Immunostimulant activities of the aqueous methanolic extract of Leptadenia pyrotechnica, a plant from Cholistan desert

A critical review of Ginger's (Zingiber officinale) antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory activities

Ginger (Zingiber officinale) is a rhizome that has been used as a healthy herbal plant for years. Ginger's chemical components are recognized to provide beneficial health effects, namely as antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents with the potential to operate as immunomodulators. This literature review covers numerous publications concerning ginger's immunomodulatory potential, associated with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects in modifying the body's immune system. Pathophysiology of oxidative stress and inflammation were introduced before diving deep down into the herbal plants as an immunomodulator. Ginger's antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties are provided by gingerol, shogaols, paradol, and zingerone. Ginger's antioxidant mechanism is linked to Nrf2 signaling pathway activation. Its anti-inflammatory mechanism is linked to Akt inhibition and NF-KB activation, triggering the release of anti-inflammatory cytokines while reducing proinflammatory cytokines. Ginger consumption as food and drink was also explored. Overall, ginger and its active components have been shown to have strong antioxidant properties and the potential to reduce inflammation. Challenges and future prospects of ginger are also elaborated for future development. Future collaborations between researchers from various fields, including chemists, biologists, clinicians, pharmacists, and the food industry, are required further to investigate the effect of ginger on human immunity. Collaboration between researchers and industry can help accelerate the advancement of ginger applications.

Immunomodulatory effects of epiphytic Loranthus micranthus leaf extracts collected from two host plants: Psidium guajava and Parkia biglobosa

BACKGROUND

Immunological abnormalities are implicated in the pathogenesis of many chronic diseases. Due to the drug-related adverse effects of currently available orthodox immunomodulators, natural immunomodulators are being looked upon as potential agents to replace them in therapeutic regimens. This research aimed to investigate the immunomodulatory potential of L. micranthus extracts epiphytic on Psidium guajava (LMPGE) and Parkia biglobosa (LMPBE).

METHODS

Phytochemical screening and acute toxicity testing were carried out to identify the phytoconstituents and safety profiles of the extracts. The extracts' innate and adaptive immunomodulatory potentials were determined in experimental animals using in vivo leucocyte mobilization, delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) response, hemagglutination antibody titre, and cyclophosphamide-induced myelosuppression models. Levamisole was used as the standard drug throughout the study.

RESULTS

Compared to LMPBE, LMPGE contained significantly (p <  0.05) more tannins, cyanogenic glycosides, saponins, reducing sugars, glycosides, flavonoids, and alkaloids. Furthermore, the groups treated with the extracts had a significant (p <  0.05) increase in the total number of leucocytes, neutrophils, basophils, and antibody titers relative to the untreated control. In the same way, the treatment raised TLC in cyclophosphamide-intoxicated rats, with 250 mg/kg b. w. of LMPGE and LMPBE recording 9712.50 ± 178.00 and 8000.00 ± 105.00 ×  109 /L, respectively, compared to 3425.00 ± 2 5.00 × 109 /L in the untreated group. Overall, LMPGE was more effective.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings from this study suggest that L. micranthus epiphytic in Psidium guajava and Parkia biglobosa has possible immune stimulating potential.

The influence of Salvia cadmica Boiss. extracts on the M1/M2 polarization of macrophages primed with Helicobacter pylori lipopolysaccharide in conjunction with NF-kappa B activation, production of cytokines, phagocytic activity and total DNA methylation

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The large number of secondary derivatives have been isolated from the genus Salvia with about 700 species, and used in the pharmacopoeia throughout the world. Various biological properties of Salvia formulations have been reported including as antioxidant, antimicrobial, hypotensive, anti-hyperglycemia, anti-hyperlipidemia, anti-cancer, and skin curative. Salvia cadmica Boiss. root and aerial part extracts enriched with polyphenols are bactericidal towards gastric pathogen Helicobacter pylori (Hp) and diminish deleterious effects induced by Hp lipopolysaccharide (LPS) towards gastric epithelial cells.

