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Jędrzejewski T, Pawlikowska M, Sobocińska J, Wrotek S. COVID-19 and Cancer Diseases-The Potential of Coriolus versicolor Mushroom to Combat Global Health Challenges. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24054864. [PMID: 36902290 PMCID: PMC10003402 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24054864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2022] [Revised: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Coriolus versicolor (CV) is a common species from the Polyporaceae family that has been used in traditional Chinese herbal medicine for over 2000 years. Among well-described and most active compounds identified in CV are polysaccharopeptides, such as polysaccharide peptide (PSP) and Polysaccharide-K (PSK, krestin), which, in some countries, are already used as an adjuvant agent in cancer therapy. In this paper, research advances in the field of anti-cancer and anti-viral action of CV are analyzed. The results of data obtained in in vitro and in vivo studies using animal models as well as in clinical research trials have been discussed. The present update provides a brief overview regarding the immunomodulatory effects of CV. A particular focus has been given to the mechanisms of direct effects of CV on cancer cells and angiogenesis. A potential use of CV compounds in anti-viral treatment, including therapy against COVID-19 disease, has also been analyzed based on the most recent literature. Additionally, the significance of fever in viral infection and cancer has been debated, providing evidence that CV affects this phenomenon.
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Zhussupova A, Zhumaliyeva G, Ogay V, Issabekova A, Ross SA, Zhusupova GE. Immunomodulatory Effects of Plant Extracts from Salvia deserta Schang. and Salvia sclarea L. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 11:2690. [PMID: 36297710 PMCID: PMC9610708 DOI: 10.3390/plants11202690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Revised: 10/02/2022] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Medicines, their safety, effectiveness and quality are indispensable factors of national security, important on a global scale. The COVID-19 pandemic has once again emphasized the importance of improving the immune response of the body in the face of severe viral infections. Plants from the Salvia L. genus have long been used in traditional medicine for treatment of inflammatory processes, parasitic diseases, bacterial and viral infections. The aim of the current study was to evaluate the immunomodulatory effects of plant extracts LS-1, LS-2 from Salvia deserta Schang. and LS-3, LS-4 from Salvia sclarea L. plants growing in southern Kazakhstan by conventional and ultrasonic-assisted extraction, respectively. The cytotoxic effects of the named sage extracts on neonatal human dermal fibroblasts (HDFn) were evaluated using the MTT assay. Immunomodulatory effects of the studied extracts were compared by examining their influence on pro-inflammatory cytokine secretion and phagocytic activity of murine immune cells. Depending on the physiological state of the innate immune cells, sage extracts LS-2 and LS-3 had either a stimulating effect on inactivated macrophages or suppressed cytokine-producing activity in LPS-activated macrophages. The greatest increase in TNF-α secretion was found after treatment of spleen T lymphocytes with sage extract LS-2, obtained by ultrasonic-assisted extraction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aizhan Zhussupova
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, NPJSC Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, Al-Farabi Ave. 71, Almaty 050040, Kazakhstan
| | - Gaziza Zhumaliyeva
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, NPJSC Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, Al-Farabi Ave. 71, Almaty 050040, Kazakhstan
| | - Vyacheslav Ogay
- Stem Cell Laboratory, National Center for Biotechnology, Qorghalzhyn Highway 13/5, Astana 010000, Kazakhstan
| | - Assel Issabekova
- Stem Cell Laboratory, National Center for Biotechnology, Qorghalzhyn Highway 13/5, Astana 010000, Kazakhstan
| | - Samir A. Ross
- School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, P.O. Box 1848, University, MS 38677, USA
- School of Pharmacy, S.D. Asfendiyarov Kazakh National Medical University, Almaty 050000, Kazakhstan
| | - Galiya E. Zhusupova
- Department of Chemistry and Technology of Organic Substances, Natural Compounds and Polymers, NPJSC Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, Al-Farabi Ave. 71, Almaty 050040, Kazakhstan
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Estolano-Cobián A, Alonso MM, Díaz-Rubio L, Ponce CN, Córdova-Guerrero I, Marrero JG. Tanshinones and their Derivatives: Heterocyclic Ring-Fused Diterpenes of Biological Interest. Mini Rev Med Chem 2021; 21:171-185. [PMID: 32348220 DOI: 10.2174/1389557520666200429103225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2019] [Revised: 01/06/2020] [Accepted: 02/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The available scientific literature regarding tanshinones is very abundant, and after its review, it is noticeable that most of the articles focus on the properties of tanshinone I, cryptotanshinone, tanshinone IIA, sodium tanshinone IIA sulfonate and the dried root extract of Salvia miltiorrhiza (Tan- Shen). However, although these products have demonstrated important biological properties in both in vitro and in vivo models, their poor solubility and bioavailability have limited their clinical applications. For these reasons, many studies have focused on the search for new pharmaceutical formulations for tanshinones, as well as the synthesis of new derivatives that improve their biological properties. To provide new insights into the critical path ahead, we systemically reviewed the most recent advances (reported since 2015) on tanshinones in scientific databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Medline, Scopus, and Clinical Trials). With a broader perspective, we offer an update on the last five years of new research on these quinones, focusing on their synthesis, biological activity on noncommunicable diseases and drug delivery systems, to support future research on its clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arturo Estolano-Cobián
- Facultad de Ciencias Quiımicas e Ing, Universidad Autonoma de Baja California, Clz. Universidad 14418, Parque Industrial Internacional, Tijuana, B. C. CP 22390, Mexico
| | - Mariana Macías Alonso
- Instituto Politecnico Nacional, UPIIG, Av. Mineral de Valenciana, No. 200, Col. Fracc, Industrial Puerto Interior, C.P. 36275 Silao de la Victoria, Guanajuato, Mexico
| | - Laura Díaz-Rubio
- Facultad de Ciencias Quiımicas e Ing, Universidad Autonoma de Baja California, Clz. Universidad 14418, Parque Industrial Internacional, Tijuana, B. C. CP 22390, Mexico
| | - Cecilia Naredo Ponce
- Instituto Politecnico Nacional, UPIIG, Av. Mineral de Valenciana, No. 200, Col. Fracc, Industrial Puerto Interior, C.P. 36275 Silao de la Victoria, Guanajuato, Mexico
| | - Iván Córdova-Guerrero
- Facultad de Ciencias Quiımicas e Ing, Universidad Autonoma de Baja California, Clz. Universidad 14418, Parque Industrial Internacional, Tijuana, B. C. CP 22390, Mexico
| | - Joaquín G Marrero
- Instituto Politecnico Nacional, UPIIG, Av. Mineral de Valenciana, No. 200, Col. Fracc, Industrial Puerto Interior, C.P. 36275 Silao de la Victoria, Guanajuato, Mexico
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A safety assessment of hot aqueous mycelium extracts from Trametes versicolor and Lepista nuda as a food supplement. Biologia (Bratisl) 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s11756-021-00761-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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Yue GGL, Lau CBS, Leung PC. Medicinal Plants and Mushrooms with Immunomodulatory and Anticancer Properties-A Review on Hong Kong's Experience. Molecules 2021; 26:2173. [PMID: 33918834 PMCID: PMC8068888 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26082173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2021] [Revised: 03/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The immune modulating effects of selected herbs deserve careful studies to gain evidence-based support for their further development. We have been working hard on many items of medicinal herbs to gain insight into their immunomodulatory effects relevant to cancer treatment in particular, while infection control is not excluded. Nine of them have been selected to give the results of our exploration on their biological, particularly immunomodulatory activities. Since Hong Kong people especially favor one medicinal mushroom, viz. Coriolus versicolor, a number of clinical trials using Coriolus for cancer-related studies are included in this review. While immune modulation platforms are being built for relevant studies, a brief account on the research targets and related procedures are given.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace Gar-Lee Yue
- Institute of Chinese Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong, China; (G.G.-L.Y.); (C.B.-S.L.)
