1
|
Zima K, Khaidakov B, Sochocka M, Ochnik M, Lemke K, Kowalczyk P. Exploring the potency of polyphenol-rich blend from Lonicera caerulea var. Kamtschatica sevast., Aronia melanocarpa, and Echinacea purpurea: Promising anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antiviral properties. Heliyon 2024; 10:e35630. [PMID: 39170264 PMCID: PMC11336823 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e35630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2024] [Revised: 06/25/2024] [Accepted: 08/01/2024] [Indexed: 08/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Previous studies have highlighted the beneficial properties of plants rich in polyphenols, such as Lonicera caerulea var. Kamtschatica Sevast. (LCK), Aronia melanocarpa (AM), and Echinacea purpurea (EP). These plants have demonstrated antioxidant, immunomodulatory, and potential antiviral effects. Thus, the objective of this study was to investigate the impact of the ELA blend, a polyphenol-rich blend containing EP, LCK, and AM, on the cellular mechanisms involved in viral infection. To assess the effects of the ELA blend, various experiments were conducted using A549 cells and a mucociliary tissue 3D model called EpiAirway™. Inflammation and oxidative stress induced by LPS were evaluated through measurements of SOD activity, ELISA, and qPCR analysis. Additionally, antiviral assays were performed in a cell-present environment to examine the blend's effectiveness against HCoV-OC43. The results showed that the ELA blend-treated group exhibited reduced expression of IL1B, CXCL8, ICAM1, MCP1, and RELA in both A549 cells and EpiAirway™. Moreover, the blend enhanced the expression of CAT, HMOX1, SOD1, and SOD2 in A549 cells. The antiviral activity of the ELA blend was also investigated, i.e. its influence on viral replication cycle, to determine the potential as an antiviral preparation. At the highest non-cytotoxic concentration, the ELA blend demonstrated a 87.5 % reduction in viral titer when administered simultaneously with HCoV-OC43. It emphasize potential ability of the preparation to block viral entry to the host cells. At the same time, ELA blend did not express virucidal activity, i.e. inactivation of free viral particles, against HCoV-OC43. In conclusion, ELA blend displayed antiviral activity and exhibited immunomodulatory and antioxidant effects. Based on these findings, it can be concluded that ELA blend has potential for the prevention and treatment of viral infections.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Zima
- AronPharma Ltd. R&D Department, Trzy Lipy Street 3, 80-172, Gdańsk, Poland
- Department of Physiology, Medical University of Gdańsk, Dębinki 1 Street, 80-211, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Barbara Khaidakov
- AronPharma Ltd. R&D Department, Trzy Lipy Street 3, 80-172, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Marta Sochocka
- Laboratory of Virology, Hirszfeld Institute of Immunology and Experimental Therapy, Polish Academy of Sciences, Weigla 12 Street, 53-114, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Michał Ochnik
- Laboratory of Virology, Hirszfeld Institute of Immunology and Experimental Therapy, Polish Academy of Sciences, Weigla 12 Street, 53-114, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Krzysztof Lemke
- AronPharma Ltd. R&D Department, Trzy Lipy Street 3, 80-172, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Paulina Kowalczyk
- AronPharma Ltd. R&D Department, Trzy Lipy Street 3, 80-172, Gdańsk, Poland
- 3P-Medicine Laboratory, Medical University of Gdańsk, Dębinki 7 Street, 80-211, Gdańsk, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Mi J, Wu X, Liang J. The advances in adjuvant therapy for tuberculosis with immunoregulatory compounds. Front Microbiol 2024; 15:1380848. [PMID: 38966394 PMCID: PMC11222340 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2024.1380848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Tuberculosis (TB) is a chronic bacterial disease, as well as a complex immune disease. The occurrence, development, and prognosis of TB are not only related to the pathogenicity of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb), but also related to the patient's own immune state. The research and development of immunotherapy drugs can effectively regulate the body's anti-TB immune responses, inhibit or eliminate Mtb, alleviate pathological damage, and facilitate rehabilitation. This paper reviews the research progress of immunotherapeutic compounds for TB, including immunoregulatory compounds and repurposing drugs, and points out the existing problems and future research directions, which lays the foundation for studying new agents for host-directed therapies of TB.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jie Mi
- Beijing Key Laboratory of New Techniques of Tuberculosis Diagnosis and Treatment, Institute of Tuberculosis Research, Senior Department of Tuberculosis, The 8th Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xueqiong Wu
- Beijing Key Laboratory of New Techniques of Tuberculosis Diagnosis and Treatment, Institute of Tuberculosis Research, Senior Department of Tuberculosis, The 8th Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Jianqin Liang
- Department of Tuberculosis, Senior Department of Tuberculosis, The 8th Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Alharthi F. Chicoric acid enhances the antioxidative defense system and protects against inflammation and apoptosis associated with the colitis model induced by dextran sulfate sodium in rats. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:119814-119824. [PMID: 37930572 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-30742-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
Although several anticolitic drugs are available, their application is associated with numerous side effects. Chicoric acid (CA) is a hydroxycinnamic acid found naturally in chicory (Cichorium intybus), purple coneflower (Echinacea purpurea), and basil with numerous health benefits, such as antioxidative and anti-inflammatory activities. Here, the potential anticolitic efficiency of CA against dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis in rats was examined in rats. Animals were randomly assigned to the following five groups: control, CA (100 mg/kg body weight), DSS [(DSS); 4% w/v], CA + DSS (100 mg/kg), and the 5-aminosalicylic acid (100 mg/kg) + DSS group. The obtained data revealed that CA significantly prevented the shortening of colon length. Meanwhile, the oxidative stress-related enzymes were increased, while malondialdehyde and nitric oxide, were markedly decreased significantly by CA. The results also indicated that CA administration decreased significantly the pro-apoptogenic indices (Bax and caspase-3) and enhanced significantly Bcl-2, the anti-apoptogenic protein. Moreover, DSS caused a significant elevation of pro-inflammatory mediators, including interleukin-1β, tumor necrosis factor-α, myeloperoxidase, cyclooxygenase II, prostaglandin E2, and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma. Interestingly, these changes were significantly decreased following the CA administration. At the molecular level, CA supplementation has increased significantly the expression level of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor-2 (Nrf2) and decreased the expressions of nitric oxide synthase and mitogen-activated protein kinase 14. CA has been determined to significantly lessen DSS-induced colitis by activating Nrf2 and its derived antioxidant molecules and suppressing inflammation and apoptosis cascades associated with the development of colitis; suggesting that CA could be used as an alternative naturally-derived anticolitic agent.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fahad Alharthi
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Taif University, Taif, Saudi Arabia.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Ma T, Dong H, Geng Y, Guo L, Wang X. Preparative separation of eight phenolic acids from Echinacea purpurea L. Moench using pH-zone-refining counter-current chromatography and evaluation of their immunomodulatory effects and synergistic potential. ANALYTICAL METHODS : ADVANCING METHODS AND APPLICATIONS 2023; 15:778-787. [PMID: 36688325 DOI: 10.1039/d2ay01783k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Phenolic acids headed by cichoric acid in Echinacea purpurea L. Moench show remarkable immunomodulatory effects. In this study, pH-zone-refining counter-current chromatography with a two-phase solvent system composed of EtOAc-ACN-H2O (4 : 1 : 5, v/v/v) (TFA (10 mM) in the upper phase and NH3·H2O (30 mM) in the lower phase) was applied to the pre-segmentation enrichment of 3.5 g of a crude sample of Echinacea purpurea L. Moench. Then two fractions of highly concentrated samples were further separated using EtOAc-H2O (1 : 1, v/v) and EtOAc-n-BuOH-ACN-H2O (3 : 1 : 1 : 5, v/v/v/v) solvent systems (TFA (10 mM) in the upper phase and NH3·H2O (10 mM) in the lower phase), separately. As a result, eight phenolic acids including cichoric acid were isolated successfully. Moreover, the immunomodulatory effects of the isolated compounds and the synergy of the binary and ternary compound combinations were first studied using CompuSyn software. And the ternary combination (caffeoyl tartaric acid + feruloyl tartaric acid + cichoric acid) showed a 94.91% synergistic inhibition rate of NO production released by LPS-induced RAW 264.7 cells. This study developed a strategy for the rapid preparative separation and purification of phenolic acids with complex components and large differences in content and provided a theoretical basis for the synergistic use of monomeric compounds in Echinacea purpurea L. Moench.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tianyu Ma
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, 250355, China
- Key Laboratory for Applied Technology of Sophisticated Analytic Instrument of Shandong Province, Shandong Analysis and Test Center, Jinan, 250014, China.
| | - Hongjing Dong
- Key Laboratory for Applied Technology of Sophisticated Analytic Instrument of Shandong Province, Shandong Analysis and Test Center, Jinan, 250014, China.
| | - Yanling Geng
- Key Laboratory for Applied Technology of Sophisticated Analytic Instrument of Shandong Province, Shandong Analysis and Test Center, Jinan, 250014, China.