AIM OF THIS STUDY

To examine the influence of S. cadmica extracts on the M1/M2 polarization of macrophages primed with Hp LPS vs standard LPS Escherichia coli (Ec), and the macrophage cytokine as well as phagocytic activity, which are affected during Hp infection.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Macrophages derived from THP-1 human monocytes primed with LPS Hp/Ec and/or S. cadmica extracts, were examined for the biomarkers of activation (surface, cytoplasmic or soluble), and phagocytic capacity. The bone marrow macrophages of Caviaporcellus were used to determine the engulfment of Hp.

RESULTS

Priming of THP-1 cells (24h) with LPS Hp/Ec resulted in polarization of M1 macrophages, activation of nuclear factor kappa B, secretion of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-1 beta, macrophage chemotactic protein (MCP)-1, immunoregulatory IL-10, and production of reactive oxygen species. These effects were diminished after restimulation of cells with S. cadmica extracts. THP-1 macrophages exposed to studied extracts showed an increased phagocytic capacity, in conjunction with elevated CD11b/CD11d expression and enhanced production of inducible nitric oxide synthase. They also increased Hp engulfment by bone marrow macrophages. These effects were not related to a global DNA methylation.

CONCLUSIONS

S. cadmica extracts possess an immunomodulating activity, which might be useful in control of H. pylori LPS driven activity of macrophages.

Evaluation of Caralluma edulis for its Potential Against Obesity, Atherosclerosis and Hypertension

Obesity, a chronic metabolic condition, is an increase in fat mass and blood lipid levels mainly causing atherosclerosis and hypertension, which further lead to cardiovascular complications. The objective of the study was to investigate the crude extract of Caralluma edulis (CE.Cr) for its potential against high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obesity and its related complications. Hyperlipidemia was induced in Wistar albino rats with HFD (1% cholesterol + 0.5% cholic acid) for 28 days. Treatment groups were administered with different doses of CE.Cr (100, 300 and 500 mg/Kg, p.o.) and the standard group received atorvastatin. At the end of study, sera were analyzed for biochemical markers and the aorta was dissected for microscopic examination. Antioxidant potential was evaluated and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis was performed. The hypotensive potential of CE.Cr was evaluated through an invasive technique. HPLC analysis of CE.Cr showed the presence of chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid, apigenin and naringenin. Histological examination of the aorta section showed anti-atherosclerotic effects which were also evident from decrease in serum total cholesterol, triglycerides and low-density lipoproteins levels. CE.Cr decreased mean arterial blood pressure and evoked significant hypotensive effects. The crude extract of C. edulis showed anti-obesity, antihypertensive, anti-atherosclerotic and antioxidant potential.

Geranium wallichianum D. Don Ex Sweet Ameliorates Rheumatoid Arthritis by Curtailing the Expression of COX-II and Inflammatory Cytokines as Well as by Alleviating the Oxidative Stress

Geranium wallichianum D. Don ex sweet traditionally been used as home remedy for backaches, joint pain, colic, and rheumatism. The objective of this study was to investigate the therapeutic benefits of plant in an adjuvant-induced arthritis paradigm. Immune-mediated rheumatoid arthritis was developed by injecting complete Freund’s adjuvant (CFA) into the hind paws of rats and the aqueous methanolic crude extract was administered. The animals were physically monitored for changes in paw edema size and arthritic score. Hematological parameters and systemic inflammatory indicators evaluated. Genetic expressions of tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α), interleukins (IL-1β, IL-6), necrosis factor (NF-κB), and cyclooxygenase (COX-II) enzyme were studied using real-time qPCR. PGE2 levels in blood were quantified through Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA). On the 14th day, Immunoglobulin E (IGE) exhibited a substantial decline in paw edema and arthritic score. At the doses of 500 mg/Kg (P ≤ .05) and 1000 mg/Kg (P ≤ .001), IGE significantly reduced TNF-α, interleukins, and COX-II mRNA expression. IGE significantly lowered the MDA levels at the doses of 500 and 1000 mg/Kg (13.18 ± .70 and 9.04 ± .26 μM/L respectively) as compared to arthritic control (30.82 ± 1.12 μM/L) group. IGE significantly improved the antioxidant enzyme activities of CAT and SOD (P ≤ .001) in treated animals. TNF-α, interleukins, and COX-II mRNA expression were also significantly reduced at the doses of 300 (P ≤ .05), 500 (P ≤ .01) and 1000 mg/Kg (P ≤ .001) which were expressed as fold changes. This study shows that Geranium wallichianum D. Don ex sweet has a strong potential to alleviate immune-mediated arthritis by lowering oxidative stress and downregulating the proinflammatory cytokines signaling mechanisms.

