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Hyvönen S, Poussa T, Lohi J, Tuuminen T. High prevalence of neurological sequelae and multiple chemical sensitivity among occupants of a Finnish police station damaged by dampness microbiota. ARCHIVES OF ENVIRONMENTAL & OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH 2020; 76:145-151. [PMID: 32544007 DOI: 10.1080/19338244.2020.1781034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Objectives: The aim of the study was to estimate the risks of different symptoms after the exposure to indoor air dampness microbiota (DM).Methods: This cross-sectional retrospective cohort-based study compared morbidity risks in DM exposed (n = 116) vs. unexposed cohort (n = 45). Gender-adjusted log-binomial regression models were used to calculate risk ratios (RR). The analysis of indoor dust toxicity was based on the inhibition of the motion of boar spermatozoa in vitro. Conventional microbiological work-up was performed in an accredited laboratory.Results: Compared to the unexposed cohort, the study cohort had statistically significant (p < 0.05) risks to develop symptoms of the central nervous system RR = 2.85 (95% CI 1.19-6.85), fatigue RR = 2.82 (1.55-5.11), Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS) RR = 2.81 (1.06-7.46), cardiac arrhythmia RR = 9.58 (1.33-68.81) and respiratory symptoms RR = 2.66 (1.58-4.48).Conclusions: The results of this study corroborate our earlier findings that toxic indoor air may cause a plethora of neurological symptoms. Higher than in the control group the prevalence of MCS associated with the exposure to DM. Bad indoor air is therefore not only a risk for respiratory problems and asthma but should be viewed broader as a systemic biotoxicosis. Therefore, psychologization of this disorder without mentioning the underlying insulting mechanisms should be discouraged.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jouni Lohi
- Department of Pathology, Lapland Central Hospital, Rovaniemi, Finland
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Moist and Mold Exposure is Associated With High Prevalence of Neurological Symptoms and MCS in a Finnish Hospital Workers Cohort. Saf Health Work 2020; 11:173-177. [PMID: 32596012 PMCID: PMC7303478 DOI: 10.1016/j.shaw.2020.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2019] [Revised: 01/17/2020] [Accepted: 01/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Indoor air dampness microbiota (DM) is a big health hazard. Sufficient evidence exists that exposure to DM causes new asthma or exacerbation, dyspnea, infections of upper airways and allergic alveolitis. Less convincing evidence has yet been published for extrapulmonary manifestations of dampness and mold hypersensitivity syndrome ). Methods We investigated the prevalence of extrapulmonary in addition to respiratory symptoms with a questionnaire in a cohort of nurses and midwives (n = 90) exposed to DM in a Helsinki Obstetric Hospital. The corresponding prevalence was compared with an unexposed cohort (n = 45). Particular interest was put on neurological symptoms and multiple chemical sensitivity. Results The results show that respiratory symptoms were more common among participants of the study vs. control cohort, that is, 80 vs 29%, respectively (risk ratio [RR]: 2.56, p < 0.001). Symptoms of the central or peripheral nervous system were also more common in study vs. control cohort: 81 vs 11% (RR: 6.63, p < 0.001). Fatigue was reported in 77 vs. 24%, (RR: 3.05, p < 0.001) and multiple chemical sensitivity in 40 vs. 9%, (RR: 3.44, p = 0.01), the so-called “brain fog”, was prevalent in 62 vs 11% (RR: 4.94, p < 0.001), arrhythmias were reported in 57 vs. 2.4% (RR: 19.75, p < 0.001) and musculoskeletal pain in 51 vs 22% (RR: 2.02, p = 0.02) among participants of the study vs. control cohort, respectively. Conclusion The results indicate that the exposure to DM is associated with a plethora of extrapulmonary symptoms. Presented data corroborate our recent reports on the health effects of moist and mold exposure in a workplace.
