greenmedinfo--2020-11-19--Selenium-enriched probiotics can protect Wistar rats from oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis,

Selenium-enriched probiotics can protect Wistar rats from oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis, and liver fibrosis induced by heat stress.

The purpose of this study was to elucidate the effects of selenium-enriched probiotics on the liver of heat-stressed Wistar rats .
Ten-week-old male rats were assigned to four groups : control ( Con ) ; high temperature ( HT ) ; high temperature plus probiotics ( HT + P : 10 CFU/mL Lactobacillus acidophilus and 10 CFU/mL Saccharomyces cerevisiae ) ; or high temperature plus selenium-enriched probiotics ( HT + SeP : 0.3 mg/kg Se , 10 CFU/mL L. acidophilus and 10 CFU/mL S. cerevisiae ) .
The HT , HT + P , and HT + SeP groups were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ °C ) , while the control group was kept at room temperature ( 25 °C ) .
After 42 days of thermal exposure , blood and liver tissues were collected and analyzed for morphologicaland molecular markers of liver physiology .
The body weight of rats in the HT group decreased but liver weight and live index were increased .
Histological examination showed dilation of liver sinusoids and congestion of interstitial veins in HT group .
Moreover , the histomorphology of the liver in HT + P and HT + SeP groups was restored @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , ALP , LDH , and hepatic MDA level decreased significantly , but the serum total protein level and the liver SOD , T-AOC , and GSH-PX activities were increased significantly relative to the HT group .
In addition , the mRNA level of Gpx1 , SOD1 , Nrf2 , and Bcl-2 was significantly increased , while the expression level of Bax , IL-6 , TNF-α , COX-2 , NF-κB , α-SMA , TGFβ1 , Collagen I , HSP70 , and HSP90 was significantly decreased in liver tissues after SeP supplementation .
We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from oxidative stress , inflammation , apoptosis , and liver fibrosis induced by heat stress .

The purpose of this study was to elucidate the effects of selenium-enriched probiotics on the liver of heat-stressed Wistar rats. Ten-week-old male rats were assigned to four groups: control (Con); high temperature (HT); high temperature plus probiotics (HT + P: 10 CFU/mL Lactobacillus acidophilus and 10 CFU/mL Saccharomyces cerevisiae); or high temperature plus selenium-enriched probiotics (HT + SeP: 0.3 mg/kg Se, 10 CFU/mL L. acidophilus and 10 CFU/mL S. cerevisiae). The HT, HT + P, and HT + SeP groups were maintained at higher ambient temperature (40-42 °C), while the control group was kept at room temperature (25 °C). After 42 days of thermal exposure, blood and liver tissues were collected and analyzed for morphologicaland molecular markers of liver physiology. The body weight of rats in the HT group decreased but liver weight and live index were increased. Histological examination showed dilation of liver sinusoids and congestion of interstitial veins in HT group. Moreover, the histomorphology of the liver in HT + P and HT + SeP groups was restored, and the serum AST, ALT, ALP, LDH, and hepatic MDA level decreased significantly, but the serum total protein level and the liver SOD, T-AOC, and GSH-PX activities were increased significantly relative to the HT group. In addition, the mRNA level of Gpx1, SOD1, Nrf2, and Bcl-2 was significantly increased, while the expression level of Bax, IL-6, TNF-α, COX-2, NF-κB, α-SMA, TGFβ1, Collagen I, HSP70, and HSP90 was significantly decreased in liver tissues after SeP supplementation. We concluded that SeP can protect Wistar rats from oxidative stress,inflammation, apoptosis, and liver fibrosis induced by heat stress.


greenmedinfo--2020-11-19--Role of vitamin D in preventing of COVID-19 infection, progression and severity.

The outbreak of COVID-19 has created a global public health crisis .
Little is known about the protective factors of this infection .
Therefore , preventive health measures that can reduce the risk of infection , progression and severity are desperately needed .
This review discussed the possible roles of vitamin D in reducing the risk of COVID-19 and other acute respiratory tract infections and severity .
Moreover , this study determined the correlation of vitamin D levels with COVID-19 cases and deaths in 20 European countries as of 20 May 2020 .
A significant negative correlation ( p=0.033 ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ levels and COVID-19 cases per one million population in European countries .
However , the correlation of vitamin D with COVID-19 deaths of these countries was not significant .
Some retrospective studies demonstrated a correlation between vitamin D status and COVID-19 severity and mortality , while other studies did not find the correlation when confounding variables are adjusted .
Several studies demonstrated the role of vitamin D in reducing the risk of acute viral respiratory tract infections and pneumonia .
These include direct inhibition with viral replication or with anti-inflammatory or immunomodulatory ways @ @ @ @ @ @ @ supplementation has been shown as safe and effective against acute respiratory tract infections .
Thus , people who are at higher risk of vitamin D deficiency during this global pandemic should consider taking vitamin D supplements to maintain the circulating 25 ( OH ) D in the optimal levels ( 75-125nmol/L ) .
In conclusion , there is not enough evidence on the association between vitamin D levels and COVID-19 severity and mortality .
Therefore , randomized control trials and cohort studies are necessary to test this hypothesis .

The outbreak of COVID-19 has created a global public health crisis. Little is known about the protective factors of this infection. Therefore, preventive health measures that can reduce the risk of infection, progression and severity are desperately needed. This review discussed the possible roles of vitamin D in reducing the risk of COVID-19 and other acute respiratory tract infections and severity. Moreover, this study determined the correlation of vitamin D levels with COVID-19 cases and deaths in 20 European countries as of 20 May 2020. A significant negative correlation (p=0.033) has been observed between mean vitamin D levels and COVID-19 cases per one million population in European countries. However, the correlation of vitamin D with COVID-19 deaths of these countries was not significant. Some retrospective studies demonstrated a correlation between vitamin D status and COVID-19 severity and mortality, while other studies did not find the correlation when confounding variables are adjusted. Several studies demonstrated the role of vitamin D in reducing the risk of acute viral respiratory tract infections and pneumonia. These include direct inhibition with viral replication or with anti-inflammatory or immunomodulatory ways. In the meta-analysis, vitamin D supplementation has been shown as safe and effective against acute respiratory tract infections. Thus, people who are at higher risk of vitamin D deficiency during this global pandemic should consider taking vitamin D supplements to maintain the circulating 25(OH)D in the optimal levels (75-125nmol/L). In conclusion, there is not enough evidence on the association between vitamin D levels and COVID-19 severity and mortality. Therefore, randomized control trials and cohort studies are necessary to test this hypothesis.


greenmedinfo--2020-11-19--The long history of vitamin C: From prevention of the common cold to potential aid in the treatment

The long history of vitamin C: From prevention of the common cold to potential aid in the treatment of COVID-19.

From Pauling 's theories to the present , considerable understanding has been acquired of both the physiological role of vitamin C and of the impact of vitamin C supplementation on the health .
Although it is well known that a balanced diet which satisfies the daily intake of vitamin C positively affects the immune system and reduces susceptibility to infections , available data do not support the theory that oral vitamin C supplements boost immunity .
No current clinical recommendations support the possibility of significantly decreasing the risk of respiratory infections by using high-dose supplements of vitamin C in a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ subgroups ( e.g.
, athletes or the military ) and in subjects with a low plasma vitamin C concentration a supplementation may be justified .
Furthermore , in categories at high risk of infection ( i.e.
, the obese , diabetics , the elderly , etc . )
, a vitamin C supplementation can modulate inflammation , with potential positive effects on immune response to infections .
The impact of an extra oral intake of vitamin C on the duration of a cold and the prevention or treatment of pneumonia is still questioned @ @ @ @ @ @ @ studies , vitamin C infusion has recently been hypothesized as a treatment for COVID-19 hospitalized patients .
In this review , we focused on the effects of vitamin C on immune function , summarizing the most relevant studies from the prevention and treatment of common respiratory diseases to the use of vitamin C in critical illness conditions , with the aim of clarifying its potential application during an acute SARS-CoV2 infection .

From Pauling's theories to the present, considerable understanding has been acquired of both the physiological role of vitamin C and of the impact of vitamin C supplementation on the health. Although it is well known that a balanced diet which satisfies the daily intake of vitamin C positively affects the immune system and reduces susceptibility to infections, available data do not support the theory that oral vitamin C supplements boost immunity. No current clinical recommendations support the possibility of significantly decreasing the risk of respiratory infections by using high-dose supplements of vitamin C in a well-nourished general population. Only in restricted subgroups (e.g., athletes or the military) and in subjects with a low plasma vitamin C concentration a supplementation may be justified. Furthermore, in categories at high risk of infection (i.e., the obese, diabetics, the elderly, etc.), a vitamin C supplementation can modulate inflammation, with potential positive effects on immune response to infections. The impact of an extra oral intake of vitamin C on the duration of a cold and the prevention or treatment of pneumonia is still questioned, while, based on critical illness studies, vitamin C infusion has recently been hypothesized as a treatment for COVID-19 hospitalized patients. In this review, we focused on the effects of vitamin C on immune function, summarizing the most relevant studies from the prevention and treatment of common respiratory diseases to the use of vitamin C in critical illness conditions, with the aim of clarifying its potential application during an acute SARS-CoV2 infection.


greenmedinfo--2020-11-19--Early nutritional interventions with zinc, selenium and vitamin D for raising anti-viral resistance

Early nutritional interventions with zinc, selenium and vitamin D for raising anti-viral resistance against progressive COVID-19.

OBJECTIVES : The novel coronavirus infection ( COVID-19 ) conveys a serious threat globally to health and economy because of a lack of vaccines and specific treatments .
A common factor for conditions that predispose for serious progress is a low-grade inflammation , e.g.
, as seen in metabolic syndrome , diabetes , and heart failure , to which micronutrient deficiencies may contribute .
The aim of the present article was to explore the usefulness of early micronutrient intervention , with focus on zinc , selenium , and vitamin D , to relieve escalation of COVID-19 .
METHODS : We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the period 2010-2020 on zinc , selenium , and vitamin D , and corona and related virus infections .
RESULTS : There were a few studies providing direct evidence on associations between zinc , selenium , and vitamin D , and COVID-19 .
Adequate supply of zinc , selenium , and vitamin D is essential for resistance to other viral infections , immune function , and reduced inflammation .
Hence , it is suggested that nutrition intervention securing an adequate status might protect against the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 ( Severe Acute Respiratory @ @ @ @ @ @ @ course of COVID-19 .
CONCLUSION : We recommended initiation of adequate supplementation in high-risk areas and/or soon after the time of suspected infection with SARS-CoV-2 .
Subjects in high-risk groups should have high priority as regards this nutritive adjuvant therapy , which should be started prior to administration of specific and supportive medical measures .

