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Kim Y, Lee S, Jin M, Choi YA, Choi JK, Kwon TK, Khang D, Kim SH. Aspalathin, a Primary Rooibos Flavonoid, Alleviates Mast Cell-Mediated Allergic Inflammation by the Inhibition of FcεRI Signaling Pathway. Inflammation 2024:10.1007/s10753-024-02034-1. [PMID: 38777857 DOI: 10.1007/s10753-024-02034-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2024] [Revised: 04/16/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Mast cells are primary cells initiating allergic inflammation by the release of various allergic mediators, such as histamine and pro-inflammatory cytokines. Aspalathin (ASP) is the predominant flavonoid found exclusively in rooibos, an herb that has been traditionally used in allergy relief therapy. In the present study, we investigated the beneficial effects of ASP on mast cell-mediated allergic inflammation. For in vivo study, two well-known mast cell-mediated local and systemic allergic inflammation mouse models were used: passive cutaneous anaphylaxis (PCA) and active systemic anaphylaxis mouse models (ASA). Oral administration of ASP dose-dependently suppressed immunoglobulin (Ig)E-mediated PCA responses evidenced by Evans blue extravasation, ear thickening, and mast cell degranulation. ASP also significantly mitigated ovalbumin-induced ASA responses, including hypothermia, histamine secretion, and the production of IgE and interleukin-4. Notably, ASP was more effective in suppressing allergic inflammation than nothofagin, another prominent flavonoid known as an anti-allergic component of rooibos. The regulatory mechanism of mast cell activation by ASP was clarified using mast cell line and primary cultured mast cells (RBL-2H3 and mouse bone marrow-derived mast cells). ASP reduced IgE-stimulated mast cells degranulation and intracellular calcium influx by the inhibition of FcεRI signaling pathway (Lyn, Fyn, and Syk). Moreover, ASP reduced pro-inflammatory cytokine expressions by inhibiting two major transcription factors, nuclear factor of activated T cells and nuclear factor-κB. Collectively, we proposed that ASP could be a potential therapeutic candidate for the treatment of mast cell-mediated allergic inflammatory diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yeyoung Kim
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, CMRI, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, 41944, Republic of Korea
| | - Soyoung Lee
- Immunoregulatory Materials Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Jeongeup, 56212, Republic of Korea
| | - Meiling Jin
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Yanbian National University, Yanji, 133001, China
| | - Young-Ae Choi
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, CMRI, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, 41944, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin Kyeong Choi
- Department of Immunology, Jeonbuk National University Medical School, Jeonju, 54896, Republic of Korea
| | - Taeg Kyu Kwon
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Keimyung University, Daegu, 42601, Republic of Korea
| | - Dongwoo Khang
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Gachon University, Incheon, 21999, Republic of Korea.
| | - Sang-Hyun Kim
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, CMRI, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, 41944, Republic of Korea.
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Gachon University, Incheon, 21999, Republic of Korea.
