greenmedinfo--2020-06-24--Immediate effect of slow pace Bhastrika Pranayama on blood pressure and heart rate.

OBJECTIVES : The objective of this study was to evaluate the immediate effect of slow pace bhastrika pranayama ( respiratory rate 6/min ) for 5 minutes on heart rate and blood pressure and the effect of the same breathing exercise for the same duration of time ( 5 minutes ) following oral intake of hyoscine-N-butylbromide ( Buscopan ) , a parasympathetic blocker drug .
SUBJECTS AND METHODS : Heart rate and blood pressure of volunteers ( n = 39 , age = 25-40 years ) was recorded following standard procedure .
First , subjects had to sit comfortably in an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on a fairly soft seat placed on the floor keeping head , neck , and trunk erect , eyes closed , and the other muscles reasonably loose .
The subject is directed to inhale through both nostrils slowly up to the maximum for about 4 seconds and then exhale slowly up to the maximum through both nostrils for about 6 seconds .
The breathing must not be abdominal .
These steps complete one cycle of slow pace bhastrika pranayama ( respiratory rate 6/min ) .
During the practice the subject is asked not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ exhalation time , but rather was requested to imagine the open blue sky .
The pranayama was conducted in a cool , well-ventilated room ( 18-20 degrees C ) .
After 5 minutes of this breathing practice , the blood pressure and heart rate again were recorded in the aforesaid manner using the same instrument .
The other group ( n = 10 ) took part in another study where their blood pressure and heart rate were recorded following half an hour of oral intake of hyoscine-N-butylbromide 20 mg. Then they practiced the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the abovementioned parameters were recorded again to study the effect of parasympathetic blockade on the same pranayama .
RESULTS : It was noted that after slow bhastrika pranayamic breathing ( respiratory rate 6/min ) for 5 minutes , both the systolic and diastolic blood pressure decreased significantly with a slight fall in heart rate .
No significant alteration in both blood pressure and heart rate was observed in volunteers who performed the same breathing exercise for the same duration following oral intake of hyoscine-N-butylbromide .
DISCUSSION : Pranayama increases frequency and duration of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ receptors during above tidal volume inhalation as in Hering Bruer reflex , which bring about withdrawal of sympathetic tone in the skeletal muscle blood vessels , leading to widespread vasodilatation , thus causing decrease in peripheral resistance and thus decreasing the diastolic blood pressure .
After hyoscine-N-butylbromide , the parasympathetic blocker , it was observed that blood pressure was not decreased significantly as a result of pranayama , as it was observed when no drug was administered .
CONCLUSIONS : Vagal cardiac and pulmonary mechanisms are linked , and improvement in one vagal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Baroreceptor sensitivity can be enhanced significantly by slow breathing ( supported by a small reduction in the heart rate observed during slow breathing and by reduction in both systolic and diastolic pressure ) .
Slow pace bhastrika pranayama ( respiratory rate 6/min ) exercise thus shows a strong tendency to improving the autonomic nervous system through enhanced activation of the parasympathetic system .

OBJECTIVES: The objective of this study was to evaluate the immediate effect of slow pace bhastrika pranayama (respiratory rate 6/min) for 5 minutes on heart rate and blood pressure and the effect of the same breathing exercise for the same duration of time (5 minutes) following oral intake of hyoscine-N-butylbromide (Buscopan), a parasympathetic blocker drug.
SUBJECTS AND METHODS: Heart rate and blood pressure of volunteers (n = 39, age = 25-40 years) was recorded following standard procedure. First, subjects had to sit comfortably in an easy and steady posture (sukhasana) on a fairly soft seat placed on the floor keeping head, neck, and trunk erect, eyes closed, and the other muscles reasonably loose. The subject is directed to inhale through both nostrils slowly up to the maximum for about 4 seconds and then exhale slowly up to the maximum through both nostrils for about 6 seconds. The breathing must not be abdominal. These steps complete one cycle of slow pace bhastrika pranayama (respiratory rate 6/min). During the practice the subject is asked not to think much about the inhalation and exhalation time, but rather was requested to imagine the open blue sky. The pranayama was conducted in a cool, well-ventilated room (18-20 degrees C). After 5 minutes of this breathing practice, the blood pressure and heart rate again were recorded in the aforesaid manner using the same instrument. The other group (n = 10) took part in another study where their blood pressure and heart rate were recorded following half an hour of oral intake of hyoscine-N-butylbromide 20 mg. Then they practiced the breathing exercise as stated above, and the abovementioned parameters were recorded again to study the effect of parasympathetic blockade on the same pranayama.
RESULTS: It was noted that after slow bhastrika pranayamic breathing (respiratory rate 6/min) for 5 minutes, both the systolic and diastolic blood pressure decreased significantly with a slight fall in heart rate. No significant alteration in both blood pressure and heart rate was observed in volunteers who performed the same breathing exercise for the same duration following oral intake of hyoscine-N-butylbromide.
DISCUSSION: Pranayama increases frequency and duration of inhibitory neural impulses by activating pulmonary stretch receptors during above tidal volume inhalation as in Hering Bruer reflex, which bring about withdrawal of sympathetic tone in the skeletal muscle blood vessels, leading to widespread vasodilatation, thus causing decrease in peripheral resistance and thus decreasing the diastolic blood pressure. After hyoscine-N-butylbromide, the parasympathetic blocker, it was observed that blood pressure was not decreased significantly as a result of pranayama, as it was observed when no drug was administered.
CONCLUSIONS: Vagal cardiac and pulmonary mechanisms are linked, and improvement in one vagal limb might spill over into the other. Baroreceptor sensitivity can be enhanced significantly by slow breathing (supported by a small reduction in the heart rate observed during slow breathing and by reduction in both systolic and diastolic pressure). Slow pace bhastrika pranayama (respiratory rate 6/min) exercise thus shows a strong tendency to improving the autonomic nervous system through enhanced activation of the parasympathetic system.


greenmedinfo--2020-06-24--Regular practice of slow deep breathing exercise may be beneficial to lower blood pressure and to im

Regular practice of slow deep breathing exercise may be beneficial to lower blood pressure and to improve concentration.