Pharmacological Role of Capparis decidua (Forssk.) Edgew in Preventing Cyclophosphamide-induced Myelosuppression and Modulating Innate and Adaptive Immune Response

Background

Capparis decidua (Forssk.) Edgew is reported to be practiced in the traditional system of medicine for the management of various immunological pathologies.

Purpose

The current study was designed to evaluate the modulatory effects of C decidua on different immune responses.

Research Design

C decidua was extracted in 70% methanol and the crude extract (Cd.Cr) was analyzed by FTIR and GCMS. In vivo models were employed to assess the actions of Cd.Cr on cyclophosphamide-induced myelosuppression, innate and adaptive immune responses.

Results

GCMS and FTIR analysis indicated the presence of flavonoids, phenols, terpenoids and lipids. Cd.Cr evoked a significant and dose-dependent increase in percent neutrophil adhesion (15.97 ± .81, 27.47 ± .79 and 38.35 ± 1.08) and the phagocytic index (3.1 ± .04, 3.96 ± .06 and 5.28 ± .13) at the doses of 30, 100 and 300 mg/kg. Cd.Cr also potentiated haemagglutinating antibody titre, immunoglobulins and cytokines (interferon-γ and interleukin-2) production for 4 weeks, after exposure to sheep erythrocytes, and delayed type hypersensitivity reaction significantly (P < .05). The restoration of hematological profile and antioxidant enzyme activities, by Cd.Cr, indicated the prevention of cyclophosphamide-induced myelosuppression and oxidative stress.

Conclusions

The findings of this study suggest that C decidua holds immunomodulatory activity by thus possesses therapeutic potential for the management of immunological diseases.

Caralluma tuberculata exhibits analgesic and anti-arthritic potential by downregulating pro-inflammatory cytokines and attenuating oxidative stress

Caralluma tuberculata N.E. Brown (Common name: Chongan), belonging to the family Asclepiadaceae is distributed widely in hilly areas of Dir, Swat, Kohat and in plain lands of Punjab, Pakistan. The plant has been used as a source of vegetable as well as home remedy for headache, muscle spasms and rheumatism. The present study was proposed to investigate the analgesic, anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic potential of the aqueous methanolic extract of C. tuberculata (ICE). The dried shoots of plant were used to prepare aqueous methanolic extract (30:70) by 3 days thrice maceration and filtration followed by evaporation under reduced pressure. ICE was screened for the presence of phytochemicals using preliminary phytochemical analysis and HPLC. The antioxidant potential was evaluated through DPPH assay. Analgesic potential of ICE was studied using hot plate and tail immersion methods, and anti-inflammatory activity was performed using turpentine oil and carrageenan-induced inflammation models, in wistar albino rats. Formaldehyde-induced and Complete Freund's Adjuvant-induced arthritis models were used for the assessment of anti-arthritic activity of ICE and its effects on serum levels of PGE-2 as well as gene expression levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines were studied. ICE displayed a dose-dependent (300-1000 mg/Kg p.o.) analgesic effect in hot plate (maximum retention time of 10.87 and 13 s) and tail immersion (response time of 11 and 13.64 s) tests at the doses of 500 and 1000 mg/Kg, respectively. The extract exhibited a significant decrease in paw inflammation of rats at the doses of 500 and 1000 mg/Kg as compared to the disease control group. ICE also exhibited a remarkable decline in arthritic score and a dose-dependent drop in serum levels of prostaglandin E2. There was a significant suppression in the expression of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, NF-κB and cyclooxygenase enzyme in treatment groups. This study concludes that Caralluma tuberculata exhibits strong analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-arthritic activities thus upholding the vernacular use of the plant for pain and rheumatism.