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2
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Pretorius L, Smith C. Translation of preclinical ethnomedicine data in LMICs: the example of rooibos. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1328828. [PMID: 38174224 PMCID: PMC10763253 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1328828] [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: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
All disease, but especially non-communicable diseases, are related to dysfunction of one or more regulatory systems. In developing countries, long-term management of patients with chronic diseases has many challenges and is generally not financially viable, but Africa in particular, which is rich in diverse ethnomedicines presents a more feasible long-term therapeutic approach in this niche. However, despite comprehensive preclinical investigations on numerous plant-derived candidate medicines, only a small portion of these reach the patient as recognised medicines. In this review, we use the example of rooibos (Aspalathus linearis (Burm.f.) R. Dahlgren)-which is globally consumed as aromatic, caffeine-free tea-to illustrate the hurdles that need to be overcome in the low-to middle-income countries, before progression of ethnomedicines to official treatment regimens can be achieved. In terms of methodology, regulatory system focused rooibos papers indexed on PubMed for the past three decades (n = 112) were accessed. Papers reporting duplication of previous results were excluded, as well as review papers. Topics covered includes the high standard of ethnomedicine drug discovery and efficacy testing research performed in Africa (and South Africa in particular in the case of rooibos), the potential bias in terms of preclinical research focus, ethnomedicine ownership and the requirement for independent clinical trial coordination and/or management.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Carine Smith
- Experimental Medicine, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
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3
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Pyrzanowska J. The toxic contaminants of Aspalathus linearis plant material as well as herb-drug interactions may constitute the health risk factors in daily rooibos tea consumers. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH RESEARCH 2023; 33:129-142. [PMID: 34823434 DOI: 10.1080/09603123.2021.2009780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Rooibos tea is brewed using Aspalathus linearis plant material sensitive to environmental contamination. This review covers the safety data from preclinical experiments as well as human studies and delivers a report on its hepatic activity. In vitro tea investigation reveals antioxidative and anti-mutagenic features and ability to modulate microsomal enzymes. In rodent research, it exerts protective or neutral impact on liver functions and morphology, yet several human case reports suggest possible acute hepatic damage. Summarizing rooibos consumption seems to be safe in terms of hepatotoxicity; however, there may be designated a group of consumers with higher risk of liver irritation. The contamination of plant material may contribute to herb-induced liver injury. Due to the impact on CYPs, there is a possible risk of herb-drug interactions affecting bioavailability of some co-administered medicines. Caution should be exercised in patients receiving the treatment with allopathic medicines to avoid untoward alteration of drug plasma concentration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justyna Pyrzanowska
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University of Warsaw, Centre for Preclinical Research and Technology CePT, Warsaw, Poland
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4
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Golzar Adabi S, Karimi Torshizi MA, Raei H, Marnewick JL. Effect of dietary n-3 fatty acid and rooibos (Aspalathus linearis) supplementation on semen quality, sperm fatty acids and reproductive performance of aged male broiler breeders. J Anim Physiol Anim Nutr (Berl) 2023; 107:248-261. [PMID: 35322475 DOI: 10.1111/jpn.13705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2021] [Revised: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 03/02/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of dietary fish oil (FO) and rooibos supplementation on semen quality, fatty acids composition and reproductive performance of aged male broiler breeders. Seventy-two 47-week-old Ross broiler breeder roosters were randomly assigned to a 2 × 3 factorial arrangements to include two FO concentrations (0% and 2%) and 3 rooibos concentrations (0%, 1.5% and 3%) for 13 weeks consecutive. The different diets affected semen parameters significantly (p < 0.05), except for the semen concentration and abnormality of the sperm. The sperm of the FO and 3% rooibos-treated group showed better motility and viability when compared to the other groups (p < 0.05). The susceptibility of semen to lipid peroxidation was increased in roosters fed the rooibos-free diets (p < 0.05), but it was reduced (p < 0.05) when the diet was supplemented with 1.5% and 3% rooibos. In addition, at 64 weeks, the highest concentration of testosterone was observed in the roosters fed a diet that included 2% FO and 3% rooibos (p < 0.05); however, the difference in testosterone levels between Week 52 and Week 64 was not significant (p > 0.05). The fertility rate of collected eggs from the FO and 3% rooibos group was higher (p < 0.05) than that of the other groups at the end of the experiment. In conclusion, dietary inclusion of FO along with rooibos improved seminal quality and reproduction performance in aged roosters.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Hamid Raei
- Department of Poultry Science, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Jeanine L Marnewick