| | - Lanping Guo
- Resource Center of Chinese Materia Medica, State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Dao-di Herbs, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, China
| | - Xiao Wang
- Key Laboratory for Applied Technology of Sophisticated Analytic Instrument of Shandong Province, Shandong Analysis and Test Center, Jinan, 250014, China.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Bajrai LH, El-Kafrawy SA, Hassan AM, Tolah AM, Alnahas RS, Sohrab SS, Rehan M, Azhar EI. In vitro screening of anti-viral and virucidal effects against SARS-CoV-2 by Hypericum perforatum and Echinacea. Sci Rep 2022; 12:21723. [PMID: 36522420 PMCID: PMC9754313 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-26157-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Hypericum perforatum and Echinacea are reported to have antiviral activities against several viral infections. In this study, H. perforatum (St. John's Wort) and Echinacea were tested in vitro using Vero E6 cells for their anti-viral effects against the newly identified Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) through its infectious cycle from 0 to 48 h post infection. The hypericin of H. perforatum and the different parts (roots, seeds, aerial) of two types of Echinacea species (Echinacea purpurea and Echinacea angustifolia) were tested for their anti-viral activities to measure the inhibition of viral load using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) on cell culture assay. Interestingly, the H. perforatum-Echinacea mixture (1:1 ratio) of H. perforatum and Echinacea was tested as well on SARS-CoV-2 and showed crucial anti-viral activity competing H. perforatum then Echinacea effects as anti-viral treatment. Therefore, the results H. perforatum and Echinacea species, applied in this study showed significant anti-viral and virucidal effects in the following order of potency: H. perforatum, H. perforatum-Echinacea mixture, and Echinacea on SARS-CoV-2 infectious cycle. Additionally, molecular simulation analysis of the compounds with essential proteins (Mpro and RdRp) of the SARS-CoV-2 revealed the most potent bioactive compounds such as Echinacin, Echinacoside, Cyanin, Cyanidin 3-(6''-alonylglucoside, Quercetin-3-O-glucuronide, Proanthocyanidins, Rutin, Kaempferol-3-O-rutinoside, and Quercetin-3-O-xyloside. Thus, based on the outcome of this study, it is demanding the setup of clinical trial with specific therapeutic protocol.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Leena Hussein Bajrai
- Special Infectious Agents Unit-BSL3, King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Sherif Ali El-Kafrawy
- Special Infectious Agents Unit-BSL3, King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmed Mohamed Hassan
- Special Infectious Agents Unit-BSL3, King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmed Majdi Tolah
- Special Infectious Agents Unit-BSL3, King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Rabig, Saudi Arabia
| | - Rabie Saleh Alnahas
- Special Infectious Agents Unit-BSL3, King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sayed Sartaj Sohrab
- Special Infectious Agents Unit-BSL3, King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohd Rehan
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Esam Ibraheem Azhar
- Special Infectious Agents Unit-BSL3, King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Bushmeleva K, Vyshtakalyuk A, Terenzhev D, Belov T, Nikitin E, Zobov V. Antioxidative and Immunomodulating Properties of Aronia melanocarpa Extract Rich in Anthocyanins. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 11:3333. [PMID: 36501372 PMCID: PMC9737032 DOI: 10.3390/plants11233333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2022] [Revised: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
The fruits of Aronia melanocarpa are well known due to their high anthocyanin content that may be effective in preventing certain health disorders arising from oxidative stress. Various polyphenolic compounds such as anthocyanins and flavonoids are responsible for the multiple effects of chokeberry. The aim of this study was to determine in vitro how active the black chokeberry anthocyanins are in scavenging radicals and to evaluate in vivo their immunomodulating capacity. Using the method of column chromatography, we extracted the anthocyanins of black chokeberries, i.e., cyanidin-3-O-galactoside with a purity of over 93.7%. Using HPLC and spectrophotometric analysis, the flavonoid content was determined. Following the analysis of the tests with AAPH and DPPH, the chokeberry cyanidin-3-O-galactoside was found much better than individual anthocyanins in regard to antioxidant capacity. The range of concentrations was revealed, showing the protective effect of anthocyanins on the RPMI-1788 cell culture against cyclophosphamide, as well as against osmotic and peroxide hemolysis. An immunomodulating effect on the functional activity of phagocytes was revealed in vivo as a result of oral administration of chokeberry cyanidin-3-O-galactoside and a mixture composed of cyanidin-3-O-glucoside and cyanidin-3-O-galactoside standards. Consequently, anthocyanins, in particular cyanidin-3-O-galactoside, play an important role, demonstrating immunomodulating effects when chokeberries are consumed.
Collapse
|
7
|
Tráj P, Herrmann EM, Sebők C, Vörösházi J, Mackei M, Gálfi P, Kemény Á, Neogrády Z, Mátis G. Protective effects of chicoric acid on polyinosinic-polycytidylic acid exposed chicken hepatic cell culture mimicking viral damage and inflammation. Vet Immunol Immunopathol 2022; 250:110427. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vetimm.2022.110427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Revised: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
|
8
|
Aucoin M, Cardozo V, McLaren MD, Garber A, Remy D, Baker J, Gratton A, Kala MA, Monteiro S, Warder C, Perciballi A, Cooley K. A systematic review on the effects of Echinacea supplementation on cytokine levels: Is there a role in COVID-19? Metabol Open 2021; 11:100115. [PMID: 34341776 PMCID: PMC8320399 DOI: 10.1016/j.metop.2021.100115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Revised: 07/26/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 is the respiratory illness caused by the novel coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2. Cytokine storm appears to be a factor in COVID-19 mortality. Echinacea species have been used historically for immune modulation. A previous rapid review suggested that Echinacea supplementation may decrease the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines involved in cytokine storm. The objective of the present systematic review was to identify all research that has assessed changes in levels of cytokines relevant to cytokine storm in response to administration of Echinacea supplementation. The following databases were searched: Medline (Ovid), AMED (Ovid), CINAHL (EBSCO), EMBASE (Ovid). Title and abstract screening, full text screening, and data extraction were completed in duplicate using a piloted extraction template. Risk of bias assessment was completed. Qualitative analysis was used to assess for trends in cytokine level changes. The search identified 279 unique publications. After full text screening, 105 studies met criteria for inclusion including 13 human studies, 24 animal studies, and 71 in vitro or ex vivo studies. The data suggest that Echinacea supplementation may be associated with a decrease in the pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-6, IL-8, and TNF, as well as an increase in the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10. The risk of bias in the included studies was generally high. While there is currently no substantive research on the therapeutic effects of Echinacea in the management of either cytokine storm or COVID-19, the present evidence related to the herb's impact on cytokine levels suggests that further research may be warranted in the form of a clinical trial involving patients with COVID-19.
Collapse
Key Words
- ARDS, acute respiratory distress syndrome
- CCL, C–C motif ligand chemokine
- COVID-19
- COVID-19, coronavirus disease 2019
- CSF, Colony-stimulating factor
- Cytokine
- Cytokine release syndrome
- Cytokine storm
- Echinacea
- GM-CSF, granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor
- Herbal medicine
- IFN, interferon
- IL, interleukin
- MCP, monocyte chemoattractant protein
- MIP, macrophage inflammatory protein
- SARS, Severe acute respiratory syndrome
- SARS-CoV-2, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2
- TFN, tumor necrosis factor
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Anna Garber
- Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine, Canada
| | - Daniella Remy
- Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine, Canada
- ph360.me/Shae, Australia
| | - Joy Baker
- Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine, Canada
| | - Adam Gratton
- Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine, Canada
| | | | | | - Cara Warder
- Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine, Canada
| | | | - Kieran Cooley
- Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine, Canada
- University Technology, Sydney, Australia
- National Centre for Naturopathic Medicine at Southern Cross University, Australia
- Pacific College of Health and Science, United States
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Afshari AR, Mollazadeh H, Mohtashami E, Soltani A, Soukhtanloo M, Hosseini A, Jalili-Nik M, Vahedi MM, Roshan MK, Sahebkar A. Protective Role of Natural Products in Glioblastoma Multiforme: A Focus on Nitric Oxide Pathway. Curr Med Chem 2021; 28:377-400. [PMID: 32000638 DOI: 10.2174/0929867327666200130104757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2019] [Revised: 11/07/2019] [Accepted: 11/14/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
In spite of therapeutic modalities such as surgical resection, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy, Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM) remains an incurable fatal disease. This necessitates further therapeutic options that could enhance the efficacy of existing modalities. Nitric Oxide (NO), a short-lived small molecule, has been revealed to play a crucial role in the pathophysiology of GBM. Several studies have demonstrated that NO is involved in apoptosis, metastasis, cellular proliferation, angiogenesis, invasion, and many other processes implicated in GBM pathobiology. Herein, we elaborate on the role of NO as a therapeutic target in GBM and discuss some natural products affecting the NO signaling pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amir R Afshari
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, North Khorasan University of Medical Sciences, Bojnurd, Iran
| | - Hamid Mollazadeh
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, North Khorasan University of Medical Sciences, Bojnurd, Iran
| | - Elmira Mohtashami
- Pharmacological Research Center of Medicinal Plants, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Arash Soltani
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mohammad Soukhtanloo
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Azar Hosseini
- Pharmacological Research Center of Medicinal Plants, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mohammad Jalili-Nik
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mohammad Mahdi Vahedi
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran
| | - Mostafa Karimi Roshan