Blood pressure in our body is finely regulated through autonomic nervous system and cardiac centers and studies established that parasympathetic dominance exerted by slow deep breathing decreases blood pressure .
Reaction time is an estimate of the subject 's capacity for inhibiting pre-potent motor responses .
Decreased reaction time indicates greater alertness , faster information processing and less distractibility .
Nevertheless , there has been conflicting results about the effect of deep slow breathing on reaction time The present research targeted a community based cross sectional observational study ( n=80 , age=17-70 years ) performed in Lalitpur Municipality , Ward @ @ @ @ @ @ @ June 2019 , to observe the immediate effect of slow deep breathing exercise on blood pressure and reaction time by using online visual reaction time test .
Volunteers performed the slow breathing exercise ( approximately 4seconds inhalation and 6 seconds exhalation ) in Sukhasana for 5 minutes .
Base-line and post-slow-breathing blood pressure and visual reaction time was recorded and compared .
Decrease in systolic and diastolic pressure was recorded in all , but statistically insignificant .
Among the whole study population , significant decrease ( p < 0.001 ) in reaction time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) .
Among male subjects of age-group 17-28 years , and 50-70 years , significant decrease in reaction time was noted ( p < 0.05 ) whereas , among the female subjects of all age groups , reaction time decreased significantly ( p < 0.05 ) .
Decrease in reaction time signifies improved central neuronal processing activity .
This may be due to greater arousal , faster information processing , and ability to ignore or inhibit extraneous stimuli .
Hence , regular practice of slow deep breathing exercise may be beneficial to lower @ @ @ @ @ @ @

Blood pressure in our body is finely regulated through autonomic nervous system and cardiac centers and studies established that parasympathetic dominance exerted by slow deep breathing decreases blood pressure. Reaction time is an estimate of the subject's capacity for inhibiting pre-potent motor responses. Decreased reaction time indicates greater alertness, faster information processing and less distractibility. Nevertheless, there has been conflicting results about the effect of deep slow breathing on reaction time The present research targeted a community based cross sectional observational study (n=80, age=17-70 years) performed in Lalitpur Municipality, Ward number-14, Nepal from May 2019 to June 2019, to observe the immediate effect of slow deep breathing exercise on blood pressure and reaction time by using online visual reaction time test. Volunteers performed the slow breathing exercise (approximately 4seconds inhalation and 6 seconds exhalation) in Sukhasana for 5 minutes. Base-line and post-slow-breathing blood pressure and visual reaction time was recorded and compared. Decrease in systolic and diastolic pressure was recorded in all, but statistically insignificant. Among the whole study population, significant decrease (p<0.001) in reaction time was noted (90.35±13.96 msVs 76.68±9.90 ms). Among male subjects of age-group 17-28 years, and 50-70 years, significant decrease in reaction time was noted (p<0.05) whereas, among the female subjects of all age groups, reaction time decreased significantly (p<0.05). Decrease in reaction time signifies improved central neuronal processing activity. This may be due to greater arousal, faster information processing, and ability to ignore or inhibit extraneous stimuli. Hence, regular practice of slow deep breathing exercise may be beneficial to lower blood pressure and to improve concentration.


greenmedinfo--2020-06-24--Effects of home-based breathing exercises in subjects with COPD.

BACKGROUND : We sought to investigate the effects of home-based breathing exercises on pulmonary function , respiratory muscle strength , exercise capacity , dyspnea , and health-related quality of life in patients with COPD .
METHODS : All randomized , controlled trials involving the use of home-based breathing exercises as an intervention in patients with COPD were searched on PubMed , Embase , Web of Science , EBSCO , CNKI , and Wangfang Data databases from January 1 , 2008 , to December 31 , 2018 .
Two researchers independently extracted data and assessed the quality of the literature that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ A total of 13 studies were included , with a total of 998 subjects .
The intervention methods consisted of diaphragmatic breathing , yoga breathing , breathing gymnastics , and singing .
Meta-analysis showed that , compared with the control group , home-based breathing exercises had significant effects on the percent of predicted FEV ( mean difference = 3.26 , 95 % CI 0.52-5.99 , = .02 ) , FEV/FVC ( mean difference = 2.84 , 95 % CI 1.04-4.64 , = .002 ) , maximum inspiratory pressures ( mean difference = 20.20 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : As an alternative method of home-based pulmonary rehabilitation program , breathing exercises can improve pulmonary function , respiratory muscle strength , exercise capacity , dyspnea , health-related quality of life in patients with COPD .