- State Key Laboratory of Research on Bioactivities and Clinical Applications of Medicinal Plants, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong, China
| | - Clara Bik-San Lau
- Institute of Chinese Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong, China; (G.G.-L.Y.); (C.B.-S.L.)
- State Key Laboratory of Research on Bioactivities and Clinical Applications of Medicinal Plants, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong, China
| | - Ping-Chung Leung
- Institute of Chinese Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong, China; (G.G.-L.Y.); (C.B.-S.L.)
- State Key Laboratory of Research on Bioactivities and Clinical Applications of Medicinal Plants, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong, China
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Practical Application of "About Herbs" Website: Herbs and Dietary Supplement Use in Oncology Settings. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 25:357-366. [PMID: 31567464 DOI: 10.1097/ppo.0000000000000403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The Integrative Medicine Service at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center developed and maintains About Herbs (www.aboutherbs.com), which provides summaries of research data including purported uses, adverse effects, and herb-drug interactions for about 284 dietary supplements. Using Google Analytics, we found the website registered more than 26,317,000 hits since November 2002. The 10 most searched-for herbs/supplements of 2018 are chaga mushroom, turmeric, ashwagandha, reishi mushroom, graviola, Active Hexose-Correlated Compound, boswellia, dandelion, green tea, and Coriolus versicolor. Here we discuss their safety, herb-drug interactions, and appropriate uses in the oncology setting, based on literature searches in PubMed. Over the past 16 years, the evidence for use of these supplements is based mostly on preclinical findings, with few well-designed studies and limited trials conducted in cancer patients. It is important to familiarize health care professionals about popular supplements, so patients can be informed to make decisions that maximize benefits and minimize risks.
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Habtemariam S. Trametes versicolor (Synn. Coriolus versicolor) Polysaccharides in Cancer Therapy: Targets and Efficacy. Biomedicines 2020; 8:biomedicines8050135. [PMID: 32466253 PMCID: PMC7277906 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines8050135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2020] [Revised: 05/20/2020] [Accepted: 05/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Coriolus versicolor (L.) Quél. is a higher fungi or mushroom which is now known by its accepted scientific name as Trametes versicolor (L.) Lloyd (family Polyporaceae). The polysaccharides, primarily two commercial products from China and Japan as PSP and PSK, respectively, have been claimed to serve as adjuvant therapy for cancer. In this paper, research advances in this field, including direct cytotoxicity in cancer cells and immunostimulatory effects, are scrutinised at three levels: in vitro, in vivo and clinical outcomes. The level of activity in the various cancers, key targets (both in cancer and immune cells) and pharmacological efficacies are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Solomon Habtemariam
- Pharmacognosy Research Laboratories & Herbal Analysis Services UK, University of Greenwich, Chatham-Maritime, Kent ME4 4TB, UK
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Saleh MH, Rashedi I, Keating A. Immunomodulatory Properties of Coriolus versicolor: The Role of Polysaccharopeptide. Front Immunol 2017; 8:1087. [PMID: 28932226 PMCID: PMC5592279 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2017.01087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2017] [Accepted: 08/21/2017] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Traditional uses of herbal medicine have depended mostly on anecdotal evidence for much of history. The increasing application of scientific rigor to the study some of these traditional therapies in recent years has revealed potent bioactivity, notably demonstrated by the 2015 Nobel Prize for the discovery of an antimalarial compound from traditional Chinese herbs. Given the recent successes of immunotherapy and checkpoint blockade, there is a renewed interest in identifying new drugs with immunomodulatory effects. As an estimated 45-60% of cancer patients worldwide are reported to use complementary alternative medicine alongside traditional therapy, this review will highlight the literature on the immunomodulatory effects of one of these compounds. We report on the induction of a largely pro-inflammatory cytokine profile by the polysaccharopeptide (PSP) isolated from the Coriolus versicolor (Yun zhi) mushroom, as well as its effects on various immune subsets, and the clinical data that have led to its widespread adoption as an adjunct cancer therapeutic in many Eastern cultures. Particular focus is given to the potential mechanisms underlying the bioactivity of PSP and reports of its ability to promote antitumor immunity by helping overcome tolerogenic tumor microenvironments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad H Saleh
- Institute of Biomaterials and Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Cell Therapy Program, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Iran Rashedi
- Cell Therapy Program, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Armand Keating
- Institute of Biomaterials and Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Cell Therapy Program, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
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Zhou X, Liu Z, Long T, Zhou L, Bao Y. Immunomodulatory effects of herbal formula of astragalus polysaccharide (APS) and polysaccharopeptide (PSP) in mice with lung cancer. Int J Biol Macromol 2017; 106:596-601. [PMID: 28818721 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2017.08.054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2017] [Revised: 07/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study is to investigate the immunomodulatory effects of the herbal formula of astragalus polysaccharide (APS) and polysaccharopeptide (PSP) in mouse models of immunosuppression and lung cancer. METHODS Immune parameters were recorded for these model mice. Peripheral white blood cells (WBC) were detected with the automatic blood cell analyzer. Spleen and thymus indices, and tumor inhibition ratio were obtained. Percentage of peripheral blood CD4+ and CD8+ T lymphocytes were detected by flow cytometry. Serum levels of Th1 (IL-2, TNF, and IFN-γ), Th2 (IL-4, IL-6, and IL-10), and Th17 (IL-17A) were detected with the BD cytometric bead array (CBA) mouseTh1/Th2/Th17 cytokine kit. RESULTS Compared with the NS group, the PSP and APS herbal formula significantly improved the WBC, thymus index, spleen index, CD4+/CD8+ ratio, TNF, IFN-γ, IL-2, andIL-17Ainimmunosuppressivemice and lung cancer mice (P<0. 05). On the contrary, IL-10 was relatively low in the PSP+APS herbal formula group (P<0. 05). Besides, the PSP+APS herbal formula group induced comparable tumor inhibiting effect with the AMD group (23.3% and 24.1%, respectively). CONCLUSION The PSP+APS herbal formula have immunomodulatory effects and anti-tumor activity in mice with of lung cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xing Zhou
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400010, China
| | - Zijing Liu
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi 830054, Xinjiang, China
| | - Tingting Long
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400010, China
| | - Lijng Zhou
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400010, China
| | - Yixi Bao
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400010, China.