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | | |
Collapse
|
10
|
Silveira D, Prieto-Garcia JM, Boylan F, Estrada O, Fonseca-Bazzo YM, Jamal CM, Magalhães PO, Pereira EO, Tomczyk M, Heinrich M. COVID-19: Is There Evidence for the Use of Herbal Medicines as Adjuvant Symptomatic Therapy? Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:581840. [PMID: 33071794 PMCID: PMC7542597 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.581840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 122] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2020] [Accepted: 08/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Current recommendations for the self-management of SARS-Cov-2 disease (COVID-19) include self-isolation, rest, hydration, and the use of NSAID in case of high fever only. It is expected that many patients will add other symptomatic/adjuvant treatments, such as herbal medicines. AIMS To provide a benefits/risks assessment of selected herbal medicines traditionally indicated for "respiratory diseases" within the current frame of the COVID-19 pandemic as an adjuvant treatment. METHOD The plant selection was primarily based on species listed by the WHO and EMA, but some other herbal remedies were considered due to their widespread use in respiratory conditions. Preclinical and clinical data on their efficacy and safety were collected from authoritative sources. The target population were adults with early and mild flu symptoms without underlying conditions. These were evaluated according to a modified PrOACT-URL method with paracetamol, ibuprofen, and codeine as reference drugs. The benefits/risks balance of the treatments was classified as positive, promising, negative, and unknown. RESULTS A total of 39 herbal medicines were identified as very likely to appeal to the COVID-19 patient. According to our method, the benefits/risks assessment of the herbal medicines was found to be positive in 5 cases (Althaea officinalis, Commiphora molmol, Glycyrrhiza glabra, Hedera helix, and Sambucus nigra), promising in 12 cases (Allium sativum, Andrographis paniculata, Echinacea angustifolia, Echinacea purpurea, Eucalyptus globulus essential oil, Justicia pectoralis, Magnolia officinalis, Mikania glomerata, Pelargonium sidoides, Pimpinella anisum, Salix sp, Zingiber officinale), and unknown for the rest. On the same grounds, only ibuprofen resulted promising, but we could not find compelling evidence to endorse the use of paracetamol and/or codeine. CONCLUSIONS Our work suggests that several herbal medicines have safety margins superior to those of reference drugs and enough levels of evidence to start a clinical discussion about their potential use as adjuvants in the treatment of early/mild common flu in otherwise healthy adults within the context of COVID-19. While these herbal medicines will not cure or prevent the flu, they may both improve general patient well-being and offer them an opportunity to personalize the therapeutic approaches.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dâmaris Silveira
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Brasilia, Brasilia, Brazil
| | - Jose Maria Prieto-Garcia
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Fabio Boylan
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Omar Estrada
- Biophysics and Biochemistry Center, Venezuelan Institute of Scientific Research, Caracas, Venezuela
| | | | | | | | - Edson Oliveira Pereira
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Brasilia, Brasilia, Brazil
| | - Michal Tomczyk
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Bialystok, Bialystok, Poland
| | - Michael Heinrich
- Pharmacognosy and Phytotherapy, School of Pharmacy, University College of London, London, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Malekmohammad K, Sewell RD, Rafieian-Kopaei M. Mechanisms of Medicinal Plant Activity on Nitric Oxide (NO) Bioavailability as Prospective Treatments for Atherosclerosis. Curr Pharm Des 2020; 26:2591-2601. [DOI: 10.2174/1381612826666200318152049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2019] [Accepted: 02/28/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Background and objective:
Atherosclerosis is one of the leading causes of human morbidity globally
and reduced bioavailability of vascular nitric oxide (NO) has a critical role in the progression and development of
the atherosclerotic disease. Loss of NO bioavailability, for example via a deficiency of the substrate (L-arginine)
or cofactors for endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), invariably leads to detrimental vascular effects such as
impaired endothelial function and increased smooth muscle cell proliferation, deficiency of the substrate (Larginine)
or cofactors for eNOS. Various medicinal plants and their bioactive compounds or secondary metabolites
with fewer side effects are potentially implicated in preventing cardiovascular disease by increasing NO
bioavailability, thereby ameliorating endothelial dysfunction. In this review, we describe the most notable medicinal
plants and their bioactive compounds that may be appropriate for enhancing NO bioavailability, and
treatment of atherosclerosis.
Methods:
The material in this article was obtained from noteworthy scientific databases, including Web of Science,
PubMed, Science Direct, Scopus and Google Scholar.
Results:
Medicinal plants and their bioactive compounds influence NO production through diverse mechanisms
including the activation of the nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) signaling pathway, activating protein kinase C
(PKC)-α, stimulating protein tyrosine kinase (PTK), reducing the conversion of nitrite to NO via nitrate-nitrite
reduction pathways, induction of eNOS, activating the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/serine threonine
protein kinase B (AKT) (PI3K/AKT/eNOS/NO) pathway and decreasing oxidative stress.
Conclusion:
Medicinal plants and/or their constituent bioactive compounds may be considered as safe therapeutic
options for enhancing NO bioavailability and prospective preventative therapy for atherosclerosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Robert D.E. Sewell
- Cardiff School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, CF10 3NB. Wales, United Kingdom
| | - Mahmoud Rafieian-Kopaei
- Medical Plants Research Center, Basic Health Sciences Institute, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Ren QC, Xuan JJ, Che CY, Yan XC, Hu ZZ. Desirable effects of dietary 4-O-methyl-glucuronoarabinoxylan from the Echinacea plant on growth performance, thigh meat quality and development of small intestine in female Partridge-Shank broilers. ANIMAL PRODUCTION SCIENCE 2020. [DOI: 10.1071/an18416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
In this trial we aimed to assess the effects of dietary supplementation of 4-O-methyl-glucuronoarabinoxylan (4OMG) on growth performance, thigh meat quality and small intestine development of female Partridge-Shank broilers. A total of 240 1-day-old female Partridge-Shank broilers were randomly distributed to four groups with three replicates of 20 within each group. Groups received either 0, 15, 20 or 25 g 4OMG/kg DM of diet. During the whole experiment of 60 days, broilers had ad libitum access to water and feed. At pen level, feed intake was recorded daily and broilers were weighed at the start and end of the experiment. For each group, three pens with a total of 20 broilers were randomly selected to determine the thigh meat quality and the small intestine development of broilers. Broilers fed diets with higher 4OMG had greater final liveweight (P = 0.004), daily bodyweight gain (P = 0.004) and gain-to-feed ratio (P < 0.001), muscle pH values (P = 0.031) and redness (P = 0.001), duodenal weight index (P = 0.042), jejunal (P = 0.043) and ileal length (P = 0.049), duodenal (P < 0.001) and ileal villus height (P = 0.008), but lower percentage of dead birds (P < 0.001), drip loss (P = 0.042) and shear force value (P = 0.043) of the thigh muscles. These results indicate that increasing dietary supplementation of 4OMG may improve growth performance and meat quality of female Partridge-Shank broilers through better development of small intestine.
Collapse
|
13
|
Peng Y, Sun Q, Park Y. The Bioactive Effects of Chicoric Acid As a Functional Food Ingredient. J Med Food 2019; 22:645-652. [DOI: 10.1089/jmf.2018.0211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Ye Peng
- School of Food and Biological Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
- Department of Food Science, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Quancai Sun
- School of Food and Biological Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Yeonhwa Park
- Department of Food Science, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Massachusetts, USA
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Effect of Immunomodulatory Supplements Based on Echinacea Angustifolia and Echinacea Purpurea on the Posttreatment Relapse Incidence of Genital Condylomatosis: A Prospective Randomized Study. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2019; 2019:3548396. [PMID: 31111049 PMCID: PMC6487159 DOI: 10.1155/2019/3548396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2018] [Accepted: 02/06/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Introduction. HPV infection is a highly infectious disease; about 65% of partners of individuals with genital warts will develop genital condylomatosis. Only in 20-30% it regresses spontaneously and relapse rates range deeply (9-80%). Echinacea extracts possess antiviral and immunomodulator activities. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of the therapy, using a formulation based on HPVADL18® (on dry extracts of 200 mg Echinacea Purpurea (EP) roots plus E. Angustifolia (EA)), on the posttreatment relapse incidence of genital condylomatosis. Materials and Methods. It is a prospective single-arm study. Patients with a satisfactory and positive vulvoscopy, colposcopy, or peniscopy for genital condylomatosis were divided into two random groups and subjected to destructive therapy with Co2 Laser. Group A (N=64) immediately after the laser therapy started a 4-month treatment with oral HPVADL18®; Group B (N=61) did not undergo any additional therapy. Patients were subjected to a follow-up after 1, 6, and 12 months. Differences in relapse incidence between the two groups during follow-up controls were evaluated by χ2-test; the groups were stratified by age, gender, and condylomatosis extension degree. Results and Discussion. Gender, age, and condyloma lesions' extension degree showed no statistically significant differences between the two trial groups. The relapse incidence differs statistically between the two studied groups and progressively decreases during the 12 months after treatment in both groups. Statistically significant reduction of relapse rates has been shown in Group A in patients over 25 years old. This difference is significant for both men and women. The relapse incidence is superior in case of extended condylomatosis. Conclusions. In conclusion, the presence of a latent infection causes condylomatosis relapse; in order to reduce the relapse risk an induction of a protective immune response seems to be essential to allow rapid viral clearance from genital areas surrounding lesion and treatment zones. Echinacea promotes this process. EP and EA dry root extracts seem to be a valid adjuvant therapy in reducing relapse incidence of lesions in patients treated for genital condylomatosis.
