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Suhana PA, Kusum L, Shruti JV, Sreekanth GP, Bijukumar D, Shaji Kumar RT, Muraleedharan KC, Kaushik S. Immunological Responses of Arsenicum album 30CH to Combat COVID-19: Protocol for a Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial in the Pathanamthitta District of Kerala. JMIR Res Protoc 2023; 12:e48479. [PMID: 37843912 PMCID: PMC10616730 DOI: 10.2196/48479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Revised: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND COVID-19 is a recent major public health concern caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, with approximately 44.6 million COVID-19-positive cases and 530,000 deaths in India (as of February 1, 2023). The COVID-19 vaccination drive in India was initiated in January 2021; however, an effective preventive strategy with high efficacy and immunological safety remains elusive. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study is to assess the immunogenic responses of Arsenicum album 30CH (AA30CH) as COVID-19 prophylaxis, including assessment of immunological markers, innate and acquired immune responses, COVID-19 symptoms, and its associated antibody responses. METHODS This randomized controlled clinical trial (RCT) will include two parallel comparator groups of AA30CH and placebo with an allocation ratio of 1:1 conducted in the Pathanamthitta district of Kerala, India. The placebo or AA30CH will be administered in three intervention schedules and blood samples will be collected before and after each of the intervention schedules. Based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 112 participants per arm (with an expected dropout of 20%) will be screened. Immunogenic responses will be evaluated by determining the antigen density and modulation in immunological markers and lymphocyte subsets CD3, CD4, CD8, CD24, CD27, CD38, CD4 interferon-γ, CD4 CD17, CD4 CD25 (activated T lymphocytes), T cells, B cells, dendritic cells (mature and immature), and natural killer cells on days 1, 5, 23,27, 45, 49, and 66. The innate and acquired immune responses will also be evaluated by a real-time reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) array profiler (84-gene set) before and after the study interventions. The toxicity status of AA30CH in study participants will be evaluated through hepatic, renal, and hematological parameters and peripheral smears on days 1, 5, 23, 27, 45, 49, and 66. The number of participants developing COVID-19-like symptoms per National Centre for Disease Control guidelines and the number of participants testing positive for COVID-19 in RT-PCR during follow-ups in any of the three intervention schedules will be identified. Moreover, a subgroup analysis will be used to assess the COVID-19 antibody responses between vaccinated and unvaccinated participants. RESULTS This RCT protocol has been approved by various committees and funded by the Central Council for Research in Homoeopathy, Ministry of Ayush, Government of India. The project has been implemented in collaboration with the Department of Homoeopathy, Government of Kerala. The RCT was rolled out on January 25, 2023, and enrollment was completed April 3, 2023. The immunological assays will be conducted at the Department of Biotechnology-Translational Health Science and Technology Institute, Faridabad, India. CONCLUSIONS This study will represent the first evaluation of the immunological efficacy and safety of AA30CH in an RCT, which may significantly impact the use of homeopathy as an evidence-based medicine approach. TRIAL REGISTRATION Clinical Trials Registry-India CTRI/2022/08/045089; https://tinyurl.com/mryrpkvk. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) DERR1-10.2196/48479.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lata Kusum
- Department of Clinical Research, Central Council for Research in Homoeopathy, New Delhi, India
| | - Jain Vij Shruti
- Department of Clinical Research, Central Council for Research in Homoeopathy, New Delhi, India
| | - Gopinathan Pillai Sreekanth
- Department of Applied Biology, Council of Scientific and Industrial Research-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology, Hyderabad, India
| | - Damodaran Bijukumar
- District Medical Office (Pathanamthitta), Directorate of Homoeopathy, Government of Kerala, Pathanamthitta, India
| | - R T Shaji Kumar
- Department of Clinical Research, Central Council for Research in Homoeopathy, New Delhi, India
| | - K C Muraleedharan
- National Homoeopathy Research Institute Mental Health, Central Council for Research in Homoeopathy, Government of India, Kottayam, India
| | - Subhash Kaushik
- Department of Clinical Research, Central Council for Research in Homoeopathy, New Delhi, India
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Teixeira MZ. "Genomic Homeopathy" proposal: use of auto-isotherapic of DNA as a modulator of gene expression in chronic diseases. REVISTA DA ASSOCIACAO MEDICA BRASILEIRA (1992) 2023; 69:13-17. [PMID: 36629657 PMCID: PMC9937616 DOI: 10.1590/1806-9282.20221156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Marcus Zulian Teixeira
- Universidade de São Paulo, Hospital das Clínicas, Faculdade de Medicina, Departamento de Psiquiatria – São Paulo (SP), Brazil.,Corresponding author:
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Nader TT, Leonel AH, Henrique CY, Contini SHT, Crevelin EJ, França SDC, Berton BW, Pereira AMS. Dynamized Aloysia Polystachya (Griseb.) Essential Oil: A Promising Antimicrobial Product. HOMEOPATHY 2022; 112:120-124. [PMID: 35768002 DOI: 10.1055/s-0042-1748320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Compounds from vegetal matter have therapeutic potential to control highly prevalent microorganisms that are resistant to commonly used antimicrobial drugs. Dynamization of compounds can either maintain or improve their therapeutic effects, and make their use safer, especially those compounds whose therapeutic dose is close to the toxic limit. Aloysia polystachya (Griseb.) stands out among aromatic plants with antimicrobial potential. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of dynamized and crude forms of A. polystachya essential oil against Candida albicans, Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. METHODS Essential oil was extracted from A. polystachya dry leaves, solubilized, and dynamized at 1 cH potency as recommended by the Brazilian Homeopathic Pharmacopoeia. Antimicrobial activity against C. albicans, E. coli and S. aureus of the samples was assayed using the plate microdilution method. RESULTS Dynamized A. polystachya essential oil at the concentration of 1 μg/mL inhibited the growth of all the microbial species analyzed. The minimum inhibitory concentration of dynamized essential oil was smaller than crude essential oil for S. aureus, E. coli and C. albicans. CONCLUSION It is reported for the first time that A. polystachya dynamized essential oil can effectively suppress microbial growth, and it is a promising adjuvant to treat infections with pathogenic S. aureus, E. coli and C. albicans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Talita Thomaz Nader
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Ribeirão Preto (UNAERP), Ribeirão Preto, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Eduardo José Crevelin
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Philosophy, Sciences and Letters at Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo (USP), São Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Suzelei de Castro França
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Ribeirão Preto (UNAERP), Ribeirão Preto, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Bianca Waléria Berton
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Ribeirão Preto (UNAERP), Ribeirão Preto, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ana Maria Soares Pereira
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Ribeirão Preto (UNAERP), Ribeirão Preto, Sao Paulo, Brazil
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Teixeira MZ. Telomere and Telomerase: Biological Markers of Organic Vital Force State and Homeopathic Treatment Effectiveness. HOMEOPATHY 2021; 110:283-291. [PMID: 34000743 PMCID: PMC8575553 DOI: 10.1055/s-0041-1726008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2020] [Accepted: 12/03/2020] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Philosophical-scientific correlations described in previous studies suggest that the genome can be the biological representation of the vital force, whilst the disease-promoting epigenetic alterations would be the biological representation of the chronic miasmas. In this study, we expand the functional correlation between vital force and chromosomes, describing the mechanism of action of the telomere-telomerase complex in the context of physiological balance. AIMS The aim of the work is to study the role of the telomere-telomerase complex in cell vitality, biological aging, and the health-disease process, with the goal of proposing the use of telomere length as a biomarker of the vital force state and the effectiveness of homeopathic treatment. RESULTS Similar to the vital force, telomere length and telomerase enzyme activity play an important role in maintaining cellular vitality, biological longevity, and physiological homeostasis. Telomere shortening functions as a biomarker of vital imbalance and is associated with numerous diseases and health disorders. On the other hand, health-promotion practices neutralize the pathological shortening of the telomeres, acting therapeutically in diseases or age-dependent health disorders. CONCLUSIONS As a hypothetical biomarker of the vital force state, an intra-individual analysis of the mean leukocyte telomere length before, during, and after homeopathic treatment can be used as a biomarker of therapeutic effectiveness.
