Characteristic immunostimulation by angelan isolated from Angelica gigas Nakai

Response surface methodology mediated optimization of phytosulfokine and plant growth regulators for enhanced protoplast division, callus induction, and somatic embryogenesis in Angelica Gigas Nakai

BACKGROUND

Angelica Gigas (Purple parsnip) is an important medicinal plant that is cultivated and utilized in Korea, Japan, and China. It contains bioactive substances especially coumarins with anti-inflammatory, anti-platelet aggregation, anti-cancer, anti-diabetic, antimicrobial, anti-obesity, anti-oxidant, immunomodulatory, and neuroprotective properties. This medicinal crop can be genetically improved, and the metabolites can be obtained by embryonic stem cells. In this context, we established the protoplast-to-plant regeneration methodology in Angelica gigas.

RESULTS

In the present investigation, we isolated the protoplast from the embryogenic callus by applying methods that we have developed earlier and established protoplast cultures using Murashige and Skoog (MS) liquid medium and by embedding the protoplast in thin alginate layer (TAL) methods. We supplemented the culture medium with growth regulators namely 2,4-dichlorophenoxyaceticacid (2,4-D, 0, 0.75, 1.5 mg L- 1), kinetin (KN, 0, 0.5, and 1.0 mg L- 1) and phytosulfokine (PSK, 0, 50, 100 nM) to induce protoplast division, microcolony formation, and embryogenic callus regeneration. We applied central composite design (CCD) and response surface methodology (RSM) for the optimization of 2,4-D, KN, and PSK levels during protoplast division, micro-callus formation, and induction of embryogenic callus stages. The results revealed that 0.04 mg L- 1 2,4-D + 0.5 mg L- 1 KN + 2 nM PSK, 0.5 mg L- 1 2,4-D + 0.9 mg L- 1 KN and 90 nM PSK, and 1.5 mg L- 1 2,4-D and 1 mg L- 1 KN were optimum for protoplast division, micro-callus formation and induction embryogenic callus. MS basal semi-solid medium without growth regulators was good for the development of embryos and plant regeneration.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrated successful protoplast culture, protoplast division, micro-callus formation, induction embryogenic callus, somatic embryogenesis, and plant regeneration in A. gigas. The methodologies developed here are quite useful for the genetic improvement of this important medicinal plant.

The angelica Polysaccharide: a review of phytochemistry, pharmacology and beneficial effects on systemic diseases

Angelica sinensis is a perennial herb widely distributed around the world, and angelica polysaccharide (APS) is a polysaccharide extracted from Angelica sinensis. APS is one of the main active components of Angelica sinensis. A large number of studies have shown that APS has hematopoietic, promoting blood circulation, radiation resistance, lowering blood glucose, enhancing the body immunity and other pharmacological effects in a variety of diseases. However, different extraction methods and extraction sites greatly affect the efficacy of APS. In recent years, with the emerging of new technologies, there are more and more studies on the combined application and structural modification of APS. In order to promote the comprehensive development and in-depth application of APS, this narrative review systematically summarizes the effects of different drying methods and extraction sites on the biological activity of APS, and the application of APS in the treatment of diseases, hoping to provide a scientific basis for the experimental study and clinical application of APS.

Angelica gigas polysaccharide induces CR3-mediated macrophage activation and the cytotoxicity of natural killer cells against HCT-116 cells via NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathways

Angelica gigas (A. gigas) is traditional medicinal herb that mainly exists in Korea and northeastern China. There have been relatively few studies conducted thus far on its polysaccharides and their bioactivities. We purified and described a novel water-soluble polysaccharide derived from A. gigas and investigated its immunoenhancing properties. The basic components of crude and purified polysaccharides (F1 and F2) were total sugar (41.07% - 70.55%), protein (1.12-10.33%), sulfate (2.9-5.5%), and uronic acids (0.5-31.05%) in total content. Our results demonstrated that the crude and fractions' molecular weights (Mw) varied from 42.2 to 285.2 × 103 g/mol. As the most effective polysaccharide, F2 significantly stimulated RAW264.7 cells to release nitric oxide (NO) and express several cytokines. Furthermore, F2 increased the expression of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interferon-gamma (IFN-ɣ), natural killer cytotoxicity receptors (NKp44), and granzyme-B in NK-92 cells and enhanced the cytotoxicity against HCT-116 cells. In our experiments, we found that F2 stimulated RAW264.7 cells and NK-92 cells via MAPK and NF-κB pathways. The monosaccharide and methylation analysis of the high immunostimulant F2 polysaccharide findings revealed that the polysaccharide was primarily composed of 1 → 4, 1 → 6, 1 → 3, 6, 1 → 3 and 1 → 3, 4, 6 galactopyranose residues, 1 → 3 arabinofuranose residues, 1 → 4 glucopyranose residues. These results demonstrated that the F2 polysaccharide of A. gigas which possesses potential immunostimulatory attributes, could be used to create a novel functional food.

A critical review on intestinal mucosal barrier protection effects of dietary polysaccharides

Studies have shown that dietary polysaccharides, which are widely present in natural foods, have an important impact on the intestinal mucosal barrier. Dietary polysaccharides can maintain the intestinal barrier function through multiple mechanisms. The intestinal barrier is composed of mechanical, chemical, immune, and biological barriers, and dietary polysaccharides, as a bioactive component, can promote and regulate these four barriers. Dietary polysaccharides can enhance the expression of tight junction proteins and mucins such as occludin-1 and zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1) between intestinal epithelial cells, inhibit inflammatory response and oxidative stress, increase the growth of beneficial bacteria, produce beneficial metabolites such as short chain fatty acids (SCFAs), and promote the proliferation and metabolism of immune cells. Given the critical role of the intestinal mucosal system in health and disease, the protective effects of dietary polysaccharides may be potentially valuable for the prevention and treatment of gut-related diseases. Therefore, it is of great significance to further study the mechanism and application prospects of the intestinal mucosal barrier derived from plant, animal, fungal and bacterial sources.

