greenmedinfo--2020-10-01--Geraniol protects against cyclophosphamide-induced hepatotoxicity.

Cyclophosphamide ( CP ) is one of the famous anti-cancer drugs .
However , CP-induced hepatotoxicity is a dose-limiting side effect .
The present study aimed to investigate the potential protective effect of geraniol ( GOH ) , the main ingredient of Palmarosa oil and rose oil , against CP-induced hepatotoxicity in rats .
Results showed that CP provoked a marked elevation in serum levels of alanine aminotransferase , aspartate aminotransferase and alkaline phosphatase .
In addition , oxidative stress was significantly boosted in CP-treated rats as compared to control rats .
On the other hand , GOH ( 200 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ CP-evoked disturbances in the above-mentioned parameters .
Moreover , histopathological aberrations in CP-treated rats were significantly ameliorated in GOH-treated rats .
GOH markedly abrogated CP-induced inflammation via decreasing the protein expression of nuclear factor-kappa B , inducible nitric oxide synthase and cyclo-oxygenase 2 , as well as reducing the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines in CP-treated rats .
CP induced activation of MAPK ; p38 and JNK and diminished PPAR-γ protein expression .
GOH effectively reversed all these effects .
In conclusion , GOH is suggested to be a potential candidate for attenuation of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities , as well as , modulation of MAPK and PPAR-γ signaling pathways .

Cyclophosphamide (CP) is one of the famous anti-cancer drugs. However, CP-induced hepatotoxicity is a dose-limiting side effect. The present study aimed to investigate the potential protective effect of geraniol (GOH), the main ingredient of Palmarosa oil and rose oil, against CP-induced hepatotoxicity in rats. Results showed that CP provoked a marked elevation in serum levels of alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase and alkaline phosphatase. In addition, oxidative stress was significantly boosted in CP-treated rats as compared to control rats. On the other hand, GOH (200 mg/kg, p.o.) administration attenuated CP-evoked disturbances in the above-mentioned parameters. Moreover, histopathological aberrations in CP-treated rats were significantly ameliorated in GOH-treated rats. GOH markedly abrogated CP-induced inflammation via decreasing the protein expression of nuclear factor-kappa B, inducible nitric oxide synthase and cyclo-oxygenase 2, as well as reducing the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines in CP-treated rats. CP induced activation of MAPK; p38 and JNK and diminished PPAR-γ protein expression. GOH effectively reversed all these effects. In conclusion, GOH is suggested to be a potential candidate for attenuation of CP-induced hepatotoxicity. This effect is attributed to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, as well as, modulation of MAPK and PPAR-γ signaling pathways.


greenmedinfo--2020-10-01--Geraniol protects against oxidative stress-induced apoptosis in hepatic ischemia-reperfusion injury.

Geraniol ( GOH ) is a natural essential oil that possesses antioxidant , anti-inflammatory , and antiapoptotic properties by various signaling pathways .
Liver ischemia-reperfusion injury ( IRI ) is a serious event that triggers liver dysfunction or even failure .
Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 ( Nrf2 ) , a transcriptional factor , maintains cellular defense mechanism through antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties .
To detect GOH effect against liver IRI through the activation of the Nrf2/HO-1 antioxidant pathway , five groups of rats were randomized to normal , sham , IR , GOH , and GOH/IR .
Blood @ @ @ @ @ @ @ measure various biochemical parameters related to liver function , and oxidative stress as well as inflammatory and apoptotic indicators besides liver tissue histopathology was evaluated by light microscopy .
GOH induces activation of Nrf2 along with the upregulation of HO-1 expression .
Also , the antioxidant activity of GOH was shown by the elevation of total antioxidant capacity and GSH levels , together with normalizing malondialdehyde .
Regarding the anti-inflammatory effect of GOH , it suppresses the levels of TNF-α , iNOS , and COX-2 .
Additionally , the antiapoptotic effect of GOH @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were reduced in liver tissue .
GOH is a promising hepatoprotective agent in liver IRI through the activation of Nrf2/HO-1 antioxidant pathway .

Geraniol (GOH) is a natural essential oil that possesses antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiapoptotic properties by various signaling pathways. Liver ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI) is a serious event that triggers liver dysfunction or even failure. Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), a transcriptional factor, maintains cellular defense mechanism through antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. To detect GOH effect against liver IRI through the activation of the Nrf2/HO-1 antioxidant pathway, five groups of rats were randomized to normal, sham, IR, GOH, and GOH/IR. Blood samples and liver tissues were collected to measure various biochemical parameters related to liver function, and oxidative stress as well as inflammatory and apoptotic indicators besides liver tissue histopathology was evaluated by light microscopy. GOH induces activation of Nrf2 along with the upregulation of HO-1 expression. Also, the antioxidant activity of GOH was shown by the elevation of total antioxidant capacity and GSH levels, together with normalizing malondialdehyde. Regarding the anti-inflammatory effect of GOH, it suppresses the levels of TNF-α, iNOS, and COX-2. Additionally, the antiapoptotic effect of GOH, Bax, and caspase-3, 9 were reduced in liver tissue. GOH is a promising hepatoprotective agent in liver IRI through the activation of Nrf2/HO-1 antioxidant pathway.


greenmedinfo--2020-10-01--Chebulanin exerts its anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic effects via inhibiting NF-κB and MAPK act

Chebulanin exerts its anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic effects via inhibiting NF-κB and MAPK activation.

Rheumatoid arthritis ( RA ) is a chronic systemic autoimmune disease characterized by synovial inflammation and progressive joint destruction .
Chebulanin is a natural polyphenol acid isolated from the traditional Tibetan medicine Terminalia chebula Retz that has previously been reported to possess anti-inflammatory properties .
The present study aimed to investigate the anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic effects of chebulanin and explore its underlying mechanisms in vivo and in vitro using a collagen-induced arthritis ( CIA ) mouse model and lipopolysaccharide ( LPS ) stimulated RAW264.7 cell inflammation model .
Arthritis severity scores were assessed twice weekly ; the levels of cytokines @ @ @ @ @ @ @ factor-α ( TNF-α ) in serum were detected using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kits ; histopathological assessment was performed using micro computed tomography and hematoxylin and eosin staining .
Activation of nuclear factor kappa B ( NF-κB ) and mitogen-activated protein kinase ( MAPK ) signaling pathwayswere assessed using western blotting .
The inhibition of translocation of cytosolic p38 and p65 into the nucleus was observed using immunofluorescence staining and western blotting in vitro .
Chebulanin significantly suppressed the progression and development of RA in CIA mice by decreasing the arthritis severity scores , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and reducing the levels of IL-6 and TNF-α significantly ( p

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic systemic autoimmune disease characterized by synovial inflammation and progressive joint destruction. Chebulanin is a natural polyphenol acid isolated from the traditional Tibetan medicine Terminalia chebula Retz that has previously been reported to possess anti-inflammatory properties. The present study aimed to investigate the anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic effects of chebulanin and explore its underlying mechanisms in vivo and in vitro using a collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) mouse model and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimulated RAW264.7 cell inflammation model. Arthritis severity scores were assessed twice weekly; the levels of cytokines interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) in serum were detected using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kits; histopathological assessment was performed using micro computed tomography and hematoxylin and eosin staining. Activation of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathwayswere assessed using western blotting. The inhibition of translocation of cytosolic p38 and p65 into the nucleus was observed using immunofluorescence staining and western blotting in vitro. Chebulanin significantly suppressed the progression and development of RA in CIA mice by decreasing the arthritis severity scores, attenuating paw swelling and joint destruction, and reducing the levels of IL-6 and TNF-α significantly (p < 0.05). Furthermore, chebulanin reduced the levels of excised phosphorylated (p)-p38, phosphorylated-c-JUN N-terminal kinase (p-JNK), p-p65 and phosphorylated NF-κB inhibitor alpha (p-IκBα) in CIA mice, but did not affect the level of phosphorylated extracellular-signal-regulated kinase (ERK). In addition, chebulanin could inhibit the nuclear translocation of p38 and p65 in LPS-stimulated macrophages in dose-dependent manner. In conclusion, this study demonstrated that chebulanin exerts anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic effects by inhibiting the activation of NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathways.


greenmedinfo--2020-10-01--Yarrow supercritical extract ameliorates the metabolic stress in a model of obesity induced by high-

Yarrow supercritical extract ameliorates the metabolic stress in a model of obesity induced by high-fat diet.

Nowadays , obesity and its associated metabolic disorders , including diabetes , metabolic syndrome , cardiovascular disease , or cancer , continue to be a health epidemic in westernized societies , and there is an increased necessity to explore anti-obesity therapies including pharmaceutical and nutraceutical compounds .
Considerable attention has been placed on the identification of bioactive compounds from natural sources to manage the metabolic stress associated with obesity .
In a previous work , we have demonstrated that a COsupercritical fluid extract from yarrow ( Yarrow SFE ) , downregulates the expression of the lipogenic master regulatorand its downstream @ @ @ @ @ @ @ obesity and diabetes are strongly considered high-risk factors for cancer development , herein , we aimed to investigate the potential therapeutic role of Yarrow SFE in the metabolic stress induced after a high-fat diet in mice .
For this purpose , 32 C57BL/6 mice were distributed in four groups according to their diets : standard diet ( SD ) ; SD supplemented with Yarrow SFE ( SD + Yarrow ) ; high-fat diet ( HFD ) ; and HFD supplemented with Yarrow SFE ( HFD + Yarrow ) .
Fasting glycemia , insulin @ @ @ @ @ @ @ resistance ( HOMA-IR ) , lipid profile , gene expression , and lipid content of liver and adipose tissues were analyzed after three months of treatment .
Results indicate improved fasting glucose levels in plasma , enhanced insulin sensitivity , and diminished hypercholesterolemia in the HFD + Yarrow group compared to the HFD group .
Mechanistically , Yarrow SFE protects liver from steatosis after the HFD challenge by augmenting the adipose tissue buffering capacity of the circulating plasma glucose .

Nowadays, obesity and its associated metabolic disorders, including diabetes, metabolic syndrome, cardiovascular disease, or cancer, continue to be a health epidemic in westernized societies, and there is an increased necessity to explore anti-obesity therapies including pharmaceutical and nutraceutical compounds. Considerable attention has been placed on the identification of bioactive compounds from natural sources to manage the metabolic stress associated with obesity. In a previous work, we have demonstrated that a COsupercritical fluid extract from yarrow (Yarrow SFE), downregulates the expression of the lipogenic master regulatorand its downstream molecular targetsandin a tumoral context. Since obesity and diabetes are strongly considered high-risk factors for cancer development, herein, we aimed to investigate the potential therapeutic role of Yarrow SFE in the metabolic stress induced after a high-fat diet in mice. For this purpose, 32 C57BL/6 mice were distributed in four groups according to their diets: standard diet (SD); SD supplemented with Yarrow SFE (SD + Yarrow); high-fat diet (HFD); and HFD supplemented with Yarrow SFE (HFD + Yarrow). Fasting glycemia, insulin levels, homeostasis model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), lipid profile, gene expression, and lipid content of liver and adipose tissues were analyzed after three months of treatment. Results indicate improved fasting glucose levels in plasma, enhanced insulin sensitivity, and diminished hypercholesterolemia in the HFD + Yarrow group compared to the HFD group. Mechanistically, Yarrow SFE protects liver from steatosis after the HFD challenge by augmenting the adipose tissue buffering capacity of the circulating plasma glucose.


greenmedinfo--2020-10-01--These results suggest that Achillea millefolium could be a useful candidate for atopic dermatitis tr

These results suggest that Achillea millefolium could be a useful candidate for atopic dermatitis treatment.

