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Clemente-Suárez VJ, Mielgo-Ayuso J, Ramos-Campo DJ, Beltran-Velasco AI, Martínez-Guardado I, Navarro Jimenez E, Redondo-Flórez L, Yáñez-Sepúlveda R, Tornero-Aguilera JF. Basis of preventive and non-pharmacological interventions in asthma. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1172391. [PMID: 37920579 PMCID: PMC10619920 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1172391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Asthma is one of the most common atopic disorders in all stages of life. Its etiology is likely due to a complex interaction between genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Due to this, different non-pharmacological interventions can be implemented to reduce or alleviate the symptoms caused by this disease. Thus, the present narrative review aimed to analyze the preventive and non-pharmacological interventions such as physical exercise, physiotherapy, nutritional, ergonutritional, and psychological strategies in asthma treatment. To reach these aims, an extensive narrative review was conducted. The databases used were MedLine (PubMed), Cochrane (Wiley), Embase, PsychINFO, and CinAhl. Asthma is an immune-mediated inflammatory condition characterized by increased responsiveness to bronchoconstrictor stimuli. Different factors have been shown to play an important role in the pathogenesis of asthma, however, the treatments used to reduce its incidence are more controversial. Physical activity is focused on the benefits that aerobic training can provide, while physiotherapy interventions recommend breathing exercises to improve the quality of life of patients. Nutritional interventions are targeted on implement diets that prioritize the consumption of fruits and vegetables and supplementation with antioxidants. Psychological interventions have been proposed as an essential non-pharmacological tool to reduce the emotional problems associated with asthma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vicente Javier Clemente-Suárez
- Faculty of Sports Sciences, Universidad Europea de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Studies Centre in Applied Combat (CESCA), Toledo, Spain
| | - Juan Mielgo-Ayuso
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Burgos, Burgos, Spain
| | - Domingo Jesús Ramos-Campo
- LFE Research Group, Department of Health and Human Performance, Faculty of Physical Activity and Sport Science-INEF, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Ismael Martínez-Guardado
- BRABE Group, Department of Psychology, Faculty of Life and Natural Sciences, Universidad Camilo José Cela, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Laura Redondo-Flórez
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Universidad Europea de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Jose Francisco Tornero-Aguilera
- Faculty of Sports Sciences, Universidad Europea de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Studies Centre in Applied Combat (CESCA), Toledo, Spain
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Effects of Allium cepa and Its Constituents on Respiratory and Allergic Disorders: A Comprehensive Review of Experimental and Clinical Evidence. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2021; 2021:5554259. [PMID: 34552650 PMCID: PMC8452398 DOI: 10.1155/2021/5554259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2021] [Revised: 03/10/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
The health benefits of Allium cepa (A. cepa) have been proclaimed for centuries. Various pharmacological and therapeutic effects on respiratory, allergic, and immunologic disorders are shown by A. cepa and its constituents. Flavonoids such as quercetin and kaempferol, alk(en)yl cysteine sulfoxides including S-methyl cysteine sulfoxide and S-propyl cysteine sulfoxide, cycloalliin, thiosulfinates, and sulfides are the main compounds of the plant. A. cepa displays broad-spectrum pharmacological activities including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antihypertensive, and antidiabetic effects. Our objective in this review is to present the effects of A. cepa and its constituents on respiratory, allergic, and immunologic disorders. Different online databases were searched to find articles related to the effect of A. cepa extracts and its constituents on respiratory, allergic, and immunologic disorders until the end of December 2020 using keywords such as onion, A. cepa, constituents of A. cepa, therapeutic effects and pharmacological effects, and respiratory, allergic, and immunologic disorders. Extracts and constituents of A. cepa showed tracheal smooth muscle relaxant effects, indicating possible bronchodilator activities or relieving effects on obstructive respiratory diseases. In experimental animal models of different respiratory diseases, the preventive effect of various extracts and constituents of A. cepa was induced by their antioxidant, immunomodulatory, and anti-inflammatory effects. The preventive effects of the plant and its components on lung disorders induced by exposure to noxious agents as well as lung cancer, lung infection, and allergic and immunologic disorders were also indicated in the experimental and clinical studies. Therefore, this review may be considered a scientific basis for development of therapies using this plant, to improve respiratory, allergic, and immunologic disorders.
