greenmedinfo--2020-08-06--Zinc ionophore activity of quercetin and epigallocatechin-gallate: from Hepa 1-6 cells to a liposome

Zinc ionophore activity of quercetin and epigallocatechin-gallate: from Hepa 1-6 cells to a liposome model.

Labile zinc , a tiny fraction of total intracellular zinc that is loosely bound to proteins and easily interchangeable , modulates the activity of numerous signaling and metabolic pathways .
Dietary plant polyphenols such as the flavonoids quercetin ( QCT ) and epigallocatechin-gallate act as antioxidants and as signaling molecules .
Remarkably , the activities of numerous enzymes that are targeted by polyphenols are dependent on zinc .
We have previously shown that these polyphenols chelate zinc cations and hypothesized that these flavonoids might be also acting as zinc ionophores , transporting zinc cations through the plasma membrane .
To @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have demonstrated the capacity of QCT and epigallocatechin-gallate to rapidly increase labile zinc in mouse hepatocarcinoma Hepa 1-6 cells as well as , for the first time , in liposomes .
In order to confirm that the polyphenols transport zinc cations across the plasma membrane independently of plasma membrane zinc transporters , QCT , epigallocatechin-gallate , or clioquinol ( CQ ) , alone and combined with zinc , were added to unilamellar dipalmitoylphosphocholine/cholesterol liposomes loaded with membrane-impermeant FluoZin-3 .
Only the combinations of the chelators with zinc triggered a rapid increase of FluoZin-3 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the ionophore action of QCT , epigallocatechin-gallate , and CQ on lipid membrane systems .
The ionophore activity of dietary polyphenols may underlay the raising of labile zinc levels triggered in cells by polyphenols and thus many of their biological actions .

Labile zinc, a tiny fraction of total intracellular zinc that is loosely bound to proteins and easily interchangeable, modulates the activity of numerous signaling and metabolic pathways. Dietary plant polyphenols such as the flavonoids quercetin (QCT) and epigallocatechin-gallate act as antioxidants and as signaling molecules. Remarkably, the activities of numerous enzymes that are targeted by polyphenols are dependent on zinc. We have previously shown that these polyphenols chelate zinc cations and hypothesized that these flavonoids might be also acting as zinc ionophores, transporting zinc cations through the plasma membrane. To prove this hypothesis, herein, we have demonstrated the capacity of QCT and epigallocatechin-gallate to rapidly increase labile zinc in mouse hepatocarcinoma Hepa 1-6 cells as well as, for the first time, in liposomes. In order to confirm that the polyphenols transport zinc cations across the plasma membrane independently of plasma membrane zinc transporters, QCT, epigallocatechin-gallate, or clioquinol (CQ), alone and combined with zinc, were added to unilamellar dipalmitoylphosphocholine/cholesterol liposomes loaded with membrane-impermeant FluoZin-3. Only the combinations of the chelators with zinc triggered a rapid increase of FluoZin-3 fluorescence within the liposomes, thus demonstrating the ionophore action of QCT, epigallocatechin-gallate, and CQ on lipid membrane systems. The ionophore activity of dietary polyphenols may underlay the raising of labile zinc levels triggered in cells by polyphenols and thus many of their biological actions.


greenmedinfo--2020-08-05--5 Top Foods for Eye Health

5 Top Foods for Eye Health

Do you find yourself squinting and straining to read the daily news and wondering why the writing on menus has become so small ?
Are you interested in keeping your vision sharp no matter what your age ?
If so , these five best foods for eye health are a natural way to give your vision a boost from the inside out !
Maintaining eye health becomes increasingly important as you age .
Followers of natural health know that nutrition is your best defense against degeneration associated with aging and eye health is no exception .
We have compiled five @ @ @ @ @ @ @ so that you can include these power-packed nutrients in your diet .
Eating these vital foods and maintaining good overall health practices can help your eyes stay strong and your vision remain clear well into your golden years .
Extracted from one of the oldest species of tree in the world , ginkgo is a nutritional supplement that has been used as traditional herbal medicine in China for hundreds of years .
Derived from the leaves of the Ginkgo biloba tree , some of which are believed to be more than 2,500 years @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tea , capsule , tablet or tincture and has gained acclaim for a wide array of health benefits .
Ginkgo leaves contain natural flavonoids imbued with antioxidants that are believed to improve eye health by boosting circulation and protecting against damaging free radicals .
[ i ] Studies have shown ginkgo may help reduce age-related macular degeneration and may be useful in the treatment of peripheral vascular disease .
[ ii ] Ginkgo has been shown to increase ocular blood , making it potentially effective in treating glaucoma [ iii ] and other @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to your regimen may provide an added layer of protection against age-related memory loss and heart disease .
[ iv ] Ginkgo is generally well-tolerated but does have some contraindications and should not be combined with other drugs .
The maximum recommended dose for ginkgo extract is 240 milligrams ( mg ) a day .
[ v ] Another traditional Chinese medicine that has relevance to modern lifestyles is goji berries .
This nutrient-dense superfood contains all eight essential amino acids and a healthy dose of protein , which is unusual for a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ good for eye health .
A study from 2017 found that a low dose of goji berry extract ( between 250 and 350 mg per kilogram ( kg ) of body weight ) helped ameliorate the symptoms of dry eye disease .
[ vi ] Researchers attributed these actions to increased antioxidant and plasma zeaxanthin levels , a common carotenoid that has been associated with a significantly reduced risk of age-related maculopathy and cataract .
[ vii ] Maculopathy is any disease of the macula , the part of the eye associated with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the eye associated with aging that blurs vision and affects sensitivity to light , [ viii ] which may be positively impacted by proper nutrition .
Zeaxanthin is one of 600 carotenoids found in nature , but one of only two that are deposited in high quantities in the retina ( macula ) of the eye .
[ ix ] Antioxidant nutrients like zeaxanthin neutralize unstable free radical molecules that are associated with the oxidative stress that causes retinal damage .
Goji berries ' high antioxidant profile may further help protect against @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the journal Optometry and Vision Science found that the boost in antioxidant and plasma zeaxanthin levels provided by daily dietary supplementation with goji berry for a period of 90 days protected elderly subjects ' eyes from hypopigmentation and soft drusen accumulation in the macula , [ x ] tiny deposits of protein and fat that get deposited under the retina .
The study also found that goji berries helped filter harmful high-energy blue wavelengths of light to protect and maintain healthy cells in the eyes .
[ xi ] Gojis , also called @ @ @ @ @ @ @ locations , dried and as a juice or extract .
Goji berry is generally well-tolerated and associated with more than 20 beneficial pharmacological actions .
Carrots are widely known to be beneficial for eye health .
Loaded with beneficial vitamins and micronutrients , it 's no wonder that eating carrots is associated with strong eyesight .
Nutrient deficiency is a serious problem in developing countries where malnutrition is more common and can be a precursor to disease .
While malnutrition is less frequent in first-world nations , bariatric surgeries , which are performed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to remove diseased sections of the bowel can create malabsorption syndrome , the body 's failure to absorb nutrients from food .
A 2013 study published in the Journal of Optometry examined the case of a 55-year-old woman who presented to doctors with a two-year period of progressive night blindness .
Initial treatment with oral vitamin A supplementation was ineffective , suggesting that the deficiency was related to malabsorption rather than dietary insufficiency .
The patient had a medical history of Crohn 's disease and had undergone three previous bowel resections , which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with short bowel syndrome .
Injections of vitamin A once per month over an 18-month period led to significant improvements in the patient 's night vision , including remission of symptoms and vision tests that returned to normal ranges .
[ xii ] Carrots are also a good source of the carotenoids beta carotene , lutein and zeaxanthin , a class of antioxidant micronutrients that are believed to protect against macular degeneration and cataracts .
[ xiii ] A 2008 study examined the relationship between dietary intake of carotenoids and the risk of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dietary intakes of lutein and zeaxanthin are associated with significantly decreased risk of cataract .
[ xiv ] Green leafy vegetables and egg yolks are also good sources of lutein and zeaxanthin .
The Age-Related Eye Disease Study , sponsored by the U.S. government 's National Eye Institute , found that vitamin supplementation that included beta carotene at levels well above the Recommended Dietary Allowance ( RDA ) reduced the risk of developing advanced macular degeneration by a whopping 25 % .
[ xv ] The GreenMedInfo.com research database has 80 scientific abstracts @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Despite all the favorable press in recent years , you may not know that one of coconut oil 's benefits to health is retina protection .
Macular degeneration is the leading cause of vision loss in the U.S. , affecting more than 10 million Americans , which is more than cataracts and glaucoma combined .
[ xvi ] Age-related macular degeneration , or AMD , is diagnosed when an eye doctor detects drusen , yellow plaque-like deposits , under the surface of the retina .
Over time , these deposits can blur @ @ @ @ @ @ @ if left untreated , vision loss can become severe and debilitating .
[ xvii ] One of the prime risk factors for developing AMD is exposure to ultraviolet light .
A 1966 study found that rats who were fed a diet of coconut oil and exposed to bright light had significantly better retinal morphologies than rats in control groups , something researchers attributed to reduced caspase-3 activity .
[ xviii ] Caspase-3 is a family of protease enzymes that plays an essential role in inflammation and apoptosis , or programmed cellular death .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ dosage of coconut oil was doubled , suggesting that coconut oil was the significant factor behind these potent eye health benefits .
[ xix ] Many fish are rich sources of omega-3 fatty acids .
Oily fish are fish that have oil in their gut and body tissue , so eating them offers higher levels of omega-3-rich fish oil .
The fish that contain the most beneficial levels of omega-3s include : Some studies have found that fish oil can reverse dry eye , including dry eye caused by spending too much time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ two types of omega-3 fatty acids to work right : DHA and EPA .
You can find both in fatty fish , such as salmon , tuna and trout , as well as other seafood .
Omega-3s also seem to protect your eyes from AMD and glaucoma .
Low levels of these fatty acids have been linked to dry eyes .
Be sure to choose fish sourced from non-polluted waters .
[ iii ] Kang JM , Lin S. Ginkgo biloba and its potential role in glaucoma .
Curr Opin Ophthalmol .
2018 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ doi : 10.1097/ICU.0000000000000459 [ iv ] Nguyen T , Alzahrani T. Ginkgo Biloba .
[ Updated 2020 Feb 27 ] .
In : StatPearls [ Internet ] .
Treasure Island ( FL ) : StatPearls Publishing ; 2020 Jan- .
Available from : https : //www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK541024/ [ v ] Nguyen T , Alzahrani T. Ginkgo Biloba .
[ Updated 2020 Feb 27 ] .
In : StatPearls [ Internet ] .
Treasure Island ( FL ) : StatPearls Publishing ; 2020 Jan- .
Available from : https : //www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK541024/ [ vi ] Chien @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , et al .
Effects of Lycium barbarum ( goji berry ) on dry eye disease in rats .
Mol Med Rep. 2018 ; 17 ( 1 ) :809‐818 .
doi:10.3892/mmr.2017.7947 [ vii ] Delcourt C , Carrière I , Delage M , Barberger-Gateau P , Schalch W ; POLA Study Group .
Plasma lutein and zeaxanthin and other carotenoids as modifiable risk factors for age-related maculopathy and cataract : the POLA Study .
Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci .
2006 ; 47 ( 6 ) :2329‐2335 .
doi : 10.1167/iovs.05-1235 [ x ] @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Karine* ; Shen , Lisong† ; Gu , Zhencheng* ; Zhang , Charlie‡ ; Miller , Larry E.* ; Wang , Junkuan* Goji Berry Effects on Macular Characteristics and Plasma Antioxidant Levels , Optometry and Vision Science : February 2011 - Volume 88 - Issue 2 - p 257-262. doi : 10.1097/OPX.0b013e318205a18f [ xi ] APA Bucheli , Peter* ; Vidal , Karine* ; Shen , Lisong† ; Gu , Zhencheng* ; Zhang , Charlie‡ ; Miller , Larry E.* ; Wang , Junkuan* Goji Berry Effects on Macular Characteristics and Plasma Antioxidant @ @ @ @ @ @ @ February 2011 - Volume 88 - Issue 2 - p 257-262. doi : 10.1097/OPX.0b013e318205a18f [ xii ] Clifford LJ , Turnbull AMJ , Denning AM .
Reversible night blindness - A reminder of the increasing importance of vitamin A deficiency in the developed world [ Ceguera nocturna reversible - recordatorio de la importancia creciente de la deficiencia de vitamina A en el mundo desarrollado ] .
J Optom .
2013 ; 6 ( 3 ) :173‐174 .
doi : 10.1016/j.optom.2013.01.002 [ xiv ] Christen , Liu , Glynn , Gaziano , Buring .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and risk of cataract in women : a prospective study .
Arch Ophthalmol .
2008 Jan ; 126 ( 1 ) :102-9 .
PMID : 18195226 [ xviii ] Noell WK , Walker VS , Kang BS , Berman S. Retinal damage by light in rats .
Invest Ophthalmol .
1966 ; 5 ( 5 ) :450‐473 .
[ xix ] Noell WK , Walker VS , Kang BS , Berman S. Retinal damage by light in rats .
Invest Ophthalmol .
1966 ; 5 ( 5 ) :450‐473 .