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Applied Microbial and Health Biotechnology Institute, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, Bellville, South Africa
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5
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Takalani NB, Adefolaju GA, Henkel RR, Opuwari CS. In vitro effects of aqueous extract of unfermented rooibos on human spermatozoa. Andrologia 2022; 54:e14452. [PMID: 35545422 PMCID: PMC9541412 DOI: 10.1111/and.14452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2021] [Revised: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 04/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The inability to conceive is a baleful experience for thousands of couples worldwide. Among different well‐known reproductive techniques, medicinal plants have been utilized to treat male infertility. Medicinal plants, provide a therapeutic alternative, which is available and affordable for infertile couples. We investigated the direct effect of unfermented rooibos aqueous extract on human spermatozoa. Semen samples (n = 50) collected from donors and patients consulting for fertility were reassigned as normal (n = 22) and abnormal (n = 28) samples based on the outcome of the baseline semen analysis, using the World Health Organization (WHO) cut off value. Semen samples were allowed to liquefy and subsequently washed with human tubular fluid in bovine serum albumin medium. The samples were then treated with aqueous extracts of unfermented rooibos (0, 0.15, 1.5, 15, 150 μg/ml) at 37°C for 1 h and assessed thereafter. Sperm motility, vitality, DNA fragmentation, intracellular reactive oxygen species and mitochondrial membrane potential in both groups remained unchanged (p > 0.05). However, aqueous extract of unfermented rooibos (only at 1.5 μg/ml) significantly increased capacitation and acrosome reaction in the abnormal sample group (p > 0.05). Unfermented rooibos aqueous extract had no deleterious impact on human spermatozoa's function and might be attributed to its antioxidant properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ndivhuho Beauty Takalani
- Department of Medical Biosciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of the Western Cape, Cape Town, South Africa.,Department of Pathology and Medical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Limpopo, Sovenga, South Africa
| | | | - Ralf R Henkel
- Department of Medical Biosciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of the Western Cape, Cape Town, South Africa.,American Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland, Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, USA.,Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, UK.,LogixX Pharma, Theale, Berkshire, UK
| | - Chinyerum Sylvia Opuwari
- Department of Medical Biosciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of the Western Cape, Cape Town, South Africa
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6
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Takalani NB, Adefolaju GA, Henkel R, Opuwari CS. In vitro effects of aqueous extract of fermented rooibos (Aspalathus linearis) on human sperm function. Andrologia 2021; 53:e14114. [PMID: 33991107 DOI: 10.1111/and.14114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Revised: 03/31/2021] [Accepted: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Aspalathus linearis (rooibos) is a herbal medicinal plant originally from South Africa's fynbos and well known for its medicinal effects in treating different medical conditions. Rooibos contains significant levels of antioxidants capable of inhibiting the production of reactive oxygen species, which may improve seminal parameters. This study focussed on investigating the direct effect of fermented rooibos on human sperm functions in vitro. Semen samples collected by masturbation from unproven fertile donors (n = 25) and infertile patients (n = 25) after 3-5 days' abstinence were liquefied and centrifuged (300 × g; 10 min) in human tubular fluid medium containing 1% bovine serum albumin. Afterwards, semen samples (7.5 × 106 /ml) were incubated at 37°C for one hour with aqueous extract of fermented extract in sperm preparation medium (0, 0.10, 1.0, 10 and 100 μg/ml) and assessed. Our data showed that fermented rooibos did not affect functional sperm parameters (motility, vitality, intracellular reactive oxygen species and acrosome reaction, p > .05), in vitro except in the reduced percentage of intact mitochondrial membrane potential and DNA fragmentation (p < .05). The decrease in DNA fragmentation generates the possibility of using the extract in patients prior to assisted reproductive techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Ralf Henkel
- Department of Medical Biosciences, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, South Africa.,American Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
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7
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Carrier P, Debette-Gratien M, Jacques J, Grau M, Loustaud-Ratti V. Rooibos, a fake friend. Clin Res Hepatol Gastroenterol 2021; 45:101499. [PMID: 32828746 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinre.2020.06.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2020] [Accepted: 06/19/2020] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Rooibos is consumed worldwide and its use considered safe. It contains scavengers of free radicals and is so is deemed to be a liver protector. Nevertheless, hepatic toxicity exists even if rare. It is probably underdiagnosed and clinicians should think about it in case of acute hepatitis. We report a case of liver injury attributed to Rooibos.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Carrier
- Hepatology Unit, Limoges Dupuytren Teaching Hospital, Avenue Martin Luther King, 87042 Limoges, France.