Effect of Angelica polysaccharide on mouse myeloid-derived suppressor cells

Angelica polysaccharide (APS) is a polysaccharide extracted from Angelica sinensis and it is one of the main active components of Angelica sinensis. Many studies have demonstrated that APS can promote the activation and function of a variety of immune cells and is recognized as an immune enhancer, but the regulatory effect of APS on myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSC) is still unclear. In this study, we investigated the effects of APS on MDSC proliferation, differentiation and function through in vivo and in vitro experiments. In vitro, our results showed that APS promoted the proliferation, differentiation and immunosuppressive function of MDSC through STAT1 and STAT3 signaling pathways, and positively correlated with the expression level of Mannose receptor (MR, also known as CD206) and in a concentration-dependent manner on APS. In vivo, APS up-regulated T cells, γδT cells, CD8+T cells, natural killer cells, monocytes/macrophages, and granulocytes in the peripheral blood and spleen of mice to varying degrees and was accompanied by the same degree of increase in the proportion of MDSC. That reminds to the clinician that when applying APS as treatment they should pay attention to its possible side effects of increasing the quantity and function of MDSC, in order to increase its efficacy.

Regulation of innate and adaptive immunity using herbal medicine: benefits for the COVID-19 vaccination

Vaccination is a major achievement that has become an effective prevention strategy against infectious diseases and active control of emerging pathogens worldwide. In response to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, several diverse vaccines against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 have been developed and deployed for use in a large number of individuals, and have been reported to protect against symptomatic COVID-19 cases and deaths. However, the application of vaccines has a series of limitations, including protective failure for variants of concern, unavailability of individuals due to immune deficiency, and the disappearance of immune protection for increasing infections in vaccinated individuals. These aspects raise the question of how to modulate the immune system that contributes to the COVID-19 vaccine protective effects. Herbal medicines are widely used for their immune regulatory abilities in clinics. More attractively, herbal medicines have been well accepted for their positive role in the COVID-19 prevention and suppression through regulation of the immune system. This review presents a brief overview of the strategy of COVID-19 vaccination and the response of the immune system to vaccines, the regulatory effects and mechanisms of herbal medicine in immune-related macrophages, natural killer cells, dendritic cells, and lymphocytes T and B cells, and how they help vaccines work. Later in the article, the potential role and application of herbal medicines in the most recent COVID-19 vaccination are discussed. This article provides new insights into herbal medicines as promising alternative supplements that may benefit from COVID-19 vaccination.

Graphical abstract

http://links.lww.com/AHM/A31.

Angelica gigas: Signature Compounds, In Vivo Anticancer, Analgesic, Neuroprotective and Other Activities, and the Clinical Translation Challenges

Angelica gigas Nakai (AGN) root is a medicinal herbal widely used in traditional medicine in Korea. AGN root ethanolic extract dietary supplements are marketed in the United States for memory health and pain management. We comprehensively reviewed the anticancer, analgesic, pro-memory and other bio-activities of AGN extract and its signature phytochemicals decursin, decursinol angelate, and decursinol a decade ago in 2012 and updated their anticancer activities in 2015. In the last decade, significant progress has been made for understanding the pharmacokinetics (PK) and metabolism of these compounds in animal models and single dose human PK studies have been published by us and others. In addition to increased knowledge of the known bioactivities, new bioactivities with potential novel health benefits have been reported in animal models of cerebral ischemia/stroke, anxiety, sleep disorder, epilepsy, inflammatory bowel disease, sepsis, metabolic disorders, osteoporosis, osteoarthritis, and even male infertility. Herein, we will update PK and metabolism of pyranocoumarins, review in vivo bioactivities from animal models and human studies, and critically appraise the relevant active compounds, the cellular and molecular pharmacodynamic targets, and pertinent mechanisms of action. Knowledge gaps include whether human pyranocoumarin PK metrics are AGN dose dependent and subjected to metabolic ceiling, or metabolic adaptation after repeated use. Critical clinical translation challenges include sourcing of AGN extracts, product consistency and quality control, and AGN dose optimization for different health conditions and disease indications. Future research directions are articulated to fill knowledge gaps and address these challenges.

Utilization of Acupuncture and Herbal Ointment Instead of Skin Graft Surgery for the Treatment of Burn Injuries: A Case Series and Literature review

Skin graft surgery is a standard treatment that increases the survival rate of patients with burn injuries; however, it leaves many sequelae. Conventional external preparations for the treatment of burns also have various side effects. In this retrospective case study, we assessed the cases of four patients with topical third-degree burns who did not wish to undergo the skin graft surgeries recommended by medical doctors and were thus treated using traditional medicine alone. A Korean medicine doctor administered integrative traditional medicine treatment to the patients using acupuncture and herbal ointments. Analysis of the patients' treatment photographs, quantitative evaluation indices, and vivid narratives suggested that their skin recovered well without adverse effects. Traditional Korean medicine treatment, including acupuncture and herbal ointment treatment, can be a new alternative therapeutic strategy for the treatment of patients with topical burns who do not want to undergo skin graft surgery or who have higher risks for poor surgical outcomes.