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Burks-Wicks C, Cohen M, Fallbacher J, Taylor RN, Wieser F. A Western Primer of Chinese Herbal Therapy in Endometriosis and Infertility. WOMENS HEALTH 2016; 1:447-63. [DOI: 10.2217/17455057.1.3.447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Endometriosis is a disease that affects approximately 10% of all reproductive-aged women and the prevalence rises to 20–50% in infertile women. There is growing evidence that medicinal Chinese herbs with pain-alleviating and anti-inflammatory properties may be useful in the treatment of endometriosis and infertility, but the mechanisms of action of these herbs have yet to be investigated. In addition, studies of adequate design, sample size and appropriate control are lacking. Therefore, prospective randomized, controlled studies to evaluate the efficacy, mechanism of action and toxicities of Chinese herbs in the treatment endometriosis and infertility are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla Burks-Wicks
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of California, 513 Parnassus Ave, San Francico, CA, USA,
| | - Misha Cohen
- Institute for Health & Aging, University of California, 513 Parnassus Ave, San Francisco, CA, USA, Tel.: +1 415 864 7234; Fax: +1 415 864 9653
| | - Josef Fallbacher
- ARGE-TCM, Albertgasse 33/1, A-1080, Vienna, Austria, Tel.: +43 1 409 2323; Fax: +43 1 406 0213
| | - Robert N Taylor
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Emory School of Medicine, WMB, 1639 Pierce Drive, Room 4217, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, USA, Tel.: +1 404 727 9106; Fax: +1 404 727 8609
| | - Fritz Wieser
- Division of Endocrinology & Reproductive Medicine, Dept. of Gynecology & Obstetrics, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria,
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β-glucans from Coriolus versicolor protect mice against S. typhimurium challenge by activation of macrophages. Int J Biol Macromol 2016; 86:352-61. [PMID: 26802244 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2016.01.058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2015] [Revised: 12/29/2015] [Accepted: 01/18/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The effects of β-glucans from Coriolus versicolor (CVP), which are extracted from a well-known immune stimulator C. versicolor, have been demonstrated extensively in vitro and in vivo. However, until now, the phagocytic activity has not been elucidated. Hence, the objective of the present study was to identify the antibacterial activity of CVP or CVP-treated macrophages by an analysis of cell cytotoxicity, phagocytic activity, intracellular bacterial survival, macrophage activation, production of nitric oxide (NO) and expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) in CVP-treated macrophages using flow cytometry, RT-PCR, a gentamicin protection assay, a Nitric oxide assay and an iNOS enzymatic activity assay. The results indicate that CVP-treated macrophages can phagocytize and kill bacteria, probably due to the production of NO and iNOS. More importantly, CVP-treated macrophages are effective at protecting mice against the challenge of Salmonella typhimurium. The results of this study suggest that the antibacterial effects of CVP are probably caused by the activation of innate immune cells, especially macrophages, because the activated macrophage produces NO, which kills bacteria. These phenomena indicate the possibility of CVP as a potential alternative for antibiotics against resistant bacteria.
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Wang Z, Dong B, Feng Z, Yu S, Bao Y. A study on immunomodulatory mechanism of Polysaccharopeptide mediated by TLR4 signaling pathway. BMC Immunol 2015; 16:34. [PMID: 26032186 PMCID: PMC4450994 DOI: 10.1186/s12865-015-0100-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2014] [Accepted: 05/20/2015] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Polysaccharopeptide (PSP), isolated from Coriolus versicolor COV-1 strain, is a protein-bound polysaccharide widely used as immunoadjuvant for cancer immunotherapy. Although the immunomodulatory activity of PSP has been well established, the precise molecule mechanisms of its biological activity have yet to be fully elucidated. Methods In the present study, we first investigated the immunomodulatory activity of PSP in peritoneal macrophages from C57BL/10J (TLR4+/+) and C57BL/10ScCr (TLR4-/-) mice carrying a defective toll-like receptor-4 (TLR4) gene and then evaluated PSP for its effect on tumor inhibition rates and the immune organ index in above two different strains of mice. In addition, PSP were also evaluated for its activation of TLR4, TLR4-downstream molecules (TRAF6, NF-κB and AP-1) in spleens of tumor-bearing C57BL/10J (TLR4+/+) and C57BL/10ScCr (TLR4-/-) mice. Results The results showed that PSP had adjuvant activities in stimulating expressions of cytokines as well as TLR4, TRAF6, phosphorylation of NF-κB p65 transcription factors and phosphorylation of c-Jun (a component of the transcription factor AP-1) in peritoneal macrophages from C57BL/10J (TLR4+/+) mice but not from C57BL/10ScCr (TLR4-/-) mice. In vivo PSP as well as Adriamycin (ADM) decreased the mean weights of tumors compared with normal saline and PSP increased thymus index and spleen index relative to ADM in tumor-bearing C57BL/10J (TLR4+/+) mice but not in C57BL/10ScCr (TLR4-/-) mice. Conclusions We demonstrated that PSP activates peritoneal macrophages in vitro via TLR4 signaling pathway and PSP functions its immunoregulatory effect in vivo also via TLR4 signaling pathway. These data strongly suggest TLR4 signaling pathway is involved in PSP-mediated immunomodulatory activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhixue Wang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Lin Jiang Rd. #76, Yuzhong District, 400010, Chongqing, China.