| | - Marilyne Debette-Gratien
- Hepatology Unit, Limoges Dupuytren Teaching Hospital, Avenue Martin Luther King, 87042 Limoges, France; INSERM U-1248, Faculté de Médecine et de Pharmacie, Rue du Docteur Marcland, 87042 Limoges, France
| | - Jérémie Jacques
- Hepatology Unit, Limoges Dupuytren Teaching Hospital, Avenue Martin Luther King, 87042 Limoges, France
| | - Muriel Grau
- Pharmacology Unit, Limoges Dupuytren Teaching Hospital, Limoges 87042, France
| | - Véronique Loustaud-Ratti
- Hepatology Unit, Limoges Dupuytren Teaching Hospital, Avenue Martin Luther King, 87042 Limoges, France; INSERM U-1248, Faculté de Médecine et de Pharmacie, Rue du Docteur Marcland, 87042 Limoges, France
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8
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Tanui HK, Hussein AA, Luckay RC. Selective removal of iron(III), lead(II) and copper(II) ions by polar crude phytochemicals recovered from ten South African plants: identification of plant phytochemicals. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOREMEDIATION 2020; 23:755-764. [PMID: 33290091 DOI: 10.1080/15226514.2020.1857332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
This work consists of gathering the leaves of ten different South African plants from the local reserve. Black and green tea were sourced commercially. The plants were air dried and polar crude material extracted using deionized water. These crude phytochemicals were used as green chelators to remove metal ions from an aqueous solution. Iron(III), lead(II) and copper(II) ions were competitively removed from an eight metal ion solution with iron(III) being removed at more than 80% followed by lead(II) with greater than 40% removal and copper(II) with removal values of more than 20%. Metal ion removal was shown to be affected by change in pH of the solution, indicating that removal took place via the pH-swing mechanism. As the pH is increased, iron(III) is first removed followed by lead(II) and then copper(II). Iron(III) and lead(II) were selectively removed even at a 10-fold dilution level compared to the other metal ions present. Loading tests showed that iron(III) removal does not change, but for lead(II) and copper(II) there is a noticeable increase in removal with an increase in the amount of crude. The phytochemicals in the crude were identified using Liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Some crudes had similar phytochemicals (quercetin) while others had unique compounds. Statement of novelty It is the first time that crude polar phytochemicals from South African plants are used as green chelators. These green chelators selectively remove iron(III), lead(II) and copper(II) from a mix of eight different base metal ions. Iron(III) can be selectively removed at pH as low as 3.00 and, when iron(III) and lead(II) are 10 times more dilute compared to the other metal ions, iron(III) and lead(II) are still selectively removed. Liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) is used to identify some of the phytochemicals present in these plants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hillary K Tanui
- Department of Chemistry and Polymer Science, Stellenbosch University, Matieland, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | - Ahmed A Hussein
- Chemistry Department, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, Bellville, South Africa
| | - Robert C Luckay
- Department of Chemistry and Polymer Science, Stellenbosch University, Matieland, Stellenbosch, South Africa
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9
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Millar DA, Bowles S, Windvogel SL, Louw J, Muller CJF. Effect of Rooibos (Aspalathus linearis) extract on atorvastatin-induced toxicity in C3A liver cells. J Cell Physiol 2020; 235:9487-9496. [PMID: 32458430 PMCID: PMC7586973 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.29756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2020] [Revised: 04/22/2020] [Accepted: 04/22/2020] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Rooibos (Aspalathus linearis) has various health benefits. Two case studies have associated chronic Rooibos consumption with conventional prescription medications, including atorvastatin (ATV), with hepatotoxicity. Statins act by inhibiting hydroxymethylglutaryl‐coenzyme A reductase, a rate‐limiting enzyme in cholesterol synthesis. Although rare, statins are potentially hepatotoxic. The aim was to investigate interactions between aspalathin‐rich Rooibos extract GRT™ and ATV‐induced hepatotoxicity in C3A liver cells cultured with and without palmitate. Effects of co‐treatment of GRT + ATV on cell viability, oxidative stress, apoptosis, mitochondrial integrity, and cellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) production were assessed. Significantly increased ROS production was observed in cells exposed to ATV and palmitate. Combination therapy of GRT + ATV also showed significant increases in ROS production. Under palmitate‐treated conditions, ATV‐induced significant apoptosis which was not ameliorated by GRT + ATV co‐treatment. Despite studies purporting hepatoprotection from Rooibos, our study showed that GRT was unable to modulate ATV‐induced hepatotoxic effects in this model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle A Millar
- Biomedical Research and Innovation Platform, Grants, Innovation and Product Development Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Tygerberg, South Africa
| | - Sandra Bowles
- Biomedical Research and Innovation Platform, Grants, Innovation and Product Development Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Tygerberg, South Africa
| | - Shantal Lynn Windvogel
- Centre for Cardio-metabolic Research in Africa (CARMA), Division of Medical Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, South Africa.,Division of Medical Physiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, South Africa
| | - Johan Louw
- Biomedical Research and Innovation Platform, Grants, Innovation and Product Development Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Tygerberg, South Africa
| | - Christo J F Muller
- Biomedical Research and Innovation Platform, Grants, Innovation and Product Development Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Tygerberg, South Africa.,Division of Medical Physiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, South Africa.,Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, University of Zululand, Kwadlangezwa, South Africa
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10
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Pedretti S, Peter J. Rooibos herbal tea reduces allergic basophil activation in adult atopic patients. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2020; 252:112353. [PMID: 31672527 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2019.112353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2019] [Revised: 10/23/2019] [Accepted: 10/24/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Pedretti
- Allergy and Immunology Unit, University of Cape Town Lung Institute, South Africa
| | - Jonny Peter
- Allergy and Immunology Unit, University of Cape Town Lung Institute, South Africa; Division of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Department of Medicine, University of Cape Town, South Africa.
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11
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Layman JI, Pereira DL, Chellan N, Huisamen B, Kotzé SH. A histomorphometric study on the hepatoprotective effects of a green rooibos extract in a diet-induced obese rat model. Acta Histochem 2019; 121:646-656. [PMID: 31153588 DOI: 10.1016/j.acthis.2019.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2018] [Revised: 05/21/2019] [Accepted: 05/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Obesity, type two diabetes mellitus and insulin resistance are associated with increased oxidative stress and inflammation. Unfermented green rooibos is an aspalathin rich variant of traditional fermented rooibos (Aspalathus linearis) and has a high polyphenol content. The present study aimed to determine the histologically observable effects of a commercially produced, aspalathin-rich green rooibos extract, Afriplex GRT™ (GRE) in a diet-induced obese rat model. Male Wistar rats (N = 28) were randomly assigned to four study groups (n = 7): control (C), green rooibos (GRT), high-fat diet (HFD) and experimental (HFD-GRT) group. Body mass was determined prior to euthanasia and liver mass was determined after death. The left lateral lobe of the liver was processed to wax and stained using haematoxylin and eosin (H & E), Masson's trichrome stain, Gordons and Sweet's reticulin impregnation and periodic acid-Schiff stain. Frozen liver tissue sections were used for Oil red O staining. Morphometric quantification of steatosis, semiquantitative pathology grading and scoring were performed and verified by a veterinary histopathologist. A significant increase in body and liver mass was observed in the HFD groups while co-treatment with green rooibos significantly reduced both. The volume and area of steatosis were significantly increased in the HFD groups while the area of steatosis significantly reduced with green rooibos co-treatment. The percentage, location and type of steatosis as well as presence of inflammation and hepatocellular injury were reduced in the HFD group co-treated with GRE. These findings suggest that a GRE has potential as an anti-steatotic, anti-inflammatory and weight reducing agent in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- J I Layman
- Division of Clinical Anatomy, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, South Africa
| | - D L Pereira
- Division of Clinical Anatomy, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, South Africa
| | - N Chellan
- Biomedical Research and Innovation Platform, South African Medical Research Council, Tygerberg, South Africa
| | - B Huisamen
- Division of Medical Physiology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, South Africa; Biomedical Research and Innovation Platform, South African Medical Research Council, Tygerberg, South Africa
| | - S H Kotzé
- Division of Clinical Anatomy, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, South Africa.
