1
|
Pasdaran A, Hassani B, Tavakoli A, Kozuharova E, Hamedi A. A Review of the Potential Benefits of Herbal Medicines, Small Molecules of Natural Sources, and Supplements for Health Promotion in Lupus Conditions. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:1589. [PMID: 37511964 PMCID: PMC10416186 DOI: 10.3390/life13071589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Revised: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The Latin word lupus, meaning wolf, was in the medical literature prior to the 1200s to describe skin lesions that devour flesh, and the resources available to physicians to help people were limited. The present text reviews the ethnobotanical and pharmacological aspects of medicinal plants and purified molecules from natural sources with efficacy against lupus conditions. Among these molecules are artemisinin and its derivatives, antroquinonol, baicalin, curcumin, emodin, mangiferin, salvianolic acid A, triptolide, the total glycosides of paeony (TGP), and other supplements such as fatty acids and vitamins. In addition, medicinal plants, herbal remedies, mushrooms, and fungi that have been investigated for their effects on different lupus conditions through clinical trials, in vivo, in vitro, or in silico studies are reviewed. A special emphasis was placed on clinical trials, active phytochemicals, and their mechanisms of action. This review can be helpful for researchers in designing new goal-oriented studies. It can also help practitioners gain insight into recent updates on supplements that might help patients suffering from lupus conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ardalan Pasdaran
- Department of Pharmacognosy, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz 7146864685, Iran
- Medicinal Plants Processing Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz 7146864685, Iran
| | - Bahareh Hassani
- Student Research Committee, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz 7146864685, Iran
| | - Ali Tavakoli
- Research Center for Traditional Medicine and History of Medicine, Department of Persian Medicine, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz 7134845794, Iran
| | - Ekaterina Kozuharova
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Sofia, 1431 Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Azadeh Hamedi
- Department of Pharmacognosy, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz 7146864685, Iran
- Medicinal Plants Processing Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz 7146864685, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Guo Y, Guo N, Wang J, Wang R, Tang L. Retrospective analysis of Tripterygium wilfordii polyglycoside combined with angiotensin receptor blockers for the treatment of primary membranous nephropathy with sub-nephrotic proteinuria. Ren Fail 2021; 43:729-736. [PMID: 33904354 PMCID: PMC8081316 DOI: 10.1080/0886022x.2021.1918555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2020] [Revised: 04/08/2021] [Accepted: 04/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Primary membranous nephropathy (PMN) is one common cause of end-stage kidney disease. There is no optimal treatment for PMN patients with sub-nephrotic proteinuria currently. Tripterygium wilfordii polyglycoside (TWG) is a widely used traditional medicine in China and has been used to treat nephropathy for decades. OBJECTIVE To investigate the effect of TWG combined with angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) on the treatment of PMN with sub-nephrotic proteinuria. METHODS Biopsy-proven sub-nephrotic PMN patients with normal kidney function and treated with TWG combined with ARB or ARB alone were retrospectively analyzed. The primary outcome was remission rate (complete or partial remission), and the secondary outcomes included proteinuria, serum albumin levels, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), relapse rate, and adverse events. RESULTS The clinical trial included 55 patients. The overall remission rates for the TWG + ARB and ARB groups after 9 months of treatment were 74.3% and 35%, respectively (p = 0.004). Moreover, the complete remission (CR) rate for the TWG + ARB and ARB groups in the 9th month were 45.7% and 15%, respectively (p = 0.044). Treatment with TWG + ARB was the independent predictor of complete remission of proteinuria (p = 0.048). Besides, the remission rate was higher in the TWG + ARB group than in the ARB group among patients who were positive for anti-phospholipase A2 receptor (PLA2R) antibodies (65.4% vs. 21.4%, p = 0.02). CONCLUSIONS These data demonstrate that TWG may be a promising treatment for PMN patients with sub-nephrotic proteinuria, whether anti-PLA2R antibody is positive or negative.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuanyuan Guo
- Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, P.R. China
| | - Ningning Guo
- Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, P.R. China
| | - Jin Wang
- Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, P.R. China
| | - Ruiqiang Wang
- Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, P.R. China
| | - Lin Tang
- Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Shang SL, Cai GY, Duan SW, Li P, Li QG, Chen XM. Retrospective analysis of tacrolimus combined with Tripterygium wilfordii polyglycoside for treating idiopathic membranous nephropathy. BMC Nephrol 2018; 19:182. [PMID: 30021637 PMCID: PMC6052665 DOI: 10.1186/s12882-018-0967-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2017] [Accepted: 06/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Idiopathic membranous nephropathy (IMN) is one of the most common adult nephrotic syndromes. Some patients with this disorder require immunosuppressive therapy. This retrospective case series was performed to assess the effects of tacrolimus (TAC) combined with Tripterygium wilfordii polyglycoside (TWG) in treating IMN. METHODS From January 2015 to August 2016, kidney-biopsy-proven IMN patients treated with TAC in the Chinese PLA General Hospital were screened. Data were retrieved from the patients' medical records. The first efficacy evaluation index was remission rate (complete remission and partial remission), and the secondary efficacy evaluation indices included relapse rate, proteinuria, serum albumin and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). Adverse events were also assessed. RESULTS The included patients' treatments were tacrolimus monotherapy (TAC group, n = 33), tacrolimus combined with methylprednisolone (MP) (TAC + MP group, n = 24) and tacrolimus combined with Tripterygium wilfordii polyglycoside (TAC + TWG group, n = 21). The remission rates of the TAC, TAC + MP, and TAC + TWG groups in the 10th month were 54.5, 62.5, and 85.7%, respectively (TAC + TWG group vs TAC group, P = 0.037, TAC + TWG group vs TAC + MP group, P = 0.125). Moreover, the complete remission rates of the TAC, TAC + MP, and TAC + TWG groups in the 10th month were 21.2, 20.8, and 57.1%, respectively (TAC + TWG group vs TAC group, P = 0.007, TAC + TWG group vs TAC + MP group, P = 0.012). Compared with the TAC group, the TAC + TWG group had a higher remission rate during these ten months (log-rank, P = 0.005). Compared with the TAC and TAC + MP groups, the TAC + TWG group had a higher complete remission rate (log-rank, P = 0.019 and log-rank, P = 0.005, respectively). CONCLUSION This retrospective study showed that TAC combined with TWG may be effective for treating IMN. Further randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are needed to assess the efficacy and safety of TAC combined with TWG.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shun-Lai Shang
- Department of Nephrology, Medical School of Chinese PLA, Chinese PLA Institute of Nephrology, State Key Laboratory of Kidney Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Kidney Diseases, Chinese PLA General Hospital, 28 Fuxing Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100853, China
| | - Guang-Yan Cai
- Department of Nephrology, Medical School of Chinese PLA, Chinese PLA Institute of Nephrology, State Key Laboratory of Kidney Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Kidney Diseases, Chinese PLA General Hospital, 28 Fuxing Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100853, China
| | - Shu-Wei Duan
- Department of Nephrology, Medical School of Chinese PLA, Chinese PLA Institute of Nephrology, State Key Laboratory of Kidney Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Kidney Diseases, Chinese PLA General Hospital, 28 Fuxing Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100853, China
| | - Ping Li
- Department of Nephrology, Medical School of Chinese PLA, Chinese PLA Institute of Nephrology, State Key Laboratory of Kidney Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Kidney Diseases, Chinese PLA General Hospital, 28 Fuxing Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100853, China
| | - Qing-Gang Li
- Department of Nephrology, Medical School of Chinese PLA, Chinese PLA Institute of Nephrology, State Key Laboratory of Kidney Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Kidney Diseases, Chinese PLA General Hospital, 28 Fuxing Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100853, China.
