Nigella sativa (black cumin) seed extract alleviates symptoms of allergic diarrhea in mice, involving opioid receptors

Effect of Nigella sativa on general health and immune system in young healthy volunteers; a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blinded clinical trial

Nigella sativa ( N. sativa) is traditionally used as an immune enhancer in different communities. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of N. sativa on immunity related parameters in young healthy subjects. This study was a double blind, randomized, placebo controlled clinical trial. Fifty-two healthy subjects (48 male and 4 female) 18-25 years old were enrolled in the study. They were randomly divided into four groups; the first received charcoal capsules and served as controls and the other three received 0.5, 1 g, and 2 g of powdered N. sativa capsules, respectively. Two blood samples were obtained from all participant, before initiation of the trial and at the end of the four weeks intervention. One sample was used for routine health screening by evaluating liver and renal functions as well as complete blood count and differential. The second sample was used to measure certain cytokines including; IL-1, IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, and TNF. A third and fourth samples were obtained from the last cohort of subjects before and after treatment; the third was used for measuring immunoglobulins and CD profile and the fourth for evaluating certain gene expressions (INF-γ, NF-κ-B, TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-13, IL-8, and IL-6). Only 1 g dose of N. sativa produced a significant elevation in total lymphocyte count, CD3+ and CD4+ counts. One gram N. sativa increased the absolute lymphocyte count from 1850±0.24 to 2170±0.26 (p=0.008), CD3+ from 1184.4±75.60 to 1424±114.51 (p=0.009), and CD4+ from 665.6±141.66 to 841±143.36 (p=0.002).  This elevation in T cells was lost by increasing the dose of N. sativa to 2g. The rest of the parameters were not changed significantly in all doses. The results show a promising immunopotentiation effect of N. sativa by elevating helper T cells and the optimum dose for young age group seems to be 1 g.

Crosstalk between Mu-Opioid receptors and neuroinflammation: Consequences for drug addiction and pain

Mu-Opioid Receptors (MORs) are well-known for participating in analgesia, sedation, drug addiction, and other physiological functions. Although MORs have been related to neuroinflammation their biological mechanism remains unclear. It is suggested that MORs work alongside Toll-Like Receptors to enhance the release of pro-inflammatory mediators and cytokines during pathological conditions. Some cytokines, including TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6, have been postulated to regulate MORs levels by both avoiding MOR recycling and enhancing its production. In addition, Neurokinin-1 Receptor, also affected during neuroinflammation, could be regulating MOR trafficking. Therefore, inflammation in the central nervous system seems to be associated with altered/increased MORs expression, which might regulate harmful processes, such as drug addiction and pain. Here, we provide a critical evaluation on MORs' role during neuroinflammation and its implication for these conditions. Understanding MORs' functioning, their regulation and implications on drug addiction and pain may help elucidate their potential therapeutic use against these pathological conditions and associated disorders.

The effect of hydro alcoholic extract of Nigella sativa seeds on inflammatory mediators in C6 glioma cell line

SUBJECT

Nigella sativa (N. sativa) is a highly valued nutritional plant, which has long been used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of human diseases. The multifaceted pharmacological impacts of N. sativa, such as attenuating oxidative stress and inflammation, make it a suitable therapeutic candidate against cardiovascular, hepatic, and neurological disorders as well as cancer. Therefore, the current study aimed to evaluate the effect of the hydroalcoholic extract of N. sativa seeds on several pro-inflammatory cytokines in the C6 glioma cell line and to compare it with the effect of the extract on the normal fibroblast cell line.

METHODS

C6 and fibroblast cell lines were treated with the extract of N. sativa seeds, and 3-(4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2, 5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay was performed to determine the half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) after 72h of treatment. Real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) was carried out to assess the expression levels of interleukin (IL)-6, IL-10, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and transforming growth factor- β1 (TGF-β1) at the mRNA level in both cell lines after 72h of treatment with non-toxic and IC50 concentrations obtained from C6 cell line.

RESULTS

The IC50 values for the hydroalcoholic extract of N. sativa seeds were 260±20μg/mL in the C6 cell line and 398±27μg/mL in fibroblast cells. The real-time PCR results indicated that the treatment of C6 and fibroblast cells with the extract at the IC50 value of N. sativa in C6 for 72h could increase the mRNA expression levels of IL-10 and reduce the mRNA expression levels of IL-6, TNF-α, and TGF-β1 in C6 and fibroblast cells. The N. sativa extract showed a higher anti-inflammatory effect on C6 cells in comparison with fibroblast cells.

CONCLUSIONS

Regarding the anti-inflammatory effect of Nigella sativa in C6 cell line, it may be considered a promising candidate to fortify antitumor actions in combination with other therapeutic options in the treatment of patients with GBM.