L. ( AM ) is an aromatic herb with a variety of pharmacological properties , such as anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic activities .
However , AM 's effects on atopic dermatitis ( AD ) have not been investigated .
This study evaluates the anti-AD activity of 50 % ethanol-extracted AM in murine macrophage Raw 264.7 cells , in tumor necrosis factor-alpha/interferon-gamma ( TNF- [ Formula : see text ] /IFN- [ Formula : see text ] ) -stimulated human immortal keratinocyte HaCaT cells , and in Biostir-AD-treated NC/Nga miceThe results showed that AM significantly downregulated expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines , such @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( IL ) -6 in lipopolysaccharide ( LPS ) -treated Raw 264.7 cells .
The mRNA expressions of INOS , COX-2 , and IL-6 decreased by 76.1 % , 69.3 % , and 31.8 % , respectively .
Overexpression of chemokines , such as activation-regulated chemokine and macrophage-derived chemokine , regulated on activation of normal T-cell expressed and secreted , and IL-8 was inhibited by 70.01 % , 52.91 % , 73.53 % , and 18.93 % , respectively , in TNF- [ Formula : see text ] /IFN- [ Formula : see @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the mitogen-activated protein kinase , I [ Formula : see text ] B [ Formula : see text ] , and the signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 signaling pathways .
AD-like symptoms , such as elevated serum immunoglobin E levels , epidermal thickening , high dermatitis severity score , transepidermal water loss , and reduced skin hydration , were relieved by the dietary administration of AM in Biostir-AD-treated NC/Nga mice .
In addition , filaggrin expression increased significantly in AM-treated groups .
These results suggest that AM could be a useful @ @ @ @ @

L. (AM) is an aromatic herb with a variety of pharmacological properties, such as anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic activities. However, AM's effects on atopic dermatitis (AD) have not been investigated. This study evaluates the anti-AD activity of 50% ethanol-extracted AM in murine macrophage Raw 264.7 cells, in tumor necrosis factor-alpha/interferon-gamma (TNF-[Formula: see text]/IFN-[Formula: see text])-stimulated human immortal keratinocyte HaCaT cells, and in Biostir-AD-treated NC/Nga miceThe results showed that AM significantly downregulated expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as INOS, COX-2, and interleukin (IL)-6 in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-treated Raw 264.7 cells. The mRNA expressions of INOS, COX-2, and IL-6 decreased by 76.1%, 69.3%, and 31.8%, respectively. Overexpression of chemokines, such as activation-regulated chemokine and macrophage-derived chemokine, regulated on activation of normal T-cell expressed and secreted, and IL-8 was inhibited by 70.01%, 52.91%, 73.53%, and 18.93%, respectively, in TNF-[Formula: see text]/IFN-[Formula: see text]-stimulated HaCaT cells by downregulating the mitogen-activated protein kinase, I[Formula: see text]B[Formula: see text], and the signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 signaling pathways. AD-like symptoms, such as elevated serum immunoglobin E levels, epidermal thickening, high dermatitis severity score, transepidermal water loss, and reduced skin hydration, were relieved by the dietary administration of AM in Biostir-AD-treated NC/Nga mice. In addition, filaggrin expression increased significantly in AM-treated groups. These results suggest that AM could be a useful candidate for AD treatment.


greenmedinfo--2020-10-01--Yarrow oil ameliorates ulcerative colitis in mice.

Background/Aims : Ulcerative colitis ( UC ) is a chronic inflammatory disorder with indefinite etiology ; however , environmental , genetic , immune factors and microbial agents could be implicated in its pathogenesis .
UC treatment is lifelong , therefore ; the potential side effects and cost of the therapy are significant .
Yarrow is a promising medicinal plant with the ability to treat many disorders , owing to its bioactive compounds especially the essential oil .
The main aim of this research was to investigate the therapeutic effect of the yarrow oil on colitis including the involved mechanism of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mice were divided into 3 groups ; control group , colitis model group , and oil-treated group .
Groups 2 and 3 received 5 % dextran sulfate sodium ( DSS ) in drinking water for 9 days , and concomitantly , only group 3 was given 100 mg/kg yarrow oil .
Mice were examined for their body weight , stool consistency and bleeding , and the disease activity indexes were calculated .
Results : Oral administration of yarrow oil markedly repressed the severity of UC via the reduction of the inflammatory signs and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ able to down-regulate nuclear factor kappa light chain enhancer of activated B cells ( NF-κB ) , up-regulate peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma ( PPAR-γ ) , and enhance transforming growth factor-β expression .
The oil normalized the tumor necrosis factor-α expression , restored the normal serum level of interleukin-10 ( IL-10 ) and reduced the serum level of IL-6 .
Conclusions : Yarrow oil mitigated UC symptoms and regulated the inflammatory cytokines secretion via regulation of NF-κB and PPAR-γ pathways in the mice model , however , this recommendation requires further investigations using @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the oil on humans .

Background/Aims: Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory disorder with indefinite etiology; however, environmental, genetic, immune factors and microbial agents could be implicated in its pathogenesis. UC treatment is lifelong, therefore; the potential side effects and cost of the therapy are significant. Yarrow is a promising medicinal plant with the ability to treat many disorders, owing to its bioactive compounds especially the essential oil. The main aim of this research was to investigate the therapeutic effect of the yarrow oil on colitis including the involved mechanism of action.
Methods: In 21-female C57BL/6 mice were divided into 3 groups; control group, colitis model group, and oil-treated group. Groups 2 and 3 received 5% dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) in drinking water for 9 days, and concomitantly, only group 3 was given 100 mg/kg yarrow oil. Mice were examined for their body weight, stool consistency and bleeding, and the disease activity indexes were calculated.
Results: Oral administration of yarrow oil markedly repressed the severity of UC via the reduction of the inflammatory signs and restoring colon length. The oil was able to down-regulate nuclear factor kappa light chain enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB), up-regulate peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPAR-γ), and enhance transforming growth factor-β expression. The oil normalized the tumor necrosis factor-α expression, restored the normal serum level of interleukin-10 (IL-10) and reduced the serum level of IL-6.
Conclusions: Yarrow oil mitigated UC symptoms and regulated the inflammatory cytokines secretion via regulation of NF-κB and PPAR-γ pathways in the mice model, however, this recommendation requires further investigations using clinical studies to confirm the use of the oil on humans.


greenmedinfo--2020-10-01--Study results showed that vaginal cream containing A. millefolium could reduce the complaints of vul

INTRODUCTION : Vulvovaginal candidiasis is the second most common cause of vulvovaginal infections .
The aim of this study is @ @ @ @ @ vaginal cream of Achillea millefolium extract in women with vulvovaginal candidiasis in comparison with vaginal @ @ @ @ @ : This double-blind randomized clinical trial study was conducted on 80 women diagnosed with vulvovaginal @ @ @ @ @ test ; 40 women received vaginal cream clotrimazole 1 % and 40 received vaginal cream @ @ @ @ @ A. millefolium for 7 days .
Clinical and laboratory assessments were performed before and after @ @ @ @ @ concentration of the extract was evaluated with Broth micro-dilution procedure .
RESULTS : The Dermatology @ @ @ @ @ significant reduction in both groups after treatment , but it was significantly more reduced in @ @ @ @ @ AND CONCLUSION : Study results showed that vaginal cream containing A. millefolium could reduce the @ @ @ @ @ But , future studies with a larger sample size and different dosages are recommended to @ @ @ @ @ new treatment .

INTRODUCTION: Vulvovaginal candidiasis is the second most common cause of vulvovaginal infections. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of vaginal cream of Achillea millefolium extract in women with vulvovaginal candidiasis in comparison with vaginal clotrimazole.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: This double-blind randomized clinical trial study was conducted on 80 women diagnosed with vulvovaginal candidiasis clinically and by laboratory test; 40 women received vaginal cream clotrimazole 1 % and 40 received vaginal cream containing the aqueous extract of A. millefolium for 7 days. Clinical and laboratory assessments were performed before and after the intervention. Minimum inhibitory concentration of the extract was evaluated with Broth micro-dilution procedure.
RESULTS: The Dermatology life quality index score showed significant reduction in both groups after treatment, but it was significantly more reduced in control group (p < 0.05). Improvement in vulvar erythema was observed in both groups with no statistically difference (p = 0.1). Vaginal culture was negative in term of Candida in 28(77 %) patients of control group and in 18(53 %) patient of experimental group (p < 0.05). The Minimum inhibitory concentration of the extract was 37.5 mg/mL for the standard strain.
DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: Study results showed that vaginal cream containing A. millefolium could reduce the complaints of vulvovaginal candidiasis. But, future studies with a larger sample size and different dosages are recommended to assess the outcomes of this new treatment.


greenmedinfo--2020-10-01--The healing effects of St. John's Wort on experimental alkaline corrosive eosephageal and stomach bu

The healing effects of St. John's Wort on experimental alkaline corrosive eosephageal and stomach burns.

BACKGROUND : The most frequent etiologic cause is alkaline substances .
We investigated the protective effects of the plant St. John 's Wort ( Hypericum perforatum ) .
METHODS : We included 42 Wistar albino rats weighing between 200-300 grams and divided into six groups as Group 1 : Control , Group 2 : Burn+Saline ( BS ) , Group 3 : Burn+St .
John 's Wort ( BSJW ) , Group 4 : Burn+Plasebo ( BP ) , Group 5 : St. John 's Wort ( SJW ) , Group 6 : Placebo ( P ) .
After 15 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and liver tissue samples were derived by dissection for histopathologic and biochemical markers .
The cytotoxic effects of formulation on fibroblasts is evaluated in vitro on human dermoblast fibroblast line ( HDFa , Gibco Invitrogen cell culture , C-013-5C ) .
RESULTS : The weight of the rats increased in Group 1 , 3 , 4 , 6 , decreased in Group 2 and did not change in Group 5 .
In the BSJW group , submucosal collagen accumulation , muscularis mucosa damage , tunica muscularis damage and collagen accumulation in esophagus were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ than BS and placebo group .
In the stomach , mucosal damage , gastric gland dilatation , submucosal polymorphonuclear infiltration were similar to the control group and lesser than the BS group .
The lethal concentration of SJW was 2.58 gr/mL .
CONCLUSION : SJW substrate is effective in protecting the esophagus and stomach in mild to moderate alcali corrosive burns in the subacute period .
We should keep in mind the protective effects of STW substrate in alkaline corrosive burns of the gastrointestinal system .