Pharmacological Evaluation of Mentha piperita Against Urolithiasis: An In Vitro and In Vivo Study

Background: Mentha piperita L. (peppermint) is one of the most widely consumed medicinal herbs that has gained attention from food and pharmaceutical industries due to its distinct aroma and taste. Purpose: Present study was aimed to rationalize the traditional use of peppermint in urolithiasis and to explore its possible underlying mechanism. Research Design: The aqueous methanolic crude extract of Mentha piperita (Mp.Cr) was assessed for phytochemical constituents and antioxidant activity. In vitro crystallization assays were performed to determine the inhibitory effects of Mp.Cr against crystal nucleation, aggregation and growth. In vivo urolithiasis model was developed in rats by the administration of ammonium chloride and ethylene glycol in drinking water. The antiurolithic effects of Mp.Cr were evaluated by analyzing kidney homogenate, biochemical and histological parameters. Results: HPLC analysis showed the presence of epicatechin, quercetin, gallic acid, syringic acid, kaempferol, caffeic acid and coumaric acid. The maximum quantity of quercetin equivalent flavonoid and gallic acid equivalent phenolic content was found to be 63.73 ± .24 mg QE/g and 43.76 ± .6 mg GAE/g of Mp.Cr, respectively. Mp.Cr significantly normalized urinary and serum biochemistry, similar to the standard cystone treatment. Conclusions: The current study validated the preventive and curative potential of Mp.Cr against urolithiasis and justified its traditional use in kidney stone disease.

In vitro and in vivo biocompatibility study of polyacrylate TiO2@Ag coated nanoparticles for the radiation dose enhancement

To enhance the efficacy of radiation therapy, functionalised core-shell nanoparticles (CS NPs) are used as a radiosensitizer. These NPs can act as a therapeutic agent and carrier for other therapeutic agents. In this study, the first poly-acrylic acid modified silver-coated titanium dioxide NPs were fabricated to evaluate the radiation dose enhancement within the human tissue equivalent polymer gel after investigating the biocompatibility. Macrophage cell line and rats model were used for in vitro and in vivo study respectively. Two different beam qualities were applied to quantify the radiation dose enhancement with different concentrations of NPs in the polymer gel. The dose enhancement factors (DEFs) indicated that these biocompatible CS NPs are more effective for the radiation dose enhancement at low energy x-rays (80 kV) as compared to the high energy gamma (1.25 MeV Co60). These results suggested that functionalised core-shell silver-coated titanium dioxide NPs have great potential as a radiosensitizer in radiation therapy.

Immunomodulatory Potential of the Industrialized Houttuynia cordata Fermentation Product In Vitro and in Wistar Rats

Houttuynia cordata fermentation products (HCFPs) are produced and widely used as dietary supplements for health and immune support. However, the effect on immune function for these products has not been clearly demonstrated. In this study, soluble fractions of the selected HCFP were used for determination of the immunomodulatory potential, both in vitro and in animal models. Viability and proliferation of rat splenocytes and phagocytic activity of human neutrophils were evaluated. Studies on immunomodulatory effects, including hematological parameters, mitogen-driven lymphocyte proliferation and hemagglutination, were performed in both healthy and immunosuppressed rats. Soluble fraction of the selected HCFP significantly enhanced phagocytic activity of human neutrophils and tended to stimulate splenocyte viability and proliferation. There was no morbidity or mortality for administration of a 14-day regimen of the selected HCFP in both male and female rats. The healthy rats treated with HCFP gained body weight less than the control group, suggesting a reduction in calorie intake. Moreover, low dose of HCFP caused an increased B cell proliferation in ex-vivo, which was related to the increased antibody titer against SRBC in immunosuppressed rats. Our results indicate that the selected HCFP enhances the phagocytic activity of the neutrophils and augments the antibody production in immunosuppressed rats.