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Dietary factors and endocrine consequences of multiple chemical sensitivity. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019; 67:353-354. [PMID: 31874795 DOI: 10.1016/j.endinu.2019.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2019] [Revised: 09/09/2019] [Accepted: 09/10/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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Monro JA, Puri BK. A Molecular Neurobiological Approach to Understanding the Aetiology of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (Myalgic Encephalomyelitis or Systemic Exertion Intolerance Disease) with Treatment Implications. Mol Neurobiol 2018; 55:7377-7388. [PMID: 29411266 PMCID: PMC6096969 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-018-0928-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2017] [Accepted: 01/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Currently, a psychologically based model is widely held to be the basis for the aetiology and treatment of chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS)/myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME)/systemic exertion intolerance disease (SEID). However, an alternative, molecular neurobiological approach is possible and in this paper evidence demonstrating a biological aetiology for CFS/ME/SEID is adduced from a study of the history of the disease and a consideration of the role of the following in this disease: nitric oxide and peroxynitrite, oxidative and nitrosative stress, the blood–brain barrier and intestinal permeability, cytokines and infections, metabolism, structural and chemical brain changes, neurophysiological changes and calcium ion mobilisation. Evidence is also detailed for biologically based potential therapeutic options, including: nutritional supplementation, for example in order to downregulate the nitric oxide-peroxynitrite cycle to prevent its perpetuation; antiviral therapy; and monoclonal antibody treatment. It is concluded that there is strong evidence of a molecular neurobiological aetiology, and so it is suggested that biologically based therapeutic interventions should constitute a focus for future research into CFS/ME/SEID.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean A Monro
- Breakspear Medical Group, Hemel Hempstead, England, UK
| | - Basant K Puri
- Department of Medicine, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK.
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Cheng HM, Chen FY, Li CC, Lo HY, Liao YF, Ho TY, Hsiang CY. Oral Administration of Vanillin Improves Imiquimod-Induced Psoriatic Skin Inflammation in Mice. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2017; 65:10233-10242. [PMID: 29073354 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.7b04259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Vanillin is one of the most widely used flavoring products worldwide. Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder. The interleukin-23 (IL-23)/interleukin-17 (IL-17) axis plays a critical role in psoriasis. Here, we analyzed the effect of vanillin on imiquimod (IMQ)-induced psoriatic skin inflammation in mice. Mice were treated topically with IMQ on the back skin and orally with various amounts of vanillin for 7 consecutive days. Vanillin significantly improved IMQ-induced histopathological changes of skin in a dose-dependent manner. The thickness and number of cell layers of epidermis were reduced by 29 ± 14.4 and 27.8 ± 11%, respectively, in mice given 100 mg/kg of vanillin. A microarray showed that a total of 9042 IMQ-upregulated genes were downregulated by vanillin, and the biological pathways involved in the immune system and metabolism were significantly altered by vanillin. The upregulated expressions of IL-23, IL-17A, and IL-17F genes were suppressed by vanillin, with fold changes of -3.07 ± 0.08, -2.06 ± 0.21, and -1.62 ± 0.21, respectively. Moreover, vanillin significantly decreased both the amounts of IL-17A and IL-23 and the infiltration of immune cells in the skin tissues of IMQ-treated mice. In conclusion, our findings suggested that vanillin was an effective bioactive compound against psoriatic skin inflammation. Moreover, the downregulation of IL-23 and IL-17 expression suggested that vanillin was a novel regulator of the IL-23/IL-17 axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui-Man Cheng
- Department of Integration of Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, China Medical University Hospital , Taichung 40447, Taiwan
| | | | | | | | | | - Tin-Yun Ho
- Department of Health and Nutrition Biotechnology, Asia University , Taichung 41354, Taiwan