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Chakraborty AJ, Mitra S, Tallei TE, Tareq AM, Nainu F, Cicia D, Dhama K, Emran TB, Simal-Gandara J, Capasso R. Bromelain a Potential Bioactive Compound: A Comprehensive Overview from a Pharmacological Perspective. Life (Basel) 2021; 11:317. [PMID: 33917319 PMCID: PMC8067380 DOI: 10.3390/life11040317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2021] [Revised: 03/26/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Bromelain is an effective chemoresponsive proteolytic enzyme derived from pineapple stems. It contains several thiol endopeptidases and is extracted and purified via several methods. It is most commonly used as an anti-inflammatory agent, though scientists have also discovered its potential as an anticancer and antimicrobial agent. It has been reported as having positive effects on the respiratory, digestive, and circulatory systems, and potentially on the immune system. It is a natural remedy for easing arthritis symptoms, including joint pain and stiffness. This review details bromelain's varied uses in healthcare, its low toxicity, and its relationship to nanoparticles. The door of infinite possibilities will be opened up if further extensive research is carried out on this pineapple-derived enzyme.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arka Jyoti Chakraborty
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Dhaka, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh; (A.J.C.); (S.M.)
| | - Saikat Mitra
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Dhaka, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh; (A.J.C.); (S.M.)
| | - Trina E. Tallei
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Universitas Sam Ratulangi, Manado 95115, Indonesia;
| | - Abu Montakim Tareq
- Department of Pharmacy, International Islamic University Chittagong, Chittagong 4318, Bangladesh;
| | - Firzan Nainu
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Hasanuddin University, Makassar, Sulawesi Selatan 90245, Indonesia;
| | - Donatella Cicia
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy;
| | - Kuldeep Dhama
- Division of Pathology, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly 243122, India
| | - Talha Bin Emran
- Department of Pharmacy, BGC Trust University Bangladesh, Chittagong 4381, Bangladesh
| | - Jesus Simal-Gandara
- Nutrition and Bromatology Group, Department of Analytical and Food Chemistry, Faculty of Food Science and Technology, University of Vigo—Ourense Campus, E32004 Ourense, Spain
| | - Raffaele Capasso
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, 80055 Portici, Italy
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Lans C. Do recent research studies validate the medicinal plants used in British Columbia, Canada for pet diseases and wild animals taken into temporary care? JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2019; 236:366-392. [PMID: 30772483 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2019.02.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2018] [Revised: 02/13/2019] [Accepted: 02/13/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE There are insufficient safe and effective treatments for chronic pain in pets. In cases such as osteoarthritis there is no commercially available cure and veterinarians use NSAIDs to manage pain. Pet owners may have to plan for a lifetime of plant-based treatment for the conditions that lead to chronic pain in pets. Phytopharmacotherapies have the advantage of being less toxic, cheap or free, readily available, are more likely to be safe for long-term use and have the potential to reset the immune system to normal functioning. AIM OF THE STUDY To examine the recently published medicinal plant research that matches unpublished data on ethnoveterinary medicines (EVM) used for pets in Canada (British Columbia) to see if the EVM data can provide a lead to the development of necessary drugs. MATERIALS AND METHODS In 2003 semi-structured interviews were conducted with 60 participants who were organic farmers or holisitic medicinal/veterinary practitioners obtained using a purposive sample. A draft manual prepared from the data was then evaluated by participants at a participatory workshop that discussed the plant-based treatments. A copy of the final version of the manual was given to all research participants. In 2018, the recently published research matching the EVM data was reviewed to see if the EVM practices could serve as a lead for further research. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION Medicinal plants are used to treat a range of conditions. The injuries treated in pets in British Columbia included abscesses (resulting from an initial injury), sprains and abrasions. Dogs were also treated with medicinal plants for rheumatoid arthritis, joint pain and articular cartilage injuries. More than 40 plants were used. Anal gland problems were treated with Allium sativum L., Aloe vera L., Calendula officinalis L., Plantago major L., Ulmus fulva Michx., Urtica dioica L. and Usnea longissima Ach. Arctium lappa, Hydrangea arborescens and Lactuca muralis were used for rheumatoid arthritis and joint pain in pets. Asthma was treated with: Linum usitatissimum L., Borago officinalis L., Verbascum thapsus L., Cucurbita pepo L., Lobelia inflata L., and Zingiber officinale Roscoe. Pets with heart problems were treated with Crataegus oxyacantha L., Cedronella canariensis (L.) Willd. ex Webb & Berth, Equisetum palustre L., Cypripedium calceolus L., Pinus ponderosa Douglas ex Lawson, Humulus lupulus L., Valeriana officinalis L., Lobelia inflata L., Stachys officinalis (L.) Trev., and Viscum album L. The following plants were used for epilepsy, motion sickness and anxiety- Avena sativa L., Valeriana officinalis, Lactuca muralis (L.) Fresen., Scutellaria lateriflora L., Satureja hortensis L., and Passiflora incarnata L. Plants used for cancer treatment included Phytolacca decandra, Ganoderma lucidum, Lentinula edodes, Rumex acetosella, Arctium lappa, Ulmus fulva, Rheum palmatum, Frangula purshiana, Zingiber officinale, Glycyrrhiza glabra, Ulmus fulva, Althea officinalis, Rheum palmatum, Rumex crispus and Plantago psyllium. Trifolium pratense was used for tumours in the prostate gland. Also used were Artemisia annua, Taraxacum officinale and Rumex crispus. This review of plants used in EVM was possible because phytotherapy research of the plants described in this paper has continued because few new pharmaceutical drugs have been developed for chronic pain and because treatments like glucocorticoid therapy do not heal. Phytotherapuetic products are also being investigated to address the overuse of antibiotics. There have also been recent studies conducted on plant-based functional foods and health supplements for pets, however there are still gaps in the knowledge base for the plants Stillingia sylvatica, Verbascum thapsus, Yucca schidigera and Iris versicolor and these need further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheryl Lans
- Institute for Ethnobotany and Zoopharmacognosy (IEZ), Rijksstraatweg 158A, 6573 DG Beek, the Netherlands.