| | - Bing Dong
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Lin Jiang Rd. #76, Yuzhong District, 400010, Chongqing, China.
| | - Zifang Feng
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Lin Jiang Rd. #76, Yuzhong District, 400010, Chongqing, China.
| | - Shuang Yu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Lin Jiang Rd. #76, Yuzhong District, 400010, Chongqing, China.
| | - Yixi Bao
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Lin Jiang Rd. #76, Yuzhong District, 400010, Chongqing, China.
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Liang W, Yew DT, Hon KL, Wong CK, Kwok TCY, Leung PC. Indispensable value of clinical trials in the modernization of traditional Chinese medicine: 12 years' experience at CUHK and future perspectives. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF CHINESE MEDICINE 2014; 42:587-604. [PMID: 24871653 DOI: 10.1142/s0192415x14500384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The last decade has seen a wealth of information reporting the beneficial effects of Chinese herbal medicines. While a lot more studies were done using in vitro and in vivo research platforms, much fewer investigations were conducted according to evidence-based requirements in clinical settings. The Institute of Chinese Medicine at the Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) has had the opportunity to collaborate with clinicians over the years to initiate and conduct dozens of clinical trials investigating and verifying the therapeutic values of Chinese herbs in selected disease conditions. Of the many disorders, we chose to focus on those that are known for their difficulties achieving perfect results with conventional treatment methods. Examples include non-healing ulcers, allergic conditions, degenerative diseases and cancer. Protective effects of the herbs in such chronic diseases as coronary artery disease and osteoporosis were also part of our focus. Even in healthy individuals and those recovering from chemotherapy, Chinese herbs could help with the immune system and were studied in our clinical trials as well. This paper aims to highlight the important findings from these clinical studies while at the same time, stressing the indispensable value of clinical trials in modernizing the use of Chinese herbs in present-day medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Willmann Liang
- Institute of Chinese Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
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Wang J, Dong B, Tan Y, Yu S, Bao YX. A study on the immunomodulation of polysaccharopeptide through the TLR4-TIRAP/MAL-MyD88 signaling pathway in PBMCs from breast cancer patients. Immunopharmacol Immunotoxicol 2013; 35:497-504. [DOI: 10.3109/08923973.2013.805764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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Hor SY, Ahmad M, Farsi E, Lim CP, Asmawi MZ, Yam MF. Acute and subchronic oral toxicity of Coriolus versicolor standardized water extract in Sprague-Dawley rats. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2011; 137:1067-1076. [PMID: 21767625 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2011.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2011] [Revised: 06/30/2011] [Accepted: 07/03/2011] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Coriolus versicolor, which is known as Yun Zhi, is one of the commonly used Chinese medicinal herbs. Recent studies have demonstrated its antitumor activities on cancer cells which led to its widespread use in cancer patient. However, little toxicological information is available regarding its safety. The present study evaluated the potential toxicity of Coriolus versicolor standardized water extract after acute and subchronic administration in rats. MATERIALS AND METHODS In acute toxicity study, Coriolus versicolor water extract was administered by oral gavage to Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats (6 males, 6 females) at single doses of varying concentrations 1250, 2500 and 5000 mg/kg. In subchronic toxicity study, the extract was administered orally at doses of 1250, 2500 and 5000 mg/kg/day for 28 days to male and female SD rats respectively. General behavior, adverse effects and mortality were determined throughout the experimental period. Haematological and biochemical parameters, relative organ weights and histopathological were evaluated at the end of the experiment. RESULTS There were no mortality and signs of toxicity in acute and subchronic toxicity studies. In the single dose acute toxicity and repeated dose 28-day subchronic toxicity studies, there were no significant difference in body weight, relative organ weight, haematological parameters, clinical chemistry, gross pathology and histopathology between treatment and control groups. CONCLUSIONS Coriolus versicolor water extract did not cause remarkable adverse effect in SD rats. The oral lethal dose of Coriolus versicolor water extract is more than 5000 mg/kg and no-observed-adverse-effect level (NOAEL) of the extract for both male and female rats is 5000 mg/kg per day for 28 days.
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MESH Headings
- Administration, Oral
- Agaricales/chemistry
- Animals
- Antineoplastic Agents, Phytogenic/administration & dosage
- Antineoplastic Agents, Phytogenic/isolation & purification
- Antineoplastic Agents, Phytogenic/toxicity
- Behavior, Animal/drug effects
- Biomarkers/blood
- Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
- Drugs, Chinese Herbal/administration & dosage
- Drugs, Chinese Herbal/isolation & purification
- Drugs, Chinese Herbal/toxicity
- Female
- Male
- Mushroom Poisoning/blood
- Mushroom Poisoning/etiology
- Mushroom Poisoning/pathology
- Mushroom Poisoning/psychology
- No-Observed-Adverse-Effect Level
- Organ Size/drug effects
- Rats
- Rats, Sprague-Dawley
- Risk Assessment
- Solvents/chemistry
- Time Factors
- Toxicity Tests, Acute
- Toxicity Tests, Subchronic
- Water/chemistry
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Affiliation(s)
- Sook Yee Hor
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Minden 11800, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia.