| | - Xiang-Mei Chen
- Department of Nephrology, Medical School of Chinese PLA, Chinese PLA Institute of Nephrology, State Key Laboratory of Kidney Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Kidney Diseases, Chinese PLA General Hospital, 28 Fuxing Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100853, China.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Toxic effects of Tripterygium wilfordii Hook F on the reproductive system of adolescent male rats. Biomed Pharmacother 2017; 95:1338-1345. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2017.09.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2017] [Revised: 08/17/2017] [Accepted: 09/10/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
|
5
|
Effects of Acremonium terricola culture on growth performance, antioxidant status and immune functions in weaned calves. Livest Sci 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.livsci.2016.09.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
|
6
|
Liu S, Li X, Li H, Liang Q, Chen J, Chen J. Comparison of tripterygium wilfordii multiglycosides and tacrolimus in the treatment of idiopathic membranous nephropathy: a prospective cohort study. BMC Nephrol 2015; 16:200. [PMID: 26637482 PMCID: PMC4669631 DOI: 10.1186/s12882-015-0199-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2015] [Accepted: 11/28/2015] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Idiopathic membranous nephropathy (IMN) is a major cause of nephrotic syndrome among adults. Considering the natural course of IMN, when to treat and with which immunosuppressive treatment need to be carefully considered in such patients. A combination of tripterygium wilfordii multiglycosides (TWG) and prednisone may be an effective option for treating patients with IMN. METHODS In this prospective cohort study, we enrolled patients with biopsy-proven IMN at our kidney centre. One cohort received TWG combined with prednisone, whereas another cohort received tacrolimus (TAC) combined with prednisone, for 36 weeks. The primary outcome was the remission rate, whereas the secondary outcomes included the time to remission, relapse rate, changes in serum albumin levels and daily urinary protein levels, estimated glomerular filtration rate, and adverse events. RESULTS A total of 53 patients with IMN met the criteria for enrollment, and all patients completed the therapy. At the end of the 36-week therapy, remission (either partial remission [PR] or complete remission [CR]) was observed in 20 patients (86.9 %) receiving TWG and in 27 patients (90.0 %) receiving TAC (p > 0.05), whereas CR was noted in 12 patients (52.2 %) receiving TWG and 14 patients (46.7 %) receiving TAC (p > 0.05). The probability of remission was similar for both the TWG and TAC groups (p > 0.05, by log-bank test). The mean time for achieving remission was 11.8 ± 12.5 weeks in the TWG group and 8.5 ± 9.1 weeks in the TAC group (p > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS The combination of TWG and predisone is an effective and safe therapy for IMN.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shanshan Liu
- Kidney Disease Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, 79 Qingchun Road, Hangzhou, 310003, Zhejiang Province, China.
| | - Xiayu Li
- Kidney Disease Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, 79 Qingchun Road, Hangzhou, 310003, Zhejiang Province, China.
| | - Heng Li
- Kidney Disease Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, 79 Qingchun Road, Hangzhou, 310003, Zhejiang Province, China.
| | - Qian Liang
- Kidney Disease Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, 79 Qingchun Road, Hangzhou, 310003, Zhejiang Province, China.
| | - Jun Chen
- Kidney Disease Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, 79 Qingchun Road, Hangzhou, 310003, Zhejiang Province, China.
| | - Jianghua Chen
- Kidney Disease Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, 79 Qingchun Road, Hangzhou, 310003, Zhejiang Province, China.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Brigham A, Bryan JK, Ceurvels J, Conquer J, Costa D, Culwell S, Giese N, Hashmi S, Hawkins EB, Isaac R, Le TD, LeBlanc Y, Liu A, Rusie-Seamon E, Grimes Serrano JM, Tanguay-Colucci S, Weissner W, Zhou S. Cordyceps (Cordyceps spp.): An Evidence-Based Systematic Review by the Natural Standard Research Collaboration. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013. [DOI: 10.1089/act.2013.19606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ashley Brigham
- Former pharmacy students at Northeastern University, in Boston, Massachusetts
| | - J. Kathryn Bryan
- The Natural Standard Research Collaboration, in Somerville, Massachusetts
| | - James Ceurvels
- Former pharmacy students at Northeastern University, in Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Julie Conquer
- President of RGB Consulting, in London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Dawn Costa
- The Natural Standard Research Collaboration, in Somerville, Massachusetts
| | - Samantha Culwell
- The Natural Standard Research Collaboration, in Somerville, Massachusetts
| | - Nicole Giese
- The Natural Standard Research Collaboration, in Somerville, Massachusetts
| | - Sadaf Hashmi
