The association between soy-based food and soy isoflavone intake and the risk of gastric cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Soy contains many bioactive phytochemicals, such as isoflavones, which have the effect of preventing many cancers. Some studies have shown the beneficial effect of soy-based food and isoflavone intake on gastric cancer (GC), while others claimed no effect. Therefore, whether the beneficial effect of soy-based food is related to its fermentation or whether its protective effect comes from isoflavones still remains inconclusive. Our aim was to investigate the relationship between total soybean, fermented soybean, non-fermented soybean and isoflavone intake, and the risk of GC. Ten cohort studies and 21 case-control studies involving 916 354 participants were included. The association between soy-based food and isoflavone intake and the risk of GC was calculated with the pooled relative risks (RRs) for the highest versus lowest intake categories. The results showed that isoflavone intake might be a protective factor to GC, but the result was not statistically significant (RR = 0.92; 95% CI: 0.79-1.07). However, total soybean intake could significantly decrease the risk of GC by 36% (RR = 0.64; 95% CI: 0.51-0.80), which might be credited to non-fermented soybean products (RR = 0.79; 95% CI: 0.71-0.87). In contrast, high intake of fermented soybean products could increase the risk of GC (RR = 1.19; 95% CI: 1.02-1.38). High intake of total soybean and non-fermented soybean products could reduce the risk of GC, and high intake of fermented soybean products could increase the risk, which indicated that the beneficial effect of soy-based food might be related to its non-fermentation. However, high intake of isoflavones may not be associated with the incidence of GC. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.

Amino Acid Transporter LAT1 (SLC7A5) Mediates MeHg-Induced Oxidative Stress Defense in the Human Placental Cell Line HTR-8/SVneo

The placental barrier can protect the fetus from contact with harmful substances. The potent neurotoxin methylmercury (MeHg), however, is very efficiently transported across the placenta. Our previous data suggested that L-type amino acid transporter (LAT)1 is involved in placental MeHg uptake, accepting MeHg-L-cysteine conjugates as substrate due to structural similarity to methionine. The aim of the present study was to investigate the antioxidant defense of placental cells to MeHg exposure and the role of LAT1 in this response. When trophoblast-derived HTR-8/SVneo cells were LAT1 depleted by siRNA-mediated knockdown, they accumulated less MeHg. However, they were more susceptible to MeHg-induced toxicity. This was evidenced in decreased cell viability at a usually noncytotoxic concentration of 0.03 µM MeHg (~6 µg/L). Treatment with ≥0.3 µM MeHg increased cytotoxicity, apoptosis rate, and oxidative stress of HTR-8/SVneo cells. These effects were enhanced under LAT1 knockdown. Reduced cell number was seen when MeHg-exposed cells were cultured in medium low in cysteine, a constituent of the tripeptide glutathione (GSH). Because LAT1-deficient HTR-8/SVneo cells have lower GSH levels than control cells (independent of MeHg treatment), we conclude that LAT1 is essential for de novo synthesis of GSH, required to counteract oxidative stress. Genetic predisposition to decreased LAT1 function combined with MeHg exposure could increase the risk of placental damage.

Does red orange juice supplementation has a protective effect on performance, cardiovascular parameters, muscle damage and oxidative stress markers following the Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Test Level-1 under polluted air?

This study aimed to investigate the effect of red orange juice supplementation (ROJS) on performance, cardiovascular parameters, muscle damage and oxidative stress markers of athletes following exercise under polluted air. Eleven soccer players performed a Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Test Level-1 in polluted area (PA) and non-polluted area (NPA). Participants are invited to drink 500 ml of red orange or placebo (PLA) juice 2.5 h before the test. Blood samples were collected at rest and 3 min after each session to assess creatine kinase (CK), lactate dehydrogenase, malondialdehyde (MDA) and total antioxidant status. Our results showed that, VO_2max, heart rate and systolic blood pressure post-exercise were significantly altered by pollution with both supplements, but the damage was lowered more with ROJS than PLA. Concerning muscle damage and oxidative stress markers, orange juice supplementation blunted the effect of pollution on CK levels post-exercise (p > 0.05) and decreases significantly (p < 0.05) the MDA levels post-exercise in PA and NPA compared to PLA supplementation. In conclusion, ROJS seemed to be an appropriate strategy to reduce the risk of exposure to pollution especially on muscle damage and oxidative stress markers.

Anti-Inflammatory and Cytoprotective Effect of Plant Sterol and Galactooligosaccharides-Enriched Beverages in Caco-2 Cells

Plant sterol (PS) (1 g/100 mL) enriched milk-based fruit beverages with or without galactooligosaccharides (GOS) (1.8 g/100 mL) were used in differentiated Caco-2 cells. Their potential cytopreventive effect against oxidative stress induced by cholesterol oxidation products (COPs) and their anti-inflammatory properties were evaluated. Preincubation (24 h) with bioaccessible fractions from beverages without and with GOS (MfB and MfB-G) completely prevented the COPs (60 μM/4 h) induced oxidative stress independent to GOS presence with exception to calcium influx and GSH content, where a partial protective effect was observed. Besides, MfB produced a significant (p < 0.05) reduction of IL-8 (40%) and IL-6 (50%) after IL-1β-induction (1 ng/mL/24 h) through the inhibition of NF-κB p65 translocation into the nucleus (16%) compared to control cells, while GOS presence compromised their anti-inflammatory effect. Therefore, PS-enriched milk-based fruit beverage could be an interesting strategy to prevent intestinal injury produced by COPs and to attenuate the pro-inflammatory process in intestinal human diseases. GOS addition had no extra beneficial antioxidant effect and even reduced their anti-inflammatory properties.

Selenium intake from tuna in Galicia (Spain): Health risk assessment and protective role against exposure to mercury and inorganic arsenic

This study aims to quantify the selenium contribution from tuna to the Spanish diet and evidence the Se protective role against mercury and inorganic arsenic toxicity. Selenium concentrations in tuna were determined by ICP-MS spectrometry (expressed as mg kg^-1), and the risk assessment was evaluated joined to Hg and iAs contrasting criteria of regulatory agencies with those that consider the Se protective role. Differences between Se average concentrations in fresh (1.24) and preserved (1.17) tuna were not statistically significant. In canned tuna species, Se presented higher mean levels in Thunnus albacares (1.28) than Thunnus alalunga (1.01) with statistically significant differences (p = 0.002), and among canned preparations a decreasing sequence was observed in different preparation-packaging media: oil (1.42) > natural (1.01) > pickled (0.92). Statistical study showed Hg-iAs as the only pair significantly correlated in all samples. The HI (sum of individual target hazard quotients -THQs-) on the consumption of tuna in Spain, due to exposure to Se, Hg and iAs, revealed the possibility of risk of adverse chronic effects in the six-year-old children group (1.09). According to the maximum allowable tuna consumption rate in meals/week (CR_mw) and the THQs obtained, tuna intake, especially in children, should be moderated. The health benefit values (HBV_Se) were positive in all samples, 14.53 and 15.65 in fresh and preserved tuna, respectively, which allows tuna to be considered safe. The benefit-risk value (BRV) evidenced the Se molar excess with respect to Hg that reached a surplus of 14.32% on Se AI in adults. Since iAs reduces the Se bioavailability, applying a new BRV criterion, the aforementioned percentage decreased to 13.49% of Se AI. In conclusion, tuna offers high levels of selenium to counteract adverse effects by the presence of Hg and iAs, and to provide consumers an important source of this essential element safely.

