Cerebroprotective effect of Korean ginseng tea against global and focal models of ischemia in rats

Synergistic effect of chrysin and kaempferol in ameliorating Cerebral Ischemic Reperfusion injury in rat by controlling expression of proinflammatory mediators NF-κB and STAT3

OBJECTIVES

The two flavonoids kaempferol and chrysin are known to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities. In addition, these two flavonoids were reported to display synergistic effects against inflammation. The present study aims to provide an analysis of the combined effects of kaempferol and chrysin on ischemic rat brain induced by endothelin-1.

METHODS

The neurological deficit score and infarct area of the brain were determined post drug treatment. Histopathological sections displayed the morphological changes in the brain tissue. The brain tissues were processed for assessing the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity by measuring superoxide dismutase activity, catalase activity, level of reduced glutathione, brain malondialdehyde, and amount of calcium. The expression level of inflammatory molecules was analyzed by western blotting and immunohistochemistry.

RESULTS

The infarct area, neurological score and NF-κB and STAT3 expression levels were significantly reduced.

DISCUSSION

The analysis of neuroprotective synergistic activity of kaempferol and chrysin indicated the therapeutic potential of the combination in alleviating cerebral ischemia by controlling expression of proinflammatory mediators.

A Review of Neuroprotective Effects and Mechanisms of Ginsenosides From Panax Ginseng in Treating Ischemic Stroke

Ischemic stroke has been considered one of the leading causes of mortality and disability worldwide, associated with a series of complex pathophysiological processes. However, effective therapeutic methods for ischemic stroke are still limited. Panax ginseng, a valuable traditional Chinese medicine, has been long used in eastern countries for various diseases. Ginsenosides, the main active ingredient of Panax ginseng, has demonstrated neuroprotective effects on ischemic stroke injury during the last decade. In this article, we summarized the pathophysiology of ischemic stroke and reviewed the literature on ginsenosides studies in preclinical and clinical ischemic stroke. Available findings showed that both major ginsenosides and minor ginsenosides (such as Rg3, Rg5, and Rh2) has a potential neuroprotective effect, mainly through attenuating the excitotoxicity, Ca²⁺ overload, mitochondria dysfunction, blood-brain barrier (BBB) permeability, anti-inflammation, anti-oxidative, anti-apoptosis, anti-pyroptosis, anti-autophagy, improving angiogenesis, and neurogenesis. Therefore, this review brings a current understanding of the mechanisms of ginsenosides in the treatment of ischemic stroke. Further studies, especially in clinical trials, will be important to confirm the clinical value of ginseng and ginsenosides.

DK-MGAR101, an extract of adventitious roots of mountain ginseng, improves blood circulation by inhibiting endothelial cell injury, platelet aggregation, and thrombus formation

Background

Since ginsenosides exert an anti-thrombotic activity, blood flow-improving effects of DK-MGAR101, an extract of mountain ginseng adventitious roots (MGAR) containing various ginsenosides, were investigated in comparison with an extract of Korean Red Ginseng (ERG).

Methods

In Sprague-Dawley rats orally administered with DK-MGAR101 or ERG, oxidative carotid arterial thrombosis was induced with FeCl₃ (35%), and their blood flow and occlusion time were measured. To elucidate underlying mechanisms, the cytoprotective activities on rat aortic endothelial cells (RAOECs) exposed to hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) were confirmed. In addition, the inhibitory activities of DK-MGAR101 and ERG on agonist-induced platelet aggregation, thromboxane B₂ production, and ATP granule release from stimulated platelets as well as blood coagulation were analyzed.

Results

DK-MGAR101 containing high concentrations of Rb1, Rg1, Rg3, Rg5, and Rk1 ginsenosides (55.07 mg/g) was more effective than ERG (ginsenosides 8.45 mg/g) in protecting RAOECs against H₂O₂ cytotoxicity. DK-MGAR101 was superior to ERG not only in suppressing platelet aggregation, thromboxane B₂ production, and granule release, but also in delaying blood coagulation, FeCl₃-induced arterial occlusion, and thrombus formation.

Conclusions

The results indicate that DK-MGAR101 prevents blood vessel occlusion by suppressing platelet aggregation, thrombosis, and blood coagulation, in addition to endothelial cell injury.

Cerebroprotective effect of pterostilbene against global cerebral ischemia in rats

Aim of the study

The role of pterostilbene against induced neurobehavioral alterations in global cerebral ischemia-reperfusion and oxidative damage was studied.

Materials and methods

Male SD rats (180–200 g) were exposed for 30 min to bilateral carotid artery occlusion accompanied by 60 min reperfusion to cause cerebral injury. Pretreatment with pterostilbene (200 and 400 mg/kg, orally) was given to the animals for ten days followed by ischemia-reperfusion injury. Various behavioral tests (locomotor activity, neurological score, transfer latency, hanging wire test) were studied. The brain tissues of animals were used for both the biochemical parameters (lipid peroxidation, reduced glutathione, superoxide dismutase, catalase activity) and histopathological study.

Result

The pterostilbene as given orally significantly improved neurobehavioral alterations compared to control ischemia-reperfusion. Treatment with pterostilbene (200, and 400 mg/kg, orally) also significantly attenuated oxidative damage as indicated by reduced lipid peroxidation, nitrite concentration, restored reduced glutathione, and catalase activity as compared to control (ischemia-reperfusion) animals. Overall, pterostilbene treated animals showed non significant histological alteration as compared to ischemia-reperfusion control.

Conclusion

This work suggests the beneficial effect of pterostilbene and its therapeutic potential against reperfusion-induced ischemia and associated behavioral changes in rats due to the stabilization of DNA damage with significant free radical scavenging properties.

[Effect of hot water extract of Korean ginseng on neuroblastoma cell parthanatos]

OBJECTIVE

To explore the effect of pretreatment of neuroblastoma cells with hot water extract of Korean ginseng on MNNG-induced parthanatos and its mechanism.

METHODS

Neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells were pretreated with 1 mg/L hot water extract of Korean ginseng before induction with 250 μmol/L MNNG for 1 h or 4 h. CCK-8 and cell flow cytometry were used to detect cell survival rate. Western blotting was used to detect the changes in poly(ADP-ribose) (PAR) expression in the treated cells. Immunofluorescence assay was used to detect nuclear distribution of apoptosis-inducing factor (AIF), and flow cytometry was used to detect the level of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the cells.

RESULTS

Compared with the blank control cells, MNNG-treated SH-SY5Y cells showed significantly decreased survival rate as the concentration of MNNG and the stimulation time increased (P < 0.05). Stimulation with MNNG also resulted in significantly increased expression of PAR protein in the cells (P < 0.05). Pretreatment of the cells with hot water extract of Korean ginseng obviously inhibited MNNG-induced cell death and significantly reduced AIF expression and nucleation in the cells (P < 0.05). MNNG stimulation significantly increased ROS level in the cells, which was decreased significantly by pretreatment of the cells with the extract (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Pretreatment with hot water extract of Korean ginseng reduces MNNG-induced parthanatos and ROS production in SH-SY5Y cells.

