greenmedinfo--2020-05-12--Arctigenin exhibits hepatoprotective activity in Toxoplasma gondii-infected host through HMGB1/TLR4/

Arctigenin exhibits hepatoprotective activity in Toxoplasma gondii-infected host through HMGB1/TLR4/NF-κB pathway.

Toxoplasmosis is a parasitic zoonosis with the highest incidence in humans .
Severe lesions due to acute toxoplasmosis have been recorded in the visceral organs including the liver , where hepatocytes and Kupffer cells are important innate immune cells .
Arctigenin ( AG ) is a bioactive ingredient of Arctium lappa L. and increasing evidence suggests that AG exhibits anti-oxidant , anti-inflammatory and anti-Toxoplasma gondii ( T. gondii ) effects .
However , the role of AG in acute liver damage induced by T. gondii infection remains unclear .
In this study , we analyzed the effects of AG against @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in vitro infection model using a murine liver cell line ( NCTC-1469 cells ) and an in vivo mouse model with acute T. gondii infection of virulent RH strain .
In the current study , AG effectively attenuated hepatocytes apoptosis and inhibited the reproduction of T. gondii .
The results of in vitro and in vivo studies showed that AG significantly reduced alanine aminotransferase/aspartate aminotransferase activities and lessened pathological damage of liver .
Moreover , AG suppressed T. gondii-induced inducible nitric oxide synthase production .
AG also attenuated liver inflammation by inhibiting T. @ @ @ @ @ @ @ receptor 4/nuclear factor-kappa B ( HMGB1/TLR4/NF-κB ) signaling pathway .
These findings demonstrated that AG exhibited prominent hepatoprotective activities in toxoplasmic liver injury with anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting the HMGB1/TLR4/NF-κB signaling axis .
Thus , this study provides the basis for the development of new drugs to treat toxoplasmic hepatitis .

Toxoplasmosis is a parasitic zoonosis with the highest incidence in humans. Severe lesions due to acute toxoplasmosis have been recorded in the visceral organs including the liver, where hepatocytes and Kupffer cells are important innate immune cells. Arctigenin (AG) is a bioactive ingredient of Arctium lappa L. and increasing evidence suggests that AG exhibits anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) effects. However, the role of AG in acute liver damage induced by T. gondii infection remains unclear. In this study, we analyzed the effects of AG against T. gondii-induced liver damage by establishing an in vitro infection model using a murine liver cell line (NCTC-1469 cells) and an in vivo mouse model with acute T. gondii infection of virulent RH strain. In the current study, AG effectively attenuated hepatocytes apoptosis and inhibited the reproduction of T. gondii. The results of in vitro and in vivo studies showed that AG significantly reduced alanine aminotransferase/aspartate aminotransferase activities and lessened pathological damage of liver. Moreover, AG suppressed T. gondii-induced inducible nitric oxide synthase production. AG also attenuated liver inflammation by inhibiting T. gondii-induced activation of the high-mobility group box1/toll-like receptor 4/nuclear factor-kappa B (HMGB1/TLR4/NF-κB) signaling pathway. These findings demonstrated that AG exhibited prominent hepatoprotective activities in toxoplasmic liver injury with anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting the HMGB1/TLR4/NF-κB signaling axis. Thus, this study provides the basis for the development of new drugs to treat toxoplasmic hepatitis.


greenmedinfo--2020-05-12--Both EGCG and green tea could be used as alternatives to chlorhexidine-based mouthwashes.

OBJECTIVE : This study was conducted to evaluate and compare the antimicrobial efficacy of green tea and its extract epigallocatechin-3-gallate ( EGCG ) as a mouthwash in children .
DESIGN : The study group included 47 children aged 5-12 years at high caries risk and prevalence .
Children selected were asked to rinse with one of the substances ( EGCG , green tea , chlorhexidine and distilled water ) for one min .
A non-stimulated salivary sample ( 2 mL ) was collected at baseline and after rinsing .
The concentration of cariogenic microorganisms ( mutans streptococci and lactobacilli ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on the count of colony-forming units ( CFU ) .
CFU were counted with the aid of a stereomicroscope through the perfunctory identification of the morphological characteristics of CFU .
The microbial reduction percentage was then calculated .
RESULTS : The analysis of the effectiveness of the treatments showed that there was a significant reduction in relation to the values obtained before and after the mouthwash , both for mutans streptococci ( pCHX = 0.001 ; pEGCG = 0.001 ; pGreen Tea = 0.005 ; pDistilled Water = 0.018 ) and lactobacilli ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ; pGreen Tea = 0.008 ; pDistilled Water = 0.033 ) .
The percentage of microbial reduction of both cariogenic microorganisms caused by the EGCG solution washigher than green tea and distilled water , but less than CHX .
The percentage of microbial reduction by the EGCG solution for mutans streptococci was 79.9 % , green tea 68.3 % , distilled water 50.6 % and CHX 95.5 % .
For lactobacilli , the percentage reduction of all solutions was relatively lower when compared to mutans streptococci .
For the EGCG solution it was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 59.17 % and distilled water 41.96 % , but less than CHX 86.02 % .
CONCLUSION : Rinsing with EGCG solution reduced the levels of mutans streptococci and lactobacilli in the oral cavity of children .
Although EGCG had better antimicrobial activity than green tea , this study supports the effectiveness of both as an antibacterial mouthwash option .
Both EGCG and green tea could be used as alternatives to chlorhexidine-based mouthwashes .

OBJECTIVE: This study was conducted to evaluate and compare the antimicrobial efficacy of green tea and its extract epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) as a mouthwash in children.
DESIGN: The study group included 47 children aged 5-12 years at high caries risk and prevalence. Children selected were asked to rinse with one of the substances (EGCG, green tea, chlorhexidine and distilled water) for one min. A non-stimulated salivary sample (2 mL) was collected at baseline and after rinsing. The concentration of cariogenic microorganisms (mutans streptococci and lactobacilli) was determined before and after rinsing based on the count of colony-forming units (CFU). CFU were counted with the aid of a stereomicroscope through the perfunctory identification of the morphological characteristics of CFU. The microbial reduction percentage was then calculated.
RESULTS: The analysis of the effectiveness of the treatments showed that there was a significant reduction in relation to the values obtained before and after the mouthwash, both for mutans streptococci (pCHX = 0.001; pEGCG = 0.001; pGreen Tea = 0.005; pDistilled Water = 0.018) and lactobacilli (pCHX = 0.001; pEGCG = 0.002; pGreen Tea = 0.008; pDistilled Water = 0.033). The percentage of microbial reduction of both cariogenic microorganisms caused by the EGCG solution washigher than green tea and distilled water, but less than CHX. The percentage of microbial reduction by the EGCG solution for mutans streptococci was 79.9%, green tea 68.3%, distilled water 50.6% and CHX 95.5%. For lactobacilli, the percentage reduction of all solutions was relatively lower when compared to mutans streptococci. For the EGCG solution it was 72.09%, followed by green tea 59.17% and distilled water 41.96%, but less than CHX 86.02%.
CONCLUSION: Rinsing with EGCG solution reduced the levels of mutans streptococci and lactobacilli in the oral cavity of children. Although EGCG had better antimicrobial activity than green tea, this study supports the effectiveness of both as an antibacterial mouthwash option. Both EGCG and green tea could be used as alternatives to chlorhexidine-based mouthwashes.


greenmedinfo--2020-05-12--Tanshinone ⅡA inhibits VSMC inflammation and proliferation in vivo and in vitro by downregulating mi

Tanshinone ⅡA inhibits VSMC inflammation and proliferation in vivo and in vitro by downregulating miR-712-5p expression.

The inflammation and proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells ( VSMCs ) are the basic pathological feature of proliferative vascular diseases .
TanshinoneⅡA ( Tan ⅡA ) , which is the most abundant fat-soluble element extracted from Salvia miltiorrhiza , has potent protective effects on the cardiovascular system .
However , the underlying mechanism is still not fully understood .
Here , we show that Tan ⅡA significantly inhibits neointimal formation anddecreases VSMC inflammation by upregulating the expression of KLF4 and inhibiting the activation of NFκB signaling .
Using a microRNA array analysis , we found that miR-712-5p expression is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( TNF-α ) -treated VSMCs .
Loss- and gain-of-function experiments revealed that transfection of miR-712-5p mimic promotes , whereas depletion of miR-712-5p suppresses TNF-α-induced VSMC inflammation , leading to amelioration of intimal hyperplasia induced by carotid artery ligation .
Moreover , depletion of miR-712-5p by its antagomir largely abrogates TNF-α-induced VSMC proliferation .
Our findings suggest that miR-712-5p mediates the stimulatory effect of TNF-α on VSMC inflammation , and that Tan ⅡA inhibits VSMC inflammation and proliferation in vivo and in vitro by suppression of miR-712-5p expression .
Targeting miR-712-5p may be a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ diseases .

The inflammation and proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) are the basic pathological feature of proliferative vascular diseases. TanshinoneⅡA (Tan ⅡA), which is the most abundant fat-soluble element extracted from Salvia miltiorrhiza, has potent protective effects on the cardiovascular system. However, the underlying mechanism is still not fully understood. Here, we show that Tan ⅡA significantly inhibits neointimal formation anddecreases VSMC inflammation by upregulating the expression of KLF4 and inhibiting the activation of NFκB signaling. Using a microRNA array analysis, we found that miR-712-5p expression is significantly upregulated in tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α)-treated VSMCs. Loss- and gain-of-function experiments revealed that transfection of miR-712-5p mimic promotes, whereas depletion of miR-712-5p suppresses TNF-α-induced VSMC inflammation, leading to amelioration of intimal hyperplasia induced by carotid artery ligation. Moreover, depletion of miR-712-5p by its antagomir largely abrogates TNF-α-induced VSMC proliferation. Our findings suggest that miR-712-5p mediates the stimulatory effect of TNF-α on VSMC inflammation, and that Tan ⅡA inhibits VSMC inflammation and proliferation in vivo and in vitro by suppression of miR-712-5p expression. Targeting miR-712-5p may be a novel therapeutic strategy to prevent proliferative vascular diseases.


greenmedinfo--2020-05-12--Dandelion polysaccharide is a promising anti-cancer drug candidate for treating liver cancer.

Recent studies have revealed that natural plants-derived polysaccharides exhibit potent anti-tumor activity .
Our earlier studies suggest that dandelion polysaccharide ( DP ) inhibits hepatocellular carcinoma ( HCC ) cell proliferationand .
Here , we investigated the effects of DP on the angiogenesis of HCC and the potential molecular mechanisms by which DP regulates angiogenesis .
Wound-healing and transwell invasion assays revealed that DP inhibited HUVECs migration and invasion , respectively .
Tube formation assay , chick chorioallantoic membrane ( CAM ) assay , and immunohistochemistry ( IHC ) demonstrated that DP suppressed vasculogenesisand .
Moreover , Western blot and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the protein levels of some key factors involved in angiogenesis of HCC , such as hypoxia-inducible factor 1α ( HIF-1α ) , vascular endothelial growth factor ( VEGF ) , p-PI3K , and p-AKT .
However , activation of PI3K/AKT pathway with insulin-like growth factor 1 ( IGF-1 ) treatment attenuated the effect of DP on angiogenesislowering the expression of HIF-1α and VEGF .
In summary , we found that DP treatment inhibited angiogenesisandthrough suppressing expression of VEGF and HIF-1a .
Furthermore , we showed that the expression of VEGF and HIF1-α was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our study suggests that DP is a promising anti-cancer drug candidate for treating HCC .