OBJECTIVES: The novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19) conveys a serious threat globally to health and economy because of a lack of vaccines and specific treatments. A common factor for conditions that predispose for serious progress is a low-grade inflammation, e.g., as seen in metabolic syndrome, diabetes, and heart failure, to which micronutrient deficiencies may contribute. The aim of the present article was to explore the usefulness of early micronutrient intervention, with focus on zinc, selenium, and vitamin D, to relieve escalation of COVID-19.
METHODS: We conducted an online search for articles published in the period 2010-2020 on zinc, selenium, and vitamin D, and corona and related virus infections.
RESULTS: There were a few studies providing direct evidence on associations between zinc, selenium, and vitamin D, and COVID-19. Adequate supply of zinc, selenium, and vitamin D is essential for resistance to other viral infections, immune function, and reduced inflammation. Hence, it is suggested that nutrition intervention securing an adequate status might protect against the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome - coronavirus-2) and mitigate the course of COVID-19.
CONCLUSION: We recommended initiation of adequate supplementation in high-risk areas and/or soon after the time of suspected infection with SARS-CoV-2. Subjects in high-risk groups should have high priority as regards this nutritive adjuvant therapy, which should be started prior to administration of specific and supportive medical measures.


greenmedinfo--2020-11-19--Camu-camu seeds as a novel source of bioactive compounds with promising antimalarial and antischisto

Camu-camu seeds as a novel source of bioactive compounds with promising antimalarial and antischistosomicidal properties.

Parasitic diseases have attracted worldwide attention of their consequent impact on mortality and morbidity .
Accordingly , several plants have been screened for antiparasitic activity aiming to create new alternatives for treatment .
These diseases have been neglected and have not attracted worldwide attention ( nowadays ) , the health concerns are focused in chronic diseases , but it is necessary to focus on parasitic diseases and look for prophylactic alternatives , such as plant extracts .
Although camu-camu ( Myrciaria dubia ) seeds are a rich source of antioxidant antimutagenic , cytotoxic , anti-inflammatory , antimicrobial , antihypertensive and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their antiparasitic effects .
Thus , in the present study we aimed to evaluate five extracts of camu-camu seeds ( 100 % water , 100 % ethyl alcohol , 50 % water + 50 % ethyl alcohol , 25 % water + 75 % ethyl alcohol , and 75 % water + 25 % ethyl alcohol ) in relation to their in vitro antimalarial , antischistosomicidal , leishmanicidal and anti-hemolytic effects .
The extracts exhibited antischistosomicidal ( EDvalues from 418.4 to > 1000.0 µg/mL ) and antimalarial activities ( ICvalues from 24.2 to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 3D7 strains in all intra-erythrocytic stages .
Correlation analysis showed that the toxic effects may mainly be attributed to methylvescalagin ( r = -0.548 to -0.951 , p

Parasitic diseases have attracted worldwide attention of their consequent impact on mortality and morbidity. Accordingly, several plants have been screened for antiparasitic activity aiming to create new alternatives for treatment. These diseases have been neglected and have not attracted worldwide attention (nowadays), the health concerns are focused in chronic diseases, but it is necessary to focus on parasitic diseases and look for prophylactic alternatives, such as plant extracts. Although camu-camu (Myrciaria dubia) seeds are a rich source of antioxidant antimutagenic, cytotoxic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antihypertensive and neuroprotective compounds, nothing is known about their antiparasitic effects. Thus, in the present study we aimed to evaluate five extracts of camu-camu seeds (100% water, 100% ethyl alcohol, 50% water + 50% ethyl alcohol, 25% water + 75% ethyl alcohol, and 75% water + 25% ethyl alcohol) in relation to their in vitro antimalarial, antischistosomicidal, leishmanicidal and anti-hemolytic effects. The extracts exhibited antischistosomicidal (EDvalues from 418.4 to>1000.0 µg/mL) and antimalarial activities (ICvalues from 24.2 to 240.8 µg/mL) for both W2 and 3D7 strains in all intra-erythrocytic stages. Correlation analysis showed that the toxic effects may mainly be attributed to methylvescalagin (r = -0.548 to -0.951, p < 0.05) and 2,4-dihydroxybenzoic acid (r = -0.612 to -0.917, p < 0.05) contents. Moreover, the anti-hemolytic effect was associated to methylvescalagin (r = -0.597, p < 0.05). No toxic effects were observed for leishmaniasis and IMR90 normal cells. Herein, methylvescalagin was the bioactive compound of greatest interest once it presented simultaneous relation with antiparasitic and anti-hemolytic activities.


greenmedinfo--2020-11-19--Therapeutic effects of meditation, yoga, and mindfulness-based interventions for chronic symptoms of

Therapeutic effects of meditation, yoga, and mindfulness-based interventions for chronic symptoms of mild traumatic brain injury.

BACKGROUND : Chronic symptoms of mild traumatic brain injury ( mTBI ) vary greatly and are difficult to treat ; we investigate the impact of meditation , yoga , and mindfulness-based interventions on this treatment group .
METHOD : Search included four databases , allowing studies of any design containing pre/post outcomes for meditation , yoga , or mindfulness-based interventions in people suffering from brain injury acquired by mechanical force .
Analyses used robust variance estimation to assess overall effects and random-effects models for selected outcomes ; we evaluated both between- and within-group changes .
RESULTS : Twenty studies ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Results revealed significant improvement of overall symptoms compared to controls ( d = 0.41 ; 95 % CI [ 0.04 , 0.77 ] ; τ = 0.06 ) , with significant within-group improvements in mental health ( d = 0.39 ) , physical health ( d = 0.39 ) , cognitive performance ( d = 0.24 ) , quality of life ( d = 0.39 ) , and self-related processing ( d = 0.38 ) .
Symptoms showing greatest improvement were fatigue ( d = 0.96 ) and depression ( d = 0.40 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Study quality concerns include lack of randomisation , blinding , and recording of adverse events .
CONCLUSIONS : This first-ever meta-analysis on meditation , yoga , and mindfulness-based interventions for chronic symptoms of mTBI offers hope but highlights the need for rigorous new trials to advance clinical applications and to explore mechanistic pathways .

BACKGROUND: Chronic symptoms of mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) vary greatly and are difficult to treat; we investigate the impact of meditation, yoga, and mindfulness-based interventions on this treatment group.
METHOD: Search included four databases, allowing studies of any design containing pre/post outcomes for meditation, yoga, or mindfulness-based interventions in people suffering from brain injury acquired by mechanical force. Analyses used robust variance estimation to assess overall effects and random-effects models for selected outcomes; we evaluated both between- and within-group changes.
RESULTS: Twenty studies (N = 539) were included. Results revealed significant improvement of overall symptoms compared to controls (d = 0.41; 95% CI [0.04, 0.77]; τ = 0.06), with significant within-group improvements in mental health (d = 0.39), physical health (d = 0.39), cognitive performance (d = 0.24), quality of life (d = 0.39), and self-related processing (d = 0.38). Symptoms showing greatest improvement were fatigue (d = 0.96) and depression (d = 0.40). Findings were homogeneous across studies. Study quality concerns include lack of randomisation, blinding, and recording of adverse events.
CONCLUSIONS: This first-ever meta-analysis on meditation, yoga, and mindfulness-based interventions for chronic symptoms of mTBI offers hope but highlights the need for rigorous new trials to advance clinical applications and to explore mechanistic pathways.


greenmedinfo--2020-11-19--A mobile health mindfulness intervention for women with moderate to moderately severe postpartum dep

A mobile health mindfulness intervention for women with moderate to moderately severe postpartum depressive symptoms.

BACKGROUND : Approximately 20 % of women suffer from postpartum depression ( PPD ) .
Due to barriers such as limited access to care , half of the women with PPD do not receive treatment .
Therefore , it is critical to identify effective and scalable interventions .
Traditional mindfulness programs have been effective in reducing depressive symptoms , however access remains a barrier .
A self-paced mobile health ( mHealth ) mindfulness program may fit the lifestyle of busy mothers who are unable to attend in-person classes .
However , little is known regarding the feasibility or efficacy of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ depressive symptoms .
OBJECTIVE : This study aims to assess the feasibility , acceptability , and preliminary efficacy of an mHealth mindfulness intervention for postpartum women with moderate to moderately severe depressive symptoms .
METHODS : We conducted a single-arm feasibility trial of an mHealth mindfulness intervention within Kaiser Permanente Northern California ( KPNC ) , a large integrated health care system .
Participants were identified through clinician referral and electronic health records via KPNC 's universal perinatal depression screening program and recruited by the study team .
Inclusion criteria included the following @ @ @ @ @ @ @ postpartum with a Patient Health Questionnaire ( PHQ-8 ) score of 10 to 19 , and no regular mindfulness/meditation practice .
Participants were asked to use a mindfulness app , Headspace , 10 to 20 min/day for 6 weeks .
Baseline and postintervention surveys captured data on patient-reported outcomes ( depression and stress symptoms , sleep quality , and mindfulness ) .
Semistructured interviews captured acceptability .
Retention and adherence were used to assess feasibility .
RESULTS : Of the 115 women who were contacted and met the eligibility criteria or declined participation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ % ) were enrolled .
In addition , 70 % ( 19/27 ) completed the study .
The mean age of participants was 31 years ( SD 5.2 ) , 30 % ( 8/27 ) were non-Hispanic White , and , on average , participants were 12.3 weeks postpartum ( SD 5.7 ) .
Of the women who completed the study , 100 % ( 19/19 ) used the Headspace app at least once , and nearly half ( 9/19 , 47 % ) used the app on≥50 % of the days during @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 16 participants who completed the postintervention interview , 69 % ( 11/16 ) reported that they were very or extremely satisfied with the app .
Interviews indicated that women appreciated the variety of meditations and felt that the program led to reduced anxiety and improved sleep .
Significant improvements in pre- and postintervention scores were observed for depressive symptoms ( PHQ-8 : -3.8 , P=.004 ) , perceived stress ( 10-item Perceived Stress Scale : -6.0 , P=.005 ) , and sleep quality ( Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index : -2.1 , P=.02 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in mindfulness were also significant ( Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire-Short Form : 10.9 , P=.01 ) .
CONCLUSIONS : An mHealth mindfulness intervention for postpartum women with moderate to moderately severe depressive symptoms is feasible and acceptable .
An efficacy trial is warranted .