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Abstract
Allergic asthma refers to a chronic reversible bronchoconstriction influenced by an allergic trigger, leading to symptoms of cough, wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness. Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis is a complex hypersensitivity reaction, often in patients with asthma or cystic fibrosis, occurring when bronchi become colonized by Aspergillus species. The clinical picture is dominated by asthma complicated by recurrent episodes of bronchial obstruction, fever, malaise, mucus production, and peripheral blood eosinophilia. Hypersensitivity pneumonitis is a syndrome associated with lung inflammation from the inhalation of airborne antigens, such as molds and dust.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason Raymond Woloski
- Department of Family Medicine, Penn State Hershey Medical Center, 500 University Drive, H154, PO Box 850, Hershey, PA 17033-0850, USA.
| | - Skye Heston
- Department of Family Medicine, Penn State Hershey Medical Center, 500 University Drive, H154, PO Box 850, Hershey, PA 17033-0850, USA
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Mukherjee PK, Esper F, Buchheit K, Arters K, Adkins I, Ghannoum MA, Salata RA. Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial to assess the safety and effectiveness of a novel dual-action oral topical formulation against upper respiratory infections. BMC Infect Dis 2017; 17:74. [PMID: 28088167 PMCID: PMC5237564 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-016-2177-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2016] [Accepted: 12/27/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Current prevention options for upper respiratory infections (URIs) are not optimal. We conducted a randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled pilot clinical trial to evaluate the safety and efficacy of ARMS-I™ (currently marketed as Halo™) in the prevention of URIs. Methods ARMS-I is patented novel formulation for the prevention and treatment of influenza, comprising a broad-spectrum antimicrobial agent (cetylpyridinium chloride, CPC) and components (glycerin and xanthan gum) that form a barrier on the host mucosa, thus preventing viral contact and invasion. Healthy adults (18–45 years of age) were randomized into ARMS-I or placebo group (50 subjects each). The drug was sprayed intra-orally (3× daily) for 75 days. The primary objectives were to establish whether ARMS-I decreased the frequency, severity or duration of URIs. Secondary objectives were to evaluate safety, tolerability, rate of virus detection, acceptability and adherence; effect on URI-associated absenteeism and medical visits; and effect of prior influenza vaccination on study outcomes. Results Of the 94 individuals who completed the study (placebo: n = 44, ARMS-I: n = 50), six presented with confirmed URI (placebo: 4, ARMS-I: 2), representing a 55% relative reduction, albeit this was statistically not significant). Influenza, coronavirus or rhinovirus were detected in three participants; all in the placebo group. Moreover, frequency of post-treatment exit visits was reduced by 55% in ARMS-I compared to the placebo group (N = 4 and 2, respectively). Fever was reported only in the placebo group. ARMS-I significantly reduced the frequency and severity of cough and sore throat, and duration of cough (P ≤ .019 for all comparisons). ARMS-I was safe, well tolerated, had high acceptability and high adherence to medication use. Medical visits occurred only in the placebo group while absenteeism did not differ between the two arms. Prior influenza vaccination had no effect on study outcome. Conclusions This randomized proof-of-concept clinical trial demonstrated that ARMS-I tended to provide protection against URIs in the enrolled study participants, while reducing severity and duration of cough and sore throat. A clinical trial with a larger number of study participants is warranted. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02644135 (retrospectively registered). Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12879-016-2177-8) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pranab K Mukherjee
- Center for Medical Mycology, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center and Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Frank Esper
- Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center and Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, USA
| | - Ken Buchheit
- Division of Infectious Diseases and HIV Medicine, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center and Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
| | - Karen Arters
- Division of Infectious Diseases and HIV Medicine, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center and Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
| | - Ina Adkins
- Division of Infectious Diseases and HIV Medicine, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center and Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
| | - Mahmoud A Ghannoum
- Center for Medical Mycology, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center and Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Robert A Salata
- Division of Infectious Diseases and HIV Medicine, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center and Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA.