Recent studies have revealed that natural plants-derived polysaccharides exhibit potent anti-tumor activity. Our earlier studies suggest that dandelion polysaccharide (DP) inhibits hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cell proliferationand. Here, we investigated the effects of DP on the angiogenesis of HCC and the potential molecular mechanisms by which DP regulates angiogenesis. Wound-healing and transwell invasion assays revealed that DP inhibited HUVECs migration and invasion, respectively. Tube formation assay, chick chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) assay, and immunohistochemistry (IHC) demonstrated that DP suppressed vasculogenesisand. Moreover, Western blot and immunofluorescence staining verified that DP treatment decreased the protein levels of some key factors involved in angiogenesis of HCC, such as hypoxia-inducible factor 1α (HIF-1α), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), p-PI3K, and p-AKT. However, activation of PI3K/AKT pathway with insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) treatment attenuated the effect of DP on angiogenesislowering the expression of HIF-1α and VEGF. In summary, we found that DP treatment inhibited angiogenesisandthrough suppressing expression of VEGF and HIF-1a. Furthermore, we showed that the expression of VEGF and HIF1-α was modulated by PI3K/AKT signaling. Collectively, our study suggests that DP is a promising anti-cancer drug candidate for treating HCC.


greenmedinfo--2020-05-12--The results of present meta-analysis study support the use of green tea for the improvement of obesi

The results of present meta-analysis study support the use of green tea for the improvement of obesity indices.

The effects of green tea ( GT ) in obese subjects have been evaluated in different studies , but no consensus has been obtained due to the heterogeneity of the results .
The dosage , the type of extract , and the duration of the intervention are the main contributors to the heterogeneity of the results .
Therefore , the present systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the efficacy and dose-response relationship of GT .
Several databases were searched from inception to September 2019 to identify clinical trials that examined the influence of GT supplements on obesity indices in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ model indicated that body weight ( WMD : -1.78 kg , 95 % CI : -2.80 , -0.75 , p = .001 ) and body mass index ( BMI ) ( WMD : -0.65 kg/m , 95 % CI : -1.04 , -0.25 , p = .001 ) did change significantly following GT administration .
The reduction in waist circumference ( WC ) after GT consumption was significant in subjects in trials employing GT ≥800 mg/day ( WMD : -2.06 cm ) and with a treatment duration < 12 weeks ( WMD : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ evaluation , GT intake did alter body weight , with a more important reduction when the GT dosage was < 500 mg/day and the treatment duration was of 12 weeks .
The results of present meta-analysis study support the use of GT for the improvement of obesity indices .
Thus , we suggest that the use of GT can be combined with a balanced and healthy diet and regular physical exercise in the management of obese patients .

The effects of green tea (GT) in obese subjects have been evaluated in different studies, but no consensus has been obtained due to the heterogeneity of the results. The dosage, the type of extract, and the duration of the intervention are the main contributors to the heterogeneity of the results. Therefore, the present systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the efficacy and dose-response relationship of GT. Several databases were searched from inception to September 2019 to identify clinical trials that examined the influence of GT supplements on obesity indices in humans. Combined results using the random-effects model indicated that body weight (WMD: -1.78 kg, 95% CI: -2.80, -0.75, p = .001) and body mass index (BMI) (WMD: -0.65 kg/m, 95% CI: -1.04, -0.25, p = .001) did change significantly following GT administration. The reduction in waist circumference (WC) after GT consumption was significant in subjects in trials employing GT ≥800 mg/day (WMD: -2.06 cm) and with a treatment duration<12 weeks (WMD: -2.39 cm). Following the dose-response evaluation, GT intake did alter body weight, with a more important reduction when the GT dosage was<500 mg/day and the treatment duration was of 12 weeks. The results of present meta-analysis study support the use of GT for the improvement of obesity indices. Thus, we suggest that the use of GT can be combined with a balanced and healthy diet and regular physical exercise in the management of obese patients.


greenmedinfo--2020-05-12--Evaluation of daily Laurus nobilis tea consumption on lipid profile biomarkers in healthy volunteers

Evaluation of daily Laurus nobilis tea consumption on lipid profile biomarkers in healthy volunteers.

is known in the field of herbal medicine andstudies that it has beneficial effects such as antibacterial , antifungal , @ @ @ @ @ investigated whethertea consumption affects the plasma levels of lipid biomarkers in healthy volunteers.Thirty healthy Tunisian @ @ @ @ @ 57 years old consumedinfusion , prepared from 5 g of driedleaves in 100 ml boiled @ @ @ @ @ during 10 days .
Plasma concentrations of serum low-density lipoprotein ( LDL ) cholesterol , @ @ @ @ @ lipoprotein ) cholesterol were measured by Beckman Coulter D × 600 analyzer beforeconsumption and at @ @ @ @ @ consumption significantly increased the concentration of HDL cholesterol ( [ HDL cholesterol ] = 1.34 @ @ @ @ @ ± 0.29 , = 0.01 ) .
However , a slight decrease that was statistically @ @ @ @ @ triglycerides levels was observed (

is known in the field of herbal medicine andstudies that it has beneficial effects such as antibacterial, antifungal, antidiabetes, and anti-inflammatory properties.We investigated whethertea consumption affects the plasma levels of lipid biomarkers in healthy volunteers.Thirty healthy Tunisian volunteers aged between 20 and 57 years old consumedinfusion, prepared from 5 g of driedleaves in 100 ml boiled water, once a day during 10 days. Plasma concentrations of serum low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, triglycerides and HDL (high-density lipoprotein) cholesterol were measured by Beckman Coulter D × 600 analyzer beforeconsumption and at the end of the experiment.tea consumption significantly increased the concentration of HDL cholesterol ([HDL cholesterol]= 1.34 ± 0.25 pg/mL,=1.42 ± 0.29, = 0.01). However, a slight decrease that was statistically non-significant in LDL cholesterol and triglycerides levels was observed ( < 0.05).These findings highlight the improving blood lipidic profiles, which means a possible positive effect on reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease oftea consumption in healthy volunteers. However, more powerful studies with an extended treatment period are required.


greenmedinfo--2020-05-12--Anti-inflammatory activity of alkali-soluble polysaccharides from Arctium lappa L. and its effect on

Anti-inflammatory activity of alkali-soluble polysaccharides from Arctium lappa L. and its effect on gut microbiota of mice with inflammation.

In this study , an alkali-soluble polysaccharide ( ASALP ) from Arctium lappa L. were extracted and purified .
Our results indicated that ASALP was a homogeneous polysaccharide with a molecular weight of 1.2 × 10 Da composed of rhamnose , arabinose , xylose , glucose and galactose in a molar ratio of 1.2 : 4.4 : 0.9 : 0.9 : 2.6 .
The structure characterization indicated that ASALP was mainly consisted of →5-α-L-Araf- ( 1 → backbone and α-Araf- ( 1→ , →2 ) -α-Rhap- ( 1 → T-Glcp- ( 1→ , →3 ) -β-D-Xylp- ( 1 → 4 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ In vitro and in vivo assay showed that ASALP could effectively alleviate inflammation by improving the dysregulation of pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines .
Specifically , ASALP significantly inhibited the production of nitric oxide ( NO ) and pro-inflammatory cytokines ( IL-6 , IL-1β and TNF-α ) in lipopolysaccharide ( LPS ) -treated macrophages and in the serum of inflammatory mice , but increased the production of the anti-inflammatory cytokines IL-10 .
The results from 16S rRNA ( V3-V4 ) amplicon sequencing showed that the relative abundance of Firmicutes , Alistipes , Odoribacter and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ASALP treatment .
Lower levels of Proteobacteria , Staphylococcus and Bacteroidetes were detected in LPS + ASALP treatment group .
ASALP alleviated inflammation by improving the reduction of microbial diversity and affecting the composition of the gut microbiota .
Our study could provide the basis for the subsequent research and application of ASALP .

In this study, an alkali-soluble polysaccharide (ASALP) from Arctium lappa L. were extracted and purified. Our results indicated that ASALP was a homogeneous polysaccharide with a molecular weight of 1.2 × 10 Da composed of rhamnose, arabinose, xylose, glucose and galactose in a molar ratio of 1.2: 4.4: 0.9: 0.9: 2.6. The structure characterization indicated that ASALP was mainly consisted of →5-α-L-Araf-(1 → backbone and α-Araf-(1→,→2)-α-Rhap-(1 → T-Glcp-(1→, →3)-β-D-Xylp-(1 → 4)-α-GalpA-(1 → branches. In vitro and in vivo assay showed that ASALP could effectively alleviate inflammation by improving the dysregulation of pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines. Specifically, ASALP significantly inhibited the production of nitric oxide (NO) and pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, IL-1β and TNF-α) in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-treated macrophages and in the serum of inflammatory mice, but increased the production of the anti-inflammatory cytokines IL-10. The results from 16S rRNA (V3-V4) amplicon sequencing showed that the relative abundance of Firmicutes, Alistipes, Odoribacter and Lactobacillus in mice was significantly increased after ASALP treatment. Lower levels of Proteobacteria, Staphylococcus and Bacteroidetes were detected in LPS + ASALP treatment group. ASALP alleviated inflammation by improving the reduction of microbial diversity and affecting the composition of the gut microbiota. Our study could provide the basis for the subsequent research and application of ASALP.


greenmedinfo--2020-05-12--NOTICE of NON-CONSENT to say NO to the "Big Brother" bill (HR 6666) and preserve YOUR RIGHTS!

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By providing the information contained herein we are not diagnosing , treating @ @ @ @ @ or preventing any type of disease or medical condition .
Before beginning any type of @ @ @ @ @ treatment regimen , it is advisable to seek the advice of a licensed healthcare professional @

This website is for information purposes only. By providing the information contained herein we are not diagnosing, treating, curing, mitigating, or preventing any type of disease or medical condition. Before beginning any type of natural, integrative or conventional treatment regimen, it is advisable to seek the advice of a licensed healthcare professional.
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greenmedinfo--2020-05-12--Arctium lappa could be considered a potentially valuable medicinal food for dry age-related macular

Arctium lappa could be considered a potentially valuable medicinal food for dry age-related macular degeneration.