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16
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Mondal S, Varma S, Bamola VD, Naik SN, Mirdha BR, Padhi MM, Mehta N, Mahapatra SC. Double-blinded randomized controlled trial for immunomodulatory effects of Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum Linn.) leaf extract on healthy volunteers. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2011; 136:452-456. [PMID: 21619917 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2011.05.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2011] [Accepted: 05/10/2011] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum Linn.) is considered as a sacred herb and traditionally it is believed that consumption of Tulsi leaf on empty stomach increases immunity. Experimental studies have shown that alcoholic extract of Tulsi modulates immunity. MATERIALS AND METHODS The present study was designed to evaluate the immunomodulatory effects of ethanolic extract of Tulsi leaves through a double-blinded randomized controlled cross-over trial on healthy volunteers. Three hundred milligrams capsules of ethanolic extracts of leaves of Tulsi or placebo were administered to 24 healthy volunteers on empty stomach and the results of 22 subjects who completed the study were analyzed. The primary objective was to study the levels of Th1 and Th2 cytokines (interferon-γ and interleukin-4) during both pre and post intervention period in blood culture supernatants following stimulation with lipopolysaccharide and phytohaemagglutinin. Other immunological parameters such as T-helper and T-cytotoxic cells, B-cells and NK-cells also were analyzed using Flowcytometry. RESULTS Statistically significant increase in the levels of IFN-γ (p=0.039), IL-4 (p=0.001) and percentages of T-helper cells (p=0.001) and NK-cells (p=0.017) were observed after 4 weeks in the Tulsi extract intervention group in contrast to the placebo group. CONCLUSIONS These observations clearly ascertain the immunomodulatory role of Tulsi leaves extract on healthy volunteers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shankar Mondal
- Department of Physiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
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17
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Purification and characterization of a novel immunomodulatory protein from the medicinal mushroom Trametes versicolor. SCIENCE CHINA-LIFE SCIENCES 2011; 54:379-85. [DOI: 10.1007/s11427-011-4153-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2010] [Accepted: 08/19/2010] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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18
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Lee CL, Jiang P, Sit WH, Yang X, Wan JMF. Regulatory properties of polysaccharopeptide derived from Coriolus versicolor and its combined effect with ciclosporin on the homeostasis of human lymphocytes. THE JOURNAL OF PHARMACY AND PHARMACOLOGY 2010; 62:1028-36. [PMID: 20663037 DOI: 10.1211/jpp.62.08.0009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Lymphocyte homoeostasis is essential in inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. In search of natural fungal metabolites with effects on lymphocyte homoeostasis, we recently reported that polysaccharopeptide (PSP) from Coriolus versicolor exhibited ciclosporin-like activity in controlling aberrant lymphocyte activation. This object of this study was to investigate its effect on lymphocyte homoeostasis. This was done by investigating the mechanistic actions of PSP in relation to ciclosporin by performing cell cycle and cell death analysis of human lymphocytes in vitro. METHODS We investigated the effect of PSP in the presence and absence of ciclosporin on cell proliferation, cell cycle, cell death, immunophenotype and cell cycle regulatory proteins in human lymphocytes. KEY FINDINGS The data showed that PSP exhibited homoeostatic activity by promoting and inhibiting the proliferation of resting and phytohaemagglutinin (PHA)-stimulated lymphocytes, respectively. PHA-stimulated lymphocytes exhibited G0/G1 cell cycle arrest that was accompanied by a reduction of cyclin E expression with PSP treatment. Both PSP and ciclosporin blocked the reduction of the CD4/CD8 ratio in stimulated lymphocytes. PSP did not induce cell death in human lymphocytes, but the suppression of the Fasreceptor suggested a protective role of PSP against extrinsic cell death signals. These homoeostatic effects were more potent with combined PSP and ciclosporin treatment than with either fungal metabolite alone. CONCLUSIONS Collectively, the results reveal certain novel effects of PSP in lymphocyte homoeostasis and suggest potential as a specific immunomodulatory adjuvant for clinical applications in the treatment of autoimmune diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheuk-Lun Lee
- School of Biological Sciences, Kadoorie Biological Sciences Building, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong SAR
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19
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Wong LYE, Wong CK, Leung PC, Lam WKC. The efficacy of herbal therapy on quality of life in patients with breast cancer: self-control clinical trial. Patient Prefer Adherence 2010; 4:223-9. [PMID: 20694182 PMCID: PMC2915555 DOI: 10.2147/ppa.s10961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2010] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mounting evidence indicates that herbal therapy is effective in alleviating anxiety, lessening cancer treatment-related side-effects, and facilitating rehabilitation. This is the first trial to examine the herbal therapy of combined yunzhi and danshen on quality of life among breast cancer patients. METHODS A multicenter, longitudinal, and self-control study was used. Eighty-two breast cancer patients were given combined yunzhi and danshen capsules for six months on a daily basis. Data collection including quality of life, vitality status and adverse effects were taken. RESULTS Results showed a significant improvement in physical function, role-physical, role-emotion and health transition (P < 0.05). Patients also reported less fatigue, better quality of sleep, better appetite, more regular bowel movements and more stable emotions (P < 0.05). As far as side-effects were concerned, only mild discomforts including sore throat (13.4%) and dry mouth (9.8%) were recorded. CONCLUSION The findings add clinical evidence to support the beneficial effects of herbal therapy on quality of life and vitality status in breast cancer patients. Therefore, herbal therapy has a potentially important role to play in managing psychological distress in cancer patients. This study also suggests that herbal therapy is clinically acceptable and can be used safely with breast cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lai Yi Eliza Wong
- Assistant Professor, Department of Community and Family Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong
- Correspondence: Lai Yi Eliza Wong, Department of Community and Family Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, 4/F, School of Public Health Building, Prince of Wales Hospital, N.T, Hong Kong, Tel +852 2252 8772, Fax +852 2606 3500, Email
| | - Chun Kwok Wong
- Associate Professor, Department of Chemical Pathology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong
| | - Ping Chung Leung
- Director, Institute of Chinese Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, 5/F, School of Public Health Building, Prince of Wales Hospital, NT, Hong Kong
| | - Wei Kei Christopher Lam
- Chairman, Department of Chemical Pathology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, 1/F, Clinical Sciences Building, Prince of Wales Hospital, NT, Hong Kong
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20
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Amirghofran Z, Bahmani M, Azadmehr A, Javidnia K, Ramazani M, Ziaei A. Effect ofSalvia mirzayaniion the immune system and induction of apoptosis in peripheral blood lymphocytes. Nat Prod Res 2010; 24:500-8. [DOI: 10.1080/14786410802267502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Amirghofran
- a Immunology Department , Shiraz University of Medical Science , Shiraz , Iran
- b Autoimmune Disease Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Science , Shiraz , Iran
- c Medicinal & Natural Products Chemistry Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Science , Shiraz , Iran
| | - Masoud Bahmani
- a Immunology Department , Shiraz University of Medical Science , Shiraz , Iran
| | - Abbas Azadmehr
- a Immunology Department , Shiraz University of Medical Science , Shiraz , Iran
| | - Katayoun Javidnia
- c Medicinal & Natural Products Chemistry Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Science , Shiraz , Iran
| | - Mohammad Ramazani
- d Pharmaceutical Research Center, Bu-Ali Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Science , Mashhad , Iran
| | - Akram Ziaei
- a Immunology Department , Shiraz University of Medical Science , Shiraz , Iran
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21
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Happy aging. Chin J Integr Med 2010; 15:466-9. [PMID: 20082255 DOI: 10.1007/s11655-009-0466-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2008] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Aging is a normal physiological process in human life. The decline in the ability to repair and regenerate predisposes the aging person to develop disabling problems in the cardiovascular and skeletal systems. Full awareness of aging problems and advocations on the means to prevent their occurrence are mounting. European and US groups rely on scientific, target-oriented means to treat aging manifestations. Oriental medicine aims at prevention, using nutrition and exercise to maintain internal harmony.