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Pinto AAG, Nagai MYDO, Coimbra EN, Mohammad SN, Silva JS, Von Ancken A, Pinto SAG, Aguiar MS, Dutra-Correa M, Hortellani MA, Miranda A, Sarkis JEDS, Suffredini IB, Peres GB, Bernardi MM, Cartwright SJ, Bonamin LV. Bioresilience to Mercury Chloride of the Brine Shrimp Artemia Salina after Treatment with Homeopathic Mercurius Corrosivus. HOMEOPATHY 2021; 110:244-255. [PMID: 34474498 DOI: 10.1055/s-0041-1729562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Finding solutions to mitigate the impact of pollution on living systems is a matter of great interest. Homeopathic preparations of toxic substances have been described in the literature as attenuation factors for intoxication. Herein, an experimental study using Artemia salina and mercury chloride was developed as a model to identify aspects related to bioresilience. AIMS The aim of the study was to describe the effects of homeopathic Mercurius corrosivus (MC) on Artemia salina cysts hatching and on mercury bioavailability. METHODS Artemia salina cysts were exposed to 5.0 µg/mL of mercury chloride during the hatching phase. MC potencies (6cH, 30cH, and 200cH) were prepared in sterile purified water and poured into artificial sea water. Different controls were used (non-challenged cysts and challenged cysts treated with water, succussed water, and Ethilicum 1cH). Four series of nine experiments were performed to evaluate the percentage of cyst hatching. Soluble total mercury (THg) levels and precipitated mercury content were also evaluated. Solvatochromic dyes were used to check for eventual physicochemical markers of MC biological activity. RESULTS Significant delay (p < 0.0001) in cyst hatching was observed only after treatment with MC 30cH, compared with controls. This result was associated with an increase of THg concentration in water (p = 0.0018) and of chlorine/oxygen ratio (p < 0.0001) in suspended micraggregates, suggesting changes in mercury bioavailability. A specific interaction of MC 30cH with the solvatochromic dye ET33 (p = 0.0017) was found. CONCLUSION Changes in hatching rate and possible changes in Hg bioavailability are postulated as protective effects of MC 30cH on Artemia salina, by improving its natural bioresilience processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreia Adelaide G Pinto
- Graduation Program in Environmental and Experimental Pathology, Universidade Paulista, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Mirian Y de Oliveira Nagai
- Graduation Program in Environmental and Experimental Pathology, Universidade Paulista, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ednar Nascimento Coimbra
- Graduation Program in Environmental and Experimental Pathology, Universidade Paulista, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Jefferson Souza Silva
- Graduation Program in Environmental and Experimental Pathology, Universidade Paulista, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Adalberto Von Ancken
- Graduation Program in Environmental and Experimental Pathology, Universidade Paulista, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Sandra Augusta G Pinto
- Graduation Program in Environmental and Experimental Pathology, Universidade Paulista, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Michelle Sanchez Aguiar
- Graduation Program in Environmental and Experimental Pathology, Universidade Paulista, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Maristela Dutra-Correa
- Graduation Program in Environmental and Experimental Pathology, Universidade Paulista, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Adriana Miranda
- IPEN-Institute of Energy and Nuclear Research, São Paulo, Brazil, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Ivana Barbosa Suffredini
- Graduation Program in Environmental and Experimental Pathology, Universidade Paulista, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Giovani Bravin Peres
- Graduation Program in Environmental and Experimental Pathology, Universidade Paulista, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Maria Martha Bernardi
- Graduation Program in Environmental and Experimental Pathology, Universidade Paulista, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Leoni Villano Bonamin
- Graduation Program in Environmental and Experimental Pathology, Universidade Paulista, São Paulo, Brazil
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Low-dose Drosera rotundifolia induces gene expression changes in 16HBE human bronchial epithelial cells. Sci Rep 2021; 11:2356. [PMID: 33504888 PMCID: PMC7840928 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-81843-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2020] [Accepted: 01/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Drosera rotundifolia has been traditionally used for the treatment of respiratory diseases in phytotherapy and homeopathy. The mechanisms of action recognized so far are linked to the known effects of specific components, such as flavonoids, but are not completely understood. In this study, the biological functions of D. rotundifolia were explored in vitro following the treatment of bronchial epithelial cells, which are the potential targets of the pharmacological effects of the herbal medicine. To do so, the whole plant ethanolic extract was 1000-fold diluted in water (D. rotundifolia 3×) and added to a 16HBE human cell line culture for 3 h or 6 h. The effects on gene expression of the treatments and corresponding controls were then investigated by RNA sequencing. The differentially expressed genes were validated through RT-qPCR, and the enriched biological functions involved in the effects of treatment were investigated. D. rotundifolia 3× did not impair cell viability and was shown to be a stimulant of cell functions by regulating the expression of dozens of genes after 3 h, and the effects were amplified after 6 h of treatment. The main differentially expressed genes encoded ligands of epithelial growth factor receptor, proteins involved in xenobiotic detoxification and cytokines, suggesting that D. rotundifolia 3× could stimulate self-repair systems, which are impaired in airway diseases. Furthermore, D. rotundifolia 3× acts on a complex and multifaceted set of genes and may potentially affect different layers of the bronchial mucosa.
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Novaes MAS, Lima LF, Sá NAR, Ferreira ACA, Paes VM, Souza JF, Alves BG, Gramosa NV, Torres CAA, Pukazhenthi B, Gastal EL, Figueiredo JR. Impact of ethanol and heat stress-dependent effect of ultra-diluted Arnica montana 6 cH on in vitro embryo production in cattle. Theriogenology 2021; 162:105-110. [PMID: 33453574 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.12.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2020] [Revised: 12/27/2020] [Accepted: 12/30/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
This study evaluated the effect of adding ultra-diluted and dynamized Arnica montana 6 cH, and its vehicle (0.3% ethanol) to the in vitro maturation (IVM) medium, in the absence (experiment 1) or presence (experiment 2) of heat stress (HS), on bovine oocyte maturation and in vitro embryo production (IVEP). In experiment 1 (n = 902 cumulus oocyte complexes, COCs), the treatments were 1) IVM medium (Control treatment), 2) IVM medium + 0.3% ethanol, and 3) IVM medium + Arnica montana 6 cH. In experiment 2 (n = 1064 COCs), the treatments were 1) IVM medium without HS, 2) IVM medium under HS, 3) IVM medium + ethanol under HS, and 4) IVM medium + Arnica montana under HS. In the absence of HS (experiment 1), the addition of Arnica montana to the IVM medium had a deleterious effect on the IVEP (cleavage and blastocyst rates) and the total cell number/blastocysts. On the other hand, ethanol (0.3%) increased IVEP in relation to the Control and Arnica montana treatments. However, in the presence of HS during IVM (experiment 2), the addition of ethanol or Arnica montana increased IVEP when compared to the HS treatment alone, and the Arnica montana treatment resulted in greater total cell number/blastocysts compared to the other treatments. In conclusion, this study showed for the first time that the negative or positive effect of Arnica montana 6 cH on IVEP depends on the culture condition (i.e., absence or presence of HS during IVM). On the other hand, ethanol showed beneficial and consistent results on IVEP regardless of exposure to HS.