The Kappa Opioid Receptor: A Promising Therapeutic Target for Multiple Pathologies

Kappa-opioid receptors (KOR) are widely expressed throughout the central nervous system, where they modulate a range of physiological processes depending on their location, including stress, mood, reward, pain, inflammation, and remyelination. However, clinical use of KOR agonists is limited by adverse effects such as dysphoria, aversion, and sedation. Within the drug-development field KOR agonists have been extensively investigated for the treatment of many centrally mediated nociceptive disorders including pruritis and pain. KOR agonists are potential alternatives to mu-opioid receptor (MOR) agonists for the treatment of pain due to their anti-nociceptive effects, lack of abuse potential, and reduced respiratory depressive effects, however, dysphoric side-effects have limited their widespread clinical use. Other diseases for which KOR agonists hold promising therapeutic potential include pruritis, multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer’s disease, inflammatory diseases, gastrointestinal diseases, cancer, and ischemia. This review highlights recent drug-development efforts targeting KOR, including the development of G-protein–biased ligands, mixed opioid agonists, and peripherally restricted ligands to reduce side-effects. We also highlight the current KOR agonists that are in preclinical development or undergoing clinical trials.

The prevalence of complementary and alternative medicines (CAM) usage among allergic rhinitis patients in Malaysia

PURPOSE

We conducted this study to estimate the prevalence of complementary and alternative medicines (CAM) usage among allergic rhinitis (AR) patients in Malaysia and understand the practice of CAM usage among them. We also included a literature review on the commonly used CAM for AR.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study which included a questionnaire-based study and information of allergic rhinitis from patient's clinic records. Patients with AR who attended the ORL-HNS department in Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia and Hospital Sultanah Aminah, Malaysia were enrolled after consented, on a first-come first-serve basis as convenience sampling from July 2020 until February 2021. A pre-tested self-administered, 16-item questionnaire in Malay language was distributed to the participants. The questionnaire consists of a set of 16 questions with subsets to enquire about the sociodemographic data and pattern of usage of CAM and its effectiveness.

RESULTS

372 patients were enrolled in this study consisting of 217 (58.3%) female and 155 (41.7%) male patients. 231 (62.1%) participants had used CAM for AR in the past 10 years. A higher proportion of females (p = 0.015) and those with higher income (p = 0.004) had used CAM. Among the users, 87.9% found CAM to be effective. No differences were found in terms of age (p = 0.888) and education level (p = 0.057) for CAM usage.

CONCLUSION

CAM is widely used in Malaysia to alleviate AR symptoms, with a large proportion of users think it is effective. Therefore, more researches should be conducted to provide evidence and guidance to integrate CAM into AR management.

Effect of Nigella sativa on general health and immune system in young healthy volunteers; a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blinded clinical trial

Nigella sativa (N. sativa) is traditionally used as an immune enhancer in different communities. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of N. sativa on immunity related parameters in young healthy subjects. This study was a double blind, randomized, placebo controlled clinical trial. Fifty-two healthy subjects (48 male and 4 female) 18-25 years old were enrolled in the study. They were randomly divided into four groups; the first received charcoal capsules and served as controls and the other three received 0.5, 1 g, and 2 g of powdered N. sativa capsules, respectively. Two blood samples were obtained from all participant, before initiation of the trial and at the end of the four weeks intervention. One sample was used for routine health screening by evaluating liver and renal functions as well as complete blood count and differential. The second sample was used to measure certain cytokines including; IL-1, IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, and TNF. A third and fourth samples were obtained from the last cohort of subjects before and after treatment; the third was used for measuring immunoglobulins and CD profile and the fourth for evaluating certain gene expressions (INF-γ, NF-κ-B, TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-13, IL-8, and IL-6). Only 1 g dose of N. sativa produced a significant elevation in total lymphocyte count, CD3+ and CD4+ counts. One gram N. sativa increased the absolute lymphocyte count from 1850±0.24 to 2170±0.26 (p=0.008), CD3+ from 1184.4±75.60 to 1424±114.51 (p=0.009), and CD4+ from 665.6±141.66 to 841±143.36 (p=0.002).  This elevation in T cells was lost by increasing the dose of N. sativa to 2g. The rest of the parameters were not changed significantly in all doses. The results show a promising immunopotentiation effect of N. sativa by elevating helper T cells and the optimum dose for young age group seems to be 1 g.

Neuroimmune and Mu-Opioid Receptor Alterations in the Mesocorticolimbic System in a Sex-Dependent Inflammatory Pain-Induced Alcohol Relapse-Like Rat Model

Evidence concerning the role of alcohol-induced neuroinflammation in alcohol intake and relapse has increased in the last few years. It is also proven that mu-opioid receptors (MORs) mediate the reinforcing properties of alcohol and, interestingly, previous research suggests that neuroinflammation and MORs could be related. Our objective is to study neuroinflammatory states and microglial activation, together with adaptations on MOR expression in the mesocorticolimbic system (MCLS) during the abstinence and relapse phases. To do so, we have used a sex-dependent rat model of complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA)-induced alcohol deprivation effect (ADE). Firstly, our results confirm that only CFA-treated female rats, the only experimental group that showed relapse-like behavior, exhibited specific alterations in the expression of phosphorylated NFκB, iNOS, and COX2 in the PFC and VTA. More interestingly, the analysis of the IBA1 expression revealed a decrease of the microglial activation in PFC during abstinence and an increase of its expression in the relapse phase, together with an augmentation of this activation in the NAc in both phases that only occur in female CFA-treated rats. Additionally, the expression of IL1β also evidenced these dynamic changes through these two phases following similar expression patterns in both areas. Furthermore, the expression of the cytokine IL10 showed a different profile than that of IL1β, indicating anti-inflammatory processes occurring only during abstinence in the PFC of CFA-female rats but neither during the reintroduction phase in PFC nor in the NAc. These data indicate a downregulation of microglial activation and pro-inflammatory processes during abstinence in the PFC, whereas an upregulation can be observed in the NAc during abstinence that is maintained during the reintroduction phase only in CFA-female rats. Secondly, our data reveal a correlation between the alterations observed in IL1β, IBA1 levels, and MOR levels in the PFC and NAc of CFA-treated female rats. Although premature, our data suggest that neuroinflammatory processes, together with neural adaptations involving MOR, might play an important role in alcohol relapse in female rats, so further investigations are warranted.