Therapeutic Potentials of Antiviral Plants Used in Traditional African Medicine With COVID-19 in Focus: A Nigerian Perspective

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic is caused by an infectious novel strain of coronavirus known as severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) which was earlier referred to as 2019-nCoV. The respiratory disease is the most consequential global public health crisis of the 21st century whose level of negative impact increasingly experienced globally has not been recorded since World War II. Up till now, there has been no specific globally authorized antiviral drug, vaccines, supplement or herbal remedy available for the treatment of this lethal disease except preventive measures, supportive care and non-specific treatment options adopted in different countries via divergent approaches to halt the pandemic. However, many of these interventions have been documented to show some level of success particularly the Traditional Chinese Medicine while there is paucity of well reported studies on the impact of the widely embraced Traditional African Medicines (TAM) adopted so far for the prevention, management and treatment of COVID-19. We carried out a detailed review of publicly available data, information and claims on the potentials of indigenous plants used in Sub-Saharan Africa as antiviral remedies with potentials for the prevention and management of COVID-19. In this review, we have provided a holistic report on evidence-based antiviral and promising anti-SARS-CoV-2 properties of African medicinal plants based on in silico evidence, in vitro assays and in vivo experiments alongside the available data on their mechanistic pharmacology. In addition, we have unveiled knowledge gaps, provided an update on the effort of African Scientific community toward demystifying the dreadful SARS-CoV-2 micro-enemy of man and have documented popular anti-COVID-19 herbal claims emanating from the continent for the management of COVID-19 while the risk potentials of herb-drug interaction of antiviral phytomedicines when used in combination with orthodox drugs have also been highlighted. This review exercise may lend enough credence to the potential value of African medicinal plants as possible leads in anti-COVID-19 drug discovery through research and development.

Immunomodulatory Activity in vitro and in vivo of Polysaccharides from Kabuli Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) Hull

Research background

Polysaccharides isolated from plants, fungi and bacteria are associated with immunomodulatory effects. Chickpea hull, which is regarded as food industrial waste, contains considerable amount of antioxidants and bioactive compounds.

Experimental approach

In the present study, we investigated the immunomodulatory activity of polysaccharides from kabuli chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) hull (CHPS). In vitro study was conducted with RAW264.7 cell line while in vivo study was carried out using specific pathogen-free BALB/c mouse animal model.

Results and discussion

In in vitro test with RAW264.7 murine macrophage cells, the three purified fractions of chickpea hull polysaccharides showed potent immunomodulatory activity. Sample CHPS-3 showed stronger effect on cell viability, promoted the phagocytosis index to a greater extent and had the best effect on acid phosphatase activity. Moreover, it was found that CHPS-3 significantly (p<0.05) enhanced the secretion of nitrogen monoxide and cytokine (interleukins IL-6, IL-1β and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α)) levels. In in vivo study, CHPS-3 improved thymus and spleen indices in cyclophosphamide-induced immunodeficient mice. Increased activities of lysozyme, catalase, superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase, serum haemolysin content and total antioxidant capacity were observed, while the amount of malondialdehyde in the liver decreased.

Novelty and scientific contribution

The results suggest that chickpea hull polysaccharides enhanced the immune activity and could be developed as the ingredient of functional foods.

TLR4-dependent effects of ISAg treatment on conventional T cell polarization in vivo

We recently demonstrated that the polysaccharide component of the Korean medicinal herb Angelica gigas (immuno-stimulatory fraction of A. gigas; ISAg) induces anticancer effects in mice by activating natural killer (NK) and natural killer T (NKT) cells. However, it is unclear whether the use of ISAg in vivo can affect the differentiation of conventional T cells. Here, we investigated the effects of ISAg on the activation of conventional CD4⁺ and CD8⁺ T cells. We found that the administration of ISAg induced the polarization of CD4⁺ T cells toward the acquisition of the Th1 phenotype in vivo. Additionally, in mice treated with ISAg, CD8⁺ T cells produced more IFNγ than in control mice treated with PBS. Moreover, treatment with ISAg activated CD4⁺ and CD8⁺ T cells as well as NK and NKT cells, resulting in the secretion of Th1-type cytokines in a toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4)-dependent manner, implying that TLR4 is critical for an optimal Th1 response. Interestingly, ISAg treatment increased the number of Foxp3⁺ Treg cells, but not of Th2 cells, compared to control mice treated with PBS, indicating that ISAg possesses an immunomodulatory capacity that can control adaptive immune responses. Taken together, our results indicate that ISAg possesses a Th1-enhancing activity that could be used to treat Th2-mediated allergic immune diseases such as atopic dermatitis.

Single-dose Intravenous Injection Toxicity of Water-soluble Danggui Pharmacopuncture (WDP) in Sprague-Dawley Rats

OBJECTIVE

This study is to evaluate both the single-dose intravenous injection toxicity and the approximate lethal dose of Water-soluble Danggui Pharmacopuncture (WDP) in Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats.

METHODS

Toxicity experiments were conducted at Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) laboratory in Biotoxtech Co., according to the regulations of GLP. WDP injection of dose 0.125, 0.25, and 0.5 mL/animal were experimental groups and normal saline injection group was control group. WDP and normal saline were injected once to 6-week old 5 male and 5 female SD rats at the tail veins at approximately 2 mL/min. During 14 days after the injection, general symptoms were observed and weight were measured. After the observation period, hematological and blood biochemical examination, macroscopic autopsy, topical resistance test at the injection area were performed.

RESULTS

RThe WDP 0.5 mL/animal injection group in 4 cases of male rats and all cases of female rats showed hematuria 30 minutes after the administration. However, after 1 hour, no more abnormal general symptoms were observed. The WDP did not affect weight, hematological and blood biochemical examination, macroscopic autopsy, and topical resistance test at the injection area.

CONCLUSION

WDP single dose intravenous injection results showed that WDP have no toxic effects and a lethal dose of WDP should be over 0.5 mL/animal in male and female rats under the study condition. So WDP may be safe.

Anti-cancer activity of Angelica gigas by increasing immune response and stimulating natural killer and natural killer T cells

Background

The polysaccharide component of Angelica gigas induces immuno-stimulatory effects on innate immune cells. However, it is unclear whether A. gigas’ adjuvant activity on the immune system can elicit anti-cancer responses.

Methods

A water-soluble immuno-stimulatory component of A. gigas was prepared. How this ISAg modulated the activation of innate immune cells such as dendritic cells (DCs) was examined. ISAg-induced cytotoxic activity via natural killer (NK) and NKT cells was also tested using a tumor-bearing mouse model.