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Affiliation(s)
- M A S Novaes
- Laboratório de Reprodução Animal, Departamento de Zootecnia, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Viçosa, MG, Brazil
| | - L F Lima
- Laboratory of Manipulation of Oocytes and Preantral Follicles, Faculty of Veterinary, State University of Ceará, Fortaleza, CE, Brazil
| | - N A R Sá
- Laboratory of Manipulation of Oocytes and Preantral Follicles, Faculty of Veterinary, State University of Ceará, Fortaleza, CE, Brazil
| | - A C A Ferreira
- Laboratory of Manipulation of Oocytes and Preantral Follicles, Faculty of Veterinary, State University of Ceará, Fortaleza, CE, Brazil
| | - V M Paes
- Laboratory of Manipulation of Oocytes and Preantral Follicles, Faculty of Veterinary, State University of Ceará, Fortaleza, CE, Brazil
| | - J F Souza
- Laboratory Brio Genetics and Biotechnology Ltd., Araguaína, Tocantins, Brazil
| | - B G Alves
- Postgraduate Program in Animal Bioscience, Federal University of Goiás, Jataí, GO, Brazil
| | - N V Gramosa
- Department of Organic and Inorganic Chemistry, Federal University of Ceara, Fortaleza, CE, Brazil
| | - C A A Torres
- Laboratório de Reprodução Animal, Departamento de Zootecnia, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Viçosa, MG, Brazil
| | - B Pukazhenthi
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Front Royal, VA, USA
| | - E L Gastal
- Animal Science, School of Agricultural Sciences, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, IL, USA
| | - J R Figueiredo
- Laboratory of Manipulation of Oocytes and Preantral Follicles, Faculty of Veterinary, State University of Ceará, Fortaleza, CE, Brazil.
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Pinto SAG, Nagai MYO, Alvares-Saraiva A, Peres GB, Waisse S, Perez EC, Bonamin LV. Silicea terra and Zincum metallicum Modulate the Activity of Macrophages Challenged with BCG In Vitro. HOMEOPATHY 2020; 110:52-61. [PMID: 33348418 DOI: 10.1055/s-0040-1716367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The homeopathic medicines Silicea terra (Sil) and Zincum metallicum (Zinc) modulate macrophage activity and were assessed in an experimental study in-vitro for their effects on macrophage-BCG (Bacillus Calmette-Guérin) interaction. METHODS RAW 264.7 macrophages were infected with BCG, treated with different potencies of Sil and Zinc (6cH, 30cH and 200cH) or vehicle, and assessed 24 and 48 h later for bacilli internalization, hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and cytokine production, and lysosomal activity. RESULTS Treatment with vehicle was associated with non-specific inhibition of H2O2 production to the levels exhibited by uninfected macrophages. Sil 200cH induced significant reduction of H2O2 production (p < 0.001) compared with the vehicle and all other treatments, as well as higher lysosomal activity (p ≤ 0.001) and increased IL-10 production (p ≤ 0.05). Such effects were considered specific for this remedy and potency. The number of internalized bacilli was inversely proportional to Zinc potencies, with statistically significant interaction between dilution and treatment (p = 0.003). Such linear-like behavior was not observed for Sil dilutions: peak internalization occurred with the 30cH dilution, accompanied by cellular degeneration, and IL-6 and IL-10 increased (p ≤ 0.05) only in the cells treated with Sil 6cH. CONCLUSION Sil and Zinc presented different patterns of potency-dependent effect on macrophage activity. Bacterial digestion and a balanced IL-6/IL-10 production were related to Sil 6cH, though reduced oxidative stress with increased lysosomal activity was related to Sil 200cH. Degenerative effects were exclusively related to Sil 30cH, and potency-dependent phagocytosis was related only to Zinc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Augusta G Pinto
- Research Center, Graduation Program in Environmental and Experimental Pathology, Universidade Paulista-UNIP, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Mirian Yaeko O Nagai
- Research Center, Graduation Program in Environmental and Experimental Pathology, Universidade Paulista-UNIP, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Anuska Alvares-Saraiva
- Research Center, Graduation Program in Environmental and Experimental Pathology, Universidade Paulista-UNIP, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Giovani B Peres
- Research Center, Graduation Program in Environmental and Experimental Pathology, Universidade Paulista-UNIP, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Silvia Waisse
- Pontificia Universidade Católica de São Paulo, Graduation Program in History of Science, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Elizabeth C Perez
- Research Center, Graduation Program in Environmental and Experimental Pathology, Universidade Paulista-UNIP, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Leoni Villano Bonamin
- Research Center, Graduation Program in Environmental and Experimental Pathology, Universidade Paulista-UNIP, São Paulo, Brazil
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Dos Santos AP, Cardoso TN, Waisse S, Bonamin LV. Homeopathy in Experimental Cancer Models: A Systematic Review. HOMEOPATHY 2020; 110:76-85. [PMID: 33348419 DOI: 10.1055/s-0040-1716369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Complementary and alternative medicine, including homeopathy, is widely used to improve well-being among cancer patients and reduce adverse effects of conventional treatment. In contrast, there are few studies on the use of homeopathic medicines to treat the disease itself. Yet, evidence of possible effectiveness of homeopathic high dilutions in experimental cancer models has been published during the past 20 years. AIM The aim of the study was to perform a systematic review of fundamental research studies on homeopathic high dilutions in cancer. METHODS Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guideline, we conducted a literature search in the database PubMed for original publications, from 2000 to 2018 and in English, on in vitro and in vivo experimental cancer models testing homeopathic high dilutions. RESULTS Twenty-three articles met the inclusion criteria-14 in vitro, eight in vivo, and one in vitro plus in vivo experimental models. Most studies were from India. Research prominently focused on cytotoxic effects involving apoptotic mechanisms. Intrinsic aspects of homeopathy should be considered in experimental designs to emphasize the specificity of such effects. CONCLUSION Fundamental research of homeopathy in cancer is still at an early stage and has mainly been performed by a few groups of investigators. The results point to an interference of well-selected homeopathic medicines with cell cycle and apoptotic mechanisms in cancer cells. However, these findings still need independent reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreza Pereira Dos Santos
- Research Center, Universidade Paulista, UNIP, Graduate Program in Environmental and Experimental Pathology, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Thayná Neves Cardoso
- Research Center, Universidade Paulista, UNIP, Graduate Program in Environmental and Experimental Pathology, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Silvia Waisse
- Pontifical Catholic University of São Paulo, PUC-SP, Graduate Program in History of Science, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Leoni Villano Bonamin
- Research Center, Universidade Paulista, UNIP, Graduate Program in Environmental and Experimental Pathology, São Paulo, Brazil
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Talwar S, Sood S, Kumar J, Chauhan R, Sharma M, Tuli HS. Ayurveda and Allopathic Therapeutic Strategies in Coronavirus Pandemic Treatment 2020. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 6:354-363. [PMID: 33106765 PMCID: PMC7577842 DOI: 10.1007/s40495-020-00245-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Purpose of Review In the last month of 2019, i.e., December, COVID-19 hit Wuhan city in China. Since then, it has infected more than 210 countries and nearly about 33.4 million people with one million deaths globally. It is a viral disease with flu-like symptoms; hence, prevention and management is the best option to be adopted for its cure. Recent Findings Many healthcare systems, scientists, and researchers are fighting for the cure of this pandemic. Ayurvedic and allopathic treatments have been studied extensively and approached for the cure of COVID-19. In addition to ayurvedic treatments, the Ministry of Ayush, India, has also recommended many remedies to boost up immunity. Allopathic studies involved several antiviral drugs which were used in different combinations for the treatment of COVID-19. Summary Comparative analysis of Ayurveda and allopathic treatment strategies were carried out in the present study. Depending upon the patient’s conditions and symptoms, Ayurveda is useful for the treatment of COVID-19. Allopathic treatments inhibit viral infection by targeting majorly endocytosis, and angiotensin-converting enzyme (Ace) receptor signaling. In this article, we summarize different ayurvedic and allopathic medicines and treatment strategies which have been used for the treatment of COVID-19, a global pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shivangi Talwar
- Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University, Noida, Noida, India
| | - Shivani Sood
- Department of Biotechnology, Mukand Lal National College, Yamuna Nagar, India
| | - Jayant Kumar
- Department of Biotechnology, Mukand Lal National College, Yamuna Nagar, India
| | - Ritu Chauhan
- Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University, Noida, Noida, India
| | - Mamta Sharma
- School of Law, Justice and Governance, Gautam Buddha University, Greater Noida, India