BACKGROUND: Approximately 20% of women suffer from postpartum depression (PPD). Due to barriers such as limited access to care, half of the women with PPD do not receive treatment. Therefore, it is critical to identify effective and scalable interventions. Traditional mindfulness programs have been effective in reducing depressive symptoms, however access remains a barrier. A self-paced mobile health (mHealth) mindfulness program may fit the lifestyle of busy mothers who are unable to attend in-person classes. However, little is known regarding the feasibility or efficacy of mHealth mindfulness interventions in postpartum women with depressive symptoms.
OBJECTIVE: This study aims to assess the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy of an mHealth mindfulness intervention for postpartum women with moderate to moderately severe depressive symptoms.
METHODS: We conducted a single-arm feasibility trial of an mHealth mindfulness intervention within Kaiser Permanente Northern California (KPNC), a large integrated health care system. Participants were identified through clinician referral and electronic health records via KPNC's universal perinatal depression screening program and recruited by the study team. Inclusion criteria included the following: English-speaking, up to 6 months postpartum with a Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-8) score of 10 to 19, and no regular mindfulness/meditation practice. Participants were asked to use a mindfulness app, Headspace, 10 to 20 min/day for 6 weeks. Baseline and postintervention surveys captured data on patient-reported outcomes (depression and stress symptoms, sleep quality, and mindfulness). Semistructured interviews captured acceptability. Retention and adherence were used to assess feasibility.
RESULTS: Of the 115 women who were contacted and met the eligibility criteria or declined participation before eligibility assessment, 27 (23%) were enrolled. In addition, 70% (19/27) completed the study. The mean age of participants was 31 years (SD 5.2), 30% (8/27) were non-Hispanic White, and, on average, participants were 12.3 weeks postpartum (SD 5.7). Of the women who completed the study, 100% (19/19) used the Headspace app at least once, and nearly half (9/19, 47%) used the app on≥50% of the days during the 6-week intervention period. Of the 16 participants who completed the postintervention interview, 69% (11/16) reported that they were very or extremely satisfied with the app. Interviews indicated that women appreciated the variety of meditations and felt that the program led to reduced anxiety and improved sleep. Significant improvements in pre- and postintervention scores were observed for depressive symptoms (PHQ-8: -3.8, P=.004), perceived stress (10-item Perceived Stress Scale: -6.0, P=.005), and sleep quality (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index: -2.1, P=.02, indicating less sleep disturbance). Improvements in mindfulness were also significant (Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire-Short Form: 10.9, P=.01).
CONCLUSIONS: An mHealth mindfulness intervention for postpartum women with moderate to moderately severe depressive symptoms is feasible and acceptable. An efficacy trial is warranted.


greenmedinfo--2020-11-19--Pilot study of compassion meditation training to improve well-being among older adults.

OBJECTIVES : Compassion meditation ( CM ) training has demonstrated potential in improving well-being and psychosocial functioning .
However , most prior studies of CM training have focused on younger adults .
The generalizability of the effectiveness of CM training with older adults requires further study .
This pilot study was intended to inform future randomized controlled studies of CM training in older adults .
METHODS : Participants included 24 older adults who attended a 10-week group CM training .
Exploratory outcome measures were administered prior to , during , and after the intervention .
Participants also completed logs of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ descriptive comments in response to open-ended questions administered at the end of treatment .
RESULTS : High treatment completion rates ( 87.5 % ) and reported adherence ( 85.7 % of assigned meditation ) were observed .
Descriptive feedback from participants indicated older adults are interested in and capable of learning and applying new concepts and skills in support of their well-being .
Pre- to post-intervention changes were explored with a variety of self-report measures .
Weekly journals suggested increased feelings of love , closeness , or trust , and decreased feelings of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
CONCLUSIONS : These findings provide preliminary support for the feasibility of CM training in community-dwelling older adults , and suggest the need for future efficacy and effectiveness clinical trials .
CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS : CM training offers potential benefits for improving well-being among older adults , and , as an example of a strengths-based approach , can be tailored to the specific needs of older adults .

OBJECTIVES: Compassion meditation (CM) training has demonstrated potential in improving well-being and psychosocial functioning. However, most prior studies of CM training have focused on younger adults. The generalizability of the effectiveness of CM training with older adults requires further study. This pilot study was intended to inform future randomized controlled studies of CM training in older adults.
METHODS: Participants included 24 older adults who attended a 10-week group CM training. Exploratory outcome measures were administered prior to, during, and after the intervention. Participants also completed logs of mood and meditation practice, and provided descriptive comments in response to open-ended questions administered at the end of treatment.
RESULTS: High treatment completion rates (87.5%) and reported adherence (85.7% of assigned meditation) were observed. Descriptive feedback from participants indicated older adults are interested in and capable of learning and applying new concepts and skills in support of their well-being. Pre- to post-intervention changes were explored with a variety of self-report measures. Weekly journals suggested increased feelings of love, closeness, or trust, and decreased feelings of stress, nervousness, or being overwhelmed.
CONCLUSIONS: These findings provide preliminary support for the feasibility of CM training in community-dwelling older adults, and suggest the need for future efficacy and effectiveness clinical trials.
CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: CM training offers potential benefits for improving well-being among older adults, and, as an example of a strengths-based approach, can be tailored to the specific needs of older adults.


greenmedinfo--2020-11-21--Apigenin as tumor suppressor in cancers: biotherapeutic activity, nanodelivery, and mechanisms with

Apigenin as tumor suppressor in cancers: biotherapeutic activity, nanodelivery, and mechanisms with emphasis on pancreatic cancer.

Pancreatic cancer is the most lethal malignancy of the gastrointestinal tract .
Due to its propensity for early local and distant spread , affected patients possess extremely poor prognosis .
Currently applied treatments are not effective enough to eradicate all cancer cells , and minimize their migration .
Besides , these treatments are associated with adverse effects on normal cells and organs .
These therapies are not able to increase the overall survival rate of patients ; hence , finding novel adjuvants or alternatives is so essential .
Up to now , medicinal herbs were utilized for therapeutic goals .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ were employed for cancer treatment .
Of them , apigenin , as a bioactive flavonoid that possesses numerous biological properties ( e.g.
, anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant effects ) , has shown substantial anticancer activity .
It seems that apigenin is capable of suppressing the proliferation of cancer cellsthe induction of cell cycle arrest and apoptosis .
Besides , apigenin inhibits metastasis via down-regulation of matrix metalloproteinases and the Akt signaling pathway .
In pancreatic cancer cells , apigenin sensitizes cells in chemotherapy , and affects molecular pathways such as the hypoxia inducible factor @ @ @ @ @ @ @ factor ( VEGF ) , and glucose transporter-1 ( GLUT-1 ) .
Herein , the biotherapeutic activity of apigenin and its mechanisms toward cancer cells are presented in the current review to shed some light on anti-tumor activity of apigenin in different cancers , with an emphasis on pancreatic cancer .

Pancreatic cancer is the most lethal malignancy of the gastrointestinal tract. Due to its propensity for early local and distant spread, affected patients possess extremely poor prognosis. Currently applied treatments are not effective enough to eradicate all cancer cells, and minimize their migration. Besides, these treatments are associated with adverse effects on normal cells and organs. These therapies are not able to increase the overall survival rate of patients; hence, finding novel adjuvants or alternatives is so essential. Up to now, medicinal herbs were utilized for therapeutic goals. Herbal-based medicine, as traditional biotherapeutics, were employed for cancer treatment. Of them, apigenin, as a bioactive flavonoid that possesses numerous biological properties (e.g., anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant effects), has shown substantial anticancer activity. It seems that apigenin is capable of suppressing the proliferation of cancer cellsthe induction of cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. Besides, apigenin inhibits metastasis via down-regulation of matrix metalloproteinases and the Akt signaling pathway. In pancreatic cancer cells, apigenin sensitizes cells in chemotherapy, and affects molecular pathways such as the hypoxia inducible factor (HIF), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and glucose transporter-1 (GLUT-1). Herein, the biotherapeutic activity of apigenin and its mechanisms toward cancer cells are presented in the current review to shed some light on anti-tumor activity of apigenin in different cancers, with an emphasis on pancreatic cancer.


greenmedinfo--2020-11-21--Nobiletin alleviates ischemia/reperfusion injury in the kidney by activating PI3K/AKT pathway.

Recent studies have demonstrated that nobiletin ( NOB ) displays anti‑oxidative and anti‑apoptotic efficacies against multiple pathological insults .
However , the potential effects of NOB on the injury caused by ischemia and reperfusion ( I/R ) in the kidney remain undetermined .
In the present study , I/R injury was elicited by right kidney removal and left renal pedicel clamping for 45 min , followed by reperfusion for 24 h. NOB was added at the start of reperfusion .
Histological examination , detection of biomarkers in plasma , and measurement of apoptosis induced by endoplasmic reticulum stress ( ERS @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Additionally , the PI3K/AKT inhibitor LY294002 was also used in mechanistic experiments .
NOB pre‑treatment significantly reduced renal damage caused by I/R injury , as indicated by decreased serum levels of creatine , blood urea nitrogen and tubular injury scores .
Furthermore , NOB inhibited elevated ERS‑associated apoptosis , as evidenced by reduced apoptotic rates and ERS‑related signaling molecules ( such as , C/EBP homologous protein , caspase‑12 and glucose‑regulated protein of 78 kDa ) .
NOB increased phosphorylation of proteins in the PI3K/AKT pathway .
The inhibition of PI3K/AKT signaling with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of NOB during renal I/R insult .
In conclusion , NOB pre‑treatment may alleviate I/R injury in the kidney by inhibiting reactive oxygen species production and ERS‑induced apoptosis , partly through the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway .

Recent studies have demonstrated that nobiletin (NOB) displays anti‑oxidative and anti‑apoptotic efficacies against multiple pathological insults. However, the potential effects of NOB on the injury caused by ischemia and reperfusion (I/R) in the kidney remain undetermined. In the present study, I/R injury was elicited by right kidney removal and left renal pedicel clamping for 45 min, followed by reperfusion for 24 h. NOB was added at the start of reperfusion. Histological examination, detection of biomarkers in plasma, and measurement of apoptosis induced by endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) were used to evaluate renal injury. Additionally, the PI3K/AKT inhibitor LY294002 was also used in mechanistic experiments. NOB pre‑treatment significantly reduced renal damage caused by I/R injury, as indicated by decreased serum levels of creatine, blood urea nitrogen and tubular injury scores. Furthermore, NOB inhibited elevated ERS‑associated apoptosis, as evidenced by reduced apoptotic rates and ERS‑related signaling molecules (such as, C/EBP homologous protein, caspase‑12 and glucose‑regulated protein of 78 kDa). NOB increased phosphorylation of proteins in the PI3K/AKT pathway. The inhibition of PI3K/AKT signaling with pharmacological inhibitors could reverse the beneficial effects of NOB during renal I/R insult. In conclusion, NOB pre‑treatment may alleviate I/R injury in the kidney by inhibiting reactive oxygen species production and ERS‑induced apoptosis, partly through the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway.


greenmedinfo--2020-11-21--Study: Acupressure Eases Chronic Lower Back Pain

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greenmedinfo--2020-11-20--Berbamine synergistically enhances the antigrowth and proapoptotic effects of sorafenib on hepatocel

Berbamine synergistically enhances the antigrowth and proapoptotic effects of sorafenib on hepatocellular carcinoma cells.