Collapse
|
15
|
Martin TD, Green MS, Whitehead MT, Scheett TP, Webster MJ, Hudson GM. Six weeks of oral Echinacea purpurea supplementation does not enhance the production of serum erythropoietin or erythropoietic status in recreationally active males with above-average aerobic fitness. Appl Physiol Nutr Metab 2019; 44:791-795. [PMID: 30608872 DOI: 10.1139/apnm-2018-0783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of 6 weeks of oral Echinacea purpurea supplementation on serum erythropoietin (EPO) and erythropoietic status. Twenty-four males (mean ± SE; age = 25.2 ± 1.4 years, height = 178.1 ± 1.4 cm, body mass = 78.1 ± 1.6 kg, body fat = 12.7 ± 0.9%, maximal oxygen uptake = 52.9 ± 0.9 mL·kg-1·min-1) were randomly grouped using a matched-pair, double-blind design and self-administered 8000 mg·day-1 of either E. purpurea (n = 12) or placebo (n = 12) for 42 consecutive days. Blood samples were collected prior to supplementation (day 0) and every 2 weeks during the supplementation period (days 14, 28, and 42) and were analyzed for EPO, red blood cell count, hemoglobin concentration, hematocrit, mean corpuscular volume, and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration. Separate 2 × 4 (group × time) factorial ANOVA with repeated measures on time were used to determine statistical differences with significance set at p ≤ 0.05. There were no significant interaction, group, or time effects observed for EPO or erythropoietic status markers for any of the measurement points (p ≤ 0.05). The present study indicated that 6 weeks of oral E. purpurea supplementation in recreationally active males with above average aerobic fitness did not enhance EPO or erythropoietic status. These findings are in contrast with previous reports of E. purpurea supplementation in untrained participants with average fitness levels, but consistent with observations in trained endurance athletes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tyler D Martin
- a Department of Kinesiology and Health Promotion, Troy University, Troy, AL 36082, USA
| | - Michael S Green
- a Department of Kinesiology and Health Promotion, Troy University, Troy, AL 36082, USA
| | - Malcolm T Whitehead
- b Department of Kinesiology and Health Science, Stephen F. Austin State University, Nacogdoches, TX 75962, USA
| | - Timothy P Scheett
- c Department of Health and Human Performance, College of Charleston, Charleston, SC 29424, USA
| | - Michael J Webster
- d College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Valdosta State University, Valdosta, GA 31698, USA
| | - Geoffrey M Hudson
- e Department of Health, Kinesiology, & Sport, The University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL 36688, USA
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Abd-Nikfarjam B, Nassiri-Asl M, Hajiaghayi M, Naserpour Farivar T. Role of Chicoric Acid and 13-Cis Retinoic Acid in Mycobacterium tuberculosis Infection Control by Human U937 Macrophage. Arch Immunol Ther Exp (Warsz) 2018; 66:399-406. [DOI: 10.1007/s00005-018-0511-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2017] [Accepted: 02/22/2018] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
|
17
|
Seckin C, Alpun Kalayci G, Turan N, Yilmaz A, Cizmecigil UY, Aydin O, Richt JA, Yilmaz H. Immunomodulatory effects of Echinacea and Pelargonium on the innate and adoptive immunity in calves. FOOD AGR IMMUNOL 2018. [DOI: 10.1080/09540105.2018.1444738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Nuri Turan
- Department of Virology, Veterinary Faculty, University of Istanbul, Avcilar, Turkey
| | - Aysun Yilmaz
- Department of Virology, Veterinary Faculty, University of Istanbul, Avcilar, Turkey
| | - Utku Y. Cizmecigil
- Department of Virology, Veterinary Faculty, University of Istanbul, Avcilar, Turkey
| | - Ozge Aydin
- Department of Virology, Veterinary Faculty, University of Istanbul, Avcilar, Turkey
| | - Juergen A. Richt
- Department of Diagnostic Medicine and Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, NY, USA
| | - Huseyin Yilmaz
- Department of Virology, Veterinary Faculty, University of Istanbul, Avcilar, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Awaad A, Adly MA, Hosny D. Histological and histopathological studies on the protective role ofEchinacea purpureaextract after intra-testicular injection of magnetic nanoparticles in male albino rats. J Histotechnol 2017. [DOI: 10.1080/01478885.2017.1369210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Aziz Awaad
- Faculty of Science, Department of Zoology, Sohag University, Sohag, Egypt
| | - Mohamed A. Adly
- Faculty of Science, Department of Zoology, Sohag University, Sohag, Egypt
| | - Doaa Hosny
- Faculty of Science, Department of Zoology, Sohag University, Sohag, Egypt
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Yagi H, Tateno H, Hayashi K, Hayashi T, Takahashi K, Hirabayashi J, Kato K, Tsuboi M. Lectin microarray analysis of isolated polysaccharides from Sasa veitchii. Biosci Biotechnol Biochem 2017. [PMID: 28633601 DOI: 10.1080/09168451.2017.1340089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
We report lectin microarray profile of the polysaccharide fraction derived from Sasa veitchii leaf that exhibits anti-influenza activity. This fraction showed higher reactivities with lectins known as binders to oligo-mannose, fucose, or galactose. Our findings along with previously reported monosaccharide components suggest that the polysaccharide can be cross-reactive with cell surface receptors involved in immune system, thereby exerting anti-influenza activity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hirokazu Yagi
- a Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences , Nagoya City University , Nagoya , Japan
| | - Hiroaki Tateno
- b Biotechnology Research Institute for Drug Discovery (BRD) , National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST) , Tsukuba , Japan
| | - Kyoko Hayashi
- c Institute of Life and Health Sciences , Chubu University , Kasugai , Japan
| | - Toshimitsu Hayashi
- c Institute of Life and Health Sciences , Chubu University , Kasugai , Japan
| | | | - Jun Hirabayashi
- b Biotechnology Research Institute for Drug Discovery (BRD) , National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST) , Tsukuba , Japan
| | - Koichi Kato
- a Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences , Nagoya City University , Nagoya , Japan.,e Institute for Molecular Science and Okazaki Institute for Integrative Bioscience , National Institutes of Natural Sciences , Okazaki , Japan
| | - Masamichi Tsuboi
- f Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences , The University of Tokyo , Tokyo , Japan
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Echinacea purpurea root extract inhibits TNF release in response to Pam3Csk4 in a phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase dependent manner. Cell Immunol 2015; 297:94-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cellimm.2015.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2015] [Revised: 06/25/2015] [Accepted: 07/12/2015] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
|
21
|
Pomari E, Stefanon B, Colitti M. Effect of plant extracts on H2O2-induced inflammatory gene expression in macrophages. J Inflamm Res 2014; 7:103-12. [PMID: 25075197 PMCID: PMC4106015 DOI: 10.2147/jir.s61471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Arctium lappa (AL), Camellia sinensis (CS), Echinacea angustifolia, Eleutherococcus senticosus, Panax ginseng (PG), and Vaccinium myrtillus (VM) are plants traditionally used in many herbal formulations for the treatment of various conditions. Although they are well known and already studied for their anti-inflammatory properties, their effects on H2O2-stimulated macrophages are a novel area of study. Materials and methods Cell viability was tested after treatment with increasing doses of H2O2 and/or plant extracts at different times of incubation to identify the optimal experimental conditions. The messenger (m)RNA expression of TNFα, COX2, IL1β, NFκB1, NFκB2, NOS2, NFE2L2, and PPARγ was analyzed in macrophages under H2O2 stimulation. The same genes were also quantified after plant extract treatment on cells pre-stimulated with H2O2. Results A noncytotoxic dose (200 μM) of H2O2 induced active mRNA expression of COX2, IL1β, NFE2L2, NFκB1, NFκB2, NOS2, and TNFα, while PPARγ was depressed. The expression of all genes tested was significantly (P<0.001) regulated by plant extracts after pre-stimulation with H2O2. COX2 was downregulated by AL, PG, and VM. All extracts depressed IL1β expression, but upregulated NFE2L2. NFκB1, NFκB2, and TNFα were downregulated by AL, CS, PG, and VM. NOS2 was inhibited by CS, PG, and VM. PPARγ was decreased only after treatment with E. angustifolia and E. senticosus. Conclusion The results of the present study indicate that the stimulation of H2O2 on RAW267.4 cells induced the transcription of proinflammatory mediators, showing that this could be an applicable system by which to activate macrophages. Plant extracts from AL, CS, PG, and VM possess in vitro anti-inflammatory activity on H2O2-stimulated macrophages by modulating key inflammation mediators. Further in vitro and in vivo investigation into molecular mechanisms modulated by herbal extracts should be undertaken to shed light on the development of novel modulating therapeutic strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elena Pomari
- Department of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, University of Udine, Udine, Italy
| | - Bruno Stefanon
- Department of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, University of Udine, Udine, Italy
| | - Monica Colitti