Visit our Re-post guidelines This article is copyrighted by GreenMedInfo LLC, 2020
Do you find yourself squinting and straining to read the daily news and wondering why the writing on menus has become so small? Are you interested in keeping your vision sharp no matter what your age? If so, these five best foods for eye health are a natural way to give your vision a boost from the inside out!
Maintaining eye health becomes increasingly important as you age. Followers of natural health know that nutrition is your best defense against degeneration associated with aging and eye health is no exception.
We have compiled five of the best foods for eye health so that you can include these power-packed nutrients in your diet. Eating these vital foods and maintaining good overall health practices can help your eyes stay strong and your vision remain clear well into your golden years.
1. Ginkgo Biloba
Extracted from one of the oldest species of tree in the world, ginkgo is a nutritional supplement that has been used as traditional herbal medicine in China for hundreds of years. Derived from the leaves of the Ginkgo biloba tree, some of which are believed to be more than 2,500 years old, ginkgo is available as a tea, capsule, tablet or tincture and has gained acclaim for a wide array of health benefits.
Ginkgo leaves contain natural flavonoids imbued with antioxidants that are believed to improve eye health by boosting circulation and protecting against damaging free radicals.[i] Studies have shown ginkgo may help reduce age-related macular degeneration and may be useful in the treatment of peripheral vascular disease.[ii]
Ginkgo has been shown to increase ocular blood, making it potentially effective in treating glaucoma[iii] and other eye diseases. Adding this potent supplement to your regimen may provide an added layer of protection against age-related memory loss and heart disease.[iv]
Ginkgo is generally well-tolerated but does have some contraindications and should not be combined with other drugs. The maximum recommended dose for ginkgo extract is 240 milligrams (mg) a day.[v]
2. Goji Berry
Another traditional Chinese medicine that has relevance to modern lifestyles is goji berries. This nutrient-dense superfood contains all eight essential amino acids and a healthy dose of protein, which is unusual for a fruit. Goji berries are also unusually good for eye health.
A study from 2017 found that a low dose of goji berry extract (between 250 and 350 mg per kilogram (kg) of body weight) helped ameliorate the symptoms of dry eye disease.[vi] Researchers attributed these actions to increased antioxidant and plasma zeaxanthin levels, a common carotenoid that has been associated with a significantly reduced risk of age-related maculopathy and cataract.[vii]
Maculopathy is any disease of the macula, the part of the eye associated with accurate vision. Cataract is the clouding of the eye associated with aging that blurs vision and affects sensitivity to light,[viii] which may be positively impacted by proper nutrition.
Zeaxanthin is one of 600 carotenoids found in nature, but one of only two that are deposited in high quantities in the retina (macula) of the eye.[ix] Antioxidant nutrients like zeaxanthin neutralize unstable free radical molecules that are associated with the oxidative stress that causes retinal damage.
Goji berries' high antioxidant profile may further help protect against macular degeneration. A study published in the journal Optometry and Vision Science found that the boost in antioxidant and plasma zeaxanthin levels provided by daily dietary supplementation with goji berry for a period of 90 days protected elderly subjects' eyes from hypopigmentation and soft drusen accumulation in the macula,[x] tiny deposits of protein and fat that get deposited under the retina.
The study also found that goji berries helped filter harmful high-energy blue wavelengths of light to protect and maintain healthy cells in the eyes.[xi] Gojis, also called wolfberries, are available fresh in some locations, dried and as a juice or extract. Goji berry is generally well-tolerated and associated with more than 20 beneficial pharmacological actions.
3. Carrots
Carrots are widely known to be beneficial for eye health. Loaded with beneficial vitamins and micronutrients, it's no wonder that eating carrots is associated with strong eyesight.
Nutrient deficiency is a serious problem in developing countries where malnutrition is more common and can be a precursor to disease. While malnutrition is less frequent in first-world nations, bariatric surgeries, which are performed to achieve weight loss, or surgeries to remove diseased sections of the bowel can create malabsorption syndrome, the body's failure to absorb nutrients from food.
A 2013 study published in the Journal of Optometry examined the case of a 55-year-old woman who presented to doctors with a two-year period of progressive night blindness. Initial treatment with oral vitamin A supplementation was ineffective, suggesting that the deficiency was related to malabsorption rather than dietary insufficiency.
The patient had a medical history of Crohn's disease and had undergone three previous bowel resections, which subsequently led to the malabsorptive state associated with short bowel syndrome. Injections of vitamin A once per month over an 18-month period led to significant improvements in the patient's night vision, including remission of symptoms and vision tests that returned to normal ranges.[xii]
Carrots are also a good source of the carotenoids beta carotene, lutein and zeaxanthin, a class of antioxidant micronutrients that are believed to protect against macular degeneration and cataracts.[xiii]
A 2008 study examined the relationship between dietary intake of carotenoids and the risk of cataract in women and found that higher dietary intakes of lutein and zeaxanthin are associated with significantly decreased risk of cataract.[xiv] Green leafy vegetables and egg yolks are also good sources of lutein and zeaxanthin.
The Age-Related Eye Disease Study, sponsored by the U.S. government's National Eye Institute, found that vitamin supplementation that included beta carotene at levels well above the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) reduced the risk of developing advanced macular degeneration by a whopping 25%.[xv]
4. Coconut Oil
The GreenMedInfo.com research database has 80 scientific abstracts on coconut oil's many healthiful properties. Despite all the favorable press in recent years, you may not know that one of coconut oil's benefits to health is retina protection.
Macular degeneration is the leading cause of vision loss in the U.S., affecting more than 10 million Americans, which is more than cataracts and glaucoma combined.[xvi] Age-related macular degeneration, or AMD, is diagnosed when an eye doctor detects drusen, yellow plaque-like deposits, under the surface of the retina. Over time, these deposits can blur the central field of vision and, if left untreated, vision loss can become severe and debilitating.[xvii]
One of the prime risk factors for developing AMD is exposure to ultraviolet light. A 1966 study found that rats who were fed a diet of coconut oil and exposed to bright light had significantly better retinal morphologies than rats in control groups, something researchers attributed to reduced caspase-3 activity.[xviii]
Caspase-3 is a family of protease enzymes that plays an essential role in inflammation and apoptosis, or programmed cellular death. Benefits to the retina increased when the dosage of coconut oil was doubled, suggesting that coconut oil was the significant factor behind these potent eye health benefits.[xix]
5. Oily Fish
Many fish are rich sources of omega-3 fatty acids. Oily fish are fish that have oil in their gut and body tissue, so eating them offers higher levels of omega-3-rich fish oil. The fish that contain the most beneficial levels of omega-3s include:
Tuna
Salmon
Trout
Mackerel
Sardines
Anchovies
Herring
Some studies have found that fish oil can reverse dry eye, including dry eye caused by spending too much time on a computer.
Your retinas need two types of omega-3 fatty acids to work right: DHA and EPA. You can find both in fatty fish, such as salmon, tuna and trout, as well as other seafood. Omega-3s also seem to protect your eyes from AMD and glaucoma. Low levels of these fatty acids have been linked to dry eyes. Be sure to choose fish sourced from non-polluted waters.


greenmedinfo--2020-08-07--Alpha-lipoic acid ameliorates sodium valproate-induced liver injury.

Aim : This study examines the effect of alpha-lipoic acid ( ALA ) on sodium valproate-induced liver injury through histological features of mice liver tissue .
Materials and Methods : Mice were divided into three groups ; ( 1 ) vehicle group , ( 2 ) sodium valproate group , and ( 3 ) sodium valproate-ALA group .
The vehicle group was injected with saline intraperitoneal ( i.p . )
for 28 days .
The sodium valproate group was injected with sodium valproate 300 mg/kg , i.p .
daily for 2 weeks , after which the vehicle was administered daily @ @ @ @ @ @ @ group was injected with sodium valproate 300 mg/kg daily for 2 weeks before the administration of ALA 100 mg/kg i.p .
until day 28 .
The mice were euthanized , and the liver was extracted for histopathological examination .
Results : Histopathological examination of the liver section of the vehicle group showed a normal structure of the liver .
Two weeks after the administration of sodium valproate , histopathological examination showed an abnormal structure of the liver , with necrotic appearance and inflammatory cells .
Moreover , treatment with ALA after the administration @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lesions and the liver structure corresponded to a normal liver structure .