Choice test to determine potential attractants and repellents for the sheep scab mite, Psoroptes ovis (Acari: Psoroptidae)

A choice test bioassay was devised to screen compounds as potential semiochemicals (e.g., kairomones or allomones that mediate aggregation, attraction or repellence) for the obligate parasitic mite, Psoroptes ovis. The choice test used filter paper discs in a 1:4 test:control ratio and was found to be a reliable, effective and efficient method. Four mammalian lipid components were assessed as potential attractants-linoleic acid, arachidonic acid, methyl myristate and squalene-, and the insect/tick repellent DEET for potential repellence. Linoleic acid was significantly attractive to P. ovis adult females and has the potential to act as an attractant. Identification of P. ovis semiochemicals, especially attractants, would be beneficial in the development of novel control methods and tools for this species. This is essential considering the increase in resistance to the limited prophylactic chemical treatments in the UK, and the high prevalence of scab infections.

Ameliorative effect of Spirulina platensis against lead nitrate-induced cytotoxicity and genotoxicity in catfish Clarias gariepinus

The present study was designed to investigate the protective role of dietary supplementation of Spirulina platensis (SP) against cytotoxic and genotoxic effects of lead nitrate in Clarias gariepinus. Four groups of fishes were used: first group as control which fed on basal diet, second group fed on basal diet and exposed to (1 mg/L of lead nitrate), third group fed on diet containing 0.25% SP and exposed to (1 mg/L of lead nitrate), and fourth group fed on diet containing 0.5%SP and exposed to (1 mg/L of lead nitrate). Fish samples were taken at 2nd and 4th week of exposure. The hematological indices of lead nitrate-exposed group were decreased significantly compared to the control group at 2nd and 4th week of exposure. Lead nitrate caused a significant increase in the percentage of poikilocytosis, micronuclei, and apoptotic cells as well as comet tail length and olive tail moment compared with the control group at 2nd and 4th week of exposure. The highest level of damage was found on 4th week of exposure with all parameters. Dietary inclusion of SP ameliorated these cytotoxic and genetic changes, as well as this amelioration was concentration and time dependent. Consequently, the present study proposed that the addition of SP to the fish diet can be used as a promising protective agent to oppose cytotoxic and genotoxic effects of lead nitrate in aquaculture. Graphical abstract.

Nepetalactone-rich essential oil mitigates phosphinothricin-induced ammonium toxicity in Arabidopsis thaliana (L.) Heynh

Active ingredient of the commercial herbicide BASTA (B), phosphinothricin, acts as an inhibitor of glutamine synthetase (GS), a key enzyme in ammonium assimilation. The treatment with BASTA leads to an elevation of ammonium levels in plants and further to various physiological alterations, ammonium toxicity and lethality. Results of the present study emphasize the complexity underlying control mechanisms that determine BASTA interaction with essential oil (EO) from Nepeta rtanjensis (NrEO), bioherbicide inducing oxidative stress in target plants. Simultaneous application of NrEO and BASTA, two agents showing differential mode of action, suspends BASTA-induced ammonium toxicity in Arabidopsis thaliana plants. This is achieved through maintaining GS activity, which sustains a sub-toxic and/or sub-lethal ammonium concentration in tissues. As revealed by the present study, regulation of GS activity, as influenced by BASTA and NrEO, occurs at transcriptional, posttranscriptional, and/or posttranslational levels. Two genes encoding cytosolic GS, GLN1;1 and GLN1;3, are highlighted as the main isozymes in Arabidopsis shoots contributing to NrEO-induced overcoming of BASTA-generated ammonium toxicity. The effects of NrEO might be ascribed to its major component nepetalactone, but the contribution of minor EO components should not be neglected. Although of fundamental significance, the results of the present study suggest possible low efficiency of BASTA in plantations of medicinal/aromatic plants such as Nepeta species. Furthermore, these results highlight the possibility of using NrEO as a bioherbicide in BASTA-treated crop fields to mitigate the effect of BASTA residues in contaminated soils.

Manipulation of the rhizosphere bacterial community by biofertilizers is associated with mitigation of cadmium phytotoxicity

The objective of this study was to understand the effect of biofertilizers on cadmium (Cd)-induced phytotoxicity and the rhizosphere bacterial community. The crop specie rice (Oryza sativa L.) was planted in Cd-contaminated soils, and Illumina high-throughput sequencing was performed to investigate how the composition of the rhizosphere bacterial community responded to the addition of biofertilizers. Biofertilizers were effective in alleviating Cd phytotoxicity as indicated by the significant increase in plant biomass (up to 85.2% and 48.4% for roots and shoots, respectively) and decrease in tissue Cd concentration (up to 72.2% in roots) of rice receiving fertilizer treatments compared with the CK (no treatment). These positive effects were likely due to the increase in soil pH, which can be attributed primarily to Cd immobilization, and the promotion of beneficial taxa such as Proteobacteria, Bacteroidetes, Gemmatimonadetes, and Firmicutes. In addition, autoclaved biofertilizers tended to have similar beneficial effects and similar bacterial community alpha diversities as the original biofertilizer treatments. This suggests that the change in soil physicochemical properties by biofertilizer addition might drive the structure of rhizosphere bacterial community, and not the biofertilizer microbes themselves. In both the original and sterilized biofertilizer treatments, the effectiveness in mitigating of Cd phytotoxicity was found to be dependent on the type of biofertilizer applied. Comparatively, the biofertilizer denoted as DY was more effective in mitigating Cd phytotoxicity than others. These results demonstrate that biofertilizer addition could be a promising approach to immobilize soil Cd by manipulating the rhizosphere bacterial community, thus to facilitate plant growth.

Evidence for a protective role for the rs805305 single nucleotide polymorphism of dimethylarginine dimethylaminohydrolase 2 (DDAH2) in septic shock through the regulation of DDAH activity

BACKGROUND

Dimethylarginine dimethylaminohydrolase 2 (DDAH2) regulates the synthesis of nitric oxide (NO) through the metabolism of the endogenous inhibitor of nitric oxide synthase, asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA). Pilot studies have associated the rs805305 SNP of DDAH2 with ADMA concentrations in sepsis. This study explored the impact of the rs805305 polymorphism on DDAH activity and outcome in septic shock.

METHODS

We undertook a secondary analysis of data and samples collected during the Vasopressin versus noradrenaline as initial therapy in septic shock (VANISH) trial. Plasma and DNA samples isolated from 286 patients recruited into the VANISH trial were analysed. Concentrations of L-Arginine and the methylarginines ADMA and symmetric dimethylarginine (SDMA) were determined from plasma samples. Whole blood and buffy-coat samples were genotyped for polymorphisms of DDAH2. Clinical data collected during the study were used to explore the relationship between circulating methylarginines, genotype and outcome.