BACKGROUND: The most frequent etiologic cause is alkaline substances. We investigated the protective effects of the plant St. John 's Wort (Hypericum perforatum).
METHODS: We included 42 Wistar albino rats weighing between 200-300 grams and divided into six groups as Group 1: Control, Group 2: Burn+Saline (BS), Group 3: Burn+St. John's Wort (BSJW), Group 4: Burn+Plasebo (BP), Group 5: St. John's Wort (SJW), Group 6: Placebo (P). After 15 days of treatment, esophagus, stomach and liver tissue samples were derived by dissection for histopathologic and biochemical markers. The cytotoxic effects of formulation on fibroblasts is evaluated in vitro on human dermoblast fibroblast line (HDFa, Gibco Invitrogen cell culture, C-013-5C).
RESULTS: The weight of the rats increased in Group 1, 3, 4, 6, decreased in Group 2 and did not change in Group 5. In the BSJW group, submucosal collagen accumulation, muscularis mucosa damage, tunica muscularis damage and collagen accumulation in esophagus were similar to the control group but lesser than BS and placebo group. In the stomach, mucosal damage, gastric gland dilatation, submucosal polymorphonuclear infiltration were similar to the control group and lesser than the BS group. The lethal concentration of SJW was 2.58 gr/mL.
CONCLUSION: SJW substrate is effective in protecting the esophagus and stomach in mild to moderate alcali corrosive burns in the subacute period. We should keep in mind the protective effects of STW substrate in alkaline corrosive burns of the gastrointestinal system.


greenmedinfo--2020-10-01--Geranium and lemon essential oils and their derivative compounds are valuable natural anti-viral age

Geranium and lemon essential oils and their derivative compounds are valuable natural anti-viral agents that may contribute to the prevention of the invasion of SARS-CoV-2/COVID-19.

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 ( SARS-CoV-2 ) , also known as coronavirus disease-2019 ( COVID-19 ) , is a pandemic disease that has been declared as modern history 's gravest health emergency worldwide .
Until now , no precise treatment modality has been developed .
The angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 ( ACE2 ) receptor , a host cell receptor , has been found to play a crucial role in virus cell entry ; therefore , ACE2 blockers can be a potential target for anti-viral intervention .
In this study , we evaluated the ACE2 inhibitory effects of 10 essential @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lemon oils displayed significant ACE2 inhibitory effects in epithelial cells .
In addition , immunoblotting and qPCR analysis also confirmed that geranium and lemon oils possess potent ACE2 inhibitory effects .
Furthermore , the gas chromatography-mass spectrometry ( GC-MS ) analysis displayed 22 compounds in geranium oil and 9 compounds in lemon oil .
Citronellol , geraniol , and neryl acetate were the major compounds of geranium oil and limonene that represented major compound of lemon oil .
Next , we found that treatment with citronellol and limonene significantly downregulated ACE2 expression in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ geranium and lemon essential oils and their derivative compounds are valuable natural anti-viral agents that may contribute to the prevention of the invasion of SARS-CoV-2/COVID-19 into the human body .

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), also known as coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19), is a pandemic disease that has been declared as modern history's gravest health emergency worldwide. Until now, no precise treatment modality has been developed. The angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor, a host cell receptor, has been found to play a crucial role in virus cell entry; therefore, ACE2 blockers can be a potential target for anti-viral intervention. In this study, we evaluated the ACE2 inhibitory effects of 10 essential oils. Among them, geranium and lemon oils displayed significant ACE2 inhibitory effects in epithelial cells. In addition, immunoblotting and qPCR analysis also confirmed that geranium and lemon oils possess potent ACE2 inhibitory effects. Furthermore, the gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis displayed 22 compounds in geranium oil and 9 compounds in lemon oil. Citronellol, geraniol, and neryl acetate were the major compounds of geranium oil and limonene that represented major compound of lemon oil. Next, we found that treatment with citronellol and limonene significantly downregulated ACE2 expression in epithelial cells. The results suggest that geranium and lemon essential oils and their derivative compounds are valuable natural anti-viral agents that may contribute to the prevention of the invasion of SARS-CoV-2/COVID-19 into the human body.


greenmedinfo--2020-10-01--Geraniol-mediated osteoarthritis improvement by down-regulating PI3K/Akt/NF-κB and MAPK signals.

Osteoarthritis ( OA ) is a degenerative disease that has received increasing attention among the elderly .
Its clinical manifestation is primarily long-term joint pain .
Evidence for the pharmacological effects of geraniol in various diseases is accumulating .
However , whether geraniol has a therapeutic effect against OA remains to be determined .
In this study , we discussed the anti-inflammatory effects of geraniol in IL-1β-induced chondrocytes and the anti-cartilage degradation effects in a mouse model of destabilization of the medial meniscus ( DMM ) .
In cell experiments , we found that the treatment of geraniol inhibited the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ COX-2 , iNOS , TNF-α and IL-6 by western blot , qRT-PCRand immunofluorescence staining .
Besides , geraniol inhibited the expression of MMP-9 and ADAMTS-5 , and reversed the degradation of aggrecan and type II collagen .
Mechanistically , we revealed that geraniol suppressed IL-1β-stimulated PI3K/Akt/NF-κB and MAPK activation .
Importantly , we have found in animal experiments that oral treatment of geraniol was beneficial in protecting articular cartilage from degradation .
Overall , these data indicated that geraniol may have the potential to be developed as an effective treatment for OA .

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative disease that has received increasing attention among the elderly. Its clinical manifestation is primarily long-term joint pain. Evidence for the pharmacological effects of geraniol in various diseases is accumulating. However, whether geraniol has a therapeutic effect against OA remains to be determined. In this study, we discussed the anti-inflammatory effects of geraniol in IL-1β-induced chondrocytes and the anti-cartilage degradation effects in a mouse model of destabilization of the medial meniscus (DMM). In cell experiments, we found that the treatment of geraniol inhibited the expression of IL-1β-induced PGE2, NO, COX-2, iNOS, TNF-α and IL-6 by western blot, qRT-PCRand immunofluorescence staining. Besides, geraniol inhibited the expression of MMP-9 and ADAMTS-5, and reversed the degradation of aggrecan and type II collagen. Mechanistically, we revealed that geraniol suppressed IL-1β-stimulated PI3K/Akt/NF-κB and MAPK activation. Importantly, we have found in animal experiments that oral treatment of geraniol was beneficial in protecting articular cartilage from degradation. Overall, these data indicated that geraniol may have the potential to be developed as an effective treatment for OA.


greenmedinfo--2020-10-01--Geraniol ameliorates diabetic nephropathy.

Deregulated activity of protein kinase B/mammalian target of rapamycin complex-1 ( Akt/mTORC1 ) incites crucial pathological characteristics of diabetic nephropathy .
The acyclic monoterpene geraniol has been recently reported to possess antidiabetic effects ; however , its potential renoprotective effect in diabetes has not yet been elucidated .
This study aimed to assess the possible modulatory effect of geraniol on the Akt/mTORC1 pathway in diabetes-induced nephropathy in rats compared to the standard antidiabetic drug gliclazide .
Geraniol and gliclazide was administered daily to diabetic rats for 6 weeksstarting on the 3rd-day post diabetes induction by streptozotocin ( STZ ) .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ serum creatinine ; blood urea nitrogen ) .
It exerted a remarkable antihyperglycemic effect that is comparable to that of gliclazide and suppressed the fibrotic marker , transforming growth factor-β .
Geraniol restored redox balance and inhibited lipid peroxidation by reducing nicotine amide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase and enhancing the antioxidant enzyme , superoxide dismutase .
These beneficial effects were associated with a robust downregulation of miRNA-21 and consequently , reversion of tumor suppressor protein phosphatase and tension homolog ( PTEN ) /Akt/mTORC1 cue and its downstream proteins required for mesangial cell proliferation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ study indicates that geraniol interfered with miRNA-21/ PTEN/AKT/mTORC1 pathway signaling that contributes largely to the progression of mesangial expansion and extracellular matrix deposition in diabetic nephropathy .

Deregulated activity of protein kinase B/mammalian target of rapamycin complex-1 (Akt/mTORC1) incites crucial pathological characteristics of diabetic nephropathy. The acyclic monoterpene geraniol has been recently reported to possess antidiabetic effects; however, its potential renoprotective effect in diabetes has not yet been elucidated. This study aimed to assess the possible modulatory effect of geraniol on the Akt/mTORC1 pathway in diabetes-induced nephropathy in rats compared to the standard antidiabetic drug gliclazide. Geraniol and gliclazide was administered daily to diabetic rats for 6 weeksstarting on the 3rd-day post diabetes induction by streptozotocin (STZ). Geraniol amended the deteriorated renal function (serum creatinine; blood urea nitrogen). It exerted a remarkable antihyperglycemic effect that is comparable to that of gliclazide and suppressed the fibrotic marker, transforming growth factor-β. Geraniol restored redox balance and inhibited lipid peroxidation by reducing nicotine amide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase and enhancing the antioxidant enzyme, superoxide dismutase. These beneficial effects were associated with a robust downregulation of miRNA-21 and consequently, reversion of tumor suppressor protein phosphatase and tension homolog (PTEN)/Akt/mTORC1 cue and its downstream proteins required for mesangial cell proliferation and matrix protein synthesis. The current study indicates that geraniol interfered with miRNA-21/ PTEN/AKT/mTORC1 pathway signaling that contributes largely to the progression of mesangial expansion and extracellular matrix deposition in diabetic nephropathy.


greenmedinfo--2020-10-01--This review discusses some of the most important uses of geraniol.

Geraniol is a monoterpenic alcohol with a pleasant rose-like aroma , known as an important ingredient in many essential oils @ @ @ @ @ as a fragrance compound in cosmetic and household products .
However , geraniol has a @ @ @ @ @ such as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties .
In addition , numerous in vitro and in @ @ @ @ @ activity of geraniol against prostate , bowel , liver , kidney and skin cancer .
@ @ @ @ @ increase the expression of proapoptotic proteins .
The synergy of this with other drugs may @ @ @ @ @ chemotherapeutic agents .
The antibacterial activity of this compound was also observed on respiratory pathogens @ @ @ @ @ .
This review discusses some of the most important uses of geraniol .

Geraniol is a monoterpenic alcohol with a pleasant rose-like aroma, known as an important ingredient in many essential oils, and is used commercially as a fragrance compound in cosmetic and household products. However, geraniol has a number of biological activities, such as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. In addition, numerous in vitro and in vivo studies have shown the activity of geraniol against prostate, bowel, liver, kidney and skin cancer. It can induce apoptosis and increase the expression of proapoptotic proteins. The synergy of this with other drugs may further increase the range of chemotherapeutic agents. The antibacterial activity of this compound was also observed on respiratory pathogens, skin and food-derived strains. This review discusses some of the most important uses of geraniol.


greenmedinfo--2020-10-01--Computational evaluation of major components from plant essential oils as potent inhibitors of SARS-

Computational evaluation of major components from plant essential oils as potent inhibitors of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein.