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22
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Amirghofran Z, Bahmani M, Azadmehr A, Javidnia K, Miri R. Immunomodulatory activities of various medicinal plant extracts: effects on human lymphocytes apoptosis. Immunol Invest 2009; 38:181-92. [PMID: 19330626 DOI: 10.1080/08820130902817051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Plant extracts have been widely evaluated for biological properties. In the present study extracts of several native plants in Iran was investigated for their possible immunomodulatory effects. Peripheral blood lymphocytes separated from healthy individuals were stimulated with phytohemagglutinin (PHA) and cultured with different concentrations of the extracts. Comparison of the cell proliferation in treated cultures showed the highest inhibitory effect due to exposure with Linum persicum. This extract caused a strong dose-dependent decrease in lymphocyte proliferation (p < 0.001). Lymphocytes treated with Cirsium bracteosum were inhibited in a dose dependent manner (SI range 0.9-0.2). Similarly, Echinophora cinerea-treated lymphocytes showed a significant reduction in proliferation compared to that in non-treated cells. Among the extracts, Dionysia termeana, Salvia macrociphon and Ferulago angulata had a mild stimulatory effect on the lymphocytes at concentrations less than 1 microg/ml (p < 0.05). At higher doses all these extracts showed significant inhibitory effects on the proliferation of PHA-treated cells (SI range 0.81 to 0.04). In cell cycle analysis performed by flow cytometry, the strongest appearance of apoptotic cells at sub-G1 phase in various extract-treated cultures was found for D. termeana (14.6 +/- 0.5%). The Percentage of cells undergoing apoptosis in cultures treated with L. persicum was more than 11 compared to that of the control (1.7 +/- 0.08). In DNA analysis, D. termeana and L. persicum showed typical DNA laddering, indicating that these extracts induced apoptosis of lymphocytes. In conclusion, all the extracts studied showed lymphocyte inhibitory effects at high concentrations. These inhibitory effects for some of the plants seem to be due to induction of apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Amirghofran
- Immunology Department, Shiraz University of Medical Science, Shiraz, Iran.
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23
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Ka Wai Lee S, Kwok Wong C, Kai Kong S, Nam Leung K, Wai Kei Lam C. Immunomodulatory Activities of HERBSnSENSES™Cordyceps—in Vitroandin VivoStudies. Immunopharmacol Immunotoxicol 2008; 28:341-60. [PMID: 16873101 DOI: 10.1080/08923970600809470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
The commercially available HERBSnSENSEStrade mark Cordyceps (HSCS) belongs to a cultivated strain of Cordyceps sinensis whose immunomodulatory activities has been renowned in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for centuries. The present report is the first that describes its immunomodulatory features through a series of in vitro and in vivo experiments. We measured, in peripheral blood mononuclear cells the in vitro effects of HSCS on the gene expression of cytokines and cytokine receptors, cytokine release, and surface expression of cytokine receptors using cDNA expression array, cytometric bead array (CBA), and immunoflorescence staining, respectively, as well as macrophage phagocytosis and monocyte production of H2O2 using flow cytometry. Sixty female BALB/c mice were fed with either HSCS (40 mg/kg/day) or water consecutively for 14 days. Proliferation, cytokine liberation, and CD3/4/8 expression of splenic cells were measured using 5-bromo-2'-deoxyuridine proliferation ELISA, CBA, and cytometry immunoflorescence staining, respectively. In vitro results demonstrated that HSCS induced the production of interleukin(IL)-1beta, IL-6, IL-10 and tumor necrosis factor alphaalpha from PBMC, augmented surface expression of CD25 on lymphocytes, and elevated macrophage phagocytosis and monocyte production of H2O2. In vivo results showed that HSCS did not induce splenomegaly and cytokine overliberation. Our results possibly provide the biochemical basis for future clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharon Ka Wai Lee
- Department of Chemical Pathology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, Hong Kong
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24
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Leung PC. Efforts to achieve healthy aging. INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE INSIGHTS 2008; 3:43-8. [PMID: 21614158 PMCID: PMC3046017 DOI: 10.4137/imi.s976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Longevity is a blessing as long as good health is not lost. However, the tendency to have a decline on normal physiological activities is inevitable because of the natural processes of degeneration at all levels: molecular, cellular and organic. Hence, the elderly people frequently suffer from cardiovascular problems and skeletal deteriorations that gradually develop to disabilities. Awareness of factors leading to unhealthy aging has led to the formation of different professional groups that aim at the maintenance of health of aging community. The approach tends to be target orientated for the European and US groups, aiming at hormonal replacements and detoxification. In contrast, the oriental groups have been keeping their traditional belief of prevention and internal balance, using nutritional arrangements and non-strenuous exercise as means of maintaining health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ping-Chung Leung
- Institute of Chinese Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, HKSAR
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25
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LEE YC, CHUAH AM, YAMAGUCHI T, TAKAMURA H, MATOBA T. Antioxidant Activity of Traditional Chinese Medicinal Herbs. FOOD SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY RESEARCH 2008. [DOI: 10.3136/fstr.14.205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
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26
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Decreased ex vivo production of TNF-α and IL-8 by peripheral blood cells of patients with rheumatoid arthritis after infliximab therapy. Int Immunopharmacol 2007; 7:1668-77. [DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2007.08.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2007] [Revised: 08/28/2007] [Accepted: 08/28/2007] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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27