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Khanam S, Fatima A, Jyoti RS, Ali F, Naz F, Shakya B, Siddique YH. Protective effect of capsaicin against methyl methanesulphonate induced toxicity in the third instar larvae of transgenic Drosophila melanogaster (hsp70-lacZ)Bg9. Chin J Nat Med 2017; 15:271-280. [DOI: 10.1016/s1875-5364(17)30044-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2016] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Rea WJ. History of chemical sensitivity and diagnosis. REVIEWS ON ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH 2016; 31:353-361. [PMID: 27383867 DOI: 10.1515/reveh-2015-0021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2015] [Accepted: 04/16/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Histories of mold, pollen, dust, food, chemicals, and electromagnetic field (EMF) sensitivities are the major categories of triggers for chemical sensitivity. They are tied together by the coherence phenomenon, where each has its own frequencies and identifiable EMF; therefore, they can be correlated. The diagnosis of chemical sensitivity can be done accurately in a less-polluted, controlled environment, as was done in these studies. The principles of diagnosis and treatment depend on total environmental and total body pollutant loads, masking or adaptation, bipolarity of response, and biochemical individuality, among others. These principles make less-polluted, controlled conditions necessary. The clinician has to use less-polluted water and organic food with individual challenges for testing, including dust, mold, pesticide, natural gas, formaldehyde, particulates, and EMF testing, which needs to be performed in less-polluted copper-screened rooms. The challenge tests for proof of chemical sensitivity include inhaled toxics within a clean booth that is chemical- and particulate-free at ambient doses in parts per million (ppm) or parts per billion (ppb). Individual foods, both organic and commercial (that are contaminated with herbicides and pesticides), are used orally. Water testing and intradermal testing are performed in a less-polluted, controlled environment. These include specific dose injections of molds, dust, and pollen that are preservative-free, individual organic foods, and individual chemicals, i.e. methane, ethane, propane, butane, hexane, formaldehyde, ethanol, car exhaust, jet fuel exhaust, and prosthetic implants (metal plates, pacemakers, mesh, etc.). Normal saline is used as a placebo. EMF testing is performed in a copper-screened room using a frequency generator. In our experience, 80% of the EMF-sensitive patients had chemical sensitivity when studied under less-polluted conditions for particulates, controlled natural gas, pesticides, and chemicals like formaldehyde.
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Allergological and toxicological aspects in a multiple chemical sensitivity cohort. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2013; 2013:356235. [PMID: 24367721 PMCID: PMC3866722 DOI: 10.1155/2013/356235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2013] [Accepted: 05/11/2013] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Background. Multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS) is a chronic condition characterized by an exaggerated response to toxicants. We ascertained the prevalence of allergy to metals and toxicological aspects in MCS patients. Methods. We conducted a retrospective review of medical records of 41 patients with MCS. We performed patch testing (n = 21) for dental series and did lymphocyte transformation test (n = 18) for metals. We measured mercury in samples of blood (n = 19), urine (n = 19), saliva (n = 20), and scalp hair (n = 17) to investigate the association between mercury levels and cases of MCS. Results. The prevalence of metal immune hypersensitivity in a subset of 26 patients was 92.3 percent. Elevations of mercury occurred in 81.2 percent (26 of 32). The mean (±SD) in blood concentrations of mercury was 7.6 ± 13.6 μg/L; mean in urine was 1.9 ± 2.5 μg/L; mean in scalp hair was 2.2 ± 2.5 μg/g; mean in saliva was 38.1 ± 52.1 μg/L. Subgroup analyses showed that elevation of mercury levels in biological matrices were associated with mercury amalgams in patients with MCS (22 patients), compared with controls (8 patients) (odds ratio 11 : 95 percent confidence interval 1.5 to 81.6; P = 0.023). Conclusions. Our data show an increased prevalence of metal allergy and elevation of mercury levels in bioindicators among patients with MCS.
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Hetherington L, Battershill J. Review of evidence for a toxicological mechanism of idiopathic environmental intolerance. Hum Exp Toxicol 2012; 32:3-17. [PMID: 23060407 DOI: 10.1177/0960327112457189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Idiopathic environmental intolerance (IEI) is a medically unexplained disorder characterised by a wide variety of unspecific symptoms in different organ systems and attributed to nontoxic concentrations of chemicals and other environmental factors that are tolerated by the majority of individuals. Both exposure to chemicals and behavioural conditioning are considered as possible contributors to the development of IEI. However, owing to the heterogeneity of the condition, it is difficult to separate the toxicological, physiological and psychological aspects of IEI. Here, we review the evidence for postulated toxicologically mediated mechanisms for IEI. Available data do not support either a classical receptor-mediated or an idiosyncratic toxicological mechanism. Furthermore, if there were convincing evidence for a psychological cause for many patients with IEI, then this would suggest that the priority for the future is the development of psychological treatments for IEI. Finally, we advocate genome wide screening of IEI patients to elucidate genotypic features of the condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lh Hetherington
- General Toxicology Group, Toxicology Department, Centre for Radiation, Chemical and Environmental Hazards, Health Protection Agency, Didcot, Oxon, UK.