- A clinical assistant professor of psychiatry at the Brown University Alpert School of Medicine, in Providence, Rhode Island
| | | | - Richard Isaac
- The Natural Standard Research Collaboration, in Somerville, Massachusetts
| | - Thuy-Duong Le
- A former pharmacy student at Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon
| | - Yvonne LeBlanc
- The Natural Standard Research Collaboration, in Somerville, Massachusetts
| | - Angela Liu
- The Natural Standard Research Collaboration, in Somerville, Massachusetts
| | - Erica Rusie-Seamon
- The Natural Standard Research Collaboration, in Somerville, Massachusetts
| | | | | | - Wendy Weissner
- The Natural Standard Research Collaboration, in Somerville, Massachusetts
| | - Sara Zhou
- The Natural Standard Research Collaboration, in Somerville, Massachusetts
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Shashidhar M, Giridhar P, Udaya Sankar K, Manohar B. Bioactive principles from Cordyceps sinensis: A potent food supplement - A review. J Funct Foods 2013; 5:1013-1030. [PMID: 32288795 PMCID: PMC7104994 DOI: 10.1016/j.jff.2013.04.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2013] [Revised: 04/18/2013] [Accepted: 04/19/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Introducing the importance of Cordyceps sinensis (CS) and its economics. Alternative artificial cultivation methods for large scale production to meet the world demand for CS. Chemical characterization of compounds in different extracts of CS. Potential health benefits and mechanism of action of compounds in CS. Possible application of whole fungus or its extracts in food and pharmaceutical industries.
Cordyceps sinensis (CS) is a well-known entamophagus fungus, naturally distributed in the Tibetan Plateau of Asia and Himalayas. Recently this synonym is transferred to Ophiocordyceps by both scientific and non-scientific communities. It is widely used as a tonic and medicinal food in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), as it possess wonderful health benefits. To support its functional attributes, various investigations have been carried out to find out its adaptogenic, aphrodisiac, anti-oxidant, anti-aging, neuroprotective, nootropic, immunomodulatory, anti-cancer and hepatoprotective role. Its fruiting portion as well as the larvae possesses potent bio-active fractions and their composition almost found to be similar in both. The bioactive principles are nucleosides, exo-polysaccharides, sterols and, proteins, among others. Among nucleosides, adenosine and cordycepin are the major biochemical markers. Further, different types of solvent extracts and their mixtures exhibit wide range of pharmacological activities, while the water and methanol extracts with the richest sources of nucleosides and polysaccharides also show wide range of pharmacological activities. This review gives a panoramic view of potential health benefits of various classes of bio-active fractions along with the need for sustainable management of CS for human wellness.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M.G. Shashidhar
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research, Council of Scientific and Industrial research, New Delhi, India
- Department of Food Engineering, CSIR-Central Food Technological Research Institute, Mysore 570020, India
| | - P. Giridhar
- Department of Plant Cell Biotechnology, CSIR-Central Food Technological Research Institute, Mysore 570020, India
| | - K. Udaya Sankar
- Department of Food Engineering, CSIR-Central Food Technological Research Institute, Mysore 570020, India
| | - B. Manohar
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research, Council of Scientific and Industrial research, New Delhi, India
- Department of Food Engineering, CSIR-Central Food Technological Research Institute, Mysore 570020, India
- Corresponding author at: Department of Food Engineering, CSIR-Central Food Technological Research Institute, Mysore 570020, India. Fax: +91 821 2517233.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Zhou X, Luo L, Dressel W, Shadier G, Krumbiegel D, Schmidtke P, Zepp F, Meyer CU. Cordycepin is an Immunoregulatory Active Ingredient of Cordyceps sinensis. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF CHINESE MEDICINE 2012; 36:967-80. [DOI: 10.1142/s0192415x08006387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
We have reported that cordycepin, an adenosine derivative from the fungus Cordyceps, increased interleukin (IL)-10 expression, decreased IL-2 expression and suppressed T lymphocyte activity. In the present study, we further characterized the regulatory effects of cordycepin on human immune cells. Moreover, a traditional Chinese drug, Cordyceps sinensis (CS) that contains cordycepin, was also investigated. Cytometric Bead Array (CBA) was used to determine the concentrations of IL-1β, IL-2, IL-4, IL-5, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, IL-12, TNF-α and IFN-γ in culture of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). The results showed that both cordycepin and CS up-regulated IL-10, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8 and TNF-α; at the same time, they suppressed phytohemagglutinin (PHA)-induced production of IL-2, IL-4, IL-5, IFN-γ and IL-12. As compared to cordycepin, CS displayed its regulatory effects on IL-2 and IL-10 in a similar dose-dependent manner even with higher efficiency. The binding activity of transcription factors in a human monocytic cell line THP-1 was tested by the trans-AM method, and a higher binding activity of SP1 and SP3 was observed in cordycepin or CS treated cells compared to the control. These results led to the opinion that cordycepin and CS pleiotropically affected the actions of immune cells and cytokine network in a similar fashion. Cordycepin could be an important immunoregulatory active ingredient in Cordyceps sinensis. In addition, CS may contain substances which possess synergism with cordycepin, as CS showed a higher efficiency in the production of IL-10 and IL-2 than cordycepin. However, merits of these effects in pharmacology and clinical medicine have yet to be proven and the precise mechanism of these immune regulatory actions should be researched.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoxia Zhou
- Laboratory for Paediatric Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Children's Hospital, Johannes Gutenberg University of Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Liping Luo
- Laboratory for Paediatric Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Children's Hospital, Johannes Gutenberg University of Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Waike Dressel
- Laboratory for Paediatric Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Children's Hospital, Johannes Gutenberg University of Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Gulibahaer Shadier
- Laboratory for Paediatric Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Children's Hospital, Johannes Gutenberg University of Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Doreen Krumbiegel
- Laboratory for Paediatric Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Children's Hospital, Johannes Gutenberg University of Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Peter Schmidtke
- Laboratory for Paediatric Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Children's Hospital, Johannes Gutenberg University of Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Fred Zepp
- Laboratory for Paediatric Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Children's Hospital, Johannes Gutenberg University of Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Claudius U. Meyer
- Laboratory for Paediatric Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Children's Hospital, Johannes Gutenberg University of Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Abstract
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease with higher morbidity and mortality among ethnic Chinese patients than Whites. Corticosteroid and other immunosuppressive drugs, including cyclophosphamide, azathioprine, and hydroxychloroquine are traditional therapies for this disease. Since the year 2000, mycophenolate mofetil and rituximab have been widely used in refractory SLE or severe lupus nephritis. Because the high disease activity remains, even after active therapy, and serious side effects from Western medicines may develop, more than 40% of SLE patients in Western countries are pursuing complementary and alternative therapies (CATs). CAT remedies are multiplex, and include herbal medicines, diets and vitamins, acupuncture, chiropractice, folk medicine, massage, spiritual healing, etc. Many herbal formulas have been used but in general their efficacy in treating lupus is doubted because of the lack of strong evidence. Tripterygium (T2) has demonstrated good efficacy in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and SLE, but widespread use is limited due to the side effects. Through randomized clinical trials, we hope in the future that some Chinese medicines may be found helpful as CATs for SLE.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C-T. Chou
- Division of Allergy-Immunology-Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan,
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Abstract
Abstract
Cordyceps species, including C. sinensis, C. militaris, C. pruinosa and C. ophioglossoides, are prized traditional medicinal materials. The aim of this article is to review the chemical constituents and pharmacological actions of Cordyceps species. The chemical constituents include cordycepin (3′-deoxyadenosine) and its derivatives, ergosterol, polysaccharides, a glycoprotein and peptides containing α-aminoisobutyric acid. They include anti-tumour, anti-metastatic, immunomodulatory, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, insecticidal, antimicrobial, hypolipidaemic, hypoglycaemic, anti-ageing, neuroprotective and renoprotective effects. Polysaccharide accounts for the anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-tumour, anti-metastatic, immunomodulatory, hypoglycaemic, steroidogenic and hypolipidaemic effects. Cordycepin contributes to the anti-tumour, insecticidal and antibacterial activity. Ergosterol exhibits anti-tumour and immunomodulatory activity. A DNase has been characterized.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- T B Ng
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong, China.