Scientific rationale of Indian AYUSH Ministry advisory for COVID-19 prevention, prophylaxis, and immunomodulation

The current outbreak of COVID-19 is caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus that has affected > 210 countries. Various steps are taken by different countries to tackle the current war-like health situation. In India, the Ministry of AYUSH released a self-care advisory for immunomodulation measures during the COVID-19 and this review article discusses the detailed scientific rationale associated with this advisory. Authors have spotted and presented in-depth insight of advisory in terms of immunomodulatory, antiviral, antibacterial, co-morbidity associated actions, and their probable mechanism of action. Immunomodulatory actions of advised herbs with no significant adverse drug reaction/toxicity strongly support the extension of advisory for COVID-19 prevention, prophylaxis, mitigations, and rehabilitation capacities. This advisory also emphasized Dhyana (meditation) and Yogasanas as a holistic approach in enhancing immunity, mental health, and quality of life. The present review may open-up new meadows for research and can provide better conceptual leads for future researches in immunomodulation, antiviral-development, psychoneuroimmunology, especially for COVID-19.

The effects of Nigella sativa on respiratory, allergic and immunologic disorders, evidence from experimental and clinical studies, a comprehensive and updated review

Nigella sativa (N. sativa) seed had been used traditionally due to several pharmacological effects. The updated experimental and clinical effects of N. sativa and its constituents on respiratory, allergic and immunologic disorders are provided in this comprehensive review article. Various databases including PubMed, Science Direct and Scopus were used. The preventive effects of N. sativa on pulmonary diseases were mainly due to its constituents such as thymoquinone, thymol, carvacrol and alpha-hederin. Extracts and constituents of N. sativa showed the relaxant effect, with possible mechanisms indicating its bronchodilatory effect in obstructive pulmonary diseases. In experimental animal models of different respiratory diseases, the preventive effect of various extracts and constituents of N. sativa was demonstrated by mechanisms such as antioxidant, immunomodulatory and antiinflammatory effects. Bronchodilatory and preventive effects of the plant and its components on asthma, COPD and lung disorders due to exposure to noxious agents as well as on allergic and immunologic disorders were also shown in the clinical studies. Various extracts and constituents of N. sativa showed pharmacological and therapeutic effects on respiratory, allergic and immunologic disorders indicating possible remedy effect of that the plant and its effective substances in treating respiratory, allergic and immunologic diseases.

Pomegranate-derived anthocyanin regulates MORs-cAMP/CREB-BDNF pathways in opioid-dependent models and improves cognitive impairments

BACKGROUND

Pomegranate (Punica granatum) is one of the oldest known edible fruit. Recently, there has been an increased interest in this fruit as a functional food for health benefits due to its use in disease prevention and promotion of overall health wellness.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to investigate the effects of pomegranate extract for the development of non-opioid substitution therapy for in-vitro and in-vivo studies.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Anthocyanin contents consisting of cyanidin 3-glucoside, diglucoside, and pelargonidin 3-glucoside, diglucoside were detected and quantified in pomegranate extract using high-performance liquid chromatography. The optimum dosage of the extract was determined based on the regulation of MORs and cAMP proteins in U-87 cells. Co-treatment of the extract with morphine was performed to evaluate its potency in reducing the concentration levels of MORs and cAMP. For animal studies, rats were divided into two major groups representing both acute and chronic morphine-induced treatments and the Morris water maze (MWM) study was employed after treatment for each rat. The rats were sacrificed after the treatments and serum samples were collected to evaluate the levels of CREB and BDNF.

RESULTS

The results indicated that each of the anthocyanin content tested in the study was present in the pomegranate extract. Additionally, in-vitro studies using pomegranate extract treatment showed that the extract was effective in decreasing the MORs and cAMP protein levels in U-87 cells at a concentration of 0.125 mg/mL. The memory impairment based on the MWM study in rats was also subsequently improved after treatment with pomegranate extract as compared to treatment with morphine. The blood serum derived from the rats treated with pomegranate extract also showed a significant decrease in CREB level and an increase in BDNF as compared to rats treated with morphine.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, this study substantiates the potency of pomegranate extract as a non-opioid substitution therapy for in-vitro and in-vivo studies.