Age-related macular degeneration ( AMD ) is a major cause of irreversible loss of vision with 80-90 % of patients demonstrating dry type AMD .
Dry AMD could possibly be prevented by polyphenol-rich medicinal foods by the inhibition of N-retinylidene-N-retinylethanolamine ( A2E ) -induced oxidative stress and cell damage .
( AL ) leaves are medicinal and have antioxidant activity .
The purpose of this study was to elucidate the protective effects of the extract of AL leaves ( ALE ) on dry AMD models , including in vitro A2E-induced damage in ARPE-19 cells , a human retinal pigment epithelial @ @ @ @ @ @ @ retinal damage in BALB/c mice .
According to the total phenolic contents ( TPCs ) , total flavonoid contents ( TFCs ) and antioxidant activities , ALE was rich in polyphenols and had antioxidant efficacies on 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl ( DPPH ) , 2,2'-azino-bis ( 3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid ) ( ABTS ) , ferric reducing antioxidant power ( FRAP ) , and 2',7'-dichlorofluorescin diacetate ( DCFDA ) assays .
The effects of ALE on A2E accumulation and A2E-induced cell death were also monitored .
Despite continued exposure to A2E ( 10μM ) , ALE attenuated A2E @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to lutein .
A2E-induced cell death at high concentration ( 25 μM ) was also suppressed by ALE by inhibiting the apoptotic signaling pathway .
Furthermore , ALE could protect the outer nuclear layer ( ONL ) in the retina from light-induced AMD in BALB/c mice .
In conclusion , ALE could be considered a potentially valuable medicinal food for dry AMD .

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a major cause of irreversible loss of vision with 80-90% of patients demonstrating dry type AMD. Dry AMD could possibly be prevented by polyphenol-rich medicinal foods by the inhibition of N-retinylidene-N-retinylethanolamine (A2E)-induced oxidative stress and cell damage.(AL) leaves are medicinal and have antioxidant activity. The purpose of this study was to elucidate the protective effects of the extract of AL leaves (ALE) on dry AMD models, including in vitro A2E-induced damage in ARPE-19 cells, a human retinal pigment epithelial cell line, and in vivo light-induced retinal damage in BALB/c mice. According to the total phenolic contents (TPCs), total flavonoid contents (TFCs) and antioxidant activities, ALE was rich in polyphenols and had antioxidant efficacies on 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), 2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS), ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), and 2',7'-dichlorofluorescin diacetate (DCFDA) assays. The effects of ALE on A2E accumulation and A2E-induced cell death were also monitored. Despite continued exposure to A2E (10μM), ALE attenuated A2E accumulation in APRE-19 cells with levels similar to lutein. A2E-induced cell death at high concentration (25 μM) was also suppressed by ALE by inhibiting the apoptotic signaling pathway. Furthermore, ALE could protect the outer nuclear layer (ONL) in the retina from light-induced AMD in BALB/c mice. In conclusion, ALE could be considered a potentially valuable medicinal food for dry AMD.


greenmedinfo--2020-05-12--Anti-acne action of peptides isolated from burdock root-preliminary studies and pilot testing.

This work aimed to study the anti-bacterial , anti-biofilm and anti-oxidant potential effects of low molecular weight ( LMW ) peptides ( Br-p ) isolated from burdock ( ) roots .
We conducted a preliminary study to exclude or confirm the antibiotic activity of the LMW peptides fraction of this plant .
Br-p were isolated using gel filtration and a 10 kDa cut-off membrane .
The obtained peptides were identified by MALDI TOF/TOF .
Antibacterial activity was tested against acne strains using diffusion tests , MIC and MBC .
The fibroblast cytotoxicity of Br-p was tested , and the selectivity @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The fraction of 46 Br-p peptides isolated from burdock root with a molecular weight below 5000 Da and theoretic pI ( isoelectric point ) of 3.67-11.83 showed a narrow spectrum of activity against Gram-positive acne bacterial strains .
One of the Br-p peptides assessed on MALDI RapidDeNovo was LRCDYGRFFASKSLYDPLKKRR cationic peptide .
It was analogous to that contained inprotein , and theoretically it was matched as a peptide with antibiotic nature .
Br-p did not show toxicity to fibroblasts in the tested concentration up to 10 mg/mL , obtaining CC10 mg/mL .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ from 160 to 320 .
Finally , an active dressing based on chitosan/alginate/genipin was prepared using freeze-drying .
The formed dressing was evaluated for its anti-acne activity .
To sum up : preliminary biological studies confirmed the anti-acne properties of the isolated peptide fraction from burdock root and pointed to the possibility of using it to create an active dressing on the skin .

This work aimed to study the anti-bacterial, anti-biofilm and anti-oxidant potential effects of low molecular weight (LMW) peptides (Br-p) isolated from burdock () roots. We conducted a preliminary study to exclude or confirm the antibiotic activity of the LMW peptides fraction of this plant. Br-p were isolated using gel filtration and a 10 kDa cut-off membrane. The obtained peptides were identified by MALDI TOF/TOF. Antibacterial activity was tested against acne strains using diffusion tests, MIC and MBC. The fibroblast cytotoxicity of Br-p was tested, and the selectivity index (SI) value was determined. The fraction of 46 Br-p peptides isolated from burdock root with a molecular weight below 5000 Da and theoretic pI (isoelectric point) of 3.67-11.83 showed a narrow spectrum of activity against Gram-positive acne bacterial strains. One of the Br-p peptides assessed on MALDI RapidDeNovo was LRCDYGRFFASKSLYDPLKKRR cationic peptide. It was analogous to that contained inprotein, and theoretically it was matched as a peptide with antibiotic nature. Br-p did not show toxicity to fibroblasts in the tested concentration up to 10 mg/mL, obtaining CC10 mg/mL. The SI value for the testedstrains ranged from 160 to 320. Finally, an active dressing based on chitosan/alginate/genipin was prepared using freeze-drying. The formed dressing was evaluated for its anti-acne activity. To sum up: preliminary biological studies confirmed the anti-acne properties of the isolated peptide fraction from burdock root and pointed to the possibility of using it to create an active dressing on the skin.


greenmedinfo--2020-05-12--Arctium lappa root extract containing L-arginine prevents TNF-α-induced early atherosclerosis in vit

Arctium lappa root extract containing L-arginine prevents TNF-α-induced early atherosclerosis in vitro and in vivo.

Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease affecting the aorta and is a major cause of cardiovascular disease .
Arctium lappa root is a plant widely used in traditional Chinese medicine ( TCM ) , and Arctium lappa root extract ( ALE ) has been reported to exhibit anti-inflammatory capacity and to ameliorate endothelial dysfunction .
Thus , we hypothesized that ALE would inhibit the early atherosclerotic stage .
In this study , we evaluated the inhibitory effect of ALE on early arteriosclerosis and its mechanisms of action .
ALE suppressed TNF-α-induced monocyte adhesion to the vascular endothelium by suppressing NF-κB @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mouse model of atherosclerosis , ALE suppressed TNF-α-induced monocyte infiltration of the vascular endothelium and the expression of genes encoding inflammatory cytokines including IL-1β , IL-6 , TNF-α , and MCP-1 in the mouse aorta .
Moreover , inulin-type fructan and amino acids , especially L-aspartate and L-arginine ( 60.27 and 42.17 mg/g , respectively ) were detected by NMR , MALDI-TOF MS , and HPLC analysis as the main components of ALE .
Notably , L-arginine suppressed TNF-α-induced monocyte adhesion to HUVECs .
Therefore , these results suggest that ALE may be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ prevention of early stages of atherosclerosis .

Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease affecting the aorta and is a major cause of cardiovascular disease. Arctium lappa root is a plant widely used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), and Arctium lappa root extract (ALE) has been reported to exhibit anti-inflammatory capacity and to ameliorate endothelial dysfunction. Thus, we hypothesized that ALE would inhibit the early atherosclerotic stage. In this study, we evaluated the inhibitory effect of ALE on early arteriosclerosis and its mechanisms of action. ALE suppressed TNF-α-induced monocyte adhesion to the vascular endothelium by suppressing NF-κB signaling in HUVECs. In an acute mouse model of atherosclerosis, ALE suppressed TNF-α-induced monocyte infiltration of the vascular endothelium and the expression of genes encoding inflammatory cytokines including IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, and MCP-1 in the mouse aorta. Moreover, inulin-type fructan and amino acids, especially L-aspartate and L-arginine (60.27 and 42.17 mg/g, respectively) were detected by NMR, MALDI-TOF MS, and HPLC analysis as the main components of ALE. Notably, L-arginine suppressed TNF-α-induced monocyte adhesion to HUVECs. Therefore, these results suggest that ALE may be a functional food for the suppression or prevention of early stages of atherosclerosis.


greenmedinfo--2020-05-12--The immunomodulatory potential of selected bioactive plant-based compounds in breast cancer.

Breast cancer has continued to cause high cancer death rates among women worldwide .
The use of plants ' natural products in breast cancer treatment has received more attention in recent years due to their potentially wider safety margin and the potential to complement conventional chemotherapeutic drugs .
Plantbased products have demonstrated anticancer potential through different biological pathways including modulation of the immune system .
Immunomodulatory properties of medicinal plants have been shown to mitigate breast cancer cell growth .
Different immune cell types participate in this process especially cytotoxic T cells and natural killer cells , and cytokines including @ @ @ @ @ @ @ plants such as Glycyrrhiza glabra , Uncaria tomentosa , Camellia sinensis , Panax ginseng , Prunus armenaica ( apricot ) , Allium sativum , Arctium lappa and Curcuma longa were reported to hold strong potential in breast cancer treatment in various parts of the world .
Interestingly , research findings have shown that these plants possess bioactive immunomodulators as their main constituents producing the anticancer effects .
These immunomodulatory compounds include ajoene , arctigenin , β-carotene , curcumin , epigallocatechin-3-gallate , ginsan , glabridin and quinic acid .
In this review , we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in regulating the immune system potentially applicable in breast cancer treatment via anti-inflammatory ( curcumin , arctigenin , glabridin and ajoene ) and lymphocytes activation ( β-carotene , epigallocatechin-3-gallate , quinic acid and ginsan ) properties , as well as future research direction in their use for breast cancer treatment .

Breast cancer has continued to cause high cancer death rates among women worldwide. The use of plants' natural products in breast cancer treatment has received more attention in recent years due to their potentially wider safety margin and the potential to complement conventional chemotherapeutic drugs. Plantbased products have demonstrated anticancer potential through different biological pathways including modulation of the immune system. Immunomodulatory properties of medicinal plants have been shown to mitigate breast cancer cell growth. Different immune cell types participate in this process especially cytotoxic T cells and natural killer cells, and cytokines including chemokines and tumor necrosis factor-α. Medicinal plants such as Glycyrrhiza glabra, Uncaria tomentosa, Camellia sinensis, Panax ginseng, Prunus armenaica (apricot), Allium sativum, Arctium lappa and Curcuma longa were reported to hold strong potential in breast cancer treatment in various parts of the world. Interestingly, research findings have shown that these plants possess bioactive immunomodulators as their main constituents producing the anticancer effects. These immunomodulatory compounds include ajoene, arctigenin, β-carotene, curcumin, epigallocatechin-3-gallate, ginsan, glabridin and quinic acid. In this review, we discussed the ability of these eight immunomodulators in regulating the immune system potentially applicable in breast cancer treatment via anti-inflammatory (curcumin, arctigenin, glabridin and ajoene) and lymphocytes activation (β-carotene, epigallocatechin-3-gallate, quinic acid and ginsan) properties, as well as future research direction in their use for breast cancer treatment.


greenmedinfo--2020-05-12--Nanoencapsulation, an efficient and promising approach to maximize wound healing efficacy of curcumi

Nanoencapsulation, an efficient and promising approach to maximize wound healing efficacy of curcumin.