Aim: This study examines the effect of alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) on sodium valproate-induced liver injury through histological features of mice liver tissue.
Materials and Methods: Mice were divided into three groups; (1) vehicle group, (2) sodium valproate group, and (3) sodium valproate-ALA group. The vehicle group was injected with saline intraperitoneal (i.p.) for 28 days. The sodium valproate group was injected with sodium valproate 300 mg/kg, i.p. daily for 2 weeks, after which the vehicle was administered daily until day 28. The sodium valproate-ALA group was injected with sodium valproate 300 mg/kg daily for 2 weeks before the administration of ALA 100 mg/kg i.p. until day 28. The mice were euthanized, and the liver was extracted for histopathological examination.
Results: Histopathological examination of the liver section of the vehicle group showed a normal structure of the liver. Two weeks after the administration of sodium valproate, histopathological examination showed an abnormal structure of the liver, with necrotic appearance and inflammatory cells. Moreover, treatment with ALA after the administration of sodium valproate notably ameliorated hepatic histopathological lesions and the liver structure corresponded to a normal liver structure.
Conclusion: ALA ameliorates sodium valproate-induced liver injury in mice.


greenmedinfo--2020-08-07--Alpha-lipoic acid: A possible pharmacological agent for treating dry eye disease and retinopathy in

Alpha-lipoic acid: A possible pharmacological agent for treating dry eye disease and retinopathy in diabetes.

Alpha-lipoic acid ( ALA ) is a naturally occurring dithiol micronutrient which acts as a cofactor for mitochondrial enzyme activity .
Due to its potential antioxidant activity , it is considered as '' universal antioxidant '' .
Previous studies reported the pharmacological benefits of ALA such as glycaemic control , improved insulin sensitivity and alleviation of diabetic complications such as neuropathy and cardiovascular diseases .
Dry eye disease and retinopathy are prevalent in diabetic patients .
Experimental studies demonstrated the beneficial effects of ALA in dry eye and diabetic retinopathy .
ALA can prevent the dry eye by down regulating @ @ @ @ @ @ @ corneal epithelial cells and activating the antioxidant status of the ocular surface .
Furthermore , its direct antioxidant effect can also prevent oxidative stress-induced corneal surface erosion and lachrymal gland damage .
ALA prevents diabetic retinopathy through inhibition of O-linkedβ-N-acetylglucosamine transferase and nuclear factor-kappa B activity and alleviation of oxidative stress .
It can activate the nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor 2 and AMP-activated protein kinase in retinal ganglion cells .
Clinical trials conducted in pre-retinopathic diabetic patients showed ALA with genistein and vitamins could protect the retinal cells and decline the inflammatory effect @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are scant to explore its beneficial effects in dry eye disease and diabetic retinopathy .
Therefore , this review article discusses an update on the role of ALAin dry eye disease and diabetic retinopathy , two ocular diseases prevalent in diabetic patients .

Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) is a naturally occurring dithiol micronutrient which acts as a cofactor for mitochondrial enzyme activity. Due to its potential antioxidant activity, it is considered as"universal antioxidant". Previous studies reported the pharmacological benefits of ALA such as glycaemic control, improved insulin sensitivity and alleviation of diabetic complications such as neuropathy and cardiovascular diseases. Dry eye disease and retinopathy are prevalent in diabetic patients. Experimental studies demonstrated the beneficial effects of ALA in dry eye and diabetic retinopathy. ALA can prevent the dry eye by down regulating the expression of matrix metalloproteinase-9 in the corneal epithelial cells and activating the antioxidant status of the ocular surface. Furthermore, its direct antioxidant effect can also prevent oxidative stress-induced corneal surface erosion and lachrymal gland damage. ALA prevents diabetic retinopathy through inhibition of O-linkedβ-N-acetylglucosamine transferase and nuclear factor-kappa B activity and alleviation of oxidative stress. It can activate the nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor 2 and AMP-activated protein kinase in retinal ganglion cells. Clinical trials conducted in pre-retinopathic diabetic patients showed ALA with genistein and vitamins could protect the retinal cells and decline the inflammatory effect in diabetic patients. However, studies are scant to explore its beneficial effects in dry eye disease and diabetic retinopathy. Therefore, this review article discusses an update on the role of ALAin dry eye disease and diabetic retinopathy, two ocular diseases prevalent in diabetic patients.


greenmedinfo--2020-08-07--Protective effect of alpha-lipoic acid on salivary dysfunction in a mouse model of radioiodine thera

Protective effect of alpha-lipoic acid on salivary dysfunction in a mouse model of radioiodine therapy-induced sialoadenitis.

Radioiodine ( RI ) therapy is known to cause salivary gland ( SG ) dysfunction .
The effects of antioxidants on RI-induced SG damage have not been well described .
This study was performed to investigate the radioprotective effects of alpha lipoic acid ( ALA ) administered prior to RI therapy in a mouse model of RI-induced sialadenitis .
Four-week-old female C57BL/6 mice were divided into four groups ( = 10 per group ) : group I , normal control ; group II , ALA alone ( 100 mg/kg ) ; group III , RI alone ( 0.01 mCi/g body @ @ @ @ @ @ @ IV , ALA + RI ( ALA at 100 mg/kg , 24 h and 30 min before RI exposure at 0.01 mCi/g body weight ) .
The animals in these groups were divided into two subgroups and euthanized at 30 or 90 days post-RI treatment .
Changes in salivaryTc pertechnetate uptake and excretion were tracked by single-photon emission computed tomography .
Salivary histological examinations and TUNEL assays were performed .
TheTc pertechnetate excretion level recovered in the ALA treatment group .
Salivary epithelial ( aquaporin 5 ) cells of the ALA + RI @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The ALA + RI group exhibited more mucin-containing parenchyma and less fibrotic tissues than the RI only group .
Fewer apoptotic cells were observed in the ALA + RI group compared to the RI only group .
Pretreatment with ALA before RI therapy is potentially beneficial in protecting against RI-induced salivary dysfunction .

Radioiodine (RI) therapy is known to cause salivary gland (SG) dysfunction. The effects of antioxidants on RI-induced SG damage have not been well described. This study was performed to investigate the radioprotective effects of alpha lipoic acid (ALA) administered prior to RI therapy in a mouse model of RI-induced sialadenitis. Four-week-old female C57BL/6 mice were divided into four groups (= 10 per group): group I, normal control; group II, ALA alone (100 mg/kg); group III, RI alone (0.01 mCi/g body weight, orally); and group IV, ALA + RI (ALA at 100 mg/kg, 24 h and 30 min before RI exposure at 0.01 mCi/g body weight). The animals in these groups were divided into two subgroups and euthanized at 30 or 90 days post-RI treatment. Changes in salivaryTc pertechnetate uptake and excretion were tracked by single-photon emission computed tomography. Salivary histological examinations and TUNEL assays were performed. TheTc pertechnetate excretion level recovered in the ALA treatment group. Salivary epithelial (aquaporin 5) cells of the ALA + RI group were protected from RI damage. The ALA + RI group exhibited more mucin-containing parenchyma and less fibrotic tissues than the RI only group. Fewer apoptotic cells were observed in the ALA + RI group compared to the RI only group. Pretreatment with ALA before RI therapy is potentially beneficial in protecting against RI-induced salivary dysfunction.


greenmedinfo--2020-08-07--Alpha-lipoic acid consumption can be an important complementary therapeutic option to prevent the pr

Alpha-lipoic acid consumption can be an important complementary therapeutic option to prevent the progression of CVD in β-thalassemia major patients.

Aim : Thalassemia is one of the most common genetic diseases , andcardiovascular disease ( CVD ) has been considered as the leading cause of mortality in more than 50 % of β-thalassemia patients .
The aim of this study was to determine the effects of alpha-lipoic acid ( ALA ) on CVD risk factors in β-thalassemia major patients .
Methods : Twentyβ-thalassemia major patients participated in this randomized crossover clinical trial study .
Participants were randomly assigned to ALA ( 600 mg/day ) or placebo groups for two 8-wk interventions that were separated by a 3-wk washout period .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( OPG ) , homocysteine , lipoprotein-associated phospholipase Aand trimethylamine-oxide were measured at the beginning and the end of each intervention phase according to the standard protocol .
Results : Serum OPG reduced significantly in the ALA group in all participants ( 5.38± 2.79 to 3.27 ± 2.43 ng/mL , = .003 ) and in the male subgroup ( 5.24± 2.56 to 3.13 ± 2.5 ng/mL , = .015 ) ; this reduction was significant in comparison with the placebo group ( = .013 ) .
The changes in other CVD risk factors @ @ @ @ @ @ @ results of this study showed that after 8-wk of ALA consumption , the serum OPG reduced significantly inβ-thalassemia major patients .
Therefore , controlling the serum OPG level with ALA consumption can be an important complementary therapeutic option to prevent the progression of CVD in β-thalassemia major patients .

Aim: Thalassemia is one of the most common genetic diseases, andcardiovascular disease (CVD) has been considered as the leading cause of mortality in more than 50% of β-thalassemia patients. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) on CVD risk factors in β-thalassemia major patients.
Methods: Twentyβ-thalassemia major patients participated in this randomized crossover clinical trial study. Participants were randomly assigned to ALA (600 mg/day) or placebo groups for two 8-wk interventions that were separated by a 3-wk washout period. The CVD risk factors including serum osteoprotegerin (OPG),homocysteine, lipoprotein-associated phospholipase Aand trimethylamine-oxide were measured at the beginning and the end of each intervention phase according to the standard protocol.
Results: Serum OPG reduced significantly in the ALA group in all participants (5.38± 2.79 to 3.27 ± 2.43 ng/mL,= .003) and in the male subgroup (5.24± 2.56 to 3.13 ± 2.5 ng/mL,= .015); this reduction was significant in comparison with the placebo group (= .013). The changes in other CVD risk factors were not significant.
Conclusion: The results of this study showed that after 8-wk of ALA consumption, the serum OPG reduced significantly inβ-thalassemia major patients. Therefore, controlling the serum OPG level with ALA consumption can be an important complementary therapeutic option to prevent the progression of CVD in β-thalassemia major patients.


greenmedinfo--2020-08-07--Alpha-lipoic acid protects against ERS-mediated apoptosis in a cochlear cell model.

A/J mouse is a model of age-related hearing loss ( AHL ) .
Mutation in the citrate synthase ( Cs ) gene of the mouse plays an important role in the hearing loss and degeneration of cochlear cells .
To investigate the pathogenesis of cochlear cell damage in A/J mice resulted from Cs mutation , we downregulated the expression level of CS in HEI-OC1 , a cell line of mouse cochlea , by shRNA .
The results showed that low CS expression led to low ability of cell proliferation .
Further study revealed an increase level of reactive oxygen species @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mediated endoplasmic reticulum stress ( ERS ) and high expression levels of caspase12 and Bax in the cells .
Moreover , the AEBSF , an ATF6 inhibitor , could reduce the expression levels of caspase-12 and Bax by inhibiting the hydrolysis of ATF6 in the cells .
Finally , antioxidant alpha-lipoic acid ( ALA ) reduced the ROS levels and the apoptotic signals in the cell model with low CS expression .
We therefore conclude that the ERS mediated apoptosis , which is triggered by ROS , may be involved in the cell @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .

A/J mouse is a model of age-related hearing loss (AHL). Mutation in the citrate synthase (Cs) gene of the mouse plays an important role in the hearing loss and degeneration of cochlear cells. To investigate the pathogenesis of cochlear cell damage in A/J mice resulted from Cs mutation, we downregulated the expression level of CS in HEI-OC1, a cell line of mouse cochlea, by shRNA. The results showed that low CS expression led to low ability of cell proliferation. Further study revealed an increase level of reactive oxygen species (ROS), activation of ATF6 mediated endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) and high expression levels of caspase12 and Bax in the cells. Moreover, the AEBSF, an ATF6 inhibitor, could reduce the expression levels of caspase-12 and Bax by inhibiting the hydrolysis of ATF6 in the cells. Finally, antioxidant alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) reduced the ROS levels and the apoptotic signals in the cell model with low CS expression. We therefore conclude that the ERS mediated apoptosis, which is triggered by ROS, may be involved in the cell degeneration in the cochleae of A/J mice.


greenmedinfo--2020-08-07--Therapeutic efficacy of alpha-lipoic acid against acute myocardial infarction and chronic left ventr

Therapeutic efficacy of alpha-lipoic acid against acute myocardial infarction and chronic left ventricular remodelling.

Background : We hypothesized that daily administration of a potent antioxidant ( -lipoic acid : ALA ) would protect the heart against both acute myocardial infarction ( AMI ) and left ventricular remodeling ( LVR ) post-AMI .
Methods and Results : Two separate studies were conducted .
In the AMI study , C57Bl/6 mice were fed ALA daily for 7 d prior to a 45-minute occlusion of the left coronary artery ( LCA ) .
Mean infarct size in control mice ( fed water ) was 60 ± 2 % .
Mean infarct size in ALA-treated mice was 42 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ group and 39 ± 3 % in the 75 mg/kg·d group ( both < 0.05 vs. control ) .
In the LVR study , AMI increased LV end-systolic volume ( LVESV ) and reduced LV ejection fraction ( LVEF ) to a similar extent in both groups when assessed by cardiac MRI 1 day after a 2-hour LCA occlusion .
Treatment with ALA ( 75 mg/kg·d ) or HO was initiated 1 day post-AMI and continued until study 's end .
Both LVESV and LVEF in ALA-treated mice were significantly improved over control @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Furthermore , the survival rate in ALA-treated mice was 63 % better than in control mice by 56 days post-AMI .
Conclusions : Daily oral ingestion of ALA not only protects mice against AMI but also attenuates LVR and preserves contractile function in the months that follow .

Background: We hypothesized that daily administration of a potent antioxidant (-lipoic acid: ALA) would protect the heart against both acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and left ventricular remodeling (LVR) post-AMI.
Methods and Results: Two separate studies were conducted. In the AMI study, C57Bl/6 mice were fed ALA daily for 7 d prior to a 45-minute occlusion of the left coronary artery (LCA). Mean infarct size in control mice (fed water) was 60 ± 2%. Mean infarct size in ALA-treated mice was 42 ± 3% in the 15 mg/kg·d group and 39 ± 3% in the 75 mg/kg·d group (both<0.05 vs. control). In the LVR study, AMI increased LV end-systolic volume (LVESV) and reduced LV ejection fraction (LVEF) to a similar extent in both groups when assessed by cardiac MRI 1 day after a 2-hour LCA occlusion. Treatment with ALA (75 mg/kg·d) or HO was initiated 1 day post-AMI and continued until study's end. Both LVESV and LVEF in ALA-treated mice were significantly improved over control when assessed 28 or 56 days post-AMI. Furthermore, the survival rate in ALA-treated mice was 63% better than in control mice by 56 days post-AMI.
Conclusions: Daily oral ingestion of ALA not only protects mice against AMI but also attenuates LVR and preserves contractile function in the months that follow.


greenmedinfo--2020-08-07--Oral 600mg alpha-lipoic acid twice daily treatment for diabetic peripheral neuropathy over 6 months

Oral 600mg alpha-lipoic acid twice daily treatment for diabetic peripheral neuropathy over 6 months is effective, safe and tolerable.

BACKGROUND : Alpha-lipoic acid ( ALA ) was tried in treatment of diabetic peripheral neuropathy ( DPN ) using different routes , doses and treatment durations .
The aim of this work is to assess the efficacy of oral 600mg ALA twice daily over 6 months in treatment of patients with DPN .
METHODS : This is a prospective , single-center , double-blinded , placebo-controlled study conducted at the outpatient clinics of Mansoura Specialized Hospital , Mansoura University .
A total of 200 patients with DPN were randomly assigned to add on treatment with either oral 600mg twice daily ALA @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) for 6 months .
Treatment outcome was assessed using vibration perception threshold ( VPT ) , neurological symptom score ( NSS ) , neurological disability score ( NDS ) , and visual analog scale ( VAS ) for pain at baseline and at each visit ( 1 , 3 and 6 months ) after the start of treatment .
RESULTS : Comparison between the study groups regarding the baseline data revealed no statistically significant differences .
In respect to the outcome parameters , no significant differences were found between the studied groups @ @ @ @ @ @ @ visits , ALA treated patients had significantly better resultsregarding almost all the outcome parameters ( NSS , NDS , VAS , VPT ) .
Mild nausea was reported in 6 patients .
None of the studied patients discontinued treatment .
CONCLUSIONS : Oral 600mg ALA twice daily treatment for DPN over 6 months is effective , safe and tolerable .

BACKGROUND: Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) was tried in treatment of diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) using different routes, doses and treatment durations. The aim of this work is to assess the efficacy of oral 600mg ALA twice daily over 6 months in treatment of patients with DPN.
METHODS: This is a prospective, single-center, double-blinded, placebo-controlled study conducted at the outpatient clinics of Mansoura Specialized Hospital, Mansoura University. A total of 200 patients with DPN were randomly assigned to add on treatment with either oral 600mg twice daily ALA (n=100) or placebo (n=100) for 6 months. Treatment outcome was assessed using vibration perception threshold (VPT), neurological symptom score (NSS), neurological disability score (NDS), and visual analog scale (VAS) for pain at baseline and at each visit (1, 3 and 6 months) after the start of treatment.
RESULTS: Comparison between the study groups regarding the baseline data revealed no statistically significant differences. In respect to the outcome parameters, no significant differences were found between the studied groups at baseline. However, in subsequent visits, ALA treated patients had significantly better resultsregarding almost all the outcome parameters (NSS, NDS, VAS, VPT). Mild nausea was reported in 6 patients. None of the studied patients discontinued treatment.
CONCLUSIONS: Oral 600mg ALA twice daily treatment for DPN over 6 months is effective, safe and tolerable.


greenmedinfo--2020-08-07--Seaweed Sargassum vulgare is a promising functional food ingredient to minimize aspartame-associated

Seaweed Sargassum vulgare is a promising functional food ingredient to minimize aspartame-associated toxicity.

Thirty-two male Wistar albino rats were chosen to test the possible protective role of antioxidants of the edible seaweedas a functional food additive to alleviate oxidative stress and toxicity associated with consumption of the artificial sweetener 'aspartame ( ASP ) ' .
Biochemical and spleen histopathological analyses of the orally ASP-administrated rats , at a dose of 500 mg/kg for one week daily , showed different apoptotic and inflammatory patterns .
Rats treated with ASP and then supplemented orally with the-MeOH extract , at a dose of 150 mg/kg for three consecutive weeks daily , showed significant positive reactions in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The protective and immune-stimulant efficacy of-MeOH extract , inferred from combating oxidative stress-induced lipid peroxidation , modulating the low levels of the endogenous antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase ( SOD ) and catalase ( CAT ) and of the thyroid hormones T3 and T4 , attenuating the elevated levels of apoptotic CASP-3 and inflammatory biomarkers TNF-α and IL-6 , as well as heat shock proteins ( Hsp70 ) , can be most likely ascribed to the synergistic effect of its potent antioxidant phenolics ( mainly gallic , ferulic , salicylic , and chlorogenic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rutin , kaempferol , and hesperidin ) .
Mechanism of action of these natural antioxidants was discussed .

Thirty-two male Wistar albino rats were chosen to test the possible protective role of antioxidants of the edible seaweedas a functional food additive to alleviate oxidative stress and toxicity associated with consumption of the artificial sweetener 'aspartame (ASP)'. Biochemical and spleen histopathological analyses of the orally ASP-administrated rats, at a dose of 500 mg/kg for one week daily, showed different apoptotic and inflammatory patterns. Rats treated with ASP and then supplemented orally with the-MeOH extract, at a dose of 150 mg/kg for three consecutive weeks daily, showed significant positive reactions in all investigated assays related to ASP consumption. The protective and immune-stimulant efficacy of-MeOH extract, inferred from combating oxidative stress-induced lipid peroxidation, modulating the low levels of the endogenous antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) and of the thyroid hormones T3 and T4, attenuating the elevated levels of apoptotic CASP-3 and inflammatory biomarkers TNF-α and IL-6, as well as heat shock proteins (Hsp70), can be most likely ascribed to the synergistic effect of its potent antioxidant phenolics (mainly gallic, ferulic, salicylic, and chlorogenic, and-coumaric acids) and flavonoids (rutin, kaempferol, and hesperidin). Mechanism of action of these natural antioxidants was discussed.


greenmedinfo--2020-08-07--Ruta graveolens as a potential source of neuroactive compounds to promote and restore neural functio

Ruta graveolens as a potential source of neuroactive compounds to promote and restore neural functions.

Nutraceuticals had always been known for their therapeutic effects in ancient medicine and had been the primary healing remedy until the introduction of modern chemistry and pharmacology .
However , their use has not been dismissed but actually is acquiring a new acclamation among the scientific community especially for their efficacy on the Central Nervous System ( CNS ) .
Molecular mechanisms of the most common neurodegenerative diseases are now being uncovered and along with that the molecules that drive the neurodegenerative processes .
It is not surprising that some natural compounds can interact with those molecules and interfere with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ultimately lead to neuronal cell death .
The planthas gained increased attention in medicinal chemistry due to its beneficial role to treat a variety of human diseases and also because of the presence of a huge number of compounds belonging to different classes of natural products , including neuroactive compounds potentially able to promote neuroprotection .
Among all the components of the plant extract , rutin - which is highly , if not the most , abundant - positively interacts with the neurophysiology of the CNS too , being particularly efficient against neurotoxicity @ @ @ @ @ @ @ protective in a variety of experimental settings of neurodegeneration .
Finally , it has been shown that the water extract of ( RGWE ) induces death of glioblastoma cells but not of neuronal cells .
Moreover , it also fosters cell cycle re-entry and differentiation of neuronal cells .
This peculiarity represents a promising tool to promote neural plasticity in pathological conditions .