Protective Effect of Glycomacropeptide on Food Allergy with Gastrointestinal Manifestations in a Rat Model through Down-Regulation of Type 2 Immune Response

Glycomacropeptide (GMP) is a bioactive peptide derived from milk κ-casein with immune-modulatory and anti-inflammatory properties. Food allergy (FA) is an adverse immune reaction with a broad spectrum of manifestations. Allergen intake induces persistent intestinal inflammation and tissue damage. In this study, the anti-allergic activity of GMP was evaluated using a rat ovalbumin (OVA)-induced FA model with gastrointestinal manifestation. Rats were orally GMP treated from 3 days prior and during FA development. The severity of food anaphylaxis and diarrheal episodes, antibody production and histamine level were measured. Histopathological changes, inflammation and predominant cytokine profile at intestine were analyzed. Oral GMP intake decreased clinical signs and diarrhea severity induced by allergen, with a significant reduction in intestinal edema and expression level of IL-1β and TNF-α. Prophylaxis with GMP also diminished serum anti-OVA IgE and IgG1, and histamine levels. GMP treatment markedly decreased eosinophil infiltration, mast cell and goblet cell hyperplasia, total IgE expression in intestine, and prevented histological changes in villi, crypts and internal muscularis layer. The treatment effectively suppressed IL-5, IL-13 and GATA3 expression and skewed the intestinal cytokine profile toward type 1 and regulatory. These results suggest that GMP may protect against FA through down-regulating the type 2 inflammatory response.

Traditional Tibetan medicine Anzhijinhua San attenuates ovalbumin-induced diarrhea by regulating the serotonin signaling system in mice

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Tibetan medicine has been practiced for 3800 years. Anzhijinhua San (AZJHS), which is a traditional Tibetan medicine, has been effective in the treatment of indigestion, anorexia and cold diarrhea. However, the effects of AZJHS on allergic diarrhea have not been reported.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The aim of the present study was to elucidate the effect of AZJHS on experimental ovalbumin-induced diarrhea and elucidate its possible mechanism.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Female BALB/c mice were sensitized by intraperitoneal injection with 50 μg ovalbumin (OVA) and 1 mg alum in saline twice during a 2-week period. From day 28, mice were orally challenged with OVA (50 mg) every other day for a total of ten times. AZJHS (46.8 and 468.0 mg/kg) was orally administered every other day from day 0-46. Food allergy symptoms were evaluated. OVA- specific IgE, 5-HT and its metabolites in serum were determined. Immunohistochemical and histopathology were performed in gastrointestinal tract tissues. 5-HT-related gene expression was assayed in the colon.

RESULTS

Severe symptoms of allergic diarrhea were observed in the model group (diarrhea, anaphylactic response, and rectal temperature). AZJHS (46.8 and 468.0 mg/kg) significantly reduced mouse diarrhea and significantly prevented the increases in OVA-specific IgE levels (P < 0.05), which challenge with OVA. AZJHS (46.8 and 468.0 mg/kg) significantly prevented the increases in 5-HT-positive cells. The nuclei of EC cells in the AZJHS (46.8 and 468.0 mg/kg) group increased in size and the secretory granules were fewer in number compared with those in the model group. AZJHS (46.8 and 468.0 mg/kg) significantly increased the relative fold changes of 5-HTP and 5-HT compared with the model group. The mRNA expression of the serotonin transporter (Sert) and serotonin receptor 3A (Htr3a) was significantly decreased after the 10th challenge with OVA, and AZJHS (46.8 and 468.0 mg/kg) significantly increased these levels.

CONCLUSIONS

We demonstrated that the administration of AZJHS attenuated OVA-induced diarrhea by regulating the serotonin pathway. These results indicated that AZJHS may be a potential candidate as an anti-allergic diarrhea agent.

Fisetin and telmisartan each alone or in low-dose combination alleviate OVA-induced food allergy in mice

BACKGROUND

Food allergy (FA) is a worldwide health problem, affecting nearly 10% of all populations, with no prophylactic options or regulatory treatment available until now. Fisetin, a biologically active flavonoid, and telmisartan, the highly selective competitive AT1 receptor antagonist, recently exhibited potent anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory activities. In the present study, we have evaluated the possible anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory activities of fisetin and telmisartan each alone or in low-dose combination in a mouse model of FA.

METHODS

For induction of FA, eight-week-old BALB/c mice, sensitized by two ip injection of 50 μg ovalbumin (OVA) and 1 mg alum at day 0 and 7. Then, each mouse challenged with 10 mg OVA at days 14, 16, 18, and 21. On the 28^th day, the fifth challenge carried out by oral administration of 50 mg OVA. Either fisetin (1 or 3 mg/kg/d), telmisartan (1 or 3 mg/kg/d) or a combination of fisetin 1 mg/kg/d and telmisartan 1 mg/kg/d received orally from the 13^th day till 28^th day. In challenge days, the treatments received one-hour before the challenge.

RESULTS

Our data showed that fisetin and telmisartan each alone or in low-dose combination attenuated the anaphylactic manifestation, decreased blood eosinophilic count, serum OVA-specific IgE, and IL-4 levels, the intestinal total and degranulated mast cells count, and CD4⁺ immunohistochemical expression. Furthermore, they enhanced the serum IFN-γ level and abrogated the intestinal histopathological changes induced by OVA in mice.

CONCLUSION

Either fisetin, telmisartan or their low-dose combination could be promising in the management of FA.

The Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Nigella sativa Balm Sticks

Nigella sativa oil has been known to have potent anti-inflammatory activity. This research aimed to determine the anti-inflammation activity of Nigella sativa oil in a simple balm stick by topical application. The activity was checked using two methods: carrageenan-induced paw oedema and granuloma pouch on rats. The results showed that balm sticks which contained 10% Nigella sativa could overcome both acute and sub-acute inflammation showing by high oedema inhibition (60.64%), low leucocytes count (43.55% lower than control) as well as a notable TNF-α concentration (50% lower than control) on the inflamed area. In conclusion, topical application of a Nigella sativa balm stick was effective for both acute and sub-acute forms of inflammation.

Nigella sativa as an anti-inflammatory agent in asthma

Objective

Nigella sativa (N. sativa) has several pharmacological actions which include antioxidant, antidiabetic, anticancer, antitussive, immunomodulator, analgesic, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, spasmolytic, and bronchodilator. The purpose of this study is to measure the effectivity of N. sativa ethanol extract as anti-inflammation on peritoneal Wistar rat mast cells. The laboratory experiment was used to investigate the effectivity of N. sativa as an anti-inflammatory on mast cells. Six groups of mast cells were stimulated by C 48/80 to release histamine. Group 1 were without N. sativa, while group 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6 were given N. sativa with concentrations of 0.1 mg/ml, 0.2 mg/ml, 0.3 mg/ml, 0.4 mg/ml and 0.5 mg/ml, respectively. Histamine concentration was measured by high-performance liquid chromatography-fluorometry.

Result

The study showed that N. sativa ethanol extract effectively inhibit histamine release from peritoneal Wistar rat mast cells proportionally to its concentration. N. sativa is effective as an anti-inflammation on mast cells by inhibition of histamine release and has no toxic effect on mast cell. N. sativa could be considered as a potential therapy for asthma therapy and prevention.

Skin inflammation exacerbates food allergy symptoms in epicutaneously sensitized mice

BACKGROUND

Cutaneous exposure to food antigen through impaired skin barrier has been shown to induce epicutaneous sensitization, thereby causing IgE-mediated food allergies.

OBJECTIVE

We examined whether skin barrier impairment following epicutaneous sensitization exacerbates food allergies.

METHODS

BALB/c mice were epicutaneously sensitized by repeated application of ovalbumin (OVA) to MC903-pretreated ear skin for 48 hours weekly and then intragastrically challenged with OVA. After the first oral challenge, the skin barrier was disrupted with topical application of MC903 or by tape-stripping. Mice were monitored for changes in body temperature and the occurrence of diarrhea after undergoing the second oral challenge. Serum levels of mouse mast cell protease-1 (mmcp1) and OVA-specific IgE, IgG1, IgG2a antibodies and OVA-specific IgA levels in intestinal lavage fluid were measured by ELISA. Tissue accumulation of eosinophils was determined histologically.

RESULTS

Epicutaneously sensitized mice developed anaphylaxis after intragastric challenge, as evidenced by diarrhea, decreased body temperature, and increased serum mmcp1 levels. Skin barrier disruption by MC903 treatment or tape-stripping exacerbated allergic reactions induced by oral challenge. MC903 treatment increased serum baseline and postchallenge mmcp1 levels. Topical pretreatment with dexamethasone alleviated allergic reactions that were exacerbated by MC903 treatment.

CONCLUSION

Even after eliminating exposure to the antigen, inflammation from skin barrier disruption can exacerbate the severity of food allergy symptoms. Serum baseline mmcp1 levels might be an effective marker for predicting the severity of antigen-induced allergic symptoms.

Effect of Nigella sativa supplementation on obesity indices: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVE(S)

No meta-analysis is available on the effect of Nigella sativa (NS) on obesity indices. This systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted to systematically review the available Randomized Clinical Trials (RCTs) that examined the effects of NS on Body Weight (BW), Body Mass index (BMI), and Waist Circumference (WC) in adults.

METHODS

Relevant articles published up to January 2018 were searched through PubMed/Medline, SCOPUS, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar databases, using relevant keywords. All RCTs that examined the effect of NS supplementation on BW, BMI, or WC were included.

RESULTS

Overall, thirteen RCTs, including 875 subjects (64% males) were included in this study. Combining effect sizes from ten studies, NS supplementation significantly reduced BW (Weighted Mean Differences (WMD): -1.76 kg, 95% CI: -3.34 to -0.17, I² = 87.4%), as compared to placebo. Subgroup analysis by the intervention type (I² = 0.0%), participants' gender (I² = 0.0%), and age (I² = 5.5%) removed between-study heterogeneity. A significant reduction was seen in BMI (WMD: -0.85 kg/m², 95% CI: -1.23, -0.46, I² = 70.6%) after NS supplementation than placebo among eleven trials. Subgroup analysis based on study duration (I² = 0.0%), participants' gender (females: I² = 0.0% & both genders: I² = 20.9%), an age (I² = 35.9%) disappeared the heterogeneity. However, no significant reduction was found in WC comparing NS supplementation to placebo (WMD: -4.04 cm, 95% CI: 11.37, 3.27, I² = 97.8%) in five studies.

CONCLUSIONS

We find a significant effect of NS supplementation on BW and BMI in adults. However, the effect of NS supplementation on WC was not significant in this meta-analysis.