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Pall ML. Two fragrance chemicals may act as toxicants via TRPA1 stimulation rather than via direct mitochondrial action. Toxicol In Vitro 2012; 27:2022. [PMID: 23022374 DOI: 10.1016/j.tiv.2012.09.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Salvemini D, Little JW, Doyle T, Neumann WL. Roles of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species in pain. Free Radic Biol Med 2011; 51:951-66. [PMID: 21277369 PMCID: PMC3134634 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2011.01.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 222] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2010] [Revised: 01/19/2011] [Accepted: 01/20/2011] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Peroxynitrite (PN; ONOO⁻) and its reactive oxygen precursor superoxide (SO; O₂•⁻) are critically important in the development of pain of several etiologies including pain associated with chronic use of opiates such as morphine (also known as opiate-induced hyperalgesia and antinociceptive tolerance). This is now an emerging field in which considerable progress has been made in terms of understanding the relative contributions of SO, PN, and nitroxidative stress in pain signaling at the molecular and biochemical levels. Aggressive research in this area is poised to provide the pharmacological basis for development of novel nonnarcotic analgesics that are based upon the unique ability to selectively eliminate SO and/or PN. As we have a better understanding of the roles of SO and PN in pathophysiological settings, targeting PN may be a better therapeutic strategy than targeting SO. This is because, unlike PN, which has no currently known beneficial role, SO may play a significant role in learning and memory. Thus, the best approach may be to spare SO while directly targeting its downstream product, PN. Over the past 15 years, our team has spearheaded research concerning the roles of SO and PN in pain and these results are currently leading to the development of solid therapeutic strategies in this important area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Salvemini
- Department of Pharmacological and Physiological Science, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63104, USA.
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Cao Y, Wilder-Smith CH, Li XH, Wong RKM, Hammer J, Ho KY. Characterization of a reproducible gastric pain model using oral capsaicin titration in healthy volunteers. Neurogastroenterol Motil 2011; 23:e261-70. [PMID: 21679343 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2982.2011.01734.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sensory sensitization is one of the main pathophysiological hypotheses in functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs). As sensitization may affect various sensory modalities, we aimed to develop a reproducible gastric pain model utilizing polymodal pathways for use in functional and other pain disorders. METHODS In this double-blind, cross-over study 42 healthy subjects swallowed one capsule containing either capsaicin 0.5mg or nocebo every 15min until moderate pain (intensity >30 on 100mm visual analogue scale) was attained for at least 5min. Pain was rated every minute. Capsaicin titration was repeated thrice for reliability calculation. KEY RESULTS Moderate pain in the upper abdomen was successfully achieved in 38 of 42 subjects (90%) with capsaicin titration and in one of 42 (2%) with nocebo. The median dosage required to induce moderate pain for at least 5min was two capsules (interquartile range 1-3) and the median gastric pain intensity was 47 (41-53). The median duration of moderate pain was 8min (5-12). Moderate pain was successfully reproduced with capsaicin in all subjects on study days 2 and 3, with an excellent Cronbach reliability coefficient of >0.8. CONCLUSIONS & INFERENCES Standardized gastric pain can be conveniently achieved in a majority of healthy subjects using a simple oral capsaicin titration, with minimal adverse events. The between-test reproducibility is high and nocebo responses are negligible. This technique stimulating a multimodal physiological pathway will be useful in the investigation of sensory changes in FGIDs, including functional dyspepsia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Cao
- Department of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
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Kunkler PE, Ballard CJ, Oxford GS, Hurley JH. TRPA1 receptors mediate environmental irritant-induced meningeal vasodilatation. Pain 2010; 152:38-44. [PMID: 21075522 DOI: 10.1016/j.pain.2010.08.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 137] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2010] [Revised: 07/01/2010] [Accepted: 08/16/2010] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