| | - Hardeep Singh Tuli
- Department of Biotechnology, Maharishi Markandeshwar (Deemed to be University), Mullana, Ambala, 133207 India
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Dey SK, Dey JK, Sihag H. Current Insights into the Novel Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) and Its Homoeopathic Management. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020. [DOI: 10.1055/s-0040-1715636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
AbstractSevere acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is a new coronavirus strain that has not been ever found in humans before December 2019. Both the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) case fatality rate and deaths per million population in the top 10 affected countries are increasing a lot due to ever-increasing number of new cases among countries facilitated by increased affinity of SARS-CoV-2 to bind human angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptors. While human-to-human transmission of SARS-CoV-2 happens through close contact with an infected individual who spreads respiratory droplets through air or other means, its diagnosis relies mainly on detection of nucleic acid. Repurposing drugs such as dexamethasone, remdesivir, favipiravir and TMPRSS2 (trans membrane protease, serine 2) protease inhibitors have been shown to be effective for the treatment of COVID-19 with albeit requirement of further studies to conclude their complete effectiveness. Personal protective measures should be followed to prevent SARS-CoV-2 infection. Additionally, hundreds of clinical trials of vaccines against SARS-CoV-2 are undergoing, while plasma therapy from the COVID-19 survivors is also being tried to treat the severely affected patients. In addition to these aforementioned modern medicines and therapeutic approaches, homoeopathy also holds promising anti-viral effect as evident from its success against flu and other epidemics, historically. Therefore, present article provides a glimpse of advancements made in the area of homoeopathic ways of treating COVID-19 by summarising the recent homoeopathic clinical, research trials and future scopes of homoeopathy to combat the pandemic. After critical review of most of the ongoing or recently completed homoeopathic treatment efforts against SARS-CoV-2, it was identified that Bryonia alba, Arsenicum album and Gelsemium sempervirens are working best among homoeopathic medicines till now. These studies are also suggesting an increased application of these remedies to treat the current pandemic worldwide; therefore, more such studies are warranted. Those further research will pave the way to understand the mechanism of each of these homoeopathic drugs to cure COVID-19 facilitated by optimising their doses, effects and find the best among these multiple options in homoeopathic medicines for plausible mono- or combination therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanjay Kumar Dey
- Center for Advanced Biotechnology and Medicine, Rutgers University, Piscataway 08854, NJ, USA
| | - Joy Kumar Dey
- Documentation and Publication Section, Central Council for Research in Homoeopathy, Ministry of AYUSH, Govt. of India, New Delhi 110058, Delhi, India
| | - Hitaishi Sihag
- Department of Biochemistry, Central University of Rajasthan, Ajmer 305817, Rajasthan, India
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Abstract
The contentious debate between homeopathy and orthodox medicine has been due to the fact that homeopathy is founded on a heuristic philosophy that is not justified by contemporary scientific evidence. In this context, however, two pillars of the method, that is, serial dilution and succussion, are poorly understood in orthodox pharmacology. The experimental data collected in the last 10 years, by means of electronic microscopy, electron diffraction and DNA arrays investigations, are consistent with the presence of nanoparticles (nanoassociates) in homeopathic medicines and seem to provide a coherent view of the essence of the homeopathy discipline, superseding all previous speculative interpretations. An acceptance of this new evidence is here suggested to remove, in principle, the barrier that separates the conventional and homeopathic therapeutic methods, and to offer new and important perspectives on future health care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Dei
- Department of Chemistry, UdR INSTM, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
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Chaudhary A, Khurana A. A review on the role of Homoeopathy in epidemics with some reflections on COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2). INDIAN JOURNAL OF RESEARCH IN HOMOEOPATHY 2020. [DOI: 10.4103/ijrh.ijrh_34_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
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Courtens F, Demangeat JL, Benabdallah M. Could the Olfactory System Be a Target for Homeopathic Remedies as Nanomedicines? J Altern Complement Med 2018; 24:1032-1038. [PMID: 29889551 PMCID: PMC6247980 DOI: 10.1089/acm.2018.0039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Homeopathic remedies (HRs) contain odorant molecules such as flavonoids or terpenes and can lose their efficiency in presence of some competitive odors. Such similarities, along with extreme sensitivity of the olfactory system, widespread presence of olfactory receptors over all organic tissues (where they have metabolic roles besides perception of odors), and potential direct access to the brain through olfactory nerves (ONs) and trigeminal nerves, may suggest the olfactory system as target for HRs. Recent works highlighted that HRs exist in a dual form, that is, a still molecular form at low dilution and a nanoparticulate form at high dilution, and that remnants of source remedy persist in extremely high dilutions. From the literature, both odorants and nanoparticles (NPs) can enter the body through inhalation, digestive absorption, or through the skin, especially, NPs or viruses can directly reach the brain through axons of nerves. Assuming that HRs are recognized by olfactory receptors, their information could be transmitted to numerous tissues through receptor-ligand interaction, or to the brain by either activating the axon potential of ONs and trigeminal nerves or, in their nanoparticulate form, by translocating through axons of these nerves. Moreover, the nanoparticulate form may activate the immune system at multiple levels, induce systemic various biological responses through the pituitary axis and inflammation factors, or modulate gene expression at the cellular level. As immunity, inflammation, pituitary axis, and olfactory system are closely linked together, their permanent interaction triggered by olfactory receptors may thus ensure homeostasis.
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Loeb M, Russell ML, Neupane B, Thanabalan V, Singh P, Newton J, Pullenayegum E. A randomized, blinded, placebo-controlled trial comparing antibody responses to homeopathic and conventional vaccines in university students. Vaccine 2018; 36:7423-7429. [PMID: 30352746 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2018.08.082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2018] [Revised: 08/30/2018] [Accepted: 08/31/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Homeopathic vaccines are licensed in many countries but scientific data to support their use are sparse. The goal of this study was to compare the antibody response of homeopathic and conventional vaccines and placebo in young adults. We hypothesized that there would be no significant difference between homeopathic vaccines and placebo, while there would be a significant increase in antibodies in those received conventional vaccines. METHODS A randomized blinded placebo-controlled trial was conducted where 150 university students who had received childhood vaccinations were assigned to diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus, mumps, measles homeopathic vaccine, placebo, or conventional diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus (Tdap) and mumps, measles, rubella (MMR) vaccines. The primary outcome was a ≥ two-fold increase in antibodies from baseline following vaccination as measured by ELISA. Participants, investigators, study coordinator, data blood drawers, laboratory technician, and data analyst were blinded. RESULTS None of the participants in either the homeopathic vaccine or the placebo group showed a ≥ two-fold response to any of the antigens. In contrast, of those vaccinated with Tdap, 68% (33/48) had a ≥ two-fold response to diphtheria, 83% (40/48) to pertussis toxoid, 88% (42/48) to tetanus, and 35% (17/48) of those vaccinated with MMR had a response to measles or mumps antigens (p < 0.001 for each comparison of conventional vaccine to homeopathic vaccine or to placebo). There was a significant increase in geometric mean titres of antibody from baseline for conventional vaccine antigens (p < 0.001 for each), but none for the response to homeopathic antigens or placebo. CONCLUSIONS Homeopathic vaccines do not evoke antibody responses and produce a response that is similar to placebo. In contrast, conventional vaccines provide a robust antibody response in the majority of those vaccinated. TRIAL REGISTRY NCT 02825368.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark Loeb
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, McMaster University, 1280 Main St West, MDCL 3208 Hamilton, Ontario L8S 4K1, Canada; Health Research Methodology, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, 1280 Main St West, MDCL 3208 Hamilton, Ontario L8S 4K1, Canada; Institute for Infectious Diseases Research, McMaster University, 1280 Main St West, MDCL 3208 Hamilton, Ontario L8S 4K1, Canada.