| | | |
Collapse
|
12
|
Chen JL, Chen YC, Yang SH, Ko YF, Chen SY. Immunological alterations in lupus-prone autoimmune (NZB/NZW) F1 mice by mycelia Chinese medicinal fungus Cordyceps sinensis-induced redistributions of peripheral mononuclear T lymphocytes. Clin Exp Med 2009; 9:277-84. [PMID: 19350364 DOI: 10.1007/s10238-009-0043-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2008] [Accepted: 02/25/2009] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Mycelia products from wild-form Cordyceps sinensis could be constantly produced in a large scale and would be a better source of this herbal medicine. Our purpose was to investigate the immunological effects of an orally administered hot-water extract cultured mycelium of C. sinensis in lupus-prone (NZB/NZW) F1 hybrids. Forty female mice were divided into four groups and were given 2.4 mg/g/day oral doses of C. sinensis starting at three (group A), six (group B), or eight (group C) months of age, whereas the remaining group (group D) served as a control. Survival, proteinuria, and titers of anti-double-stranded DNA autoantibodies were evaluated. Treatment with C. sinensis resulted in increased survival, decreased proteinuria, and reduced titers of anti-double-stranded DNA antibody in groups A and B. Moreover, the mice in groups A and B showed significantly reduced percentages of CD4(+) T cells (*P < 0.05) and increased percentages of CD8(+) T cells in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) after C. sinensis administration. At 6 months of age, the proliferation rate of BrdU-incorporated spleen cells was significantly decreased after 48 and 72 h of C. sinensis treatment (**P < 0.01) in group A of mice. In conclusions, early medication with C. sinensis induced the redistribution of PBMC and attenuated the disease severity of lupus in (NZB/NZW) F1 mice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiun-Liang Chen
- Graduate Institute and School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chang-Gung University, Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chang-Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan, ROC
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
13
|
Li CY, Xu HX, Han QB, Wu TS. Quality assessment of Radix Codonopsis by quantitative nuclear magnetic resonance. J Chromatogr A 2008; 1216:2124-9. [PMID: 19004445 DOI: 10.1016/j.chroma.2008.10.080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2007] [Revised: 10/14/2008] [Accepted: 10/22/2008] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Radix Codonopsis (Dangshen) is a famous traditional Chinese medicine and has long been used for replenishing energy deficiency, strengthening the immune system, lowering blood pressure and improving appetite in China, Japan and Korea. A highly specific quantification method using (1)H NMR has been developed for the simultaneous determination of novel quaternary ammonium alkaloids codotubulosine A and B, adenosine and 5-(hydroxymethyl)furfural in Radix Codonopsis materials Codonopsis pilosula, C. pilosula var. modesta, C. tangshen, C. tubulosa, C. subglobosa, C. clematidea, C. lanceolota and Campanumoea javanica collected from different regions of China and Taiwan. A solid-phase extraction with C-18 cartridge followed by elution with water can easily remove sugars the major components that may affect the determination of target constituents. In the (1)H NMR spectrum, the signals of N-CH(3) of codotubulosine A (delta 2.75) and B (delta 2.83), H-8 of adenosine (delta 8.15), and CHO signal of 5-(hydroxymethyl)furfural (delta 9.49) are well separated from other signals in [(2)H(4)]methanol. The quantity of the compounds was calculated by the relative ratio of the integral values of the target peaks of each compound to the known amount of internal standard pyrazine. The described NMR method is found to be relatively simple, specific, precise and accurate for the quality control of Radix Codonopsis herbs and no reference compounds are required for calibration curves, in comparison to conventional HPLC methods, for instance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chia-Ying Li
- Department of Applied Chemistry and Life Science, National Pingtung University of Education, Pingtung 900, Taiwan
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
Ka Wai Lee S, Kwok Wong C, Kai Kong S, Nam Leung K, Wai Kei Lam C. Immunomodulatory Activities of HERBSnSENSES™Cordyceps—in Vitroandin VivoStudies. Immunopharmacol Immunotoxicol 2008; 28:341-60. [PMID: 16873101 DOI: 10.1080/08923970600809470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