COVID-19 , caused by SARS-CoV-2 has recently emerged as a global pandemic .
Intense efforts are ongoing to find a @ @ @ @ @ control the disease across the globe .
Meanwhile , alternative therapies are also being explored @ @ @ @ @ Phytochemicals present in essential oils are promising candidates which have been known to possess wide @ @ @ @ @ In this study , major components of several essential oils which are known for their @ @ @ @ @ against the S1 receptor binding domain of the spike ( S ) glycoprotein , which @ @ @ @ @ novel antiviral drugs , to ascertain their inhibitory effects based on their binding affinities .
@ @ @ @ @ some monoterpenes , terpenoid phenols and phenyl propanoids such as anethole , cinnamaldehyde , carvacrol @ @ @ @ @ , L-4-terpineol , thymol and pulegone from essential oils extracted from plants belonging to families @ @ @ @ @ ,andare effective antiviral agents that have potential to inhibit the viral spikeprotein .

COVID-19, caused by SARS-CoV-2 has recently emerged as a global pandemic. Intense efforts are ongoing to find a vaccine or a drug to control the disease across the globe. Meanwhile, alternative therapies are also being explored to manage the disease. Phytochemicals present in essential oils are promising candidates which have been known to possess wide range of therapeutic activities. In this study, major components of several essential oils which are known for their antimicrobial properties have been docked against the S1 receptor binding domain of the spike (S) glycoprotein, which is the key target for novel antiviral drugs, to ascertain their inhibitory effects based on their binding affinities. It has been found that some monoterpenes, terpenoid phenols and phenyl propanoids such as anethole, cinnamaldehyde, carvacrol, geraniol, cinnamyl acetate, L-4-terpineol, thymol and pulegone from essential oils extracted from plants belonging to families such as,,,,andare effective antiviral agents that have potential to inhibit the viral spikeprotein.


greenmedinfo--2020-10-01--Chemical composition and immunomodulatory activity of Hypericum perforatum essential oils.

L. ( Hypericaceae ) extracts have been used for their therapeutic effects ; however , not much is known about the immunomodulatory activity of essential oils extracted from this plant .
We isolated essential oils from the flowers and leaves ofand analyzed their chemical composition and innate immunomodulatory activity .
Analysis of flower ( HEO ) versus leaf ( HEO ) essential oils using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry revealed that HEOwas comprised mainly of monoterpenes ( 52.8 % ) , with an abundance of oxygenated monoterpenes , including -- menth-3-en-1,2-diol ( 9.1 % ) , α-terpineol ( 6.1 % ) , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ limonen-4-ol ( 3.2 % ) , whereas the sesquiterpenes were found in trace amounts .
In contrast , HEOwas primarily composed of sesquiterpenes ( 63.2 % ) , including germacrene D ( 25.7 % ) andβ-caryophyllene ( 9.5 % ) .
HEOalso contained oxygenated monoterpenes , including terpinen-4-ol ( 2.6 % ) , while monoterpene hydrocarbons were found in trace amounts .
Both HEOand HEOinhibited neutrophil Camobilization , chemotaxis , and reactive oxygen species ( ROS ) production , with HEObeing much more active than HEO .
Furthermore , the pure sesquiterpenes germacrene @ @ @ @ @ @ @ inhibited these neutrophil responses , suggesting that these compounds represented the active components of HEO .
Although reverse pharmacophore mapping suggested that potential protein targets of germacrene D , β-caryophyllene , bicyclogermacrene , and α-humulene could be PIM1 and mitogen-activated protein kinase ( MAPK ) -activated protein kinase 2 ( MAPKAK2 ) , a kinase binding affinity assay did not support this finding , implying that other biological targets are involved .
Our results provide a cellular and molecular basis to explain at least part of the beneficial immunotherapeutic properties of theessential oils @

L. (Hypericaceae) extracts have been used for their therapeutic effects; however, not much is known about the immunomodulatory activity of essential oils extracted from this plant. We isolated essential oils from the flowers and leaves ofand analyzed their chemical composition and innate immunomodulatory activity. Analysis of flower (HEO) versus leaf (HEO) essential oils using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry revealed that HEOwas comprised mainly of monoterpenes (52.8%), with an abundance of oxygenated monoterpenes, including--menth-3-en-1,2-diol (9.1%),α-terpineol (6.1%), terpinen-4-ol (7.4%), and limonen-4-ol (3.2%), whereas the sesquiterpenes were found in trace amounts. In contrast, HEOwas primarily composed of sesquiterpenes (63.2%), including germacrene D (25.7%) andβ-caryophyllene (9.5%). HEOalso contained oxygenated monoterpenes, including terpinen-4-ol (2.6%), while monoterpene hydrocarbons were found in trace amounts. Both HEOand HEOinhibited neutrophil Camobilization, chemotaxis, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, with HEObeing much more active than HEO. Furthermore, the pure sesquiterpenes germacrene D,β-caryophyllene, and α-humulene also inhibited these neutrophil responses, suggesting that these compounds represented the active components of HEO. Although reverse pharmacophore mapping suggested that potential protein targets of germacrene D,β-caryophyllene, bicyclogermacrene, and α-humulene could be PIM1 and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)-activated protein kinase 2 (MAPKAK2), a kinase binding affinity assay did not support this finding, implying that other biological targets are involved. Our results provide a cellular and molecular basis to explain at least part of the beneficial immunotherapeutic properties of theessential oils.


greenmedinfo--2020-10-01--Echinacoside promotes the proliferation of human renal tubular epithelial cells by blocking the HBX/

Echinacoside promotes the proliferation of human renal tubular epithelial cells by blocking the HBX/TREM2‑mediated NF‑κB signalling pathway.

Hepatitis B virus X ( HBX ) protein is required for the replication of HBV and plays a role in the progression of hepatitis in humans .
However , the underlying function of HBX during HBV‑induced chronic glomerulonephritis ( HBV‑GN ) is unknown .
Echinacoside ( ECH ) is a phenylethanoid glycoside from the Cistanche genus , which possesses strong antiapoptosis and neuroprotective activities .
In the present study , the function of HBX and the relationship between HBX and ECH in human renal tubular epithelial cells ( RTECs ; HK‑2 cell line ) were explored .
Reverse transcription‑quantitative PCR @ @ @ @ @ @ @ quantify the mRNA and protein expression levels of HBX in HK‑2 cells , respectively .
The Cell Counting Kit‑8 assay was performed to analyse cell proliferation .
Flow cytometry analysis was used to determine the rate of apoptosis .
HBX showed antiproliferative and proapoptotic effects in HK‑2 cells and was positively associated with triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells 2 ( TREM2 ) expression .
Furthermore , ECH disrupted the function of HBX in HK‑2 cells , functioning as an HBX suppressor .
Moreover , a specific NF‑κB inhibitor , PDTC , was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ HBX and NF‑κB .
The results suggested that NF‑κB was involved in the HBX/TREM2 signaling pathway and negatively regulated TREM2 expression inRTECs .
The present study provided novel insights into the function of HBX , and also indicated the potential value of ECH as a therapeutic agent for HBV‑GN .

Hepatitis B virus X (HBX) protein is required for the replication of HBV and plays a role in the progression of hepatitis in humans. However, the underlying function of HBX during HBV‑induced chronic glomerulonephritis (HBV‑GN) is unknown. Echinacoside (ECH) is a phenylethanoid glycoside from the Cistanche genus, which possesses strong antiapoptosis and neuroprotective activities. In the present study, the function of HBX and the relationship between HBX and ECH in human renal tubular epithelial cells (RTECs; HK‑2 cell line) were explored. Reverse transcription‑quantitative PCR and western blot analyses were used to quantify the mRNA and protein expression levels of HBX in HK‑2 cells, respectively. The Cell Counting Kit‑8 assay was performed to analyse cell proliferation. Flow cytometry analysis was used to determine the rate of apoptosis. HBX showed antiproliferative and proapoptotic effects in HK‑2 cells and was positively associated with triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells 2 (TREM2) expression. Furthermore, ECH disrupted the function of HBX in HK‑2 cells, functioning as an HBX suppressor. Moreover, a specific NF‑κB inhibitor, PDTC, was used to further examine the relationship between HBX and NF‑κB. The results suggested that NF‑κB was involved in the HBX/TREM2 signaling pathway and negatively regulated TREM2 expression inRTECs. The present study provided novel insights into the function of HBX, and also indicated the potential value of ECH as a therapeutic agent for HBV‑GN.


greenmedinfo--2020-10-01--Echinacoside protects dopaminergic neurons.

Persistent microglia-mediated neuroinflammation contributes to the progressive loss of dopaminergic ( DA ) neurons in Parkinson 's disease ( PD ) .
Recently , NOD-like receptor protein 3 ( NLRP3 ) inflammasome-mediated neuroinflammation is considered to influence the pathogenesis of PD profoundly .
Promoting DA neuron survival and/or inhibiting neuroinflammation may offer neuroprotection for PD .
In the present study , we found that echinacoside ( ECH ) , a phenylethanoid glycoside derived from Cistanche Deserticola , ameliorated motor deficit induced by 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine ( MPTP ) in a mouse PD model , characterized as decreased mobility distance in open field @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , as well as increased turn time and total time in pole test .
ECH administration promoted the reduction of tyrosine hydroxylase ( TH ) expression and the number of TH-positive neurons in the substantia nigra ( SN ) under MPTP injury as the molecular docking simulation predicted that ECH would interact with TH .
Moreover , ECH improved cell viability in MPP-damaged SH-SY5Y cell , a cell line for DA neuron , in vitro .
Furthermore , ECH administration alleviated MPTP-triggered microglial activation , thus downregulated the expression and activation of NLRP3 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the involved proteins including Caspase ( CASP ) -1 and interleukin-1β ( IL-1β ) .
The inhibition of NLRP3/CASP-1/IL-1β neuroinflammatory signaling was further confirmed in murine N9 microglia activated by MPPinsult after ECH treatment in vitro .
Furthermore , MCC950 , a selective inhibitor for NLRP3 activation , reduced the enhancive expression of NLRP3/CASP-1/IL-1β in MPP-insulted N9 , and also facilitated the inhibition of inflammation synergistically mediated by ECH treatment .
All the collected data revealed that ECH ameliorated PD mice neuroethology through promoting DA neuron survival and inhibiting the activated microglia-mediated NLRP3/CASP-1/IL-1β @ @ @ @ @ @ @ crucial roles of NLRP3 inflammasome involved in PD neuropathology and ECH exertes neuroprotection for PD as double-targeting neuroinflammation and DA neuronal survival .