Wound healing is a multifarious and vibrant process of replacing devitalized and damaged cellular structures , leading to restoration of the skin 's barrier function , re-establishment of tissue integrity , and maintenance of the internal homeostasis .
Curcumin ( CUR ) and its analogs have gained widespread recognition due to their remarkable anti-inflammatory , anti-infective , anticancer , immunomodulatory , antioxidant , and wound healing activities .
However , their pharmaceutical significance is limited due to inherent hydrophobic nature , poor water solubility , low bioavailability , chemical instability , rapid metabolism and short half-life .
Owing to their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ attempted in recent years aiming to mitigate problems related to the effective delivery of curcumanoids and to improve their wound healing potential .
These advanced strategies include nanovesicles , polymeric micelles , conventional liposomes and hyalurosomes , nanocomposite hydrogels , electrospun nanofibers , nanohybrid scaffolds , nanoconjugates , nanostructured lipid carriers ( NLCs ) , nanoemulsion , nanodispersion , and polymeric nanoparticles ( NPs ) .
The superior wound healing activities achieved after nanoencapsulation of the CUR are attributed to its target-specific delivery , longer retention at the target site , avoiding premature @ @ @ @ @ @ @ therapeutic superiority of the advanced delivery systems over the conventional delivery .
We have critically reviewed the literature and summarize the convincing evidence which explore the pharmaceutical significance and therapeutic feasibility of the advanced delivery systems in improving wound healing activities of the CUR and its analogs .

Wound healing is a multifarious and vibrant process of replacing devitalized and damaged cellular structures, leading to restoration of the skin's barrier function, re-establishment of tissue integrity, and maintenance of the internal homeostasis. Curcumin (CUR) and its analogs have gained widespread recognition due to their remarkable anti-inflammatory, anti-infective, anticancer, immunomodulatory, antioxidant, and wound healing activities. However, their pharmaceutical significance is limited due to inherent hydrophobic nature, poor water solubility, low bioavailability, chemical instability, rapid metabolism and short half-life. Owing to their pharmaceutical limitations, newer strategies have been attempted in recent years aiming to mitigate problems related to the effective delivery of curcumanoids and to improve their wound healing potential. These advanced strategies include nanovesicles, polymeric micelles, conventional liposomes and hyalurosomes, nanocomposite hydrogels, electrospun nanofibers, nanohybrid scaffolds, nanoconjugates, nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs), nanoemulsion, nanodispersion, and polymeric nanoparticles (NPs). The superior wound healing activities achieved after nanoencapsulation of the CUR are attributed to its target-specific delivery, longer retention at the target site, avoiding premature degradation of the encapsulated cargo and the therapeutic superiority of the advanced delivery systems over the conventional delivery. We have critically reviewed the literature and summarize the convincing evidence which explore the pharmaceutical significance and therapeutic feasibility of the advanced delivery systems in improving wound healing activities of the CUR and its analogs.


greenmedinfo--2020-05-12--Curcumin inhibiting Th17 cell differentiation by regulating the metabotropic glutamate receptor-4 ex

Curcumin inhibiting Th17 cell differentiation by regulating the metabotropic glutamate receptor-4 expression on dendritic cells.

Th17 cells have been categorized as a new lineage of CD4+ T cells , and played a crucial role in the pathogenesis of numerous autoimmune disorders .
Type 4 metabotropic glutamate receptor ( mGluR4 ) , a member of group III mGluRs , recently has been found to be expressed in many types of immune cells and mediate adaptive immunity .
Curcumin has been shown to exhibit potent anti-inflammatory , antimutagenic and anticarcinogenic properties .
For the past few years , it has gradually been regarded as an pluripotent immunomodulatory agent that can regulate the activation of immune cells .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the efficacy and mechanism of curcumin on Th17 cells .
Treatment with curcumin significantly reduced IL-6 and IL-23 production by dendritic cells ( DC ) .
Additionally , it had a dramatic reduction in the proliferation of CD4+ T cells co-cultured with DC .
Furthermore , expression of the Th17 cells related cytokine profiles ( IL-17A and RORγt ) was dramatically decreased in curcumin-treated groups .
These findings indicated that curcumin inhibited the differentiation and development of Th17 cells .
Besides , we found that mGluR4 was constitutively expressed in mouse bone marrow @ @ @ @ @ @ @ first time .
In addition , mGluR4 siRNA-transfected BMDC tipped the balance of T cell differentiation in favor of the Th17 phenotype .
We first reported that curcumin increased the mGluR4 expression in mouse BMDC activated with LPS , which likely contributed to the mechanism of inhibiting the Th17 cell differentiation .
Our findings suggest that curcumin might be a potential candidate for Th17 related autoimmune disorders .

Th17 cells have been categorized as a new lineage of CD4+ T cells, and played a crucial role in the pathogenesis of numerous autoimmune disorders. Type 4 metabotropic glutamate receptor (mGluR4), a member of group III mGluRs, recently has been found to be expressed in many types of immune cells and mediate adaptive immunity. Curcumin has been shown to exhibit potent anti-inflammatory, antimutagenic and anticarcinogenic properties. For the past few years, it has gradually been regarded as an pluripotent immunomodulatory agent that can regulate the activation of immune cells. In the present study, we investigated the efficacy and mechanism of curcumin on Th17 cells. Treatment with curcumin significantly reduced IL-6 and IL-23 production by dendritic cells (DC). Additionally, it had a dramatic reduction in the proliferation of CD4+ T cells co-cultured with DC. Furthermore, expression of the Th17 cells related cytokine profiles (IL-17A and RORγt) was dramatically decreased in curcumin-treated groups. These findings indicated that curcumin inhibited the differentiation and development of Th17 cells. Besides, we found that mGluR4 was constitutively expressed in mouse bone marrow derived DC (BMDC) for the first time. In addition, mGluR4 siRNA-transfected BMDC tipped the balance of T cell differentiation in favor of the Th17 phenotype. We first reported that curcumin increased the mGluR4 expression in mouse BMDC activated with LPS, which likely contributed to the mechanism of inhibiting the Th17 cell differentiation. Our findings suggest that curcumin might be a potential candidate for Th17 related autoimmune disorders.


greenmedinfo--2020-05-12--Effect of berberine on atherosclerosis and gut microbiota modulation and their correlation in high-f

Effect of berberine on atherosclerosis and gut microbiota modulation and their correlation in high-fat diet-fed ApoE-/- mice.

Atherosclerosis and its associated cardiovascular diseases ( CVDs ) are serious threats to human health and have been reported to be associated with the gut microbiota .
Recently , the role of berberine ( BBR ) in atherosclerosis and gut microbiota has begun to be appreciated .
The purposes of this study were to observe the effects of high or low doses of BBR on atherosclerosis and gut microbiota modulation , and to explore their correlation in ApoEmice fed a high-fat diet .
A significant decrease in atherosclerotic lesions was observed after treatment with BBR , with the effect of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Both BBR treatments significantly reduced total cholesterol , APOB100 , and very low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels but levels of high/low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and lipoprotein ( a ) were only reduced by high-dose BBR .
Decreased pro-inflammatory cytokines tumor necrosis factor-alpha , interleukin ( IL ) -1β , IL-6 and increased anti-inflammatory IL-10 and adiponectin levels were observed in the high-dose BBR group , but no decrease in IL-6 or increase in IL-10 was evident using the low-dose of BBR .
16S rRNA sequencing showed that BBR significantly altered the community compositional structure of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the abundance of , , , , and , and changed the abundance of .
These microbiota displayed good anti-inflammatory effects related to the production of short-chain fatty acids ( SCFAs ) and were related to glucolipid metabolism.andwere significantly enriched in high-dose BBR group whileandwere more enriched in low-dose , andwas enriched in both BBR doses .
Metagenomic analysis further showed an elevated potential for lipid and glycan metabolism and synthesis of SCFAs , as well as reduced potential of TMAO production after BBR treatment .
The findings demonstrate that both high and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ systemic inflammation levels , and alleviate atherosclerosis induced by high-fat diet in ApoEmice .
The effects are more pronounced for the high dose .
This anti-atherosclerotic effect of BBR may be partly attributed to changes in composition and functions of gut microbiota which may be associated with anti-inflammatory and metabolism of glucose and lipid .
Notably , gut microbiota alterations showed different sensitivity to BBR dose .

Atherosclerosis and its associated cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are serious threats to human health and have been reported to be associated with the gut microbiota. Recently, the role of berberine (BBR) in atherosclerosis and gut microbiota has begun to be appreciated. The purposes of this study were to observe the effects of high or low doses of BBR on atherosclerosis and gut microbiota modulation, and to explore their correlation in ApoEmice fed a high-fat diet. A significant decrease in atherosclerotic lesions was observed after treatment with BBR, with the effect of the high dose being more obvious. Both BBR treatments significantly reduced total cholesterol, APOB100, and very low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels but levels of high/low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and lipoprotein (a) were only reduced by high-dose BBR. Decreased pro-inflammatory cytokines tumor necrosis factor-alpha, interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6 and increased anti-inflammatory IL-10 and adiponectin levels were observed in the high-dose BBR group, but no decrease in IL-6 or increase in IL-10 was evident using the low-dose of BBR. 16S rRNA sequencing showed that BBR significantly altered the community compositional structure of gut microbiota. Specifically, BBR enriched the abundance of,,,, and, and changed the abundance of. These microbiota displayed good anti-inflammatory effects related to the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and were related to glucolipid metabolism.andwere significantly enriched in high-dose BBR group whileandwere more enriched in low-dose, andwas enriched in both BBR doses. Metagenomic analysis further showed an elevated potential for lipid and glycan metabolism and synthesis of SCFAs, as well as reduced potential of TMAO production after BBR treatment. The findings demonstrate that both high and low-dose BBR can improve serum lipid and systemic inflammation levels, and alleviate atherosclerosis induced by high-fat diet in ApoEmice. The effects are more pronounced for the high dose. This anti-atherosclerotic effect of BBR may be partly attributed to changes in composition and functions of gut microbiota which may be associated with anti-inflammatory and metabolism of glucose and lipid. Notably, gut microbiota alterations showed different sensitivity to BBR dose.


greenmedinfo--2020-05-12--Role of a berberine-based nutritional supplement in reducing diarrhea in subjects with functional ga

Role of a berberine-based nutritional supplement in reducing diarrhea in subjects with functional gastrointestinal disorders.