BACKGROUND: We sought to investigate the effects of home-based breathing exercises on pulmonary function, respiratory muscle strength, exercise capacity, dyspnea, and health-related quality of life in patients with COPD.
METHODS: All randomized, controlled trials involving the use of home-based breathing exercises as an intervention in patients with COPD were searched on PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, EBSCO, CNKI, and Wangfang Data databases from January 1, 2008, to December 31, 2018. Two researchers independently extracted data and assessed the quality of the literature that met the inclusion criteria.
RESULTS: A total of 13 studies were included, with a total of 998 subjects. The intervention methods consisted of diaphragmatic breathing, yoga breathing, breathing gymnastics, and singing. Meta-analysis showed that, compared with the control group, home-based breathing exercises had significant effects on the percent of predicted FEV(mean difference = 3.26, 95% CI 0.52-5.99,= .02), FEV/FVC (mean difference = 2.84, 95% CI 1.04-4.64,= .002), maximum inspiratory pressures (mean difference = 20.20, 95% CI 11.78-28.61,<.001), maximum expiratory pressures (mean difference = 26.35, 95% CI 12.64 to 40.06,<.001), 6-min walk distance (mean difference = 36.97, 95% CI 25.06-48.89,<.001), the modified Medical Research Council dyspnea scale (mean difference= -0.80, 95% CI -1.06 to -0.55,<.001), and the St George Respiratory Questionnaire (mean difference= -8.62, 95% CI -13.09 to -4.16,<.001).
CONCLUSIONS: As an alternative method of home-based pulmonary rehabilitation program, breathing exercises can improve pulmonary function, respiratory muscle strength, exercise capacity, dyspnea, health-related quality of life in patients with COPD.


greenmedinfo--2020-06-24--Qigong for the prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation of COVID-19 infection in older adults.

The elderly are at high risk of contracting respiratory infectious diseases , including COVID-19 infection .
The recent pandemic has @ @ @ @ @ physical and mental damage in older adults .
Similarly to other mind-body exercises in Traditional @ @ @ @ @ regulation of breath rhythm and pattern , body movement and posture , and meditation .
@ @ @ @ @ has the potential to play a role in the prevention , treatment , and rehabilitation @ @ @ @ @ as COVID-19 .
Potential mechanisms of action include stress reduction , emotion regulation , strengthening @ @ @ @ @ of inflammation , and enhanced immune function .
Three forms of Qigong ; abdominal breathing @ @ @ @ @ Liu Zi Jue , all of which are gentle , smooth , and simple for @ @ @ @ @ are recommended in this context .

The elderly are at high risk of contracting respiratory infectious diseases, including COVID-19 infection. The recent pandemic has the potential to cause significant physical and mental damage in older adults. Similarly to other mind-body exercises in Traditional Chinese medicine, Qigong features regulation of breath rhythm and pattern, body movement and posture, and meditation. Given these traits, Qigong has the potential to play a role in the prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation of respiratory infections, such as COVID-19. Potential mechanisms of action include stress reduction, emotion regulation, strengthening of respiratory muscles, reduction of inflammation, and enhanced immune function. Three forms of Qigong; abdominal breathing, Ba Duan Jin and Liu Zi Jue, all of which are gentle, smooth, and simple for the elderly to practice, are recommended in this context.


greenmedinfo--2020-06-24--The results showed that Yi Jin Jing is a promising way to reduce the risk of benign prostatic hyperp

Benign prostatic hyperplasia and its associated lower urinary tract symptoms seriously affect both the physical and mental health of older @ @ @ @ @ determine the efficiency of Chinese Qigong Yi Jin Jing on prostate health in older individuals @ @ @ @ @ into either an Yi Jin Jing group ( n = 15 ) or a control @ @ @ @ @ ) .
After the 6-month intervention , the Yi Jin Jing group showed a significant @ @ @ @ @ score and a significant increase in maximal urinary flow rate ( compared with the control @ @ @ @ @ p = .001 , respectively ) .
Also , testosterone level increased and estrogen/testosterone ratio @ @ @ @ @ Jing group ( compared with the baseline p = .004 , p = .002 , @ @ @ @ @ and estrogen/testosterone ratio were lower in the Yi Jin Jing group ( compared with the @ @ @ @ @ , p = .012 , respectively ) .
The results showed that Yi Jin Jing @ @ @ @ @ reduce the risk of benign prostatic hyperplasia-lower urinary tract symptoms in older men .

Benign prostatic hyperplasia and its associated lower urinary tract symptoms seriously affect both the physical and mental health of older men. In order to determine the efficiency of Chinese Qigong Yi Jin Jing on prostate health in older individuals, thirty participants were randomized into either an Yi Jin Jing group (n = 15) or a control group (n = 15). After the 6-month intervention, the Yi Jin Jing group showed a significant decrease in international prostate symptom score and a significant increase in maximal urinary flow rate (compared with the control group p = .005, p = .001, respectively). Also, testosterone level increased and estrogen/testosterone ratio decreased in the Yi Jin Jing group (compared with the baseline p = .004, p = .002, respectively); estrogen level and estrogen/testosterone ratio were lower in the Yi Jin Jing group (compared with the control group p = .029, p = .012, respectively). The results showed that Yi Jin Jing is a promising way to reduce the risk of benign prostatic hyperplasia-lower urinary tract symptoms in older men.


greenmedinfo--2020-06-24--Ba-Duan-Jin alleviates pain and fibromyalgia-related symptoms in patients with fibromyalgia.

OBJECTIVES : Fibromyalgia is a chronic debilitating pain syndrome .
There has been growing interest in the development of non-pharmacological therapies .
Ba-Duan-Jin is an ancient Chinese exercise for health promotion , yet easy to learn .
The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of Ba-Duan-Jin in managing fibromyalgia symptoms experienced by Chinese patients .
METHODS : In this randomised , usual therapy-controlled study , patients with fibromyalgia practiced Ba-Duan-Jin for one hour , twice a week for 12 weeks .
The primary outcome measure was change in the Visual Analogue Scale for pain ( pain VAS @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Impact Questionnaire ( FIQ ) , the Multidimensional Assessment of Fatigue ( MAF ) , the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index ( PSQI ) , the Beck Depression Inventory ( BDI ) , the Perceived Stress Scale ( PSS ) , and the Tender Point Count ( TPC ) .
These measures were assessed at baseline and after 4 , 8 , and 12 weeks .
The Patient Global Impression of Change ( PGIC ) was collected at week 12 .
The Mann-Whitney U-test was performed using the intention-to-treat population .
RESULTS : A @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the Ba-Duan-Jin or the control groups .
For the Ba-Duan-Jin group , significant improvement in pain VAS , FIQ , MAF , PSQI , and TPC were documented at weeks 4 ( p≤0.046 ) and continued at week 8 ( p≤0.003 ) .
At week 12 , all of the outcome measures including BDI and PSS exhibited significant improvement ( p≤0.004 ) , and PGIC ratings were significantly better ( p < 0.001 ) .
No significant changes in the control group were observed .
CONCLUSIONS : This study suggests that Ba-Duan-Jin @ @ @ @ @ @ @ valuable non-pharmacological intervention among Chinese fibromyalgia patients .

