptomatic development of an experimentally induced cold. METHODS We carried out a systematic search of English- and German-language literature using the MEDLINE, EMBASE, CAplus, BIOSIS, CABA, AGRICOLA, TOXCENTER, SCISEARCH, NAHL, and NAPRALERT, databases and the search terms Echinacea, black Sampson, coneflower, and Roter Sonnenbut. Matching documents were then searched for > or = 1 of the following terms: rhinovirus, RV, inoculation, Inokulation, induced, induziert, artificial, and artifiziell. Suitable studies were identified and pooled for analysis. The primary end point was the development of symptomatic clinical colds, as defined by the authors of the original studies. Results were reported as differences in the proportion of subjects with symptomatic episodes of a common cold, expressed as odds ratios (ORs) and 95% CIs. The secondary outcome was the difference in total symptom severity scores between treatment groups (assessed daily by integrating the severity scores of 8 individual cold-related symptoms that were rated on a scale from 0 [absent] to 4 [very severe]). RESULTS A total of 234 articles were identified through the literature search; 231 were excluded from the analysis because they related to studies of spontaneous common colds. Three suitable studies were selected for pooling of data. Based on the analysis, the likelihood of experiencing a clinical cold was 55% higher with placebo than with Echinacea (OR, 1.55 [95% CI, 1.02-2.36]; P<0.043). The absolute difference in total symptom scores between groups was -1.96 (95% CI, -4.83 to 0.90; P=NS). CONCLUSIONS This meta-analysis suggests that standardized extracts of Echinacea were effective in the prevention of symptoms of the common cold after clinical inoculation, compared with placebo. Further prospective, appropriately powered clinical studies are required to confirm this finding.
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Raduner S, Majewska A, Chen JZ, Xie XQ, Hamon J, Faller B, Altmann KH, Gertsch J. Alkylamides from Echinacea are a new class of cannabinomimetics. Cannabinoid type 2 receptor-dependent and -independent immunomodulatory effects. J Biol Chem 2006; 281:14192-206. [PMID: 16547349 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m601074200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 183] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Alkylamides (alkamides) from Echinacea modulate tumor necrosis factor alpha mRNA expression in human monocytes/macrophages via the cannabinoid type 2 (CB2) receptor (Gertsch, J., Schoop, R., Kuenzle, U., and Suter, A. (2004) FEBS Lett. 577, 563-569). Here we show that the alkylamides dodeca-2E,4E,8Z,10Z-tetraenoic acid isobutylamide (A1) and dodeca-2E,4E-dienoic acid isobutylamide (A2) bind to the CB2 receptor more strongly than the endogenous cannabinoids. The Ki values of A1 and A2 (CB2 approximately 60 nM; CB1 >1500 nM) were determined by displacement of the synthetic high affinity cannabinoid ligand [3H]CP-55,940. Molecular modeling suggests that alkylamides bind in the solvent-accessible cavity in CB2, directed by H-bonding and pi-pi interactions. In a screen with 49 other pharmacologically relevant receptors, it could be shown that A1 and A2 specifically bind to CB2 and CB1. A1 and A2 elevated total intracellular Ca2+ in CB2-positive but not in CB2-negative promyelocytic HL60 cells, an effect that was inhibited by the CB2 antagonist SR144528. At 50 nM, A1, A2, and the endogenous cannabinoid anandamide (CB2 Ki >200 nM) up-regulated constitutive interleukin (IL)-6 expression in human whole blood in a seemingly CB2-dependent manner. A1, A2, anandamide, the CB2 antagonist SR144528 (Ki <10 nM), and also the non-CB2-binding alkylamide undeca-2E-ene,8,10-diynoic acid isobutylamide all significantly inhibited lipopolysaccharide-induced tumor necrosis factor alpha, IL-1beta, and IL-12p70 expression (5-500 nM) in a CB2-independent manner. Alkylamides and anandamide also showed weak differential effects on anti-CD3-versus anti-CD28-stimulated cytokine expression in human whole blood. Overall, alkylamides, anandamide, and SR144528 potently inhibited lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammation in human whole blood and exerted modulatory effects on cytokine expression, but these effects are not exclusively related to CB2 binding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Raduner
- Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences, ETH Zurich, Wolfgang-Pauli-Strasse 10, CH-8093 Zürich, Switzerland
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