BACKGROUND : Berberine , an alkaloid obtained by extraction from Berberis spp.
, is a botanical that is widely used in the nutraceutical sector to control cholesterol and blood glucose levels .
It is also a molecule that is effective in limiting diarrhea due to its multi-factorial properties , including its antimicrobial , gut eubiotic and antisecretive actions , and its ability to slow gut motility .
In our routine clinical practice , we have suggested the use of a berberine-based nutraceutical , formulated with melatonin and depolymerized guar gum , to patients affected by functional diarrhea ( FD ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ IBS-D ) .
METHODS : We have therefore retrospectively analyzed the clinical effect of such a nutritional supplement in these two sub-groups of patients .
RESULTS : Despite the highly pragmatic scheme of our study , our findings strongly confirm the antidiarrheal properties of berberine and recommend its use in some gut functional diseases characterized by frequent evacuation of mushy and/or watery stools .
In fact , even after 30 days of treatment , the berberine-based nutritional supplement significantly reduces diarrheal events by 50-70 % .
After 90 days , this reduction improves @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with a reduction of more than 60 % in the number of evacuations per week and with more than 50 % of treated subjects demonstrating normalized , according to self-reported Bristol Stool Scale categorization , stool consistency .
The product is well tolerated and adherence to the proposed therapy is good .
Common side effects of the product are flatulence and meteorism , likely due to the '' acarbose-like '' berberine effects on gutα-glucosidase .
CONCLUSIONS : Patients , especially those preferring '' natural '' therapy , can be successfully treated , when @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by diarrhea , by berberine-based products .

BACKGROUND: Berberine, an alkaloid obtained by extraction from Berberis spp., is a botanical that is widely used in the nutraceutical sector to control cholesterol and blood glucose levels. It is also a molecule that is effective in limiting diarrhea due to its multi-factorial properties, including its antimicrobial, gut eubiotic and antisecretive actions, and its ability to slow gut motility. In our routine clinical practice, we have suggested the use of a berberine-based nutraceutical, formulated with melatonin and depolymerized guar gum, to patients affected by functional diarrhea (FD) or by diarrhea-type irritable bowel syndrome (IBS-D).
METHODS: We have therefore retrospectively analyzed the clinical effect of such a nutritional supplement in these two sub-groups of patients.
RESULTS: Despite the highly pragmatic scheme of our study, our findings strongly confirm the antidiarrheal properties of berberine and recommend its use in some gut functional diseases characterized by frequent evacuation of mushy and/or watery stools. In fact, even after 30 days of treatment, the berberine-based nutritional supplement significantly reduces diarrheal events by 50-70%. After 90 days, this reduction improves to between 70 and 80%, with a reduction of more than 60% in the number of evacuations per week and with more than 50% of treated subjects demonstrating normalized, according to self-reported Bristol Stool Scale categorization, stool consistency. The product is well tolerated and adherence to the proposed therapy is good. Common side effects of the product are flatulence and meteorism, likely due to the"acarbose-like"berberine effects on gutα-glucosidase.
CONCLUSIONS: Patients, especially those preferring"natural"therapy, can be successfully treated, when affected by a gut functional disease characterized by diarrhea, by berberine-based products.


greenmedinfo--2020-05-12--Berberine protects against simulated ischemia/reperfusion injury-induced H9C2 cardiomyocytes apoptos

Berberine protects against simulated ischemia/reperfusion injury-induced H9C2 cardiomyocytes apoptosis.

Berberine ( BBR ) has a variety of pharmacological activities and is widely used in Asian countries .
However , @ @ @ @ @ still lacks scientific basis , what protective mechanism of BBR against myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury ( @ @ @ @ @ pretreatment regulated autophagy-related protein expression , induced cell proliferation and autophagosome formation , and reduced @ @ @ @ @ ΔΨm ) increase in H9C2 cells.experiments , BBR reduced the myocardial infarct size , decreased @ @ @ @ @ decreased myocardial enzyme ( CK-MB , LDH , and AST ) activity-induced I/R .
In @ @ @ @ @ , the regulatory effects of BBR on the above indicators were weakened both in H9C2 @ @ @ @ @ and ChIP assays indicated that BBR mediated BNIP3 expression by enhancing the binding of HIF-1α @ @ @ @ @ BBR protects against myocardial I/R injury by inducing cardiomyocytes proliferation , inhibiting cardiomyocytes apoptosis , @ @ @ @ @ pathway .
Thus , BBR may serve as a novel therapeutic drug for myocardial I/R @ @

Berberine (BBR) has a variety of pharmacological activities and is widely used in Asian countries. However, the clinical application of BBR still lacks scientific basis, what protective mechanism of BBR against myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury (MIRI).experiments, BBR pretreatment regulated autophagy-related protein expression, induced cell proliferation and autophagosome formation, and reduced the mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm) increase in H9C2 cells.experiments, BBR reduced the myocardial infarct size, decreased cardiomyocyte apoptosis, and markedly decreased myocardial enzyme (CK-MB, LDH, and AST) activity-induced I/R. In addition, upon BNIP3 knockdown, the regulatory effects of BBR on the above indicators were weakened both in H9C2 cells and. Luciferase reporter and ChIP assays indicated that BBR mediated BNIP3 expression by enhancing the binding of HIF-1α to the BNIP3 promoter. BBR protects against myocardial I/R injury by inducing cardiomyocytes proliferation, inhibiting cardiomyocytes apoptosis, and inducing the mitophagy-mediated HIF-1α/BNIP3 pathway. Thus, BBR may serve as a novel therapeutic drug for myocardial I/R injury.


greenmedinfo--2020-05-13--Vitamin D-cathelicidin axis: at the crossroads between protective immunity and pathological inflamma

Vitamin D-cathelicidin axis: at the crossroads between protective immunity and pathological inflammation during infection.

Vitamin D signaling plays an essential role in innate defense against intracellular microorganisms via the generation of the antimicrobial protein @ @ @ @ @ directly binding to and killing a range of pathogens , cathelicidin acts as a secondary @ @ @ @ @ during infection .
Recent studies have elucidated the biological and clinical functions of cathelicidin in @ @ @ @ @ signaling .
The vitamin D-cathelicidin axis is involved in the activation of autophagy , which @ @ @ @ @ pathogens .
Vitamin D studies have also revealed positive and negative regulatory effects of cathelicidin @ @ @ @ @ stimuli .
Diverse innate and adaptive immune signals crosstalk with functional vitamin D receptor signals @ @ @ @ @ cathelicidin action in cell-autonomous effector systems .
In this review , we discuss recent findings @ @ @ @ @ D-cathelicidin pathway regulates autophagy machinery , protective immune defenses , and inflammation , and contributes @ @ @ @ @ and adaptive immunity .
Understanding how the vitamin D-cathelicidin axis operates in the host response @ @ @ @ @ for the development of new therapeutic approaches against a variety of infectious diseases .

Vitamin D signaling plays an essential role in innate defense against intracellular microorganisms via the generation of the antimicrobial protein cathelicidin. In addition to directly binding to and killing a range of pathogens, cathelicidin acts as a secondary messenger driving vitamin D-mediated inflammation during infection. Recent studies have elucidated the biological and clinical functions of cathelicidin in the context of vitamin D signaling. The vitamin D-cathelicidin axis is involved in the activation of autophagy, which enhances antimicrobial effects against diverse pathogens. Vitamin D studies have also revealed positive and negative regulatory effects of cathelicidin on inflammatory responses to pathogenic stimuli. Diverse innate and adaptive immune signals crosstalk with functional vitamin D receptor signals to enhance the role of cathelicidin action in cell-autonomous effector systems. In this review, we discuss recent findings that demonstrate how the vitamin D-cathelicidin pathway regulates autophagy machinery, protective immune defenses, and inflammation, and contributes to immune cooperation between innate and adaptive immunity. Understanding how the vitamin D-cathelicidin axis operates in the host response to infection will create opportunities for the development of new therapeutic approaches against a variety of infectious diseases.


greenmedinfo--2020-05-13--A comparative study of curcumin-loaded lipid-based nanocarriers in the treatment of inflammatory bow

A comparative study of curcumin-loaded lipid-based nanocarriers in the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease.

Selective drug delivery to inflamed tissues is of widespread interest for the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease ( IBD ) .
Because a lack of physiological lipids has been described in patients suffering IBD , and some lipids present immunomodulatory properties , we hypothesize that the combination of lipids and anti-inflammatory drugs together within a nanocarrier may be a valuable strategy for overcoming IBD .
In the present study , we investigated and compared the in vitro and in vivo efficacy of three lipid-based nanocarriers containing curcumin ( CC ) as an anti-inflammatory drug for treating IBD in a murine @ @ @ @ @ @ @ self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery systems ( SNEDDS ) , nanostructured lipid carriers ( NLC ) and lipid core-shell protamine nanocapsules ( NC ) .
In vitro , a 30-fold higher CC permeability across Caco-2 cell monolayers was obtained using NC compared to SNEDDS ( NC > SNEDDS > NLC and CC suspension ) .
The CC SNEDDS and CC NLC but not the CC NC or CC suspension significantly reduced TNF-α secretion by LPS-activated macrophages ( J774 cells ) .
In vivo , only CC NLC were able to significantly decrease neutrophil infiltration and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ inflammation .
Our results show that a higher CC permeability does not correlate with a higher efficacy in IBD treatment , which suggests that lipidic nanocarriers exhibiting increased CC retention at the intestinal site , rather than increased CC permeability are efficient treatments of IBD .

Selective drug delivery to inflamed tissues is of widespread interest for the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Because a lack of physiological lipids has been described in patients suffering IBD, and some lipids present immunomodulatory properties, we hypothesize that the combination of lipids and anti-inflammatory drugs together within a nanocarrier may be a valuable strategy for overcoming IBD. In the present study, we investigated and compared the in vitro and in vivo efficacy of three lipid-based nanocarriers containing curcumin (CC) as an anti-inflammatory drug for treating IBD in a murine DSS-induced colitis model. These nanocarriers included self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery systems (SNEDDS), nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC) and lipid core-shell protamine nanocapsules (NC). In vitro, a 30-fold higher CC permeability across Caco-2 cell monolayers was obtained using NC compared to SNEDDS (NC>SNEDDS>NLC and CC suspension). The CC SNEDDS and CC NLC but not the CC NC or CC suspension significantly reduced TNF-α secretion by LPS-activated macrophages (J774 cells). In vivo, only CC NLC were able to significantly decrease neutrophil infiltration and TNF-α secretion and, thus, colonic inflammation. Our results show that a higher CC permeability does not correlate with a higher efficacy in IBD treatment, which suggests that lipidic nanocarriers exhibiting increased CC retention at the intestinal site, rather than increased CC permeability are efficient treatments of IBD.


greenmedinfo--2020-05-13--Curcumin-loaded nanocapsules reverses the depressant-like behaviour and oxidative stress induced by

Curcumin-loaded nanocapsules reverses the depressant-like behaviour and oxidative stress induced by β-amyloid.