Nutraceuticals had always been known for their therapeutic effects in ancient medicine and had been the primary healing remedy until the introduction of modern chemistry and pharmacology. However, their use has not been dismissed but actually is acquiring a new acclamation among the scientific community especially for their efficacy on the Central Nervous System (CNS). Molecular mechanisms of the most common neurodegenerative diseases are now being uncovered and along with that the molecules that drive the neurodegenerative processes. It is not surprising that some natural compounds can interact with those molecules and interfere with the pathological pathways halting the cascades that ultimately lead to neuronal cell death. The planthas gained increased attention in medicinal chemistry due to its beneficial role to treat a variety of human diseases and also because of the presence of a huge number of compounds belonging to different classes of natural products, including neuroactive compounds potentially able to promote neuroprotection. Among all the components of the plant extract, rutin - which is highly, if not the most, abundant - positively interacts with the neurophysiology of the CNS too, being particularly efficient against neurotoxicity. Rutin, has proven to be protective in a variety of experimental settings of neurodegeneration. Finally, it has been shown that the water extract of(RGWE) induces death of glioblastoma cells but not of neuronal cells. Moreover, it also fosters cell cycle re-entry and differentiation of neuronal cells. This peculiarity represents a promising tool to promote neural plasticity in pathological conditions.


greenmedinfo--2020-08-07--Antiviral, antifungal, and insecticidal activities of eucalyptus bark extract.

In this study , the antiviral , antifungal , and insecticidal and HPLC analysis of polyphenolic compounds of Eucaluptus camaldulensis Dehnh .
bark extract ( ECBE ) were evaluated .
Three fungi , namely Fusarium culmorum MN398395 , Rhizoctonia solani MN398397 , and Botrytis cinerea MN398399 were used to colonize wood blocks of chinaberry that was previously treated with different concentrations of ECBE at 1 % , 2 % , and 3 % .
Antiviral evaluations ( protective , curative , and inactivating activities ) of the extract at 100 μg/mL were assayed against Tobacco mosaic virus ( TMV ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the inhibitory percentage towards the number of local lesions .
The protective treatment of Nicotiana glutinosa leaves exhibited excellent activity ( 72.22 % ) with a 91.1-fold reduction in TMV-CPaccumulation in infected tissues .
Furthermore , Real-time quantitative PCR revealed that the expression level of PAL and PR-1 ( salicylic acid marker ) genes were significantly up regulated at four days-post inoculation ( dpi ) for all treatments compared to untreated leaves .
The insecticidal effect wasscreened by the contact and fumigant methods against Tribolium castaneum ( Herbst ) and Sitophilus oryzae L. @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all concentrations 1 , 5 , 10 , 20 and 30 ppm caused 100 % toxicity to the two tested pests within 24 h , whereas the fumigant assay , gave the highest mortality against T. castaneum and S. oryzae by 20 ppm ( 61.66 % ) and 30 ppm ( 57.77 % ) , respectively after 24 h. The HPLC analysis of ECBE revealed that benzoic acid , quinol , salicylic acid , myricetin , and rutin were the most abundant polyphenolic compounds found in the extract .
In conclusion , when @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fungal mycelia was decreased compared with the control , especially against F. culmorum .
According to the hypotheses of the results , the ECBE recommended to prevent the wood from discoloration , fungal molds by acting as bio-preservative , also trigger the resistance of plants against viral infection and high toxicity against stored-product insects .

In this study, the antiviral, antifungal, and insecticidal and HPLC analysis of polyphenolic compounds of Eucaluptus camaldulensis Dehnh. bark extract (ECBE) were evaluated. Three fungi, namely Fusarium culmorum MN398395, Rhizoctonia solani MN398397, and Botrytis cinerea MN398399 were used to colonize wood blocks of chinaberry that was previously treated with different concentrations of ECBE at 1%, 2%, and 3%. Antiviral evaluations (protective, curative, and inactivating activities) of the extract at 100 μg/mL were assayed against Tobacco mosaic virus (TMV) MG264131 using the half-leaf method to determine the inhibitory percentage towards the number of local lesions. The protective treatment of Nicotiana glutinosa leaves exhibited excellent activity (72.22%) with a 91.1-fold reduction in TMV-CPaccumulation in infected tissues. Furthermore, Real-time quantitative PCR revealed that the expression level of PAL and PR-1 (salicylic acid marker) genes were significantly up regulated at four days-post inoculation (dpi) for all treatments compared to untreated leaves. The insecticidal effect wasscreened by the contact and fumigant methods against Tribolium castaneum (Herbst) and Sitophilus oryzae L. in vitro. In contact assay, all concentrations 1, 5, 10, 20 and 30 ppm caused 100% toxicity to the two tested pests within 24 h, whereas the fumigant assay, gave the highest mortality against T. castaneum and S. oryzae by 20 ppm (61.66%) and 30 ppm (57.77%), respectively after 24 h. The HPLC analysis of ECBE revealed that benzoic acid, quinol, salicylic acid, myricetin, and rutin were the most abundant polyphenolic compounds found in the extract. In conclusion, when the extractconcentration increases, the growth of fungal mycelia was decreased compared with the control, especially against F. culmorum. According to the hypotheses of the results, the ECBE recommended to prevent the wood from discoloration, fungal molds by acting as bio-preservative, also trigger the resistance of plants against viral infection and high toxicity against stored-product insects.


greenmedinfo--2020-08-07--Potency of combining Eucalyptus camaldulensis with low-dose cisplatin in A549 human lung adenocarcin

Potency of combining Eucalyptus camaldulensis with low-dose cisplatin in A549 human lung adenocarcinomas and MCF-7 breast adenocarcinoma.

Lung and breast cancers are common in the world and represent major public health problems .
Systemic chemotherapy is an effective way to prolong survival but it is associated with side effects .
Plants are used as traditional treatments for many types of cancers , mostly in combination with chemotherapy .
We investigated the antitumor effect of ethanolic ( EE ) and aqueous ( AE ) extracts ofon human alveolar adenocarcinoma basal epithelial cells ( A549 ) and breast adenocarcinoma cell line ( MCF-7 ) and checked the synergistic effect of the combination with low-dose cisplatin ( CDDP ) .AE @ @ @ @ @ @ @ metabolites including content of phenol and antioxidant activity of both extracts .
Cell viability was tested by the neutral red assay and MTT .
Combinations of extract with low-dose CDDP on A549 , MCF-7 cells , and normal cells peripheral blood mononuclear cells was used to study cell viability.AE contains higher level of active constituents than EE .
Higher antioxidant activity was observed in AE .
Both extracts showed cytotoxic activity on A549 and MCF-7 cells .
Moreover , combiningwith low-dose CDDP increases significantly the cell death of treated cells in comparison to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a new therapeutic concept that combineswith low-dose CDDP to treat lung and breast adenocarcinoma .

Lung and breast cancers are common in the world and represent major public health problems. Systemic chemotherapy is an effective way to prolong survival but it is associated with side effects. Plants are used as traditional treatments for many types of cancers, mostly in combination with chemotherapy. We investigated the antitumor effect of ethanolic (EE) and aqueous (AE) extracts ofon human alveolar adenocarcinoma basal epithelial cells (A549) and breast adenocarcinoma cell line (MCF-7) and checked the synergistic effect of the combination with low-dose cisplatin (CDDP).AE and EE were characterized for their secondary metabolites including content of phenol and antioxidant activity of both extracts. Cell viability was tested by the neutral red assay and MTT. Combinations of extract with low-dose CDDP on A549, MCF-7 cells, and normal cells peripheral blood mononuclear cells was used to study cell viability.AE contains higher level of active constituents than EE. Higher antioxidant activity was observed in AE. Both extracts showed cytotoxic activity on A549 and MCF-7 cells. Moreover, combiningwith low-dose CDDP increases significantly the cell death of treated cells in comparison to those treated with CDDP alone.Our results highlight a new therapeutic concept that combineswith low-dose CDDP to treat lung and breast adenocarcinoma.


greenmedinfo--2020-08-07--The use of eucalyptus hydroalcoholic extract may be associated with reduced intensity of oral mucosi

The use of eucalyptus hydroalcoholic extract may be associated with reduced intensity of oral mucositis.

Oral mucositis is a common inflammatory complication among patients with cancer .
This study evaluated the histopathological , stereological , and antioxidant markers of 2 % eucalyptus extract in induced oral mucositis in male golden hamsters .
In this animal study , oral mucositis was induced in 30 male golden hamsters by 5-FU ( 60 mg/kg ) on days 0 , 5 , and 10 of the study .
The cheek pouch was scratched with a sterile needle once daily on days 3 and 4 .
On days 14-17 , 2 % eucalyptus hydroalcoholic extract gel and Calendula officinalis extract @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with a non-treated control group .
The histopathological and stereological scores and the pouch content of malondialdehyde , as well as the activities of glutathione and myeloperoxidase in the pouch tissue , were evaluated .
Histopathologic scores of oral mucositis were lower in the eucalyptus gel group than those of the calendula and control groups ( p < 0.05 ) .
Also , a lower malondialdehyde level and higher myeloperoxidase and glutathione activities were detected in the eucalyptus group in comparison to the calendula and control groups ( p < 0.001 ) .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ increased in the eucalyptus group .
The numerical density of the fibroblast and the volume density of the collagen significantly increased in the eucalyptus group .
In conclusion , the use of eucalyptus hydroalcoholic extract may be associated with reduced intensity of oral mucositis , diminished concentration of malondialdehyde , increased activity of myeloperoxidase and glutathione , increased volume of mucosa and submucosa , increased fibroblast and collagen in the induced oral mucositis in golden hamsters undergoing 5-FU consumption .

Oral mucositis is a common inflammatory complication among patients with cancer. This study evaluated the histopathological, stereological, and antioxidant markers of 2% eucalyptus extract in induced oral mucositis in male golden hamsters. In this animal study, oral mucositis was induced in 30 male golden hamsters by 5-FU (60 mg/kg) on days 0, 5, and 10 of the study. The cheek pouch was scratched with a sterile needle once daily on days 3 and 4. On days 14-17, 2% eucalyptus hydroalcoholic extract gel and Calendula officinalis extract gel groups were treated and then compared with a non-treated control group. The histopathological and stereological scores and the pouch content of malondialdehyde, as well as the activities of glutathione and myeloperoxidase in the pouch tissue, were evaluated. Histopathologic scores of oral mucositis were lower in the eucalyptus gel group than those of the calendula and control groups (p<0.05). Also, a lower malondialdehyde level and higher myeloperoxidase and glutathione activities were detected in the eucalyptus group in comparison to the calendula and control groups (p<0.001). The thickness of the mucosa and submucosa increased in the eucalyptus group. The numerical density of the fibroblast and the volume density of the collagen significantly increased in the eucalyptus group. In conclusion, the use of eucalyptus hydroalcoholic extract may be associated with reduced intensity of oral mucositis, diminished concentration of malondialdehyde, increased activity of myeloperoxidase and glutathione, increased volume of mucosa and submucosa, increased fibroblast and collagen in the induced oral mucositis in golden hamsters undergoing 5-FU consumption.


greenmedinfo--2020-08-07--Eucalyptus essential oils inhibit the lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammatory response in RAW264.7 m

Eucalyptus essential oils inhibit the lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammatory response in RAW264.7 macrophages.