Results

ISAg treatment induced nitric oxide (NO) production and cytokine gene expression involved in innate immune responses. ISAg activated macrophages and DCs to secrete cytokine IL-12, through the TLR4 signaling pathway. IL-12 plays a crucial role in ISAg-mediated NK and NKT cell activation. Thus, the anti-cancer activity of NK and NKT cells induced ISAg-mediated cytotoxicity of B16 melanoma cells in mice.

Conclusions

These results indicated that the natural ingredient, ISAg, has adjuvant activity to induce strong anti-cancer activity of NK and NKT cells in vivo.

Natural Korean Medicine Dang-Gui: Biosynthesis, Effective Extraction and Formulations of Major Active Pyranocoumarins, Their Molecular Action Mechanism in Cancer, and Other Biological Activities

Angelica gigas Nakai (AGN) is a crucial oriental medicinal herb that grows especially in Korea and the Far-East countries. It contains chemically active compounds like pyranocoumarins, polyacetylenes and essential oils, which might be useful for treatment of several chronic diseases. It has been used for centuries as a traditional medicine in Southeast Asia, but in Western countries is used as a functional food and a major ingredient of several herbal products. The genus Angelica is also known as ‘female ginseng’ due to its critical therapeutic role in female afflictions, such as gynecological problems. However, it is well-documented that the AGN pyranocoumarins may play vital beneficial roles against cancer, neurodisorders, inflammation, osteoporosis, amnesia, allergies, depression, fungi, diabetes, ischemia, dermatitis, reactive oxygen species (ROS) and androgen. Though numerous studies revealed the role of AGN pyranocoumarins as therapeutic agents, none of the reviews have published their molecular mechanism of action. To the best of our knowledge, this would be the first review that aims to appraise the biosynthesis of AGN’s major active pyranocoumarins, discuss effective extraction and formulation methods, and detail the molecular action mechanism of decursin (D), decursinol angelate (DA) and decursinol (DOH) in chronic diseases, which would further help extension of research in this area.

Development of botanicals to combat antibiotic resistance

The discovery of antibiotics in the previous century lead to reduction in mortality and morbidity due to infectious diseases but their inappropriate and irrational use has resulted in emergence of resistant microbial populations. Alteration of target sites, active efflux of drugs and enzymatic degradations are the strategies employed by the pathogenic bacteria to develop intrinsic resistance to antibiotics. This has led to an increased interest in medicinal plants since 25-50% of current pharmaceuticals are plant derived. Crude extracts of medicinal plants could serve as an alternate source of resistance modifying agents owing to the wide variety of secondary metabolites. These metabolites (alkaloids, tannins, polyphenols etc.) could act as potentials for antimicrobials and resistance modifiers. Plant extracts have the ability to bind to protein domains leading to modification or inhibition protein-protein interactions. This enables the herbals to also present themselves as effective modulators of host related cellular processes viz immune response, mitosis, apoptosis and signal transduction. Thus they may exert their activity not only by killing the microorganism but by affecting key events in the pathogenic process, thereby, the bacteria, fungi and viruses may have a reduced ability to develop resistance to botanicals. The article is meant to stimulate research wherein the cidal activity of the extract is not the only parameter considered but other mechanism of action by which plants can combat drug resistant microbes are investigated. The present article emphasizes on mechanisms involved in countering multi drug resistance.

Angelica polysaccharides inhibit the growth and promote the apoptosis of U251 glioma cells in vitro and in vivo

BACKGROUND

Angelica sinensis (Oliv) Diels (Apiaceae) is a traditional medicine that has been used for more than 2000 years in China. It exhibits various therapeutic effects including neuroprotective, anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory activities. Angelica polysaccharides (APs), bioactive constituents of Angelica have been shown to be responsible for these effects; however, the utility of APs for the treatment of glioma and their mechanism of action remain to be elucidated.

PURPOSE

In this study, we investigated the inhibitory effects of APs on a glioma cell line and their molecular mechanism of action.

STUDY DESIGN

U251 cells were utilized to confirm the effects of APs on glioma.

METHODS

The human glioblastoma cell line U251 was utilized for both in vitro and in vivo models, in which we tested the effects of APs. Flow cytometry, gene expression analysis, western blotting, and MTT assays were used to elucidate the effects of APs on cell proliferation, cell cycle, and apoptosis.

RESULTS

The results demonstrated that APs significantly inhibited the growth and proliferation of U251 cells and induced their apoptosis. Furthermore, APs effectively reduced the expression of several cell cycle regulators: cyclins D1, B, and E. The apoptosis suppressor protein Bcl-2 was also downregulated, and the expression of pro-apoptotic proteins Bax and cleaved-caspase-3 increased. Additionally, APs inhibited the transforming growth factor (TGF)-β signaling pathway and stimulated the expression of E-cadherin, thus prohibiting cell growth.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, the results indicate that APs attenuate the tumorigenicity of glioma cells and promote their apoptosis by suppressing the TGF-β signaling pathway. The present study therefore provides evidence of the inhibitory effects of APs against glioma progression, and proposes their potential application as alternative therapeutic agents for glioma.