Protective effect of Yemeni green coffee powder against the oxidative stress induced by Ochratoxin A

The current study focusses on knowing the antioxidant effects of green Yemeni coffee powder on reducing the oxidative stress that was induced by Ochratoxin A in kidney, liver and brain of rats. The grouping of female albino Wistar rats was into 5 groups (5 rats/group). Rats of Group 1 designated Vehicle Control (only water), Group2 (10 mg/kg Ochratoxin A); Group 3 designated Low dose (2000 mg/kg Coffee+10 mg/kg Ochratoxin A); Group 4 designated High dose (4000 mg/kg Coffee+10 mg/kg Ochratoxin A); Group 5 designated Coffee Control (1000 mg/kg Coffee) and orally administered with the above test materials repeatedly every day for 28 days. On termination of the study, liver, brain and kidney tissues were collected after dissection, oxidative stress biomarkers (Levels of Lipid Peroxidation and Reduced Glutathione, activities Superoxide Dismutase, Catalase and Glutathione Reductase enzymes) and histopathological studies were carried out. Treatment of Ochratoxin A alone (group 2 rats) significantly increased malondialdehyde content, catalase, and glutathione reductase activities with a decrease in the activity of superoxide dismutase enzyme and reduced glutathione level and in brain, kidney and liver. Whereas, low dose coffee (group 3) and high dose coffee (group 4) rats showed dose-dependent increase in antioxidant and less histopathological alterations. Concomitant treatment of Yemeni green coffee powder and Ochratoxin A brought dose-dependent protective effects against oxidative stress which was induced using Ochratoxin A in liver, brain, and kidney tissues of female rats.

Cerebral microvascular dysfunction in metabolic syndrome is exacerbated by ischemia-reperfusion injury

Background

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is associated with an increased risk of cerebrovascular diseases, including cerebral ischemia. Microvascular dysfunction is an important feature underlying the pathophysiology of cerebrovascular diseases. In this study, we aimed to investigate the impacts of ischemia and reperfusion (IR) injury on the cerebral microvascular function of rats with high-fat diet-induced MetS.

Results

We examined Wistar rats fed a high-fat diet (HFD) or normal diet (CTL) for 20 weeks underwent 30 min of bilateral carotid artery occlusion followed by 1 h of reperfusion (IR) or sham surgery. Microvascular blood flow was evaluated on the parietal cortex surface through a cranial window by laser speckle contrast imaging, functional capillary density, endothelial function and endothelial–leukocyte interactions by intravital videomicroscopy. Lipid peroxidation was assessed by TBARs analysis, the expression of oxidative enzymes and inflammatory markers in the brain tissue was analyzed by real-time PCR. The cerebral IR in MetS animals induced a functional capillary rarefaction (HFD IR 117 ± 17 vs. CTL IR 224 ± 35 capillary/mm²; p < 0.05), blunted the endothelial response to acetylcholine (HFD IR −16.93% vs. CTL IR 16.19% from baseline inner diameter p < 0.05) and increased the endothelial–leukocyte interactions in the venules in the brain. The impact of ischemia on the cerebral microvascular blood flow was worsened in MetS animals, with a marked reduction of cerebral blood flow, exposing brain tissue to a higher state of hypoxia.

Conclusions

Our results demonstrate that during ischemia and reperfusion, animals with MetS are more susceptible to alterations in the cerebral microcirculation involving endothelial dysfunction and oxidative stress events.

Blood flow-improving activity of methyl jasmonate-treated adventitious roots of mountain ginseng

Ginsenosides from Panax ginseng are well known for their diverse pharmacological effects including antithrombotic activity. Since adventitious roots of mountain ginseng (ARMG) also contain various ginsenosides, blood flow-improving effects of the dried powder and extract of ARMG were investigated. Rats were orally administered with dried powder (PARMG) or ethanol extract (EARMG) of ARMG (125, 250 or 500 mg/kg) or aspirin (30 mg/kg, a reference control) for 3 weeks. Forty min after the final administration, carotid arterial thrombosis was induced by applying a 70% FeCl3-soaked filter paper outside the arterial wall for 5 min, and the blood flow was monitored with a laser Doppler probe. Both PARMG and EARMG delayed the FeCl3-induced arterial occlusion in a dose-dependent manner, doubling the occlusion time at high doses. In mechanism studies, a high concentration of EARMG inhibited platelet aggregation induced by collagen in vitro. In addition, EARMG improved the blood lipid profiles, decreasing triglyceride and cholesterol levels. Although additional action mechanisms remain to be clarified, it is suggested that ARMG containing high amount of ginsenosides such as Rg3 improves blood flow not only by inhibiting oxidative thrombosis, but also by modifying blood lipid profiles.

Protective effect of ethyl acetate fraction of Biophytum sensitivum extract against sodium oxalate-induced urolithiasis in rats

The methanolic whole plant extract of Biophytum sensitivum (感应草gǎnyìng cǎo) has been found to possess antiurolithiatic effect. The present study was undertaken to evaluate the antiurolithiatic effect of some fractions of methanolic whole plant extract of B. sensitivum (MBS) in rats as a step toward activity-directed isolation of antiurolithiatic component. The MBS was successively extracted with dichloromethane, ethyl acetate, ethanol and water to obtain fractions. Sodium oxalate (70 mg/kg, i.p.) was administered to rats for seven days to develop calcium oxalate urolithiasis. These rats were treated with two doses (20 and 40 mg/kg, p.o.) of the fractions, 1 h before sodium oxalate injections. Antiurolithiatic activity was assessed by estimating biochemical changes in urine, serum and kidney homogenate along with histological changes in kidney tissue. Sodium oxalate administration caused biochemical alterations in urine which was found to be prevented significantly by the ethyl acetate fraction. Supplementation with ethyl acetate fraction prevented the elevation of serum creatinine, uric acid and blood urea nitrogen levels. The elevated calcium, oxalate and phosphate levels in the kidney tissue homogenate of lithiatic rats were significantly reduced by the treatment with ethyl acetate fraction. The ethyl acetate fraction also caused significant decrease in lipid peroxidation activity, accumulation of calcium oxalate deposits and histological changes in the kidney tissue. The results showed that the antiurolithiatic component of the methanolic whole plant extract of the plant is contained in the ethyl acetate fraction. The effect is attributed to its diuretic, antioxidant, nephroprotective properties and effect on lowering the concentration of urinary stone-forming constituents.