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Cui J, Goh KKT, Archer R, Singh H. Characterisation and bioactivity of protein-bound polysaccharides from submerged-culture fermentation of Coriolus versicolor Wr-74 and ATCC-20545 strains. J Ind Microbiol Biotechnol 2007; 34:393-402. [PMID: 17318488 DOI: 10.1007/s10295-007-0209-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2006] [Accepted: 01/20/2007] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
The protein-bound polysaccharides of Coriolus versicolor (CPS) have been reported to stimulate overall immune functions against cancers and various infectious diseases by activating specific cell functions. A New Zealand isolate (Wr-74) and a patented strain (ATCC-20545) of C. versicolor were compared in this study. The fruit bodies of both strains were grown for visual verification. Both strains were grown in submerged-culture using an airlift fermentor with milk permeate as the base medium supplemented with glucose, yeast extract and salt. Metabolic profiles of both strains obtained over 7-day fermentation showed very similar trends in terms of biomass production (8.9-10.6 mg/ml), amounts of extracellular polysaccharide (EPS) from the culture medium (1150-1132 microg/ml), and intracellular polysaccharide (IPS) from the mycelium (80-100 microg/ml). Glucose was the dominant sugar in both EPS and IPS, and the polymers each consisted of three molecular weight fractions ranging from 2 x 10(6) to 3 x 10(3 )Da. Both the EPS and IPS were able to significantly induce cytokine production (interleukin 12 and gamma interferon) in murine splenocytes in vitro. Highest levels of interleukin 12 (291 pg/ml) and gamma interferon (6,159 pg/ml) were obtained from samples containing Wr-74 IPS (0.06 microg/ml) and ATCC 20545 IPS (0.1 microg/ml), respectively. The results indicated that lower levels of EPS and IPS generally resulted in higher immune responses than did higher polymer concentrations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Cui
- Riddet Centre, Massey University, Private Bag 11 222, Palmerston North, New Zealand
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28
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Poon PMK, Wong CK, Fung KP, Fong CYS, Wong ELY, Lau JTF, Leung PC, Tsui SKW, Wan DCC, Waye MMY, Au SWN, Lau CBS, Lam CWK. Immunomodulatory effects of a traditional Chinese medicine with potential antiviral activity: a self-control study. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF CHINESE MEDICINE 2006; 34:13-21. [PMID: 16437735 DOI: 10.1142/s0192415x0600359x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has been used for prevention and treatment of severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) in Hong Kong during the outbreak in spring 2003. We investigated the immunomodulating effects of an innovative TCM regimen derived from two herbal formulas (Sang Ju Yin and Yu Ping Feng San) for treating febrile diseases. Thirty-seven healthy volunteers were given the oral TCM regimen daily for 14 days. Peripheral venous blood samples were taken on days 0, 15 and 29 for hematology, biochemistry and immunology tests, including the measurement of blood lymphocyte subsets and plasma T-helper lymphocyte types 1 and 2 cytokines and receptor. After 3 months, 23 of the volunteers participated in a control study without TCM treatment for the same time course of blood tests. Two volunteers withdrew on day 2, due to headache and dizziness. All others remained well without any side effects. No participants showed significant changes in their blood test results, except that the T-lymphocyte CD4/CD8 ratio increased significantly from 1.31 +/- 0.50 (mean +/- SD) on day 0 to 1.41 +/- 0.63 on day 15 (p < 0.02), and reduced to 1.32 +/- 0.47 on day 29 (p < 0.05). In the control study, there were no changes in the CD4/CD8 ratio. The transient increase in CD4/CD8 ratio was likely due to the TCM intake. We postulate that the administration of the innovative TCM may have beneficial immunomodulatory effects for preventing viral infections including SARS.
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Affiliation(s)
- P M K Poon
- Department of Chemical Pathology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong, China
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29
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Lee SKW, Wong CK, Sung RYT, Leung TF, Fung KP, Leung PC, Lam CWK. In vitro anti-allergic activities of a newly concocted traditional Chinese medicine--the wheeze-relief formula. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2006; 103:406-12. [PMID: 16169693 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2005.08.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2005] [Revised: 08/09/2005] [Accepted: 08/16/2005] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Asthma is one of the most common chronic diseases worldwide. Western medications such as glucocorticoids are effective therapeutic agents but may be associated with side effects. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has been used for treating allergic diseases with observable clinical benefits. The present study investigated whether a novel TCM concoction, the wheeze-relief formula (WRF), possesses in vitro anti-allergic activities. We measured the effects of WRF on the release of eosinophil cationic protein (ECP) by human eosinophils using fluorescence enzyme immunoassay, expression of chemokine receptor CCR3 and adhesion molecule CD49d on eosinophils using immunophenotyping, cytokine induction from peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) using cytometric bead array (CBA), and the gene expression of cytokines and cytokine receptors using cDNA expression array. Results demonstrated that WRF dose-dependently and significantly: (1) suppressed ECP release from eosinophils activated with granulocyte macrophage-colony stimulating factor (GM-CSF) and platelet activating factor (PAF); (2) inhibited the expression of CCR3 and CD49d on PAF-activated eosinophils; and (3) attenuated the production of tumor necrosis factor alpha and gene expression of IL-2 receptor chain alpha (CD25) on house dust mite (Der p 1) activated PBMC. The above results suggest a possible anti-allergic role of WRF and provide a biochemical basis for further clinical trial on human subjects.