OBJECTIVES: Fibromyalgia is a chronic debilitating pain syndrome. There has been growing interest in the development of non-pharmacological therapies. Ba-Duan-Jin is an ancient Chinese exercise for health promotion, yet easy to learn. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of Ba-Duan-Jin in managing fibromyalgia symptoms experienced by Chinese patients.
METHODS: In this randomised, usual therapy-controlled study, patients with fibromyalgia practiced Ba-Duan-Jin for one hour, twice a week for 12 weeks. The primary outcome measure was change in the Visual Analogue Scale for pain (pain VAS). Secondary outcomes included the Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQ), the Multidimensional Assessment of Fatigue (MAF), the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), and the Tender Point Count (TPC). These measures were assessed at baseline and after 4, 8, and 12 weeks. The Patient Global Impression of Change (PGIC) was collected at week 12. The Mann-Whitney U-test was performed using the intention-to-treat population.
RESULTS: A total of 62 fibromyalgia patients were randomised to the Ba-Duan-Jin or the control groups. For the Ba-Duan-Jin group, significant improvement in pain VAS, FIQ, MAF, PSQI, and TPC were documented at weeks 4 (p≤0.046) and continued at week 8 (p≤0.003). At week 12, all of the outcome measures including BDI and PSS exhibited significant improvement (p≤0.004), and PGIC ratings were significantly better (p<0.001). No significant changes in the control group were observed.
CONCLUSIONS: This study suggests that Ba-Duan-Jin exercise has the potential to be a valuable non-pharmacological intervention among Chinese fibromyalgia patients.


greenmedinfo--2020-06-24--The therapeutic efficacy of Qigong exercise on the main symptoms of fibromyalgia.

Background : Some of the most debilitating symptoms of fibromyalgia ( FM ) include widespread chronic pain , sleep disturbances , chronic fatigue , anxiety , and depression .
Yet , there is a lack of effective self-management exercise interventions capable of alleviating FM symptoms .
The objective of this study is to examine the efficacy of a 10-week daily Qigong , a mind-body intervention program , on FM symptoms .
Methods : 20 participants with FM were randomly assigned to Qigong ( experimental ) or sham-Qigong ( control ) groups , with participants blinded to the intervention allocation .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ synchronized with deep diaphragmatic breathing and meditation .
The sham-Qigong group practiced only mild body movements .
Both groups practiced the interventions two times per day at home , plus one weekly group practice session with a Qigong instructor .
Primary outcomes were : pain changes measured by the Short-Form McGill Pain Questionnaire , a visual analog scale for pain , pressure pain threshold measured by a dolorimeter .
Secondary outcomes were : the Revised Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index , the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale and the Quality @ @ @ @ @ @ @ experimental group experienced greater clinical improvements when compared to the control group on the mean score differences of pain , sleep quality , chronic fatigue , anxiety , depression , and fibromyalgia impact , all being statistically significant at Conclusion : Daily practice of Qigong appears to have a positive impact on the main fibromyalgia symptoms that is beyond group interaction .

Background: Some of the most debilitating symptoms of fibromyalgia (FM) include widespread chronic pain, sleep disturbances, chronic fatigue, anxiety, and depression. Yet, there is a lack of effective self-management exercise interventions capable of alleviating FM symptoms. The objective of this study is to examine the efficacy of a 10-week daily Qigong, a mind-body intervention program, on FM symptoms.
Methods: 20 participants with FM were randomly assigned to Qigong (experimental) or sham-Qigong (control) groups, with participants blinded to the intervention allocation. The Qigong group practiced mild body movements synchronized with deep diaphragmatic breathing and meditation. The sham-Qigong group practiced only mild body movements. Both groups practiced the interventions two times per day at home, plus one weekly group practice session with a Qigong instructor. Primary outcomes were: pain changes measured by the Short-Form McGill Pain Questionnaire, a visual analog scale for pain, pressure pain threshold measured by a dolorimeter. Secondary outcomes were: the Revised Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale and the Quality of Life Scale.
Results: The experimental group experienced greater clinical improvements when compared to the control group on the mean score differences of pain, sleep quality, chronic fatigue, anxiety, depression, and fibromyalgia impact, all being statistically significant at < 0.05.
Conclusion: Daily practice of Qigong appears to have a positive impact on the main fibromyalgia symptoms that is beyond group interaction.
Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03441997.


greenmedinfo--2020-06-25--Grapefruit juice enhances the systolic blood pressure-lowering effects of dietary nitrate-containing

Grapefruit juice enhances the systolic blood pressure-lowering effects of dietary nitrate-containing beetroot juice.