Phytochemicals in Ischemic Stroke

Stroke is the second foremost cause of mortality worldwide and a major cause of long-term disability. Due to changes in lifestyle and an aging population, the incidence of stroke continues to increase and stroke mortality predicted to exceed 12 % by the year 2030. However, the development of pharmacological treatments for stroke has failed to progress much in over 20 years since the introduction of the thrombolytic drug, recombinant tissue plasminogen activator. These alarming circumstances caused many research groups to search for alternative treatments in the form of neuroprotectants. Here, we consider the potential use of phytochemicals in the treatment of stroke. Their historical use in traditional medicine and their excellent safety profile make phytochemicals attractive for the development of therapeutics in human diseases. Emerging findings suggest that some phytochemicals have the ability to target multiple pathophysiological processes involved in stroke including oxidative stress, inflammation and apoptotic cell death. Furthermore, epidemiological studies suggest that the consumption of plant sources rich in phytochemicals may reduce stroke risk, and so reinforce the possibility of developing preventative or neuroprotectant therapies for stroke. In this review, we describe results of preclinical studies that demonstrate beneficial effects of phytochemicals in experimental models relevant to stroke pathogenesis, and we consider their possible mechanisms of action.

Antidepressant-like effects of Sanyuansan in the mouse forced swim test, tail suspension test, and chronic mild stress model

Natural products have been widely reported as effective therapeutic alternatives for treatment of depression. Sanyuansan is a compound recipe composed of ginseng total saponins, fish oil, and valeriana. The aims of this study were to validate whether Sanyuansan has antidepressant-like effects through acute behavioral tests including the forced swimming test (FST), tail suspension test (TST), locomotor activity test, and chronic mild stress (CMS) mice model of depression. C57BL/6 mice were given oral administration of 30 mg/kg imipramine, Sanyuansan, and saline, respectively. The acute behavioral tests including the TST, FST, and locomotor activity test were done after the administration of drugs for consecutively three times (24 hours, 1 hour, and 0.5 hour prior to the tests). Furthermore, the sucrose preference and the serum corticosterone level of mice in the CMS model were examined. Sanyuansan only at 900 mg/kg markedly reduced immobility time in the TST compared with the saline-treated group of mice. Sanyuansan at doses of 225 mg/kg, 450 mg/kg, and 900 mg/kg significantly reduced immobility time of mice in the FST. Sanyuansan reversed the CMS-induced anhedonia and hyperactivation of the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis. In addition, our results showed that neither imipramine nor Sanyuansan at any dosage increased spontaneous motor activity. These results suggested that Sanyuansan induced significant antidepressant-like effects in mice in both acute and chronic animal models, which seemed unlikely to be attributed to an increase in locomotor activities of mice, and had no sedative-like effects.

Role of the Red Ginseng in Defense against the Environmental Heat Stress in Sprague Dawley Rats

Global temperature change causes heat stress related disorders in humans. A constituent of red ginseng has been known the beneficial effect on the resistance to many diseases. However, the mechanism of red ginseng (RG) against heat stress still remains unclear. To determine the effect of RG on heat stress, we examined the effect of the RG on the gene expression profiles in rats subjected to environmental heat stress. We evaluated the transcripts associated with hepatic lipid accumulation and oxidative stress in rats subjected to heat stress. We also analyzed the reactive oxygen species (ROS) contents. Our results suggested RG inhibited heat stress mediated altering mRNA expressions include HSPA1, DEAF1, HMGCR, and FMO1. We also determined RG attenuated fat accumulation in the liver by altering C/EBPβ expression. RG promoted to repress the heat stress mediated hepatic cell death by inhibiting of Bcl-2 expression in rats subjected to heat stress. Moreover, RG administered group during heat stress dramatically decreased the malondialdehyde (MDA) contents and ROS associated genes compared with the control group. Thus, we suggest that RG might influence inhibitory effect on environmental heat stress induced abnormal conditions in humans.

Protective effect of Korean Red Ginseng against glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis in vitro and in vivo

Background

Glucocorticoids (GCs) are commonly used in many chemotherapeutic protocols and play an important role in the normal regulation of bone remodeling. However, the prolonged use of GCs results in osteoporosis, which is partially due to apoptosis of osteoblasts and osteocytes. In this study, effects of Korean Red Ginseng (KRG) on GC-treated murine osteoblastic MC3T3-E1 cells and a GC-induced osteoporosis mouse model were investigated.

Methods

MC3T3-E1 cells were exposed to dexamethasone (Dex) with or without KRG and cell viability was measured by the 3-(4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2, 5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. Real-time polymerase chain reaction was performed to evaluate the apoptotic gene expression; osteogenic gene expression and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity were also measured. Western blotting was performed to evaluate the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) proteins. A GC-induced osteoporosis animal model was used for in vivo study.

Results and conclusion

The MTT assay revealed that Korean Red Ginseng (KRG) prevents loss of cell viability caused by Dex-induced apoptosis in MC3T3E1 cells. Real-time polymerase chain reaction data showed that groups treated with both Dex and KRG exhibited lower mRNA levels of caspase-3 and -9, whereas the mRNA levels of Bcl2, IAPs, and XIAP increased. Moreover, groups treated with both Dex and KRG demonstrated increased mRNA levels of ALP, RUNX2, and bone morphogenic proteins as well as increased ALP activity in MC3T3-E1 cells, compared to cells treated with Dex only. In addition, KRG increased protein kinase B (AKT) phosphorylation and decreased c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) phosphorylation. Moreover, microcomputed tomography analysis of the femurs showed that GC implantation caused trabecular bone loss. However, a significant reduction of bone loss was observed in the KRG-treated group. These results suggest that the molecular mechanism of KRG in the GC-induced apoptosis may lead to the development of therapeutic strategies to prevent and/or delay osteoporosis.

Evaluation for the anti-urolithiatic activity of Launaea procumbens against ethylene glycol-induced renal calculi in rats

Launaea procumbens Linn. is a plant commonly found in the west India and has been reported to decrease the renal calculi. This study investigated the anti-urolithiatic activity of L. procumbens against ethylene glycol-induced urolithiasis and its possible underlying mechanisms. The crude methanolic extract of L. procumbens leaves was studied using ethylene glycol-induced renal calculi in rat model. Results indicate that ethylene glycol feeding to rats resulted in to hyper oxaluria, hypercalciuria, as well as increased renal excretion of phosphate. Supplementation with methanolic extract of L. procumbens leaves (MELP) significantly prevented changes in urinary calcium, oxalate and phosphate excretion dose-dependently. The increased calcium and oxalate level and number of calcium oxalate crystal in the kidney tissue of calculogenic rats were significantly reverted by supplementation with MELP. The MELP supplementation also prevents the impairment of renal functions. The mechanism underlying this effect is mediated possibly through antioxidant nephroprotection and its effect on urinary concentration of stone forming constituents and risk factor.

Conclusion

These results indicate that methanolic extracts of L. procumbens leaves are effective against the urolithiasis.