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Srikanth S, Chen Z. Plant Protease Inhibitors in Therapeutics-Focus on Cancer Therapy. Front Pharmacol 2016; 7:470. [PMID: 28008315 PMCID: PMC5143346 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2016.00470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2016] [Accepted: 11/18/2016] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Plants are known to have many secondary metabolites and phytochemical compounds which are highly explored at biochemical and molecular genetics level and exploited enormously in the human health care sector. However, there are other less explored small molecular weight proteins, which inhibit proteases/proteinases. Plants are good sources of protease inhibitors (PIs) which protect them against diseases, insects, pests, and herbivores. In the past, proteinaceous PIs were considered primarily as protein-degrading enzymes. Nevertheless, this view has significantly changed and PIs are now treated as very important signaling molecules in many biological activities such as inflammation, apoptosis, blood clotting and hormone processing. In recent years, PIs have been examined extensively as therapeutic agents, primarily to deal with various human cancers. Interestingly, many plant-based PIs are also found to be effective against cardiovascular diseases, osteoporosis, inflammatory diseases and neurological disorders. Several plant PIs are under further evaluation in in vitro clinical trials. Among all types of PIs, Bowman-Birk inhibitors (BBI) have been studied extensively in the treatment of many diseases, especially in the field of cancer prevention. So far, crops such as beans, potatoes, barley, squash, millet, wheat, buckwheat, groundnut, chickpea, pigeonpea, corn, and pineapple have been identified as good sources of PIs. The PI content of such foods has a significant influence on human health disorders, particularly in the regions where people mostly depend on these kind of foods. These natural PIs vary in concentration, protease specificity, heat stability, and sometimes several PIs may be present in the same species or tissue. However, it is important to carry out individual studies to identify the potential effects of each PI on human health. PIs in plants make them incredible sources to determine novel PIs with specific pharmacological and therapeutic effects due to their peculiarity and superabundance.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Zhong Chen
- Natural Sciences and Science Education, National Institute of Education, Nanyang Technological UniversitySingapore, Singapore
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Seok H, Yoon JH, Won JU, Lee W, Lee JH, Jung PK, Roh J. Concealing Emotions at Work Is Associated with Allergic Rhinitis in Korea. TOHOKU J EXP MED 2016; 238:25-32. [PMID: 26666368 DOI: 10.1620/tjem.238.25] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Concealing emotions at work can cause considerable psychological stress. While there is extensive research on the adverse health effects of concealing emotions and the association between allergic diseases and stress, research has not yet investigated whether concealing emotions at work is associated with allergic rhinitis. Allergic rhinitis is a common disease in many industrialized countries, and its prevalence is increasing. Thus, our aim was to determine the strength of this association using data from three years (2007-2009) of the 4th Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Participants (aged 20-64) were 8,345 individuals who were economically active and who had completed the questionnaire items on concealing emotions at work. Odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) were calculated for allergic rhinitis using logistic regression models. Among all participants, 3,140 subjects (37.6%) reported concealing their emotions at work: 1,661 men and 1,479 women. The OR (95% CIs) for allergic rhinitis among those who concealed emotions at work versus those who did not was 1.318 (1.148-1.512). Stratified by sex, the OR (95% CIs) was 1.307 (1.078-1.585) among men and 1.346 (1.105-1.639) among women. Thus, individuals who concealed their emotions at work were significantly more likely to have a diagnosis of AR in comparison to those who did not. Because concealing emotions at work has adverse health effects, labor policies that aim to reduce this practice are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongdeok Seok
- Graduate School of Public Health, Yonsei University College of Medicine
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Chen M, Xiao Y, Liu Y, Peng Y, He J, Zhang Y, Du L. The quality analysis of literature retrievals of systematic reviews for traditional Chinese medicine. J Evid Based Med 2015; 8:42-52. [PMID: 25822779 DOI: 10.1111/jebm.12139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The literature retrievals are still the main problems which limit the quality of systematic review (SR) for traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), and there were still no comprehensive analyses for these problems. The aim of this study is to analyze these problems to guide future SRs for TCM. METHODS The Cochrane Library (Issue 2, 2009) and the Chinese BioMedical Database (CBM, 1978- 2009.7.31) were comprehensively searched to identify the SRs of TCM. The native literature retrieval rate of the first author, the characteristics of the included databases, the number of the included database, the reporting of literature retrieval strategy, and the reporting of adjuvant search for both the SRs from the CBM and Cochrane Library were analyzed. RESULTS A total of 341 SRs were included in our analyses, including 245 from the CBM and 96 from the CL. The Chinese-authored SRs ranked the first in median retrieval rate (100%). The Cochrane SRs were significantly superior than the CBM SRs: more searched databases (media: 4 vs. 6, P < 0.001), more precision of retrieval time, more conducting gray literatures searches (47.92% vs. 20.41%) and handing searches (57.29% vs. 54.69%), and more reported retrieval strategies (66.67% vs. 8.16%). CONCLUSIONS There were significant problems in the literature retrieval of SRs for TCM. In future, when performing any SRs for TCM, sufficient and proper databases, clearly searching strategies and times, proper adjuvant retrievals should be reported. Cochrane SRs might be a better choice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Chen
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, The Third People's Hospital of Chengdu, Chengdu, China
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10
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Abstract
Drugs based on herbs have become a common form of therapy as well as for prophylaxis because they are often perceived as being natural and therefore harmless. Today they are one of the hottest trends and most sought after in the field of nutrition or herbal therapeutics. As the use of complementary medicine grows, so does the knowledge that many compounds in common use not only have a significant effect on the body but may also interact with pharmaceuticals and also with other alternative products. Concurrent use of herbs with drugs may mimic, magnify, or oppose the effect of drugs leading to herb-drug interactions. Currently, there is very little information published on herb-herb or herb-drug interactions as compared to the use of herbs which is progressively growing across the world. Many reports of herb-drug interactions are sketchy and lack laboratory analysis of suspect preparations. Health-care practitioners should caution patients against mixing herbs and pharmaceutical drugs. The article reviews the recent literature on the adverse effects of herbal remedies including the most widely sold herbal medicinal products, like liquorice, garlic, ginger, green tea, and turmeric, etc., and reinforce the safety aspect of herbal products, which are considered to be relatively safe by common people.