BACKGROUND : Eucalyptus essential oils have been used in traditional medicine for centuries .
It was reported that Eucalyptus leaves possess antioxidant and antimicrobial effects .
Here , we investigated the anti-inflammatory activity of the essential oils extracted from the leaves of four different Eucalyptus species in RAW264.7 macrophages .
METHODS : Lipopolysaccharide ( LPS ) -activated RAW264.7 macrophages were used to evaluate the anti-inflammatory activity of the leaf essential oils of Eucalyptus .
The cell survival was quantified by an Alamar Blue assay .
Nitric oxide ( NO ) production was assessed by Griess reaction .
TNF-α and IL-6 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( ELISA ) .
Nuclear factor-κB ( NF-κB ) transcriptional activity was measured by NF-κB reporter assay .
Intracellular protein expression levels were determined by Western blot .
The expression levels of inducible NO synthase ( iNOS ) , cyclooxygenase-2 ( COX-2 ) , mitogen-activated protein kinase ( MAPK ) , protein kinase C ( PKC ) and NF-κB pathway were measured by western blot in LPS-activated RAW 264.7 macrophage .
RESULTS : The essential oils extracted from Eucalyptus citriodora leaf exert the best NO inhibitory activity in LPS-activated RAW264.7 macrophages .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and fraction F has been demonstrated to inhibit the expression levels of TNF-α , IL-6 , NO , iNOS and COX-2 in LPS-activated RAW264.7 macrophages .
Mechanistic analysis revealed that fraction F reduced the phosphorylation levels of ERK1/2 , p38 , PKC-α , PKC-ε and PKC-δ , and inhibited the NF-κB transcriptional activity .
The chemical composition of Fraction F was determined byGC-MS .
CONCLUSIONS : The discoveries made herein could help develop innovative nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs with minimal side effects and strong efficacy .
Clinical trials on these Eucalyptus leaf essential @ @ @ @ @ @ @ therapeutic administration .

BACKGROUND: Eucalyptus essential oils have been used in traditional medicine for centuries. It was reported that Eucalyptus leaves possess antioxidant and antimicrobial effects. Here, we investigated the anti-inflammatory activity of the essential oils extracted from the leaves of four different Eucalyptus species in RAW264.7 macrophages.
METHODS: Lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-activated RAW264.7 macrophages were used to evaluate the anti-inflammatory activity of the leaf essential oils of Eucalyptus. The cell survival was quantified by an Alamar Blue assay. Nitric oxide (NO) production was assessed by Griess reaction. TNF-α and IL-6 production were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) transcriptional activity was measured by NF-κB reporter assay. Intracellular protein expression levels were determined by Western blot. The expression levels of inducible NO synthase (iNOS), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), protein kinase C (PKC) and NF-κB pathway were measured by western blot in LPS-activated RAW 264.7 macrophage.
RESULTS: The essential oils extracted from Eucalyptus citriodora leaf exert the best NO inhibitory activity in LPS-activated RAW264.7 macrophages. The essential oils were fractionated into fractions A-H, and fraction F has been demonstrated to inhibit the expression levels of TNF-α, IL-6, NO, iNOS and COX-2 in LPS-activated RAW264.7 macrophages. Mechanistic analysis revealed that fraction F reduced the phosphorylation levels of ERK1/2, p38, PKC-α, PKC-ε and PKC-δ, and inhibited the NF-κB transcriptional activity. The chemical composition of Fraction F was determined byGC-MS.
CONCLUSIONS: The discoveries made herein could help develop innovative nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs with minimal side effects and strong efficacy. Clinical trials on these Eucalyptus leaf essential oils will help customize and optimize their therapeutic administration.


greenmedinfo--2020-08-07--Modulatory-antibiotic activity of the essential oil from Eucalyptus citriodora against MDR bacterial

Modulatory-antibiotic activity of the essential oil from Eucalyptus citriodora against MDR bacterial strains.

The growing number of bacterial strains resistant to therapeutic agents has been surpassing the various antibiotics developed by the chemical and pharmaceutical industries .
This problem has driven the development of research using agents with antimicrobial potential , with an emphasis on plant-derived natural products .
This study evaluated the chemical compounds present in Eucalyptus citriodora essential oil ( EOEc ) cultivated in northeastern Brazil and its properties as an antibacterial agent and resistance modifier against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus ( MRSA ) andβ-lactamase-producing strains .
The EOEc was obtained using the hydrodistillation method , later analyzed by GC/MS , presenting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ citronellal ( 65.45 % ) ; citronellol ( 14.87 % ) ; isopulegol ( 11.80 % ) and citronellyl acetate ( 2.51 % ) as its main constituents .
The microdilutiontest was used to determine the minimum inhibitory concentration ( MIC ) and the bacterial resistance modulation of the essential oil .
The EOEc did not present significant activity against the tested strains ( MIC > 1000µg mL-1 ) .
However , when evaluating the capacity of the EOEc to modify the resistance of S. aureus and E. coli strains to different antimicrobials @ @ @ @ @ @ @ MIC values for all tested antibiotics being obtained .
The EOEc showed antimicrobial and β-lactam optimizing potential against resistant strains , presenting itself as a possible alternative for the use of these drugs at concentrations lower than those indicated against resistant strains .

The growing number of bacterial strains resistant to therapeutic agents has been surpassing the various antibiotics developed by the chemical and pharmaceutical industries. This problem has driven the development of research using agents with antimicrobial potential, with an emphasis on plant-derived natural products. This study evaluated the chemical compounds present in Eucalyptus citriodora essential oil (EOEc) cultivated in northeastern Brazil and its properties as an antibacterial agent and resistance modifier against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) andβ-lactamase-producing strains. The EOEc was obtained using the hydrodistillation method, later analyzed by GC/MS, presenting a total of twelve compounds, with citronellal (65.45%); citronellol (14.87%); isopulegol (11.80%) and citronellyl acetate (2.51%) as its main constituents. The microdilutiontest was used to determine the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and the bacterial resistance modulation of the essential oil. The EOEc did not present significant activity against the tested strains (MIC> 1000µg mL-1). However, when evaluating the capacity of the EOEc to modify the resistance of S. aureus and E. coli strains to different antimicrobials, synergistic effects were obtained with reduced MIC values for all tested antibiotics being obtained. The EOEc showed antimicrobial and β-lactam optimizing potential against resistant strains, presenting itself as a possible alternative for the use of these drugs at concentrations lower than those indicated against resistant strains.


greenmedinfo--2020-08-07--Protective effect of Lycium barbarum polysaccharide on ethanol-induced injury in human hepatocyte an

Protective effect of Lycium barbarum polysaccharide on ethanol-induced injury in human hepatocyte and its mechanism.

The purpose of this research is to study the effect of Lycium barbarum polysaccharide on ethanol-induced liver injury and its mechanism .
The cell survival rate , the apoptosis rate , and the intracellular ROS level was detected by MTT assay , flow cytometry , laser confocal microscopy , and fluorescence spectrophotometry , respectively .
The antioxidative indices were determined by ELISA kits and the protein level was detected by western blot .
The result showed Lycium barbarum polysaccharide could protect ethanol-induced cell injury by reducing cell apoptosis and regulating the levels of indicators related to oxidative stress , such @ @ @ @ @ @ @ etc .
In addition , LBP could increase the nuclear expression of Nrf2 protein and significantly up-regulate the expression levels of Nrf2 protein and its downstream proteins , such as HO-1 , NQO1 , and GCLC in the cell nucleus .
Therefore , Lycium barbarum polysaccharide has a protective effect on ethanol-induced liver cell injury and it plays the role in cell apoptosis pathway and oxidative stress pathway .
PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS : Lycium barbarum is a kind of food that can be used as food and medicine in China .
The result showed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ liver cell injury , which is beneficial to the application of LBP in functional food .

The purpose of this research is to study the effect of Lycium barbarum polysaccharide on ethanol-induced liver injury and its mechanism. The cell survival rate, the apoptosis rate, and the intracellular ROS level was detected by MTT assay, flow cytometry, laser confocal microscopy, and fluorescence spectrophotometry, respectively. The antioxidative indices were determined by ELISA kits and the protein level was detected by western blot. The result showed Lycium barbarum polysaccharide could protect ethanol-induced cell injury by reducing cell apoptosis and regulating the levels of indicators related to oxidative stress, such as ROS, MDA, SOD, etc. In addition, LBP could increase the nuclear expression of Nrf2 protein and significantly up-regulate the expression levels of Nrf2 protein and its downstream proteins, such as HO-1, NQO1, and GCLC in the cell nucleus. Therefore, Lycium barbarum polysaccharide has a protective effect on ethanol-induced liver cell injury and it plays the role in cell apoptosis pathway and oxidative stress pathway. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Lycium barbarum is a kind of food that can be used as food and medicine in China. The result showed that Lycium barbarum polysaccharide could protect ethanol-induced liver cell injury, which is beneficial to the application of LBP in functional food.


greenmedinfo--2020-08-07--These results indicated that Lycium barbarum polysaccharide possess antidepressant activities.

Depressive disorder will be the second highest disease burden worldwide , which will impair life quality , reduce productivity , and increase disability and mortality.polysaccharide ( LBP ) is the main active fraction purified fromThe aim of this study was to evaluate the potential therapeutic effects of LBP on depressive mice induced by reserpine , as well as the relevant mechanisms .
The antidepressant effect of LBP was investigated by open field test ( OFT ) , forced swimming test ( FST ) , tail suspension test ( TST ) , and antagonism of reserpine hypothermia and ptosis in mice @ @ @ @ @ @ @ oxidative status and antioxidation power of striatum in both control and depressive mice with or without LBP treatment .
To explore the mechanism of LBP on regulating antioxidants in the depressive mice , we detected the expression level of Bcl-2 and poly ( ADP ribose ) polymerase ( PARP ) in striatum of mice by western blotting .
The results showed that administration with LBP for 4 consecutive weeks significantly increased locomotor activity , reduced the duration of immobility , and antagonized hypothermia and ptosis in mice induced by reserpine .
Also , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lipid peroxidation ( LPO ) production , and enhance the antioxidation effect of the striatum in depressive mice .
Furthermore , LBP inhibited the decreased extent of the apoptotic suppressors , Bcl-2 and PARP , which were markedly decreased after treatment with reserpine .
The above results indicated that LBP possess antidepressant activities , probably via its powerful antioxidative properties and then decreased the apoptosis of striatum neuron .

Depressive disorder will be the second highest disease burden worldwide, which will impair life quality, reduce productivity, and increase disability and mortality.polysaccharide (LBP) is the main active fraction purified fromThe aim of this study was to evaluate the potential therapeutic effects of LBP on depressive mice induced by reserpine, as well as the relevant mechanisms. The antidepressant effect of LBP was investigated by open field test (OFT), forced swimming test (FST), tail suspension test (TST), and antagonism of reserpine hypothermia and ptosis in mice. In addition, we examined the oxidative status and antioxidation power of striatum in both control and depressive mice with or without LBP treatment. To explore the mechanism of LBP on regulating antioxidants in the depressive mice, we detected the expression level of Bcl-2 and poly (ADP ribose) polymerase (PARP) in striatum of mice by western blotting. The results showed that administration with LBP for 4 consecutive weeks significantly increased locomotor activity, reduced the duration of immobility, and antagonized hypothermia and ptosis in mice induced by reserpine. Also, LBP treatment was able to reduce the lipid peroxidation (LPO) production, and enhance the antioxidation effect of the striatum in depressive mice. Furthermore, LBP inhibited the decreased extent of the apoptotic suppressors, Bcl-2 and PARP, which were markedly decreased after treatment with reserpine. The above results indicated that LBP possess antidepressant activities, probably via its powerful antioxidative properties and then decreased the apoptosis of striatum neuron.


greenmedinfo--2020-08-07--The treatment of Goji berry improves the neuroplasticity of the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus in

The treatment of Goji berry improves the neuroplasticity of the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus in aged rats.