Sorafenib ( SORA ) , a multi kinase inhibitor , is the standard first-line targeted therapy approved by the Food and Drug Administration for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma ( HCC ) .
However , emerging evidence from clinical practice indicates that SORA alone has only moderate antitumor effects and could not completely inhibit the progression of the disease .
Therefore , it is very necessary and urgent to develop novel combination therapy to improve the clinical outcomes of SORA .
The pharmacological study on the chemosensitizing effects of natural products has become a hotspot in recent years , which is commonly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ improve the effectiveness of drugs in clinical use .
Berbamine ( BBM ) has potential sensitizing effects in multiple chemotherapies and target therapy .
However , it remains unclarified whether the combination of BBM and SORA as a treatment could exert a synergistic effect on HCC cell lines .
In this study , we first investigated whether BBM can increase the sensitivity of HCC cell lines to SORA .
The results revealed that the combination of BBM and SORA could synergistically inhibit the growth of two HCC cell lines and promoted their apoptosis @ @ @ @ @ @ @ BBM exerted a dose-dependent inhibitory effect on the basal and IL-6-induced STAT3 activation of HCC cell lines .
In addition , the combined treatment of BBM and SORA synergistically suppressed STAT3 phosphorylation at Tyr705 and knockdown of STAT3 abolished the sensitization effect of BBM , indicating that BBM 's sensitization effect is mainly mediated by its inhibition of STAT3 .
These findings identify a new type of natural STAT3 inhibitor and provide a novel approach to the enhancement of SORA efficacy by blocking the activation of STAT3 .

Sorafenib (SORA), a multi kinase inhibitor, is the standard first-line targeted therapy approved by the Food and Drug Administration for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, emerging evidence from clinical practice indicates that SORA alone has only moderate antitumor effects and could not completely inhibit the progression of the disease. Therefore, it is very necessary and urgent to develop novel combination therapy to improve the clinical outcomes of SORA. The pharmacological study on the chemosensitizing effects of natural products has become a hotspot in recent years, which is commonly thought to be a potential way to improve the effectiveness of drugs in clinical use. Berbamine (BBM) has potential sensitizing effects in multiple chemotherapies and target therapy. However, it remains unclarified whether the combination of BBM and SORA as a treatment could exert a synergistic effect on HCC cell lines. In this study, we first investigated whether BBM can increase the sensitivity of HCC cell lines to SORA. The results revealed that the combination of BBM and SORA could synergistically inhibit the growth of two HCC cell lines and promoted their apoptosis. Mechanistically, our results showed that BBM exerted a dose-dependent inhibitory effect on the basal and IL-6-induced STAT3 activation of HCC cell lines. In addition, the combined treatment of BBM and SORA synergistically suppressed STAT3 phosphorylation at Tyr705 and knockdown of STAT3 abolished the sensitization effect of BBM, indicating that BBM's sensitization effect is mainly mediated by its inhibition of STAT3. These findings identify a new type of natural STAT3 inhibitor and provide a novel approach to the enhancement of SORA efficacy by blocking the activation of STAT3.


greenmedinfo--2020-11-20--Berberine improves intralipid-induced insulin resistance in murine.

Insulin resistance ( IR ) is a major metabolic risk factor even before the onset of hyperglycemia .
Recently , berberine ( BBR ) is found to improve hyperglycemia and IR .
In this study , we investigated whether BBR could improve IR independent of hyperglycemia .
Acute insulin-resistant state was induced in rats by systemic infusion of intralipid ( 6.6 % ) .
BBR was administered via different delivery routes before or after the beginning of a 2-h euglycemic-hyperinsulinemic clamp .
At the end of experiment , rats were sacrificed , gastrocnemius muscle was collected for detecting mitochondrial swelling @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as well as the mitochondrial permeability regulator cyclophilin D ( CypD ) protein expression .
We showed that BBR administration markedly ameliorated intralipid-induced IR without affecting blood glucose , which was accompanied by alleviated mitochondrial swelling in skeletal muscle .
We used human skeletal muscle cells ( HSMCs ) , AML12 hepatocytes , human umbilical vein endothelial cells , and CypD knockout mice to investigate metabolic and molecular alternations .
In either HSMCs or AML12 hepatocytes , BBR ( 5 μM ) abolished palmitate acid ( PA ) -induced increase of CypD protein @ @ @ @ @ @ @ IR was greatly attenuated and the beneficial effect of BBR was diminished .
Furthermore , we demonstrated that the inhibitory effect of BBR on intralipid-induced IR was mainly mediated by skeletal muscle , but not by intestine , liver , or microvasculature ; BBR administration suppressed intralipid-induced upregulation of CypD expression in skeletal muscle .
These results suggest that BBR alleviates intralipid-induced IR , which is related to the inhibition of CypD protein expression in skeletal muscle .

Insulin resistance (IR) is a major metabolic risk factor even before the onset of hyperglycemia. Recently, berberine (BBR) is found to improve hyperglycemia and IR. In this study, we investigated whether BBR could improve IR independent of hyperglycemia. Acute insulin-resistant state was induced in rats by systemic infusion of intralipid (6.6%). BBR was administered via different delivery routes before or after the beginning of a 2-h euglycemic-hyperinsulinemic clamp. At the end of experiment, rats were sacrificed, gastrocnemius muscle was collected for detecting mitochondrial swelling, phosphorylation of Akt and AMPK, as well as the mitochondrial permeability regulator cyclophilin D (CypD) protein expression. We showed that BBR administration markedly ameliorated intralipid-induced IR without affecting blood glucose, which was accompanied by alleviated mitochondrial swelling in skeletal muscle. We used human skeletal muscle cells (HSMCs), AML12 hepatocytes, human umbilical vein endothelial cells, and CypD knockout mice to investigate metabolic and molecular alternations. In either HSMCs or AML12 hepatocytes, BBR (5 μM) abolished palmitate acid (PA)-induced increase of CypD protein levels. In CypD-deficient mice, intralipid-induced IR was greatly attenuated and the beneficial effect of BBR was diminished. Furthermore, we demonstrated that the inhibitory effect of BBR on intralipid-induced IR was mainly mediated by skeletal muscle, but not by intestine, liver, or microvasculature; BBR administration suppressed intralipid-induced upregulation of CypD expression in skeletal muscle. These results suggest that BBR alleviates intralipid-induced IR, which is related to the inhibition of CypD protein expression in skeletal muscle.


greenmedinfo--2020-11-20--Berberine enhances L1 expression and axonal remyelination in rats after brachial plexus root avulsio

Berberine enhances L1 expression and axonal remyelination in rats after brachial plexus root avulsion.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE : Enhanced remyelination of the regenerated axons results in functional re-innervation and improved functional motor recovery after brachial plexus root avulsion ( BPRA ) .
The neural cell adhesion molecule L1 ( L1CAM , L1 ) regulates myelination and promotes regeneration after acute injury in the nervous system .
Berberine ( BBR ) can exert neuroprotective roles against the lesion .
Herein , we investigated whether berberine ( BBR ) can affect the expression of L1 and enhance the axonal remyelination in rats following BPRA .
METHODS : The surgical procedures were performed to build the rat @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and then , the rats were treated with BBR .
After the rehabilitation for 12 weeks , the musculocutaneous nerves were collected for quantitative real-time PCR , Western blot analysis , and histochemical and immunofluorescence staining .
RESULTS : We observed that , BBR treatment ameliorated the abnormal musculocutaneous nerve fibers morphology , up-regulated the L1 expression , increased the myelination-related genes , decreased the differentiated-associated genes , and up-regulated the phosphorylation of ERK .
CONCLUSION : These results suggest that BBR may enhance L1 expression and promote axonal remyelination after spinal root @ @

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Enhanced remyelination of the regenerated axons results in functional re-innervation and improved functional motor recovery after brachial plexus root avulsion (BPRA). The neural cell adhesion molecule L1 (L1CAM, L1) regulates myelination and promotes regeneration after acute injury in the nervous system. Berberine (BBR) can exert neuroprotective roles against the lesion. Herein, we investigated whether berberine (BBR) can affect the expression of L1 and enhance the axonal remyelination in rats following BPRA.
METHODS: The surgical procedures were performed to build the rat brachial plexus avulsion and re-implantation model, and then, the rats were treated with BBR. After the rehabilitation for 12 weeks, the musculocutaneous nerves were collected for quantitative real-time PCR, Western blot analysis, and histochemical and immunofluorescence staining.
RESULTS: We observed that, BBR treatment ameliorated the abnormal musculocutaneous nerve fibers morphology, up-regulated the L1 expression, increased the myelination-related genes, decreased the differentiated-associated genes, and up-regulated the phosphorylation of ERK.
CONCLUSION: These results suggest that BBR may enhance L1 expression and promote axonal remyelination after spinal root avulsion.


greenmedinfo--2020-11-20--The role of serum inflammatory cytokines and berberine in the insulin signaling pathway among women

The role of serum inflammatory cytokines and berberine in the insulin signaling pathway among women with polycystic ovary syndrome.

OBJECTIVE : To study the role of selected serum inflammatory cytokines and berberine in the insulin signaling pathway among women with polycystic ovary syndrome ( PCOS ) .
METHODS : Selected serum inflammatory cytokines were analyzed in the particle cells , which were interfered by berberine , from 78 infertile women who were to be treated with In Vitro Fertilization ( IVF ) /Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection-Embryo Transfer ( icsi-et ) .
Among them , 49 patients had PCOS infertility , and 29 were non-PCOS patients whose infertility resulted from fallopian tube and male factors .
The elisa method was used @ @ @ @ @ @ @ levels of inflammatory factors in the cells .
The correlations between the serum inflammatory cytokine expression levels and the corresponding clinical hormones were analyzed .
The changes in the expression ( mRNA and protein ) levels of the serum inflammatory cytokines were studied by real-time quantitative PCR and protein printing .
Fluorescence microscope and flow cytometry were used to detect the glucose uptake capacity of ovarian granulosa cells in PCOS patients under the action of insulin after berberine .
RESULTS : In the PCOS group , IL-17a ( P = 0.001 ) , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and IL-6 ( P = 0.035 ) were significantly higher than those in the non-PCOS group .
In the non-PCOS group , AMH level was negatively correlated with inflammatory cytokines IL-17a ( r = -0.819 ; P = 0.004 ) , IL-1a ( r = -0.716 ; P = 0.0.02 ) , IL-1b ( r = -0.678 ; P = 0.031 ) , IL-2 ( r = -0.765 ; P = 0.01 ) , and IL-8 ( r = -0.705 ; P = 0.023 ) .
However , in the PCOS group , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the levels of the examined inflammatory cytokines .
Berberine significantly reduced the expression level of mTOR mRNA ( P = 0.001 ) , and increased the expression level of IRS-1 mRNA ( P = 0.009 ) in the PCOS granule cells .
CONCLUSION : In this study , we find that the elevated levels of serum inflammatory factors IL-17a , IL-1Ra , and IL-6 cause women to be in a subclinical inflammatory state for a long time .
Abnormal changes in inflammatory factors alter their original negative correlations with AMH levels , thereby @ @ @ @ @ @ @ insulin resistance , destroying the normal ovulation and fertilization system of women , leading to polycystic ovary syndrome characterized by menstrual thinning and abnormal ovulation .
Berberine can improve the sensitivity of insulin by regulating the signal pathway of insulin receptor substrate-1 ( IRS-1 ) and mammalian target of rapamycin ( mTOR ) in PCOS patients and achieve a therapeutic effect of treating PCOS .