| | - Margaret L Russell
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, 3280 Hospital Drive W Calgary, Alberta T2N4Z6, Canada
| | - Binod Neupane
- Health Research Methodology, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, 1280 Main St West, MDCL 3208 Hamilton, Ontario L8S 4K1, Canada
| | - Vitheya Thanabalan
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, McMaster University, 1280 Main St West, MDCL 3208 Hamilton, Ontario L8S 4K1, Canada
| | - Pardeep Singh
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, McMaster University, 1280 Main St West, MDCL 3208 Hamilton, Ontario L8S 4K1, Canada
| | - Jennifer Newton
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, McMaster University, 1280 Main St West, MDCL 3208 Hamilton, Ontario L8S 4K1, Canada
| | - Eleanor Pullenayegum
- Hospital for Sick Childrene, 555 University Avenue Toronto, Ontario M5G 1X8, Canada
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Bellavite P, Marzotto M, Bonafini C. Arnica montana experimental studies: confounders and biases? JOURNAL OF INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE-JIM 2018. [PMID: 29526239 DOI: 10.1016/j.joim.2018.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Arnica montana is a popular traditional remedy widely used in complementary and alternative medicine, in part for its wound-healing properties. The authors recently showed that this plant extract and several of its homeopathic dilutions are able to modify the expression of a series of genes involved in inflammation and connective tissue regeneration. Their studies opened a debate, including criticisms to the "errors" in the methods used and the "confounders and biases". Here the authors show that the criticisms raised on methodology and statistics are not consistent and cannot be considered pertinent. The present comment also updates and reviews information concerning the action of A. montana dilutions in human macrophage cells while summarizing the major experimental advances reported on this interesting medicinal plant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Bellavite
- Department of Medicine, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie 8, Verona 37134, Italy
| | - Marta Marzotto
- Department of Medicine, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie 8, Verona 37134, Italy.
| | - Clara Bonafini
- Department of Medicine, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie 8, Verona 37134, Italy
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In Vitro Wound Healing Potential of Stem Extract of Alternanthera sessilis. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2018; 2018:3142073. [PMID: 29670658 PMCID: PMC5836361 DOI: 10.1155/2018/3142073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2017] [Revised: 11/21/2017] [Accepted: 12/10/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Impaired wound healing is one of the serious problems among the diabetic patients. Currently, available treatments are limited due to side effects and cost effectiveness. In line with that, we attempted to use a natural source to study its potential towards the wound healing process. Therefore, Alternanthera sessilis (A. sessilis), an edible and medicinal plant, was chosen as the target sample for the study. During this investigation, the wound closure properties using stem extract of A. sessilis were analyzed. Accordingly, we analyzed the extract on free radical scavenging capacity and the cell migration of two most prominent cell types on the skin, human dermal fibroblast (NHDF), keratinocytes (HaCaT), and diabetic human dermal fibroblast (HDF-D) to mimic the wound healing in diabetic patients. The bioactive compounds were identified using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). We discovered that the analysis exhibited a remarkable antioxidant, proliferative, and migratory rate in NHDF, HaCaT, and HDF-D in dose-dependent manner, which supports wound healing process, due to the presence of wound healing associated phytocompounds such as Hexadecanoic acid. This study suggested that the stem extract of A. sessilis might be a potential therapeutic agent for skin wound healing, supporting its traditional medicinal uses.
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Bellavite P, Bonafini C, Marzotto M. Experimental neuropharmacology of Gelsemium sempervirens: Recent advances and debated issues. J Ayurveda Integr Med 2018; 9:69-74. [PMID: 29428604 PMCID: PMC5884012 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaim.2017.01.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2016] [Revised: 01/19/2017] [Accepted: 01/27/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Gelsemium sempervirens L. (Gelsemium) is traditionally used for its anxiolytic-like properties and its action mechanism in laboratory models are under scrutiny. Evidence from rodent models was reported suggesting the existence of a high sensitivity of central nervous system to anxiolytic power of Gelsemium extracts and Homeopathic dilutions. In vitro investigation of extremely low doses of this plant extract showed a modulation of gene expression of human neurocytes. These studies were criticized in a few commentaries, generated a debate in literature and were followed by further experimental studies from various laboratories. Toxic doses of Gelsemium cause neurological signs characterized by marked weakness and convulsions, while ultra-low doses or high Homeopathic dilutions counteract seizures induced by lithium and pilocarpine, decrease anxiety after stress and increases the anti-stress allopregnanolone hormone, through glycine receptors. Low (non-Homeopathic) doses of this plant or its alkaloids decrease neuropathic pain and c-Fos expression in mice brain and oxidative stress. Due to the complexity of the matter, several aspects deserve interpretation and the main controversial topics, with a focus on the issues of high dilution pharmacology, are discussed and clarified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Bellavite
- Department of Medicine, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie, 8, 37134 Verona, Italy.
| | - Clara Bonafini
- Department of Medicine, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie, 8, 37134 Verona, Italy
| | - Marta Marzotto
- Department of Medicine, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie, 8, 37134 Verona, Italy
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Mondal J, Shah R, Khuda-Bukhsh AR. Therapeutic potential of HIV nosode 30c as evaluated in A549 lung cancer cells. HOMEOPATHY 2018; 106:203-213. [DOI: 10.1016/j.homp.2017.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2017] [Revised: 09/11/2017] [Accepted: 09/11/2017] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Objectives: To examine if HIV nosode in 30c dilution (HIV 30c) has therapeutic potential against lung cancer cells (A549) as compared to WRL-68 normal cells and to elucidate its possible molecular mechanism of action on DNA replication and apoptosis.Methods: Effects of HIV 30c were thoroughly tested for its possible anticancer potential on A549 cells (lung cancer); WRL-68 normal liver cells served as control. Three doses, one at LD50 and two below LD-50, were used. Proliferation, migration and senescence assays were made and generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) studied by routine techniques. The ability of HIV 30c to induce apoptosis in A549 cells and its possible signalling pathway were determined using immunoblots of relevant signal proteins and confocal microscopy, including studies on telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) and topoisomerase II (Top II) activities, intimately associated with cell division and DNA replication.Results: HIV 30c prevented cancer cell proliferation and migration, induced pre-mature senescence, enhanced pro-apoptotic signal proteins like p53, bax, cytochrome c, caspase-3 and inhibited anti-apoptotic signal proteins Bcl2, TERT and Top II, changed mitochondrial membrane potential and caused externalization of phosphatidyl serine. Thus, it induced apoptosis as also evidenced from increase in cells with distorted membrane morphology, nuclear condensation, DNA fragmentation, and ROS, typical of apoptosis in progress.Conclusion: HIV 30c nosode has therapeutic potential for inducing cytotoxic effects on A549 cells as manifested by changes in nuclear condensation, DNA fragmentation, ROS generation and MMP, and for its inhibitory action on cell proliferation, cell migration, expression of telomerase reverse transcriptase and Top II genes, and increasing expression of pro-apoptotic genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesmin Mondal
- Cytogenetics and Molecular Biology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, University of Kalyani, Kalyani 741235, India
| | - Rajesh Shah
- Life Force, 411 Krushal Commercial Complex, G.M. Road, Chembur, Mumbai 400 089, India
| | - Anisur Rahman Khuda-Bukhsh
- Cytogenetics and Molecular Biology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, University of Kalyani, Kalyani 741235, India
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Differential effects of Zincum metallicum on cell models. HOMEOPATHY 2018; 106:171-180. [DOI: 10.1016/j.homp.2017.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2016] [Revised: 02/09/2017] [Accepted: 02/15/2017] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: Zinc is an essential trace element necessary for life. Traditional and complementary medicines use zinc-based formulations to treat different classes of diseases. Basic research on homeopathic preparations of zinc are rare and there are a few published clinical cases describing its effects on patients. The use of cell-based models in drug screening is a reliable source of evidence.Methods: We sought to investigate experimental end-points using cell-based models to determine the effects of dilutions of Zincum metallicum prepared according to the Brazilian Homeopathic Pharmacopoeia. Murine RAW 264.7 macrophages and melanoma B16-F10 cell lines were cultured according to standard procedures. Cells were treated with either 5c, 6c or 30c Zincum metallicum and control cells with its respective vehicle (5c, 6c, or 30c Lactose). Macrophage activation by CD54 immunolabeling and intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) using DCFH-DA (2,7-dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate) were detected by flow cytometry. Phagocytic capacity (endocytic index) was quantified by light microscopy. Features of melanoma cells were analyzed by colorimetric assays to determine melanin content and cell proliferation rate. All obtained data were submitted to normality test followed by statistical analysis.Results: Zincum metallicum 6c shifted high ROS-producing macrophages to a low ROS-producing phenotype. Macrophage CD54 expression was increased by Zincum metallicum 5c. No changes in endocytic index were observed. Melanoma cells were not affected by any treatment we tested.Conclusions: Differing responses and non-linearity were found on macrophages challenged with Zincum metallicum at high dilutions. No changes in melanoma cells were observed. Customised assays using target cells can be useful to investigate high-dilution effects. Other cell types and conditions should be explored.