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Affiliation(s)
- Divya Singh
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Babu Banarasi Das National Institute of Technology and Management, Dr. Akhilesh Das Nagar, Lucknow, India
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11
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Massey PB. Prescribing Movement Therapies. Integr Med (Encinitas) 2012. [DOI: 10.1016/b978-1-4377-1793-8.00074-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Sagdic A, Sener O, Bulucu F, Karadurmus N, Özel H, Yamanel L, Tasci C, Naharci I, Ocal R, Aydin A. Oxidative stress status and plasma trace elements in patients with asthma or allergic rhinitis. Allergol Immunopathol (Madr) 2011; 39:200-5. [PMID: 21550164 DOI: 10.1016/j.aller.2010.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2010] [Revised: 06/29/2010] [Accepted: 07/05/2010] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION This study was conducted to evaluate the oxidant/antioxidant balance (oxidative stress status) and plasma essential trace element levels in patients with bronchial asthma or allergic rhinitis. METHODS A total of 94 individuals consisting of 19 allergic asthmatics; 17 non-allergic asthmatics; 22 patients with allergic rhinitis; and 36 healthy control people were enrolled into this study. Superoxide dismutase (CuZnSOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activity as antioxidant defence mechanism parameters, along with malondialdehyde (MDA) as a marker of lipid peroxidation, were determined in erythrocytes of patient groups and controls. Plasma copper and zinc levels were also determined in all groups. RESULTS CuZnSOD activity was significantly lower in all groups of patients (p<0.001 for allergic asthmatics, p=0.008 for allergic rhinitis patients, and p<0.001 for non-allergic asthmatics) when compared to those of controls. Erythrocyte GSH-Px enzyme activity was not different when compared to that of the control group. Similarly, the patient groups had no difference from those of the controls with respect to erythrocyte MDA levels. While plasma Cu levels in all asthmatic patients were not different from those of the controls, allergic rhinitis patients had significantly elevated (p<0.001) Cu levels compared to those of the controls. No statistically significant difference was established between patient groups and controls with respect to plasma zinc levels. CONCLUSION While defective CuZnSOD activity observed in all patients groups was expected to cause an increase in lipid peroxidation indicated by high MDA levels in these patients groups, the fact that MDA levels were not different from those of controls in all patient groups indicates that other components of anti-oxidant defence system preserve their functions in these patients. On the other hand, statistically significant difference between all patients groups and controls with respect to trace elements was only observed in allergic rhinitis patients who had higher levels of Cu than those of controls.
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Abstract
Allergy describes a constellation of clinical diseases that affect up to 30% of the world's population. It is characterized by production of allergen-specific IgE, which binds to mast cells and initiates a cascade of molecular and cellular events that affect the respiratory tract (rhinitis and asthma), skin (dermatitis, urticaria), and multiple systems (anaphylaxis) in response to a variety of allergens including pollens, mold spores, animal danders, insect stings, foods, and drugs. The underlying pathophysiology involves immunoregulatory dysfunctions similar to those noted in highly stressed populations. The relationships in terms of potential for intervention are discussed.