INTRODUCTION : Dietary nitrate from sources such as beetroot juice lowers blood pressure ( BP ) via the nitrate-nitrite-nitric oxide ( NO ) pathway .
However , NO and nitrite are inactivated via re-oxidation to nitrate , potentially limiting their activity .
Cytochrome P450-3A4 inhibition with troleandomycin prevents nitrite re-oxidation to nitrate in rodent liver .
Grapefruit juice contains the CYP3A4 inhibitor furanocoumarin .
We therefore hypothesized that grapefruit juice would enhance BP-lowering with beetroot juice by maintaining circulating [ nitrite ] .
METHODS : We performed a randomized , placebo-controlled , 7-hour crossover study in 11 healthy volunteers , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a 70ml-shot of active beetroot juice ( Beet-It® ) and either ( i ) 250 ml grapefruit juice ( `` Active Beet+GFJ '' ) , or ( ii ) 250 ml water ( Buxton® , '' Active Beet+HO '' ) ; or ( iii ) Placebo Beet+GFJ .
RESULTS : The addition of grapefruit juice to active beetroot juice lowered systolic BP ( SBP ) : Active Beet+GFJ versus Active Beet+HO ( P=0.02 ) , and pulse pressure , PP ( P=0.0003 ) .
Peak mean differences in SBP and PP were seen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ % CI -6.43 to -0.15 ) and at T=2.5 hours : -4.2 mmHg ( 95 % CI -0.3 to -8.2 ) , respectively .
Contrary to the hypothesis , plasma [ nitrite ] was lower with Active Beet+GFJ versus Active Beet+HO ( P=0.006 ) , as was salivary nitrite production ( P=0.002 ) and saliva volume ( -0.34 ml/min ( 95 % CI -0.05 to -0.68 ) ) .
The taste score of Beet+GFJ was 1.4/10 points higher than Beet+HO ( P=0.03 ) .
CONCLUSIONS : Grapefruit juice enhanced beetroot juice 's effect @ @ @ @ @ @ @ plasma [ nitrite ] .
Besides suggesting more complex mechanisms , there is potential for maximising the clinical benefit of dietary nitrate and targeting isolated systolic hypertension .

INTRODUCTION: Dietary nitrate from sources such as beetroot juice lowers blood pressure (BP) via the nitrate-nitrite-nitric oxide (NO) pathway. However, NO and nitrite are inactivated via re-oxidation to nitrate, potentially limiting their activity. Cytochrome P450-3A4 inhibition with troleandomycin prevents nitrite re-oxidation to nitrate in rodent liver. Grapefruit juice contains the CYP3A4 inhibitor furanocoumarin. We therefore hypothesized that grapefruit juice would enhance BP-lowering with beetroot juice by maintaining circulating [nitrite].
METHODS: We performed a randomized, placebo-controlled, 7-hour crossover study in 11 healthy volunteers, attending on 3 occasions, receiving: a 70ml-shot of active beetroot juice (Beet-It®) and either (i) 250 ml grapefruit juice ("Active Beet+GFJ"), or (ii) 250 ml water (Buxton®,"Active Beet+HO"); or (iii) Placebo Beet+GFJ.
RESULTS: The addition of grapefruit juice to active beetroot juice lowered systolic BP (SBP): Active Beet+GFJ versus Active Beet+HO (P=0.02), and pulse pressure, PP (P=0.0003). Peak mean differences in SBP and PP were seen at T=5 hours: -3.3mmHg (95% CI -6.43 to -0.15) and at T=2.5 hours: -4.2 mmHg (95% CI -0.3 to -8.2), respectively. Contrary to the hypothesis, plasma [nitrite] was lower with Active Beet+GFJ versus Active Beet+HO (P=0.006), as was salivary nitrite production (P=0.002) and saliva volume (-0.34 ml/min (95% CI -0.05 to -0.68)). The taste score of Beet+GFJ was 1.4/10 points higher than Beet+HO (P=0.03).
CONCLUSIONS: Grapefruit juice enhanced beetroot juice's effect on lowering SBP and PP despite decreasing plasma [nitrite]. Besides suggesting more complex mechanisms, there is potential for maximising the clinical benefit of dietary nitrate and targeting isolated systolic hypertension.


greenmedinfo--2020-06-25--Consumption of flavonoid-rich fruits and risk of coronary heart disease.

Although the association between fruit consumption and coronary heart disease ( CHD ) risk was well studied , few studies have focused on flavonoid-rich fruits ( FRFs ) , in particular strawberries and grapes .
We aimed to verify the association of total and specific FRF consumption with risk of CHD by a large prospective cohort study .
A total of 87,177 men and women aged 44-75 who were free of cardiovascular disease and cancer at study baseline were eligible for the present analysis .
FRF consumption was assessed using a food frequency questionnaire .
Cox proportional hazards regression models @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of CHD in relation to FRF consumption with adjustment for potential risk factors and confounders .
During a mean follow-up of 13.2 years , we identified 1156 incident CHD cases .
After fully adjustment for covariates including demographics , lifestyles , and dietary factors , the HRs were 0.93 ( 95 % CI : 0.77 , 1.11 ) , 0.91 ( 95 % CI : 0.75 , 1.11 ) , 0.84 ( 95 % CI : 0.67 , 1.04 ) , and 0.78 ( 95 % CI : 0.62 , 0.99 ) for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and fifth quintiles compared with lowest quintile of FRF consumption .
Regarding specific fruits , we observed a significant inverse association for citrus fruit consumption and a borderline inverse association for strawberry consumption , while no association was observed for apple/pear , or grape consumption .
Although the associations appeared to be stronger in women , they were not significantly modified by sex .
Higher consumption of FRFs , in particular , citrus fruits , may be associated with a lower risk of developing CHD .