Total flavonoid of Litsea coreana leve exerts anti-oxidative effects and alleviates focal cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury

In this study, we hypothesized that total flavonoid of Litsea coreana leve (TFLC) protects against focal cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury. TFLC (25, 50, 100 mg/kg) was administered orally to a rat model of focal ischemia/reperfusion injury, while the free radical scavenging agent, edaravone, was used as a positive control drug. Results of neurological deficit scoring, 2,3,5-triphenyl tetrazolium chloride staining, hematoxylin-eosin staining and biochemical tests showed that TFLC at different doses significantly alleviated cerebral ischemia-induced neurological deficits and histopathological changes, and reduced infarct volume. Moreover, it suppressed the increase in the levels of nitrates plus nitrites, malondialdehyde and lactate dehydrogenase, and it diminished the reduction in gluta-thione, superoxide dismutase and catalase activities induced by cerebral ischemia/reperfusion in-jury. Compared with edaravone, the protective effects of TFLC at low and medium doses (25, 50 mg/kg) against cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury were weaker, while the protective effects at high dose (100 mg/kg) were similar. Our experimental findings suggest that TFLC exerts neuroprotective effects against focal cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury in rats, and that the effects may be asso-ciated with its antioxidant activities.

The efficacy of red ginseng in type 1 and type 2 diabetes in animals

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is one of the most modern chronic metabolic diseases in the world. Moreover, DM is one of the major causes of modern neurological diseases. In the present study, the therapeutic actions of Korean red ginseng were evaluated in type 1 and type 2 diabetic mouse models using auditory electrophysiological measurement. The comprehensive results from auditory brainstem response (ABR), auditory middle latency response (AMLR), and transient evoked otoacoustic emission (TEOAE) demonstrate auditory functional damage caused by type 1 or 2 DM. Korean red ginseng improved the hearing threshold shift, delayed latencies and signal intensity decrease in type 2 diabetic mice. Type 1 diabetic mice showed a partial improvement in decreasing amplitude and signal intensity, not significantly. We suggest that the Korean red ginseng has a more potent efficacy in hearing loss in insulin resistance type 2 diabetes than in type 1 diabetes.

Neuroprotective activity of gossypin from Hibiscus vitifolius against global cerebral ischemia model in rats

OBJECTIVES

The objective of this study is to evaluate the neuroprotective effect of gossypin (isolated from Hibiscus vitifolius) against global cerebral ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury-induced oxidative stress in rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Sprague Dawlet rats of wither gender were used in the study. Evaluation of cerbroprotective activity of bioflavonoid gossypin (in 5, 10 and 20 mg/kg oral doses) isolated from H. vitifolius was carried out by using the global cerebral I/R model by bilateral carotid artery occlusion for 30 min, followed by 24 h reperfusion. The antioxidant enzymatic and non-enzymatic levels were estimated along with histopathological studies.

RESULT

Gossypin showed dose-dependent neuroprotective activity by significant decrease in lipid peroxidation (P < 0.001) and increase in the superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione and total thiol levels in gossypin treated groups when compared to control group. Cerebral infarction area was markedly reduced in gossypin treated groups when compared to control group.

CONCLUSION

Gossypin showed potent neuroprotective activity against global cerebral I/R injury-induced oxidative stress in rats.

A comprehensive review of the therapeutic and pharmacological effects of ginseng and ginsenosides in central nervous system

Ginseng is one of the most widely used herbal medicines in human. Central nervous system (CNS) diseases are most widely investigated diseases among all others in respect to the ginseng’s therapeutic effects. These include Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, cerebral ischemia, depression, and many other neurological disorders including neurodevelopmental disorders. Not only the various types of diseases but also the diverse array of target pathways or molecules ginseng exerts its effect on. These range, for example, from neuroprotection to the regulation of synaptic plasticity and from regulation of neuroinflammatory processes to the regulation of neurotransmitter release, too many to mention. In general, ginseng and even a single compound of ginsenoside produce its effects on multiple sites of action, which make it an ideal candidate to develop multi-target drugs. This is most important in CNS diseases where multiple of etiological and pathological targets working together to regulate the final pathophysiology of diseases. In this review, we tried to provide comprehensive information on the pharmacological and therapeutic effects of ginseng and ginsenosides on neurodegenerative and other neurological diseases. Side by side comparison of the therapeutic effects in various neurological disorders may widen our understanding of the therapeutic potential of ginseng in CNS diseases and the possibility to develop not only symptomatic drugs but also disease modifying reagents based on ginseng.

Cerebroprotective effects of red ginseng extract pretreatment against ischemia-induced oxidative stress and apoptosis

Panax ginseng C.A. Meyer has been traditionally used as a medicinal plant and has beneficial effects due to pharmacological properties. Although ginseng is thought to be protective under abnormal conditions, the effects of pretreatment with red ginseng (RG) extract on ischemic stroke have not been fully elucidated. We investigated the protective effects of RG extract after focal cerebral ischemia in mice. Crude RG extract (360 mg/kg) was administered intraperitoneally for 2 weeks. Mice were then subjected to occlusion of the middle cerebral artery for 1 hour, followed by reperfusion for 4 and 24 hours. Pretreatment with RG extract followed by ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) resulted in significant reduction of oxidized hydroethidine signals in ischemic areas. At 4 and 24 hours after I/R, the number of 8-hydroxyguanosine and apoptosis signal-regulating kinase 1 (ASK1)-positive cells decreased in the ischemic penumbra as seen using immunofluorescent staining. Western blotting showed that RG efficiently attenuated the protein levels of activated ASK1 in the ischemic penumbra. Consequently, DNA fragmentation and the infarct volume were reduced by RG extract pretreatment 24 hours after I/R. Also, RG extract resulted in better performance in rotarod test after I/R. Thus, RG pretreatment demonstrates a protective effect at suppressing ischemia-induced oxidative stress and apoptosis in ischemic lesions. Pretreatment with crude RG extract may be an effective strategy for preventing brain injury after an ischemic stroke.

Korean Red Ginseng Extract Attenuates 3-Nitropropionic Acid-Induced Huntington's-Like Symptoms

Korean red ginseng (KRG) possesses neuroprotective activity. However, the potential neuroprotective value of KRG for the striatal toxicity is largely unknown. We investigated whether KRG extract (KRGE) could have a neuroprotective effect in a 3-nitropropionic acid- (3-NP) induced (i.p.) Huntington's disease (HD) model. KRGE (50, 100, and 250 mg/kg/day, p.o.) was administrated 10 days before 3-NP injection (pre-administration), from the same time with 3-NP injection (co-administration), or from the peak point of neurological impairment by 3-NP injection (post-administration). Pre-administration of KRGE produced the greatest neuroprotective effect in this model. Pre-administration of KRGE significantly decreased 3-NP-induced neurological impairment, lethality, lesion area, and neuronal loss in the 3-NP-injected striatum. KRGE attenuated microglial activation and phosphorylation of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) and nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) signal pathway. KRGE also reduced the level of mRNA expression of tumor necrosis factor-alpha, interleukin- (IL-) 1β, IL-6, inducible nitric oxide synthase, and OX-42. Interestingly, the intrathecal administration of SB203580 (a p38 inhibitor) or PD98059 (an inhibitor of MAPK Kinase, MEK) increased the survival rate in the 3-NP-induced HD model. Pre-administration of KRGE may effectively inhibit 3-NP-induced striatal toxicity via the inhibition of the phosphorylation of MAPKs and NF-κB pathways, indicating its therapeutic potential for suppressing Huntington's-like symptoms.