- Department of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, University of Udine, Udine, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Kim HR, Oh SK, Lim W, Lee HK, Moon BI, Seoh JY. Immune Enhancing Effects of Echinacea purpurea Root Extract by Reducing Regulatory T Cell Number and Function. Nat Prod Commun 2014. [DOI: 10.1177/1934578x1400900422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Echinacea purpurea preparations (EPs) have been traditionally used for the treatment of various infections and also for wound healing. Accumulating evidence suggests their immunostimulatory effects. Regulatory T cells (Tregs) are known to play a key role in immune regulation in vivo. However, there have been no reports so far on the effects of EP on the frequency or function of Tregs in vivo. Therefore, in the present study, we investigated the quantitative and functional changes in Tregs by in vivo administration with EP. The frequencies of CD4+FoxP3+ and CD4+CD25+ Tregs in the spleens of BALB/c mice administered with EP for 3 weeks were investigated by flow cytometry. The suppressive function of CD4+CD25+ Tregs in association with the proliferative activity of CD4+CD25- effector T cells (Teffs) and the feeder function of CD4- antigen-presenting cells (APCs) were analyzed by carboxyfluorescein succinimidyl ester-dilution assay. The results showed a lowered frequency of CD4+FoxP3+ and CD4+CD25+ Tregs and attenuated suppressive function of CD4+CD25+ Tregs, while the feeder function of APCs was enhanced in the EP-administered mice. On the other hand, the proliferative activity of Teffs was not significantly different in the EP-administered mice. The results suggest that decreased number and function of Tregs, in association with the enhanced feeder function of APCs, may contribute to the enhancement of immune function by EP.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hyung-Ran Kim
- Department of Microbiology, Graduate School of Medicine, Seoul 158-710, Korea
| | - Sei-Kwan Oh
- Molecular Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Seoul 158-710, Korea
| | - Woosung Lim
- Surgery, Ewha Womans University Graduate School of Medicine, Seoul 158-710, Korea
| | - Hyeon Kook Lee
- Surgery, Ewha Womans University Graduate School of Medicine, Seoul 158-710, Korea
| | - Byung-In Moon
- Surgery, Ewha Womans University Graduate School of Medicine, Seoul 158-710, Korea
| | - Ju-Young Seoh
- Department of Microbiology, Graduate School of Medicine, Seoul 158-710, Korea
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Echinacea purpurea root extract enhances the adipocyte differentiation of 3T3-L1 cells. Arch Pharm Res 2013; 37:803-12. [PMID: 24085629 DOI: 10.1007/s12272-013-0251-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2013] [Accepted: 09/20/2013] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Echinacea purpurea has been shown to have anti-diabetic activities; for example, it activates peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) and increases insulin-stimulated glucose uptake. Adipogenesis has been used to study the insulin signaling pathway and to screen anti-diabetic compounds. The present study was conducted to investigate the effects of an ethanol extract of E. purpurea (EEEP) and its constituents on the insulin-induced adipocyte differentiation of 3T3-L1 preadipocytes. When adipocyte differentiation was induced with insulin plus 3-isobutyl-1-methylxanthine and dexamethasone, the accumulation of lipid droplets and the cellular triglyceride content were significantly increased by EEEP. The expressions of PPARγ and C/EBPα in adipocytes treated with EEEP were gradually increased as compared with control cells. Fat accumulation and triglyceride content of adipocytes treated with dodeca-2(E),4(E)-dienoic acid isobutylamide were significantly increased as compared with control cells. The expressions of PPARγ and C/EBPα in adipocytes treated with dodeca-2(E),4(E)-dienoic acid isobutylamide were significantly higher than in control cells. These results suggest EEEP promotes the adipogenesis that is partially induced by insulin and that dodeca-2(E),4(E)-dienoic acid isobutylamide appears to be responsible for EEEP-enhanced adipocyte differentiation.
Collapse
|
24
|
|
25
|
Lee T, Chen C, Wang C, Yu B. Growth performance and antioxidant capacity of broilers supplemented with Echinacea purpurea L. in the diet. J APPL POULTRY RES 2012. [DOI: 10.3382/japr.2011-00369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
|
26
|
Boonen J, Bronselaer A, Nielandt J, Veryser L, De Tré G, De Spiegeleer B. Alkamid database: Chemistry, occurrence and functionality of plant N-alkylamides. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2012; 142:563-90. [PMID: 22659196 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2012.05.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2012] [Revised: 05/21/2012] [Accepted: 05/22/2012] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE N-Alkylamides (NAAs) are a promising group of bioactive compounds, which are anticipated to act as important lead compounds for plant protection and biocidal products, functional food, cosmeceuticals and drugs in the next decennia. These molecules, currently found in more than 25 plant families and with a wide structural diversity, exert a variety of biological-pharmacological effects and are of high ethnopharmacological importance. However, information is scattered in literature, with different, often unstandardized, pharmacological methodologies being used. Therefore, a comprehensive NAA database (acronym: Alkamid) was constructed to collect the available structural and functional NAA data, linked to their occurrence in plants (family, tribe, species, genus). MATERIALS AND METHODS For loading information in the database, literature data was gathered over the period 1950-2010, by using several search engines. In order to represent the collected information about NAAs, the plants in which they occur and the functionalities for which they have been examined, a relational database is constructed and implemented on a MySQL back-end. RESULTS The database is supported by describing the NAA plant-, functional- and chemical-space. The chemical space includes a NAA classification, according to their fatty acid and amine structures. CONCLUSIONS The Alkamid database (publicly available on the website http://alkamid.ugent.be/) is not only a central information point, but can also function as a useful tool to prioritize the NAA choice in the evaluation of their functionality, to perform data mining leading to quantitative structure-property relationships (QSPRs), functionality comparisons, clustering, plant biochemistry and taxonomic evaluations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jente Boonen
- Drug Quality and Registration (DruQuaR) Group, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Harelbekestraat 72, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
27
|
Senchina DS, Hallam JE, Cheney DJ. Multidisciplinary perspectives on mechanisms of activity of popular immune-enhancing herbal supplements used by athletes. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2012. [DOI: 10.1007/s11515-012-1197-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
|
28
|
Applications of the phytomedicine Echinacea purpurea (Purple Coneflower) in infectious diseases. J Biomed Biotechnol 2011; 2012:769896. [PMID: 22131823 PMCID: PMC3205674 DOI: 10.1155/2012/769896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2011] [Accepted: 08/29/2011] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Extracts of Echinacea purpurea (EP, purple coneflower) have been used traditionally in North America for the treatment of various types of infections and wounds, and they have become very popular herbal medicines globally. Recent studies have revealed that certain standardized preparations contain potent and selective antiviral and antimicrobial activities. In addition, they display multiple immune-modulatory activities, comprising stimulation of certain immune functions such as phagocytic activity of macrophages and suppression of the proinflammatory responses of epithelial cells to viruses and bacteria, which are manifested as alterations in secretion of various cytokines and chemokines. These immune modulations result from upregulation or downregulation of the relevant genes and their transcription factors. All these bioactivities can be demonstrated at noncytotoxic concentrations of extract and appear to be due to multiple components rather than the individual chemical compounds that characterize Echinacea extracts. Potential applications of the bioactive extracts may go beyond their traditional uses.
Collapse
|
29
|
Najafzadeh H, Ghorbanpour M, Mayahi M, Gavzan H. Effect ofEchinacea purpureaon antibody production against fowl influenza vaccine. JOURNAL OF APPLIED ANIMAL RESEARCH 2011. [DOI: 10.1080/09712119.2011.565555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
|
30
|
Bieuvelet S, Seyrig C, Leclerc C. Enquête préliminaire sur l’intérêt de consommer des probiotiques, du cyprès et de l’échinacée en prévention des infections hivernales. PHYTOTHÉRAPIE 2011; 9:120-125. [PMID: 32288746 PMCID: PMC7104609 DOI: 10.1007/s10298-011-0613-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Introduction L’hiver est une période propice aux infections virales. Certaines plantes et souches probiotiques pourraient conférer à notre organisme une meilleure protection en renforçant nos défenses immunitaires. Objectif Cette enquête préliminaire avait pour objectif d’évaluer l’intérêt de consommer des probiotiques, du cyprès et de l’échinacée pour prévenir l’apparition d’affections hivernales. Méthode Il s’agit d’une enquête déclarative par questionnaire. Son objectif était de comparer l’incidence des affections hivernales dans deux groupes de sujets âgés de 18 à 65 ans en bonne santé, complémentés ou non avec du Lactibiane Référence® et des comprimés de Phytostandard® cyprès-échinacée pendant trois mois ou plus en période hivernale. Résultats L’incidence de la grippe (5 vs 10 %, p = 0,012), du rhume (29 vs 50 %, p = 0,002) et de la rhinopharyngite (9 vs 15 %, p = 0,017) était significativement moins élevée chez les personnes complémentées que chez celles non com-plémentées. L’incidence du rhume était également significativement moins élevée dans un sous-groupe de personnes sensibles aux infections hivernales complémentées pendant trois mois ou plus, comparées à celles ne s’étant pas com-plémentées (36 vs 78 % de rhume, p = 0,004). Conclusion Les résultats montrent que la consommation des deux produits pendant trois mois ou plus est associée à une moindre incidence des affections hivernales de types grippe, rhume et rhinopharyngite. Il pourrait être intéressant de mener ultérieurement une étude prospective de plus grande envergure pour déterminer le rôle exact respectif du Lactibiane Référence® et des comprimés de Phytostandard® cyprès-échinacée dans la prévention des affections hivernales.