Persistent microglia-mediated neuroinflammation contributes to the progressive loss of dopaminergic (DA) neurons in Parkinson's disease (PD). Recently, NOD-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome-mediated neuroinflammation is considered to influence the pathogenesis of PD profoundly. Promoting DA neuron survival and/or inhibiting neuroinflammation may offer neuroprotection for PD. In the present study, we found that echinacoside (ECH), a phenylethanoid glycoside derived from Cistanche Deserticola, ameliorated motor deficit induced by 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP) in a mouse PD model, characterized as decreased mobility distance in open field test and average time in rotarod test, as well as increased turn time and total time in pole test. ECH administration promoted the reduction of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) expression and the number of TH-positive neurons in the substantia nigra (SN) under MPTP injury as the molecular docking simulation predicted that ECH would interact with TH. Moreover, ECH improved cell viability in MPP-damaged SH-SY5Y cell, a cell line for DA neuron, in vitro. Furthermore, ECH administration alleviated MPTP-triggered microglial activation, thus downregulated the expression and activation of NLRP3 inflammasomes in mice SN, along with the involved proteins including Caspase (CASP)-1 and interleukin-1β (IL-1β). The inhibition of NLRP3/CASP-1/IL-1β neuroinflammatory signaling was further confirmed in murine N9 microglia activated by MPPinsult after ECH treatment in vitro. Furthermore, MCC950, a selective inhibitor for NLRP3 activation, reduced the enhancive expression of NLRP3/CASP-1/IL-1β in MPP-insulted N9, and also facilitated the inhibition of inflammation synergistically mediated by ECH treatment. All the collected data revealed that ECH ameliorated PD mice neuroethology through promoting DA neuron survival and inhibiting the activated microglia-mediated NLRP3/CASP-1/IL-1β inflammatory signaling. These findings highlight the crucial roles of NLRP3 inflammasome involved in PD neuropathology and ECH exertes neuroprotection for PD as double-targeting neuroinflammation and DA neuronal survival.


greenmedinfo--2020-10-01--Post-screening characterization of an acidic polysaccharide from Echinacea purpurea with potent anti

Post-screening characterization of an acidic polysaccharide from Echinacea purpurea with potent anti-inflammatory properties in vivo.

We extracted and purified three polysaccharides from Echinacea purpurea using pectinase-assisted extraction to obtain crude preparations and optimized the method @ @ @ @ @ We obtained three polysaccharide fractions ( EPPS-1 , -2 and -3 ) using DEAE ion @ @ @ @ @ .
The homogeneity of the fractions was confirmed using high performance gel permeation chromatography .
@ @ @ @ @ a LPS-induced septicemia model effectively counteracted the effects of LPS resulting in significantly less lung @ @ @ @ @ also seen in the serum and lung cytokine levels where EPPS-3 significantly decreased the levels @ @ @ @ @ increased IL-10 .
Particularly , we fully characterized the structure of the EPPS-3 polysaccharide using @ @ @ @ @ This polysaccharide structure was mainly composed of →4 ) -α-Glcp- ( 1→ , →4 ) @ @ @ @ @ ( 1→ , →3,4 ) -β-GalpA- ( 1→ glycosidic linkagesat a certain proportion .
In @ @ @ @ @ a clear structure , has potent anti-inflammatory activities and is a candidate for further development @ @ @ @ @ clinical development .

We extracted and purified three polysaccharides from Echinacea purpurea using pectinase-assisted extraction to obtain crude preparations and optimized the method using an orthogonal analysis. We obtained three polysaccharide fractions (EPPS-1, -2 and -3) using DEAE ion exchange and gel filtration chromatography. The homogeneity of the fractions was confirmed using high performance gel permeation chromatography. EPPS-3 administered to mice in a LPS-induced septicemia model effectively counteracted the effects of LPS resulting in significantly less lung damage. This trend was also seen in the serum and lung cytokine levels where EPPS-3 significantly decreased the levels of TNF-α and IL-6 and increased IL-10. Particularly, we fully characterized the structure of the EPPS-3 polysaccharide using a series of technologies. This polysaccharide structure was mainly composed of →4)-α-Glcp-(1→, →4)-α-Galp-(1→, T-α-Araf-(1→, →3,4)-β-GalpA-(1→ glycosidic linkagesat a certain proportion. In sum, EPPS-3, with a clear structure, has potent anti-inflammatory activities and is a candidate for further development as an anti-inflammatory agent for clinical development.


greenmedinfo--2020-10-01--Medicinal herbs used in traditional management of breast cancer.

: Breast cancer is one of the principal causes of death among women and there is a pressing need to develop novel and effective anti-cancer agents .
Natural plant products have shown promising results as anti-cancer agents .
Their effectiveness is reported as decreased toxicity in usage , along with safety and less recurrent resistances compared with hormonal targeting anti-cancer agents .
: A literature search was conducted for all English-language literature published prior to June 2020 .
The search was conducted using electronic databases , including PubMed , Embase , Web of Science , and Cochrane Library .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cancer , herbs , anti-cancer biologically active components , clinical research , chemotherapy drugs amongst others .
: The literature provides documented evidence of the chemo-preventative and chemotherapeutic properties of Ginseng , garlic ( Allium sativum ) , Black cohosh ( Actaea racemose ) , Tumeric ( Curcuma longa ) , Camellia sinenis ( green tea ) , Echinacea , Arctium ( burdock ) , Flaxseed ( Linum usitatissimum ) and Black Cumin ( Nigella sativa ) .
: The nine herbs displayed anti-cancer properties and their outcomes and mechanisms of action include @ @ @ @ @ @ @ apoptosis as well as modulation of key intracellular pathways .
However , more clinical trials and cohort human studies should be conducted to provide key evidence of their medical benefits .

: Breast cancer is one of the principal causes of death among women and there is a pressing need to develop novel and effective anti-cancer agents. Natural plant products have shown promising results as anti-cancer agents. Their effectiveness is reported as decreased toxicity in usage, along with safety and less recurrent resistances compared with hormonal targeting anti-cancer agents.: A literature search was conducted for all English-language literature published prior to June 2020. The search was conducted using electronic databases, including PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library. The search strategy included keywords such as breast cancer, herbs, anti-cancer biologically active components, clinical research, chemotherapy drugs amongst others.: The literature provides documented evidence of the chemo-preventative and chemotherapeutic properties of Ginseng, garlic (Allium sativum), Black cohosh (Actaea racemose), Tumeric (Curcuma longa), Camellia sinenis (green tea), Echinacea, Arctium (burdock), Flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum) and Black Cumin (Nigella sativa).: The nine herbs displayed anti-cancer properties and their outcomes and mechanisms of action include inhibition of cell proliferation, angiogenesis and apoptosis as well as modulation of key intracellular pathways. However, more clinical trials and cohort human studies should be conducted to provide key evidence of their medical benefits.


greenmedinfo--2020-10-01--The effect of Echinacea on the prevention or treatment of COVID-19 and other respiratory tract infec

The effect of Echinacea on the prevention or treatment of COVID-19 and other respiratory tract infections in humans.

Brief overview : Current evidence suggests thatsupplementation may decrease the duration and severity of acute respiratory tract infections ; however , no studies usingin the prevention or treatment of conditions similar to COVID-19 have been identified .
Few adverse events were reported , suggesting that this herbal therapy is reasonably safe .
Becausecan increase immune function , there is a concern that it could worsen over-activation of the immune system in cytokine storm ; however , clinical trials show thatdecreases levels of immune molecules involved in cytokine storm .
Verdict : supplementation may assist with the symptoms of acute respiratory @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cold , particularly when administered at the first sign of infection ; however , no studies usingin the prevention or treatment of conditions similar to COVID-19 have been identified .
Previous studies have reported thatmay decrease the severity and/or duration of ARI when taken at the onset of symptoms .
The studies reporting benefit usedor a combination ofandcontaining standardized amounts of active constituents.Few adverse events from the use ofwere reported , suggesting that this herbal therapy is reasonably safe .
No human trials could be located reporting evidence of cytokine storm whenwas used @ @ @ @ @ @ @ human trials which reported changes in cytokine levels in response tosupplementation , the results were largely consistent with a decrease in the pro-inflammatory cytokines that play a role in the progression of cytokine storm and Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome ( ARDS ) , factors that play a significant role in the death of COVID-19 patients .
While there is currently no research on the therapeutic effects ofin the management of cytokine storm , this evidence suggests that further research is warranted .

Brief overview: Current evidence suggests thatsupplementation may decrease the duration and severity of acute respiratory tract infections; however, no studies usingin the prevention or treatment of conditions similar to COVID-19 have been identified. Few adverse events were reported, suggesting that this herbal therapy is reasonably safe. Becausecan increase immune function, there is a concern that it could worsen over-activation of the immune system in cytokine storm; however, clinical trials show thatdecreases levels of immune molecules involved in cytokine storm.
Verdict: supplementation may assist with the symptoms of acute respiratory infections (ARI) and the common cold, particularly when administered at the first sign of infection; however, no studies usingin the prevention or treatment of conditions similar to COVID-19 have been identified. Previous studies have reported thatmay decrease the severity and/or duration of ARI when taken at the onset of symptoms. The studies reporting benefit usedor a combination ofandcontaining standardized amounts of active constituents.Few adverse events from the use ofwere reported, suggesting that this herbal therapy is reasonably safe. No human trials could be located reporting evidence of cytokine storm whenwas used for up to 4 months.When assessing all human trials which reported changes in cytokine levels in response tosupplementation, the results were largely consistent with a decrease in the pro-inflammatory cytokines that play a role in the progression of cytokine storm and Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS), factors that play a significant role in the death of COVID-19 patients. While there is currently no research on the therapeutic effects ofin the management of cytokine storm, this evidence suggests that further research is warranted.


greenmedinfo--2020-10-02--Proapoptotic and antiangiogenic activities of Arctium lappa on breast cancer cell lines.

In this study , the bioactivity-guided fractionation was conducted on the aerial parts ofL .
and then the extracts were testedon breast cancer ( MCF-7 ) , colorectal cancer ( HCT-116 ) , and normal cells ( EA.hy926 ) .
The n-hexane fraction ( EHX ) of the ethanolic extract showed strong activity against both MCF-7 and EA.hy926 cell lines ( ICvalues : 14.08 ± 3.64 and 27.25 ± 3.45 g/mL , respectively ) .
The proapoptotic activity of EHX was assessed using MCF-7 .
Morphological alterations were visualized using Hoechst staining and a transmission electron microscope .
Cancer cell @ @ @ @ @ @ @ EHX significantly upregulated p53 , TGF- , and NF-B .
Furthermore , EHX was found to disrupt the metastatic cascade of breast cancer cells by the inhibition of cell proliferation , migration , invasion , and colonization .
The antiangiogenic activity of EHX fraction showed potent inhibition of rat aorta microvessels with ICvalue : 4.34 ± 1.64 g/mL .
This result was supported by the downregulation of VEGF-A expression up to 54 % .
Over 20 compounds were identified in EHX using GC-MS , of which stigmasterol , -sitosterol , and 3-O-acetyllupeol are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of EHX showed higher phenolic and flavonoid contents with a substantial antioxidant activity .
In conclusion , this work demonstrated thathas valuable anticancer activity and antiangiogenic properties that might be useful in breast cancer therapy .

In this study, the bioactivity-guided fractionation was conducted on the aerial parts ofL. and then the extracts were testedon breast cancer (MCF-7), colorectal cancer (HCT-116), and normal cells (EA.hy926). The n-hexane fraction (EHX) of the ethanolic extract showed strong activity against both MCF-7 and EA.hy926 cell lines (ICvalues: 14.08 ± 3.64 and 27.25 ± 3.45 g/mL, respectively). The proapoptotic activity of EHX was assessed using MCF-7. Morphological alterations were visualized using Hoechst staining and a transmission electron microscope. Cancer cell signal transduction pathways were investigated, and EHX significantly upregulated p53, TGF-, and NF-B. Furthermore, EHX was found to disrupt the metastatic cascade of breast cancer cells by the inhibition of cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and colonization. The antiangiogenic activity of EHX fraction showed potent inhibition of rat aorta microvessels with ICvalue: 4.34 ± 1.64 g/mL. This result was supported by the downregulation of VEGF-A expression up to 54%. Over 20 compounds were identified in EHX using GC-MS, of which stigmasterol,-sitosterol, and 3-O-acetyllupeol are the major active compounds. Phytochemical analysis of EHX showed higher phenolic and flavonoid contents with a substantial antioxidant activity. In conclusion, this work demonstrated thathas valuable anticancer activity and antiangiogenic properties that might be useful in breast cancer therapy.


greenmedinfo--2020-10-02--Arctium lappa L. polysaccharide can regulate lipid metabolism in type 2 diabetic rats.