Prescribed Renoprotective Chinese Herbal Medicines Were Associated with a Lower Risk of All-Cause and Disease-Specific Mortality among Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease: A Population-Based Follow-Up Study in Taiwan

Chinese herbal medicines (CHMs) containing aristolochic acid (AA) are associated with chronic kidney disease (CKD), but some prescribed CHMs have been shown to possess renoprotective effects. We conducted a nationwide retrospective cohort study to delineate the role of prescribed CHMs on the CKD progression. Renoprotective CHM (RPCHM) was defined if a CHM contained dong chong xia cao (Cordyceps sinensis (Berk.) Sacc.), da huang (Rheum palmatum L), huang qi (Astragalus membranaceus), dan shen (Salvia miltiorrhiza Bge.), and dong quai (Angelica sinensis (Oliv.) Diels) or belonged to specific mixture herbal formulations (Yishen capsule, Saireito, or Wen Pi Tang). Subjects who had ever used AA-containing CHMs, had cancer or HIV prior to CKD diagnosis, or died within the first month of CKD diagnosis were excluded. A total of 11,625 patients were eligible subjects. The adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) for all-cause mortality was 0.6 (p < 0.001) and 0.6 (p = 0.013) among subjects receiving RPCHMs containing Angelica sinensis and those receiving other RPCHMs, respectively. For CKD-related mortality, the aHR among subjects receiving RPCHMs containing Angelica sinensis was 0.6 (p = 0.025). The use of specific RPCHMs, especially those that contained Angelica sinensis, was associated with a lower risk of mortality among CKD patients.

In vitro and in vivo immunomodulatory activity of sulfated polysaccharide from Porphyra haitanensis

The immunoregulatory activity of sulfated polysaccharide from Porphyra haitanensis (PHPS) was investigated in a RAW264.7 macrophages cell model and a BALB/c murine model. The subpopulation of dendritic cells (DCs) and regulatory T cells (Tregs) from PHPS-treated mice splenocytes were also measured by flow cytometry. Consistent with previous reports, we showed that PHPS increased the phagocytosis of RAW264.7 macrophages, and enhanced the secretion of interleukin (IL)-6, IL-10 and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α). Meanwhile, PHPS induced the production of nitric oxide via the Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) and the Janus kinase (JAK2) signaling pathways in RAW264.7 macrophages. Furthermore, PHPS promoted the proliferation of mice lymphocytes, inducing the generation of TNF-α and IL-10 in vivo, as well as the subpopulation of CD4+ splenic T lymphocytes, DCs, and Tregs. These results indicated that PHPS plays key roles in immunoregulation and may be apply to develop new health foods.

Immunomodulatory and cellular anti-oxidant activities of caffeic, ferulic, and p-coumaric phenolic acids: a structure-activity relationship study

Many studies have been performed to assess the potential utility of natural products as immunomodulatory agents to enhance host responses and to reduce damage to the human body. To determine whether phenolic compounds (caffeic, ferulic, and p-coumaric acids) have immunomodulatory effects and clarify which types of immune effector cells are stimulated in vitro, we evaluated their effect on splenocyte proliferation and lysosomal enzyme activity. We also investigated the activity of natural killer (NK) cells and cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTL). In addition, induction of the cellular antioxidant activity in splenocytes, macrophages, and red blood cells was determined by measuring the fluorescence of the DCF product. The study first results indicated that caffeic, ferulic, and p-coumaric acids significantly promote LPS-stimulated splenocyte proliferation, suggesting a potential activation of B cells, and enhanced humoral immune response in hosts treated by the tested natural products. Phenolic acids significantly enhanced the killing activity of isolated NK and CTL cells but had negligible effects on mitogen-induced proliferation of splenic T cells. We showed that caffeic acid enhances lysosomal enzyme activity in murine peritoneal macrophages, suggesting a potential role in activating such cells. Immunomodulatory activity was concomitant with the cellular antioxidant effect in macrophages and splenocytes of caffeic and ferulic acids. We conclude from this study that caffeic, ferulic, and p-coumaric acids exhibited an immunomodulatory effect which could be ascribed, in part, to their cytoprotective effect via their antioxidant capacity. Furthermore, these results suggest that these natural products could be potentially used to modulate immune cell functions in physiological and pathological conditions.

Extraction, characterization, and biological activity of polysaccharides from Sophora flavescens Ait

Four water-soluble polysaccharides, designated as SF1, SF2, SF3 and SF4, were efficiently extracted from the roots of Sophora flavescens by mechanochemistry under the conditions of rotational speed of 400rpm, grinding time of 10min, powder to ball weight ratio of 1:20, and Na₂CO₃ loading of 7wt%. The results obtained indicated that all of these four acid heteropolysaccharides are composed of rhamnose, arabinose, xylose, mannose, glucose and galactose, with the average molecular weights of 400.9, 98.6, 99.3, 42.7kDa, respectively. In vitro, SF4 showed the most significant scavenging activity on superoxide radical, ABTS, and DPPH radical, while SF3 had the most significant scavenging activity on hydroxyl radical. Immunological tests demonstrated that SF1, SF2, SF3 and SF4 significantly stimulated nitric oxide production without cytotoxicity in macrophages and promoted splenocyte proliferation. These data suggest that the four polysaccharides fractions have the potential as novel natural sources of antioxidative and immunopotentiating agents.

Toll-like receptor 4-related immunostimulatory polysaccharides: Primary structure, activity relationships, and possible interaction models

Toll-like receptor (TLR) 4 is an important polysaccharide receptor; however, the relationships between the structures and biological activities of TLR4 and polysaccharides remain unknown. Many recent findings have revealed the primary structure of TLR4/MD-2-related polysaccharides, and several three-dimensional structure models of polysaccharide-binding proteins have been reported; and these models provide insights into the mechanisms through which polysaccharides interact with TLR4. In this review, we first discuss the origins of polysaccharides related to TLR4, including polysaccharides from higher plants, fungi, bacteria, algae, and animals. We then briefly describe the glucosidic bond types of TLR4-related heteroglycans and homoglycans and describe the typical molecular weights of TLR4-related polysaccharides. The primary structures and activity relationships of polysaccharides with TLR4/MD-2 are also discussed. Finally, based on the existing interaction models of LPS with TLR4/MD-2 and linear polysaccharides with proteins, we provide insights into the possible interaction models of polysaccharide ligands with TLR4/MD-2. To our knowledge, this review is the first to summarize the primary structures and activity relationships of TLR4-related polysaccharides and the possible mechanisms of interaction for TLR4 and TLR4-related polysaccharides.