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Ulbricht C, Chao W, Clark A, Cook D, Cormier T, Costa D, Culwell S, Gombaut F, Isaac R, Rusie E, Zhou S, Conquer J, Ernst E. Oscillococcinum: An Evidence-Based Systematic Review by the Natural Standard Research Collaboration. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2011. [DOI: 10.1089/act.2011.17107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Catherine Ulbricht
- The Natural Standard Research Collaboration, is a senior attending pharmacist at Massachusetts General Hospital, and is an adjunct/assistant clinical professor at many universities
| | - Wendy Chao
- a science editor at the Natural Standard Research Collaboraion, in Somerville, Massachusetts
| | - Allison Clark
- an editorial assistant at the Natural Standard Research Collaboraion, in Somerville, Massachusetts
| | - Devin Cook
- an editorial assistant at the Natural Standard Research Collaboraion, in Somerville, Massachusetts
| | - Tiffany Cormier
- an editorial assistant at the Natural Standard Research Collaboraion, in Somerville, Massachusetts
| | - Dawn Costa
- a publishing editor at the Natural Standard Research Collaboraion, in Somerville, Massachusetts
| | - Samantha Culwell
- an associate clinical editor at the Natural Standard Research Collaboraion, in Somerville, Massachusetts
| | - Florie Gombaut
- an editorial assistant at the Natural Standard Research Collaboraion, in Somerville, Massachusetts
| | - Richard Isaac
- a copyeditor at the Natural Standard Research Collaboraion, in Somerville, Massachusetts
| | - Erica Rusie
- an associate clinical editor at the Natural Standard Research Collaboraion, in Somerville, Massachusetts
| | - Sara Zhou
- an associate clinical editor at the Natural Standard Research Collaboraion, in Somerville, Massachusetts
| | | | - Edzard Ernst
- The department of complementary medicine at Peninsula Medical School, in the Universities of Exeter and Plymouth, Plymouth, United Kingdom
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Li L, Werler MM. Fruit and vegetable intake and risk of upper respiratory tract infection in pregnant women. Public Health Nutr 2010; 13:276-82. [PMID: 19552829 PMCID: PMC2808435 DOI: 10.1017/s1368980009990590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The present study evaluated the association between fruit and vegetable intake and the incidence of upper respiratory tract infection (URTI) during pregnancy. DESIGN In a cohort of 1034 North American women, each subject was asked retrospectively about their fruit and vegetable intake during the six months before the pregnancy and their occurrences of URTI during the first half of pregnancy. Multivariable-adjusted hazard ratios (HR) were calculated with Cox proportional hazards models. RESULTS The adjusted HR of URTI for women in the highest quartile (median 8.54 servings/d) v. the lowest quartile (median 1.91 servings/d) of total fruit and vegetable intake was 0.74 (95 % CI 0.53, 1.05) for the 5-month follow-up period and 0.61 (95 % CI 0.39, 0.97) for the 3-month follow-up period, respectively. A dose-related reduction of URTI risk according to quartile of intake was found in the 3-month (P for trend = 0.03) but not the 5-month follow-up. No association was found between either fruit or vegetable intake alone in relation to the 5-month or the 3-month risk of URTI. CONCLUSIONS Women who consume more fruits and vegetables have a moderate reduction in risk of URTI during pregnancy, and this benefit appears to be derived from both fruits and vegetables instead of either alone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Li
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Boston University
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16
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Massey PB. Prescribing Movement Therapies. Integr Med (Encinitas) 2007. [DOI: 10.1016/b978-1-4160-2954-0.50097-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Lee S, Gura KM, Kim S, Arsenault DA, Bistrian BR, Puder M. Current clinical applications of omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids. Nutr Clin Pract 2006; 21:323-41. [PMID: 16870801 DOI: 10.1177/0115426506021004323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent years have brought a resurgence of research interest in fatty acids, with studied fields running the gamut of human disease. This movement has run in parallel with an increased interest in using nutrition modalities as therapeutic measures, as opposed to their conventional role as energy sources. The aim of this manuscript is to provide a basic review of current clinical applications of omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids, with a particular focus on the latter. METHODS A selective review of the voluminous literature, including randomized controlled trials, meta-analyses, population studies, and case reports, was used to compile data and identify trends in pertinent clinical applications of fatty acid therapy. CONCLUSIONS There are a myriad of disorders and maladies that seem to benefit from fatty acid supplementation, specifically omega-3 fatty acids. It has clearly been shown that omega-3 fatty acid supplementation provides a protective benefit in heart disease, and in particular sudden cardiac death. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is another disease entity that has been proven to benefit from this nutrition intervention, with improvement in symptoms and diminished nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID) usage. In addition, many psychiatric disorders, particularly schizophrenia and major depressive disorder (MDD), have shown positive results when supplementation has been used as an adjunct to standard pharmacotherapy. The remainder of clinical applications for omega-3 fatty acids requires further investigation. Specifically, according to preliminary clinical evidence, parenteral administration of fatty acids warrants further study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sang Lee