Neuroprotective activityof Cymbopogon martinii against cerebral ischemia/reperfusion-induced oxidative stress in rats

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Cymbopogon martinii (Roxb.) Watson (Family: Graminae), commonly known as Palmarosa, is traditionally prescribed for central nervous system (CNS) disorders such as neuralgia, epileptic fits and anorexia. Although the plant possesses diverse pharmacological actions, the neuroprotective action has got little attention.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The present study evaluated neuroprotective effect of essential oil of Cymbopogon martinii (EOCM) against global cerebral ischemia/reperfusion (I/R)-induced oxidative stress in rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Global ischemic brain damage was induced by bilateral common carotid artery (BCCA) occlusion for 30 min, followed by 60 min reperfusion on Wistar albino rats. The biochemical levels of lipid peroxidation (LPO), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), total thiols and glutathione (GSH) were estimated and brain coronal sections and histopathological studies were performed.

RESULTS

BCCA occlusion, followed by reperfusion caused varied biochemical/enzymatic alterations viz. increase in LPO and decrease in SOD, CAT, total thiols and GSH. The prior treatment of EOCM (50 mg/kg and 100 mg/kg, p.o. for 10 days) markedly reversed these changes and restored to normal levels as compared to I/R groups. Moreover, brain coronal sections and histopathological studies revealed protection against ischemic brain damage in the EOCM-treated groups.

CONCLUSION

This study, for the first time, shows potent neuroprotective effect of EOCM against global cerebral I/R-induced oxidative stress in rats, suggesting its therapeutic potential in cerebrovascular diseases (CVD) including stroke.

Korean red ginseng protects against neuronal damage induced by transient focal ischemia in rats

In the present study, we investigated the neuroprotective effect of Korean red ginseng (KRG) following focal brain ischemia/reperfusion injury, in relation to its antioxidant activities. The middle cerebral artery occlusion/reperfusion (MCAO/R) model in rats was employed. The KRG extract (100 mg/kg, perorally) was administered once daily for 7 days following MCAO/R. The elevated levels of lipid peroxidation in the MCAO/R group were attenuated significantly in the KRG-administered group. The significantly depleted activity of the antioxidant enzymes glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase and catalase was prevented in the KRG-administered group. In the neurobehavioral evaluation expressed as the modified neurological severity score and corner-turn test, the daily intake of KRG showed consistent and significant improvement in the neurological deficits for 7 days following MCAO/R injury. These results indicate that KRG has a neuroprotective effect against ischemia/reperfusion brain injury by reducing the level of lipid peroxidation and increasing the endogenous antioxidant enzymatic activity.

Inhibition of sevoflurane postconditioning against cerebral ischemia reperfusion-induced oxidative injury in rats

The volatile anesthetic sevoflurane is capable of inducing preconditioning and postconditioning effects in the brain. In this study, we investigated the effects of sevoflurane postconditioning on antioxidant and immunity indexes in cerebral ischemia reperfusion (CIR) rats. Rats were randomly assigned to five separate experimental groups I–V. In the sham group (I), rats were subjected to the same surgery procedures except for occlusion of the middle cerebral artery and exposed to 1.0 MAC sevoflurane 90 min after surgery for 30 min. IR control rats (group II) were subjected to middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) for 90 min and exposed to O₂ for 30 min at the beginning of reperfusion. Sevoflurane 0.5, 1.0 and 1.5 groups (III, IV, V) were all subjected to MCAO for 90 min, but at the beginning of reperfusion exposed to 0.5 MAC, 1.0 MAC or 1.5 MAC sevoflurane for 30 min, respectively. Results showed that sevoflurane postconditioning can decrease serum tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), nitric oxide (NO), nitric oxide synthase (NOS) and increase serum interleukin-10 (IL-10) levels in cerebral ischemia reperfusion rats. In addition, sevoflurane postconditioning can still decrease blood lipid, malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, infarct volume and increase antioxidant enzymes activities, normal pyramidal neurons density in cerebral ischemia reperfusion rats. It can be concluded that sevoflurane postconditioning may decrease blood and brain oxidative injury and enhance immunity indexes in cerebral ischemia reperfusion rats.

Cerebroprotective activity of Wedelia calendulacea on global cerebral ischemia in rats

The present study was to investigate the effect of W. calendulacea on ischemia and reperfusion-induced cerebral injury. Cerebral ischemia was induced by occluding right and left common carotid arteries (global cerebral ischemia) for 30 min followed by reperfusion for 1 h and 4 h individually. Various biochemical alterations, produced subsequent to the application of bilateral carotid artery occlusion (BCAO) followed by reperfusion viz. increase in lipid peroxidation (LPO), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), and decrease in reduced glutathione (GSH), catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD), level in the brain tissue, Western blot analysis (Cu-Zn-SOD and CAT) and assessment of cerebral infarct size were measured. All those enzymes are markedly reversed and restored to near normal level in the groups pretreated with W. calendulacea (250 and 500 mg/kg given orally in single and double dose/day for 10 days) in dose-dependent way. The effect of W. calendulacea had increased significantly the protein expression of copper/zinc superoxide dismutase (Cu-Zn-SOD) and CAT in cerebral ischemia. W. claendulacea was markedly decrease cerebral infarct damages but results are not statistically significant. It can be concluded that W. calendulacea possesses a neuroprotective activity against cerebral ischemia in rat.

Inhibitory effect of rutin and curcumin on experimentally-induced calcium oxalate urolithiasis in rats

BACKGROUND

Renal epithelial cell injury by reactive oxygen species is pre-requisite step in the pathogenesis of urolithiasis. Rutin and curcumin are polyphenolic compounds known to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, but their effect on urolithiasis is yet to be elucidated. In the present study, we have investigated the inhibitory effect of rutin and curcumin on calcium oxalate urolithiasis in Wistar albino rats.

METHODS

Calcium oxalate urolithiasis was induced experimentally by administration of 0.75% v/v ethylene glycol with 1% w/v ammonium chloride in drinking water for three days followed by only 0.75% v/v ethylene glycol for 25 days. Rutin (20 mg/kg body weight) and curcumin (60 mg/kg body weight) were given once daily for 28 days by oral route. After treatment period, calcium and oxalate levels in urine and kidney tissue homogenate were measured. Kidney was also used for histopathological examination.

RESULTS

Stone-induction with ethylene glycol and ammonium chloride resulted in elevated levels of calcium and oxalate in the urine and kidney sample, whereas supplementation of rutin and curcumin restored it near to normal. Histopathological study revealed minimum tissue damage and less number of calcium oxalate deposits in kidney of animal treated with rutin and curcumin as compared to calculi-induced animal.

CONCLUSION

The data suggest that the rutin and curcumin inhibits calcium oxalate urolithiasis. This effect is mediated possibly through a lowering of urinary concentration of stone forming constituents, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.

