Evaluation of an extract of North American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius L.) in Candida albicans-infected complement-deficient mice

Therapy of traditional Chinese medicine in Candida spp. and Candida associated infections: A comprehensive review

Candida spp. are commonly a group of opportunistic dimorphic fungi, frequently causing diverse fungal infections in immunocompromised or immunosuppressant patients from mucosal disturbs (oropharyngeal candidiasis and vulvovaginal candidiasis) to disseminated infections (systemic candidiasis) with high morbidity and mortality. Importantly, several Candida species can be isolated from diseased individuals with digestive, neuropathic, respiratory, metabolic and autoimmune diseases. Due to increased resistance to conventional antifungal agents, the arsenal for antifungal purpose is in urgent need. Traditional Chinese Medicines (TCMs) are a huge treasury that can be used as promising candidates for antimycotic applications. In this review, we make a short survey of microbiological (morphology and virulence) and pathological (candidiasis and Candida related infections) features of and host immune response (innate and adaptive immunity) to Candida spp.. Based on the chemical structures and well-studied antifungal mechanisms, the monomers, extracts, decoctions, essential oils and other preparations of TCMs that are reported to have fair antifungal activities or immunomodulatory effects for anticandidal purpose are comprehensively reviewed. We also emphasize the importance of combination and drug pair of TCMs as useful anticandidal strategies, as well as network pharmacology and molecular docking as beneficial complements to current experimental approaches. This review construct a therapeutic module that can be helpful to guide in-future experimental and preclinical studies in the combat against fungal threats aroused by C. albicans and non-albicans Candida species.

Potential Oral Health Benefits of Ginseng and Its Extracts

This review discusses the effects of ginseng and its extracts in the treatment of dental caries, periodontal diseases, endodontic diseases, oral cancers, oral mucosal diseases, and some other dental associations. In the meantime, bioavailability and safety application of ginseng products are discussed. All of the articles reviewed were from PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wanfang Data, and VIP Chinese Science and Technology Periodicals Full-Text Database through November 2022, including full-text English or non-English publications. Ginseng and its extracts were shown to have beneficial effects on oral diseases, and further studies are needed to understand the mechanisms and confirm the effects in humans.

Application of Ginsenoside Rd in Periodontitis With Inhibitory Effects on Pathogenicity, Inflammation, and Bone Resorption

Periodontitis is a worldwide oral disease induced by the interaction of subgingival bacteria and host response and is characterized by local inflammation, bone resorption, and tooth loss. Ginsenoside Rd (Rd) is a biologically active component derived from Panax ginseng and has been demonstrated to exert antibacterial and anti-inflammatory activities. This study aims to investigate the inhibitory efficiency of Rd towards Porphyromonas gingivalis (P. gingivalis), periodontal inflammatory response, and osteoclastogenesis in vitro and to further validate the results in a mouse periodontitis model, thus, evaluate the potential effects of Rd on the control and prevention of periodontitis. According to the results, Rd exerted excellent antibacterial activities against planktonic P. gingivalis, along with attenuating P. gingivalis virulence and inhibiting its biofilms. Meanwhile, the inflammatory cytokine production and osteoclastogenesis were remarkably inhibited by Rd both in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, Rd efficiently ameliorated the subgingival P. gingivalis abundance and suppressed the alveolar bone resorption in vivo as well. In conclusion, Rd has the potential to be developed as a promising medication in the control and prevention of periodontitis.

Adaptogenic effects of Panax ginseng on modulation of immune functions

Traditional medicinal practices have used natural products such as adaptogens to treat inflammatory, autoimmune, neurodegenerative, bacterial, and viral diseases since the early days of civilization. Panax ginseng Myer is a common herb used in East Asian countries for millennia, especially in Korea, China, and Japan. Numerous studies indicate that ginseng can modulate the immune system and thereby prevent diseases. Although the human immune system comprises many different types of cells, multiple studies suggest that each type of immune cell can be controlled or stimulated by ginseng or its derivatives. Provisional lists of ginseng's potential for use against viruses, bacteria, and other microorganisms suggest it may prove to be a valuable pharmaceutical resource, particularly if higher-quality evidence can be found. Here, we reviewed the role of ginseng as an immune-modulating agent in attempt to provide a valuable starting point for future studies on the herb and the human immune system.

Panax quinquefolius (North American Ginseng) Polysaccharides as Immunomodulators: Current Research Status and Future Directions

Panax quinquefolius (North American ginseng, NAG) is a popular medicinal plant used widely in traditional medicine. NAG products are currently available in various forms such as roots, extracts, nutraceuticals, dietary supplements, energy drinks, etc. NAG polysaccharides are recognized as one of the major bioactive ingredients. However, most NAG reviews are focused on ginsenosides with little information on polysaccharides. NAG polysaccharides have demonstrated a therapeutic activity in numerous studies, in which many of the bioactivities involve regulation of the immune response. The purpose of this review is to summarize the structural features and the immunomodulatory properties of crude, partially purified, and pure polysaccharides isolated from NAG. Receptors of the innate immune system that potentially bind to NAG polysaccharides and the respective signal transduction pathways initiated by these compounds are discussed. Major challenges, recent innovations, and future directions in NAG polysaccharide research are also summarized.