RESULTS

Peak ADMA concentration over the study period was associated with a hazard ratio for death at 28 days of 3.3 (95% CI 2.0-5.4), p < 0.001. Reduced DDAH activity measured by an elevated ADMA:SDMA ratio was associated with a reduced risk of death in septic shock (p = 0.03). The rs805305 polymorphism of DDAH2 was associated with reduced DDAH activity (p = 0.004) and 28-day mortality (p = 0.02). Mean SOFA score and shock duration were also reduced in the less common G:G genotype compared to heterozygotes and C:C genotype patients (p = 0.04 and p = 0.02, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Plasma ADMA is a biomarker of outcome in septic shock, and reduced DDAH activity is associated with a protective effect. The polymorphism rs805305 SNP is associated with reduced mortality, which is potentially mediated by reduced DDAH2 activity.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ISRCTN Registry, ISRCTN20769191 . Registered on 20 September 2012.

Hepatoprotective effects of green Capsicum annum against ethanol induced oxidative stress, inflammation and apoptosis in rats

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Capsicum annum L. (CA) is used extensively as a spice and is a rich source of antioxidant vitamins. It has long been used in Indian, Native American, and Chinese traditional medicine as a carminative and an appetizer that normalizes liver function. However, its hepato-protective activity has so far not been studied.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The present study was undertaken to evaluate the efficacy of aqueous extract of CA at two different doses (125 mg/kg body weight and 250 mg/kg body weight), against ethanol induced oxidative stress and apoptosis in liver tissue.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Adult male Wistar rats, weighing 150-200 g, were randomly grouped (n = 6) and treated with ethanol (2 g/kg bw, i.p.), CA₁₂₅ (125 mg/kg bw, i.p.), CA₂₅₀ (250 mg/kg bw, i.p.), ethanol with CA (similar doses), and control (0.5 ml normal saline, i.p.) for 30 days. Lipid peroxidation (LPO) and reduced glutathione content (GSH) in tissue homogenate, along with catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (Cu-Zn-SOD & Mn-SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione reductase (GR), glutathione-s-transferase (GST) and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G-6-P-D) activity were evaluated. Serum levels of alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST), alkaline phosphate (ALP), triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (CHLS), high density lipoprotein (HDL), low density lipoprotein (LDL) very low density lipoprotein (VLDL), tumour necrotic factor alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin 6 (IL-6) were also measured using ELISA kits. Histopathological evaluation of the hepatic tissue was performed by hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) and periodic acid-schiff (PAS) staining. TUNEL assay was performed for apoptosis detection.

RESULTS

Ethanol significantly (p < 0.001) increased ALT, AST, ALP, TNF-α, IL-6, LPO, Cu-Zn-SOD, GST, GPx, TG, CHLS, LDL, VLDL levels, along with significant (p < 0.001) decrease in HDL, Mn-SOD, CAT, GSH, GR and G6PD activity. Co-administration of CA along with ethanol alleviated changes in the above parameters (p < 0.001) in a dose-dependent manner and also reduced the number of apoptotic death cells. Histo-pathological and histo-chemical studies of liver sections also ascertained the outcomes of this study.

CONCLUSION

Thus, it can be concluded that the aqueous extract of green CA can exert a protective effect against ethanol induced hepato-toxicity. The possible mechanism may be by acting as an antioxidant; preventing ethanol induced apoptosis and reducing pro-inflammatory cytokine levels.

Colorectal cancer, sun exposure and dietary vitamin D and calcium intake in the MCC-Spain study

OBJECTIVES

To explore the association of colorectal cancer with environmental solar radiation and sun exposure behavior, considering phenotypic variables (eye color, hair color and skin phenotype), dietary intake of vitamin D and calcium, and socio-demographic factors.

STUDY DESIGN

Multicenter population-based frequency matched case-control study in Spain (MCC-Spain), with 2140 CRC cases and 3950 controls.

METHODS

Data were obtained through personal interviews using a structured epidemiological questionnaire that included socio-demographic data, residential history, environmental exposures, behavior, phenotypic and dietary information. An environmental-lifetime sun exposure score was constructed combining residential history and average daily solar radiation, direct and diffuse. Logistic regression was used to explore the association between different variables. A structural equation model was used to verify the associations of the conceptual model.

RESULTS

We found a lower risk of CRC in subjects frequently exposed to sunlight during the previous summer and skin burning due to sun exposure. No association was observed in relation to the residential solar radiation scores. Subjects with light eye or light hair colors had a lower risk of CRC that those with darker colors. Dietary calcium and vitamin D were also protective factors, but not in the multivariate model. The structural equation model analysis suggested that higher sun exposure was associated with a decreased risk of CRC, as well as dietary intake of calcium and vitamin D, and these factors are correlated among themselves and with environmental solar radiation and skin phenotypes.

CONCLUSION

The results agree with previous observations that sun exposure, dietary vitamin D and calcium intake, and serum 25(OH)D concentration reduce the risk of CRC and indicate that these factors may be relevant for cancer prevention.

Characterisation of cattle anal odour constituents associated with the repellency of Rhipicephalus appendiculatus

Adults of the Brown Ear Tick (Rhipicephalus appendiculatus) have a predilection for feeding inside and around the ears of cattle and other hosts. A previous study has shown that the tick locates the host ears by 'push-pull' deployment of a repellent blend emitted at the anal region and an attractant blend emitted at the ears. Interestingly, the two odours play reverse roles with Rhipicephalus evertsi, which prefer to feed around the anal region. The present study was undertaken to characterize the major constituents of the cattle anal odour and to evaluate their repellence to R. appendiculatus. The anal odour was trapped with reverse-phase C₁₈-bonded silica, Porapak Q and Super Q placed in an oven bag attached at the anal region of the cattle for 6 h. The adsorbents were then removed and extracted with dichloromethane, and the extracted compounds analyzed by linked gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The major constituents of the odour were o-xylene, 4-hydroxy-4-methyl-2-pentanone, 4-methyl-2-methoxyphenol, ethylbenzene, 2,6,6-trimethyl-[1S(1α,β,5α)]bicycloheptanes, 5-ethoxydihydro-2(3H)-furanone, 3-methylene-2-pentanone, 5-methyl-2-phenyl-1H-indole, and 3-pentanone. The repellency of the available compounds (o-xylene, 4-hydroxy-4-methyl-2-pentanone, 4-methyl-2-methoxyphenol, ethyl benzene, 3-methylene-2-pentanone, and 3-pentanone) and blends was evaluated using a dual choice tick climbing assay at different doses. The anal odour showed repellence with RD₇₅ of 0.39. Of the compounds tested, 4-methyl-2-methoxyphenol was found to be most repellent (RD₇₅ = 0.56) and 3-pentanone least repellent (RD₇₅ = 622.7). The blend of the six constituents showed RD₇₅ of 0.34, comparable to that of the crude anal odour blend. A series of subtractive bioassays with one constituent of the 6-component blend missing was also carried out. Subtraction of 3-methylpentanone gave the most repellent blend (RD₇₅ = 0.097), whereas subtraction of 4-methylguaiacol gave the least repellent blend (RD₇₅ = 160.7) consistent with the high individual activity of this phenol. The study lays down useful groundwork for on-host deployment of controlled-release of a selected repellent or blend to disrupt the tick's ability to locate its preferred feeding site.

Dietary nano-silver: Does support or discourage thermal tolerance and biochemical status in air-breathing fish reared under multiple stressors?