In the analysis of risk factors of diabetes mellitus with coronary heart disease , dyslipidemia is the most important .
Previous studies have found that Arctium lappa L. polysaccharide ( ALP ) can regulate lipid metabolism in type 1 diabetic rats , but it has not been studied in type 2 diabetes .
In this study , the regulatory effect of ALP on lipid metabolism in type 2 diabetic rats was investigated by constructing a model of type 2 diabetes .
The results of blood biochemical analysis showed that ALP effectively reduced the synthesis of triglycerides and cholesterol , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rats .
Histopathological observation ( hematoxylin and eosin , Masson , Periodic Acid-Schiff and oil red O staining ) showed that it also effectively regulated lipid metabolism in the liver of diabetic rats and inhibited the process of liver fibrosis .
Immunohistochemistry and Western blot analysis showed that ALP regulated the expression of sterol regulatory element-binding protein-1 ( SREBP-1 ) and stearoyl-CoA desaturase 1 ( SCD-1 ) in the liver of diabetic rats .
In conclusion , the results of this study demonstrate that ALP can effectively regulate lipid metabolism and reduce the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rats through the SREBP-1/SCD-1 axis .

In the analysis of risk factors of diabetes mellitus with coronary heart disease, dyslipidemia is the most important. Previous studies have found that Arctium lappa L. polysaccharide (ALP) can regulate lipid metabolism in type 1 diabetic rats, but it has not been studied in type 2 diabetes. In this study, the regulatory effect of ALP on lipid metabolism in type 2 diabetic rats was investigated by constructing a model of type 2 diabetes. The results of blood biochemical analysis showed that ALP effectively reduced the synthesis of triglycerides and cholesterol, and reduced the risk of atherosclerosis in diabetic rats. Histopathological observation (hematoxylin and eosin, Masson, Periodic Acid-Schiff and oil red O staining) showed that it also effectively regulated lipid metabolism in the liver of diabetic rats and inhibited the process of liver fibrosis. Immunohistochemistry and Western blot analysis showed that ALP regulated the expression of sterol regulatory element-binding protein-1 (SREBP-1) and stearoyl-CoA desaturase 1 (SCD-1) in the liver of diabetic rats. In conclusion, the results of this study demonstrate that ALP can effectively regulate lipid metabolism and reduce the risk of atherosclerosis in type 2 diabetic rats through the SREBP-1/SCD-1 axis.


greenmedinfo--2020-10-02--Arctigenin attenuates breast cancer progression.

Invasive breast cancer is highly regulated by tumor-derived cytokines in tumor microenvironment .
The development of drugs that specifically target @ @ @ @ @ cancer treatment .
In this study , we reported that arctigenin , a bioactive compound @ @ @ @ @ cytokines GM-CSF , MMP-3 , MMP-9 and TSLP in breast cancer cells .
Arctigenin not @ @ @ @ @ but also the invasion and stemness of breast cancer cells via decreasing GM-CSF and TSLP @ @ @ @ @ the promoter activities of GM-CSF and TSLP via reducing the nuclear translocation of NF-κB p65 @ @ @ @ @ transcription of GM-CSF and TSLP .
Furthermore , arctigenin-induced depletion of GM-CSF and TSLP inhibited @ @ @ @ @ resulting in decreased proliferation , invasion and stemness of breast cancer cells in vitro and @ @ @ @ @ provide new insights into the mechanism by which tumor-promoting cytokines regulate breast cancer progression and @ @ @ @ @ promising candidate for cytokine-targeted breast cancer therapy .

Invasive breast cancer is highly regulated by tumor-derived cytokines in tumor microenvironment. The development of drugs that specifically target cytokines are promising in breast cancer treatment. In this study, we reported that arctigenin, a bioactive compound fromL., could decrease tumor-promoting cytokines GM-CSF, MMP-3, MMP-9 and TSLP in breast cancer cells. Arctigenin not only inhibited the proliferation, but also the invasion and stemness of breast cancer cells via decreasing GM-CSF and TSLP. Mechanistically, arctigenin decreased the promoter activities of GM-CSF and TSLP via reducing the nuclear translocation of NF-κB p65 which is crucial for the transcription of GM-CSF and TSLP. Furthermore, arctigenin-induced depletion of GM-CSF and TSLP inhibited STAT3 phosphorylation and β-catenin signaling resulting in decreased proliferation, invasion and stemness of breast cancer cells in vitro and in vivo. Our findings provide new insights into the mechanism by which tumor-promoting cytokines regulate breast cancer progression and suggest that arctigenin is a promising candidate for cytokine-targeted breast cancer therapy.


greenmedinfo--2020-10-02--These findings reveal crocetin's potential use as a calcium channel antagonist for the treatment of

Crocetin is a major bioactive ingredient in saffron ( Crocus sativus L. ) and has favorable cardiovascular effects .
Here , the effects of crocetin on L-type Cacurrent ( I ) , contractility , and the Catransients of rat cardiomyocytes , were investigated via patch-clamp technique and the Ion Optix system .
A 600 µg/mL dose of crocetin decreased I31.50 ± 2.53 % in normal myocytes and 35.56 ± 2.42 % in ischemic myocytes , respectively .
The current voltage nexus of the calcium current , the reversal of the calcium current , and the activation/deactivation of the calcium current @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , crocetin abated cell shorteningby 28.6 ± 2.31 % , with a decrease in the time to 50 % of the peak and a decrease in the time to 50 % of the baseline .
At 600 µg/mL , crocetin abated the crest value of the ephemeral Caby 31.87 ± 2.57 % .
The time to half maximal of Capeak and the time constant of decay of Catransient were both reduced .
Our results suggest that crocetin inhibits L-type Cachannels , causing decreased intracellular Caconcentration and contractility in adult rat ventricular myocytes .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ as a calcium channel antagonist for the treatment of cardiovascular disease .

Crocetin is a major bioactive ingredient in saffron (Crocus sativus L.) and has favorable cardiovascular effects. Here, the effects of crocetin on L-type Cacurrent (I), contractility, and the Catransients of rat cardiomyocytes, were investigated via patch-clamp technique and the Ion Optix system. A 600 µg/mL dose of crocetin decreased I31.50 ± 2.53% in normal myocytes and 35.56 ± 2.42% in ischemic myocytes, respectively. The current voltage nexus of the calcium current, the reversal of the calcium current, and the activation/deactivation of the calcium current was not changed. At 600 µg/mL, crocetin abated cell shorteningby 28.6 ± 2.31%, with a decrease in the time to 50% of the peak and a decrease in the time to 50% of the baseline. At 600 µg/mL, crocetin abated the crest value of the ephemeral Caby 31.87 ± 2.57%. The time to half maximal of Capeak and the time constant of decay of Catransient were both reduced. Our results suggest that crocetin inhibits L-type Cachannels, causing decreased intracellular Caconcentration and contractility in adult rat ventricular myocytes. These findings reveal crocetin's potential use as a calcium channel antagonist for the treatment of cardiovascular disease.


greenmedinfo--2020-10-02--Crocetin attenuates the oxidative stress, inflammation and apoptosis in arsenic trioxide-induced nep

Crocetin attenuates the oxidative stress, inflammation and apoptosis in arsenic trioxide-induced nephrotoxic rats.

Arsenic trioxide ( ATO ) -induced renal toxicity through oxidative stress and apoptosis restricts the therapeutic action of acute myelogenous leukemia .
Crocetin ( Crt ) possesses antioxidant and antiapoptosis properties , and has certain renal protective effects , but it has not been reported that it has protective effect on renal injury caused by ATO .
The current study explored the effects and mechanisms of Crt on kidney damage induced by ATO .
Fifty Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into five groups .
Adult rats were given Crt concurrently with ATO for 1 week .
On the 8th day @ @ @ @ @ @ @ kidney tissues were collected .
Histopathological changes were measured , and kidneytissues and serum were used to determine renal function and antioxidant enzyme activity .
In addition , the protein expression levels of P-PI3K , PI3K , P-AKT , AKT , CytC , Bax , Bcl-2 and Caspase-3 were determined via western blot analysis .
Results revealed ATO induced renal morphological alterations and activated serum BUN and CRE .
Compared with the control group , ROS , MDA , IL-1β , TNF-α , protein carbonyls ( PC ) , lipid hydroperoxides ( LOOH @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to be significantly increased and SOD , CAT , GSH-Px , GSH and total sulphydryl groups ( TSH ) levels were attenuated in the ATO group .
Crt markedly reduced oxidative stress in ATO-induced nephrotoxicity .
Further , ATO induced apoptosis by significantly enhancing CytC , Bax and Caspase-3 and inhibiting Bcl-2 .
Administration with Crt markedly improved the expression of apoptosis factor .
Moreover , Crt treatment stimulated the expressions of P-PI3K , PI3K , P-AKT , AKT induced by ATO .
This study indicates Crt could prevent renal injury caused by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and apoptosis , and its mechanism may be related to activation of PI3K/Akt signaling pathway .

Arsenic trioxide (ATO)-induced renal toxicity through oxidative stress and apoptosis restricts the therapeutic action of acute myelogenous leukemia. Crocetin (Crt) possesses antioxidant and antiapoptosis properties, and has certain renal protective effects, but it has not been reported that it has protective effect on renal injury caused by ATO. The current study explored the effects and mechanisms of Crt on kidney damage induced by ATO. Fifty Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into five groups. Adult rats were given Crt concurrently with ATO for 1 week. On the 8th day, rats were killed and blood and kidney tissues were collected. Histopathological changes were measured, and kidneytissues and serum were used to determine renal function and antioxidant enzyme activity. In addition, the protein expression levels of P-PI3K, PI3K, P-AKT, AKT, CytC, Bax, Bcl-2 and Caspase-3 were determined via western blot analysis. Results revealed ATO induced renal morphological alterations and activated serum BUN and CRE. Compared with the control group, ROS, MDA, IL-1β, TNF-α, protein carbonyls (PC), lipid hydroperoxides (LOOH) and arsenic concentration levels were found to be significantly increased and SOD, CAT, GSH-Px, GSH and total sulphydryl groups (TSH) levels were attenuated in the ATO group. Crt markedly reduced oxidative stress in ATO-induced nephrotoxicity. Further, ATO induced apoptosis by significantly enhancing CytC, Bax and Caspase-3 and inhibiting Bcl-2. Administration with Crt markedly improved the expression of apoptosis factor. Moreover, Crt treatment stimulated the expressions of P-PI3K, PI3K, P-AKT, AKT induced by ATO. This study indicates Crt could prevent renal injury caused by ATO through inhibiting oxidative stress,inflammation and apoptosis, and its mechanism may be related to activation of PI3K/Akt signaling pathway.


greenmedinfo--2020-10-02--Protective effects of crocetin against radiation-induced injury in intestinal epithelial cells.