Although the association between fruit consumption and coronary heart disease (CHD) risk was well studied, few studies have focused on flavonoid-rich fruits (FRFs), in particular strawberries and grapes. We aimed to verify the association of total and specific FRF consumption with risk of CHD by a large prospective cohort study. A total of 87,177 men and women aged 44-75 who were free of cardiovascular disease and cancer at study baseline were eligible for the present analysis. FRF consumption was assessed using a food frequency questionnaire. Cox proportional hazards regression models were used to estimate the hazard ratios of CHD in relation to FRF consumption with adjustment for potential risk factors and confounders. During a mean follow-up of 13.2 years, we identified 1156 incident CHD cases. After fully adjustment for covariates including demographics, lifestyles, and dietary factors, the HRs were 0.93 (95% CI: 0.77, 1.11), 0.91 (95% CI: 0.75, 1.11), 0.84 (95% CI: 0.67, 1.04), and 0.78 (95% CI: 0.62, 0.99) for the second, third, fourth, and fifth quintiles compared with lowest quintile of FRF consumption. Regarding specific fruits, we observed a significant inverse association for citrus fruit consumption and a borderline inverse association for strawberry consumption, while no association was observed for apple/pear, or grape consumption. Although the associations appeared to be stronger in women, they were not significantly modified by sex. Higher consumption of FRFs, in particular, citrus fruits, may be associated with a lower risk of developing CHD.


greenmedinfo--2020-06-25--Ursolic acid possessed a cholesterol-lowering activity and could favorably modulate the gut microbio

Ursolic acid possessed a cholesterol-lowering activity and could favorably modulate the gut microbiota.

Ursolic acid ( UA ) is a triterpenoid acid widely abundant in fruits and vegetables such as apple , blueberry @ @ @ @ @ study was carried out to investigate the effect of UA supplementation in diet on blood @ @ @ @ @ and gut microbiota in hypercholesterolemic hamsters .
A total of thirty-two hamsters were randomly assigned @ @ @ @ @ a non-cholesterol diet ( NCD ) , a high-cholesterol diet containing 0.1 % cholesterol ( @ @ @ @ @ diet containing 0.2 % UA ( UAL ) , or an HCD diet containing 0.4 @ @ @ @ @ for 6 weeks .
Results showed that UA supplementation reduced plasma cholesterol by 15-16 % @ @ @ @ @ by 2.6-9.2 % .
The in vitro micellar cholesterol solubility experiment clearly demonstrated that UA @ @ @ @ @ from micelles .
In addition , UA decreased the ratio of Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes , @ @ @ @ @ of short chain fatty acid ( SCFA ) -producing bacteria in the intestine .
In @ @ @ @ @ cholesterol-lowering activity and could favorably modulate the gut microbiota .

Ursolic acid (UA) is a triterpenoid acid widely abundant in fruits and vegetables such as apple, blueberry and cranberry. The present study was carried out to investigate the effect of UA supplementation in diet on blood cholesterol, intestinal cholesterol absorption and gut microbiota in hypercholesterolemic hamsters. A total of thirty-two hamsters were randomly assigned to four groups and given a non-cholesterol diet (NCD), a high-cholesterol diet containing 0.1% cholesterol (HCD), an HCD diet containing 0.2% UA (UAL), or an HCD diet containing 0.4% UA (UAH) for 6 weeks. Results showed that UA supplementation reduced plasma cholesterol by 15-16% and inhibited intestinal cholesterol absorption by 2.6-9.2%. The in vitro micellar cholesterol solubility experiment clearly demonstrated that UA could displace 40% cholesterol from micelles. In addition, UA decreased the ratio of Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes, whereas it enhanced the growth of short chain fatty acid (SCFA)-producing bacteria in the intestine. In conclusion, UA possessed a cholesterol-lowering activity and could favorably modulate the gut microbiota.


greenmedinfo--2020-06-25--Walnut green husk polysaccharide may act as a functional polysaccharide for protecting liver and car

Walnut green husk polysaccharide may act as a functional polysaccharide for protecting liver and cardiovascular system in high fructose-fed diets.

This study aimed to investigate the protective effects of walnut green husk polysaccharide ( WGHP ) on liver injury , @ @ @ @ @ of gut microbiota in mice induced by high fructose ( HF ) diet .
The @ @ @ @ @ the walnut green husk polysaccharide is a low molecular weight acidic heteropolysaccharide , composed mainly @ @ @ @ @ and galactose .
Biochemical analysis showed that WGHP significantly improved glucose metabolism and lipid metabolism @ @ @ @ @ HF-diet induced obesity mice .
Histopathological observation of liver and cardiovascular aorta confirmed the protective @ @ @ @ @ steatosis and vascular endothelial dysfunction .
Furthermore , 16S rRNA sequencing results demonstrated that WGHP @ @ @ @ @ microbiota caused by HF , decreased the relative abundance of Verrucomicrobia and increased the relative @ @ @ @ @ phylum level , decreased the relative abundance of Akkermansia , Lachnoclostridium and norank_f__Muribaculaceae and increased @ @ @ @ @ , Helicobacter , Alloprevotella and Allobaculum at the genus levels .
Our results indicate that @ @ @ @ @ functional polysaccharide for protecting liver and cardiovascular in HF-fed mice .