Unexpected fluctuations in weather parameters due to global climate change have been observed in all ecosystems worldwide. The aquatic ecosystem shelters a great diversity of fishes in the upper region of the ecosystem which adversely get affected due to their poikilothermic nature. The present study was designed to elucidate the impact of critical temperature minima (CTMin), lethal temperature minima (LTMin), critical temperature maxima (CTMax), and lethal temperature maxima (LTMax) on Channa striatus. Biologically synthesized silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) were evaluated for their potential to enhance thermal tolerance and improve the activities of biochemical enzymes of C. striatus reared under lead (Pb) and high temperature (34 °C) for 50 days. Three iso-caloric and iso-nitrogenous diets which included a basal diet and two supplemented diets with Ag-NPs @ 0.5 mg/kg, and 1 mg/kg were used in the study. Results suggested that CTMin and LTMin were significantly (p < 0.01) reduced and CTMax and LTMax were enhanced in the group fed with 0.5 mg/kg Ag-NPs supplemented feed. Pre-exposure to high temperature led to enhanced CTMax and LTMax in C. striatus. The biochemical enzymes involved in protein metabolism, carbohydrate metabolism, acetylcholine esterase and antioxidant activities were found to be normal in fish fed with 0.5 mg/kg Ag-NPs supplemented diet. Bioaccumulation of silver and Pb was determined in different fish tissues and experimental water. Overall, the incorporation of Ag-NPs at 0.5 mg/kg in diet can confer protection to fish against Pb and thermal stress and enhance thermal tolerance of C. striatus.

Transfer of plant protection products from raspberry crops of Laszka and Seedling varieties to beehives

Field studies were conducted to evaluate the transfer of active ingredients (AIs) of plant protection products (PPPs) to beehives. They were applied in two commodity red raspberry plantations of two varieties: Laszka (experiment 1) and Seedling (experiment 2). Samples of flowers, leaves, bees, brood, and honey were examined for the presence of chlorpyrifos, cypermethrin, difenoconazole, cyprodinil, and trifloxystrobin (experiment 1) and chlorpyrifos, boscalid, pyraclostrobin, cypermethrin, difenoconazole, and azoxystrobin (experiment 2). In experiment 1, the highest levels of trifloxystrobin were observed on the surface of flowers, (0.04 μg/flower) and for difenoconazole on the inside (0.023 μg/flower). Leaves contained only trace residues of cypermethrin and cyprodinil (0.001 μg/cm² of leaves each) and trifloxystrobin (0.01 μg/cm² of leaves) on the surface; inside the leaves, the highest levels of trifloxystrobin were observed (0.042 μg/cm² of leaves). In experiment 2, boscalid was found on the surface and inside the flowers and leaves (0.063 and 0.018 μg/flower and 0.057 and 0.033 μg/cm² of leaves, respectively). In bees, brood, and honey (experiment 1), chlorpyrifos was present in the highest quantity (7.3, 1.6, and 4.7 μg/kg, respectively). Additionally, cypermethrin and trifloxystrobin were found in bees, and trifloxystrobin was present in honey. Bees, brood, and honey from plantation 2 contained all studied AIs, with the highest levels of boscalid (28.6 μg/kg of bees, 37.0 μg/kg of brood, and 33.9 μg/kg of honey, respectively). In no case did the PPP residues in honey exceed acceptable maximum residue levels (MRLs)-from a formal and legal point of view, in terms of the used plant protection products, the analysed honey was fit for human consumption.

DPPH-HPLC-MS assisted rapid identification of endothelial protective substances from Xiao-Ke-An

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Xiao-Ke-An formula (XKA) is a Chinese medicine widely used for treating diabetes and associated complications. Endothelial protection is thought to be one of its therapeutic mechanisms. However, the protective effect of XKA on endothelial cells remains unclear, especially in oxidative injury induced endothelial dysfunction.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A novel strategy to rapidly screen and identify potential endothelial protective substances from XKA was established by combining the 2,2'-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl high performance liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (DPPH-HPLC-MS) approach with cell-based verification. Firstly, the DPPH-HPLC-MS approach was employed to identify the antioxidants in XKA. Then, the potent endothelial protective effect of XKA, and the potential active substances and mechanism of action were revealed in EA.hy926 cells injured by tert-butyl hydroperoxide (t-BHP).

RESULTS

XKA exhibited potent antioxidant activity and endothelial protective effect. Phenolic acids derived from Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge, root and rhizome, xanthones from Anemarrhena asphodeloides Bunge, rhizome, and acteoside from Rehmannia glutinosa (Gaertn.) DC., root, were identified as the major endothelial protective components in XKA.

CONCLUSIONS

An efficient method for rapid identifying endothelial protective substances from complex mixtures was developed and used to identify the major endothelial protective components in XKA. This method would help reveal the material base of herbal medicine with endothelial protective effect, and could also be applied to discover novel natural-origin endothelial protective substances.

Antioxidant and Cytoprotective Activities of Grapevine Stilbenes

Grapevine stem extracts are viticulture byproducts rich in stilbenes that are increasingly studied for their potential biological activities. This study aimed to investigate some biological activities of a grape byproduct with high stilbenoid content and to point out the molecules responsible of these beneficial activities. As a consequence, the extract was subjected to a bioguided fractionation and separation by centrifugal partition chromatography. The obtained fractions were characterized by liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry and nuclear magnetic resonance. Fractions were purified further by column chromatography and resulted in the purification of the main constituents. Thirteen stilbenes have been quantified. The most abundant compounds were ε-viniferin, resveratrol, and, in lesser amounts, isohopeaphenol and ampelopsin A. The extract, fractions, and major stilbenes were tested for their antioxidant activity by oxygen radical absorbance capacity and their cyprotective effects against β-amyloid on rat pheochromocytoma cells. Among them, fraction 5 showed significant antioxidant activity and fraction 2 had a significant cytoprotective effect against β-amyloid-induced toxicity. Two putative inhibitors of β-amyloid toxicity have been identified: ampelopsin A and piceatannol.

[TRANSFORMATION OF GASTROPRO- TECTIVE EFFECT OF STRESS IN PROULCEROGENIC CONSEGUENCE: DEVELOPMENT OF EXPERIMENTAL MODELS]

The present work was focused on the development of experimental models, in which we can observe the transformation of gastroprotective effect of stress into the proulcerogenic one. For this aim the effect chronic stress on the formation of indomethacin (35 mg/kg)-induced gastric erosion or cold restrain (10 or 6 °C)-induced gastric erosion was investigated in rats. For chronic stress rats were repeatedly restrained for 14 days daily (1 h or 4 h mild restrain or 1 h intensive restrain) and examined on day 14. Mild restraining didn’t influence on gastric mucosa. In case of intensive restrain, the protective effect of chronic stress on the gastric mucosa was found. In order to avoid the adaptation to the daily stressor of the same modality, we subjected the rats on a daily for 14 days to unpredictable stressors of various modalities. Even in the case of strong unpredictable chronic stress we observed its gastroprotective effect if the indomethacin or cold restrain (10 °C) were used as ulcerogenic factors. The proulcerogenic effect of unpredictable stress was observed only if cold restrain at 6 °C was used as ulcerogenic factor. In conclusion, the findings again support the idea about the gastroprotective effect of stress, even in regards to chronic stress and demonstrate experimental models of transformation gastroprotective effect of stress to ulcerogenic one.