Alzheimer 's disease ( AD ) is a neurodegenerative disorder classically characterized by cognitive functions impairment .
However , its symptomatology is complex and the depression is one of the most frequent behavioral changes in AD .
AD pathology includes neuroinflammation and oxidative stress resulting in the Aβ protein accumulation .
Curcumin is a natural phenolic compound that shows antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties .
Nevertheless , therapeutic use of curcumin is limited due to its low bioavailability and biodistribution .
In this context , the use of curcumin-loaded nanocapsules ( NLC C ) emergesto overcome its limitations .
Thus , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ NLC C on the depressant-like behavior and oxidative stress induced by an animal model of AD .
For this , Swiss male mice were divided into five groups .
The Aβ , Aβ + NLC C and Aβ + Curcumin groups received Aβaggregate ( 3 nmol/3 μL , i.c.v. )
.
Control and NLC C groups received only vehicle .
The NLC C were administered via gavage at a dose of 10 mg/kg in alternate days for 12 days .
Our results demonstrated that Aβ infusion induced a depressantant-like behavior observed in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which was reversed by NLC C treatment .
No change was observed in mice locomotion .
Furthermore , NLC C reduced the Aβ-generated oxidative stress in the prefrontal cortex , evidenced by the increase in the reactive species levels , superoxide dismutase and catalase activities .
Importantly , NLCC were more effective than the free curcumin .
Thus , we demonstrated the antidepressant-like and antioxidant effects of NLC C in a mouse model of AD , suggesting its therapeutic potential for this disorder .

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder classically characterized by cognitive functions impairment. However, its symptomatology is complex and the depression is one of the most frequent behavioral changes in AD. AD pathology includes neuroinflammation and oxidative stress resulting in the Aβ protein accumulation. Curcumin is a natural phenolic compound that shows antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Nevertheless, therapeutic use of curcumin is limited due to its low bioavailability and biodistribution. In this context, the use of curcumin-loaded nanocapsules (NLC C) emergesto overcome its limitations. Thus, the present study investigated the effects of NLC C on the depressant-like behavior and oxidative stress induced by an animal model of AD. For this, Swiss male mice were divided into five groups. The Aβ, Aβ + NLC C and Aβ + Curcumin groups received Aβaggregate (3 nmol/3 μL, i.c.v.). Control and NLC C groups received only vehicle. The NLC C were administered via gavage at a dose of 10 mg/kg in alternate days for 12 days. Our results demonstrated that Aβ infusion induced a depressantant-like behavior observed in the tail suspension and forced swimming tests, which was reversed by NLC C treatment. No change was observed in mice locomotion. Furthermore, NLC C reduced the Aβ-generated oxidative stress in the prefrontal cortex, evidenced by the increase in the reactive species levels, superoxide dismutase and catalase activities. Importantly, NLCC were more effective than the free curcumin. Thus, we demonstrated the antidepressant-like and antioxidant effects of NLC C in a mouse model of AD, suggesting its therapeutic potential for this disorder.


greenmedinfo--2020-05-13--Nano-curcumin supplementation for 8 weeks was effective in reducing depression and anxiety scores in

Nano-curcumin supplementation for 8 weeks was effective in reducing depression and anxiety scores in patients with diabetic polyneuropathy.

Depression in patients with diabetes is associated with poor glycemic control and linked to an increased risk for diabetes complications such as neuropathy .
Curcumin has shown potential antidepressant-like activities in some studies .
The present study is the first randomized controlled trial to test the efficacy of nano-curcumin supplementation on depression , anxiety , and stress in patients with diabetic polyneuropathy .
Eighty patients with diabetes were enrolled in this parallel , double-blind , randomized , placebo-controlled clinical trial .
The participants were allocated randomly to the intervention ( n = 40 ) and control ( n = 40 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of nano-curcumin or placebo capsules daily for 8 weeks .
At baseline and end of study , anthropometric measurements , dietary intake , physical activity , glycemic indices , and severity of neuropathy were assessed .
The depression , anxiety , and stress level were measured by Depression , Anxiety , Stress Scale ( DASS-21-items ) questionnaire before and after the intervention .
After intervention , there was a significant reduction in the mean score of depression in the nano-curcumin group ( from 16.7 [ 3.1 ] to 15.3 [ 2.6 ] ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 3.2 ] to 17.3 [ 3.1 ] ; p = .02 ) .
In addition , a significant fall was found in the mean score of anxiety in the nano-curcumin group ( from 22.4 [ 4.03 ] to 20.6 [ 3.4 ] ) compared with the placebo group ( 21.9 [ 3.5 ] to 21.2 [ 3.5 ] ; p = .009 ) .
Changes in stress score were not statistically significant between the two groups .
These findings suggested that nano-curcumin supplementation for 8 weeks was effective in reducing depression and anxiety @ @ @ @ @ @ @

Depression in patients with diabetes is associated with poor glycemic control and linked to an increased risk for diabetes complications such as neuropathy. Curcumin has shown potential antidepressant-like activities in some studies. The present study is the first randomized controlled trial to test the efficacy of nano-curcumin supplementation on depression, anxiety, and stress in patients with diabetic polyneuropathy. Eighty patients with diabetes were enrolled in this parallel, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial. The participants were allocated randomly to the intervention (n = 40) and control (n = 40) groups. They received 80 mg of nano-curcumin or placebo capsules daily for 8 weeks. At baseline and end of study, anthropometric measurements, dietary intake, physical activity, glycemic indices, and severity of neuropathy were assessed. The depression, anxiety, and stress level were measured by Depression, Anxiety, Stress Scale (DASS-21-items) questionnaire before and after the intervention. After intervention, there was a significant reduction in the mean score of depression in the nano-curcumin group (from 16.7 [3.1] to 15.3 [2.6]) compared with placebo group (17.5 [3.2] to 17.3 [3.1]; p = .02). In addition, a significant fall was found in the mean score of anxiety in the nano-curcumin group (from 22.4 [4.03] to 20.6 [3.4]) compared with the placebo group (21.9 [3.5] to 21.2 [3.5]; p = .009). Changes in stress score were not statistically significant between the two groups. These findings suggested that nano-curcumin supplementation for 8 weeks was effective in reducing depression and anxiety scores in patients with diabetic polyneuropathy.


greenmedinfo--2020-05-13--Turmeric has the ability to reduce weight, decrease body fat percentage, lower systolic blood pressu

Turmeric has the ability to reduce weight, decrease body fat percentage, lower systolic blood pressure, and relieve anxiety for young, obese and overweight females.

Context : The prevalence of overweight and obesity and associated comorbidities has progressively risen .
Curcumin , the active ingredient in turmeric , and turmeric aqueous extract , a concentrated form , have been reported to have beneficial effects in treatment of cardiovascular diseases and their risk factors .
However , turmeric has not been studied in its natural form .
Objective : The present study planned to evaluate the beneficial effects of turmeric in its natural form on obesity-related , cardiovascular-disease risk factors in overweight or obese females .
Setting : The study took place in the Department of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( Dammam , Saudi Arabia ) .
Participants : The participants were 36 young female students at the university , with a body mass index≥ 23 kg/m2 .
Intervention : Participants received a daily dose of 2 g/d of turmeric in capsules for 90 d. Outcome Measures : Anthropometric measures , blood pressure , serum homocysteine , and mental health status- stress , anxiety , depression scores-were recorded at baseline and postintervention .
Dietary intake and physical activity ( confounding variables ) were also measured .
Results : The following anthropometric measures were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( 1 ) body weight-73.47 vs 72.45 kg ( P = .04 ) , ( 2 ) body mass index-28.75 vs 28.27 kg/m2 ( P = .02 ) , ( 3 ) waist circumference-81.85 vs 77.96 cm ( P = .01 ) , ( 4 ) hip circumference-102.72 vs 98.10 cm ( P = .001 ) , ( 5 ) body fat % -34.34 vs 32.58 ( P = .00 ) , ( 6 ) systolic blood pressure-119.12 vs 115.92 mm Hg ( P = .04 ) , and ( 7 ) anxiety @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) , as compared by paired t test .
Homocysteine levels and stress and depression scores showed no significant changes .
Dietary intake and physical activity did not vary significantly throughout the study period .
Conclusion : Turmeric has the ability to reduce weight , decrease body fat percentage , lower systolic blood pressure , and relieve anxiety for young , obese and overweight females , when given at 2 g/d for 90 d .

Context: The prevalence of overweight and obesity and associated comorbidities has progressively risen. Curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric, and turmeric aqueous extract, a concentrated form, have been reported to have beneficial effects in treatment of cardiovascular diseases and their risk factors. However, turmeric has not been studied in its natural form.
Objective: The present study planned to evaluate the beneficial effects of turmeric in its natural form on obesity-related, cardiovascular-disease risk factors in overweight or obese females.
Design: The study used a pre-post, single-arm design.
Setting: The study took place in the Department of Physiology at Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University (Dammam, Saudi Arabia).
Participants: The participants were 36 young female students at the university, with a body mass index≥ 23 kg/m2.
Intervention: Participants received a daily dose of 2 g/d of turmeric in capsules for 90 d.
Outcome Measures: Anthropometric measures, blood pressure, serum homocysteine, and mental health status- stress, anxiety, depression scores-were recorded at baseline and postintervention. Dietary intake and physical activity (confounding variables) were also measured.
Results: The following anthropometric measures were reduced significantly between baseline and postintervention: (1) body weight-73.47 vs 72.45 kg (P = .04), (2) body mass index-28.75 vs 28.27 kg/m2 (P = .02), (3) waist circumference-81.85 vs 77.96 cm (P = .01), (4) hip circumference-102.72 vs 98.10 cm (P = .001), (5) body fat %-34.34 vs 32.58 (P = .00), (6) systolic blood pressure-119.12 vs 115.92 mm Hg (P = .04), and (7) anxiety scores-7.88 vs 4.73 (P = .03), as compared by paired t test. Homocysteine levels and stress and depression scores showed no significant changes. Dietary intake and physical activity did not vary significantly throughout the study period.
Conclusion: Turmeric has the ability to reduce weight, decrease body fat percentage, lower systolic blood pressure, and relieve anxiety for young, obese and overweight females, when given at 2 g/d for 90 d.


greenmedinfo--2020-05-13--Curcumin amends Ca2+ dysregulation in microglia by suppressing the activation of P2X7 receptor.

Curcumin ( Cur ) is widely used as an anti-inflammation agent and has anti-depression potential .
Neuroinflammation mediated by Cachannel activation is closely associated with the progression of post-stroke depression ( PSD ) .
In the current study , the role of P2X7 receptor ( P2X7R ) in the anti-PSD function of Cur was explored .
Rats were subjected to middle cerebral artery occlusion ( MCAO ) surgery and chronic mild stress administration to induce PSD symptoms and then treated with Cur .
The behaviors of rats were assessed with sucrose preference and forced swim tests .
The accumulation of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were detected .
To determine the role of P2X7R in the anti-PSD function of curcumin , the PSD mice were further administrated with P2X7R agonist and antagonist .
The administration of Cur attenuated behavior disorders associated with PSD .
Moreover , the Caaccumulation and the inflammatory response associated with PSD were also blocked by Cur .
Cur also inhibited the activation of Cachannel .
The induced activity of P2X7R blocked the function of Cur by maintaining the symptoms of PSD in Cur-treated rats .
Collectively , the anti-PSD function of Cur was dependent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ then deactivated Cachannel-mediated inflammatory response associated with PSD progression .