- Children's Hospital Boston, 300 Longwood Ave., MA 02115, USA
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Demattia A, Moskowitz H, Kemper KJ, Laraque D. Disparities in complementary and alternative medical therapy recommendations for children in two different socioeconomic communities. AMBULATORY PEDIATRICS : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE AMBULATORY PEDIATRIC ASSOCIATION 2006; 6:312-7. [PMID: 17116603 DOI: 10.1016/j.ambp.2006.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2006] [Revised: 08/19/2006] [Accepted: 08/21/2006] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To compare the content, quality, and cost of recommendations for children made by complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) retailers within 2 New York City neighborhoods of divergent socioeconomic status (SES). METHODS Posing as consumers, researchers sought recommendations from CAM retailers for 2 clinical scenarios: 1) a febrile 6-week-old and 2) a 4-year-old with an upper respiratory infection (URI). All retailers selling CAM therapies outside the direction of a licensed provider within East Harlem (EH) and the Upper East Side (UES) were eligible and mapped. The febrile infant scenario was posed at sites in business in March (n = 23) and the URI scenario at sites that remained in business in April (n = 20) of 2004. RESULTS In response to the febrile infant scenario, 33% of UES retailers referred to a MD, 0% to the emergency department, and 47% made other recommendations-of which 43% were not indicated. In EH, 50% referred to a MD, 5% to the emergency department, and 37% made other recommendations. The mean price of UES recommendations was Dollars 9.66, whereas EH was Dollars 2.33 (P = .04). In response to the URI scenario, 93% of UES and 83% of EH retailers made recommendations. The mean price of UES recommendations was Dollars 10.55 while EH was Dollars 4.26 (P = .002). CONCLUSIONS Complementary and alternative medicine retailers made numerous recommendations for children, including some that were contraindicated for age. East Harlem retailers tended to refer an infant with a potentially serious condition to the emergency department or to an MD and made less expensive recommendations than their UES counterparts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Demattia
- Division of General Pediatrics, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, NY 10029, USA.
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19
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Piante medicinali e sistema respiratorio. Fitoterapia 2006. [DOI: 10.1007/88-470-0505-1_26] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Secor ER, Carson WF, Cloutier MM, Guernsey LA, Schramm CM, Wu CA, Thrall RS. Bromelain exerts anti-inflammatory effects in an ovalbumin-induced murine model of allergic airway disease. Cell Immunol 2005; 237:68-75. [PMID: 16337164 PMCID: PMC2576519 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellimm.2005.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2005] [Revised: 10/19/2005] [Accepted: 10/20/2005] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Bromelain, a clinically used pineapple extract and natural product, has reported anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory activities. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of bromelain treatment in an ovalbumin (OVA)-induced murine model of allergic airway disease (AAD). METHODS To establish AAD, mice were sensitized with intraperitoneal (i.p.) OVA/alum and challenged with daily OVA aerosols. Mice were treated i.p. with either saline, 2 or 6 mg/kg bromelain, twice daily for four consecutive days. Bronchoalveolar lavage leukocytes and cytokines, lung histology, airway hyperresponsiveness, and lymphocyte populations via flow cytometry were compared between groups. RESULTS Bromelain treatment of AAD mice resulted in reduced total BAL leukocytes, eosinophils, CD4+ and CD8+ T lymphocytes, CD4+/CD8+ T cell ratio, and IL-13. CONCLUSION Bromelain attenuated development of AAD while altering CD4+ to CD8+ T lymphocyte populations. The reduction in AAD outcomes suggests that bromelain may have similar effects in the treatment of human asthma and hypersensitivity disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric R Secor
- Department of Immunology, University of Connecticut, School of Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA
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Skorohod N, Yeates DB. Superoxide dismutase failed to attenuate allergen-induced nasal congestion in ragweed-sensitized dogs. J Appl Physiol (1985) 2004; 98:1478-86. [PMID: 15608092 DOI: 10.1152/japplphysiol.00910.2004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
We hypothesized that augmentation of antioxidant defenses with exogenous superoxide dismutase (SOD), an enzyme that provides an initial defense against oxidative injury, would attenuate allergen-induced nasal congestion in the canine model of allergic rhinitis. Nasal congestion was evaluated by the measurements of nasal resistance and the volume of the nasal passage. In five nonsensitized dogs, 30,000 U of SOD from bovine erythrocytes delivered by aerosol to the nasal passages before histamine challenge reduced the histamine-induced nasal congestion. At 30 min postchallenge, nasal resistance was 1.14 +/- 0.2 cmH2O.l(-1).min(-1) in the saline pretreatment study vs. 0.36 +/- 0.02 cmH2O.l(-1).min(-1) in the SOD pretreatment study (P < 0.05), and volume of nasal passage was 10.9 +/- 0.5 cm3 vs. 17.4 +/- 1.3 cm3 (P < 0.05), respectively. In five sensitized dogs, however, neither an analogous pretreatment with SOD nor intranasal aerosolized pretreatment with 30,000 U of SOD conjugated to polyethylene glycol attenuated ragweed-induced nasal congestion. Also, systemic application of SOD did not attenuate responses to challenges with histamine and ragweed in nonsensitized and sensitized dogs, respectively. The antioxidant-induced attenuation of nasal congestion in nonsensitized dogs confirms validity of the model and indicates the involvement of free radical-mediated damage in the genesis of the histamine-induced congestion. In sensitized dogs, the data do not support the hypothesis that oxidative stress is a clinically significant component of acute ragweed-induced nasal congestion. The data do not support the use of SOD for acute protection against allergic rhinitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Skorohod