Protective Effect of Silybum marianum and Silibinin on Endothelial Cells Submitted to High Glucose Concentration

Silybum marianum Gaertn. (Milk thistle) has been used since ancient times for the relief of liver diseases characterized by intense oxidative stress such as inflammatory liver disease and cirrhosis. As oxidative stress by hyperglycemia is involved in micro- and macrovascular complications of type 2 diabetes, our aim was to assess the protective effect of milk thistle seed extract against oxidative stress induced by a high glucose concentration on endothelial cells (EA.hy926 cells). High-performance liquid chromatographic analysis shows flavonolignans silychristin and silibinin A and B as major components. No cell toxicity was observed for concentrations up to 100 µg/mL of milk thistle extract for 24 h. Concentrations of 5-25 µg/mL of the extract were used to assess the protective effect on EA.hy926 cells treated with 30 mM glucose for 24 h. Oxidative damage by 30 mM glucose was shown as a significant decrease in reduced glutathione and a significant increase in protein carbonyls and antioxidant enzyme activities. S. marianum extract recovered reduced glutathione and balanced the elevated carbonyls and enzyme activity. Silibinin alone also recovered reduced glutathione and antioxidant enzymes. S. marianum protects endothelial cell against oxidative damage by modulating antioxidant enzyme activity, reduced glutathione, and protein carbonyl levels.

In Vitro Chondroprotective Potential of Extracts Obtained from Various Phyllantus Species

Phyllanthus amarus has been proven to exhibit chondroprotection. Regarding the morphological similarities among Phyllanthus species, we were attracted to evaluate the chondroprotective potential of Phyllanthus species including P. amarus obtained from Chiang Mai and Phuket, Phyllanthus urinaria L., Phyllanthus urinaria subsp. chamaepeuce, Phyllanthus debilis, and Phyllanthus airy-shawii using interleukin-1β-induced degradation of cartilage explants. The ethanolic extracts of the plants were evaluated for major lignans, phyllanthin, and hypophyllanthin by HPLC and further measurements of the total contents of flavonoids and phenolic compounds along with the assays for antioxidant and anti-collagenase activities. The interleukin-1β-induced cartilage explant degradation was performed with/without the extracts at concentrations of 50-250 µg/mL. After 4-14 days of incubation, the medium was assayed for the level of sulfated glycosaminoglycans while the explants were measured for the remaining content of uronic acid. Proteoglycan intensity in the explants was determined by safranin O staining. Diacerein, the antiarthritic agent, was used as the positive control. Although the two major lignans were found in P. amarus from Chiang Mai, P. amarus from Phuket, and P. urinaria L. extracts, similar chondroprotective activities were observed in all Phyllanthus extracts. Total phenolic content and total flavonoid content of the extracts showed a correlation with antioxidation, whereas the total phenolic content correlated with anti-collagenase activity. Among the six extracts, P. airy-shawii showed the greatest antioxidant and collagenase inhibitory activities. The results revealed that chondroprotective activities of all of the extracts of Phyllanthus species might result from an additive or synergistic influence of some constituents of these plants, which could be considered for antiarthritic purposes.

Protective effects of sea buckthorn polysaccharide extracts against LPS/d-GalN-induced acute liver failure in mice via suppressing TLR4-NF-κB signaling

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides L.) berries have been traditionally used to treat gastric disorders, cardiovascular problems, and liver injuries in oriental medicinal system. This study aimed to explore the protective effects and mechanisms of the polysaccharide extracts of Sea buckthorn (HRP) berries against lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and d-galactosamine hydrochloride (d-GalN)-induced acute liver failure in mice.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

HRP was isolated by hot-water extraction and characterized by HPLC and infrared spectrum analysis. The total carbohydrate, uronic acid and protein contents of HRP were measured by a spectrophotometric method. Mice were orally administrated with HRP (50, 100, 200mg/kg) once daily for 14 consecutive days prior to the challenge with LPS (50 μg/kg) and d-GalN (300 mg/kg). Animals of positive control group were intraperitoneally injected with dexamethasone (10mg/kg). Mice were sacrificed at 8h after LPS/d-GalN injection.

RESULTS

Pretreatment with HRP significantly inhibited LPS/d-GalN-induced increases in serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels, which were accompanied by alleviated liver injuries and reduced production of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-1β (IL-1β). HRP was also found to reduce malondialdehyde (MDA) content and to restore superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-PX) activities. Furthermore, HRP supplementation dose-dependently inhibited the expression of Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), phosphorylated extracellular signal-regulated kinase (p-ERK), phosphorylated c-Jun N-terminal kinase (p-JNK), and phosphorylated mitogen activated protein kinase 38 (p-p38 MAPK) in the liver of LPS/d-GalN challenged mice. Pretreatment with HRP also inhibited LPS/d-GalN-induced activation and translocation of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB).

CONCLUSIONS

This study indicates that pretreatment with HRP protects against LPS/d-GalN-induced liver injury in mice via suppressing the TLR4-NF-κB signaling pathway. Sea buckthorn may be a hopeful drug for prevention of acute live injury.

The hepatoprotective effect and chemical constituents of total iridoids and xanthones extracted from Swertia mussotii Franch

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Total iridoids and xanthones (TIXS) were extracted from Swertia mussotii Franch, one of the most important eight Tibetan medicines in China, which was recorded in the book of Jingzhu Bencao and used for clinical treatment of cholestatic hepatitis for many years. Our aim was to study the hepatoprotective effect and chemical constituents of the TIXS.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Crude extracts were prepared using 90% ethanol, and individual fractions were collected following HPD-300 macroporous resin column chromatography. HPLC/MS was applied to qualitatively and quantitatively analyze the TIXS. Then, the alpha-naphthylisot hiocyanate-induced liver damage model was used to assess the hepatoprotective effect of the TIXS.

RESULTS

A total of 12 compounds were identified by the fingerprint chromatography of the TIXS, and swertiamarin and swertianolin were shown to be its two main components. Oral administration of the TIXS at a dose of 35, 70 or 140 mg kg(-1), swertiamarin at a dose of 20 mg kg(-1) or swertianolin at a dose of 20 mg kg(-1), for 7 days in mice significantly reduced the alpha-naphthylisot hiocyanate-induced levels of alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase and the total and direct bilirubins, and increased the bile flow (P<0.01).

CONCLUSION

These findings suggest that the TIXS exhibits significant hepatoprotective effect in the liver damage model induced by alpha-naphthylisot hiocyanate. Its active constituents include swertiamarin and swertianolin.

In vitro antioxidant and in vivo hepatoprotective activity of leave extract of Raphanus sativus in rats using CCL4 model

BACKGROUND

Raphanus sativus is reported to have a variety of biological activities. This work screened the hepato-protective and antioxidant activity of ethanol (ERS), and aqueous (ARS), extracts of leaves of Raphanus sativus in Carbon tetrachloride (CCl4), model in rats.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The extracts were subjected to antioxidant tests (Total reducing power and Total phenolic content), and preliminary phytochemical screening. A pilot study was done on 100 and 300 mg/kg extracts, form which 300 mg was chosen for further experiments. The albino rats (200-250 grams), were divided into 5 groups of 6 animals each (n=6). There were three control groups comprising of normal control (normal saline -1ml/kg), negative control group (CCl4 1ml/kg in olive oil in a ratio of 1:1 v/v), and positive control group (Silymarin 50mg/kg). The Test drugs were given in a dose of 300 mg/kg for both ERS and ARS extract for 7 days. Biochemical parameters (AST, ALT, Alkaline phosphatase, Total Bilirubin), histo-pathological examination of liver and in vivo antioxidant tests [CAT, GSH and MDA] were done.