Curcumin (Cur) is widely used as an anti-inflammation agent and has anti-depression potential. Neuroinflammation mediated by Cachannel activation is closely associated with the progression of post-stroke depression (PSD). In the current study, the role of P2X7 receptor (P2X7R) in the anti-PSD function of Cur was explored. Rats were subjected to middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) surgery and chronic mild stress administration to induce PSD symptoms and then treated with Cur. The behaviors of rats were assessed with sucrose preference and forced swim tests. The accumulation of Caand the systemic inflammatory response in rats were detected. To determine the role of P2X7R in the anti-PSD function of curcumin, the PSD mice were further administrated with P2X7R agonist and antagonist. The administration of Cur attenuated behavior disorders associated with PSD. Moreover, the Caaccumulation and the inflammatory response associated with PSD were also blocked by Cur. Cur also inhibited the activation of Cachannel. The induced activity of P2X7R blocked the function of Cur by maintaining the symptoms of PSD in Cur-treated rats. Collectively, the anti-PSD function of Cur was dependent on the inhibition of P2X7R, which then deactivated Cachannel-mediated inflammatory response associated with PSD progression.


greenmedinfo--2020-05-13--Curcumin improved quality of life in liver cirrhotic patients.

OBJECTIVES : Current study aimed to find the effects of curcumin on quality of life ( QoL ) in liver cirrhotic patients .
DESIGN : In this randomized double-masked placebo-controlled trial , 70 cases with liver cirrhosis aged 20-70 years were randomly divided into two groups to receive 1000 mg/day curcumin ( n = 35 ) or placebo ( n = 35 ) for 12 weeks .
The health-related QoL ( HRQoL ) was assessed by CLDQ , LDSI 2.0 , and SF-36 .
RESULTS : Fifty-eight patients ( 28 in curcumin and 30 in placebo groups ) finished the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ scores as well as most of CLDQ domains ( e.g .
Fatigue , Emotional Function , Worry , Abdominal Symptoms , and Systemic Symptoms ) and the Physical and Mental health ( Total ) scores and most of SF-36 domains ( e.g .
Physical Functioning , Bodily Pain , Vitality , Social Functioning , and Mental Health ) increased considerably ( P CONCLUSIONS : Curcumin improved QoL in liver cirrhotic patients according to CLDQ , LDSI 2.0 , and SF-36 domains .
Additional studies are warranted to consider curcumin as a safe , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in cirrhosis .

OBJECTIVES: Current study aimed to find the effects of curcumin on quality of life (QoL) in liver cirrhotic patients.
DESIGN: In this randomized double-masked placebo-controlled trial, 70 cases with liver cirrhosis aged 20-70 years were randomly divided into two groups to receive 1000 mg/day curcumin (n = 35) or placebo (n = 35) for 12 weeks. The health-related QoL (HRQoL) was assessed by CLDQ, LDSI 2.0, and SF-36.
RESULTS: Fifty-eight patients (28 in curcumin and 30 in placebo groups) finished the research. Compared with baseline, overall scores as well as most of CLDQ domains (e.g. Fatigue, Emotional Function, Worry, Abdominal Symptoms, and Systemic Symptoms) and the Physical and Mental health (Total) scores and most of SF-36 domains (e.g. Physical Functioning, Bodily Pain, Vitality, Social Functioning, and Mental Health) increased considerably (P < 0.05) after curcumin administration. Furthermore, curcumin reduced most of LDSI 2.0 domains (e.g. Itch, Joint pain, Pain in the right upper abdomen, Sleeping during the day, Decreased appetite, Depression, Fear of complication, Jaundice, Hindrance in Financial Affairs, Change in use of time, Decreased sexual interest, and Decreased sexual activity) significantly (P < 0.05). Significant differences were noticed between two groups in CLDQ domains and overall scores, LDSI 2.0 domains and overall scores, SF-36 Physical and Mental health (total) scores and all its domains scores (P < 0.05), adjusting for baseline values and disease duration.
CONCLUSIONS: Curcumin improved QoL in liver cirrhotic patients according to CLDQ, LDSI 2.0, and SF-36 domains. Additional studies are warranted to consider curcumin as a safe, accessible, and low-cost complementary therapeutic option in cirrhosis.


greenmedinfo--2020-05-13--An experimental comparison of the effects of propolis, curcumin, and methylprednisolone on crush inj

An experimental comparison of the effects of propolis, curcumin, and methylprednisolone on crush injuries of the sciatic nerve.

BACKGROUND : Propolis and curcumin have antioxidant , anti-inflammatory , immunomodulatory , and neuroprotective features .
The goal of this study was to determine the effects of propolis and curcumin on nerve healing in rat sciatic nerve crush injuries and to compare these effects with results obtained using steroid treatment .
METHODS : In the sham group , the right sciatic nerves of rats were dissected and exposed , and the skin was closed without any additional manipulation .
In the control group ( group C ) , after the right sciatic nerves of rats were exposed , crush damage @ @ @ @ @ @ @ In the control-methylprednisolone group , crush injuries were inflicted on sciatic nerves as in group C. After injury , 1-mg/kg methylprednisolone was administered daily for 6 days and was then tapered for 4 days .
In the curcumin group , crush injuries were inflicted on sciatic nerves as in group C. Then , 100-mg/kg curcumin was given every day .
In the propolis group , crush injuries were inflicted on sciatic nerves as in group C. Then , 200-mg/kg propolis was given every day .
Rats were evaluated after 28 days using functional @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) , histomorphometric , electron microscopic , and muscle weight measurements .
RESULTS : Compared to the control groups , the curcumin and propolis groups had better functional ( walking track analysis and electrophysiological ) results after experimental peripheral nerve crush injury .
CONCLUSIONS : Curcumin and propolis , 2 traditional drugs , had a positive effect on nerve crush injuries .
We are convinced that they can be used to support routine treatment in such nerve injuries .

BACKGROUND: Propolis and curcumin have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and neuroprotective features. The goal of this study was to determine the effects of propolis and curcumin on nerve healing in rat sciatic nerve crush injuries and to compare these effects with results obtained using steroid treatment.
METHODS: In the sham group, the right sciatic nerves of rats were dissected and exposed, and the skin was closed without any additional manipulation. In the control group (group C), after the right sciatic nerves of rats were exposed, crush damage was inflicted using a surgical clamp. In the control-methylprednisolone group, crush injuries were inflicted on sciatic nerves as in group C. After injury, 1-mg/kg methylprednisolone was administered daily for 6 days and was then tapered for 4 days. In the curcumin group, crush injuries were inflicted on sciatic nerves as in group C. Then, 100-mg/kg curcumin was given every day. In the propolis group, crush injuries were inflicted on sciatic nerves as in group C. Then, 200-mg/kg propolis was given every day. Rats were evaluated after 28 days using functional (walking track analysis and electrophysiological measurements), histomorphometric, electron microscopic, and muscle weight measurements.
RESULTS: Compared to the control groups, the curcumin and propolis groups had better functional (walking track analysis and electrophysiological) results after experimental peripheral nerve crush injury.
CONCLUSIONS: Curcumin and propolis, 2 traditional drugs, had a positive effect on nerve crush injuries. We are convinced that they can be used to support routine treatment in such nerve injuries.


greenmedinfo--2020-05-13--Immunomodulatory effects of nanocurcumin in arsenic-exposed rats.

We evaluated whether the nanoformulation of curcumin could be more effective than free curcumin against arsenic-induced immune dysfunction in rats .
Curcumin was encapsulated in polylactic-co-glycolic acid ( PLGA ) .
Nanocurcumin ( CUR-NP ) exhibited a spherical shape with the mean particle size of 130.8 nm .
Rats were randomly divided into five groups of six each .
Group I was kept as the control .
In Group II , rats were exposed to sodium arsenite ( 25 ppm ) daily through drinking water for 42 days .
Groups III , IV and V were treated with arsenic as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were administered with nanoparticle , curcumin ( 100 mg/kg bw ) and CUR-NP ( 100 mg/kg bw ) , respectively , by oral gavage during the last 14 days of arsenic exposure .
At term , serum and spleen were collected .
Immune dysfunction was evaluated by assessing cellular and humoral immunities .
Arsenic significantly decreased the splenic lymphocyte proliferation in response to the antigen -- Keyhole Limpet Hemocyanin ( KLH ) and mitogen -- concanavalin-A .
Arsenic reduced both the delayed type hypersensitivity response and secondary antibody ( IgG ) response to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ nitric oxide production in splenic lymphocytes .
Free curcumin and CUR-NP treatment significantly attenuated these arsenic-mediated effects .
However , the magnitude of the effects indicates that CUR-NP has better ameliorative potential than free curcumin at the equivalent dose level .

We evaluated whether the nanoformulation of curcumin could be more effective than free curcumin against arsenic-induced immune dysfunction in rats. Curcumin was encapsulated in polylactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA). Nanocurcumin (CUR-NP) exhibited a spherical shape with the mean particle size of 130.8 nm. Rats were randomly divided into five groups of six each. Group I was kept as the control. In Group II, rats were exposed to sodium arsenite (25 ppm) daily through drinking water for 42 days. Groups III, IV and V were treated with arsenic as in Group II, however, they were administered with nanoparticle, curcumin (100 mg/kg bw) and CUR-NP (100 mg/kg bw), respectively, by oral gavage during the last 14 days of arsenic exposure. At term, serum and spleen were collected. Immune dysfunction was evaluated by assessing cellular and humoral immunities. Arsenic significantly decreased the splenic lymphocyte proliferation in response to the antigen -- Keyhole Limpet Hemocyanin (KLH) and mitogen -- concanavalin-A. Arsenic reduced both the delayed type hypersensitivity response and secondary antibody (IgG) response to KLH. It also reduced the lipopolysaccharide-stimulated nitric oxide production in splenic lymphocytes. Free curcumin and CUR-NP treatment significantly attenuated these arsenic-mediated effects. However, the magnitude of the effects indicates that CUR-NP has better ameliorative potential than free curcumin at the equivalent dose level.


greenmedinfo--2020-05-13--These findings offer curcumin as a new therapeutic agent with the potential of regulating astrocyte-

These findings offer curcumin as a new therapeutic agent with the potential of regulating astrocyte-mediated inflammatory diseases in the CNS.