- Dept. of Medicine, M/C 788, Univ. of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
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Bielory L. Complementary and alternative interventions in asthma, allergy, and immunology. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol 2004; 93:S45-54. [PMID: 15330011 DOI: 10.1016/s1081-1206(10)61486-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To review which herbs are most commonly used as complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) for treatment of asthma, allergy, and immunologic conditions. DATA SOURCES A review of the literature was performed using the PubMed and OVID databases searching the keywords asthma, allergy, and CAM to identify studies published between 1980 and 2003 that focused on Echinacea (Echinacea augustifolia, Echinacea pallida, and Echinacea purpurea); garlic (Allium); angelica; chamomile; ephedra; gingko; grape seed extract; licorice root (Glycyrrhiza); St. John's wort (Hypericum); kava kava (Piper); peppermint oil and leaf (Mentha); stinging nettle (Urtica); and ginseng (Panax) published in the English and German literature. STUDY SELECTION Studies included in vitro and in vivo clinical trials and case reports selected according to the expert opinion of the author. RESULTS Echinacea is one of the most common herbs used to treat symptoms of the "common cold" or upper respiratory tract allergies. Although no common drug interactions have been reported, there is a risk of hepatotoxicity, exacerbation of allergies and asthma, and anaphylactic reactions. Garlic is primarily used for cardiovascular health and relief of cough, colds, and rhinitis. Adverse effects commonly include gastrointestinal disturbances, change in body odor through the sweat and breath, and rarely allergic reactions or hypoglycemia. Other CAM agents, including angelica, German chamomile flower, ephedra, gingko, grape seed extract, licorice root, St. John's wort, kava kava rhizome, peppermint, stinging nettle, and ginseng, are also associated with significant adverse effects. CONCLUSION The specialty of allergy and immunology has seen the second largest increase in the popularity of CAM (second only to practitioners who treat lower back pain). Almost all of the CAM interventions have displayed adverse effects, usually in the form of a hypersensitivity reaction. Allergists and clinical immunologists need to become more knowledgeable about CAM so that they can inform patients about the use and possible abuse of these modalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonard Bielory
- Department of Medicine, Pediatrics, and Ophthalmology, Division of Allergy, Immunology, and Rheumatology, UMDNJ-New Jersey Medical School, Newark, New Jersey 07103, USA.
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Muñoz AM, Rey P, Soto-Otero R, Guerra MJ, Labandeira-Garcia JL. Systemic administration of N-acetylcysteine protects dopaminergic neurons against 6-hydroxydopamine-induced degeneration. J Neurosci Res 2004; 76:551-62. [PMID: 15114627 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.20107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The results of several in vitro studies have shown that cysteine prodrugs, particularly N-acetylcysteine, are effective antioxidants that increase the survival of dopaminergic neurons. N-acetylcysteine can be systemically administered to deliver cysteine to the brain and is of potential use for providing neuroprotection in the treatment of Parkinson's disease. However, it has also been reported that an excess of cysteine may induce neurotoxicity. In the present study, we injected adult rats intrastriatally with 2.5 microl of 6-hydroxydopamine (7.5 microg) and N-acetylcysteine (240 mM) or cysteine (240 mM) or intraventricularly with 6-hydroxydopamine (200 microg) and subcutaneously with N-acetylcysteine (10 and 100 mg/kg). We studied the effects of these compounds on both the nigrostriatal dopaminergic terminals and the surrounding striatal tissue. The tissue was stained with fluoro-jade (a marker of neuronal degeneration) and processed by immunohistochemistry to detect tyrosine hydroxylase, neuronal and glial markers, and the stress protein heme-oxygenase-1. After intrastriatal injection, both cysteine and N-acetylcysteine had clear neuroprotective effects on the striatal dopaminergic terminals, but also led to neuronal degeneration (as revealed by fluoro-jade staining) and astroglial and microglial activation, as well as intense induction of heme-oxygenase-1 in astrocytes and microglial cells. Subcutaneous administration of N-acetylcysteine also induced significant reduction of the dopaminergic lesion (about 30% reduction). However, we did not observe appreciable N-acetylcysteine-induced fluoro-jade labeling in striatal neurons or any of the above-mentioned changes in striatal glial cells. The results suggest that low doses of cysteine prodrugs may be useful neuroprotectors in the treatment of Parkinson's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana M Muñoz
- Department of Morphological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
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