Anti-cancer properties and mechanisms of action of thymoquinone, the major active ingredient of Nigella sativa

Over the past two decades, studies have documented the wide-range anti-cancer effects of Nigella sativa, known as black seed or black cumin. Thymoquinone (TQ), its major active ingredient, has also been extensively studied and reported to possess potent anti-cancer properties. Herein, we provide a comprehensive review of the findings related to the anti-cancer activity of TQ. The review focuses on analyzing experimental studies performed using different in vitro and in vivo models to identify the anti-proliferative, pro-apoptotic, anti-oxidant, cytotoxic, anti-metastatic, and NK-dependent cytotoxic effects exerted by TQ. In addition, we pinpoint the molecular mechanisms underlying these effects and the signal transduction pathways implicated by TQ. Our analysis show that p53, NF-κB, PPARγ, STAT3, MAPK, and PI3K/AKT signaling pathways are among the most significant pathways through which TQ mediates its anti-cancer activity. Experimental findings and recent advances in the field highlight TQ as an effective therapeutic agent for the suppression of tumor development, growth and metastasis for a wide range of tumors.

Phytochemistry, pharmacology, and therapeutic uses of black seed (Nigella sativa)

Black seed (Nigella sativa) is an annual flowering plant from Ranunculaceae family, native to southwest Asia. This plant has many food and medicinal uses. The use of its seeds and oil is common for treatment of many diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, asthma, inflammatory diseases, diabetes and digestive diseases. The purpose of this study was to provide a comprehensive review on the scientific reports that have been published about N. sativa. The facts and statistics presented in this review article were gathered from the journals accessible in creditable databases such as Science Direct, Medline, PubMed, Scopus, EBSCO, EMBASE, SID and IranMedex. The keywords searched in Persian and English books on medicinal plants and traditional medicine, as well as the above reputable databases were "Black seed", "Nigella sativa", "therapeutic effect", and "medicinal plant". The results showed that N. sativa has many biological effects such as anti-inflammatory, anti-hyperlipidemic, anti-microbial, anti-cancer, anti-oxidant, anti-diabetic, anti-hypertensive, and wound healing activities. It also has effects on reproductive, digestive, immune and central nervous systems, such as anticonvulsant and analgesic activities. In summary, it can be used as a valuable plant for production of new drugs for treatment of many diseases.

Recent advances on the anti-cancer properties of Nigella sativa, a widely used food additive

The use of naturally-occurring agents to regulate tumorigenesis is on the rise. Several herbal extracts, pure plant-derived active constituents, and food additives have been reported to possess potent anti-cancer properties and cancer-ameliorating effects. The wide-range anti-cancer effects of Nigella sativa, also known as black seed or black cumin, have been extensively studied using different in vitro and in vivo models. Here, we provide a comprehensive, analytical review of the reported anti-cancer properties of N. sativa seed extracts. This review focuses on analyzing experimental findings related to the ability of N. sativa to exert anti-proliferative, pro-apoptotic, anti-oxidant, cytotoxic, anti-mutagenic, anti-metastatic, and NK cytotoxic activity enhancing effects against various primary cancer cells and cancer cell lines. Moreover, we underline the molecular mechanisms of action and the signal transduction pathways implicated in the suppression of tumorigenesis by N. sativa. The major signaling pathway utilized by N. sativa to manifest its anti-cancer activity is the iNOS signaling pathway. This review underscores the recent developments that highlight an effective therapeutic potential of N. sativa to suppress tumor development, reduce tumor incidence, and ameliorate carcinogenesis. In sum, experimental findings reported in the last two decades strongly suggest that N. sativa fractions could serve, alone or in combination with known chemotherapeutic drugs, as effective agents to control tumor initiation, growth, and metastasis, and hence, treatment of a wide range of cancers.

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N. sativa exerts cytotoxic, pro-apoptotic, anti-proliferative, anti-oxidant, anti-mutagenic, and anti-metastatic effects.

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Augmentation of NK cytotoxic activity is a one molecular mechanism by which N. sativa manifests its anti-cancer activity.

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The anti-cancer effects of N. sativa are primarily mediated via iNOS, p53, and caspase signaling pathways.

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N. sativa extracts can potentially be employed in the development of effective anti-cancer therapeutic agents.

Thymoquinone inhibits inflammation, neoangiogenesis and vascular remodeling in asthma mice

Asthma is a chronic obstructive disease which is characterized by recurring airway inflammation, reversible airway obstruction, airway hyper responsiveness and vascular remodeling. Thymoquinone (TQ), an active ingredient isolated from Nigella sativa, was reported to exhibit anti-inflammation and anti-proliferation of in various cancer cells as well as epithelial cells. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of TQ on the inflammation, neoangiogenesis and vascular remodeling induced by Ovalbumin (OVA) in asthma mice in vivo and the anti-angiogenesis effects of TQ in VEGF-induced human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) in vitro. Our results revealed that TQ inhibited the production of inflammatory factors interleukin-4/-5 (IL-4/-5) by enzyme-linked immunesorbent assay (ELISA). Immunohistochemistry analysis showed that the increase of platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule-1, which is also known as CD31 and α-smooth muscle actinalpha (α-SMA) expression in asthma mice challenged by OVA was suppressed by TQ. Moreover, TQ suppressed the activation of VEGFR2-PI3K-Akt pathway and up-regulated the expression of Slit glycoprotein-2 (Slit-2) both in vivo and in vitro with the inhibition of tube information in HUVEC cells. Meanwhile immunofluorescence analysis showed that Slit-2 and Roundabout-4 (Robo-4) were co-expressing after TQ treatment in OVA-challenged asthma mice. Our study demonstrates that TQ attenuated the inflammatory reaction by antagonizing IL-4/-5 while the anti-neoangiogenesis effect of TQ is mediated by inhibition of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression through VEGFR2/PI3K/Akt signaling pathway, which supports a potential role for TQ in ameliorating asthma.