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Bonamin LV, Waisse S. Explanatory models for homeopathy: from the vital force to the current paradigm. HOMEOPATHY 2017; 105:280-285. [DOI: 10.1016/j.homp.2016.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2015] [Revised: 02/20/2016] [Accepted: 02/29/2016] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Facing claims for and against the scientific status of homeopathy, one is entitled to ask: is there a scientific model for homeopathy? In this study we reconstructed the model put forward by Hahnemann. The results showed that it was essentially based on the assumption of a ‘vital force’ exclusive to living beings. While the vital force was a basic element of 18th-century science, the existence of such a sui generis force of nature was refuted with the formulation of the law of the conservation of energy by mid-19th century. As a function of that fact for homeopathic theory, we discuss the history of the rise and demise of the theory of the vital force from the last quarter of the 18th century to 1830. Finally, we call the attention to the paradigm shift biology underwent starting at the end of the 19th century as the framework for contemporary views on the functioning of living beings and consequently, of the effects of pharmacological agents on them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leoni Villano Bonamin
- Research Center of Paulista University, Graduation Program of Environmental and Experimental Pathology, Rua Dr Bacelar 1212, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Silvia Waisse
- Center Simão Mathias of Studies in History of Science (CESIMA), Pontifical Catholic University of São Paulo, Rua Caio Prado 102, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
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Dei A. Hormesis and Homeopathy: Toward a New Self-Consciousness. Dose Response 2017; 15:1559325817744451. [PMID: 29225559 PMCID: PMC5714091 DOI: 10.1177/1559325817744451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2017] [Accepted: 10/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Dei
- Department of Chemistry, INSTM Research Unit, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
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Falkowski-Temporini GJ, Lopes CR, Massini PF, Brustolin CF, Ferraz FN, Sandri PF, Hernandes L, Aleixo DL, Barion TF, Esper LG, de Araújo SM. Increased of the hepatocytes and splenocytes apoptosis accompanies clinical improvement and higher survival in mice infected with Trypanosoma cruzi and treated with highly diluted Lycopodium clavatum. Microb Pathog 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2017.06.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
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Phosphorus protects cardiac tissue by modifying the immune response in rats infected by Trypanosoma cruzi. Cytokine 2017; 102:102-106. [PMID: 28757361 DOI: 10.1016/j.cyto.2017.07.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2017] [Revised: 07/21/2017] [Accepted: 07/21/2017] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
AIM This study evaluates and correlates the number of myocarditis focuses and production of cytokines in Rattus norvegicus (Wistar lineage), experimentally infected with T. Cruzi and treated with Phosphorus. METHODS In two blind, controlled and randomized trials, 53 45-day-old, male animals were allocated into groups Control (n=24): Control group infected and treated with 7% hydroalcoholic solution, the preparation vehicle of the test medication; and Phosphorus (n=24 on days 0, 5, 10 and 24 after infection): group infected and treated with Phosphorus 13cH, diluted 10-26 and dynamized (test medication). The animals were inoculated intraperitoneally with 5×106 blood trypomastigotes of T. cruzi-Y strain. The medication was administered overnight (16 consecutive hours), diluted in water (1mL/100mL) in amber water bottles. The animals were treated 2days before and 2, 4, and 6days after infection. Enumeration of inflammatory foci in cardiac tissue (Hematoxylin-Eosin) and dosage of cytokines TNF-α and IFN-γ in the serum were performed on days 0, 5, 10 and 24 after infection, using three animals/group. Mann-Whitney, Friedman ANOVA, Spearman correlation (p<0.05), and Statistica Single User Software version 13.2 were used for data analysis. RESULTS The animals treated with Phosphorus 13cH had high concentration of INF-ɣ on the 5th day of infection with significant decrease on the 10th and 24th days (p<0.05), and high concentration of TNF-α on the 5th and 10th days of infection with decrease on the 24th day (p<0.05). The treatment with Phosphorus caused a significant increase of INF-ɣ and TNF-α on the 5th day of infection compared with the Control (p<0.05), with reestablishment on the 24th day, as well as in the Control group. The group treated with Phosphorus had 52.5% less number of myocarditis focuses in heart than Control group (p<0.05) on the 10th day of infection. The significant increase in cytokines on the5th day of infection in the Phosphorus group is related to a significant decrease in the number of inflammatory foci in cardiac tissue on the 10th day of infection in this group. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION Treatment with Phosphorus 13cH promotes beneficial effects in T. cruzi infection in Wistar rats by modulating the secretion of IFN-γ and TNF-α with decreased inflammation in cardiac tissue. These results reinforce the importance of considering the use of homeopathy for establishing new therapeutic approaches in the management of patients with Chagas disease.