Collapse
|
31
|
Mir-Rashed N, Cruz I, Jessulat M, Dumontier M, Chesnais C, Ng J, Amiguet VT, Golshani A, Arnason JT, Smith ML. Disruption of fungal cell wall by antifungal Echinacea extracts. Med Mycol 2011; 48:949-58. [PMID: 20429770 DOI: 10.3109/13693781003767584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In addition to widespread use in reducing the symptoms of colds and flu, Echinacea is traditionally employed to treat fungal and bacterial infections. However, to date the mechanism of antimicrobial activity of Echinacea extracts remains unclear. We utilized a set of ∼4,600 viable gene deletion mutants of Saccharomyces cerevisiae to identify mutations that increase sensitivity to Echinacea. Thus, a set of chemical-genetic profiles for 16 different Echinacea treatments was generated, from which a consensus set of 23 Echinacea-sensitive mutants was identified. Of the 23 mutants, only 16 have a reported function. Ten of these 16 are involved in cell wall integrity/structure suggesting that a target for Echinacea is the fungal cell wall. Follow-up analyses revealed an increase in sonication-associated cell death in the yeasts S. cerevisiae and Cryptococcus neoformans after Echinacea extract treatments. Furthermore, fluorescence microscopy showed that Echinacea-treated S. cerevisiae was significantly more prone to cell wall damage than non-treated cells. This study further demonstrates the potential of gene deletion arrays to understand natural product antifungal mode of action and provides compelling evidence that the fungal cell wall is a target of Echinacea extracts and may thus explain the utility of this phytomedicine in treating mycoses.
Collapse
|
32
|
Synergetic effects of oral administration of levamisole and Echinacea purpurea on immune response in Wistar rat. Res Vet Sci 2010; 91:82-85. [PMID: 20797737 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2010.07.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2010] [Revised: 07/26/2010] [Accepted: 07/30/2010] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
This research investigated the effects of levamisole and Echinacea purpurea (EP), separately and together on the immune response of the rat as a laboratory model. In this experiment, 40 male Wistar rats were obtained and divided into four groups (n=10). These groups received normal saline (10 mg/kg), EP (500 mg/kg), levamisole (2 mg/kg) and EP (500 mg/kg) with levamisole (2 mg/kg) as oral gavages every day for a period of 4 weeks, respectively. After obtaining blood samples (at the end of each week), haematocrit (HCT), differential and total white blood cell (WBC) counts, phagocyte activity (number), total protein, albumin and globulins levels of samples were obtained. The results of the study showed that the gamma globulin level, WBC, neutrophil and monocyte counts and phagocyte activity increased significantly in comparison with normal saline group during the study. According to the results, each of the mentioned agents had a stimulant effect on the immune system separately and together on rats. In the group that received EP and levamisole simultaneously, these effects were synergistically increased. These compounds, by increasing the mentioned factors, will probably affect the immune system.
Collapse
|
33
|
Senchina DS, Martin AE, Buss JE, Kohut ML. Effects of Echinacea extracts on macrophage antiviral activities. Phytother Res 2010; 24:810-6. [PMID: 20041425 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.2991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Type I interferons are a class of cytokines synthesized by leukocytes such as macrophages that limit viral replication. We hypothesized that one mechanism whereby Echinacea spp. extracts may enhance immunity is through modulating interferon-associated macrophage pathways. We used herpes simplex viral infection in the murine macrophage cell line RAW264.7 and monitored virus-induced cell death, interferon secretion, and two intracellular proteins that indicate activation of interferon pathways. Cells were incubated with control media or extracts from four different species (E. angustifolia, E. purpurea, E. tennesseensis, E. pallida). Cells incubated with extracts prior to infection showed very modest enhancement of viability, and no increase in the secretion of interferons alpha or beta as compared to control cells. Virus-infected macrophages treated with extracts from E. purpurea showed a small (<2-fold) induction of guanylate binding protein (GBP) production, but no effect of extracts from other species was observed. In virus-infected cells, all the extracts increased the amount of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) protein, and this effect varied by type of extraction preparation. Together, these results suggest that any potential antiviral activities of Echinacea spp. extracts are likely not mediated through large inductions of Type I interferon, but may involve iNOS.
Collapse
|
34
|
The effect of the extract of rhizome and root of hellebore (Helleborus odorus W. et K.) on parameters of white blood count and degree of phagocytosis in wistar rats. ACTA VETERINARIA 2010. [DOI: 10.2298/avb1006605d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
|
35
|
Matthias A, Banbury L, Stevenson LM, Bone KM, Leach DN, Lehmann RP. Alkylamides from Echinacea Modulate Induced Immune Responses in Macrophages. Immunol Invest 2009; 36:117-30. [PMID: 17365014 DOI: 10.1080/08820130600745786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
The ability of Echinacea and its components to alter the immune response was examined in vitro in a macrophage cell line under either basal or immunostimulated conditions. Potential immunostimulatory and inflammatory activity was determined using a nuclear transcription factor (NFkappaB) expression, tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNFalpha) and nitric oxide (NO) production as biomarkers. In the absence of alternate stimulation, the only significant effects seen were a decrease in NFkappaB expression by a 2-ene alkylamide ((2E)-N-isobutylundeca-2-ene-8,10-diynamide (1)) and a decrease in TNFalpha levels by cichoric acid and an Echinacea alkylamide fraction (EPL AA). When the cells were stimulated by lipopolysaccharide (LPS), inhibition of the increased NFkappaB expression levels was caused by cichoric acid, an Echinacea preparation (EPL), EPL AA and a 2,4-diene ((2E,4E,8Z,10Z)-N-isobutyldodeca-2,4,8,10-tetraenamide (2)). Increases in TNFalpha levels were inhibited by cichoric acid, EPL and EPL AA but enhanced by 1 in the presence of LPS, while only EPL AA was able to inhibit the stimulated increases in NO. When using phorbol myristate acetate to stimulate the cells, NFkappaB and NO levels were unaffected by Echinacea or its components while only cichoric acid and 2 inhibited TNFalpha levels. Although cichoric acid was found to have an effect, it is probably not an important contributor to the Echinacea modulation of the immune response in vivo, as it is not bioavailable. Echinacea appears to attenuate the response of macrophages to an immune stimulus and its combination of phytochemicals exhibits different pharmacological properties to one or more of the isolated major individual components.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A Matthias
- MediHerb Research Laboratories, Queensland, Australia.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
36
|
Amirghofran Z, Bahmani M, Azadmehr A, Javidnia K, Miri R. Immunomodulatory activities of various medicinal plant extracts: effects on human lymphocytes apoptosis. Immunol Invest 2009; 38:181-92. [PMID: 19330626 DOI: 10.1080/08820130902817051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Plant extracts have been widely evaluated for biological properties. In the present study extracts of several native plants in Iran was investigated for their possible immunomodulatory effects. Peripheral blood lymphocytes separated from healthy individuals were stimulated with phytohemagglutinin (PHA) and cultured with different concentrations of the extracts. Comparison of the cell proliferation in treated cultures showed the highest inhibitory effect due to exposure with Linum persicum. This extract caused a strong dose-dependent decrease in lymphocyte proliferation (p < 0.001). Lymphocytes treated with Cirsium bracteosum were inhibited in a dose dependent manner (SI range 0.9-0.2). Similarly, Echinophora cinerea-treated lymphocytes showed a significant reduction in proliferation compared to that in non-treated cells. Among the extracts, Dionysia termeana, Salvia macrociphon and Ferulago angulata had a mild stimulatory effect on the lymphocytes at concentrations less than 1 microg/ml (p < 0.05). At higher doses all these extracts showed significant inhibitory effects on the proliferation of PHA-treated cells (SI range 0.81 to 0.04). In cell cycle analysis performed by flow cytometry, the strongest appearance of apoptotic cells at sub-G1 phase in various extract-treated cultures was found for D. termeana (14.6 +/- 0.5%). The Percentage of cells undergoing apoptosis in cultures treated with L. persicum was more than 11 compared to that of the control (1.7 +/- 0.08). In DNA analysis, D. termeana and L. persicum showed typical DNA laddering, indicating that these extracts induced apoptosis of lymphocytes. In conclusion, all the extracts studied showed lymphocyte inhibitory effects at high concentrations. These inhibitory effects for some of the plants seem to be due to induction of apoptosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Amirghofran
- Immunology Department, Shiraz University of Medical Science, Shiraz, Iran.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
37
|
Ma A, Shi W, Niu X, Wang M, Zhong X. Effects of Echinacea purpurea extract on the immunological response to infectious bursal disease vaccine in broilers. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2009. [DOI: 10.1007/s11703-009-0039-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
|
38
|
Wang CY, Staniforth V, Chiao MT, Hou CC, Wu HM, Yeh KC, Chen CH, Hwang PI, Wen TN, Shyur LF, Yang NS. Genomics and proteomics of immune modulatory effects of a butanol fraction of echinacea purpurea in human dendritic cells. BMC Genomics 2008; 9:479. [PMID: 18847511 PMCID: PMC2571112 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2164-9-479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2008] [Accepted: 10/13/2008] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Echinacea spp. extracts and the derived phytocompounds have been shown to induce specific immune cell activities and are popularly used as food supplements or nutraceuticals for immuno-modulatory functions. Dendritic cells (DCs), the most potent antigen presenting cells, play an important role in both innate and adaptive immunities. In this study, we investigated the specific and differential gene expression in human immature DCs (iDCs) in response to treatment with a butanol fraction containing defined bioactive phytocompounds extracted from stems and leaves of Echinacea purpurea, that we denoted [BF/S+L/Ep]. Results Affymetrix DNA microarray results showed significant up regulation of specific genes for cytokines (IL-8, IL-1β, and IL-18) and chemokines (CXCL 2, CCL 5, and CCL 2) within 4 h after [BF/S+L/Ep] treatment of iDCs. Bioinformatics analysis of genes expressed in [BF/S+L/Ep]-treated DCs revealed a key-signaling network involving a number of immune-modulatory molecules leading to the activation of a downstream molecule, adenylate cyclase 8. Proteomic analysis showed increased expression of antioxidant and cytoskeletal proteins after treatment with [BF/S+L/Ep] and cichoric acid. Conclusion This study provides information on candidate target molecules and molecular signaling mechanisms for future systematic research into the immune-modulatory activities of an important traditional medicinal herb and its derived phytocompounds.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chien-Yu Wang