This study aimed to investigate the protective effects of walnut green husk polysaccharide (WGHP) on liver injury, vascular endothelial dysfunction and disorder of gut microbiota in mice induced by high fructose (HF) diet. The chemical analysis results show that the walnut green husk polysaccharide is a low molecular weight acidic heteropolysaccharide, composed mainly of glucuronic acid, arabinose and galactose. Biochemical analysis showed that WGHP significantly improved glucose metabolism and lipid metabolism and decreased oxidative stress in HF-diet induced obesity mice. Histopathological observation of liver and cardiovascular aorta confirmed the protective effects of WGHP on hepatic steatosis and vascular endothelial dysfunction. Furthermore, 16S rRNA sequencing results demonstrated that WGHP reversed the disorders of gut microbiota caused by HF, decreased the relative abundance of Verrucomicrobia and increased the relative abundance of Deferribacteres at the phylum level, decreased the relative abundance of Akkermansia, Lachnoclostridium and norank_f__Muribaculaceae and increased the relative abundance of Prevotellaceae_UCG-001, Helicobacter, Alloprevotella and Allobaculum at the genus levels. Our results indicate that WGHP may act as a functional polysaccharide for protecting liver and cardiovascular in HF-fed mice.


greenmedinfo--2020-06-25--A western diet is associated with perturbation of cholesterol homeostasis in middle aged rats, mostl

A western diet is associated with perturbation of cholesterol homeostasis in middle aged rats, mostly in hippocampus.

SCOPE : Cholesterol homeostasis is crucial for brain functioning .
Unhealthy nutrition can influence cerebral physiology , but the effect of western diets on brain cholesterol homeostasis , particularly at middle age , is unknown .
Given the link between brain cholesterol alteration and beta amyloid production , our aim was to evaluate whether a short-term diet , rich in fat and fructose , affects the protein network implicated in cholesterol synthesis and shuttling between glial cells and neurons , as well as crucial markers beta amyloid metabolism .
METHODS AND RESULTS : Middle aged rats ( 11-months old ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) or a control diet for 4 weeks .
Inflammatory markers and cholesterol levels significantly increased in hippocampus of HFF rats .
A higher activation of 3 hydroxy 3-methylglutaryl Coenzyme-A reductase , coupled with lower levels of Apolipoprotein E , LXR-beta , LDL-R and LRP-1 receptors was measured in hippocampus from HFF rats .
The alteration of critical players of cholesterol homeostasis was associated with increased level of amyloid precursor protein , presenilin 1 , and Nicastrin , and decreased level of insulin degrading enzyme .
CONCLUSIONS : Overall these data show that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of cholesterol homeostasis in middle aged rats , mostly in hippocampus .
This might prime molecular events involved in the onset of neurodegenerative diseases .
This article is protected by copyright .
All rights reserved .

SCOPE: Cholesterol homeostasis is crucial for brain functioning. Unhealthy nutrition can influence cerebral physiology, but the effect of western diets on brain cholesterol homeostasis, particularly at middle age, is unknown. Given the link between brain cholesterol alteration and beta amyloid production, our aim was to evaluate whether a short-term diet, rich in fat and fructose, affects the protein network implicated in cholesterol synthesis and shuttling between glial cells and neurons, as well as crucial markers beta amyloid metabolism.
METHODS AND RESULTS: Middle aged rats (11-months old) were fed a high-fat high-fructose (HFF) or a control diet for 4 weeks. Inflammatory markers and cholesterol levels significantly increased in hippocampus of HFF rats. A higher activation of 3 hydroxy 3-methylglutaryl Coenzyme-A reductase, coupled with lower levels of Apolipoprotein E, LXR-beta, LDL-R and LRP-1 receptors was measured in hippocampus from HFF rats. The alteration of critical players of cholesterol homeostasis was associated with increased level of amyloid precursor protein, presenilin 1, and Nicastrin, and decreased level of insulin degrading enzyme.
CONCLUSIONS: Overall these data show that a western diet is associated with perturbation of cholesterol homeostasis in middle aged rats, mostly in hippocampus. This might prime molecular events involved in the onset of neurodegenerative diseases. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.


greenmedinfo--2020-06-25--Phloretin may prove beneficial as a promising drug candidate for gastric cancer treatment.

PURPOSE : Studies have shown that Phloretin exerts anticancer effects on several types of cancer cells .
Nonetheless , the anticancer effects of Phloretin have not been fully explored against the human gastric cancer cells .
Therefore , this study was undertaken to evaluate the anticancer effects of Phloretin against the human gastric cancer cells .
METHODS : Cell proliferation was evaluated by WST-1 assay while cell cycle analysis was carried out by flow cytometry .
The effects on cell migration and invasion were evaluated by wound healing assay and transwell assays , respectively .
Electron microscopy and western blot @ @ @ @ @ @ @ autophagy and ERK1/2/MAPK signalling pathway .
RESULTS : The results showed that Phloretin inhibited the proliferation rate of the human SNU-1 gastric cancer cells and showed an IC50 of 18µM .
However , Phloretin showed very high IC50 ( 80 µM ) against the normal GES-1 normal gastric cells .
Electron microscopy showed that Phloretin triggered autophagy in the SNU-1 gastric cancer cells which was accompanied by enhancement in the expression of LC3B II and Beclin 1 .
Cell cycle analysis showed that Phloretin caused accumulation of the SNU-1 cells in the G0/G1 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cell cycle arrest .
The G0/G1 arrest of SNU-1 cells was also associated with depletion of cyclin D1 and D2 expression .
Wound healing and transwell assays showed that Phloretin suppressed the migration of the SNU-1 gastric cancer cells , suggestive of the anti-metastatic potential of this molecule .
Finally , this molecule also blocked the ERK1/2/MAPK signalling pathway in SNU-1 cells in a concentration-dependent manner .
CONCLUSIONS : Phloretin may prove beneficial as a promising drug candidate for gastric cancer treatment provided further studies are carried out on it , especially toxicological @ @