OBJECTIVE: To study the role of selected serum inflammatory cytokines and berberine in the insulin signaling pathway among women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
METHODS: Selected serum inflammatory cytokines were analyzed in the particle cells, which were interfered by berberine, from 78 infertile women who were to be treated with In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) /Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection-Embryo Transfer (icsi-et). Among them, 49 patients had PCOS infertility, and 29 were non-PCOS patients whose infertility resulted from fallopian tube and male factors. The elisa method was used to detect the changes in the expression levels of inflammatory factors in the cells. The correlations between the serum inflammatory cytokine expression levels and the corresponding clinical hormones were analyzed. The changes in the expression (mRNA and protein) levels of the serum inflammatory cytokines were studied by real-time quantitative PCR and protein printing. Fluorescence microscope and flow cytometry were used to detect the glucose uptake capacity of ovarian granulosa cells in PCOS patients under the action of insulin after berberine.
RESULTS: In the PCOS group, IL-17a (P = 0.001), IL-1Ra (P<0.0001), and IL-6 (P = 0.035) were significantly higher than those in the non-PCOS group. In the non-PCOS group, AMH level was negatively correlated with inflammatory cytokines IL-17a (r = -0.819;P = 0.004), IL-1a (r = -0.716;P = 0.0.02), IL-1b (r = -0.678;P = 0.031), IL-2 (r = -0.765;P = 0.01), and IL-8 (r = -0.705;P = 0.023). However, in the PCOS group, AMH levels were not significantly correlated with the levels of the examined inflammatory cytokines. Berberine significantly reduced the expression level of mTOR mRNA (P = 0.001), and increased the expression level of IRS-1 mRNA (P = 0.009) in the PCOS granule cells.
CONCLUSION: In this study, we find that the elevated levels of serum inflammatory factors IL-17a, IL-1Ra, and IL-6 cause women to be in a subclinical inflammatory state for a long time. Abnormal changes in inflammatory factors alter their original negative correlations with AMH levels, thereby weakening the metabolism of glycolipids, promoting insulin resistance, destroying the normal ovulation and fertilization system of women, leading to polycystic ovary syndrome characterized by menstrual thinning and abnormal ovulation. Berberine can improve the sensitivity of insulin by regulating the signal pathway of insulin receptor substrate-1 (IRS-1) and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) in PCOS patients and achieve a therapeutic effect of treating PCOS.


greenmedinfo--2020-11-20--Berberine attenuates Aβ-induced neuronal damage through regulating miR-188/NOS1 in Alzheimer's disea

Berberine attenuates Aβ-induced neuronal damage through regulating miR-188/NOS1 in Alzheimer's disease,

Alzheimer 's disease ( AD ) is a public health issue worldwide .
Berberine ( Ber ) acts as the neuroprotective role in an animal experiment of AD .
MicroRNA-188 ( miRNA-188 ) was reported to be decreased in primary hippocampal neurons of mice .
However , the roles and molecular basis of Ber and miRNA-188 in the treatment of AD need to be further explored .
In this study , 5 μM Ber treatment has little effect on cell viability .
Ber treatment or miR-188 overexpression expedited proliferation and inhibited caspase-3 activity and apoptotic rate in amyloid-beta ( Aβ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ MiR-188 was downregulated , and nitric oxide synthase 1 ( NOS1 ) was upregulatedin Aβ-induced BV2 and N2a cells .
NOS1 worked as the target of miR-188 .
NOS1 overturned miR-188-induced effects on cell viability , caspase-3 activity , and apoptotic rate in Aβ-induced BV2 and N2a cells .
Ber mitigated neuronal damage in Aβ-induced BV2 and N2a cells by miR-188/NOS1 axis .
These results suggested that Ber accelerated cell viability and suppressed caspase-3 activity and apoptotic rate possible by miR-188/NOS1 pathway , implying the treatment of Ber as an underlying effective drug @ @ @ @

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a public health issue worldwide. Berberine (Ber) acts as the neuroprotective role in an animal experiment of AD. MicroRNA-188 (miRNA-188) was reported to be decreased in primary hippocampal neurons of mice. However, the roles and molecular basis of Ber and miRNA-188 in the treatment of AD need to be further explored. In this study, 5 μM Ber treatment has little effect on cell viability. Ber treatment or miR-188 overexpression expedited proliferation and inhibited caspase-3 activity and apoptotic rate in amyloid-beta (Aβ)-treated BV2 and N2a cells. MiR-188 was downregulated, and nitric oxide synthase 1 (NOS1) was upregulatedin Aβ-induced BV2 and N2a cells. NOS1 worked as the target of miR-188. NOS1 overturned miR-188-induced effects on cell viability, caspase-3 activity, and apoptotic rate in Aβ-induced BV2 and N2a cells. Ber mitigated neuronal damage in Aβ-induced BV2 and N2a cells by miR-188/NOS1 axis. These results suggested that Ber accelerated cell viability and suppressed caspase-3 activity and apoptotic rate possible by miR-188/NOS1 pathway, implying the treatment of Ber as an underlying effective drug for AD patients.


greenmedinfo--2020-11-20--Promising anti-atherosclerotic effect of berberine.

Elevated levels of plasma cholesterol , impaired vascular wall , and presence of inflammatory macrophages are important atherogenic risk factors contributing to atherosclerotic plaque formation and progression .
The interventions modulating these risk factors have been found to protect against atherosclerosis development and to decrease atherosclerosis-related cardiovascular disorders .
Nutritional approaches involving supplements followed by improving dietary habits and lifestyle have become growingly attractive and acceptable methods used to control atherosclerosis risk factors , mainly high levels of plasma cholesterol .
There are a large number of studies that show berberine , a plant bioactive compound , could ameliorate atherosclerosis-related @ @ @ @ @ @ @ review , we put together this studies and provide integrated evidence that exhibits berberine has the potential atheroprotective effect through reducing increased levels of plasma cholesterol , particularly low-density lipoprotein ( LDL ) cholesterol ( LDL-C ) via LDL receptor ( LDLR ) -dependent and LDL receptor-independent mechanisms , inhibiting migration and inflammatory activity of macrophages , improving the functionality of endothelial cells via anti-oxidant activities , and suppressing proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells .
In conclusion , berberine can exert inhibitory effects on the atherosclerotic plaque development mainly through LDL-lowering activity @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
As the second achievement of this review , among the signaling pathways through which berberine regulates intracellular processes , AMP-activated protein kinase ( AMPK ) has a central and critical role , showing that enhancing activity of AMPK pathway can be considered as a promising therapeutic approach for atherosclerosis treatment .

Elevated levels of plasma cholesterol, impaired vascular wall, and presence of inflammatory macrophages are important atherogenic risk factors contributing to atherosclerotic plaque formation and progression. The interventions modulating these risk factors have been found to protect against atherosclerosis development and to decrease atherosclerosis-related cardiovascular disorders. Nutritional approaches involving supplements followed by improving dietary habits and lifestyle have become growingly attractive and acceptable methods used to control atherosclerosis risk factors, mainly high levels of plasma cholesterol. There are a large number of studies that show berberine, a plant bioactive compound, could ameliorate atherosclerosis-related risk factors. In the present literature review, we put together this studies and provide integrated evidence that exhibits berberine has the potential atheroprotective effect through reducing increased levels of plasma cholesterol, particularly low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol (LDL-C) via LDL receptor (LDLR)-dependent and LDL receptor-independent mechanisms, inhibiting migration and inflammatory activity of macrophages, improving the functionality of endothelial cells via anti-oxidant activities, and suppressing proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells. In conclusion, berberine can exert inhibitory effects on the atherosclerotic plaque development mainly through LDL-lowering activity and suppressing atherogenic functions of mentioned cells. As the second achievement of this review, among the signaling pathways through which berberine regulates intracellular processes, AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) has a central and critical role, showing that enhancing activity of AMPK pathway can be considered as a promising therapeutic approach for atherosclerosis treatment.


greenmedinfo--2020-11-20--Modulation of gut microbiota mediates berberine-induced expansion of immuno-suppressive cells to aga

Modulation of gut microbiota mediates berberine-induced expansion of immuno-suppressive cells to against alcoholic liver disease.

BACKGROUND : Berberine is an isoquinoline alkaloid compound derived from many herbs , which has been used extensively to improve liver function .
But action mechanism of its hepatoprotection in alcoholic liver disease ( ALD ) is far from being clear .
AIM : To investigate the underlying mechanism of berberine 's therapeutic effect on ALD associated with gut microbiota-immune system axis .
METHOD : An animal model fed with ethanol that mimics drinking pattern ideally in ALD patients was established .
Liver function was evaluated by biochemical test and histological examination .
Immune cells were detected by flow cytometry @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rRNA gene amplicon sequencing .
RESULTS : We first reported the promising beneficial effect of berberine on ameliorating acute-on-chronic alcoholic hepatic damage and explored the underlying mechanism involving gut microbiota-immune system axis .
Notably , berberine activated a population with immune suppressive function , defined as granulocytic- myeloid-derived suppressor cell ( G-MDSC ) -like population , in the liver of mice with alleviating alcohol-induced hepatic injury .
Berberine remarkably enhanced the increase of G-MDSC-like cells in blood and liver and decreased cytotoxic T cells correspondingly .
Suppression of G-MDSC-like population significantly attenuated the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Berberine activated IL6/STAT3 signaling in in vitro culture of G-MSDCs-like population , while inhibition of STAT3 activity attenuated the activation of this population by berberine .
Moreover , berberine changed the overall gut microbial community , primarily increased the abundance of Akkermansia muciniphila .
Of note , depletion of gut microbiota abolished the inducing effect of berberine on G-MDSC-like population , and attenuated its hepatoprotective effect against alcohol in mice , suggesting intestinal flora might be involved in mediating the expansion of this protective population .
CONCLUSION : Collectively , this study delivered @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in ALD , and facilitated the understanding of the pharmacological effects and action mechanisms of berberine .