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Affiliation(s)
- S K W Lee
- Department of Chemical Pathology, the Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, Hong Kong
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30
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Lit LCW, Wong CK, Tam LS, Li EKM, Lam CWK. Raised plasma concentration and ex vivo production of inflammatory chemokines in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus. Ann Rheum Dis 2005; 65:209-15. [PMID: 15975968 PMCID: PMC1798029 DOI: 10.1136/ard.2005.038315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 140] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chemokines are involved in leucocyte chemotaxis. Infiltrating leucocytes play an important role of tissue injury in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). OBJECTIVE To investigate the role of inflammatory chemokines and their association with interleukin 18 (IL18) in SLE pathogenesis and disease activity. METHODS Plasma concentrations and ex vivo peripheral blood mononuclear cell production of inflammatory chemokines IP-10, RANTES, MIG, MCP-1, TARC, IL8, and GROalpha, and proinflammatory cytokines IL18, IFNgamma, IL2, IL4, and IL10 were assayed in 80 SLE patients with or without renal disease and 40 healthy controls by immunofluorescence flow cytometry and enzyme linked immunosorbent assay. RESULTS Plasma IP10, RANTES, MIG, MCP-1, GROalpha, and IL18 concentrations in all SLE patients were higher than in controls, and correlated significantly with SLEDAI score (all p<0.05). In SLE patients without renal disease, IP10, RANTES, MIG, MCP-1, IL8, and IL18 correlated positively with SLEDAI score, while in those with renal derangement, IP10, IL8, IL10, and IL18 correlated with disease activity (all p<0.05). Plasma IL18 concentration correlated positively with IP10, MIG, GROalpha, and IL8 in all SLE patients (all p<0.005). Mitogen induced increases in ex vivo production of IP10, MCP-1, TARC, IFNgamma, IL4, and IL10 were higher in all SLE patients regardless of their difference in disease activity (all p<0.05). Patients with renal disease had an augmented ex vivo release of RANTES. CONCLUSIONS The correlation of raised plasma concentration and ex vivo production of inflammatory chemokines with disease activity, and their association with IL18, supports the view that chemotaxis of Th1/Th2 lymphocytes and neutrophils is important in SLE pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- L C W Lit
- Department of Chemical Pathology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, Hong Kong
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Wong CK, Lit LCW, Tam LS, Li EK, Lam CWK. Aberrant production of soluble costimulatory molecules CTLA-4, CD28, CD80 and CD86 in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2005; 44:989-94. [PMID: 15870153 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/keh663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The costimulatory interactions of the B7 family molecules CD80 and CD86 on antigen-presenting cells with their T-cell counter-receptors CD28 and CTLA-4 modulate T lymphocyte-mediated immune responses in a reciprocal manner. We investigated the possible aberrant production of soluble (s) forms of the T-cell costimulatory molecules CD80, CD86, CD28 and CTLA-4 in plasma of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), an autoimmune disease arising from T-lymphocyte dysregulation. METHODS Plasma concentration and ex vivo production of soluble costimulatory molecules of 79 SLE patients with or without active disease and 40 sex- and age-matched healthy subjects were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. RESULTS Plasma sCTLA-4, sCD28, sCD80 and sCD86 concentrations of all SLE patients were significantly higher than concentrations in control subjects (all P<0.01). These increases were observed even in patients with inactive disease [SLE Disease Activity Index (SLEDAI) <3]. Plasma sCTLA-4 concentration in all SLE patients correlated significantly with SLEDAI score (r = 0.228, P = 0.043). Upon mitogen treatment of peripheral blood mononuclear cells, the percentage increases in ex vivo production of sCD28 and sCD80 and the percentage decrease in sCTLA-4 release were all significantly smaller in SLE patients with active disease than in healthy subjects (P<0.01, P<0.05 and P<0.0001, respectively). CONCLUSION The aberrant production of soluble T-cell costimulatory molecules is important in the immunopathogenesis of SLE, which occurs by the dysregulation of T-lymphocyte costimulation. Plasma sCTLA concentration could potentially serve as a surrogate marker of SLE disease activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- C K Wong
- Department of Chemical Pathology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, Hong Kong
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Wong CK, Lit LCW, Tam LS, Li EK, Lam CWK. Elevation of plasma osteopontin concentration is correlated with disease activity in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2005; 44:602-6. [PMID: 15705633 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/keh558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Osteopontin (OPN) is an extracellular matrix cell adhesion phosphoprotein with immunological activities including stimulation of macrophage chemotaxis, T-helper type 1 lymphocyte response and B-cell antibody synthesis. Overexpression of OPN has been associated with the development of the autoimmune/lymphoproliferative syndrome. METHODS We measured the plasma concentration and ex vivo production of OPN, and the plasma proinflammatory IL-18 concentration in 54 SLE patients with or without renal impairment (RSLE group and SLE group, respectively) and 26 sex- and age-matched control (NC) subjects using an enzyme-linked immunoabsorbent assay. RESULTS Plasma OPN concentrations were significantly higher in RSLE and SLE patients than in the NC group (both P<0.001). Increase in OPN concentration correlated positively and significantly with SLEDAI score in all SLE patients (r = 0.308, P = 0.023). The ex vivo production of OPN upon mitogen activation of peripheral blood mononuclear cells was significantly higher in the RSLE and SLE groups than in the NC group (both P<0.001). In RSLE patients, plasma OPN concentration showed a significant positive correlation with proinflammatory cytokine IL-18 concentration (r = 0.404, P = 0.037). CONCLUSION The above results suggest that the production of OPN is associated with the inflammatory process and SLE development, and may serve as a potential disease marker of SLE.
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Affiliation(s)
- C K Wong
- Department of Chemical Pathology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, Hong Kong
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Ho CY, Lau CBS, Kim CF, Leung KN, Fung KP, Tse TF, Chan HHL, Chow MSS. Differential effect of Coriolus versicolor (Yunzhi) extract on cytokine production by murine lymphocytes in vitro. Int Immunopharmacol 2004; 4:1549-57. [PMID: 15351324 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2004.07.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2004] [Accepted: 07/19/2004] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Being one of the commonly used Chinese medicinal herbs, Coriolus versicolor (CV), also named as Yunzhi, was known to possess both anti-tumor and immunopotentiating activities. The present study aimed to investigate the in vitro immunomodulatory effect of a standardized ethanol-water extract prepared from CV on the proliferation of murine splenic lymphocytes using the MTT assay, and the production of six T helper (Th)-related cytokines using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) technique. The results showed that the CV extract significantly augmented the proliferation of murine splenic lymphocytes in a time- and dose-dependent manner, maximally by 2.4-fold. Moreover, the production of two Th1-related cytokines, including interleukin (IL)-2 and IL-12, in culture supernatants from the CV extract-activated lymphocytes was prominently upregulated at 48 and 72 h. Positive correlations were found between the levels of these two cytokines and the MTT-based proliferative response. In contrast, the production of two other Th1-related cytokines, including interferon (IFN)-gamma and IL-18, was significantly augmented only at 24 h, but not at 48 and 72 h. On the other hand, the levels of two Th2-related cytokines such as IL-4 and IL-6 were undetectable in the culture supernatants of lymphocytes treated with the CV extract. The CV extract was suggested to be a lymphocyte mitogen by differentially enhancing the production of Th1-related cytokines.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Y Ho
- School of Pharmacy, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong, China
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