Panacis Quinquefolii Radix: A Review of the Botany, Phytochemistry, Quality Control, Pharmacology, Toxicology and Industrial Applications Research Progress

On January 2, 2020, The National Health Commission and the State Administration for Market Regulation listed Panacis Quinquefolii Radix (PQR) as a medicinal and food homologous product. PQR is the dry root of Panax quinquefolium L., which has the functions of replenishing qi and nourishing Yin, clearing heat and producing body fluid. It is often used for qi deficiency and Yin deficiency, heat exhaustion, asthma and phlegm, dry mouth and pharynx. PQR is sweet, slightly bitter and cool in nature, and enter the heart, lung and kidney meridian exerts the remedial and hygienical effect. At present, active components such as saponins, flavonoids, fatty acids, polyalkynes, volatile oils and other nutrients such as amino acids, carbohydrates, vitamins and trace elements have been isolated from PQR. Modern pharmacological studies have shown that PQR has the effects of hypoglycemic, antihypertensive, anti fatigue, anti-oxidation, anti-tumor, immunomodulatory, neuroprotective and so on. In addition, PQR is recognized as a health care product to strengthen the body and dispel diseases. It is not only the raw material of Traditional Chinese medicine preparations, but also the treasure of dietary therapy and herbal cuisine. This study not only reviewed the botany, phytochemistry and pharmacology of PQR, but also summarized its quality control, toxicity and industrial applications for the first time. This paper not only summarizes the development status of PQR, but also analyzes the shortcomings of the current research on PQR, and puts forward the corresponding solutions, in order to provide reference for future scholars to study PQR.

Antimicrobial activities of Asian ginseng, American ginseng, and notoginseng

Asian ginseng (Panax ginseng C.A. Meyer), American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius) and notoginseng (Panax notoginseng) are the three most commonly used ginseng botanicals in the world. With the increasing interests on antimicrobial properties of plants, the antimicrobial activities of ginseng species have been investigated by a number of researchers worldwide. This overview interprets our present knowledge of the antimicrobial activities of the three ginseng species and some of their bioactive components against pathogenic bacteria (Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Helicobacter pylori, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Propionibacterium acnes, et al.) and fungi (Candida albicans, Fusarium oxysporum, et al). Ginsenosides, polysaccharides, essential oil, proteins, and panaxytriol are all might responsible for the antimicrobial activities of ginseng. The antimicrobial mechanisms of ginseng components could be summarized to the following points: (a) inhibit the microbial motility and quorum-sensing ability; (b) affect the formation of biofilms and destroy the mature biofilms, which can weaken the infection ability of the microbes; (c) perturb membrane lipid bilayers, thus causing the formation of pores, leakages of cell constituents and eventually cell death; (d) stimulate of the immune system and attenuate microbes induced apoptosis, inflammation, and DNA damages, which can protect or help the host fight against microbial infections; and (e) inhibit the efflux of antibiotics that can descend the drug resistance of the microbial. The collected information might facilitate and guide further studies needed to optimize the use of ginseng and their components to improve microbial food safety and prevent or treat animal and human infections.

Anti-fatigue effects of small-molecule oligopeptides isolated from Panax quinquefolium L. in mice

American ginseng (Panax quinquefolium L.) was reported to have extensive biological activities and pharmaceutical properties.

Effect of the Ethyl Acetate Fraction of Eugenia uniflora on Proteins Global Expression during Morphogenesis in Candida albicans

Candida albicans is able to switch from yeast to hyphal growth and this is an essential step for tissue invasion and establishment of infection. Due to the limited drug arsenal used to treat fungal infections and the constant emergence of resistant strains, it is important to search for new therapeutic candidates. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate by proteomic analysis the role of a natural product (Eugenia uniflora) in impairing hypha formation in C. albicans. We also tested the potential action of E. uniflora to prevent and treat oral candidiasis induced in a murine model of oral infection and the ability of polymorphonuclear neutrophils to phagocytize C. albicans cells treated with the ethyl acetate fraction of the extract. We found that this fraction greatly reduced hypha formation after morphogenesis induction in the presence of serum. Besides, several proteins were differentially expressed in cells treated with the fraction. Surprisingly, the ethyl acetate fraction significantly reduced phagocytosis in C. albicans (Mean 120.36 ± 36.71 yeasts/100 PMNs vs. 44.68 ± 19.84 yeasts/100 PMNs). Oral candidiasis was attenuated when C. albicans cells were either pre-incubated in the presence of E. uniflora or when the fraction was applied to the surface of the oral cavity after infection. These results were consistent with the reduction in CFU counts (2.36 vs. 1.85 Log10 CFU/ml) and attenuation of tissue damage observed with histopathological analysis of animals belonging to treated group. We also observed shorter true hyphae by direct examination and histopathological analysis, when cells were treated with the referred natural product. The E. uniflora ethyl acetate fraction was non-toxic to human cells. E. uniflora may act on essential proteins mainly related to cellular structure, reducing the capacity of filamentation and attenuating infection in a murine model, without causing any toxic effect on human cells, suggesting that it may be a future therapeutic alternative for the treatment of Candida infections.