Efficacy of local application of an Unani formulation in acne vulgaris

Background and Objectives:

Buthūr-i-Labaniyya (Acne vulgaris) is affecting up to 80% of adolescents and many adults at different stages of life. It is one of the commonest skin disorders which appears on cheeks and nose as white eruptions that seems like solidified milk drops. These eruptions are treated by drugs having properties of tajfīf wa taḥlīl (desiccant and resolving), as mentioned by Ibne Sina. Daood Antaki in his book Tazkira Oolulalbab recommends the local application of a paste of Shonīz (nigella sativa), Naushādar (ammonium chloride) and Būra Armani mixed with Sirka (vinegar) for effective treatment of Acne vulgaris.

Methods:

The study was observational self comparison before and after treatment, conducted in the OPD of the hospital which is part of the National Institute of Unani Medicine, Bangalore. The duration of study was one year. 40 Female patients with combination of comedones, papules, pustules and nodules were recruited for this purpose. The test drug, Shonīz, Būra Armani, Naushadar powder, mixed with sirka were applied locally for one month with taqlīl-i-ghidhā tadābīr (low calorie index diet). All subjects were assessed on the basis of changes in subjective and objective parameters.

Results:

The response of test drugs was statistically highly significant (P < 0.01) by using ANOVA repeated measure test, there was also relief in subjective parameters. Subjects reported a reduction of 82.6%, 80.9%, 66.6% in tenderness, itching and irritation respectively.

Interpretation and Conclusion:

The present study reveals that the test drug formulation is safe and effective in treating Acne vulgaris if used along with low calorie index diet. No side effects of drugs were reported, therefore the trial formulation can be recommended to manage Acne vulgaris of mild to severe degree as a therapy.

Nigella sativa (black seed) effects on plasma lipid concentrations in humans: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized placebo-controlled trials

The effects of Nigella sativa (NS) on plasma lipid concentrations are controversial. A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) was conducted to obtain a conclusive result in humans. PubMed-Medline, SCOPUS, Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases were searched (up to August 2015) to identify RCTs investigating the impact of NS on total cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol (LDL-C), HDL-cholesterol (HDL-C), and triglycerides concentrations. A random-effects model and the generic inverse variance weighting method were used for quantitative data synthesis. Meta-regression, sensitivity analysis, and publication bias assessments were performed using standard methods. A total of 17 RCTs examining the effects of NS on plasma lipid concentrations were included. Meta-analysis suggested a significant association between NS supplementation and a reduction in total cholesterol (weighed-mean-difference [WMD]: -15.65mg/dL, 95% CI: -24.67, -6.63, p=0.001), LDL-C (WMD: -14.10mg/dL, 95% CI: -19.32, -8.88, p<0.001), and triglyceride levels (WMD: -20.64mg/dL, 95% CI: -30.29, -11.00, p<0.001). No significant effect on HDL-C concentrations (WMD: 0.28mg/dL, 95% CI: -1.96, 2.53, p=0.804) was found. A greater effect of NS seed oil versus seed powder was observed on serum total cholesterol and LDL-C levels, and an increase in HDL-C levels was found only after NS seed powder supplementation. NS has a significant impact on plasma lipid concentrations, leading to lower total cholesterol, LDL-C, and TG levels while increased HDL-C is associated with NS powder only. Further RCTs are needed to explore the NS benefits on cardiovascular outcomes.

Immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory action of Nigella sativa and thymoquinone: A comprehensive review

Many herbal products are now used as remedies to treat various infectious and non-infectious conditions. Even though the use of herbs and natural products is much more evident in the Eastern world, their use in Western cultures is continuously increasing. Although the immunomodulatory effects of some herbs have been extensively studied, research related to possible immunomodulatory effects of many herbs and various spices is relatively scarce. Here, we provide a comprehensive review of the immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties of Nigella sativa, also known as black seed or black cumin, and its major active ingredient, thymoquinone (TQ). This review article focuses on analyzing in vitro and in vivo experimental findings that were reported with regard to the ability of N. sativa and TQ to modulate inflammation, cellular and humoral adaptive immune responses, and Th1/Th2 paradigm. The reported capability of N. sativa to augment the cytotoxic activity of natural killer (NK) cells against cancer cells is also emphasized. The molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying such immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory effects of N. sativa and TQ are highlighted. Moreover, the signal transduction pathways implicated in the immunoregulatory functions of N. sativa and TQ are underscored. Experimental evidence suggests that N. sativa extracts and TQ can potentially be employed in the development of effective therapeutic agents towards the regulation of immune reactions implicated in various infectious and non-infectious conditions including different types of allergy, autoimmunity, and cancer.