Phagocytosis, Degranulation and Extracellular Traps Release by Neutrophils-The Current Knowledge, Pharmacological Modulation and Future Prospects

Neutrophils are crucial elements of innate immune system, which assure host defense via a range of effector functions, such as phagocytosis, degranulation, and NET formation. The latest literature clearly indicates that modulation of effector functions of neutrophils may affect the treatment efficacy. Pharmacological modulation may affect molecular mechanisms activating or suppressing phagocytosis, degranulation or NET formation. In this review, we describe the role of neutrophils in physiology and in the course of bacterial and viral infections, illustrating the versatility and plasticity of those cells. This review also focus on the action of plant extracts, plant-derived compounds and synthetic drugs on effector functions of neutrophils. These recent advances in the knowledge can help to devise novel therapeutic approaches via pharmacological modulation of the described processes.

Protective effect of myricetin, apigenin, and hesperidin pretreatments on cyclophosphamide-induced immunosuppression

Aim: Major side effects of cyclophosphamide administration are immunosuppression and myelosuppression. The immunomodulatory effects of plant bioactive compounds on chemotherapy drug-induced immunosuppression may have significant effects in cancer treatment. For this reason, we investigated the immunomodulatory effect of myricetin, apigenin, and hesperidin in cyclophosphamide-induced immunosuppression in rats.Methods: In our study, a total of 64 rats were used, and divided into eight equal groups. These groups were: control, cyclophosphamide, cyclophosphamide + myricetin (100 mg/kg), cyclophosphamide + myricetin (200 mg/kg), cyclophosphamide + apigenin (100 mg/kg), cyclophosphamide + apigenin (200 mg/kg), cyclophosphamide + hesperidin (100 mg/kg), and cyclophosphamide + hesperidin (200 mg/kg). Myricetin, apigenin, and hesperidin pretreatments were performed for 14 d, while cyclophosphamide application (200 mg/kg) was performed only on the 4th day of the study. Levels of humoral antibody production, quantitative hemolysis, macrophage phagocytosis, splenic lymphocyte proliferation, and natural killer cell cytotoxicity were determined. In addition, we measured pro-inflammatory cytokines, and followed lipid peroxidation and antioxidant markers and examined the histology of bone marrow, liver and spleen in all groups.Results: During cyclophosphamide treatment, all three phytochemicals increased the levels of humoral antibody production, quantitative hemolysis, macrophage phagocytosis, splenic lymphocyte proliferation, antioxidant markers, and natural killer cell cytotoxicity. Moreover, the agents decreased the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and mediators, reduced lipid peroxidation markers, and reduced tissue damage in liver, spleen, and bone marrow.Conclusion: Our study demonstrated that myricetin, apigenin, and hesperidin can reduce the immunosuppressive effect of cyclophosphamide by enhancing both innate and adaptive immune responses, and these compounds may be useful immunomodulatory agents during cancer chemotherapy.

Spice-infused palmyra palm syrup improved cell-mediated immunity in Wistar Albino rats

Spices attract tremendous attention in the management of viral infections. However, scientific validation is vital to recommend spices as nutraceuticals or functional foods. In the present work, we have selected three spices based on Ayurvedic knowledge and developed a nutraceutical for immunomodulation. Trikatu, a blend of ginger, black pepper, and long pepper, is used in the Indian Ayurvedic system, along with many herbs, for various ailments. We formulated a "Trikatu syrup" (TS) using these three spices and palmyra palm neera. Carbon clearance assay, neutrophil adhesion test, and sheep red blood cell (SRBC)-induced delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) reaction was performed to investigate the immunomodulatory potential of TS in Wistar Albino rats. The rats fed with TS showed a dose-dependent increase in footpad thickness compared to control rats, suggesting cell-mediated immunity. The major bioactive piperine in TS was isolated and quantified. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Spices are consumed worldwide as a flavor enhancer in food. Besides, spices have an array of bioactive molecules with a multitude of health benefits. In the backdrop of COVID-19, immunomodulation and antiviral properties of spices are discussed widely. The present study is intended to explore the potential of three selected spices (ginger, black pepper, and long pepper) beyond its application in typical food preparations. The syrup formulated in this study by using these three spices improved cell-mediated immunity in Wistar Albino rats. The study warrants further validation studies of the formulated product for providing indisputable claims for the immunomodulation properties.