Background and Aims : Treatment options for radiation-induced intestinal injury ( RIII ) are limited .
Crocetin has been demonstrated to exert antioxidant , antiapoptotic , and anti-inflammatory effects on various diseases .
Here , we investigate the effects of crocetin on RIII.. IEC-6 cells exposed to 10 Gy of radiation were treated with different doses of crocetin ( 0 , 0.1 , 1 , 10 , and 100 M ) , and cell viability was assessed by CCK-8 .
The levels of superoxide dismutase ( SOD ) , catalase ( CAT ) , glutathione peroxidase ( GPx ) , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ MPO ) , tumor necrosis factor- ( TNF- ) , interleukin-1 ( IL-1 ) , and interferon- ( IFN- ) in culture supernatants were measured using colorimetric and ELISA kits , respectively .
Cellular apoptosis was evaluated by Annexin V/PI double staining .
Results : Crocetin dose-dependently improved the survival of irradiated IEC-6 cells with the optimal dose of 10 M , as indicated by the reduction of cellular apoptosis , decreased levels of MDA , MPO , and proinflammatory cytokines ( TNF- , IL-1 , and IFN- ) , and increased activities @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and GPx ) .
Conclusion : Our findings demonstrated that crocetin alleviated radiation-induced injury in intestinal epithelial cells , offering a promising agent for radioprotection .

Background and Aims: Treatment options for radiation-induced intestinal injury (RIII) are limited. Crocetin has been demonstrated to exert antioxidant, antiapoptotic, and anti-inflammatory effects on various diseases. Here, we investigate the effects of crocetin on RIII.. IEC-6 cells exposed to 10 Gy of radiation were treated with different doses of crocetin (0, 0.1, 1, 10, and 100 M), and cell viability was assessed by CCK-8. The levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), malondialdehyde (MDA), myeloperoxidase (MPO), tumor necrosis factor-(TNF-), interleukin-1(IL-1), and interferon-(IFN-) in culture supernatants were measured using colorimetric and ELISA kits, respectively. Cellular apoptosis was evaluated by Annexin V/PI double staining.
Results: Crocetin dose-dependently improved the survival of irradiated IEC-6 cells with the optimal dose of 10 M, as indicated by the reduction of cellular apoptosis, decreased levels of MDA, MPO, and proinflammatory cytokines (TNF-, IL-1, and IFN-), and increased activities of antioxidative enzymes (SOD, CAT, and GPx).
Conclusion: Our findings demonstrated that crocetin alleviated radiation-induced injury in intestinal epithelial cells, offering a promising agent for radioprotection.


greenmedinfo--2020-10-02--Crocetin and crocin decreased cholesterol and triglyceride content of both breast cancer tumors and

Crocetin and crocin decreased cholesterol and triglyceride content of both breast cancer tumors and cell lines.

Objective : Inhibition of lipid metabolism in breast cancer has been suggested as an effective approach for cancer therapy .
Saffron-derived crocetin ( Crt ) and crocin ( Cro ) with the known anticancer activity , have shown hypolipidemic effect in diabetes and atherosclerosis .
Here , we investigated the effect of Crt/Cro on lipid content in breast cancer .
Materials and Methods : A multi-model approach involvingandstudies was applied .
The 4T1-induced breast cancer in mice was used to investigate the effect of Crt/Cro on cholesterol ( Chl ) and triglyceride ( TG ) levels in serum and tumor @ @ @ @ @ @ @ assessed in the cytosol of MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 breast cancer cell lines 6 , 12 and 24 hr after Crt/Cro treatment .
The interaction between Crt/Cro and hydroxymethylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase ( HMGCR ) was also computed by docking analysis .
Results : Crt reduced both serum ( p=0.003 ) and tumor ( p=0.011 ) Chl and TG ( p=0.001 ) levels in mice .
Cro reduced TG levels in tumor ( p=0.014 ) and serum ( p=0.002 ) and Chl level in tumor ( p=0.013 ) tissues .
Crt reduced both Chl @ @ @ @ @ @ @ p=0.002 , respectively ) and MCF-7 ( p=0.014 and p=0.002 , respectively ) , after 24 h. Cro reduced both Chl and TG in MDA-MB-231 ( p=0.014 and p=0.002 , respectively ) and MCF-7 ( p=0.014 and p=0.002 , respectively ) , after 24 h. Crt binds to the active site of HMGCR with higher affinity ( ΔG=-6.6 kcal/mol ) than simvastatin ( ΔG=-6.0 kcal/mol ) .
Conclusion : Crt and Cro effectively decreased Chl/TG content in the sera of tumor bearing mice , in breast tumors and breast cancer cell lines .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Cro.analysis indicated Crt binding in the HMGCR active site .

Objective: Inhibition of lipid metabolism in breast cancer has been suggested as an effective approach for cancer therapy. Saffron-derived crocetin (Crt) and crocin (Cro) with the known anticancer activity, have shown hypolipidemic effect in diabetes and atherosclerosis. Here, we investigated the effect of Crt/Cro on lipid content in breast cancer.
Materials and Methods: A multi-model approach involvingandstudies was applied. The 4T1-induced breast cancer in mice was used to investigate the effect of Crt/Cro on cholesterol (Chl) and triglyceride (TG) levels in serum and tumor tissues. The Chl/TG levels were also assessed in the cytosol of MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 breast cancer cell lines 6, 12 and 24 hr after Crt/Cro treatment. The interaction between Crt/Cro and hydroxymethylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase (HMGCR) was also computed by docking analysis.
Results: Crt reduced both serum (p=0.003) and tumor (p=0.011) Chl and TG (p=0.001) levels in mice. Cro reduced TG levels in tumor (p=0.014) and serum (p=0.002) and Chl level in tumor (p=0.013) tissues. Crt reduced both Chl and TG in MDA-MB-231 (p=0.014 and p=0.002, respectively) and MCF-7 (p=0.014 and p=0.002, respectively), after 24 h. Cro reduced both Chl and TG in MDA-MB-231 (p=0.014 and p=0.002, respectively) and MCF-7 (p=0.014 and p=0.002, respectively), after 24 h. Crt binds to the active site of HMGCR with higher affinity (ΔG=-6.6 kcal/mol) than simvastatin (ΔG=-6.0 kcal/mol).
Conclusion: Crt and Cro effectively decreased Chl/TG content in the sera of tumor bearing mice, in breast tumors and breast cancer cell lines. Crt showed a higher hypolipidemic potential than Cro.analysis indicated Crt binding in the HMGCR active site.


greenmedinfo--2020-10-02--Ameliorative effects of crocin on tartrazine dye-induced pancreatic adverse effects.

The present study aimed to analyze the impact of tartrazine ( T ) and crocin ( Cr ) applications on the pancreas tissues of the Wistar rats .
A total of 40 Wistar rats were randomly divided into 4 groups with 10 rats in each group , including the Control , T , Cr , and T + Cr groups .
After 3 weeks of application , the pancreatic tissues of the rats were removed under anesthesia and rat blood samples were obtained .
Tissues were analyzed with biochemical and histopathological methods .
It was determined that T administration increased @ @ @ @ @ @ @ status ( TOS ) , oxidative stress index ( OSI ) , glucose , triglyceride , LDL , VLDL , and total cholesterol levels .
However , it decreased reduced glutathione ( GSH ) , total antioxidant status ( TAS ) , superoxide dismutase ( SOD ) , catalase ( CAT ) , and HDL levels when compared with the other groups .
It was observed that Cr administration significantly increased GSH , SOD , CAT , TAS , and HDL levels when compared with the control group .
In the T group @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tissue , leading to damages in exocrine pancreas and islets of Langerhans and increased caspase-3 immunoreactivity ( p≤ 0.001 ) .
Co-administration of Cr and T brought the biochemical and histopathological findings closer to the control group levels .
The administration of T induced damage in the pancreas with the administered dose and frequency .
Cr can increase the antioxidant capacity in pancreas tissue .
Co-administration of T and Cr contributed to the reduction of the toxic effects induced by T. It could be suggested that Cr administration ameliorated T toxicity .

The present study aimed to analyze the impact of tartrazine (T) and crocin (Cr) applications on the pancreas tissues of the Wistar rats. A total of 40 Wistar rats were randomly divided into 4 groups with 10 rats in each group, including the Control, T, Cr, and T + Cr groups. After 3 weeks of application, the pancreatic tissues of the rats were removed under anesthesia and rat blood samples were obtained. Tissues were analyzed with biochemical and histopathological methods. It was determined that T administration increased malondialdehyde (MDA), total oxidant status (TOS), oxidative stress index (OSI), glucose, triglyceride, LDL, VLDL, and total cholesterol levels. However, it decreased reduced glutathione (GSH), total antioxidant status (TAS), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and HDL levels when compared with the other groups. It was observed that Cr administration significantly increased GSH, SOD, CAT, TAS, and HDL levels when compared with the control group. In the T group, histopathological changes were observed in pancreatic tissue, leading to damages in exocrine pancreas and islets of Langerhans and increased caspase-3 immunoreactivity (p≤ 0.001). Co-administration of Cr and T brought the biochemical and histopathological findings closer to the control group levels. The administration of T induced damage in the pancreas with the administered dose and frequency. Cr can increase the antioxidant capacity in pancreas tissue. Co-administration of T and Cr contributed to the reduction of the toxic effects induced by T. It could be suggested that Cr administration ameliorated T toxicity.


greenmedinfo--2020-10-02--Astragaloside IV exerts renal protective effects in animals with diabetes mellitus through multiple

Astragaloside IV exerts renal protective effects in animals with diabetes mellitus through multiple signalling pathways.

Astragaloside IV ( ASIV ) is the essential active component of astragalus that has diverse biological activities .
Previous research has suggested its potentially beneficial effects on diabetic nephropathies .
However , its effects and protective mechanism remain unclear .
In this study , we conducted a preclinical systematic review to evaluate the efficacy and potential mechanisms of ASIV in reducing kidney damage in diabetes mellitus ( DM ) models .
Studies were searched from nine databases until January 2020 .
A random-effects model was used to calculate combined standardised mean difference estimates and 95 % confidence intervals .
Risk @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Systematic Review Center for Laboratory Animal Experimentation risk of bias tool 10-item checklist .
RevMan 5.3 software was used for statistical analysis .
Twenty-three studies involving 562 animals were included in the meta-analysis .
Studies quality scores ranged from 2 to 5 .
The ASIV group induced a marked decrease in serum creatinine ( P < 0.00001 ) , blood urea nitrogen ( P < 0.00001 ) , 24-h urine protein ( P < 0.00001 ) and pathological score ( P < 0.001 ) compared with the control group .
The determined @ @ @ @ @ @ @ oxidative stress , delaying renal fibrosis , anti-apoptosis and anti-inflammatory action .
We conclude that ASIV exerts renal protective effects in animals with DM through multiple signalling pathways .