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12
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Mazibuko-Mbeje SE, Dludla PV, Johnson R, Joubert E, Louw J, Ziqubu K, Tiano L, Silvestri S, Orlando P, Opoku AR, Muller CJF. Aspalathin, a natural product with the potential to reverse hepatic insulin resistance by improving energy metabolism and mitochondrial respiration. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0216172. [PMID: 31048842 PMCID: PMC6497260 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0216172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2019] [Accepted: 04/14/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Aspalathin is a rooibos flavonoid with established blood glucose lowering properties, however, its efficacy to moderate complications associated with hepatic insulin resistance is unknown. To study such effects, C3A liver cells exposed to palmitate were used as a model of hepatic insulin resistance. These hepatocytes displayed impaired substrate metabolism, including reduced glucose transport and free fatty acid uptake. These defects included impaired insulin signaling, evident through reduced phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphate 3-kinase/ protein kinase B (PI3K/AKT) protein expression, and mitochondrial dysfunction, depicted by a lower mitochondrial respiration rate. Aspalathin was able to ameliorate these defects by correcting altered substrate metabolism, improving insulin signaling and mitochondrial bioenergetics. Activation of 5'-adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) may be a plausible mechanism by which aspalathin increases hepatic energy expenditure. Overall, these results encourage further studies assessing the potential use of aspalathin as a nutraceutical to improve hepatocellular energy expenditure, and reverse metabolic disease-associated complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sithandiwe E. Mazibuko-Mbeje
- Biomedical Research and Innovation Platform, South African Medical Research Council, Tygerberg, South Africa
- Division of Medical Physiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, South Africa
| | - Phiwayinkosi V. Dludla
- Biomedical Research and Innovation Platform, South African Medical Research Council, Tygerberg, South Africa
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Rabia Johnson
- Biomedical Research and Innovation Platform, South African Medical Research Council, Tygerberg, South Africa
- Division of Medical Physiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, South Africa
| | - Elizabeth Joubert
- Plant Bioactives Group, Post-Harvest and Agro-Processing Technologies, Agricultural Research Council, Infruitec-Nietvoorbij, Stellenbosch, South Africa
- Department of Food Science, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | - Johan Louw
- Division of Medical Physiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, South Africa
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, University of Zululand, KwaDlangezwa, South Africa
| | - Khanyisani Ziqubu
- Division of Medical Physiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, South Africa
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, University of Zululand, KwaDlangezwa, South Africa
| | - Luca Tiano
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Sonia Silvestri
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Patrick Orlando
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Andy R. Opoku
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, University of Zululand, KwaDlangezwa, South Africa
| | - Christo J. F. Muller
- Biomedical Research and Innovation Platform, South African Medical Research Council, Tygerberg, South Africa
- Division of Medical Physiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, South Africa
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, University of Zululand, KwaDlangezwa, South Africa
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13
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Kang BC, Kim MJ, Lee S, Choi YA, Park PH, Shin TY, Kwon TK, Khang D, Kim SH. Nothofagin suppresses mast cell-mediated allergic inflammation. Chem Biol Interact 2018; 298:1-7. [PMID: 30392763 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2018.10.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2018] [Revised: 08/16/2018] [Accepted: 10/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Mast cells play a major role in immunoglobulin E-mediated allergic inflammation, which is involved in asthma, atopic dermatitis, and allergic rhinitis. Nothofagin has been shown to ameliorate various inflammatory responses such as the septic response and vascular inflammation. In this study, we assessed the inhibitory effect of nothofagin on allergic inflammation using cultured/isolated mast cells and an anaphylaxis mouse model. Nothofagin treatment prevented histamine and β-hexosaminidase release by reducing the influx of calcium into the cytosol in a concentration-dependent manner. Nothofagin also inhibited the gene expression and secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin-4 by downregulating the phosphorylation of Lyn, Syk, Akt and nuclear translocation of nuclear factor-κB. To confirm these effects of nothofagin in vivo, we used a passive cutaneous anaphylaxis mouse model. Topical administration of nothofagin suppressed local pigmentation and ear thickness. Taken together, these results suggest nothofagin as a potential candidate for the treatment of mast cell-involved allergic inflammatory diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Byeong-Cheol Kang
- CMRI, Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Min-Jong Kim
- CMRI, Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Soyoung Lee
- Immunoregulatory Materials Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Jeongeup, Republic of Korea
| | - Young-Ae Choi
- CMRI, Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Pil-Hoon Park
- College of Pharmacy, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan, Republic of Korea
| | - Tae-Yong Shin
- College of Pharmacy, Woosuk University, Jeonju, Republic of Korea
| | - Taeg Kyu Kwon
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Keimyung University, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Dongwoo Khang
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Gachon University, Incheon, Republic of Korea.
| | - Sang-Hyun Kim
- CMRI, Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Republic of Korea.