BACKGROUND: Berberine is an isoquinoline alkaloid compound derived from many herbs, which has been used extensively to improve liver function. But action mechanism of its hepatoprotection in alcoholic liver disease (ALD) is far from being clear.
AIM: To investigate the underlying mechanism of berberine's therapeutic effect on ALD associated with gut microbiota-immune system axis.
METHOD: An animal model fed with ethanol that mimics drinking pattern ideally in ALD patients was established. Liver function was evaluated by biochemical test and histological examination. Immune cells were detected by flow cytometry and feces samples were collected for 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing.
RESULTS: We first reported the promising beneficial effect of berberine on ameliorating acute-on-chronic alcoholic hepatic damage and explored the underlying mechanism involving gut microbiota-immune system axis. Notably, berberine activated a population with immune suppressive function, defined as granulocytic- myeloid-derived suppressor cell (G-MDSC)-like population, in the liver of mice with alleviating alcohol-induced hepatic injury. Berberine remarkably enhanced the increase of G-MDSC-like cells in blood and liver and decreased cytotoxic T cells correspondingly. Suppression of G-MDSC-like population significantly attenuated the protective effect of berberine against alcohol. Berberine activated IL6/STAT3 signaling in in vitro culture of G-MSDCs-like population, while inhibition of STAT3 activity attenuated the activation of this population by berberine. Moreover, berberine changed the overall gut microbial community, primarily increased the abundance of Akkermansia muciniphila. Of note, depletion of gut microbiota abolished the inducing effect of berberine on G-MDSC-like population, and attenuated its hepatoprotective effect against alcohol in mice, suggesting intestinal flora might be involved in mediating the expansion of this protective population.
CONCLUSION: Collectively, this study delivered insight into the role of immunosuppressive response in ALD, and facilitated the understanding of the pharmacological effects and action mechanisms of berberine.


greenmedinfo--2020-11-20--Regulation of MFN2 by berberine alleviates obesity exacerbated colitis.

Obesity has become a global health issue , which can cause metabolic abnormalities systemically leading to increased morbidity of series diseases .
At present , researches have presented obesity is a high-risk factor for colitis , and berberine shows positive therapeutic effect on colitis .
Thus , we explored the beneficial effects and potential mechanisms of berberine on obesity-exacerbated colitis in this article .
High-fat diet ( HFD ) exacerbated dextran sulfate sodium ( DSS ) induced colitis mice model was applied , the results showed that HFD promoted DSS-induced weight loss and inflammatory manifestations in intestine .
The results @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of inflammatory indicators in colon showed that HFD increased all their levels evidently , and the outcomes of Western blot analyses presented that HFD downregulated the MFN2 expression , inhibited the phosphorylation of AMPK as well as upregulated the BIP/Grp78 expression , while berberine could significantly reverse all these situations .
In vitro , we stimulated Caco-2 cells with palmitic acid ( PA ) to replicate the lipotoxicity damage in the intestine , and the results presented that intervention therapy of berberine effectively enhanced the MFN2 expression , inhibited the mRNA levels of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ induced protein level changes of AMPK and BIP/Grp78 .
In general , we proposed that berberine could regulate MFN2 to alleviate obesity exacerbated colitis .

Obesity has become a global health issue, which can cause metabolic abnormalities systemically leading to increased morbidity of series diseases. At present, researches have presented obesity is a high-risk factor for colitis, and berberine shows positive therapeutic effect on colitis. Thus, we explored the beneficial effects and potential mechanisms of berberine on obesity-exacerbated colitis in this article. High-fat diet (HFD) exacerbated dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) induced colitis mice model was applied, the results showed that HFD promoted DSS-induced weight loss and inflammatory manifestations in intestine. The results of cytokines in serum and mRNA expression of inflammatory indicators in colon showed that HFD increased all their levels evidently, and the outcomes of Western blot analyses presented that HFD downregulated the MFN2 expression, inhibited the phosphorylation of AMPK as well as upregulated the BIP/Grp78 expression, while berberine could significantly reverse all these situations. In vitro, we stimulated Caco-2 cells with palmitic acid (PA) to replicate the lipotoxicity damage in the intestine, and the results presented that intervention therapy of berberine effectively enhanced the MFN2 expression, inhibited the mRNA levels of inflammatory factors, and reversed the PA induced protein level changes of AMPK and BIP/Grp78. In general, we proposed that berberine could regulate MFN2 to alleviate obesity exacerbated colitis.


greenmedinfo--2020-11-20--The study expands the understanding of the pharmacological properties of berberine and its applicabi

The study expands the understanding of the pharmacological properties of berberine and its applicability as a radiosensitizer towards treating liver cancer.

OBJECTIVE : To study the radiosensitizing potential of Berberine and the underlying mechanism in human hepatocarcinoma ( HepG2 ) cells .
METHODS : HepG2 cells were challenged with X-rays in combination with Berberine treatment and several in vitro assays were performed .
Alteration in cell viability was determined by MTT assay .
Changes in intracellular ROS levels , mitochondrial membrane potential/mass , intracellular acidic vesicular organelles as well as cell cycle arrest and apoptotic cell death were analysed by flow cytometry .
Induction of autophagy was assessed by staining the cells with Monodansylcadaverine/Lysotracker red dyes and immunoblotting for LC3I/II and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to study mitotic catastrophe and senescence .
Cellular senescence was confirmed by immunoblotting for p21 levels and ELISA for Interleukin-6 .
KEY FINDINGS : X-rays + Berberine had a synergistic effect in reducing cell proliferation accompanied by a robust G2/M arrest .
Berberine-mediated radiosensitization was associated with elevated levels of LC3II and p62 suggesting blocked autophagy that was followed by mitotic catastrophe and senescence .
Treatment of cells with X-rays + Berberine resulted in increased oxidative stress , hyperpolarized mitochondria with increased mitochondrial mass and reduced ATP levels .
CONCLUSIONS : The study @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Berberine and its applicability as a radiosensitizer towards treating liver cancer .

OBJECTIVE: To study the radiosensitizing potential of Berberine and the underlying mechanism in human hepatocarcinoma (HepG2) cells.
METHODS: HepG2 cells were challenged with X-rays in combination with Berberine treatment and several in vitro assays were performed. Alteration in cell viability was determined by MTT assay. Changes in intracellular ROS levels, mitochondrial membrane potential/mass, intracellular acidic vesicular organelles as well as cell cycle arrest and apoptotic cell death were analysed by flow cytometry. Induction of autophagy was assessed by staining the cells with Monodansylcadaverine/Lysotracker red dyes and immunoblotting for LC3I/II and p62 proteins. Phase-contrast/fluorescence microscopy was employed to study mitotic catastrophe and senescence. Cellular senescence was confirmed by immunoblotting for p21 levels and ELISA for Interleukin-6.
KEY FINDINGS: X-rays + Berberine had a synergistic effect in reducing cell proliferation accompanied by a robust G2/M arrest. Berberine-mediated radiosensitization was associated with elevated levels of LC3II and p62 suggesting blocked autophagy that was followed by mitotic catastrophe and senescence. Treatment of cells with X-rays + Berberine resulted in increased oxidative stress, hyperpolarized mitochondria with increased mitochondrial mass and reduced ATP levels.
CONCLUSIONS: The study expands the understanding of the pharmacological properties of Berberine and its applicability as a radiosensitizer towards treating liver cancer.


greenmedinfo--2020-11-20--Berberine ameliorates rats model of combined Alzheimer's disease and type 2 diabetes mellitus via th

Berberine ameliorates rats model of combined Alzheimer's disease and type 2 diabetes mellitus via the suppression of endoplasmic reticulum stress.

This study is aimed to investigate the protective effect against type 2 diabetes mellitus ( T2DM ) and Alzheimer 's disease ( AD ) of Berberine ( BBR ) , and the underlying mechanism of action is explored .
We established a rat model of combined AD and T2DM and used it to investigate the effect of BBR ( 150 mg/kg ) on the course of these pathologies .
The Morris water maze , biochemical analysis , hematoxylin-eosin staining , immunohistochemical study , immunofluorescent staining , TUNEL assay , RT-qPCR and western blot were used to reveal the effect of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , hippocampal injuries and cognitive impairment .
The results showed that BBR could alleviate memory deficits , restore the disordered arrangement of nerve cells , the damage of neurons , improve TUNEL-positive cells and decrease the elevated levels of fasting blood glucose , triglyceride , total cholesterol and glycosylatedserum protein levels in Alzheimer diabetic rats .
Moreover , BBR treatment reduces the transcription of mRNAs and expression of proteins related to endoplasmic reticulum ( ER ) stress .
These findings conclude that BBR can protect neurons by inhibiting the pathway of ER stress @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the preventive and therapeutic of AD and T2DM .

This study is aimed to investigate the protective effect against type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and Alzheimer's disease (AD) of Berberine (BBR), and the underlying mechanism of action is explored. We established a rat model of combined AD and T2DM and used it to investigate the effect of BBR (150 mg/kg) on the course of these pathologies. The Morris water maze, biochemical analysis, hematoxylin-eosin staining, immunohistochemical study, immunofluorescent staining, TUNEL assay, RT-qPCR and western blot were used to reveal the effect of BBR on blood glucose, lipid changes, hippocampal injuries and cognitive impairment. The results showed that BBR could alleviate memory deficits, restore the disordered arrangement of nerve cells, the damage of neurons, improve TUNEL-positive cells and decrease the elevated levels of fasting blood glucose, triglyceride, total cholesterol and glycosylatedserum protein levels in Alzheimer diabetic rats. Moreover, BBR treatment reduces the transcription of mRNAs and expression of proteins related to endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress. These findings conclude that BBR can protect neurons by inhibiting the pathway of ER stress and thereby play an essential role in the preventive and therapeutic of AD and T2DM.


greenmedinfo--2020-11-20--Berberine functions as a negative regulator in lipopolysaccharide -induced sepsis.

Sepsis is a deadly complication raised by bacterial pathogens-induced dysregulated innate inflammatory response .
Thus , anti-inflammatory is a potential therapeutic treatment for septic patients .
Numerous evidence exhibited that berberine possesses potent anti-inflammatory , anti-apoptotic and anti-oxidative activities .
However , the effect of berberine on sepsis is not fully understood .
The anti-inflammatory effect of berberine was evaluated using lipopolysaccharide ( LPS ) -induced macrophages differentiation model in vitro and using LPS/D-galactosamine-challenged septic mice model in vivo .
The secreted protein levels were determined by ELISA assay .
The multiple targets mRNA and protein levels were measured by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ respectively .
Our study demonstrated that administration of berberine significantly attenuated lung tissue injury , and potently increased the survival rate of septic mice by modulating excessive inflammatory response with negligible side-effects .
We further found that berberine inhibited the expression of tumor necrosis factor ( TNF ) -α , interleukin- ( IL ) -1β and IL-6 via suppressing nuclear factor kappa B subunit 1 ( NF-κB ) signaling activation .
Our study strongly supported the concept that berberine may serve as a single drug or a promising adjuvant that can be used @ @ @ @ @ @ @ treatment of septic patients .