Multiple sclerosis ( MS ) is considered an inflammatory and neurodegenerative disease of the central nervous system ( CNS ) which most often presents as relapsing-remitting episodes .
Recent evidence suggests that activated astrocytes play a dual functional role in CNS inflammatory disorders such as MS .
In this study , we tried to induce anti-inflammatory functions of astrocytes by curcumin .
The effects of curcumin were examined on human a astrocyte cell line ( U373-MG ) induced by lipopolysaccharide ( LPS ) in vitro .
Matrix metalloproteinase ( MMP ) -9 activity was assessed by gelatin zymography .
Cytokine @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and mRNA expression was measured by real-time PCR .
We found that curcumin decreased the release of IL-6 and reduced MMP-9 enzyme activity .
It down-regulated MCP-1 mRNA expression too .
However , curcumin did not have significant effects on the expression of neurotrophin ( NT ) -3 and insulin-like growth factor ( IGF ) -1 mRNAs .
Results suggest that curcumin might beneficially affect astrocyte population in CNS neuroinflammatory environment lean to anti-inflammatory response and help to components in respects of CNS repair .
Our findings offer curcumin as a new therapeutic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ inflammatory diseases in the CNS .

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is considered an inflammatory and neurodegenerative disease of the central nervous system (CNS) which most often presents as relapsing-remitting episodes. Recent evidence suggests that activated astrocytes play a dual functional role in CNS inflammatory disorders such as MS. In this study, we tried to induce anti-inflammatory functions of astrocytes by curcumin. The effects of curcumin were examined on human a astrocyte cell line (U373-MG) induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in vitro. Matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9 activity was assessed by gelatin zymography. Cytokine levels were evaluated by quantitative ELISA method and mRNA expression was measured by real-time PCR. We found that curcumin decreased the release of IL-6 and reduced MMP-9 enzyme activity. It down-regulated MCP-1 mRNA expression too. However, curcumin did not have significant effects on the expression of neurotrophin (NT)-3 and insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-1 mRNAs. Results suggest that curcumin might beneficially affect astrocyte population in CNS neuroinflammatory environment lean to anti-inflammatory response and help to components in respects of CNS repair. Our findings offer curcumin as a new therapeutic agent with the potential of regulating astrocyte-mediated inflammatory diseases in the CNS.


greenmedinfo--2020-05-13--Curcumin has strong antioxidant, with anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory and analgesic properties.

INTRODUCTION : Recurrent aphthous stomatitis ( RAS ) is an unfortunately most common disease occurring in oral cavity .
Although the lesion is usually self-limited , its painful presentation , high frequency of occurrence , and multifactorial etiology leads to significant morbidity .
So , an efficient therapeutic strategy is needed to provide relief to the patients .
AIM : To assess and compare the efficacy of Curcumin with Triamcinolone acetonide in the gel form in treatment of minor RAS .
MATERIALS AND METHODS : As a randomized clinical trial , 60 patients of either sex with clinically diagnosed RAS @ @ @ @ @ @ @ group ( Group I ) and Triamcinolone Acetonide gel group ( Group II ) .
Patients in either group were asked to apply the gel three times a day on each ulcer .
Assessment of efficacy of gel was done on the basis of time required for regression in pain , size , and number of the ulcers .
RESULTS : The results showed significant difference in size , pain , number , and duration of ulcers in Group I and Group II within a period of 7 days .
However , no @ @ @ @ @ @ @ groups in the treatment of RAS .
To evaluate the efficacy , Mann-Whitney U test was used and statistical analysis was done using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences ( SPSS ) 19 software .
CONCLUSION : Curcumin has strong antioxidant , with anti-inflammatory , immunomodulatory and analgesic properties , which according to the results obtained from the present study , can be used as an effective alternative to steroids in treatment of RAS .

INTRODUCTION: Recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS) is an unfortunately most common disease occurring in oral cavity. Although the lesion is usually self-limited, its painful presentation, high frequency of occurrence, and multifactorial etiology leads to significant morbidity. So, an efficient therapeutic strategy is needed to provide relief to the patients.
AIM: To assess and compare the efficacy of Curcumin with Triamcinolone acetonide in the gel form in treatment of minor RAS.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: As a randomized clinical trial, 60 patients of either sex with clinically diagnosed RAS were randomly divided into 2 groups-Curcumin gel group (Group I) and Triamcinolone Acetonide gel group (Group II). Patients in either group were asked to apply the gel three times a day on each ulcer. Assessment of efficacy of gel was done on the basis of time required for regression in pain, size, and number of the ulcers.
RESULTS: The results showed significant difference in size, pain, number, and duration of ulcers in Group I and Group II within a period of 7 days. However, no significant difference was noted in both the groups in the treatment of RAS. To evaluate the efficacy, Mann-Whitney U test was used and statistical analysis was done using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) 19 software.
CONCLUSION: Curcumin has strong antioxidant, with anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory and analgesic properties, which according to the results obtained from the present study, can be used as an effective alternative to steroids in treatment of RAS.


greenmedinfo--2020-05-13--Curcumin loaded solid lipid nanoparticles ameliorate adjuvant-induced arthritis.

BACKGROUND : Rheumatoid arthritis ( RA ) , a chronic and systemic inflammation , results in destruction of joints and cartilages .
Effectiveness of curcumin has been established in a wide variety of inflammatory disorders , but its utility as a therapeutic agent is limited by its poor absorption , rapid metabolism and fast systemic elimination .
To apprehend these limitations , we propose to use highly bioavailable curcumin loaded solid lipid nanoparticles ( C-SLNs ) for the treatment of RA .
METHODS : In the present study , the protective effect of curcumin and its SLNs was evaluated in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ -induced arthritis in rats .
RESULTS : Arthritic rats exhibited marked decrease in paw withdrawal threshold in Randall-Selitto and von Frey hair test along with decreased reaction time in hot plate .
Arthritic rats also showed significant joint hyperalgesia , joint stiffness and increased paw volume along with marked decrease in mobility score .
Arthritic rats showed a significant increase in blood leukocyte count , oxidative-nitrosative stress , tumour necrosis factor-α , C-reactive protein , cyclic citrullinated peptide antibody levels and radiological alterations in tibiotarsal joint .
C-SLN administration ( 10 and 30 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ curcumin ( 10 and 30 mg/kg ) , significantly and dose dependently ameliorated various symptoms of arthritis in rats , improved biochemical markers and preserved radiological alterations in joints of arthritic rats .
CONCLUSIONS : The current findings suggest the protective potential of curcumin-SLNs in ameliorating CFA-induced arthritis in rats through attenuation of oxido-inflammatory and immunomodulatory cascade .
Further , the results emphasize that SLNs are a novel approach to deliver curcumin into the inflamed joints and improve its biopharmaceutical performance .

BACKGROUND: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA), a chronic and systemic inflammation, results in destruction of joints and cartilages. Effectiveness of curcumin has been established in a wide variety of inflammatory disorders, but its utility as a therapeutic agent is limited by its poor absorption, rapid metabolism and fast systemic elimination. To apprehend these limitations, we propose to use highly bioavailable curcumin loaded solid lipid nanoparticles (C-SLNs) for the treatment of RA.
METHODS: In the present study, the protective effect of curcumin and its SLNs was evaluated in complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA)-induced arthritis in rats.
RESULTS: Arthritic rats exhibited marked decrease in paw withdrawal threshold in Randall-Selitto and von Frey hair test along with decreased reaction time in hot plate. Arthritic rats also showed significant joint hyperalgesia, joint stiffness and increased paw volume along with marked decrease in mobility score. Arthritic rats showed a significant increase in blood leukocyte count, oxidative-nitrosative stress, tumour necrosis factor-α, C-reactive protein, cyclic citrullinated peptide antibody levels and radiological alterations in tibiotarsal joint. C-SLN administration (10 and 30 mg/kg), when compared with free curcumin (10 and 30 mg/kg), significantly and dose dependently ameliorated various symptoms of arthritis in rats, improved biochemical markers and preserved radiological alterations in joints of arthritic rats.
CONCLUSIONS: The current findings suggest the protective potential of curcumin-SLNs in ameliorating CFA-induced arthritis in rats through attenuation of oxido-inflammatory and immunomodulatory cascade. Further, the results emphasize that SLNs are a novel approach to deliver curcumin into the inflamed joints and improve its biopharmaceutical performance.


greenmedinfo--2020-05-13--The study demonstrated that curcumin was a potent protective compound against the nicotine-induced s

The study demonstrated that curcumin was a potent protective compound against the nicotine-induced stress.

Nicotine aggravates many chronic inflammatory disorders in females under the protein-malnourished conditions because women are more susceptible to nicotine-induced diseases due to their low innate immunity .
Although curcumin have been found to obliterate the nicotine-induced disorders through its anti-nicotinic activity under the protein-malnourished condition , the exact mechanism of protective action of curcumin is still unclear .
Female Wister rats maintained under the normal and protein-restricted diets in two separate groups were injected with the effective dose of nicotine-tartrate ( 2.5 mg/kg body weight/day , subcutaneously ) and supplemented with the effective dose of curcumin ( 80 mg/kg body @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The morphology of red blood cells ( RBCs ) , molecular docking , lipid profile and activities of antioxidant enzymes in tissues , cytokines profiling ( T helper cell type 1 ; and T helper cell type 2 ) , mRNA and protein expression of cytokines , transcription factors ( activator protein 1 ) , regulatory molecule ( P ( 53 ) ) , growth factors ( Granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor ; Transforming growth factor beta ) were determined to establish the mechanism ofactions of curcumin against the nicotine-mediated stress in the protein-malnourished @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bound to the Histidine 87 residues of haemoglobin with a greater binding affinity and significantly protected the RBCs against nicotine-induced damage .
Furthermore , the nicotine-mediated disruption of Th1/Th2 balance through upregulation and downregulation of different factors was effectively restored by curcumin under the protein-malnourished conditions .
The study demonstrated that curcumin was a potent protective compound against the nicotine-induced stress and offereda probable biochemical and immunomodulatory mechanism of protective action of curcumin .

Nicotine aggravates many chronic inflammatory disorders in females under the protein-malnourished conditions because women are more susceptible to nicotine-induced diseases due to their low innate immunity. Although curcumin have been found to obliterate the nicotine-induced disorders through its anti-nicotinic activity under the protein-malnourished condition, the exact mechanism of protective action of curcumin is still unclear. Female Wister rats maintained under the normal and protein-restricted diets in two separate groups were injected with the effective dose of nicotine-tartrate (2.5 mg/kg body weight/day, subcutaneously) and supplemented with the effective dose of curcumin (80 mg/kg body weight/day, orally) for 21 days. The morphology of red blood cells (RBCs), molecular docking, lipid profile and activities of antioxidant enzymes in tissues, cytokines profiling (T helper cell type 1; and T helper cell type 2), mRNA and protein expression of cytokines, transcription factors (activator protein 1), regulatory molecule (P(53)), growth factors (Granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor; Transforming growth factor beta) were determined to establish the mechanism ofactions of curcumin against the nicotine-mediated stress in the protein-malnourished rats. This study revealed that curcumin bound to the Histidine 87 residues of haemoglobin with a greater binding affinity and significantly protected the RBCs against nicotine-induced damage. Furthermore, the nicotine-mediated disruption of Th1/Th2 balance through upregulation and downregulation of different factors was effectively restored by curcumin under the protein-malnourished conditions. The study demonstrated that curcumin was a potent protective compound against the nicotine-induced stress and offereda probable biochemical and immunomodulatory mechanism of protective action of curcumin.