The TRPA1 receptor is a member of the transient receptor potential (TRP) family of ion channels expressed in nociceptive neurons. TRPA1 receptors are targeted by pungent compounds from mustard and garlic and environmental irritants such as formaldehyde and acrolein. Ingestion or inhalation of these chemical agents causes irritation and burning in the nasal and oral mucosa and respiratory lining. Headaches have been widely reported to be induced by inhalation of environmental irritants, but it is unclear how these agents produce headache. Stimulation of trigeminal neurons releases CGRP and substance P and induces neurogenic inflammation associated with the pain of migraine. Here we test the hypothesis that activation of TRPA1 receptors is the mechanistic link between environmental irritants and peptide-mediated neurogenic inflammation. Known TRPA1 agonists and environmental irritants stimulate CGRP release from dissociated rat trigeminal ganglia neurons and this release is blocked by a selective TRPA1 antagonist, HC-030031. Further, TRPA1 agonists and environmental irritants increase meningeal blood flow following intranasal administration. Prior dural application of the CGRP antagonist, CGRP(8-37), or intranasal or dural administration of HC-030031, blocks the increases in blood flow elicited by environmental irritants. Together these results demonstrate that TRPA1 receptor activation by environmental irritants stimulates CGRP release and increases cerebral blood flow. We suggest that these events contribute to headache associated with environmental irritants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phillip Edward Kunkler
- The Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Stark Neurosciences Research Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA The Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Stark Neurosciences Research Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
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Hoeck AD, Pall ML. Will vitamin D supplementation ameliorate diseases characterized by chronic inflammation and fatigue? Med Hypotheses 2010; 76:208-13. [PMID: 20980105 DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2010.09.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2010] [Revised: 08/17/2010] [Accepted: 09/30/2010] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Chronic NF-κB activation has been supposed as a key event in chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) and many other better-defined pro-inflammatory diseases. Knowledge about the impact of deficiency vitamin D on chronic NF-κB activation could open a new disease approach. Whereas NF-κB activation leads at first to a pro-inflammatory immune response, later on a vitamin D-dependent anti-inflammatory response ensues. Binding of the active vitamin D metabolite 1,25(OH)(2)D(3) to vitamin D receptor (VDR) yields a transcription factor which represses NF-κB activation, and additionally modulates and down-regulates adaptive, but enhances innate immune responses, and improves redox balance, thus counterbalancing inflammation on multiple levels. However, this built-in late counterbalance against inflammation works only when stores of calcium and 25(OH)D(3) are abundant. Therefore a connection between lowered vitamin D-metabolism and persistent NF-κB activation, augmented nitrosative-oxidative stress, redox imbalance, chronic inflammation, and concomitant fatigue can be postulated. In order to confirm this hypothesis, randomized controlled clinical studies about the clinical effects of supplementation of calcium and vitamin D(3) would be necessary in diseases characterized by persistent NF-κB activation and chronic inflammation and fatigue.
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Raffa RB, Pergolizzi JV. Deciphering the mechanism(s) of action of natural products: analgesic peroxide oil as example. J Clin Pharm Ther 2010; 36:283-98. [PMID: 21545611 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2710.2010.01190.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There are multiple reports of natural products having therapeutic effect. In an era of evidence-based medicine, clinical trials inform clinical decisions regarding use of the product, but prevailing preference is to identify and use a single 'active ingredient'. Yet, the clinical benefit of a natural product might derive from the fortuitous combination of its multiple components. Therefore, the elucidation of the mechanism(s) of action of natural products is important, but presents significant challenges. This article examines this issue using peroxide oil (essential oxygen oil) as an illustrative example. OBJECTIVE To review the published literature of a natural product in an effort to elucidate postulated mechanism(s) of action of a complex mixture. METHODS The clinical and preclinical literature was reviewed from the perspective of its contribution to elucidating a mechanism of analgesic action of a natural product. RESULTS Peroxide oil contains ingredients that are associated with analgesic mechanisms, such inhibition of lipid peroxidation and arachidonic acid metabolism and non-opioid, glibenclamide-sensitive receptor-mediated and K(ATP) -NO-cGMP channel pathways. CONCLUSION Although its exact mechanism remains unknown, peroxide oil provides an example of how a natural product can be evaluated for plausible mechanistic explanation of its purported therapeutic efficacy. Such an approach seems valuable, since, as in this case, the constituents appear to contribute in an additive or synergistic manner, something not possible with a single substance.
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Affiliation(s)
- R B Raffa
- Temple University School of Pharmacy, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA.