Decursin from Angelica gigas suppresses RANKL-induced osteoclast formation and bone loss

Osteoclasts are the only cells capable of breaking down bone matrix, and excessive activation of osteoclasts is responsible for bone-destructive diseases. In this study, we investigated the effects of decursin from extract of Angelica gigas root on receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa B ligand (RANKL)-induced osteoclast formation using mouse bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMMs). Decursin inhibited RANKL-induced osteoclast formation without cytotoxicity. In particular, decursin maintains the characteristics of macrophages by blocking osteoclast differentiation by RANKL. Furthermore, the RANKL-stimulated bone resorption was diminished by decursin. Mechanistically, decursin blocked the RANKL-triggered ERK mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK) phosphorylation, which results in suppression of c-Fos and the nuclear factor of activated T cells (NFATc1) expression. In accordance with the in vitro study, decursin reduced lipopolysaccharide (LPS)- or ovariectomy (OVX)-induced bone loss in vivo. Therefore, decursin exerted an inhibitory effect on osteoclast formation and bone loss in vitro and in vivo. Decursin could be useful for the treatment of bone diseases associated with excessive bone resorption.

Angelica sinensis reduced Aβ-induced memory impairment in rats

BACKGROUND

Studies have shown that Angelica sinensis (JiLin AoDong Medicine Industry Groups Co., Ltd., Jilin, China) root (AS) ameliorates various diseases, although its effects in Alzheimer's disease (AD) have not been elucidated.

PURPOSE

The present study examined the effects of AS in a rat model of AD.

METHODS

Positional Aβ injections were administered to rats. The behavioral effects of AS administration were examined using the Morris water maze, and the molecular effects on gene and protein expression, and apoptosis, were determined.

RESULTS

AS reversed the social behavioral impairments observed in this rat model of Aβ-induced memory impairment. Western blot analysis also revealed lower hippocampal levels of Aβ and β-site amyloid precursor protein-cleaving enzyme. Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferased UTP nick end labeling indicated that AS significantly inhibited apoptosis via effects on nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) signaling. Real-time PCR, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and immunohistochemical staining indicated that AS effectively inhibited inflammation and upregulated expression of glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in the hippocampus of this rat AD model.

DISCUSSION

AS effectively rescued the symptoms of AD in a rat model by inhibiting inflammation, apoptosis, and NF-κB signaling pathway.

CONCLUSION

These findings suggested that AS could provide a potential drug for the treatment of AD.

Safety evaluation of Angelica gigas: Genotoxicity and 13-weeks oral subchronic toxicity in rats

As a well-known traditional medicine, Angelica gigas (AG) and its active constituents, including decursin and decursinol, have been shown to possess several health beneficial properties such as anti-bacterial, immunostimulating, anti-tumor, neuroprotective, anti-nociceptive and anti-amnestic activities. However, there is lack of toxicity studies to assess potential toxicological concerns, especially long-term toxicity and genotoxicity, regarding the AG extract. Therefore, the safety of AG extract was assessed in subchronic toxicity and genotoxicity assays in accordance with the test guidelines published by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development. In a subchronic toxicity study for 13 weeks (125, 250, 500, 1000 and 2000 mg/kg body weight, delivered by gavage), data revealed no significant adverse effects of the AG extract in food consumption, body weight, mortality, hematology, biochemistry, necropsy, organ weight and histopathology throughout the study in male and female rats. These results suggest that no observed adverse effect level of the AG extract administered orally was determined to be greater than 2000 mg/kg/day, the highest dose tested. In addition, a battery of tests including Ames test, in vitro chromosome aberration assay and in vivo micronucleus assay suggested that the AG extract was not genotoxic. In conclusion, the AG extract appears to be safe as a traditional medicine for oral consumption.

Cancer Chemoprevention with Korean Angelica: Active Compounds, Pharmacokinetics, and Human Translational Considerations

Angelica gigas Nakai (AGN) is a major medicinal herb used in Korea and several other Asian countries. Traditionally, its dried root has been used to treat anemia, pain, infection and articular rheumatism, most often through boiling in water to prepare the dosage forms. AGN extract or AGN-containing herbal mixtures are sold in the US and globally as dietary supplements for pain killing, memory enhancement and post-menopausal symptom relief. Decursin (D) and its isomer decursinol angelate (DA) are the major chemicals in the alcoholic extracts of the root of AGN. The anti-cancer activity of AGN alcoholic extract has been established in a number of animal cancer models, including a transgenic model of prostate carcinogenesis. Cell culture structure-activity studies have uncovered distinct cellular and molecular effects of D and DA vs. their pyranocoumarin core decursinol (DOH) with respect to cancer cells and those associated with their microenvironment. Pharmacokinetic (PK) study by us and others in rodent models indicated that DOH is the major and rapid in vivo first-pass liver metabolite of D and DA. Cognizant of metabolic differences among rodents and humans, we carried out a first-in-human PK study of D/DA to inform the translational relevance of efficacy and mechanism studies with rodent models. The combined use of vigorous animal tests and human PK studies can provide stronger scientific rationale to inform design and execution of translational studies to move AGN toward evidence-based herbal medicine.

Anti-tumor activity of a polysaccharide from blueberry

Blueberries (Vaccinium spp.) are rich in bioactive compounds. However, the biological activity of polysaccharides from blueberry has not been reported so far. This study evaluated the anti-tumor and immunological activities of a polysaccharide (BBP3-1) from blueberry in S180-bearing mice. The experimental results indicated that BBP3-1 (100 mg·kg⁻¹·d⁻¹) inhibited the tumor growth rate by 73.4%. Moreover, this group, compared with the model control, had shown an effect of increasing both the spleen and thymus indices (p < 0.05), increasing phagocytosis by macrophages (p < 0.05), boosting the proliferation and transformation of lymphocytes (p < 0.01), promoting the secretion of TNF-α, IFN-γ, and IL-2 (p < 0.05) and improving NK cell activity (p < 0.01). From this study, we could easily conclude that BBP3-1 has the ability to inhibit tumor progression and could act as a good immunomodulator.