The main characteristic of brain aging is an exacerbated inflammatory and oxidative response that affects dendritic morphology and the function of the neurons of the prefrontal cortex ( PFC ) and the hippocampus .
This consequently causes memory loss .
Recently , the use of the Goji berry ( Lycium barbarum ) as an antioxidant extract has provided neuroprotection and neuroplasticity , however , its therapeutic potential has not been demonstrated in aging conditions .
The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of Goji administration on memory recognition , as well as the changes in the dendritic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ neurons in old rats .
Goji ( 3 g/kg ) was administrated for 60 days in 18-month-old rats .
After the treatment , recognition memory was evaluated using the new object recognition task ( NORt ) .
The changes in the neuron morphology of the PFC and hippocampus pyramidal neurons in old rats were evaluated by Golgi-cox stain and immunoreactivity for synaptophysin , glial fibrillary acidic protein ( GFAP ) , caspase-3 , 3-nitrotyrosine ( 3-NT ) and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 ( Nrf2 ) .
The rats treated with Goji @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the PFC and hippocampus neurons , a greater immunoreactivity to synaptophysin and a decrease in reactive astrogliosis and also in caspase-3 , in 3-NT and in Nrf2 in these brain regions was also observed .
Goji administration promotes the plasticity processes in the PFC and in the hippocampus of old rats , critical structures in the brain aging process .

The main characteristic of brain aging is an exacerbated inflammatory and oxidative response that affects dendritic morphology and the function of the neurons of the prefrontal cortex (PFC) and the hippocampus. This consequently causes memory loss. Recently, the use of the Goji berry (Lycium barbarum) as an antioxidant extract has provided neuroprotection and neuroplasticity, however, its therapeutic potential has not been demonstrated in aging conditions. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of Goji administration on memory recognition, as well as the changes in the dendritic morphology of the PFC and Hippocampus pyramidal neurons in old rats. Goji (3 g/kg) was administrated for 60 days in 18-month-old rats. After the treatment, recognition memory was evaluated using the new object recognition task (NORt). The changes in the neuron morphology of the PFC and hippocampus pyramidal neurons in old rats were evaluated by Golgi-cox stain and immunoreactivity for synaptophysin, glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), caspase-3, 3-nitrotyrosine (3-NT) and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2). The rats treated with Goji showed a significant increase in dendritic morphology in the PFC and hippocampus neurons, a greater immunoreactivity to synaptophysin and a decrease in reactive astrogliosis and also in caspase-3, in 3-NT and in Nrf2 in these brain regions was also observed. Goji administration promotes the plasticity processes in the PFC and in the hippocampus of old rats, critical structures in the brain aging process.


greenmedinfo--2020-08-07--Lycium barbarum polysaccharide has potential for preventing male infertility caused by obesity.

Background : The incidence of obesity-associated decline in male fertility has increased over the years.polysaccharide ( LBP ) , a natural plant polysaccharide extracted from the Chinese herbhas shown promising therapeutic effects in overcoming the same .
Aim : This study aimed to investigate the protective effect of LBP on the testes of obese mice .
Methods : Following administration of LBP to high-fat diet-induced obese mice for 35 days , serum , sperm , and testis samples were obtained for subsequent experiments .
Biochemical analysis and sex hormone content determination were performed to observe changes in glycolipid metabolism and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ blood .
Hematoxylin and eosin staining were carried out to assess the pathological changes in the testicular tissue .
Oxidative stress levels were detected using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and expression levels of endoplasmic reticulum stress markers were determined using western blot in the testicular tissue .
Results : Our results suggested that LBP reduced glucose levels and insulin resistance , increased testosterone levels and insulin sensitivity , and decreased testicular oxidative stress and pathological damage in obese mice .
In addition , LBP down-regulated the expression of p-eIF2α , GRP78 , and CHOP @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Conclusion : Our results show that LBP is a potential novel drug for preventing male infertility caused by obesity .

Background: The incidence of obesity-associated decline in male fertility has increased over the years.polysaccharide (LBP), a natural plant polysaccharide extracted from the Chinese herbhas shown promising therapeutic effects in overcoming the same.
Aim: This study aimed to investigate the protective effect of LBP on the testes of obese mice.
Methods: Following administration of LBP to high-fat diet-induced obese mice for 35 days, serum, sperm, and testis samples were obtained for subsequent experiments. Biochemical analysis and sex hormone content determination were performed to observe changes in glycolipid metabolism and testosterone levels, respectively, in the blood. Hematoxylin and eosin staining were carried out to assess the pathological changes in the testicular tissue. Oxidative stress levels were detected using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and expression levels of endoplasmic reticulum stress markers were determined using western blot in the testicular tissue.
Results: Our results suggested that LBP reduced glucose levels and insulin resistance, increased testosterone levels and insulin sensitivity, and decreased testicular oxidative stress and pathological damage in obese mice. In addition, LBP down-regulated the expression of p-eIF2α, GRP78, and CHOP in the testicular tissues of obese mice.
Conclusion: Our results show that LBP is a potential novel drug for preventing male infertility caused by obesity.


greenmedinfo--2020-08-07--Whey protein, omega-3 fatty acids and polyphenols with electrical muscle stimulation increases muscl

Whey protein, omega-3 fatty acids and polyphenols with electrical muscle stimulation increases muscle strength in elderly adults with limited mobility.

Age-related sarcopenia is a progressive and generalized skeletal muscle disorder associated with adverse outcomes .
Herein , we evaluate the effects of a combination of electrical muscle stimulation ( EMS ) and a whey-based nutritional supplement ( with or without polyphenols and fish oil-derived omega-3 fatty acids ) on muscle function and size .
Free-living elderly participants with mobility limitations were included in this study .
They received 2 sessions of EMS per week and were randomly assigned to ingest an isocaloric beverage and capsules for 12 weeks : ( 1 ) carbohydrate + placebo capsules ( CHO , = @ @ @ @ @ @ @ protein isolate + placebo capsules ( WPI , = 15 ) and ( 3 ) whey protein isolate + bioactives ( BIO ) capsules containing omega-3 fatty acids , rutin , and curcumin ( WPI + BIO , = 10 ) .
The change in knee extension strength was significantly improved by 13 % in the WPI + BIO group versus CHO on top of EMS , while WPI alone did not provide a significant benefit over CHO .
On top of this , there was the largest improvement in gait speed ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ EMS and this specific nutritional intervention could be considered as a new approach for the prevention of sarcopenia but more work is needed before this approach should be recommended .
This trial was registered at the Japanese University Hospital Medical Information Network ( UMIN ) clinical trial registry ( UMIN000008382 ) .

Age-related sarcopenia is a progressive and generalized skeletal muscle disorder associated with adverse outcomes. Herein, we evaluate the effects of a combination of electrical muscle stimulation (EMS) and a whey-based nutritional supplement (with or without polyphenols and fish oil-derived omega-3 fatty acids) on muscle function and size. Free-living elderly participants with mobility limitations were included in this study. They received 2 sessions of EMS per week and were randomly assigned to ingest an isocaloric beverage and capsules for 12 weeks: (1) carbohydrate + placebo capsules (CHO,= 12), (2) whey protein isolate + placebo capsules (WPI,= 15) and (3) whey protein isolate + bioactives (BIO) capsules containing omega-3 fatty acids, rutin, and curcumin (WPI + BIO,= 10). The change in knee extension strength was significantly improved by 13% in the WPI + BIO group versus CHO on top of EMS, while WPI alone did not provide a significant benefit over CHO. On top of this, there was the largest improvement in gait speed (8%). The combination of EMS and this specific nutritional intervention could be considered as a new approach for the prevention of sarcopenia but more work is needed before this approach should be recommended. This trial was registered at the Japanese University Hospital Medical Information Network (UMIN) clinical trial registry (UMIN000008382).


greenmedinfo--2020-08-07--Regulation of tartary buckwheat-resistant starch on intestinal microflora in mice fed with high-fat

Regulation of tartary buckwheat-resistant starch on intestinal microflora in mice fed with high-fat diet.

Resistant starch ( RS ) is closely related to the composition of intestinal flora .
Based on many studies on @ @ @ @ @ and short-chain fatty acids ( SCFAs ) , it is possible that RS can improve @ @ @ @ @ host .
Therefore , we speculated that tartary buckwheat-resistant starch ( TBRS ) can also @ @ @ @ @ caused by high-fat diet .
We randomly divided 36 SPF C57BL/6J mice into low-fat diet @ @ @ @ @ ) , high-fat diet supplemented with TBRS ( HF-BRS ) , and high-fat diet supplemented @ @ @ @ @ ) .
We analyzed the diversity and richness of gut microbiota based on PCR and @ @ @ @ @ In community abundance , the HF-BRS group was significantly higher than the other three groups @

Resistant starch (RS) is closely related to the composition of intestinal flora. Based on many studies on the physiological functions of probiotics and short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), it is possible that RS can improve the intestinal health of the host. Therefore, we speculated that tartary buckwheat-resistant starch (TBRS) can also regulate the intestinal flora disorder caused by high-fat diet. We randomly divided 36 SPF C57BL/6J mice into low-fat diet, high-fat diet (HF-CS), high-fat diet supplemented with TBRS (HF-BRS), and high-fat diet supplemented with corn-resistant starch (HF-CRS). We analyzed the diversity and richness of gut microbiota based on PCR and Illumina high-throughput sequencing technology. In community abundance, the HF-BRS group was significantly higher than the other three groups ( < .05). TBRS improved the gut microbiota dysbiosis, including decreasing the-to-ratios (F/B) and contributing to the growth ofandas well significantly inhibiting the growth of,, and. We also analyzed the production of SCFAs by GC-MS, and the concentration of total SCFAs increased in the HF-CS group. However, TBRS significantly increased the production of SCFAs, especially the propionate concentration compared with the HF-CRS group ( < .05). These results elucidated that TBRS has the potential to improve intestinal health by altering the structure of gut microbiota and increasing the production of SCFAs. Our findings have important implications for TBRS as functional food ingredient to manipulate intestinal microflora.


greenmedinfo--2020-08-07--Lactobacillus plantarum PS128 supplementation was associated with an improvement on endurance runnin

Lactobacillus plantarum PS128 supplementation was associated with an improvement on endurance running performance.