Immunomodulatory effects and structure-activity relationship of botanical pentacyclic triterpenes: A review

Botanical pentacyclic triterpenes possessed a broad range of pharmacological activities such as anti-oxidant, anti-tumor, anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory activities. It is believed that the mechanisms involved in these bioactivities are due to the modulation of immune system. Recently, the pharmacological validation on immunomodulatory of pentacyclic triterpenes derived from higher plants is very limited and several existence review papers related for this group of compound have not been focused for this activity. In this review, we have highlighted several studies on immunomodulatory potential of botanical pentacyclic triterpenes isolated from wide array of different species of medicinal plants and herbs based on various preclinical in vitro and animal models. This review also attempts to discuss on bioactivities of compouns related with their structure-activity relationship. Hence, the evaluation of pentacyclic triterpenes offers a great opportunity to discover adjuvants and novel therapeutic agents that presented beneficial immunomodulatory properties.

Aqueous extract of Phragmitis rhizoma ameliorates myelotoxicity of docetaxel in vitro and in vivo

Background

A variety of anticancer chemotherapeutics induce adverse side effects including myelotoxicity. Dried roots of Phragmites communis Trinius, Phragmitis rhizoma, have been clinically used in traditional folk medicine to relieve various symptoms like fever. In this study, we evaluated the protective effect of the aqueous extract of Phragmitis rhizoma (EPR) against docetaxel-induced myelotoxicity in vitro and in vivo.

Methods

The in vitro myelo-protective effect of EPR was evaluated using the colony forming unit (CFU) assay with hematopoietic progenitor cells. The in vivo efficacy of EPR was evaluated in myelosuppressed C57BL/6 male mice which were induced by repeated intraperitoneal injections of 30 mg/kg docetaxel for 3 times. EPR was orally administered for 4 days to docetaxel-induced myelosuppressed C57BL/6 male mice which were induced by intraperitoneal injection of 30 mg/kg docetaxel for 3 times: Group 1 (vehicle control, n = 10), Group 2 (docetaxel plus vehicle, n = 10), Group 3 (docetaxel plus EPR 30 mg/kg, n = 10), Group 4 (docetaxel plus EPR 100 mg/kg, n = 10) and Group 5 (docetaxel plus EPR 300 mg/kg, n = 10). Whole blood counts were measured automatically, and immune organs were histologically examined. Expression of immunomodulatory cytokines was measured by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction or enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The toxicity of EPR itself was evaluated in normal human cell lines including IMR-90, foreskin fibroblast and human umbilical vein endothelial cells. The hepatotoxicity of EPR was predicted by multi-parametric assays involving cell viability, caspase 3/7 activity, GSH contents and LDH leakage using the HepaRG hepatic cell line.

Results

Co-treatment of EPR or its major component, p-hydroxycinnamic acid, increased the numbers of hematopoietic CFU counts in the docetaxel-induced in vitro myelotoxicity assay system. The in vitro protective effect of EPR against docetaxel toxicity was replicated in a myelosuppressed animal model: white blood cells, neutrophils, lymphocytes and red blood cells rebounded; bone marrow niche and structural integrity of the thymus were preserved; and the expression of immune-stimulating cytokines including IL3, IL6, SCF and GM-CSF was enhanced. Furthermore, EPR and p-hydroxycinnamic acid promoted the proliferation of primary splenocytes and thymocytes. In the toxicity assays, no remarkable signs related with toxicity were observed in all tested normal human cells and HepaRG.

Conclusions

EPR has the potential to ameliorate docetaxel-mediated myelotoxicity in both in vitro and in vivo models. However, the identification of the responsible active components and the precise underlying myelo-protective mechanism of EPR need to be elucidated before novel drug development using EPR can precede.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12906-017-1890-1) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.