Immunomodulatory and anticancer effects of Pituranthos tortuosus essential oil

Many studies have been performed to assess potential utility of natural products as immunomodulants to enhance antitumor activity in situ. In this study, an essential oil (EO) from the aerial parts of Pituranthos tortuosus was prepared using hydrodistillation, its composition was characterized, and its immunomodulatory potential was assessed. The results indicated that the EO contained sabinene, α-pinene, limonene, and terpinen-4-ol as major constituents. EO was also found to be able to significantly promote lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated splenocyte proliferation, suggestive of a potential for activation of B cells and enhanced humoral immune responses in hosts given this product. Effects of EO on cell proliferation and apoptosis were also investigated in B16F10 melanoma cells. EO-induced tumor cell growth inhibition was associated with characteristic apoptotic changes in the cells, including nuclear condensation. In conclusion, these data suggested to us that an EO of P. tortuosus could evolve to be a potential medicinal resource for use in the treatment of cancers.

Dunaliella salina exhibits an antileukemic immunity in a mouse model of WEHI-3 leukemia cells

Dunaliella salina has been shown to have antioxidant property and induce apoptotic cell death of human cancer cells in vitro. However, there is no information available on D. salina showing an antileukemia effect or immunomodulatory activity in vivo. This study applied D. salina to syngeneic leukemia-implanted mice (BALB/c and WEHI-3) to investigate its immunological and antileukemia properties. Oral administration of D. salina (184.5, 369, and 922.5 mg/kg) inhibited spleen metastasis and prolonged the survival in BALB/c mice that had received an intravenous injection of WEHI-3 cells. The results revealed that D. salina had reduced spleen enlargement in murine leukemia. It had also increased the population and proliferation of T-cells (CD3) and B-cells (CD19) following Con A/LPS treatment on flow cytometry and MTT assay, respectively. Furthermore, D. salina increased the phagocytosis of macrophages and enhanced the cytotoxicity of natural killer cells on flow cytometry and LDH assay. Moreover, D. salina enhanced the levels of interferon-γ and interleukin 2 (IL-2) but reduced the levels of IL-4 and IL-10 in leukemic mice. In conclusion, these results demonstrated that the application of D. salina had beneficial effects on WEHI-3 leukemic mice by prolonging survival via modulating the immune responses.

Immunomodulatory activity in vitro and in vivo of verbascose from mung beans (Phaseolus aureus)

In the present study, the immunostimulatory activity of verbascose from mung beans (Phaseolus aureus) was evaluated by using in vitro cell models and in vivo animal models. The results of in vitro experiments showed that verbascose could enhance the ability of devouring neutral red of peritoneal macrophages and promote the release of nitric oxide and immune reactive molecules such as interleukin (IL)-6, IL-1β, interferon (IFN)-α, and IFN-γ. Treatment with verbascose at a dose of 200 μg/mL exhibited the best effects. For assay in vivo, administration of verbascose at a medium dose of 90 mg/kg body weight could significantly increase the index of spleen, activity of lysozyme in spleen and serum, hemolysin level in serum, and swelling rate of earlap in the delayed type of hypersensitivity (DTH) of immunosuppressed mice. All of the results suggested that verbascose had potent immunostimulatory activity and could be explored as a potential natural immunomodulatory agent in functional foods.

Antitumor and immunomodulatory effects of weikangfu granule compound in tumor-bearing mice

BACKGROUND

Weikangfu granule compound (WKC) is a drug preparation based on a clinical prescription drug, Weikangfu-tang, which has been found to have therapeutic effects on gastric cancer. WKC comprises 7 components, including polysaccharides, saponin, flavonoids, and essential oil.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to assess the antitumor and immunomodulatory effects of WKC in a tumor-bearing rodent model.

METHODS

Male and female Kuming mice weighing ∼20 g were subcutaneously implanted with sarcoma 180 (S180) tumor cells and randomly assigned to 1 of 5 treatment groups: oral WKC 175, 350, or 525 mg/kg·d, isotonic saline (negative control), or intraperitoneal cyclophosphamide 25 mg/kg·d (positive control). All treatments were administered daily for 10 days. After euthanization on day 11, the mice, tumors, and spleens were weighed. Lymphocyte proliferation and cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) activity were determined using the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide cellular viability assay method. Macrophage phagocytosis was identified using a yeast test.

RESULTS

Fifty mice were included in the study (10 mice were assigned to each group). The tumors of the mice administered WKC 175, 350, and 525 mg/kg·d were significantly regressed, as determined using MICs, compared with those in the negative-control group (P<0.05, P<0.01, and P<0.01, respectively), and the inhibitory rates were 30.43%, 46.72%, and 54.35%, respectively. Compared with those in the negative-control group, CTL activities and lymphocyte proliferations in the presence of concanavalin A were significantly greater in the WKC-treated groups at all doses (CTL activities: P<0.05, P<0.01, and P<0.01, respectively; lymphocyte proliferations: P<0.05, P<0.01, and P<0.01, respectively). In the groups receiving WKC 175, 350, and 525 mg/kg·d, the phagocytic rates were 1.5- to 2.0-fold those in the negative-control group (P<0.05, P<0.01, and P<0.01, respectively). In the groups receiving WKC 175, 350, and 525 mg/kg·d, the phagocytic indexes were 3.7- to 5.0-fold those in the negative-control group (all, P<0.01). In contrast, lymphocyte proliferation in the positive-control group was significantly less compared with that in the negative-control group (P<0.01), but no significant differences were found in CTL activities or macrophage phagocytosis between these 2 groups.

CONCLUSION

The results of this study in a rodent model suggest that WKC exhibited antitumor and immunomodulatory activities in S180-bearing mice, and that WKC improved nonspecific and specific immune functions in mice, such as lymphocyte proliferation, CTL activity, and macrophage phagocytosis.