RESULTS

The phytochemical study showed the presence of flavanoids, terpenoids, alkaloids, saponins and sterols. A dose dependent increase in the oxidative potential was observed in both the extracts with total phenolic content 70.1 and 44.4 GAE/g extract for ERS and ARS respectively. ERS 300mg/kg showed a significant (p<0.001) increase in levels of AST, ALT and alkaline phosphatase as compared to negative control (percentage hepatoprotection =45.3%) while ARS 300 mg/kg (p<.01) group showed 30% hepatoprotection. The GSH (p<0.001) and CAT (p<0.05) in ERS and ARS were significantly increased while MDA levels were decreased (P< 0.01), as compared negative control. The findings were confirmed histo-pathological examination.

CONCLUSION

The ethanol and aqueous extract of Raphanus sativus have partial hepatoprotection against CCl4 toxicity.

Protective effects of SnF2 - Part II. Deposition and retention on pellicle-coated enamel

Deposition of an acid-resistant barrier onto enamel represents a potentially superior means for delivering protection against dietary, erosive acid challenges.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to demonstrate the ability of a stabilised stannous fluoride (SnF2 ) dentifrice to: (1) deposit a SnF2 barrier layer onto pellicle-coated enamel surfaces; (2) increase the intensity of the barrier layer over time; and (3) be retained on the enamel surface for hours after product use.

METHODS

Squares of human enamel were exposed to pooled saliva for 1 hour (pellicle formation) and separated into six sets. Set 1 was treated with the supernatant of a 1:3 slurry of the test dentifrice (Crest(®) Pro-Health(®) : water for 2 minutes), then rinsed. Set 2 was treated in the same manner and then placed into saliva (6 hours). Set 3 was cycled through seven repeated treatments. Set 4 was treated for seven cycles and then placed into saliva (6 hours). Set 5 was a water control, and set 6 was a water control that remained in saliva for 6 hours. Surface analysis of specimens was done using laser ablation Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectroscopy (ICP-MS).

RESULTS

Deposition of a barrier layer was demonstrated, beginning with the initial treatment, with Sn (using isotopes (117) Sn + (120) Sn) measured on the enamel surface as the reference marker. Deposition of the barrier layer was greater after seven cycles, and the retention of this layer was highly significant (P = 0.05, anova: 6 hours).

CONCLUSIONS

This study confirms that: (1) the stabilised SnF2 dentifrice deposits a barrier layer onto the enamel surface, beginning with the first use of the product; (2) this barrier is enhanced following multiple treatments; and (3) the barrier layer is retained on the enamel surface for hours after product use.

Protective effect of the aqueous extract from the root of Platycodon grandiflorum on cholestasis-induced hepatic injury in mice

CONTEXT

The root of Platycodon grandiflorum (Jacq.) A. DC. (Campanulaceae) has been widely studied for its hepatoprotective effects against various hepatotoxicants.

OBJECTIVE

The present study evaluated the protective effect of the standardized aqueous extract of P. grandiflorum (BC703) on cholestasis-induced hepatic injury in mice.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

BC703 is a standardized aqueous extract of P. grandiflorum in reference to platycodin D (at least 0.8%). The mice were allocated into five groups as follows: Sham-operated, bile duct ligation (BDL) alone, and BDL with BC703 (1, 5, and 10 mg/kg BW) treated group. BC703 was given for 3 consecutive days before BDL operation. The animals were sacrificed by CO₂ anesthesia post-24 h of BDL operations.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Serum alanine aminotransferase and serum aspartate aminotransferase increased to 395.2 ± 90.0 and 266.0 ± 45.6 Unit/L in the BDL alone group and decreased with BC703 in a dose-dependent manner. Especially the 10 mg/kg of BC703-treated mice showed a 77% decrease of serum alanine aminotransferase and 56% of aspartate aminotransferase as compared with BDL alone. Decreased antioxidant enzyme levels in BDL alone group were elevated in BC703-treated groups ranging from 7 to 29% for glutathione and from 13 to 25% for superoxide dismutase. BC703 treatment also attenuated malondialdehyde (from 3 to 32%) and nitric oxide levels (from 32 to 50%) as compared with BDL alone. Histopathological studies further confirmed the hepatoprotective effect of BC703 in BDL-induced cholestesis.

CONCLUSION

BC703 could attenuate liver injury by BDL in mice, and test results indicate that BC703 might be useful in cholestatic liver injury.

Uricosuric and nephroprotective properties of Ramulus Mori ethanol extract in hyperuricemic mice

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Ramulus Mori, the branch of Morus alba, is widely used in traditional Chinese medicine prescriptions to treat gout and hyperuricemia.

AIM OF THIS STUDY

To evaluate the uricosuric and nephroprotective effects of ethanol extract of Ramulus Mori (ERM) and explore its possible mechanisms in hyperuricemic mice.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

HPLC analysis was employed to determine the main constituents. Hyperuricemia was induced by potassium oxonate (250 mg/kg) in male mice. ERM (10, 20 and 40 mg/kg) was orally administered to hyperuricemic and normal mice for 7 days. Serum and urine levels of uric acid, creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) were measured. Simultaneously, renal mRNA and protein levels of mouse urate transporter 1 (mURAT1), glucose transporter 9 (mGLUT9), organic anion transporter 1 (mOAT1) and organic cation/carnitine transporters (mOCT1/2, mOCTN1/2) were analyzed by RT-PCR and Western blotting methods.

RESULTS

ERM mainly contained mulberroside A, oxyresveratrol, 4-hydroxycinnamic acid, resveratrol, 7-hydroxycumarin and morin. ERM significantly reduced serum urate levels and increased 24h-urine urate excretion and fractional excretion of uric acid in hyperuricemic mice. It effectively restored oxonate-induced expression alteration of renal mURAT1, mGLUT9 and mOAT1, resulting in urate excretion enhancement. Moreover, ERM decreased serum creatinine and BUN levels and increased creatinine clearance, and up-regulated expression of mOCT1/2 and mOCTN1/2, contributing to kidney function improvement in this model.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that ERM exerts the uricosuric and nephroprotective actions by the regulation of these renal organic ion transporters in hyperuricemic mice, and provide scientific support for the empirical use of Ramulus Mori.

[Study on fingerprint-pharmacology correlation of protective effect of Polygonum orientale on myocardial cell oxidative injury induced by H202]

OBJECTIVE

To study the protective effect of flowers, branch with leaves and main stem of Polygonum orientale on H9c2 myocardial cells oxidative injury induced by H202 and discuss its efficacious substance foundation of anti-myocardial ischemia.

METHOD

UPLC fingerprint was established for flowers, branch with leaves and main stem of P. orientale, and the chromatographic peak was identified. Meanwhile, the protective effect of composites of flowers, branch with leaves and main stem of P. orientale in different proportions on myocardial cells oxidative injury was observed (with MTT method as indicators of concentration screening and cell livability) and MDA were detected. The correlation analysis was made between activity information of composites and chemical information of UPLC fingerprint to infer efficacious substance foundation.