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de Santana FR, Dalboni LC, Nascimento KF, Konno FT, Alvares-Saraiva AM, Correia MS, Bomfim MDC, Casarin RC, Perez EC, Lallo MA, Peres GB, Laurenti MD, Benites NR, Buchi DF, Bonamin LV. High dilutions of antimony modulate cytokines production and macrophage – Leishmania (L.) amazonensis interaction in vitro. Cytokine 2017; 92:33-47. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cyto.2017.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2016] [Revised: 01/02/2017] [Accepted: 01/04/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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Sorrentino L, Piraneo S, Riggio E, Basilicò S, Sartani A, Bossi D, Corsi F. Is there a role for homeopathy in breast cancer surgery? A first randomized clinical trial on treatment with Arnica montana to reduce post-operative seroma and bleeding in patients undergoing total mastectomy. JOURNAL OF COMPLEMENTARY MEDICINE RESEARCH 2017; 6:1-8. [PMID: 28163953 PMCID: PMC5289077 DOI: 10.5455/jice.20161229055245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2016] [Accepted: 12/04/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
AIM This study aimed to evaluate the benefits of Arnica montana on post-operative blood loss and seroma production in women undergoing unilateral total mastectomy by administering Arnica Montana 1000 Korsakovian dilution (1000 K). MATERIALS AND METHODS From 2012 to 2014, 53 women were randomly assigned to A. montana or placebo and were followed up for 5 days. The main end point was the reduction in blood and serum volumes collected in drainages. Secondary end points were duration of drainage, a self-evaluation of pain, and the presence of bruising or hematomas. RESULTS The per-protocol analysis revealed a lower mean volume of blood and serum collected in drainages with A. montana (-94.40 ml; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 22.48-211.28; P = 0.11). A regression model including treatment, volume collected in the drainage on the day of surgery, and patient weight showed a statistically significant difference in favor of A. montana (-106.28 ml; 95% CI: 9.45-203.11; P = 0.03). Volumes collected on the day of surgery and the following days were significantly lower with A. montana at days 2 (P = 0.033) and 3 (P = 0.0223). Secondary end points have not revealed significant differences. CONCLUSIONS A. montana 1000 K could reduce post-operative blood and seroma collection in women undergoing unilateral total mastectomy. Larger studies are needed with different dilutions of A. montana to further validate these data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Sorrentino
- Surgery Division, ASST Fatebenefratelli Sacco, Luigi Sacco Hospital, Milan, Italy
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences “Luigi Sacco”, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Salvatore Piraneo
- Surgery Division, ASST Fatebenefratelli Sacco, Luigi Sacco Hospital, Milan, Italy
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences “Luigi Sacco”, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Eliana Riggio
- Surgery Division, ASST Fatebenefratelli Sacco, Luigi Sacco Hospital, Milan, Italy
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences “Luigi Sacco”, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Silvia Basilicò
- Surgery Division, Niguarda Ca’ Granda Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Alessandra Sartani
- Surgery Division, ASST Fatebenefratelli Sacco, Luigi Sacco Hospital, Milan, Italy
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences “Luigi Sacco”, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Daniela Bossi
- Department of Surgery, Breast Unit, IRCCS S. Maugeri Foundation Hospital, Pavia, Italy
| | - Fabio Corsi
- Surgery Division, ASST Fatebenefratelli Sacco, Luigi Sacco Hospital, Milan, Italy
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences “Luigi Sacco”, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- Department of Surgery, Breast Unit, IRCCS S. Maugeri Foundation Hospital, Pavia, Italy
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Falkowski-Temporini GJ, Lopes CR, Massini PF, Brustolin CF, Sandri PF, Ferreira ÉC, Aleixo DL, Pala NR, de Araújo SM. Predominance of Th1 response, increase of megakaryocytes and Kupffer cells are related to survival in Trypanosoma cruzi infected mice treated with Lycopodium clavatum. Cytokine 2016; 88:57-61. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cyto.2016.08.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2016] [Revised: 08/13/2016] [Accepted: 08/18/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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Marzotto M, Bonafini C, Olioso D, Baruzzi A, Bettinetti L, Di Leva F, Galbiati E, Bellavite P. Arnica montana Stimulates Extracellular Matrix Gene Expression in a Macrophage Cell Line Differentiated to Wound-Healing Phenotype. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0166340. [PMID: 27832158 PMCID: PMC5104438 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0166340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2016] [Accepted: 08/26/2016] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Arnica montana (Arnica m.) is used for its purported anti-inflammatory and tissue healing actions after trauma, bruises, or tissue injuries, but its cellular and molecular mechanisms are largely unknown. This work tested Arnica m. effects on gene expression using an in vitro model of macrophages polarized towards a "wound-healing" phenotype. The monocyte-macrophage human THP-1 cell line was cultured and differentiated with phorbol-myristate acetate and Interleukin-4, then exposed for 24h to Arnica m. centesimal (c) dilutions 2c, 3c, 5c, 9c, 15c or Control. Total RNA was isolated and cDNA libraries were sequenced with a NextSeq500 sequencer. Genes with significantly positive (up-regulated) or negative (down-regulated) fold changes were defined as differentially expressed genes (DEGs). A total of 20 DEGs were identified in Arnica m. 2c treated cells. Of these, 7 genes were up-regulated and 13 were down-regulated. The most significantly up-regulated function concerned 4 genes with a conserved site of epidermal growth factor-like region (p<0.001) and three genes of proteinaceous extracellular matrix, including heparin sulphate proteoglycan 2 (HSPG2), fibrillin 2 (FBN2), and fibronectin (FN1) (p<0.01). Protein assay confirmed a statistically significant increase of fibronectin production (p<0.05). The down-regulated transcripts derived from mitochondrial genes coding for some components of electron transport chain. The same groups of genes were also regulated by increasing dilutions of Arnica m. (3c, 5c, 9c, 15c), although with a lower effect size. We further tested the healing potential of Arnica m. 2c in a scratch model of wound closure based on the motility of bone marrow-derived macrophages and found evidence of an accelerating effect on cell migration in this system. The results of this work, taken together, provide new insights into the action of Arnica m. in tissue healing and repair, and identify extracellular matrix regulation by macrophages as a therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Marzotto
- Department of Medicine, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie 8, 37134, Verona, Italy
| | - Clara Bonafini
- Department of Medicine, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie 8, 37134, Verona, Italy
| | - Debora Olioso
- Department of Medicine, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie 8, 37134, Verona, Italy
| | - Anna Baruzzi
- Department of Medicine, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie 8, 37134, Verona, Italy
| | - Laura Bettinetti
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie 15, 37134, Verona, Italy
| | - Francesca Di Leva
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie 15, 37134, Verona, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Galbiati
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioscience, University of Milano-Bicocca, Piazza della Scienza 3, 20126, Milano, Italy
| | - Paolo Bellavite
- Department of Medicine, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie 8, 37134, Verona, Italy
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Olioso D, Marzotto M, Bonafini C, Brizzi M, Bellavite P. Response to Commentary: Arnica montana Effects on Gene Expression in a Human Macrophage Cell Line. Evaluation by Quantitative Real-Time PCR. Front Immunol 2016; 7:320. [PMID: 27667990 PMCID: PMC5016530 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2016.00320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2016] [Accepted: 08/09/2016] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Debora Olioso
- Department of Medicine, University of Verona , Verona , Italy
| | - Marta Marzotto
- Department of Medicine, University of Verona , Verona , Italy
| | - Clara Bonafini
- Department of Medicine, University of Verona , Verona , Italy
| | - Maurizio Brizzi
- Department of Statistical Sciences, University of Bologna , Bologna , Italy
| | - Paolo Bellavite
- Department of Medicine, University of Verona , Verona , Italy
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Guedes JRP, Carrasco S, Ferreira CM, Bonamin LV, Goldenstein-Schainberg C, Martins V, Capelozzi VL. A morphometric and molecular study of the apoptosis observed on tadpoles' tail explants under the exposition of triiodothyronine in different homeopathic dilutions. HOMEOPATHY 2016; 105:250-256. [PMID: 27473546 DOI: 10.1016/j.homp.2016.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2015] [Revised: 03/08/2016] [Accepted: 04/05/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND As a therapeutic system, homeopathy is supported by: i) similitude and experimentation in healthy individuals, ii) potentization. A challenge for researchers consists in looking for signals in water (or vehicle) to explain the storage of information in extremely high dilutions and the transfer of such information to the living systems. Anuran amphibian metamorphosis is controlled by thyroid hormones (TH), including the resorption of the tadpole tail. Apoptosis is a genetically regulated form of cell death that can be triggered by various extracellular and intracellular stimuli resulting in coordinated activation of a family of cysteine proteases called caspases. METHODS This study was blind and randomized. It performed in three stages: I) the identification of the most effective T3 homeopathic dilution to induce apoptotic reactions in Rana (Lithobates) catesbeianus tadpole tail explants stimulated by T3 in substantial, II) study of different controls and III) detection in explants under the action of the most effective dilution of T3, as established in Stage I. RESULTS There was no statistically significant difference between tail macroscopic dimensions between the groups. T3 10cH decreased the expression of caspase 3/7 mRNA, in explants treated with T3 20 nM. CONCLUSION The present experiment is in agreement with the hypothesis that T3, at a 10cH homeopathic dilution, changes the metamorphosis molecular network.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Roberto Pereira Guedes
- Laboratory of Histomorphometry and Lung Genomics, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, University of São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
| | - Solange Carrasco
- Discipline of Rheumatology, School of Medicine, Clinics Hospital, University of São Paulo, Brazil.
| | - Cláudia M Ferreira
- Agricultural Department of São Paulo State, Aquaculture Research Center, Fisheries Institute, Brazil.
| | - Leoni V Bonamin
- Research and Technology Center, University Paulista, Brazil; Laboratory of Pathology, University of Santo Amaro, Brazil.