Application of serum pharmacology in evaluating the antitumor effect of Fuzheng Yiliu Decoction from Chinese medicine

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the feasibility of serum pharmacology in evaluating the antitumor effect of Chinese medicine (CM) of Fuzheng Guben (supporting the healthy energy and strengthening the body's resistance to pathogens), the effects of Fuzheng Yiliu Decoction (FYD), a typical prescription of Fuzheng Guben, on proliferation and apoptosis of hepatoma cells in vitro were observed by two methods with serum pharmacology and traditional pharmacology, respectively.

METHODS

HepG2 cells were treated with FYD-containing serum or crude FYD extract in vitro. The proliferation rate was determined by methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium (MTT) assay. Cell cycle and apoptosis rate was performed by flow cytometry. And the levels of interleukin-2 (IL-2) and tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) in FYD-containing serum were detected by radioimmunoassay.

RESULTS

FYD-containing serum remarkably inhibited proliferation and induced apoptosis of hepatoma cells at least by promoting the production of IL-2 and TNF-α in vivo. On the contrary, crude FYD extract promoted the proliferation and did not induce cell apoptosis.

CONCLUSION

The results by serum pharmacology were accordant with those of our previous animal and clinical trials which indicates that serum pharmacology is a reasonable and feasible method for the evaluation of the antitumor effect of herbs of Fuzheng Guben.

Immunomodulatory and cellular anti-oxidant activities of an aqueous extract of Limoniastrum guyonianum gall

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Many studies have been performed to assess the potential utility of natural products as immunomodulatory agents to enhance host responses to disease/infection/etc. or to ameliorate immune based pathologies (i.e., inflammation, autoimmune associated diseases, etc.). In this particular study, the immunomodulatory potential of gall aqueous extract from Limoniastrum guyonianum Boiss. (Zita) was assessed in vitro.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The effect of G extract on splenocytes proliferation and NK activity were assessed by MTT test. The induction of NO production and the phagocytic activity of macrophages were evaluated in vitro. Activation of the cellular anti-oxidant activity in splenocytes was determined by measuring the fluorescence of the DCF product.

RESULTS

The studies first demonstrated that the extract could enhance lysosomal enzyme activity and nitrite oxide production in murine peritoneal macrophages, suggesting a potential role in activation of these cells. In studies to assess potential effects on humoral immunity, the results indicated that the extract could significantly promote LPS-stimulated splenocyte proliferation implying a potential activation of B-cells and enhanced humoral immune responses in hosts given this natural product. In studies to assess any effects of extract on cellular immunity, the results showed that the extract significantly enhanced the killing activity of isolated NK cells but had negligible effects on mitogen-induced proliferation of splenic T-cells. Considerable effects were also observed on the cellular anti-oxidant activity.

CONCLUSION

We conclude from these studies that aqueous extract from L. guyonianum gall exhibited an immunomodulator effect which could be ascribed, in part, to its cytoprotective effect via its anti-oxidant capacity. Furthermore, these results suggest that L. guyonianum gall extract contains potent components such as flavonoids which should be potentially used to modulate immune cell functions in physiological and pathological conditions.

Pharmacological, antioxidant, genotoxic studies and modulation of rat splenocyte functions by Cyperus rotundus extracts

BACKGROUND

Cyperus rotundus Linn. (Cyperaceae) is a Tunisian medicinal plant used in folkloric (traditional) medicine to treat stomach disorders and inflammatory diseases. The present study explored the analgesic, anti-inflammatory and genotoxic activities of extracts from the aerial parts of C. rotundus. The antioxidant capacity and the modulation of splenocyte functions by these extracts were also investigated in mice. The phytochemical analysis was carried out using standard methods.

METHODS

Aqueous, ethyl acetate, methanol and TOF-enriched extracts (300, 150, and 50 μg/ml) were evaluated for their analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities. 4, 2, and 1 mg/ml of each extract were tested to investigate their effect on lipid peroxidation. The genotoxic study was monitored by measuring the structural chromosome aberrations of mice treated with 300 mg/kg of extract. The proliferation of lymphocytes in the absence and presence of mitogens was assessed at a concentration range 1-1000 μg/ml.

RESULTS

The tested extracts were able to decrease the mouse ear oedema induced by xylene. Furthermore, it was shown that the same extracts reduced the number of abdominal contractions caused by acetic acid in mice, revealing the peripheral analgesic activity of these extracts. It is worth noting that mice treated with doses up to 300 mg/kg b.w. of Cyperus rotundus extracts did not exhibit any toxicity. The tested extracts significantly enhance lymphocyte proliferation at 1 mg/ml.

CONCLUSIONS

It appears that C. rotundus extracts contain potent components such as flavonoids that may potentially be useful for modulating the immune cell functions, provoking analgesic, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.

Immunopontentiating and antitumor activities of a polysaccharide from Pulsatilla chinensis (Bunge) Regel

One water-soluble polysaccharide (PCPw) was isolated and purified from the roots of Pulsatilla chinensis by DEAE cellulose-52 and Sephadex G-100 column chromatography, and its antitumor activity was evaluated on 4T1 tumor-bearing mice through transplantable animal tumor. After 10 days of PCPw (50, 100 and 200 mg/kg) treatment once daily in tumor-bearing mice, PCPw oral administration could not only significantly inhibit the growth of transplantable 4T1 tumor in mice but also promote concanavalin A (Con A), lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated splenocytes proliferation, the serum lysozyme level and 2,4-dinitrofluorobenzene (DNFB)-induced delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) reactions, especially at the dose of 100 mg/kg. Meanwhile, significant improvements in peripheral blood abnormality and anemia were observed in PCPw-treated group. These results suggested that PCPw could improve both cellular and humoral immune response and might be explored as a potential natural antitumor drug.