Sepsis is a deadly complication raised by bacterial pathogens-induced dysregulated innate inflammatory response. Thus, anti-inflammatory is a potential therapeutic treatment for septic patients. Numerous evidence exhibited that berberine possesses potent anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic and anti-oxidative activities. However, the effect of berberine on sepsis is not fully understood. The anti-inflammatory effect of berberine was evaluated using lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced macrophages differentiation model in vitro and using LPS/D-galactosamine-challenged septic mice model in vivo. The secreted protein levels were determined by ELISA assay. The multiple targets mRNA and protein levels were measured by quantitative RT-PCR and western blot assay, respectively. Our study demonstrated that administration of berberine significantly attenuated lung tissue injury, and potently increased the survival rate of septic mice by modulating excessive inflammatory response with negligible side-effects. We further found that berberine inhibited the expression of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin-(IL)-1β and IL-6 via suppressing nuclear factor kappa B subunit 1 (NF-κB) signaling activation. Our study strongly supported the concept that berberine may serve as a single drug or a promising adjuvant that can be used in conjunction with other medications for the treatment of septic patients.


greenmedinfo--2020-11-20--Berberine has protective effects against macrovascular complications induced by diabetes mellitus.

OBJECTIVE : The aim of this study was to examine the effect of berberine in diabetes mellitus in vivo and in vitro , and elucidate the underlying mechanisms .
METHODS : Rat models of type 2 diabetes mellitus ( T2DM ) were established , which were treated with berberine .
Pathological changes in the thoracic aorta , and inflammatory factor and adiponectin levels were investigated .
Vascular smooth muscle cells ( VSMCs ) of the thoracic aorta were cultured and treated with berberine .
Cellular proliferation , migration , and inflammatory factor levels were investigated .
Responses of vascular rings @ @ @ @ @ @ @ nitroprusside ( SNP ) after berberine intervention , and the changes of relaxation responses to SNP after adding Iberiotoxin ( IbTX ) were investigated .
RESULTS : Berberine ameliorated the pathological status of the thoracic aorta in the T2DM rats .
Berberine significantly inhibited the C-reactive protein ( CRP ) , interleukin-6 ( IL-6 ) , and tumor necrosis factor-α ( TNF-α ) production , and increased the adiponectin level compared with the model group .
Compared with the model group , berberine inhibited the proliferation and migration of VSMCs in vitro , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) , IL-6 , and TNF-α levels .
Furthermore , the contraction of thoracic aorta to PE was reduced , while the relaxation response of thoracic aorta to SNP was increased , after the berberine intervention in the T2DM rats .
The relaxation of thoracic aorta to SNP in the model and berberine groups were decreased after the IbTX treatment .
CONCLUSIONS : Protective effects of berberine against macrovascular complications induced by diabetes mellitus may be attributed to inhibiting the inflammation and intervening the calcium-activated potassium ( BKCa ) .

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to examine the effect of berberine in diabetes mellitus in vivo and in vitro, and elucidate the underlying mechanisms.
METHODS: Rat models of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) were established, which were treated with berberine. Pathological changes in the thoracic aorta, and inflammatory factor and adiponectin levels were investigated. Vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) of the thoracic aorta were cultured and treated with berberine. Cellular proliferation, migration, and inflammatory factor levels were investigated. Responses of vascular rings to phenylephrine (PE) and sodium nitroprusside (SNP) after berberine intervention, and the changes of relaxation responses to SNP after adding Iberiotoxin (IbTX) were investigated.
RESULTS: Berberine ameliorated the pathological status of the thoracic aorta in the T2DM rats. Berberine significantly inhibited the C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) production, and increased the adiponectin level compared with the model group. Compared with the model group, berberine inhibited the proliferation and migration of VSMCs in vitro, and reduced tumor growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), IL-6, and TNF-α levels. Furthermore, the contraction of thoracic aorta to PE was reduced, while the relaxation response of thoracic aorta to SNP was increased, after the berberine intervention in the T2DM rats. The relaxation of thoracic aorta to SNP in the model and berberine groups were decreased after the IbTX treatment.
CONCLUSIONS: Protective effects of berberine against macrovascular complications induced by diabetes mellitus may be attributed to inhibiting the inflammation and intervening the calcium-activated potassium (BKCa).


greenmedinfo--2020-11-20--Berberine inhibits the gene expression and production of pro-inflammatory cytokines by mononuclear c

Berberine inhibits the gene expression and production of pro-inflammatory cytokines by mononuclear cells in rheumatoid arthritis.

OBJECTIVE : Rheumatoid arthritis ( RA ) is the most prevalent autoimmune arthritis .
Berberine is an alkaloid isolated from Berberis vulgaris and its anti-inflammatory effect has been identified .
METHOD : Twenty newly diagnosed RA patients and 20 healthy controls participated .
Peripheral mononuclear cells were prepared and stimulated with bacterial lipopolysachharide ( LPS,1µg/ml ) , exposed to different concentrations of berberine ( 10 and 50µM ) and dexamethasone ( 10-7 M ) as a reference .
Toxicity of compounds was evaluated by WST-1 assay .
Expression of TNF-α and IL-1β were determined by quantitative real-time PCR .
Protein @ @ @ @ @ @ @ measured by using ELISA .
RESULT : Berberine did not have any toxic effect on cells , whereas Lipopolysachharide ( LPS ) stimulation caused a noticeable rise in TNF-α and IL-1β production .
Berberine markedly downregulated the expression of both TNF-α and IL1β and inhibits TNF-α and IL-1β secretion from LPS-stimulated PBMCs .
DISCUSSION : This study provided molecular basis for anti-inflammatory effect of berberine on human mononuclear cells through the suppression of TNF-a and IL-1secretion .
Our findings highlighted the significant inhibitory effect of berberine on proinflammatory responses of mononuclear cells from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ responsible for antiinflammatory property of Barberry .
We observed that berberine at high concentration exhibited anti-inflammatory effect in PBMCs of both healthy and patient groups by suppression of TNF-a and IL-1cytokines at both mRNA and protein levels .
CONCLUSIONS : Berberine may inhibit the gene expression and production of pro-inflammatory cytokines by mononuclear cells in rheumatoid arthritis and healthy individuals without affecting cells viability .
Future studies with larger sample size is needed to prove the idea .

OBJECTIVE: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is the most prevalent autoimmune arthritis. Berberine is an alkaloid isolated from Berberis vulgaris and its anti-inflammatory effect has been identified.
METHOD: Twenty newly diagnosed RA patients and 20 healthy controls participated. Peripheral mononuclear cells were prepared and stimulated with bacterial lipopolysachharide (LPS,1µg/ml), exposed to different concentrations of berberine (10 and 50µM) and dexamethasone (10-7 M) as a reference. Toxicity of compounds was evaluated by WST-1 assay. Expression of TNF-α and IL-1β were determined by quantitative real-time PCR. Protein level of secreted TNF-α and IL1β were measured by using ELISA.
RESULT: Berberine did not have any toxic effect on cells, whereas Lipopolysachharide (LPS) stimulation caused a noticeable rise in TNF-α and IL-1β production. Berberine markedly downregulated the expression of both TNF-α and IL1β and inhibits TNF-α and IL-1β secretion from LPS-stimulated PBMCs.
DISCUSSION: This study provided molecular basis for anti-inflammatory effect of berberine on human mononuclear cells through the suppression of TNF-a and IL-1secretion. Our findings highlighted the significant inhibitory effect of berberine on proinflammatory responses of mononuclear cells from rheumatoid arthritis individuals, which may be responsible for antiinflammatory property of Barberry. We observed that berberine at high concentration exhibited anti-inflammatory effect in PBMCs of both healthy and patient groups by suppression of TNF-a and IL-1cytokines at both mRNA and protein levels.
CONCLUSIONS: Berberine may inhibit the gene expression and production of pro-inflammatory cytokines by mononuclear cells in rheumatoid arthritis and healthy individuals without affecting cells viability. Future studies with larger sample size is needed to prove the idea.


greenmedinfo--2020-11-20--Berberine: a promising natural isoquinoline alkaloid for development of hypolipidemic drug.

Berberine as a representative of isoquinoline alkaloid , exhibits significant hypolipidemic activity both in animal model and clinic trials .
@ @ @ @ @ of studies on the lipid-lowering mechanism of berberine , and researches for improving its hypolipidemic @ @ @ @ @ they seem to be scattered mostly , or not comprehensive .
In addition , there @ @ @ @ @ the discussion of the lipid-reducing effect of berberine .
In this paper , the physicochemical @ @ @ @ @ , and the modification study of berberine , all are discussed in succession to promote @ @ @ @ @ as a lipid-lowering agent .
Subsequently , this paper would provide some insights into the @ @ @ @ @ study of lipid-lowering drug , and based on the situation , some proposals are put @ @

Berberine as a representative of isoquinoline alkaloid, exhibits significant hypolipidemic activity both in animal model and clinic trials. Recently, a large number of studies on the lipid-lowering mechanism of berberine, and researches for improving its hypolipidemic activity are reported, but they seem to be scattered mostly, or not comprehensive. In addition, there are few specific reviews on the discussion of the lipid-reducing effect of berberine. In this paper, the physicochemical property, the lipid-lowering mechanism, and the modification study of berberine, all are discussed in succession to promote the depth development of berberine as a lipid-lowering agent. Subsequently, this paper would provide some insights into the deficiencies of berberine in the study of lipid-lowering drug, and based on the situation, some proposals are put forward.


greenmedinfo--2020-11-20--Berberine improves inflammatory responses of diabetes mellitus.