Development and characterization of an effective food allergy model in Brown Norway rats

BACKGROUND

Food allergy (FA) is an adverse health effect produced by the exposure to a given food. Currently, there is no optimal animal model of FA for the screening of immunotherapies or for testing the allergenicity of new foods.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the present study was to develop an effective and rapid model of FA in Brown Norway rats. In order to establish biomarkers of FA in rat, we compared the immune response and the anaphylactic shock obtained in this model with those achieved with only intraperitoneal immunization.

METHODS

Rats received an intraperitoneal injection of ovalbumin (OVA) with alum and toxin from Bordetella pertussis, and 14 days later, OVA by oral route daily for three weeks (FA group). A group of rats receiving only the i.p. injection (IP group) were also tested. Serum anti-OVA IgE, IgG1, IgG2a, IgG2b and IgA antibodies were quantified throughout the study. After an oral challenge, body temperature, intestinal permeability, motor activity, and mast cell protease II (RMCP-II) levels were determined. At the end of the study, anti-OVA intestinal IgA, spleen cytokine production, lymphocyte composition of Peyer's patches and mesenteric lymph nodes, and gene expression in the small intestine were quantified.

RESULTS

Serum OVA-specific IgG1, IgG2a and IgG2b concentrations rose with the i.p. immunization but were highly augmented after the oral OVA administration. Anti-OVA IgE increased twofold during the first week of oral OVA gavage. The anaphylaxis in both IP and FA groups decreased body temperature and motor activity, whereas intestinal permeability increased. Interestingly, the FA group showed a much higher RMCP II serum protein and intestinal mRNA expression.

CONCLUSIONS

These results show both an effective and relatively rapid model of FA assessed by means of specific antibody titres and the high production of RMCP-II and its intestinal gene expression.

A review on therapeutic potential of Nigella sativa: A miracle herb

Nigella sativa (N. sativa) (Family Ranunculaceae) is a widely used medicinal plant throughout the world. It is very popular in various traditional systems of medicine like Unani and Tibb, Ayurveda and Siddha. Seeds and oil have a long history of folklore usage in various systems of medicines and food. The seeds of N. sativa have been widely used in the treatment of different diseases and ailments. In Islamic literature, it is considered as one of the greatest forms of healing medicine. It has been recommended for using on regular basis in Tibb-e-Nabwi (Prophetic Medicine). It has been widely used as antihypertensive, liver tonics, diuretics, digestive, anti-diarrheal, appetite stimulant, analgesics, anti-bacterial and in skin disorders. Extensive studies on N. sativa have been carried out by various researchers and a wide spectrum of its pharmacological actions have been explored which may include antidiabetic, anticancer, immunomodulator, analgesic, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, spasmolytic, bronchodilator, hepato-protective, renal protective, gastro-protective, antioxidant properties, etc. Due to its miraculous power of healing, N. sativa has got the place among the top ranked evidence based herbal medicines. This is also revealed that most of the therapeutic properties of this plant are due to the presence of thymoquinone which is major bioactive component of the essential oil. The present review is an effort to provide a detailed survey of the literature on scientific researches of pharmacognostical characteristics, chemical composition and pharmacological activities of the seeds of this plant.

Physiology, signaling, and pharmacology of opioid receptors and their ligands in the gastrointestinal tract: current concepts and future perspectives

Opioid receptors are widely distributed in the human body and are crucially involved in numerous physiological processes. These include pain signaling in the central and the peripheral nervous system, reproduction, growth, respiration, and immunological response. Opioid receptors additionally play a major role in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract in physiological and pathophysiological conditions. This review discusses the physiology and pharmacology of the opioid system in the GI tract. We additionally focus on GI disorders and malfunctions, where pathophysiology involves the endogenous opioid system, such as opioid-induced bowel dysfunction, opioid-induced constipation or abdominal pain. Based on recent reports in the field of pharmacology and medicinal chemistry, we will also discuss the opportunities of targeting the opioid system, suggesting future treatment options for functional disorders and inflammatory states of the GI tract.

Endogenous opiates and behavior: 2012

This paper is the thirty-fifth consecutive installment of the annual review of research concerning the endogenous opioid system. It summarizes papers published during 2012 that studied the behavioral effects of molecular, pharmacological and genetic manipulation of opioid peptides, opioid receptors, opioid agonists and opioid antagonists. The particular topics that continue to be covered include the molecular-biochemical effects and neurochemical localization studies of endogenous opioids and their receptors related to behavior (Section 2), and the roles of these opioid peptides and receptors in pain and analgesia (Section 3); stress and social status (Section 4); tolerance and dependence (Section 5); learning and memory (Section 6); eating and drinking (Section 7); alcohol and drugs of abuse (Section 8); sexual activity and hormones, pregnancy, development and endocrinology (Section 9); mental illness and mood (Section 10); seizures and neurologic disorders (Section 11); electrical-related activity and neurophysiology (Section 12); general activity and locomotion (Section 13); gastrointestinal, renal and hepatic functions (Section 14); cardiovascular responses (Section 15); respiration and thermoregulation (Section 16); and immunological responses (Section 17).