Modulation of an aqueous extract of Chinese medicine prescription Anzi Heji () on ratio of CD4+CD25+FOXP3+ regulatory T cells in anticardiolipin antibody-positive patients with threatened abortion

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate Chinese medicine prescription, Anzi Heji (, AZHJ), on immune regulation of CD4+CD25+FOXP3+ regulatory T cells (Tregs) in anticardiolipin antibody (ACA)-positive patients with threatened abortion.

METHODS

Twenty-seven ACA-positive female patients with threatened abortion in the study group were treated with an aqueous extract of AZHJ 125 mL, twice daily for 4 consecutive weeks. The results were compared with control group composed by 15 healthy pregnant women. The ratio of CD4+CD25+FOXP3+ Treg in peripheral blood was identified by flow cytometry. The indicators of ACA were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and embryo development was checked by B-ultrasound.

RESULTS

Compared with the control group, the ratio of CD4+CD25+FOXP3+ Treg cells in the study group was significantly lower before AZHJ treatment (P<0.01) and significantly increased after AZHJ treatment (P<0.01). After treatment, 20 of 27 patients (85%) showed that ACA indicators turned into negative, and 7 cases of quantitative indicators of ACA titers were significantly decreased (P<0.01). Total efficiency of treating miscarriage by AZHJ was 92.59%.

CONCLUSION

AZHJ can regulate the immune function of pregnant women by increasing number of CD4+CD25+FOXP3+ Tregs.

Anti-fatigue effects of proteins isolated from Panax quinquefolium

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

American ginseng (Panax quinquefolium) is an obligate shade perennial plant that belongs to Araliaceae ginseng species, and is native to eastern USA and Canada. Ginseng proteins are reported to have several pharmaceutical properties. However, such properties of American ginseng proteins (AGP) have seldom been reported. Also, anti-fatigue properties of AGP have not been studied. Therefore, we examined the anti-fatigue effects of AGP in mice.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The molecular weight and protein contents of AGP were determined by SDS-PAGE, while the amino acid composition was analyzed by HPLC. The mice were divided into four groups. The control group was administered distilled water by gavage every day for 28 days. The other groups, designated as AGP treatment groups, were administered 125, 250 and 500 mg/kg of body weight, respectively of AGP by gavage every day for 28 days. Anti-fatigue activity was estimated using forced swimming test, and biochemical indices were determined using available kits.

RESULTS

The subunit molecular weight of AGP ranged from 8-66 kD and the protein content measured by Bradford assay was 1.86 mg/mL. The forced swimming time of low, intermediate and high groups were found to be longer as compared to the control group. AGP significantly decreased blood lactate (BLA) and serum urea nitrogen (SUN) levels, and increased hepatic glycogen (GLU) level. Additionally, AGP lowered malondialdehyde (MDA) content and increased the levels of glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and superoxide dismutase (SOD).

CONCLUSION

AGP shows anti-fatigue activity in mice, as measured by the physiological indices for fatigue.

Host-pathogen interaction and signaling molecule secretion are modified in the dpp3 knockout mutant of Candida lusitaniae

Candida lusitaniae is an emerging opportunistic yeast and an attractive model to discover new virulence factors in Candida species by reverse genetics. Our goal was to create a dpp3Δ knockout mutant and to characterize the effects of this gene inactivation on yeast in vitro and in vivo interaction with the host. The secretion of two signaling molecules in Candida species, phenethyl alcohol (PEA) and tyrosol, but not of farnesol was surprisingly altered in the dpp3Δ knockout mutant. NO and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production as well as tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin 10 (IL-10) secretion were also modified in macrophages infected with this mutant. Interestingly, we found that the wild-type (WT) strain induced an increase in IL-10 secretion by zymosan-activated macrophages without the need for physical contact, whereas the dpp3Δ knockout mutant lost this ability. We further showed a striking role of PEA and tyrosol in this modulation. Last, the DPP3 gene was found to be an essential contributor to virulence in mice models, leading to an increase in TNF-α secretion and brain colonization. Although reinsertion of a WT DPP3 copy in the dpp3Δ knockout mutant was not sufficient to restore the WT phenotypes in vitro, it allowed a restoration of those observed in vivo. These data support the hypothesis that some of the phenotypes observed following DPP3 gene inactivation may be directly dependent on DPP3, while others may be the indirect consequence of another genetic modification that systematically arises when the DPP3 gene is inactivated.