Berberine ( BBR ) , a natural compound extracted from a Chinese herb , has been shown to effectively attenuate insulin resistance ( IR ) and inflammation in the clinic .
However , its ameliorative mechanism against IR is not well defined .
This study is aimed at investigating the effect of BBR and protein phosphatase , Mg/Mn-dependent 1B ( PPM1B ) on IR .
Biochemical measurements and liver histopathology were detected using the biochemical analyzer and HE staining in ZDF rats , respectively .
Microarray analysis of liver tissues was performed , and differentially expressed gene ( DEG ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( qPCR ) and Western blot .
Additionally , the effect of BBR was also explored in HepG2-IR cells .
The glucose oxidase method and the fluorescent glucose analog were used to detect glucose consumption and uptake , respectively .
The PKA inhibitor H89 , ELISA , qPCR , Western blot , and immunofluorescence staining were employed to estimate the expression levels of related signaling pathways .
To evaluate the roles of PPM1B , HepG2-IR cells were stably infected with lentivirus targeting PPM1B .
The administration of BBR drastically decreased the body weight @ @ @ @ @ @ @ blood urea nitrogen ( BUN ) , CHOL , hepatic index levels , and pathologic changes and improved ALB levels in ZDF rats with PPM1B upregulation .
Furthermore , BBR effectively improves glucose consumption , uptake , and inflammation in HepG2-IR cells .
The knockdown of PPM1B expression aggravated the inflammatory response and glycometabolism disorder in HepG2-IR cells .
Mechanistically , a reversal in the expression of cAMP , PKA , PPM1B , PPAR , LRP1 , GLUT4 , NF-B p65 , JNK , pIKKSer181 , IKK , IRS-1 Ser307 , IRS-1 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and AKT Ser473 contributes to ameliorate IR in HepG2-IR cells with BBR treatment .
Altogether , these results suggest that BBR might regulate IR progression through the regulation of the cAMP , PKA , PPM1B , PPAR , LRP1 , GLUT4 , NF-B p65 , JNK , pIKKSer181 , IKK , IRS-1 Ser307 , IRS-1 , IRS-2 Ser731 , IRS-2 , PI3K p85 , and AKT Ser473 expression in the liver .

Berberine (BBR), a natural compound extracted from a Chinese herb, has been shown to effectively attenuate insulin resistance (IR) and inflammation in the clinic. However, its ameliorative mechanism against IR is not well defined. This study is aimed at investigating the effect of BBR and protein phosphatase, Mg/Mn-dependent 1B (PPM1B) on IR. Biochemical measurements and liver histopathology were detected using the biochemical analyzer and HE staining in ZDF rats, respectively. Microarray analysis of liver tissues was performed, and differentially expressed gene (DEG) levels were examined by quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) and Western blot. Additionally, the effect of BBR was also explored in HepG2-IR cells. The glucose oxidase method and the fluorescent glucose analog were used to detect glucose consumption and uptake, respectively. The PKA inhibitor H89, ELISA, qPCR, Western blot, and immunofluorescence staining were employed to estimate the expression levels of related signaling pathways. To evaluate the roles of PPM1B, HepG2-IR cells were stably infected with lentivirus targeting PPM1B. The administration of BBR drastically decreased the body weight, urine volume, blood glucose, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), CHOL, hepatic index levels, and pathologic changes and improved ALB levels in ZDF rats with PPM1B upregulation. Furthermore, BBR effectively improves glucose consumption, uptake, and inflammation in HepG2-IR cells. The knockdown of PPM1B expression aggravated the inflammatory response and glycometabolism disorder in HepG2-IR cells. Mechanistically, a reversal in the expression of cAMP, PKA, PPM1B, PPAR, LRP1, GLUT4, NF-B p65, JNK, pIKKSer181, IKK, IRS-1 Ser307, IRS-1, IRS-2 Ser731, IRS-2, PI3K p85, and AKT Ser473 contributes to ameliorate IR in HepG2-IR cells with BBR treatment. Altogether, these results suggest that BBR might regulate IR progression through the regulation of the cAMP, PKA, PPM1B, PPAR, LRP1, GLUT4, NF-B p65, JNK, pIKKSer181, IKK, IRS-1 Ser307, IRS-1, IRS-2 Ser731, IRS-2, PI3K p85, and AKT Ser473 expression in the liver.


greenmedinfo--2020-11-20--Berberine as potential multi-target agent for metabolic diseases.

Berberine ( BBR ) is a botanic alkaloid extracted from Coptis chinensis ( Huanglian ) , which has various properties @ @ @ @ @ , anti-inflammation , and improve insulin resistance , etc .
Several researches have confirmed that @ @ @ @ @ treating glycolipid metabolic abnormalities .
BBR also has beneficial in regulating intestinal flora .
Metabolic @ @ @ @ @ metabolic disorders , which are growing in the population and dramatically impacting human health , @ @ @ @ @ as a leading cause of diseases and death globally .
This review is to evaluate @ @ @ @ @ , and its potential application to the treatment of metabolic diseases by its effective actions @ @ @ @

Berberine (BBR) is a botanic alkaloid extracted from Coptis chinensis (Huanglian), which has various properties, compassing anti-hyperglycemia, anti-obesity, anti-inflammation, and improve insulin resistance, etc. Several researches have confirmed that BBR has effective actions in treating glycolipid metabolic abnormalities. BBR also has beneficial in regulating intestinal flora. Metabolic diseases are strongly associated with metabolic disorders, which are growing in the population and dramatically impacting human health, which also have been considered as a leading cause of diseases and death globally. This review is to evaluate the metabolic properties of BBR, and its potential application to the treatment of metabolic diseases by its effective actions on metabolic disorders.


greenmedinfo--2020-11-20--Cell cycle regulation by berberine in human melanoma A375 cells.

We studied the effects of berberine on the proliferation , apoptosis , and migration of skin melanoma A375 cells , as well as cell cycle-related miRNAs and their target genes , CDK1 , CDK2 , and cyclins D1 and A .
The inhibitory effect of berberine on the growth of A375 cells was evaluated by MTT assay .
Cell apoptosis was detected by trypan blue staining .
Cell migration was assessed by the scratch test .
Cell cycle phases were determined by flow cytometry .
The levels of miRNA-582-5p and miRNA-188-5 , and mRNA of their target genes encoding CDK1 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ A were measured by qRT-PCR .
The expression of cell cycle-related proteins ( CDK1 , CDK2 , and cyclins D1 and A ) was determined by Western blotting .
Berberine inhibited the proliferation of A375 cells in a time- and dose-dependent manner and significantly and dose-dependently enhanced cell apoptosis .
Scratch assay showed an inhibitory effect of berberine on migration of A375 cells .
Berberine in low concentrations ( 20 and 40μM ) caused cell cycle arrest in the S and G2/M phases , while treatment with high concentrations of berberine ( 60 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the G2/M phase .
The increase in berberine concentration led to an increase in miRNA-582-5p and miRNA-188-5p expression and a decrease in the expressionof mRNA for the corresponding target genes encoding CDK1 , CDK2 , and cyclins D1 and A .
Western blotting also revealed reduced expression of CDK1 , CDK2 , and cyclins D1 and A .
Thus , berberine suppressed the growth and migration of human melanoma cells and promoted their apoptosis .
Berberine can increase the expression of cell cycle-related miRNAs and cause degradation of the corresponding target genes , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ inhibiting the melanoma A375 cells .

We studied the effects of berberine on the proliferation, apoptosis, and migration of skin melanoma A375 cells, as well as cell cycle-related miRNAs and their target genes, CDK1, CDK2, and cyclins D1 and A. The inhibitory effect of berberine on the growth of A375 cells was evaluated by MTT assay. Cell apoptosis was detected by trypan blue staining. Cell migration was assessed by the scratch test. Cell cycle phases were determined by flow cytometry. The levels of miRNA-582-5p and miRNA-188-5, and mRNA of their target genes encoding CDK1, CDK2, and cyclins D1 and A were measured by qRT-PCR. The expression of cell cycle-related proteins (CDK1, CDK2, and cyclins D1 and A) was determined by Western blotting. Berberine inhibited the proliferation of A375 cells in a time- and dose-dependent manner and significantly and dose-dependently enhanced cell apoptosis. Scratch assay showed an inhibitory effect of berberine on migration of A375 cells. Berberine in low concentrations (20 and 40μM) caused cell cycle arrest in the S and G2/M phases, while treatment with high concentrations of berberine (60 and 80 μM) arrested cell-cycle in the G2/M phase. The increase in berberine concentration led to an increase in miRNA-582-5p and miRNA-188-5p expression and a decrease in the expressionof mRNA for the corresponding target genes encoding CDK1, CDK2, and cyclins D1 and A. Western blotting also revealed reduced expression of CDK1, CDK2, and cyclins D1 and A. Thus, berberine suppressed the growth and migration of human melanoma cells and promoted their apoptosis. Berberine can increase the expression of cell cycle-related miRNAs and cause degradation of the corresponding target genes, thereby blocking the cell cycle progression and inhibiting the melanoma A375 cells.


greenmedinfo--2020-11-20--Berberine-loaded liposomes for the treatment of Leishmania infantum.

Berberine ( BER ) -an anti-inflammatory quaternary isoquinoline alkaloid extracted from plants-has been reported to have a variety of biologic properties , including antileishmanial activity .
This work addresses the preparation of BER-loaded liposomes with the aim to prevent its rapid liver metabolism and improve the drug selective delivery to the infected organs in visceral leishmaniasis ( VL ) .
BER liposomes ( LP-BER ) displayed a mean size of 120 nm , negative Z-potential of -38 mV and loaded 6 nmol/μmol lipid .
In vitro , the loading of BER in liposomes enhanced its selectivity index more than 7-fold @ @ @ @ @ @ @ In mice , LP-BER enhanced drug accumulation in the liver and the spleen .
Consequently , the liposomal delivery of the drug reduced parasite burden in the liver and spleen by three and one logarithms ( 99.2 and 93.5 % ) , whereas the free drug only decreased the infection in the liver by 1-log .
The organ drug concentrations-far from ICvalues- indicate that BER immunomodulatory activity or drug metabolites also contribute to the efficacy .
Although LP-BER decreased 10-fold-an extremely rapid clearance of the free drug in mice-the value remains very high @ @ @ @ @ @ @ levels .

Berberine (BER)-an anti-inflammatory quaternary isoquinoline alkaloid extracted from plants-has been reported to have a variety of biologic properties, including antileishmanial activity. This work addresses the preparation of BER-loaded liposomes with the aim to prevent its rapid liver metabolism and improve the drug selective delivery to the infected organs in visceral leishmaniasis (VL). BER liposomes (LP-BER) displayed a mean size of 120 nm, negative Z-potential of -38 mV and loaded 6 nmol/μmol lipid. In vitro, the loading of BER in liposomes enhanced its selectivity index more than 7-fold by decreasing its cytotoxicity to macrophages. In mice, LP-BER enhanced drug accumulation in the liver and the spleen. Consequently, the liposomal delivery of the drug reduced parasite burden in the liver and spleen by three and one logarithms (99.2 and 93.5%), whereas the free drug only decreased the infection in the liver by 1-log. The organ drug concentrations-far from ICvalues- indicate that BER immunomodulatory activity or drug metabolites also contribute to the efficacy. Although LP-BER decreased 10-fold-an extremely rapid clearance of the free drug in mice-the value remains very high. Moreover, LP-BER reduced plasma triglycerides levels.