RESULT

Branch with leaves and flowers from Polygonum orientale showed a protective effect on H9c2 myocardial cells oxidative injury. According to the study on spectrum-activity relationship, peak 3-5, 11-14, 18-19, 21-25 showed a positive correlation with their antioxidant activities.

CONCLUSION

This study determined activity of Polygonum orientale on anti-oxidative injury, laying an experimental foundation for in-depth study and development of P. orientale herbs.

Chemical composition and hepatoprotective effects of polyphenol-rich extract from Houttuynia cordata tea

This study was designed to investigate the antioxidant activity, hepatoprotective effect, and phenolic composition of the ethyl acetate fraction (EAF) extracted from Houttuynia cordata tea. EAF was shown to exhibit strong ferric-reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) and scavenging activity against DPPH radical in vitro, and the antioxidant effects were further verified by suppressing CCl₄-induced oxidative stress in mouse liver at three tested doses of EAF (250, 500, and 1000 mg/kg bw). Pretreatment with EAF (1000 mg/kg bw) prior to CCl₄ administration significantly (p < 0.001) decreased the CCl₄-elevated levels of serum AST, ALT, alkaline phosphatase, total bilirubin, and hepatic MDA in mice and prevented the increases in GSH, SOD, and CAT caused by CCl₄. HPLC analysis revealed that three predominantly polyphenolic compounds present in EAF were quercitrin (111.7 μg/mg), quercetin (43.8 μg/mg), and hyperoside (29.1 μg/mg). These results combined with liver histopathology indicate that EAF possesses a significant protective effect against acute hepatotoxicity induced by CCl₄, which may be due to the strong antioxidant activity of phenolic components.

Protection by Salvia extracts against oxidative and alkylation damage to DNA in human HCT15 and CO115 cells

DNA damage induced by oxidative and alkylating agents contributes to carcinogenesis, leading to possible mutations if replication proceeds without proper repair. However, some alkylating agents are used in cancer therapy due to their ability to induce DNA damage and subsequently apoptosis of tumor cells. In this study, the genotoxic effects of oxidative hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) and alkylating agents N-methyl-N-nitrosourea (MNU) and 1,3-bis-(2-chloroethyl)-1-nitosourea (BCNU) agents were examined in two colon cell lines (HCT15 and CO115). DNA damage was assessed by the comet assay with and without lesion-specific repair enzymes. Genotoxic agents were used for induction of DNA damage in both cell lines. Protective effects of extracts of three Salvia species, Salvia officinalis (SO), Salvia fruticosa (SF), and Salvia lavandulifolia (SL), against DNA damage induced by oxidative and alkylating agents were also determined. SO and SF protected against oxidative DNA damage in HCT15 cells. SO and SL decreased DNA damage induced by MNU in CO115 cells. In addition to chemopreventive effects of sage plant extracts, it was also important to know whether these plant extracts may interfere with alkylating agents such as BCNU used in cancer therapy, decreasing their efficacy. Our results showed that sage extracts tested and rosmarinic acid (RA), the main constituent, protected CO115 cells from DNA damage induced by BCNU. In HCT15 cells, only SF induced a reduction in BCNU-induced DNA damage. Sage water extracts and RA did not markedly change DNA repair protein expression in either cell line. Data showed that sage tea protected colon cells against oxidative and alkylating DNA damage and may also interfere with efficacy of alkylating agents used in cancer therapy.

Physicochemical and spectroscopic properties of natural organic matter (NOM) from various sources and implications for ameliorative effects on metal toxicity to aquatic biota

Natural organic matter (NOM), expressed as dissolved organic carbon (DOC in mgCL(-1)), is an ubiquitous complexing agent in natural waters, and is now recognized as an important factor mitigating waterborne metal toxicity. However, the magnitude of the protective effect, judged by toxicity measures (e.g. LC50), varies substantially among different NOM sources even for similar DOC concentrations, implying a potential role of NOM physicochemical properties or quality of NOM. This review summarizes some key quality parameters for NOM samples, obtained by reverse osmosis, and by using correlation analyses, investigates their contribution to ameliorating metal toxicity towards aquatic biota. At comparable and environmentally realistic DOC levels, molecular spectroscopic characteristics (specific absorbance coefficient, SAC, and fluorescence index, FI) as well as concentrations of fluorescent fractions obtained from mathematical mixture resolution techniques (PARAFAC), explain considerable variability in the protective effects. NOM quality clearly influences the toxicity of copper (Cu) and lead (Pb). NOM quality may also influence the toxicity of silver (Ag), cadmium (Cd) and inorganic mercury (Hg), but as yet insufficient data are available to unequivocally support the latter correlations between toxicity reduction and NOM quality predictors. Cu binding capacities, protein-to-carbohydrate ratio, and lipophilicity, show insignificant correlation to the amelioration offered by NOMs, but these conclusions are based on data for Norwegian NOMs with very narrow ranges for the latter two parameters. Certainly, various NOMs alleviate metal toxicity differentially and therefore their quality measures should be considered in addition to their quantity.

[Screening effective parts of combination of Astragali Radix and Angelicae Sinensis Radix (A&A) for its renoprotective effects]

OBJECTIVE

The decoction of Astragali Radix and Angelicae Sinensis Radix (A&A) has shown antifibrotic effects in rats with unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO). The aim of this study was to track the effective parts of A&A for its renoprotective effects, according to the improvement of renal function and renal tubulointerstitial damage.

METHOD

A&A was sequentially extracted by using different solvents for three times and eleven different parts were gained. Wistar rats were randomly divided into Sham, UUO and the treatment groups with A&A or each part of A&A. After administration of A&A or its parts for 10 days, the levels of serum creatinin (Scr) and urea were measured. The morphological changes of kidneys were also semi-quantitatively analyzed by HE, Masson stained tissue sections, which including interstitial cell infiltration, tubular atrophy and interstitial fibrosis.

RESULT

The levels of Scr, urea were significantly increased, accompanied with severe renal damage in rats with UUO. As same as A&A, the part I in the first extraction and part IC in the second extraction were all shown to decrease the levels of Scr and urea and the index of renal interstitial damage. However, the following 4 parts extracted from IC in the third extraction were shown no effect on the above indexes.

CONCLUSION

The extract part I and part IC could be considered as the predominant parts of A&A for its renoprotective effects, due to their improvement of renal damage in interstitial nephropathy.

[Effectiveness of new preventive means for maintaining the functional state of organism in air operators]

The study was designed to assess the psycho-physiological and immune status in 60 male aviation specialists aged 24-45 years given biologically active food additives "Intra" and "Adaptol" It was shown that regular consumption of these additives promoted mobilization of functional reserves of the organism, improved time-related activity of nervous processes, increased lability of the central part of the visual analyzer, and improved results of subjective assessment of postural equilibrium control. Results of the study indicate that food additives "Intra", "Adaptol" possess immunocorrective potential and may be used to restore functions of various organs and their systems in a human operator under extreme conditions.