The commercially available HERBSnSENSEStrade mark Cordyceps (HSCS) belongs to a cultivated strain of Cordyceps sinensis whose immunomodulatory activities has been renowned in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for centuries. The present report is the first that describes its immunomodulatory features through a series of in vitro and in vivo experiments. We measured, in peripheral blood mononuclear cells the in vitro effects of HSCS on the gene expression of cytokines and cytokine receptors, cytokine release, and surface expression of cytokine receptors using cDNA expression array, cytometric bead array (CBA), and immunoflorescence staining, respectively, as well as macrophage phagocytosis and monocyte production of H2O2 using flow cytometry. Sixty female BALB/c mice were fed with either HSCS (40 mg/kg/day) or water consecutively for 14 days. Proliferation, cytokine liberation, and CD3/4/8 expression of splenic cells were measured using 5-bromo-2'-deoxyuridine proliferation ELISA, CBA, and cytometry immunoflorescence staining, respectively. In vitro results demonstrated that HSCS induced the production of interleukin(IL)-1beta, IL-6, IL-10 and tumor necrosis factor alphaalpha from PBMC, augmented surface expression of CD25 on lymphocytes, and elevated macrophage phagocytosis and monocyte production of H2O2. In vivo results showed that HSCS did not induce splenomegaly and cytokine overliberation. Our results possibly provide the biochemical basis for future clinical trials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sharon Ka Wai Lee
- Department of Chemical Pathology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, Hong Kong
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
15
|
Paterson RRM. Cordyceps: a traditional Chinese medicine and another fungal therapeutic biofactory? PHYTOCHEMISTRY 2008; 69:1469-95. [PMID: 18343466 PMCID: PMC7111646 DOI: 10.1016/j.phytochem.2008.01.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 284] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2007] [Revised: 01/17/2008] [Accepted: 01/18/2008] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Traditional Chinese medicines (TCM) are growing in popularity. However, are they effective? Cordyceps is not studied as systematically for bioactivity as another TCM, Ganoderma. Cordyceps is fascinating per se, especially because of the pathogenic lifestyle on Lepidopteron insects. The combination of the fungus and dead insect has been used as a TCM for centuries. However, the natural fungus has been harvested to the extent that it is an endangered species. The effectiveness has been attributed to the Chinese philosophical concept of Yin and Yang and can this be compatible with scientific philosophy? A vast literature exists, some of which is scientific, although others are popular myth, and even hype. Cordyceps sinensis is the most explored species followed by Cordyceps militaris. However, taxonomic concepts were confused until a recent revision, with undefined material being used that cannot be verified. Holomorphism is relevant and contamination might account for some of the activity. The role of the insect has been ignored. Some of the analytical methodologies are poor. Data on the "old" compound cordycepin are still being published: ergosterol and related compounds are reported despite being universal to fungi. There is too much work on crude extracts rather than pure compounds with water and methanol solvents being over-represented in this respect (although methanol is an effective solvent). Excessive speculation exists as to the curative properties. However, there are some excellent pharmacological data and relating to apoptosis. For example, some preparations are active against cancers or diabetes which should be fully investigated. Polysaccharides and secondary metabolites are of particular interest. The use of genuine anamorphic forms in bioreactors is encouraged.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- R Russell M Paterson
- Institute for Biotechnology and Bioengineering (IBB), Centre of Biological Engineering, Campus de Gualtar, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Kuo MC, Chang CY, Cheng TL, Wu MJ. Immunomodulatory effect of exo-polysaccharides from submerged cultured Cordyceps sinensis: enhancement of cytokine synthesis, CD11b expression, and phagocytosis. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2007; 75:769-75. [PMID: 17310399 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-007-0880-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2006] [Revised: 02/01/2007] [Accepted: 02/03/2007] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Cordyceps sinensis is widely used as a traditional medicine for treatment of a wide variety of diseases or to maintain health. The immunomodulatory activity of polysaccharides prepared from submerged cultured C. sinensis BCRC36421 was investigated in human peripheral blood. Results demonstrated that Fr. A (exo-polysaccharides, 0.025 approximately 0.1 mg/ml) induced the production of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha), interleukin (IL)-6, and IL-10 dose-dependently. Fr. A, as low as 0.025 mg/ml, could significantly augment surface expression of CD11b in monocytes and polymorphonuclear neutrophils. Functional assay revealed that Fr. A (0.05 mg/ml) also elevated phagocytosis in monocytes and PMN. On the other hand, Fr. B (intracellular polysaccharides) only moderately induced TNF-alpha release, CD11b expression, and phagocytosis at the same concentrations. Our results indicate that the immunomodulatory components of submerged cultured C. sinensis mainly reside in the culture filtrate.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mei-Chun Kuo