Astragaloside IV (ASIV) is the essential active component of astragalus that has diverse biological activities. Previous research has suggested its potentially beneficial effects on diabetic nephropathies. However, its effects and protective mechanism remain unclear. In this study, we conducted a preclinical systematic review to evaluate the efficacy and potential mechanisms of ASIV in reducing kidney damage in diabetes mellitus (DM) models. Studies were searched from nine databases until January 2020. A random-effects model was used to calculate combined standardised mean difference estimates and 95 % confidence intervals. Risk of bias of studies was assessed using the Systematic Review Center for Laboratory Animal Experimentation risk of bias tool 10-item checklist. RevMan 5.3 software was used for statistical analysis. Twenty-three studies involving 562 animals were included in the meta-analysis. Studies quality scores ranged from 2 to 5. The ASIV group induced a marked decrease in serum creatinine (P<0.00001), blood urea nitrogen (P<0.00001), 24-h urine protein (P<0.00001) and pathological score (P<0.001) compared with the control group. The determined potential mechanisms of ASIV action were relieving oxidative stress, delaying renal fibrosis, anti-apoptosis and anti-inflammatory action. We conclude that ASIV exerts renal protective effects in animals with DM through multiple signalling pathways.


greenmedinfo--2020-10-02--Astragaloside IV: An effective drug for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases.

Cardiovascular disease ( CVD ) , the number one cause of death worldwide , has always been the focus of clinical and scientific research .
Due to the high number of deaths each year , it is essential to find alternative therapies that are safe and effective with minimal side effects .
Traditional Chinese medicine ( TCM ) has a long history of significant impact on the treatment of CVDs .
The mode of action of natural active ingredients of drugs and the development of new drugs are currently hot topics in research on TCM.is a commonly used Chinese medicinal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ anti-tumor properties and can regulate metabolism , enhance immunity , and strengthen the heart .
Astragaloside IV ( AS-IV ) is the active ingredient of , which has a prominent role in cardiovascular diseases .
AS-IV can protect against ischemic and hypoxic myocardial cell injury , inhibit myocardial hypertrophy and myocardial fibrosis , enhance myocardial contractility , improve diastolic dysfunction , alleviate vascular endothelial dysfunction , and promote angiogenesis .
It can also regulate blood glucose and blood lipid levels and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases .
In this paper , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in recent years is reviewed in order to provide a reference for future research and new drug development .

Cardiovascular disease (CVD), the number one cause of death worldwide, has always been the focus of clinical and scientific research. Due to the high number of deaths each year, it is essential to find alternative therapies that are safe and effective with minimal side effects. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has a long history of significant impact on the treatment of CVDs. The mode of action of natural active ingredients of drugs and the development of new drugs are currently hot topics in research on TCM.is a commonly used Chinese medicinal herb. Previous studies have shown thathas anti-tumor properties and can regulate metabolism, enhance immunity, and strengthen the heart. Astragaloside IV (AS-IV) is the active ingredient of, which has a prominent role in cardiovascular diseases. AS-IV can protect against ischemic and hypoxic myocardial cell injury, inhibit myocardial hypertrophy and myocardial fibrosis, enhance myocardial contractility, improve diastolic dysfunction, alleviate vascular endothelial dysfunction, and promote angiogenesis. It can also regulate blood glucose and blood lipid levels and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. In this paper, the mechanism of AS-IV intervention in cardiovascular diseases in recent years is reviewed in order to provide a reference for future research and new drug development.


greenmedinfo--2020-10-02--Study on the anticancer effect of an astragaloside and chlorogenic acid-containing herbal medicine (

Study on the anticancer effect of an astragaloside and chlorogenic acid-containing herbal medicine (RLT-03) in breast cancer.

Background : Although surgery , chemotherapy , radiotherapy , and endocrine therapy are widely used in clinical practice for breast cancer treatment , herbal medicines ( HMs ) are considered as an alternative to palliative treatments because of their coordinated intervention effects and relatively low side effects .
Astragaloside ( AS ) and chlorogenic acid ( CGA ) are major active ingredients ofand , which have shown antitumorigenic properties in certain cancers , but the role of HMs containing both AS and CGA remains unclear in breast cancer .
In this study , we explored an AS- and CGA-containing HM @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Methods : RLT-03 was extracted using water and n-butanol , and the AS and CGA ingredients in RLT-03 were identified by high-performance liquid chromatography ( HPLC ) and evaporative light-scattering detector ( ELSD ) .
4T1 , EMT6 , BT-549 , and MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cell lines were used , and an EMT6 xenograft model was established .
Cell proliferation , migration , and apoptosis were measured , and tumor volume and weight were observed .
The expression of VEGF , EGF , IL-10 , TGF- , and CD34 and cell apoptosis @ @ @ @ @ @ @ RLT-03 inhibited cell viability and induced apoptosis in a dose- and time-dependent manner.
, tumor volume and weight were reduced , and the expression of VEGF , EGF , IL-10 , TGF- , and CD34 was suppressed in the tumor microenvironment , while cell apoptosis was induced .
Conclusion : RLT-03 exhibited therapeutic effects against breast cancer by regulating the expression of ligands of receptor tyrosine kinases ( RTKs ) and inflammatory factors .
Thus , RLT-03 represents a potential supplementary HM that can be used in breast cancer therapy .

Background: Although surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and endocrine therapy are widely used in clinical practice for breast cancer treatment, herbal medicines (HMs) are considered as an alternative to palliative treatments because of their coordinated intervention effects and relatively low side effects. Astragaloside (AS) and chlorogenic acid (CGA) are major active ingredients ofand, which have shown antitumorigenic properties in certain cancers, but the role of HMs containing both AS and CGA remains unclear in breast cancer. In this study, we explored an AS- and CGA-containing HM (RLT-03) extracted from,,and.
Methods: RLT-03 was extracted using water and n-butanol, and the AS and CGA ingredients in RLT-03 were identified by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and evaporative light-scattering detector (ELSD). 4T1, EMT6, BT-549, and MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cell lines were used, and an EMT6 xenograft model was established. Cell proliferation, migration, and apoptosis were measured, and tumor volume and weight were observed. The expression of VEGF, EGF, IL-10, TGF-, and CD34 and cell apoptosis in tumors were examined.
Results: RLT-03 inhibited cell viability and induced apoptosis in a dose- and time-dependent manner., tumor volume and weight were reduced, and the expression of VEGF, EGF, IL-10, TGF-, and CD34 was suppressed in the tumor microenvironment, while cell apoptosis was induced.
Conclusion: RLT-03 exhibited therapeutic effects against breast cancer by regulating the expression of ligands of receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) and inflammatory factors. Thus, RLT-03 represents a potential supplementary HM that can be used in breast cancer therapy.


greenmedinfo--2020-10-02--Lonicera japonica flower bud may be useful for treating Citrobacter rodentium-induced digestive trac

Lonicera japonica flower bud may be useful for treating Citrobacter rodentium-induced digestive tract infection.

Although antibiotic therapy is currently a gold standard for bacterial infections , it is not used for severe diseases like @ @ @ @ @ Shiga toxin is overproduced by antibiotic action .
Theflower bud ( LJF ) is an @ @ @ @ @ diseases in traditional Japanese and Chinese medicine .
We investigated the effects of LJF extract @ @ @ @ @ tract infection in a mouse model.and LJFE were orally administered to C57BL/6 mice .
The @ @ @ @ @ in the large intestine , mesenteric lymph node , and blood of mice were evaluated @ @ @ @ @ macrophages of LJFE-treated mice were measured using ELISA .
Moreover , the phagocytic activity of @ @ @ @ @ LJFE- or chlorogenic acid ( CGA ) -treated mice.LJFE significantly increased the survival rate and @ @ @ @ @ , the values of tumor necrosis factor-α , interleukin-1β , and interferon-γ secreted from macrophages @ @ @ @ @ .
While macrophages of LJFE-treated mice showed a significant phagocytic activity , macrophages of CGA-treated @ @ @ @ @ tendency.LJF may be useful for treating-induced digestive tract infection .

Although antibiotic therapy is currently a gold standard for bacterial infections, it is not used for severe diseases like enterohemorrhagic, in which the Shiga toxin is overproduced by antibiotic action. Theflower bud (LJF) is an herbal component used against purulent diseases in traditional Japanese and Chinese medicine. We investigated the effects of LJF extract (LJFE) on-induced digestive tract infection in a mouse model.and LJFE were orally administered to C57BL/6 mice. The survival rate and bacterial colonization in the large intestine, mesenteric lymph node, and blood of mice were evaluated. Cytokines secreted from intraperitoneal macrophages of LJFE-treated mice were measured using ELISA. Moreover, the phagocytic activity of intraperitoneal macrophages againstwas compared between LJFE- or chlorogenic acid (CGA)-treated mice.LJFE significantly increased the survival rate and decreasedcolonization in mice. Moreover, the values of tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-1β, and interferon-γ secreted from macrophages were increased following LJFE treatment. While macrophages of LJFE-treated mice showed a significant phagocytic activity, macrophages of CGA-treated mice only showed a phagocytic tendency.LJF may be useful for treating-induced digestive tract infection.


greenmedinfo--2020-10-02--Protective effect of a novel polysaccharide from Lonicera japonica on cardiomyocytes of mice injured

Protective effect of a novel polysaccharide from Lonicera japonica on cardiomyocytes of mice injured by hydrogen peroxide.

is a traditional Chinese herbal medicine with antioxidation , anti-inflammatory , antibacterial , and immunoregulation functions .
A method to @ @ @ @ @ ) has been reported previously by our group .
We also reported previously that LJP @ @ @ @ @ of monosaccharides and had the characteristic absorption of typical polysaccharides .
In this study , @ @ @ @ @ of LJP on cardiomyocytes of mice injured by hydrogen peroxide ( HO ) .
The @ @ @ @ @ increase the cardiomyocyte viability and the activities of the enzyme ( SOD , CAT , @ @ @ @ @ , and LDH ) in cardiomyocytes of mice injured by hydrogen peroxide .
The results @ @ @ @ @ that a high dose ( 40 g mL ) of LJP had the best effects @ @ @ @ @ mice injured by HO .
In addition , the measurement results of the cardiomyocyte apoptosis @ @ @ @ @ , caspase-8 , and caspase-9 in cardiomyocytes confirmed this conclusion from another perspective .

is a traditional Chinese herbal medicine with antioxidation, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and immunoregulation functions. A method to isolate polysaccharides from(LJP) has been reported previously by our group. We also reported previously that LJP was consisted of 6 types of monosaccharides and had the characteristic absorption of typical polysaccharides. In this study, we investigated the protective effect of LJP on cardiomyocytes of mice injured by hydrogen peroxide (HO). The results showed that LJP can increase the cardiomyocyte viability and the activities of the enzyme (SOD, CAT, GSH-Px, AST, CPK, and LDH) in cardiomyocytes of mice injured by hydrogen peroxide. The results of intracellular ROS contents showed that a high dose (40 g mL) of LJP had the best effects on protecting the cardiomyocytes of mice injured by HO. In addition, the measurement results of the cardiomyocyte apoptosis and the activity of caspase-3, caspase-8, and caspase-9 in cardiomyocytes confirmed this conclusion from another perspective.