Evaluation of hepatoprotective effect of Zhi-Zi-Da-Huang decoction and its two fractions against acute alcohol-induced liver injury in rats

AIM OF THE STUDY

To investigate the hepatoprotective effect of Zhi-Zi-Da-Huang decoction (ZZDHD) and its two fractions (one is extracted with diethyl ether as a solvent from the water extract and is called ZD-DE for short, the other is the remained aqueous fraction after extracted with diethyl ether and is abbreviated as ZD-AQ) against acute alcohol-induced liver injury in rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Animals were administered orally with alcohol 6g/kg at 2h after the doses of ZZDHD and two fractions everyday for eight consecutive days except rats in normal group. The protective effect was evaluated by biochemical parameters including aspartate transaminase (AST), alanine transferase (ALT), reduced glutathione (GSH), malondialdehyde (MDA) and superoxide dismutase (SOD). The biochemical observations were supplemented by histopathological examination. HPLC-UV was used for phytochemical analysis of the ZZDHD and its two fractions.

RESULTS

The high dose of ZZDHD exhibited a significant protective effect by reversing the biochemical parameters and histopathological changes. ZD-DE and ZD-AQ demonstrated different protective action in biochemical examination. Partly assayed indexes were ameliorated after administrated the media dose of ZZDHD. HPLC analysis indicated that ZZDHD contained flavonoids, anthraquinones and iridoids, which might be the active chemicals.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrated the hepatoprotective activity of ZZDHD thus scientifically supported the usage of this formula.

Biological and medicinal properties of grapes and their bioactive constituents: an update

The grape is one of the most valued conventional fruits, worldwide. Although most of the parts of the grapevine are useful, primarily, the grape is considered as a source of unique natural products not only for the development of valuable medicines against a number of diseases, but also for manufacturing various industrial products. Over the last few decades, apart from the chemistry of grape compounds, considerable progress has been made towards exploring the biological activities of various grape-derived constituents. Today, it is well established that in addition to serving as food, the grape is a major source of several phytochemicals. The main biologically active and well-characterized constituent from the grape is resveratrol, which is known for various medicinal properties in human diseases. This review discusses the roles of various grape-derived phytochemicals in relation to various diseases.

Efficient protection by cationized catalase against H2O2 injury in primary cultured alveolar epithelial cells

Increasing evidence suggests that hydrogen peroxide plays an important role in alveolar epithelial injury produced during many inflammatory lung diseases. In this study, the successful prevention of hydrogen peroxide (H(2)O(2))-induced injury in primary cultured rabbit alveolar epithelial cells by cationized catalase is described. Cationized catalase was synthesized by direct chemical modification to enhance its association with alveolar epithelial cells. Cationized catalase exhibited a 22.3-fold higher cellular association at 2 h than native catalase, and incubation of cationized catalase with the cells produced a 2.19-fold intracellular catalase activity, which suggested that cationized catalase distributed both to the cell membrane and into the cell interior. Cationized catalase markedly suppressed H(2)O(2)-induced cell injury. In addition, electron spin resonance spectrometry analysis revealed that cationized catalase effectively eliminated H(2)O(2) produced in the medium by glucose plus glucose oxidase. On the other hand, polyethylene glycol-modified catalase (PEG-catalase) did not have any protective effect against H(2)O(2)-induced cell injury although PEG-catalase exhibited a 2.49-fold higher cellular association at 2 h than native catalase. These results suggest that cationization of catalase is a promising strategy for the treatment of many of inflammatory lung diseases.

Oenology: red wine procyanidins and vascular health

Regular, moderate consumption of red wine is linked to a reduced risk of coronary heart disease and to lower overall mortality, but the relative contribution of wine's alcohol and polyphenol components to these effects is unclear. Here we identify procyanidins as the principal vasoactive polyphenols in red wine and show that they are present at higher concentrations in wines from areas of southwestern France and Sardinia, where traditional production methods ensure that these compounds are efficiently extracted during vinification. These regions also happen to be associated with increased longevity in the population.

Quantification of mesna and total mesna in kidney tissue by high-performance liquid chromatography with electrochemical detection

A sensitive and selective assay for the determination of mesna and total mesna in tissue was developed and validated. After a simple homogenization, extraction and deproteinization step, mesna could be measured immediately by HPLC with an electrochemical detector provided with a sensitive wall-jet gold electrode. Total mesna (i.e., free mesna and mesna present in mesna disulfides and mixed mesna disulfides) could be measured after pre-column reduction with sodium borohydride to free mesna. The lower limit of quantification of mesna and total mesna was for both compounds 10 nmol/g. The assays for mesna and total mesna in tissue were linear over the ranges of 10-3000 and 10-10000 nmol/g, respectively. The within-day and between-day precisions of both methods were better than 9%. The within-day and between-day accuracy of the mesna assay ranged from 103.7 to 113.6%, whereas the accuracies of the total mesna assay ranged from 97.8 to 106.7%. Mesna in an EDTA containing tissue homogenate or in deproteinized tissue homogenate stored at -80 degrees C was stable for at least 12 weeks. Total mesna was stable under all conditions measured. The developed assays will be applied for the determination of the distribution of mesna and total mesna in tissues of the rat after administration of mesna or BNP7787.

Analysis and stability of the candidate sulfur mustard decontaminant S-330

The chloroamide compound 1,3,4,6-tetrachloro-7,8-diphenyl-2, 5-diiminoglycoluril (S-330) was found to be a strong reactant in dermal formulations for the decontamination of sulfur mustard (HD). In this report, we present analytical methodologies applicable to the characterization, purity determination and quantitation of S-330 in bulk material or formulations. High-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) coupled with atmospheric pressure chemical ionization (APCI) interface or ultraviolet detector and nuclear magnetic spectroscopy (NMR) were used to identify and characterize S-330 and impurities in the synthetic lots or degradation products in formulations. Bulk synthesis using a chlorination process has yielded a product of 90% purity. The major impurity has been separated and identified structurally as the trichloro analog of S-330. Higher purity S-330 can be made using column chromatography, but this does not appear to be economical for large-scale production. Factors affecting the stability of S-330 in topical formulations include water content, pH, alcohols and UV light. Chloroamide S-330 decomposes at 50-60 degrees C and is not amenable for GC analysis. The HPLC technique is superior to NMR or active chlorine assay in the purity determination for S-330 in bulk material or formulations. In topical formulations containing S-330, 5-10% of water can be tolerated, but alcohols and acidic and basic conditions should be avoided.

Determination of a chemoprotective agent, 2-(allylthio)pyrazine, in plasma, urine and tissue homogenates by high-performance liquid chromatography

A high-performance liquid chromatographic method was developed for the determination of a chemoprotective agent, 2-(allylthio)pyrazine (I), in human plasma and urine, and in rat blood and tissue homogenate using diazepam as an internal standard. The sample preparation was simple; 2.5 volumes of acetonitrile were added to the biological sample to deproteinize it. A 50-100 microl aliquot of the supernatant was injected onto a C18 reversed-phase column. The mobile phase employed was acetonitrile-water (55:45, v/v), and it was run at a flow-rate of 1.5 ml/min. The column effluent was monitored using an ultraviolet detector at 330 nm. The retention times for I and the internal standard were 4.0 and 5.1 min, respectively. The detection limits of I in human plasma and urine, and in rat tissue homogenate (including blood) were 20, 20 and 50 ng/ml, respectively. The coefficients of variation of the assay (within-day and between-day) were generally low (below 6.1%) in a concentration range from 0.02 to 10 microg/ml for human plasma and urine, and for rat tissue homogenate. No interferences from endogenous substances were found.