A triathlon is an extremely high-intensity exercise and a challenge for physiological adaptation .
A triathlete 's microbiome might be modulated by diet , age , medical treatments , lifestyle , and exercise , thereby maintaining aerobiosis and optimum health and performance .
Probiotics , prebiotics , and synbiotics have been reported to have health-promoting activities ( e.g.
, immunoregulation and cancer prevention ) .
However , few studies have addressed how probiotics affect the microbiota of athletes and how this translates into functional activities .
In our previous study , we found thatPS128 could ameliorate inflammation and oxidative stress @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , here we investigate how the microbiota of triathletes are altered byPS128 supplementation , not only for exercise performance but also for possible physiological adaptation .
The triathletes were assigned to two groups : an128 supplement group ( LG , 3× 10colony-forming units ( CFU ) /day ) and a placebo group ( PG ) .
Both groups continued with their regular exercise training for the next 4 weeks .
The endurance performance , body composition , biochemistries , blood cells , microbiota , and associated metabolites were further investigated .
PS128 significantly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ about 130 % as compared to the PG group , but there was no significant difference in maximal oxygen consumption ( VOmax ) and composition between groups .
The PS128 supplementation ( LG ) modulated the athlete 's microbiota with both significant decreases ( , , , , , , , and ) and increases ( , , , and ) , and the LG showed lower diversity when compared to the PG .
Also , the short-chain fatty acids ( SCFAs ; acetate , propionate , and butyrate ) of the LG @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which might be a result of a modulation of the associated microbiota .
In conclusion , PS128 supplementation was associated with an improvement on endurance running performance through microbiota modulation and related metabolites , but not in maximal oxygen uptake .

A triathlon is an extremely high-intensity exercise and a challenge for physiological adaptation. A triathlete's microbiome might be modulated by diet, age, medical treatments, lifestyle, and exercise, thereby maintaining aerobiosis and optimum health and performance. Probiotics, prebiotics, and synbiotics have been reported to have health-promoting activities (e.g., immunoregulation and cancer prevention). However, few studies have addressed how probiotics affect the microbiota of athletes and how this translates into functional activities. In our previous study, we found thatPS128 could ameliorate inflammation and oxidative stress, with improved exercise performance. Thus, here we investigate how the microbiota of triathletes are altered byPS128 supplementation, not only for exercise performance but also for possible physiological adaptation. The triathletes were assigned to two groups: an128 supplement group (LG, 3× 10colony-forming units (CFU)/day) and a placebo group (PG). Both groups continued with their regular exercise training for the next 4 weeks. The endurance performance, body composition, biochemistries, blood cells, microbiota, and associated metabolites were further investigated. PS128 significantly increased the athletes' endurance, by about 130% as compared to the PG group, but there was no significant difference in maximal oxygen consumption (VOmax) and composition between groups. The PS128 supplementation (LG) modulated the athlete's microbiota with both significant decreases (,,,,,,, and) and increases (,,, and), and the LG showed lower diversity when compared to the PG. Also, the short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs; acetate, propionate, and butyrate) of the LG were significantly higher than the PG, which might be a result of a modulation of the associated microbiota. In conclusion, PS128 supplementation was associated with an improvement on endurance running performance through microbiota modulation and related metabolites, but not in maximal oxygen uptake.


greenmedinfo--2020-08-08--Berberine ameliorates subarachnoid hemorrhage injury.

Excessive cerebral inflammation plays a key role in early brain injury ( EBI ) after subarachnoid hemorrhage ( SAH ) @ @ @ @ @ alkaloid isolated from Chinese herb Coptis chinensis , possesses anti-inflammatory , and neuroprotective effects .
@ @ @ @ @ effects of berberine against SAH-induced inflammatory response and the subsequent brain injury .
Our data @ @ @ @ @ inhibited microglia activation and proinflammatory cytokines release .
Concomitant with suppressed cerebral inflammation , berberine @ @ @ @ @ as demonstrated by improved neurological behavior , reduced brain edema , and decreased neural apoptosis @ @ @ @ @ inhibited high mobile group box 1 ( HMGB1 ) /nuclear factor-κB ( Nf-κB ) -dependent @ @ @ @ @ ( SIRT1 ) expression after SAH .
Treatment with ex527 , a selective SIRT1 inhibitor @ @ @ @ @ and inhibitory effects on HMGB1/Nf-κB activation .
In addition , ex527 pretreatment abated the anti-inflammatory @ @ @ @ @ on SAH .
Taken together , these findings suggest that berberine provides beneficial effects against @ @ @ @ @ HMGB1/Nf-κB pathway , which may be modulated by SIRT1 activation .

Excessive cerebral inflammation plays a key role in early brain injury (EBI) after subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). Berberine, an isoquinoline alkaloid isolated from Chinese herb Coptis chinensis, possesses anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective effects. Here we evaluated the beneficial effects of berberine against SAH-induced inflammatory response and the subsequent brain injury. Our data showed that berberine treatment significantly inhibited microglia activation and proinflammatory cytokines release. Concomitant with suppressed cerebral inflammation, berberine mitigated the subsequent brain injury as demonstrated by improved neurological behavior, reduced brain edema, and decreased neural apoptosis. Moreover, berberine significantly inhibited high mobile group box 1 (HMGB1)/nuclear factor-κB (Nf-κB)-dependent pathway and enhanced sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) expression after SAH. Treatment with ex527, a selective SIRT1 inhibitor, reversed berberine-induced SIRT1 activation and inhibitory effects on HMGB1/Nf-κB activation. In addition, ex527 pretreatment abated the anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects of berberine on SAH. Taken together, these findings suggest that berberine provides beneficial effects against SAH-triggered cerebral inflammation by inhibiting HMGB1/Nf-κB pathway, which may be modulated by SIRT1 activation.


greenmedinfo--2020-08-08--NAF-1 inhibition by resveratrol suppresses cancer stem cell-Like properties and the invasion of panc

NAF-1 inhibition by resveratrol suppresses cancer stem cell-Like properties and the invasion of pancreatic cancer.

Resveratrol is a natural polyphenolic compound with multiple biological effects , .
, proliferation inhibition , anti-oxidation , and neuroprotection @ @ @ @ @ have shown that resveratrol inhibits tumor growth and migration , as well as epithelial-mesenchymal transition @ @ @ @ @ , its molecular mechanisms in tumor progression are not fully understood .
Nutrient-deprivation autophagy factor-1 @ @ @ @ @ found in the endoplasmic reticulum and mitochondrial outer membrane .
It is an important genetic @ @ @ @ @ and autophagy .
The molecular mechanism of NAF-1 in pancreatic cancer is currently unclear .
@ @ @ @ @ NAF-1 is expressed in pancreatic cancer tissue and correlated with the progression of pancreatic cancer @ @ @ @ @ that NAF-1 inhibition significantly inhibits the stem cell characteristics and the invasion and migration abilities @ @ @ @ @ In a subcutaneous xenograft model of pancreatic cancer in nude mice , resveratrol inhibited the @ @ @ @ @ inhibiting tumor growth .
Taken together , resveratrol could be an effective anti-tumor drug , @ @ @ @ @ rational therapeutic target .

Resveratrol is a natural polyphenolic compound with multiple biological effects,., proliferation inhibition, anti-oxidation, and neuroprotection. Besides that, studies have shown that resveratrol inhibits tumor growth and migration, as well as epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). However, its molecular mechanisms in tumor progression are not fully understood. Nutrient-deprivation autophagy factor-1 (NAF-1) is mainly found in the endoplasmic reticulum and mitochondrial outer membrane. It is an important genetic locus for regulating oxidative stress and autophagy. The molecular mechanism of NAF-1 in pancreatic cancer is currently unclear. The current study found that NAF-1 is expressed in pancreatic cancer tissue and correlated with the progression of pancreatic cancer. Furthermore, we found that NAF-1 inhibition significantly inhibits the stem cell characteristics and the invasion and migration abilities of pancreatic cancer cells. In a subcutaneous xenograft model of pancreatic cancer in nude mice, resveratrol inhibited the expression of NAF-1, thereby inhibiting tumor growth. Taken together, resveratrol could be an effective anti-tumor drug, and NAF-1 may be a rational therapeutic target.


greenmedinfo--2020-08-08--Zinc could improve cyclophosphamide-induced toxicity of the reproductive system in male mice.

Treatment with anticancer drugs such as cyclophosphamide can harm the male reproductive system .
Vitamin C and zinc are micronutrients with antioxidant activity and are the essential components of semen .
Therefore , this study aimed to evaluate whether cyclophosphamide-exposed mice can recover from fertility with vitamin C and zinc therapy .
In this experimental study , fifty male mice were divided into five groups .
Groups 1-4 received cyclophosphamide ( 100 mg/kg , once a week for eight weeks ) .
Also , group 2 received zinc ( 200 mg/kg ) , group 3 received vitamin C ( 300 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and vitamin C ( 200 mg/kg and 300 mg/kg , respectively ) , five times per week for eight weeks , and group 5 received normal saline once a week and water five days a week for eight weeks .
The data collected were statistically analyzed using SPSS 22 .
Results showed a significant increase in mount latency and a significant decrease in the number of sperms in the cyclophosphamide group compared to the control group .
However , mount latency has been significantly decreased in mice treated with cyclophosphamide plus zinc compared @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also showed that the sperm count in the group that received cyclophosphamide and zinc had been increased compared to the cyclophosphamide group ; the other treatments have decreased mount latency and increased the sperm count compared to the group treated with cyclophosphamide but not significantly .
The Tubule Differentiation Index showed an increase in the cyclophosphamide-Zinc-Vitamin C group in comparison with the cyclophosphamide group .
The current study showed that zinc could improve cyclophosphamide-induced toxicity of the reproductive system in male mice .

Treatment with anticancer drugs such as cyclophosphamide can harm the male reproductive system. Vitamin C and zinc are micronutrients with antioxidant activity and are the essential components of semen. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate whether cyclophosphamide-exposed mice can recover from fertility with vitamin C and zinc therapy. In this experimental study, fifty male mice were divided into five groups. Groups 1-4 received cyclophosphamide (100 mg/kg, once a week for eight weeks). Also, group 2 received zinc (200 mg/kg), group 3 received vitamin C (300 mg/kg), group 4 received zinc and vitamin C (200 mg/kg and 300 mg/kg, respectively), five times per week for eight weeks, and group 5 received normal saline once a week and water five days a week for eight weeks. The data collected were statistically analyzed using SPSS 22. Results showed a significant increase in mount latency and a significant decrease in the number of sperms in the cyclophosphamide group compared to the control group. However, mount latency has been significantly decreased in mice treated with cyclophosphamide plus zinc compared to the cyclophosphamide group. The study also showed that the sperm count in the group that received cyclophosphamide and zinc had been increased compared to the cyclophosphamide group; the other treatments have decreased mount latency and increased the sperm count compared to the group treated with cyclophosphamide but not significantly. The Tubule Differentiation Index showed an increase in the cyclophosphamide-Zinc-Vitamin C group in comparison with the cyclophosphamide group. The current study showed that zinc could improve cyclophosphamide-induced toxicity of the reproductive system in male mice.