- Department of Biotechnology, Chia-Nan University of Pharmacy and Science, Tainan, 717, Taiwan
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
Ng TB, Liu F, Wang HX. The antioxidant effects of aqueous and organic extracts of Panax quinquefolium, Panax notoginseng, Codonopsis pilosula, Pseudostellaria heterophylla and Glehnia littoralis. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2004; 93:285-288. [PMID: 15234766 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2004.03.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2004] [Revised: 03/18/2004] [Accepted: 03/25/2004] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
The roots of Panax quinquefolium, Panax notoginseng, Glehnia littoralis, Codonopsis pilosula and Pseudostellaria heterophylla were extracted with an aqueous extraction method and also with an organic extraction method. The aqueous extracts of Glehnia littoralis and Codonopsis pilosula were the most potent in inhibiting erythrocyte hemolysis. The aqueous extracts of Panax quinquefolium and Panax notoginseng had lower potencies while the aqueous extract of Pseudostellaria heterophylla and the organic extract of Panax quinquefolium were only weakly active. The organic extracts of Glehnia littoralis, Panax heterophylla and Panax quinquefolium were potent in inhibiting lipid peroxidation while the organic extracts of Codonopsis pilosula and Panax notoginseng had weaker potencies. The aqueous extracts possessed much lower potencies the corresponding organic extracts. However, the Glehnia littoralis extract was the most potent aqueous extract. The results suggest that Glehnia littoralis, Codonopsis pilosula, Panax notoginseng and Panax heterophylla are cheaper substitutes of Panax quinquefolium with regard to antioxidant activity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- T B Ng
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong, China.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
18
|
Yang LY, Chen A, Kuo YC, Lin CY. Efficacy of a pure compound H1-A extracted from Cordyceps sinensis on autoimmune disease of MRL lpr/lpr mice. THE JOURNAL OF LABORATORY AND CLINICAL MEDICINE 1999; 134:492-500. [PMID: 10560943 DOI: 10.1016/s0022-2143(99)90171-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Cordyceps sinensis (CS) is a traditional Chinese medicine with immunomodulatory effect and is effective in improving the survival of lupus mice. In the present study we isolated a pure compound (H1-A) from CS and investigated its effect on inhibiting autoimmune disease progression in MRL Ipr/Ipr mice. Our results demonstrated that MRL Ipr/Ipr mice treated daily with H1-A (40 microg/kg/d orally) for 8 weeks had a progressive reduction in anti-ds-DNA production (optical density value decreased from 0.172 +/- 0.009 to 0.112 +/- 0.015) when compared with the control group (optical density value increased from 0.141 +/- 0.036 to 0.198 +/- 0.047). In clinical presentation, the treated group had a reduction in lymphadenopathy, a delayed progression of proteinuria, and an improvement in kidney function. Histologic analysis of kidney tissue indicated that H 1-A could inhibit the mesangial proliferation that was evident in lupus nephritis. However, there was no significant change in immune complex deposition. The studies reveal that the pure compound (H1-A) may be potentially useful for treating systemic lupus erythematosus in human patients, and they provide some questions for further investigation of the pathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus and lupus nephritis.
Collapse
MESH Headings
- Animals
- Antibodies, Antinuclear/biosynthesis
- Disease Models, Animal
- Drug Evaluation, Preclinical
- Drugs, Chinese Herbal/chemistry
- Drugs, Chinese Herbal/isolation & purification
- Drugs, Chinese Herbal/pharmacology
- Female
- Humans
- Hypocreales/chemistry
- Immunosuppressive Agents/chemistry
- Immunosuppressive Agents/isolation & purification
- Immunosuppressive Agents/pharmacology
- In Vitro Techniques
- Interleukin-2/biosynthesis
- Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic/drug therapy
- Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic/etiology
- Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic/physiopathology
- Lupus Nephritis/pathology
- Lupus Nephritis/physiopathology
- Lupus Nephritis/prevention & control
- Lymphatic Diseases/drug therapy
- Male
- Mice
- Mice, Inbred MRL lpr
- Proteinuria/drug therapy
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- L Y Yang
- Department of Pediatrics, Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|