The neuroprotective effect of methanol extract of gagamjungjihwan and fructus euodiae on ischemia-induced neuronal and cognitive impairment in the rat

Gagamjungjihwan (GJ), a decoction consisting of five herbs including ginseng, Acori Graminei Rhizoma, Uncariae Ramulus et Uncus, Polygalae Radic and Frustus Euodiae (FE), has been widely used as herbal treatment for ischemia. In order to investigate the neuroprotective action of this novel prescription, we examined the influence of GJ and FE on learning and memory using the Morris water maze and studied their affects on the central cholinergic system in the hippocampus with neuronal and cognitive impairment. After middle cerebral artery occlusion was applied for 2 h, rats were administered GJ (200 mg kg(-1), p.o.) or FE (200 mg kg(-1), p.o.) daily for 2 weeks, followed by training and performance of the Morris water maze tasks. Rats with ischemic insults showed impaired learning and memory of the tasks. Pre-treatment with GJ and FE produced improvement in the escape latency to find the platform. Pre-treatments with GJ and FE also reduced the loss of cholinergic immunoreactivity in the hippocampus. The results demonstrated that GJ and FE have a protective effect against ischemia-induced neuronal and cognitive impairment. Our results suggest that GJ and FE might be useful in the treatment of vascular dementia.

An antioxidant phytotherapy to rescue neuronal oxidative stress

Oxidative stress is involved in the pathogenesis of ischemic neuronal injury. A Chinese herbal formula composed of Poria cocos (Chinese name: Fu Ling), Atractylodes macrocephala (Chinese name: Bai Zhu) and Angelica sinensis (Chinese names: Danggui, Dong quai, Donggui; Korean name: Danggwi) (FBD), has been proved to be beneficial in the treatment of cerebral ischemia/reperfusion (I/R).This study was carried out to evaluate the protective effect of FBD against neuronal oxidative stress in vivo and in vitro. Rat I/R were established by middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) for 1 h, followed by 24 h reperfusion. MCAO led to significant depletion in superoxide dismutase and glutathione and rise in lipid peroxidation (LPO) and nitric oxide in brain. The neurological deficit and brain infarction were also significantly elevated by MCAO as compared with sham-operated group. All the brain oxidative stress and damage were significantly attenuated by 7 days pretreatment with the aqueous extract of FBD (250 mg kg(-1), p.o.). Moreover, cerebrospinal fluid sampled from FBD-pretreated rats protected PC12 cells against oxidative insult induced by 0.2 mM hydrogen peroxide, in a concentration and time-dependent manner (IC(50) 10.6%, ET(50) 1.2 h). However, aqueous extract of FBD just slightly scavenged superoxide anion radical generated in xanthine-xanthine oxidase system (IC(50) 2.4 mg ml(-1)) and hydroxyl radical generated in Fenton reaction system (IC(50) 3.6 mg ml(-1)). In conclusion, FBD was a distinct antioxidant phytotherapy to rescue neuronal oxidative stress, through blocking LPO, restoring endogenous antioxidant system, but not scavenging free radicals.

Resveratrol prevents oxidative stress and inhibition of Na(+)K(+)-ATPase activity induced by transient global cerebral ischemia in rats

Increased oxidative stress and energy metabolism deficit have been regarded as an important underlying cause for neuronal damage induced by cerebral ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury. In this study, we investigated the oxidative mechanisms underlying the neuroprotective effects of resveratrol, a potent polyphenol antioxidant found in grapes, on structural and biochemical abnormalities in rats subjected to global cerebral ischemia. Experimental model of transient global cerebral ischemia was induced in Wistar rats by the four vessel occlusion method for 10 min and followed by different periods of reperfusion. Nissl and fluoro jade C stained indicated extensive neuronal death at 7 days after I/R. These findings were preceded by a rapid increase in the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), nitric oxide (NO), lipid peroxidation, as well as by a decrease in Na(+)K(+)-ATPase activity and disrupted antioxidant defenses (enzymatic and non-enzymatic) in hippocampus and cortex. Administrating resveratrol 7 days prior to ischemia by intraperitoneal injections (30 mg/kg) significantly attenuated neuronal death in both studied structures, as well as decreased the generation of ROS, lipid peroxidation and NO content. Furthermore, resveratrol brought antioxidant and Na(+)K(+)-ATPase activity in cortex and hippocampus back to normal levels. These results support that resveratrol could be used as a preventive, or therapeutic, agent in global cerebral ischemia and suggest that scavenging of ROS contributes, at least in part, to resveratrol-induced neuroprotection.

The flavanol (-)-epicatechin prevents stroke damage through the Nrf2/HO1 pathway

Epidemiologic studies have shown that foods rich in polyphenols, such as flavanols, can lower the risk of ischemic heart disease; however, the mechanism of protection has not been clearly established. In this study, we investigated whether epicatechin (EC), a flavanol in cocoa and tea, is protective against brain ischemic damage in mice. Wild-type mice pretreated orally with 5, 15, or 30 mg/kg EC before middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) had significantly smaller brain infarcts and decreased neurologic deficit scores (NDS) than did the vehicle-treated group. Mice that were posttreated with 30 mg/kg of EC at 3.5 hours after MCAO also had significantly smaller brain infarcts and decreased NDS. Similarly, WT mice pretreated with 30 mg/kg of EC and subjected to N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA)-induced excitotoxicity had significantly smaller lesion volumes. Cell viability assays with neuronal cultures further confirmed that EC could protect neurons against oxidative insults. Interestingly, the EC-associated neuroprotection was mostly abolished in mice lacking the enzyme heme oxygenase 1 (HO1) or the transcriptional factor Nrf2, and in neurons derived from these knockout mice. These results suggest that EC exerts part of its beneficial effect through activation of Nrf2 and an increase in the neuroprotective HO1 enzyme.

20(S)-protopanaxadiol, an active ginseng metabolite, exhibits strong antidepressant-like effects in animal tests

Ginseng has been used for mood adjustment in traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years. Our previous study has shown that, total ginsenosides, the major pharmacologically functional ingredients of ginseng, possess antidepressant activity. In the present study, we hypothesized that an intestinal metabolite of ginseng, 20(S)-protopanaxadiol (code name S111), as a post metabolism compound (PMC) of ingested ginsenosides, may be responsible for the antidepressant activity of ginseng. To test this hypothesis, antidepressant-like activity of orally given S111 was measured in animal tests including tail suspension test, forced swimming test and rat olfactory bulbectomy depression model. In all those tests, S111 demonstrated antidepressant-like activity as potent as fluoxetine. S111 treated bulbectomy animals had higher levels of monoamine neurotransmitters in the brain and in vitro reuptake assay showed that S111 had a mild inhibitory effect. Furthermore, S111 but not fluoxetine significantly reduced brain oxidative stress and down-regulated serum corticosterone concentration in bulbectomy animals. No disturbance to central nervous system (CNS) normal functions were found in S111 treated animals. These results suggest that the ginseng active metabolite S111 is a potential antidepressant. Since the monoamine reuptake activity of this compound is rather weak, it remains to be investigated whether its antidepressant-like effect is by mechanisms that are different from current antidepressants. Furthermore, this study has demonstrated that post metabolism compounds (PMCs) of herb medicines such as S111 may be a novel source for drug discovery from medicinal herbs.