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14
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Cody RB. Ambient Profiling of Phenolic Content in Tea Infusions by Matrix-Assisted Ionization in Vacuum. JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN SOCIETY FOR MASS SPECTROMETRY 2018; 29:1594-1600. [PMID: 29845560 DOI: 10.1007/s13361-018-1990-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2017] [Revised: 05/04/2018] [Accepted: 05/04/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Matrix-assisted ionization in vacuum (MAIV) was used to analyze the polyphenol content of ten different tea infusions. Nine different Camellia sinensis infusions were analyzed including three green teas, two black teas, two oolong teas, jasmine tea, and white tea. An infusion of rooibos (Aspalathus linearis) tea was also analyzed. Each freshly brewed tea was diluted 1:1 with methanol, and 100 ppm of phenolphthalein was added as an internal standard. An excess of 3-nitrobenzonitrile (NBN) was added to each vial, and the solution containing NBN crystals was analyzed by aspiration directly into the mass spectrometer sampling orifice. A working curve constructed for dilutions of catechin with phenolphthalein internal standard showed good linearity for five replicates of each concentration. The measured relative abundances of flavonoid polyphenols in each tea were in good agreement with previously reported values. Polyphenol content in tea infusions varied from 19.2 to 108.6 mg 100 mL-1. In addition to the expected catechin flavonoids, abundant quinic acid and gallic acid was detected in the C. sinensis infusions. Characteristic A. linearis flavonoids were detected in the rooibos tea. Graphical Abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert B Cody
- JEOL USA, Inc., 11 Dearborn Road, Peabody, MA, 01960, USA.
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15
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Abdalla MA, McGaw LJ. Bioprospecting of South African Plants as a Unique Resource for Bioactive Endophytic Microbes. Front Pharmacol 2018; 9:456. [PMID: 29867466 PMCID: PMC5966565 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2018.00456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2017] [Accepted: 04/18/2018] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
South Africa has a long history and strong belief in traditional herbal medicines. Using ethnobotanical knowledge as a lead, a large number of South African medicinal plants have been discovered to possess a wide spectrum of pharmacological properties. In this review, bioprospecting of endophytes is highlighted by following the advantages of the ethnomedicinal approach together with identifying unique medicinal plants where biological activity may be due to endophytes. This review focuses on the current status of South African medicinal plants to motivate the research community to harness the benefits of ethnobotanical knowledge to investigate the presence of endophytic microbes from the most potent South African medicinal plants. The potential chemical diversity and subsequent putative medicinal value of endophytes is deserving of further research. A timely and comprehensive review of literature on recently isolated endophytes and their metabolites was conducted. Worldwide literature from the last 2 years demonstrating the importance of ethnobotanical knowledge as a useful approach to discover endophytic microbes was documented. Information was obtained from scientific databases such as Pubmed, Scopus, Scirus, Google Scholar, Dictionary of Natural Products, Chemical Abstracts Services, official websites, and scientific databases on ethnomedicines. Primary sources such as books, reports, dissertations, and thesises were accessed where available. Recently published information on isolated endophytes with promising bioactivity and their bioactive natural products worldwide (2015-2017) was summarized. The potential value of South African medicinal plants as sources of endophytes is discussed. The insights provided through this study indicate that medicinal plants in South Africa are highly under-investigated sources of potentially useful endophytic microbes. New approaches may be used by medicinal plant scientists for further exploration of natural products from endophytic fungi and bacteria in southern Africa.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lyndy J. McGaw
- Phytomedicine Programme, Department of Paraclinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
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