- Agricultural Biotechnology Research Center, Academia Sinica, Taipei 115, Taiwan.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
39
|
Davicino R, Mattar A, Casali Y, Porporatto C, Correa SG, Micalizzi B. In VivoImmunomodulatory Effects of Aqueous Extracts ofLarrea divaricataCav. Immunopharmacol Immunotoxicol 2008; 29:351-66. [DOI: 10.1080/08923970701619703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
|
40
|
Montanari M, Degl’Innocenti E, Maggini R, Pacifici S, Pardossi A, Guidi L. Effect of nitrate fertilization and saline stress on the contents of active constituents of Echinacea angustifolia DC. Food Chem 2008. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2007.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
|
41
|
Altamirano-Dimas M, Hudson JB, Cochrane D, Nelson C, Arnason JT. Modulation of immune response gene expression by echinacea extracts: results of a gene array analysis. Can J Physiol Pharmacol 2008; 85:1091-8. [PMID: 18066111 DOI: 10.1139/y07-110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Echinacea extracts have traditionally been used in the treatment of many infectious and other diseases (such as rhinovirus colds), and research has revealed the presence of various bioactivities in these extracts, particularly those connected with immune responses. We examined the effects of Echinacea by using gene expression analysis in a line of human bronchial epithelial cells, with or without rhinovirus infection. More than 13 000 human genes were evaluated. From these analyses we focused primarily on immune response genes and found that both Echinacea extracts, one predominantly rich in polysaccharides and the other rich in alkylamides and caffeic acid derivatives, stimulated the expression of numerous genes. These included a number of cytokines and chemokines, although the pattern of stimulation was different. In addition, Echinacea extracts tended to neutralize the effects of the rhinovirus. When the immune response gene pathways were analyzed with the Ingenuity Pathway program, it became apparent that many of them were interconnected through a major node, the transcription factor C/EBPbeta (CAAT/enhancer-binding protein beta) and its related C/EBP proteins. This suggests that Echinacea can bring about important biological responses in cells by virtue of interactions between components of the extract and a small number of intracellular factors involved in multiple signaling pathways.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M Altamirano-Dimas
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of British Columbia, C-360 Heather Pavilion, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1M9, Canada
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
42
|
Nunes EA, Bonatto SJ, de Oliveira HHP, Rivera NLM, Maiorka A, Krabbe EL, Tanhoffer RA, Fernandes LC. The effect of dietary supplementation with 9-cis:12-trans and 10-trans:12-cis conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) for nine months on serum cholesterol, lymphocyte proliferation and polymorphonuclear cells function in Beagle dogs. Res Vet Sci 2008; 84:62-7. [PMID: 17521690 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2007.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2006] [Revised: 02/01/2007] [Accepted: 03/25/2007] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Conjugated linoleic acids (CLA), 9-cis:11-trans and 10-trans:12-cis, have been shown to be able to modify some immune cells parameters and plasma lipids in a variety of experiment models. Since lymphocytes and polymorphonuclear cells (PMNC) have a large spectrum functions in the immune response, the knowledge in this field has to be expanded. Beagle dogs were fed a control diet or a CLA supplemented diet for nine months. Blood was collected for biochemical analysis and lymphocyte and PMNC isolation. PMNC were assayed for lysosome content, phagocytic activity and superoxide anion production. A lymphocyte proliferation capacity assay was done. The CLA fed dogs had a 34% reduction in total cholesterol (P < 0.05), 28% in LDL (P < 0.05) and 28% non-HDL-cholesterol (P < 0.05). Neither of the PMNC parameters evaluated demonstrated significant alteration. Lymphocytes from CLA group increased by 45% their mitotic capacity (P < 0.05). Our study demonstrates that CLA can successfully modify the lipid profile of dogs (monogastrics) when fed at reasonable levels, but did not significantly alter inflammatory function as would generally predicted. Further, we had some indication that CLA modulated T cell responsiveness.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- E A Nunes
- Cell Metabolism Laboratory, Physiology Department, Biological Science Building, Universidade Federal do Paraná, 81530-990, Curitiba-PR, Brazil.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
43
|
Davicino R, Mattar A, Casali Y, Porporatto C, Correa SG, Micalizzi B. Early effects triggered by Larrea divaricata Cav. on murine macrophages at apoptotic concentrations. Immunopharmacol Immunotoxicol 2007; 29:611-24. [PMID: 18075869 DOI: 10.1080/08923970701513377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Decoction and infusion of Larrea divaricata were tested at apoptotic concentrations (1 and 4 mg/ml) on peritoneal murine macrophages. Consistent changes were observed after incubation with 4 mg/ml decoction. Phagocytosis of zymosan, lysosomal enzyme activity, nitric oxide production, TNF-alpha release, and expression of CD14, TLR4, and CR3 increased significantly. Decoction at 1 and 4 mg/ml increased the binding of LPS-FITC. Apoptosis triggered by L. divaricata decoction is consequence of cell activation. The effects are independent of nordihydroguaiaretic acid. This "activation and death" could be the mechanism of L. divaricata to exert the antituberculosis effect known in folk medicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Davicino
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Facultad de Química, Bioquímica y Farmacia, Universidad Nacional de San Luis. Chacabuco y Pedernera, San Luis, Argentina
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
44
|
Zhai Z, Liu Y, Wu L, Senchina DS, Wurtele ES, Murphy PA, Kohut ML, Cunnick JE. Enhancement of innate and adaptive immune functions by multiple Echinacea species. J Med Food 2007; 10:423-34. [PMID: 17887935 PMCID: PMC2362099 DOI: 10.1089/jmf.2006.257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Echinacea preparations are commonly used as nonspecific immunomodulatory agents. Alcohol extracts from three widely used Echinacea species, Echinacea angustifolia, Echinacea pallida, and Echinacea purpurea, were investigated for immunomodulating properties. The three Echinacea species demonstrated a broad difference in concentrations of individual lipophilic amides and hydrophilic caffeic acid derivatives. Mice were gavaged once a day (for 7 days) with one of the Echinacea extracts (130 mg/kg) or vehicle and immunized with sheep red blood cells (sRBC) 4 days prior to collection of immune cells for multiple immunological assays. The three herb extracts induced similar, but differential, changes in the percentage of immune cell populations and their biological functions, including increased percentages of CD49+ and CD19+ lymphocytes in spleen and natural killer cell cytotoxicity. Antibody response to sRBC was significantly increased equally by extracts of all three Echinacea species. Concanavalin A-stimulated splenocytes from E. angustifolia- and E. pallida-treated mice demonstrated significantly higher T cell proliferation. In addition, the Echinacea treatment significantly altered the cytokine production by mitogen-stimulated splenic cells. The three herbal extracts significantly increased interferon-alpha production, but inhibited the release of tumor necrosis factor-gamma and interleukin (IL)-1beta. Only E. angustifolia- and E. pallida-treated mice demonstrated significantly higher production of IL-4 and increased IL-10 production. Taken together, these findings demonstrated that Echinacea is a wide-spectrum immunomodulator that modulates both innate and adaptive immune responses. In particular, E. angustifolia or E. pallida may have more anti-inflammatory potential.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zili Zhai
- Department of Animal Science, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa
- Department of Neuroscience, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa
| | - Yi Liu
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa
| | - Lankun Wu
- Department of Genetics, Development and Cell Biology, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa
| | - David S. Senchina
- Department of Immunobiology, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa
- Health and Human Performance and Interdepartmental, Department of Microbiology Programs, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa
| | - Eve S. Wurtele
- Department of Genetics, Development and Cell Biology, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa
| | - Patricia A. Murphy
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa
| | - Marian L. Kohut
- Department of Immunobiology, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa
- Health and Human Performance and Interdepartmental, Department of Microbiology Programs, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa
| | - Joan E. Cunnick
- Department of Animal Science, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa
- Department of Neuroscience, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa
- Department of Immunobiology, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa
- Health and Human Performance and Interdepartmental, Department of Microbiology Programs, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Davicino R, Mattar A, Casali Y, Porporatto C, Correa S, Micalizzi B. Activation and apoptosis of mouse peritoneal macrophages by extracts of Larrea divaricata Cav. (jarilla). Int Immunopharmacol 2006; 6:2047-56. [PMID: 17161361 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2006.08.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2006] [Revised: 08/02/2006] [Accepted: 08/10/2006] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Two aqueous extracts, decoction and infusion from Larrea divaricata Cav. (Zygophyllaceae) were investigated for immunomodulating activity on peritoneal macrophages (MPhi). Both extracts reduced significantly the cell viability assessed with the MTT assay at 1 and 4 mg/ml (decoction) and 0.8-4 mg/ml (infusion). Apoptotic morphology showed that at 1 and 4 mg/ml both infusion and decoction triggered an increment of the apoptosis. Pretreatment of MPhi with decoction increased significantly the phagocytosis of zymosan and Candida albicans. The production of NO was estimated as nitrite using the Griess reagent. A slight but significant increase in NO release was observed after the incubation of both extracts (0.2 mg/ml) with LPS during 48 h. As shown in western blot data MPhi cultured with infusion and LPS exhibited the stronger expression of iNOS compared with untreated cells. Both extracts (0.2 mg/ml) increased the binding of LPS-FITC to cells compared with untreated ones. The addition of Staphylococcus aureus blocked completely the binding of LPS-FITC to cells. L. divaricata stimulated the MPhi activation at 0.2 mg/ml whereas it showed a clear pro-apoptotic activity at higher concentrations. The dual effects of L. divaricata are relevant considering the use of this plant to activate the immune system.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Davicino