Neuroprotective effect of Spirulina in cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury in rats

Epidemiological studies indicate that the intake of Mediterranean-style diet is inversely associated with risk of stroke, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer. Spirulina is widely used nutritional supplement rich in proteins and antioxidants. Evidence demonstrates that the impaired energy metabolism and the excessive generation of reactive oxygen radicals contribute to the brain injury associated with cerebral ischemia. In the present study, the protective effect of Spirulina was investigated in transient middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO)-induced focal cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury in rats. Male albino rats were divided into six groups: control, sham-operated group, ischemic control group, and Spirulina-pretreated groups (45, 90 and 180 mg/kg/p.o.). Spirulina was administered once a day, for 7 days. The rats were subjected to a 2-h right MCAO via the intraluminal filament technique and 22 h of reperfusion. Pretreatment with Spirulina significantly reduced the histological changes and neurological deficits. Spirulina at a dose of 180 mg/kg significantly reversed the elevated brain malondialdehyde (MDA) content and restored the decreased activities of brain superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and reduced glutathione (GSH) indicating that Spirulina has the protective potential against cerebral ischemia injury and its protective effects may be due to its antioxidant property.

Neuroprotective effect of Artemisia absinthium L. on focal ischemia and reperfusion-induced cerebral injury

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Artemisia absinthium L. has long been used as traditional herbal medicine in China, Europe and Pakistan for the treatment of gastric pain, cardiac stimulation, to improve memory and for the restoration of declining mental function.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The present study was designed to investigate the potential protective effects of Artemisia absinthium on cerebral oxidative stress and damage as well as behavioral disturbances induced by cerebral ischemia and reperfusion injury in rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Focal ischemia and reperfusion were induced by middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) for 90 min, followed by 24 h reperfusion. MCAO led to significant rise in infarct size and lipid peroxidation, and depletion in glutathione content, superoxide dismutase and catalase activity in brain. Further, behavioral deficits like motor incoordination and impairment of short-term memory were also significantly impaired by MCAO as compared with sham group.

RESULTS

The brain oxidative stress and damage, and behavioral deficits were significantly attenuated by pre-treatment with the methanol extract of Artemisia absinthium (100 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg, p.o.).

CONCLUSION

These findings suggested that Artemisia absinthium is neuroprotective and may prove to be useful adjunct in the treatment of stroke.

Neuroprotective activity of Matricaria recutita Linn against global model of ischemia in rats

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Traditionally, the whole plant is used for various diseases, including neuronal disorders.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To evaluate the neuroprotective effect of Matricaria recutita L. against global cerebral ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury-induced oxidative stress in rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Neuroprotective activity was carried out by global cerebral ischemia on Sprague-Dawley rats by bilateral carotid artery (BCA) occlusion for 30 min followed by 60 min reperfusion. The antioxidant enzymatic and non-enzymatic levels were estimated along with cerebral infarction area and histopathological studies.

RESULTS

The Matricaria recutita L. methanolic extract showed dose-dependent neuroprotective activity by significant decrease in lipid peroxidation (LPO) and increase in the superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione (GSH) and total thiol levels in extract treated groups as compared to ischemia/reperfusion group. Cerebral infarction area was significantly reduced in extract treated groups as compared to ischemia/reperfusion group.

CONCLUSION

The methanolic extract of Matricaria recutita L. showed potent neuroprotective activity against global cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury-induced oxidative stress in rats.

American ginseng supplementation induces an oxidative stress in postmenopausal women

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether American ginseng (Panax Quinquefolium) confers antioxidant protection to postmenopausal women at rest and after a mild aerobic exercise session.

METHODS

In this double-blinded parallel study, 12 female subjects (age range 55-75) consumed two capsules, containing 500 mg of dry American ginseng whole-root powder, everyday for 4 months, whereas 13 female control subjects of the same age range consumed two placebo capsules. Before and after the supplementation regimen each subject performed 30 minutes of treadmill walking on a 5% grade incline at an estimated 60% of VO(2)max.

RESULTS

Ginseng supplementation had no effect on heart rate, blood pressure, plasma blood glucose, or lactate concentration at rest or immediately after exercise tests. The ginseng supplemented group displayed a higher resting plasma glutathione disulfide (GSSG) concentration and lower glutathione (GSH):GSSG ratio, as well as a lower resting total antioxidant content (TAC). Plasma GSSG concentration decreased, whereas the GSH:GSSG ratio and TAC increased after exercise in all subjects. Furthermore, plasma malondialdehyde and urine 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine concentrations were elevated in the ginseng-supplemented group. Erythrocyte superoxide dismutase and GSH reductase activities were increased after ginseng supplementation. The 30-minute treadmill walking, however, did not alter these changes.

CONCLUSIONS

These data suggest that chronic American ginseng supplementation at the given dose can cause an oxidative stress in postmenopausal women, as reflected by the elevated oxidative damage markers and the increased erythrocyte antioxidant enzyme activity.

The protective effect of erdosteine on short-term global brain ischemia/reperfusion injury in rats

Experimental studies have demonstrated that free radicals play a major role on neuronal injury during ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) in rats. Erdosteine is a thioderivative endowed with mucokinetic, mucolytic and free-radical-scavenging properties. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of erdosteine treatment against short-term global brain ischemia/reperfusion injury in rats. The study was carried out on Wistar rats divided into four groups. (i) Control group, (ii) ischemia/reperfusion group, (iii) ischemia/reperfusion+erdosteine group, and (iv) erdosteine group. Superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activities as well as thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARSs) and nitric oxide (NO) levels were analysed in erythrocyte and plasma of rats. Plasma NO levels were significantly higher in the ischemia/reperfusion group than the other groups. The activities of SOD and GSH-Px were decreased, while TBARS levels increased in the ischemia/reperfusion group compared to other groups in both plasma and erythrocyte. The erythrocyte CAT activity was higher in erdosteine group and there was a statistically significant increase, when compared with the erdosteine plus ischemia/reperfusion group. By treating the rats with erdosteine, the depletion of endogenous antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT, GSH-Px) and increase of TBARS and NO levels were prevented. This study, therefore, suggests that erdosteine reduces parameters of oxidative stress is well supported by the data.

Adjunctive care with nutritional, herbal, and homeopathic complementary and alternative medicine modalities in stroke treatment and rehabilitation

This article presents an overview of nutritional, herbal, and homeopathic treatment options from complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) as adjuncts in stroke prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation. Despite many promising leads, the evidence does not favor recommendation of most of these treatments from a public health policy perspective. However, simple preventive interventions such as use of a high-quality multivitamin/multimineral supplement in patients with undernutrition may improve outcomes with minimal long-term risk. Natural agents such as the antioxidant alphalipoic acid, certain traditional Asian herbal mixtures, and some homeopathically prepared remedies show promise for reducing infarct size and associated impairments. A number of nutrients and herbs may assist in treatment of stroke-related complications such as pressure sores, urinary tract infections, and pneumonia. Individualized homeopathy may even play a helpful adjunctive role in treatment of sepsis. However, a great deal of systematic research effort lies ahead before most of the options discussed would meet mainstream medical standards for introduction into routine treatment regimens.