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Pall ML. Multiple chemical sensitivity is a response to chemicals acting as toxicants via excessive NMDA activity. J Psychosom Res 2010; 69:327-8; author reply 328-30. [PMID: 20708456 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychores.2010.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2009] [Revised: 03/30/2010] [Accepted: 05/11/2010] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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Light AR, White AT, Hughen RW, Light KC. Moderate exercise increases expression for sensory, adrenergic, and immune genes in chronic fatigue syndrome patients but not in normal subjects. THE JOURNAL OF PAIN 2009; 10:1099-112. [PMID: 19647494 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpain.2009.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 111] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2009] [Revised: 05/10/2009] [Accepted: 06/01/2009] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is characterized by debilitating fatigue, often accompanied by widespread muscle pain that meets criteria for fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS). Symptoms become markedly worse after exercise. Previous studies implicated dysregulation of the sympathetic nervous system (SNS), and immune system (IS) in CFS and FMS. We recently demonstrated that acid sensing ion channel (probably ASIC3), purinergic type 2X receptors (probably P2X4 and P2X5) and the transient receptor potential vanilloid type 1 (TRPV1) are molecular receptors in mouse sensory neurons detecting metabolites that cause acute muscle pain and possibly muscle fatigue. These molecular receptors are found on human leukocytes along with SNS and IS genes. Real-time, quantitative PCR showed that 19 CFS patients had lower expression of beta-2 adrenergic receptors but otherwise did not differ from 16 control subjects before exercise. After a sustained moderate exercise test, CFS patients showed greater increases than control subjects in gene expression for metabolite detecting receptors ASIC3, P2X4, and P2X5, for SNS receptors alpha-2A, beta-1, beta-2, and COMT and IS genes for IL10 and TLR4 lasting from 0.5 to 48 hours (P < .05). These increases were also seen in the CFS subgroup with comorbid FMS and were highly correlated with symptoms of physical fatigue, mental fatigue, and pain. These new findings suggest dysregulation of metabolite detecting receptors as well as SNS and IS in CFS and CFS-FMS. PERSPECTIVE Muscle fatigue and pain are major symptoms of CFS. After moderate exercise, CFS and CFS-FMS patients show enhanced gene expression for receptors detecting muscle metabolites and for SNS and IS, which correlate with these symptoms. These findings suggest possible new causes, points for intervention, and objective biomarkers for these disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alan R Light
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah 84132-2304, USA.
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Pall ML. Post-radiation syndrome as a NO/ONOO- cycle, chronic fatigue syndrome-like disease. Med Hypotheses 2008; 71:537-41. [PMID: 18667279 DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2008.05.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2008] [Revised: 05/09/2008] [Accepted: 05/12/2008] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Post-radiation syndrome is proposed to be chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) or a chronic fatigue syndrome-like illness, initiated by exposure to ionizing radiation. This view is supported by the nitric oxide/peroxynitrite (NO/ONOO-) cycle mechanism, the putative etiologic mechanism for CFS and related illnesses. Ionizing radiation may initiate illness by increasing nitric oxide levels via increased activity of the transcription factor NF-kappaB and consequent increased synthesis of the inducible nitric oxide synthase. Two types of components of the nitric oxide/peroxynitrite cycle have been studied in post-radiation syndrome patients and shown to be elevated. The symptoms and signs of post-radiation syndrome and its chronicity are similar or identical to those of chronic fatigue syndrome and can be explained as being a consequence of nitric oxide/peroxynitrite cycle etiology. While the data available to test this view are limited, it provides for the first time a comprehensive explanation for post-radiation syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin L Pall
- School of Molecular Biosciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164-4234, USA.