| | | | - Vanessa Martins
- Laboratory of Histomorphometry and Lung Genomics, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, University of São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
| | - Vera L Capelozzi
- Laboratory of Histomorphometry and Lung Genomics, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, University of São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
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Mondal J, Samadder A, Khuda-Bukhsh AR. Psorinum 6 × triggers apoptosis signals in human lung cancer cells. JOURNAL OF INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE-JIM 2016; 14:143-53. [PMID: 26988436 DOI: 10.1016/s2095-4964(16)60230-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To provide in vitro evidence of Psorinum treatment against cancer cells in a controlled study. METHODS Effects of homeopathic Psorinum 6× on cell viability were initially determined in several cancer cell lines, including A549, HepG2 and MCF-7, using 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay, and an ethanol 6× control. The cell line that exhibited highest inhibition was selected and used in the following experiments. A range of Psorinum 6× doses was used to explore treatment effects on cell cycle arrest, cell death (apoptosis), generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and change in mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) using flow cytometry and fluorescence microscopy, respectively. Expression of several signal proteins related to apoptosis and cell survival were quantified with Western blotting and confocal microscopy. Further, circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy was used to determine possible drug-DNA interactions, as well as the induction of conformational changes. RESULTS Treatment of cancer cell lines with Psorinum showed greater anticancer effects in A549 cells than in others. In A549 cells Psorinum treatment inhibited cell proliferation at 24 h after treatment, and arrested cell cycle at sub-G1 stage. It also induced ROS generation, MMP depolarization, morphological changes and DNA damage, as well as externalization of phosphatidyl serine. Further, increases in p53 expression, Bax expression, cytochrome c release, along with reduction of Bcl-2 level and caspase-3 activation were observed after Psorinum 6× treatment, which eventually drove A549 cells towards the mitochondria-mediated caspase-3-dependent pathway. CD spectroscopy revealed direct interaction of Psorinum with DNA, using calf thymus-DNA as target. CONCLUSION Psorinum 6× triggered apoptosis in A549 cells via both up- and down-regulations of relevant signal proteins, including p53, caspase-3, Bax and Bcl-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesmin Mondal
- Cytogenetics and Molecular Biology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, University of Kalyani, Kalyani-741235, India
| | - Asmita Samadder
- Cytogenetics and Molecular Biology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, University of Kalyani, Kalyani-741235, India.,Department of Zoology, Dum Dum Motijheel College, Kolkata-700074, India
| | - Anisur Rahman Khuda-Bukhsh
- Cytogenetics and Molecular Biology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, University of Kalyani, Kalyani-741235, India
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Olioso D, Marzotto M, Bonafini C, Brizzi M, Bellavite P. Arnica montana effects on gene expression in a human macrophage cell line. Evaluation by quantitative Real-Time PCR. HOMEOPATHY 2016; 105:131-47. [PMID: 27211321 DOI: 10.1016/j.homp.2016.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2015] [Revised: 01/01/2016] [Accepted: 02/01/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Arnica montana is a popular traditional remedy widely used in complementary medicine, also for its wound healing properties. Despite its acknowledged action in clinical settings at various doses, the molecular aspects relating to how A. montana promotes wound healing remain to be elucidated. To fill this gap, we evaluated the whole plant extract, in a wide range of dilutions, in THP-1 human cells, differentiated into mature macrophages and into an alternative IL-4-activated phenotype involved in tissue remodelling and healing. METHODS Real-time quantitative Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) analysis was used to study the changes in the expression of a customized panel of key genes, mainly cytokines, receptors and transcription factors. RESULTS On macrophages differentiated towards the wound healing phenotype, A. montana affected the expression of several genes. In particular CXC chemokine ligand 1 (CXCL1), coding for an chief chemokine, exhibited the most consistent increase of expression, while also CXC chemokine ligand 2 (CXCL2), Interleukin8 (IL8) and bone morphogenetic protein (BMP2) were slightly up-regulated, suggesting a positive influence of A. montana on neutrophil recruitment and on angiogenesis. MMP1, coding for a metalloproteinase capable of cleaving extracellular matrix substrates, was down-regulated. Most results showed non-linearity of the dose-effect relationship. CONCLUSIONS This exploratory study provides new insights into the cellular and molecular mechanisms of action of A. montana as a promoter of healing, since some of the genes it modifies are key regulators of tissue remodelling, inflammation and chemotaxis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debora Olioso
- Department of Medicine, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie 8, 37134 Verona, Italy
| | - Marta Marzotto
- Department of Medicine, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie 8, 37134 Verona, Italy
| | - Clara Bonafini
- Department of Medicine, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie 8, 37134 Verona, Italy
| | - Maurizio Brizzi
- Department of Statistical Sciences, University of Bologna, Via delle Belle Arti 41, 40126 Bologna, Italy
| | - Paolo Bellavite
- Department of Medicine, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie 8, 37134 Verona, Italy.
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Update on preliminary elements of a theory of ultra high dilutions. HOMEOPATHY 2015; 104:337-42. [PMID: 26678740 DOI: 10.1016/j.homp.2015.09.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2015] [Revised: 08/18/2015] [Accepted: 09/25/2015] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The different mechanisms: A. of the interaction between the molecular mother substance and the solvent water or ethanol B. of the storage of molecule-specific information in the solvent. C. the physiological basis of the sensitivity of the living organism towards an ultra high dilution (UHD). D. the mechanism of the interaction of the test dilution with the organism are largely unknown. Several ideas have been postulated, and experiments to test them carried out in physics and in biology. METHOD The authors revisited a 1994 contribution on 'preliminary elements of a theory on UHDs' and updated it with regard to more recent literature and research findings. RESULTS Although the experimental basis can still be questioned in most cases, remarkable fundamental observations have been made to explain the effects of UHDs. For some topics in question, it appears that information specific properties of the diluted substance to be transferred is stored by means electromagnetic fields. The interaction between the UHD and the organism seems to be electromagnetic in nature. The transmission of information from (bio-)molecules to the UHD is of special interest. Again, electromagnetic actions and vector potential fields appear to be implicated. CONCLUSION The mechanisms of information storage and transfer in UHDs are far from fully understood, but progress has been made at experimental and theoretical levels.
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Replications of fundamental research models in ultra high dilutions 1994 and 2015--update on a bibliometric study. HOMEOPATHY 2015; 104:234-45. [PMID: 26678723 DOI: 10.1016/j.homp.2015.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2015] [Revised: 10/02/2015] [Accepted: 10/13/2015] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION This paper focuses exclusively on experimental models with ultra high dilutions (i.e. beyond 10(-23)) that have been submitted to replication scrutiny. It updates previous surveys, considers suggestions made by the research community and compares the state of replication in 1994 with that in 2015. METHODS Following literature research, biochemical, immunological, botanical, cell biological and zoological studies on ultra high dilutions (potencies) were included. Reports were grouped into initial studies, laboratory-internal, multicentre and external replications. Repetition could yield either comparable, or zero, or opposite results. The null-hypothesis was that test and control groups would not be distinguishable (zero effect). RESULTS A total of 126 studies were found. From these, 28 were initial studies. When all 98 replicative studies were considered, 70.4% (i.e. 69) reported a result comparable to that of the initial study, 20.4% (20) zero effect and 9.2% (9) an opposite result. Both for the studies until 1994 and the studies 1995-2015 the null-hypothesis (dominance of zero results) should be rejected. Furthermore, the odds of finding a comparable result are generally higher than of finding an opposite result. Although this is true for all three types of replication studies, the fraction of comparable studies diminishes from laboratory-internal (total 82.9%) to multicentre (total 75%) to external (total 48.3%), while the fraction of opposite results was 4.9%, 10.7% and 13.8%. Furthermore, it became obvious that the probability of an external replication producing comparable results is bigger for models that had already been further scrutinized by the initial researchers. CONCLUSIONS We found 28 experimental models which underwent replication. In total, 24 models were replicated with comparable results, 12 models with zero effect, and 6 models with opposite results. Five models were externally reproduced with comparable results. We encourage further replications of studies in order to learn more about the model systems used.
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