Curcuma oil: reduces early accumulation of oxidative product and is anti-apoptogenic in transient focal ischemia in rat brain

Turmeric is a source of numerous aromatic compounds isolated from powdered rhizomes of Curcuma longa Linn. The constituents are present as volatile oil, the Curcuma oil (C.oil), semi-solid oleoresins and non-volatile compounds such as curcumin. A rapidly expanding body of data provides evidence of the anti-cancer action of Curcumin, and most importantly in the present context, its neuroprotective activity. Almost nothing is known about such activity of C.oil. We report that C.oil (500 mg Kg(-1) i.p.) 15 min before 2 h middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAo) followed by 24 h reflow in rats significantly diminished infarct volume, improved neurological deficit and counteracted oxidative stress. The percent ischemic lesion volume on diffusion-weighted imaging was significantly attenuated. Mitochondrial membrane potential, reactive oxygen species, peroxynitrite levels, caspase-3 activities leading to delayed neuronal death were significantly inhibited after treatment with C.oil. These results suggest that the neuroprotective activity of C.oil against cerebral ischemia is associated with its antioxidant activities and further; there is attenuation of delayed neuronal death via a caspase-dependent pathway. C.oil appears to be a promising agent not only for the treatment of cerebral stroke, but also for the treatment of other disorders associated with oxidative stress.

Water extract of Korean red ginseng stimulates angiogenesis by activating the PI3K/Akt-dependent ERK1/2 and eNOS pathways in human umbilical vein endothelial cells

Angiogenesis is important for promoting cardiovascular disease, wound healing, and tissue regeneration. We investigated the effects of Korean red ginseng water extract (KRGE) on angiogenesis and its underlying signal mechanism. KRGE increased in vitro proliferation, migration, and tube formation of human umbilical vein endothelial cells, as well as stimulated in vivo angiogenesis without increasing VEGF expression. KRGE-induced angiogenesis was accompanied by phosphorylation of ERK1/2, phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (Akt), and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) as well as an increase in NO production. Inhibition of PI3K activity by wortmannin completely inhibited KRGE-induced angiogenesis and phosphorylation of Akt, ERK1/2, and eNOS, indicating that PI3K/Akt activation is an upstream event of the KRGE-mediated angiogenic pathway. The MEK inhibitor PD98059 blocked KRGE-induced ERK1/2 phosphorylation without affecting Akt and eNOS activation. However, the eNOS inhibitor N(G)-monomethyl-L-arginine effectively inhibited tube formation, but partially blocked proliferation and migration as well as ERK phosphorylation, without altering Akt and eNOS activation, revealing that the eNOS/NO pathway is partially involved in ERK1/2 activation. This study demonstrated that KRGE stimulates in vitro and in vivo angiogenesis through the activation of the PI3K/Akt-dependent ERK1/2 and eNOS signal pathways and their cross talk.

Neuroprotective effect of a ginseng (Panax ginseng) root extract on astrocytes primary culture

A standardized aqueous extract of Panax ginseng radix was tested for its antioxidant effect on primary astrocytes culture on an oxidant stress model generated by H(2)O(2). The results indicated that this extract had a significant effect on the reduction of astrocytic death induced by H(2)O(2). Dose-response experiments revealed that this ginseng extract increased cell viability at a wide range of concentrations. Therefore, we investigated the effects of this extract on antioxidant enzymes such as catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidases (GPx) and glutathione reductase (GR), on glutathione content (reduced and oxidized forms and red/ox index) and on the intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation. Exposure of astrocytes to H(2)O(2) decreased the activities of antioxidant enzymes, and increased ROS formation. Ginseng root extract reversed the effect of almost all of these parameters in H(2)O(2)-injured primary cultures of rat astrocytes.

Effects of crocin on reperfusion-induced oxidative/nitrative injury to cerebral microvessels after global cerebral ischemia

This paper studied the effects of crocin, a pharmacologically active component of Crocus sativus L., on ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury in mice cerebral microvessels. Transient global cerebral ischemia (20 min), followed by 24 h of reperfusion, significantly promoted the generation of nitric oxide (NO) and malondialdehyde (MDA) in cortical microvascular homogenates, as well as markedly reduced the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-px) and promoted the activity of nitric oxide synthase (NOs). Reperfusion for 24 h led to serous edema with substantial microvilli loss, vacuolation, membrane damage and mitochondrial injuries in cortical microvascular endothelial cells (CMEC). Furthermore, enhanced phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) and decreased expression of matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) were detected in cortical microvessels after I (20 min)/R (24 h). Reperfusion for 24 h also induced membrane (functional) G protein-coupled receptor kinase 2 (GRK2) expression, while it reduced cytosol GRK2 expression. Pretreatment with crocin markedly inhibited oxidizing reactions and modulated the ultrastructure of CMEC in mice with 20 min of bilateral common carotid artery occlusion (BCCAO) followed by 24 h of reperfusion in vivo. Furthermore, crocin inhibited GRK2 translocation from the cytosol to the membrane and reduced ERK1/2 phosphorylation and MMP-9 expression in cortical microvessels. We propose that crocin protects the brain against excessive oxidative stress and constitutes a potential therapeutic candidate in transient global cerebral ischemia.

Neuroprotective Effect of Palmul-Chongmyeong-Tang on Ischemia-Induced Learning and Memory Deficits in the Rat

Ginseng Radix, Atractylodis Macrocephalae Rhizoma, Poria, Glycyrrhizae Radix, Angelicae Gigantis Radix, Ligusticum Rhizoma, Rehmanniae Radix, Paeoniae Radix, Acori Graminei Rhizoma, and Polygalae Radix have been widely used as herbal medicine against ischemia. In order to test the neuroprotective effect of a novel prescription, the present study examined the effects of Palmul-Chongmyeong-Tang (PMCMT) consisting of these ten herbs on learning and memory in the Morris water maze task and the central cholinergic system of rats with cerebral ischemia-induced neuronal and cognitive impairments. After middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) for 2 h, rats were administered with saline or PMCMT (200 mg/kg, p.o.) daily for 2 weeks, followed by their training to the tasks. In the water maze test, the animals were trained to find a platform in a fixed position during 6 d and then received a 60 s probe trial on the 7th day following removal of the platform from the pool. Rats with ischemic insults showed impaired learning and memory of the tasks and treatment with PMCMT produced a significant improvement in escape latency to find the platform in the Morris water maze. Consistent with behavioral data, treatment with PMCMT also reduced the loss of cholinergic immunoreactivity in the hippocampus induced by cerebral ischemia. These results demonstrated that PMCMT has a protective effect against ischemia-induced neuronal and cognitive impairments. The present study suggested that PMCMT might be useful in the treatment of vascular dementia.