- Area Microbiología, Departamento de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Facultad de Química, Bioquímica y Farmacia, Universidad Nacional de San Luis Chacabuco y Pedernera, 5700 San Luis, Argentina
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
46
|
Hudson J, Altamirano M. The application of DNA micro-arrays (gene arrays) to the study of herbal medicines. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2006; 108:2-15. [PMID: 16979861 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2006.08.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2006] [Revised: 08/07/2006] [Accepted: 08/08/2006] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
DNA micro-arrays (gene arrays) have become a popular and useful tool with which to study the effects of various agents and treatments on gene expression in cells and tissues. In theory one can simultaneously evaluate, in a single experiment, changes in gene expression (at the level of transcription) of the entire genome of the organism under study. Consequently these techniques have been used by many investigators interested in cancer research, differentiation and development, toxicology, and the effects of pharmaceuticals on cells and animals. In addition, recent studies have shown the capacity of the technique for revealing the importance of genes not previously implicated in a given response. However, relatively few attempts have been made so far to evaluate herbal medicines, although the potential to answer a number of relevant questions is there. In this review we first discuss the fundamental principles of the gene array technology, focusing on the individual steps in the process and their problems and pitfalls, and we discuss the analysis and interpretation of the data, the discipline of bio-informatics, without which meaningful evaluation of gene expression changes would be impossible. We next analyze specific studies, which utilized gene array technology, aimed at evaluating the effects of certain herbal medicine formulas and bioactive ingredients in animal tissues and in cell cultures. We also include a brief description of our own evaluation of Echinacea, which we have been studying for several years, to indicate possible mechanisms of action of this herbal, and also to illustrate how the techniques, especially the bio-informatics, continue to evolve. We believe, on the basis of experience acquired by us and other investigators to date, that the technology of gene array analysis can make significant contributions to understanding how herbal medicines work, and therefore can validate their applications in medicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jim Hudson
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada V5Z 1M9.
| | | |
Collapse
|
47
|
Barnes J, Anderson LA, Gibbons S, Phillipson JD. Echinacea species (Echinacea angustifolia (DC.) Hell., Echinacea pallida (Nutt.) Nutt.,Echinacea purpurea (L.) Moench): a review of their chemistry, pharmacology and clinical properties. J Pharm Pharmacol 2006; 57:929-54. [PMID: 16102249 DOI: 10.1211/0022357056127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 222] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
This paper reviews the chemistry, pharmacology and clinical properties of Echinacea species used medicinally. The Echinacea species Echinacea angustifolia, Echinacea pallida and Echinacea purpurea have a long history of medicinal use for a variety of conditions, particularly infections, and today echinacea products are among the best-selling herbal preparations in several developed countries. Modern interest in echinacea is focused on its immunomodulatory effects, particularly in the prevention and treatment of upper respiratory tract infections. The chemistry of Echinacea species is well documented, and several groups of constituents, including alkamides and caffeic acid derivatives, are considered important for activity. There are, however, differences in the constituent profile of the three species. Commercial echinacea samples and marketed echinacea products may contain one or more of the three species, and analysis of samples of raw material and products has shown that some do not meet recognized standards for pharmaceutical quality. Evidence from preclinical studies supports some of the traditional and modern uses for echinacea, particularly the reputed immunostimulant (or immunomodulatory) properties. Several, but not all, clinical trials of echinacea preparations have reported effects superior to those of placebo in the prevention and treatment of upper respiratory tract infections. However, evidence of efficacy is not definitive as studies have included different patient groups and tested various different preparations and dosage regimens of echinacea. On the basis of the available limited safety data, echinacea appears to be well tolerated. However, further investigation and surveillance are required to establish the safety profiles of different echinacea preparations. Safety issues include the possibility of allergic reactions, the use of echinacea by patients with autoimmune diseases and the potential for echinacea preparations to interact with conventional medicines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joanne Barnes
- Centre for Pharmacognosy and Phytotherapy, School of Pharmacy, University of London, 29-39 Brunswick Square, London WC1N 1AX, UK.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
48
|
Schepetkin IA, Quinn MT. Botanical polysaccharides: macrophage immunomodulation and therapeutic potential. Int Immunopharmacol 2005; 6:317-33. [PMID: 16428067 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2005.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 859] [Impact Index Per Article: 45.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2005] [Revised: 09/28/2005] [Accepted: 10/03/2005] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Botanical polysaccharides exhibit a number of beneficial therapeutic properties, and it is thought that the mechanisms involved in these effects are due to the modulation of innate immunity and, more specifically, macrophage function. In this review, we summarize our current state of understanding of the macrophage modulatory effects of botanical polysaccharides isolated from a wide array of different species of flora, including higher plants, mushrooms, lichens and algae. Overall, the primary effect of botanical polysaccharides is to enhance and/or activate macrophage immune responses, leading to immunomodulation, anti-tumor activity, wound-healing and other therapeutic effects. Furthermore, botanical and microbial polysaccharides bind to common surface receptors and induce similar immunomodulatory responses in macrophages, suggesting that evolutionarily conserved polysaccharide structural features are shared between these organisms. Thus, the evaluation of botanical polysaccharides provides a unique opportunity for the discovery of novel therapeutic agents and adjuvants that exhibit beneficial immunomodulatory properties.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Igor A Schepetkin
- Department of Veterinary Molecular Biology, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT 59717, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
49
|
Modulation of macrophage immune responses by Echinacea. Molecules 2005; 10:1279-85. [PMID: 18007520 PMCID: PMC6147727 DOI: 10.3390/10101279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2004] [Accepted: 05/26/2005] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Echinacea preparations are widely used herbal medicines for the prevention and treatment of colds and minor infections. There is little evidence for the individual components in Echinacea that contribute to immune regulatory activity. Activity of an ethanolic Echinacea extract and several constituents, including cichoric acid, have been examined using three in vitro measures of macrophage immune function – NF-κB, TNF- α and nitric oxide (NO). In cultured macrophages, all components except the monoene alkylamide (AA1) decreased lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimulated NF-κB levels. 0.2 µg/ml cichoric acid and 2.0µg/mL Echinacea Premium Liquid (EPL) and EPL alkylamide fraction (EPL AA) were found to significantly decrease TNF-α production under LPS stimulated conditions in macrophages. In macrophages, only the alkylamide mixture isolated from the ethanolic Echinacea extract decreased LPS stimulated NO production. In this study, the mixture of alkylamides in the Echinacea ethanolic liquid extract did not respond in the same manner in the assays as the individual alkylamides investigated. While cichoric acid has been shown to affect NF-κB, TNF-α and NO levels, it is unlikely to be relevant in the Echinacea alterations of the immune response in vivo due to its non- bioavailability – i.e. no demonstrated absorption across the intestinal barrier and no detectable levels in plasma. These results demonstrate that Echinacea is an effective modulator of macrophage immune responses in vitro.
Collapse
|
50
|
Brovelli EA, Rua D, Roh-Schmidt H, Chandra A, Lamont E, Noratto GD. Human gene expression as a tool to determine horticultural maturity in a bioactive plant (Echinacea purpurea L. Moench). JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2005; 53:8156-61. [PMID: 16218658 DOI: 10.1021/jf0505372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
A phenological study was conducted to determine the impact of harvest maturity on the immune-modulating properties of Echinacea purpurea. The aerial parts of this plant were collected during seven stages of development and were assayed for a common botanical marker for this species, cichoric acid. Plants of selected development stages were also assayed for total polysaccharides and compared for their immune-modulating effects on the THP-1 monocyte/macrophage cell line by means of a gene expression study. Although the concentration of cichoric acid did not change significantly during the course of the study, stage 1 (advanced vegetative) had the highest concentration of total polysaccharides and exhibited the most potent induction activity on immune-modulating cytokines such as interferon-gamma and tumor necrosis factor-alpha. These findings suggest that the use of gene expression may be an effective tool not only to standardize botanical extracts but also to optimize harvest time.
Collapse
|