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Pall ML. Nitric oxide synthase partial uncoupling as a key switching mechanism for the NO/ONOO- cycle. Med Hypotheses 2007; 69:821-5. [PMID: 17448611 DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2007.01.070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2007] [Accepted: 01/26/2007] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Short-term stressors, capable of increasing nitric oxide levels, act to initiate cases of illnesses including chronic fatigue syndrome, multiple chemical sensitivity, fibromyalgia and posttraumatic stress disorder. These stressors, acting primarily through the nitric oxide product, peroxynitrite, are thought to initiate a complex vicious cycle mechanism, known as the NO/ONOO- cycle that is responsible for chronic illness. The complexity of the NO/ONOO- cycle raises the question as to whether the mechanism that switches on this cycle is this complex cycle itself or whether a simpler mechanism is the primary switch. It is proposed here that the switch involves a combination of two variable switches, the increase of nitric oxide synthase (NOS) activity and the partial uncoupling of the NOS activity, with uncoupling caused by a tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) deficiency. NOS uncoupling causes the NOS enzymes to produce superoxide, the other precursor of peroxynitrite, in place of nitric oxide. Thus partial uncoupling will cause NOS proteins to act like peroxynitrite synthases, leading, in turn to increased NF-kappaB activity. Peroxynitrite is known to oxidize BH4, and consequently partial uncoupling may initiate a vicious cycle, propagating the partial uncoupling over time. The combination of high NOS activity and BH4 depletion will lead to a potential vicious cycle that may be expected to switch on the larger NO/ONOO- cycle, thus producing the symptoms and signs of chronic illness. The role of peroxynitrite in the NO/ONOO- cycle also implies that such uncoupling is part of the chronic phase cycle mechanism such that agents that lower uncoupling will be useful in treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin L Pall
- School of Molecular Biosciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164-4234, USA.
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Ahmed S, Tsukahara S, Yamamoto S, Kunugita N, Arashidani K, Fujimaki H. Effects of low-level formaldehyde exposure on synaptic plasticity-related gene expression in the hippocampus of immunized mice. J Neuroimmunol 2007; 186:104-11. [PMID: 17434604 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneuroim.2007.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2006] [Revised: 12/26/2006] [Accepted: 03/05/2007] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
We examined the effects of inhalative exposure to formaldehyde (FA, 400 ppb) on N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor subunits (NR2A and NR2B), dopamine receptor subtypes (D1 and D2), cyclic AMP responsive element-binding protein (CREB)-1, CREB-2, FosB/DeltaFosB, and transient receptor potential vanilloid receptor (TRPV1) in the hippocampus of ovalbumin-immunized mice using quantitative real-time PCR. Western blot analyses for pCREB were performed. The mRNA levels of NR2A, D1 and D2 receptors, and CREB-1 were significantly increased by FA, but NR2B, CREB-2, FosB/DeltaFosB, and TRPV1 mRNA levels remained unchanged. Treatment with MK-801 normalized the mRNA levels induced by FA. There was no significant effect of FA exposure and MK-801 treatment on the protein level of pCREB. These results indicate that FA exposure selectively up-regulates hippocampal gene expression in immunologically sensitized mice. The FA effects are presumably mediated by glutamatergic neurotransmission through NMDA receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sohel Ahmed
- Environmental Health Sciences Division, National Institute for Environmental Studies, 16-2 Onogawa, Tsukuba 305-8506, Ibaraki, Japan
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Abstract
Mast cells are tissue-resident immune effector cells. They respond to diverse stimuli by releasing potent biological mediators into the surrounding tissue, and initiating inflammatory responses that promote wound healing and infection clearance. In addition to stimulation via immunological routes, mast cells also respond to polybasic secretagogues and physical stimuli. Each mechanism for mast cell activation relies on the influx of calcium through specific ion channels in the plasma membrane. Recent reports suggest that several calcium-permeant cation channels of the TRPV family are expressed in mast cells. TRPV channels are a family of sensors that receive and react to chemical messengers and physical environmental cues, including thermal, osmotic, and mechanical stimuli. The central premise of this review is that TRPVs transduce physiological and pathophysiological cues that are functionally coupled to calcium signaling and mediator release in mast cells. Inappropriate mast cell activation is at the core of numerous inflammatory pathologies, rendering the mast cell TRPV channels potentially important therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Turner
- Center for Biomedical Research at Queen's Medical Center, University Tower 811, 1356 Lusitana Street, Honolulu, HI 96813, USA.
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Pall ML. Nitric oxide and the etiology of chronic fatigue syndrome: Giving credit where credit is due. Med Hypotheses 2005; 65:631-3. [PMID: 15936892 DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2005.03.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2005] [Accepted: 03/24/2005] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
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