PURPOSE: Studies have shown that Phloretin exerts anticancer effects on several types of cancer cells. Nonetheless, the anticancer effects of Phloretin have not been fully explored against the human gastric cancer cells. Therefore, this study was undertaken to evaluate the anticancer effects of Phloretin against the human gastric cancer cells.
METHODS: Cell proliferation was evaluated by WST-1 assay while cell cycle analysis was carried out by flow cytometry. The effects on cell migration and invasion were evaluated by wound healing assay and transwell assays, respectively. Electron microscopy and western blot methods were used to study effects on autophagy and ERK1/2/MAPK signalling pathway.
RESULTS: The results showed that Phloretin inhibited the proliferation rate of the human SNU-1 gastric cancer cells and showed an IC50 of 18µM. However, Phloretin showed very high IC50 (80 µM) against the normal GES-1 normal gastric cells. Electron microscopy showed that Phloretin triggered autophagy in the SNU-1 gastric cancer cells which was accompanied by enhancement in the expression of LC3B II and Beclin 1. Cell cycle analysis showed that Phloretin caused accumulation of the SNU-1 cells in the G0/G1 phase of the cell cycle triggering G0/G1 cell cycle arrest. The G0/G1 arrest of SNU-1 cells was also associated with depletion of cyclin D1 and D2 expression. Wound healing and transwell assays showed that Phloretin suppressed the migration of the SNU-1 gastric cancer cells, suggestive of the anti-metastatic potential of this molecule. Finally, this molecule also blocked the ERK1/2/MAPK signalling pathway in SNU-1 cells in a concentration-dependent manner.
CONCLUSIONS: Phloretin may prove beneficial as a promising drug candidate for gastric cancer treatment provided further studies are carried out on it, especially toxicological studies.


greenmedinfo--2020-06-25--Phloretin exhibits significant growth inhibitory effects on the human oral cancer cells.

PURPOSE : Phloretin is one of the important polyphenolics abundantly present across the plant kingdom .
Studies have reported the anticancer effects of Phloretin against different human cancer cells .
Nonetheless , the anticancer effects of Phloretin have not been explored against the human oral cancer cells .
Therefore this study was designed to investigate the anticancer effects of Phloretin against the human oral cancer cells .
METHODS : CCK-8 assay was used for the determination of cell viability .
Annexin V/propidium iodide ( PI ) staining and flow cytometry were used for necrosis detection and cell cycle analysis , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for cell migration analysis .
Western blot analysis was used for protein expression analysis .
RESULTS : The results showed that Phloretin suppressed the proliferation rate of the human SCC-1 oral cancer cells and showed an IC50 of 12.5µM .
Nonetheless , Phloretin had negligible effects on the proliferation rate of the EBTr normal oral cells .
DAPI staining showed that Phloretin did not induce apoptosis and western blot showed that it had no apparent effects on the Bax and Bcl-2 expression .
Nonetheless annexin V/PI staining showed that Phloretin caused cell death @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cytometric analysis showed that Phloretin caused increase in the reactive oxygen species ( ROS ) levels of the SCC-1 cells in a time and dose-dependent manner .
Cell cycle analysis showed that Phloretin caused increase in the percentage of the SCC-1 cells in the G0/G1 phase of the cell cycle leading to G0/G1 cell cycle arrest .
The G0/G1 arrest of SCC-1 cells was also associated with depletion of cyclin D1 , CDK4 and CDK6 expression .
Wound healing assay was also performed which showed that Phloretin suppressed the migration of the SCC-1 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ anti-metastatic potential of Phloretin .
CONCLUSION : Phloretin exhibits significant growth inhibitory effects on the human oral cancer cells and may prove beneficial in oral cancer treatment .

PURPOSE: Phloretin is one of the important polyphenolics abundantly present across the plant kingdom. Studies have reported the anticancer effects of Phloretin against different human cancer cells. Nonetheless, the anticancer effects of Phloretin have not been explored against the human oral cancer cells. Therefore this study was designed to investigate the anticancer effects of Phloretin against the human oral cancer cells.
METHODS: CCK-8 assay was used for the determination of cell viability. Annexin V/propidium iodide (PI) staining and flow cytometry were used for necrosis detection and cell cycle analysis, respectively. Wound healing assay was used for cell migration analysis. Western blot analysis was used for protein expression analysis.
RESULTS: The results showed that Phloretin suppressed the proliferation rate of the human SCC-1 oral cancer cells and showed an IC50 of 12.5µM. Nonetheless, Phloretin had negligible effects on the proliferation rate of the EBTr normal oral cells. DAPI staining showed that Phloretin did not induce apoptosis and western blot showed that it had no apparent effects on the Bax and Bcl-2 expression. Nonetheless annexin V/PI staining showed that Phloretin caused cell death in SCC-1 oral cancer cells. Flow cytometric analysis showed that Phloretin caused increase in the reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels of the SCC-1 cells in a time and dose-dependent manner. Cell cycle analysis showed that Phloretin caused increase in the percentage of the SCC-1 cells in the G0/G1 phase of the cell cycle leading to G0/G1 cell cycle arrest. The G0/G1 arrest of SCC-1 cells was also associated with depletion of cyclin D1, CDK4 and CDK6 expression. Wound healing assay was also performed which showed that Phloretin suppressed the migration of the SCC-1 oral cancer cells, indicative of the anti-metastatic potential of Phloretin.
CONCLUSION: Phloretin exhibits significant growth inhibitory effects on the human oral cancer cells and may prove beneficial in oral cancer treatment.


greenmedinfo--2020-06-25--Phloretin has the potential to be utilized as an alternative therapeutic agent for treating atopic d

Phloretin has the potential to be utilized as an alternative therapeutic agent for treating atopic dermatitis.

Atopic dermatitis ( AD ) is a chronic inflammatory disease of the skin that substantially affects a patient 's quality of life .
While steroids are the most common therapy used to temporally alleviate the symptoms of AD , effective and nontoxic alternatives are urgently needed .
In this study , we utilized a natural , plant-derived phenolic compound , phloretin , to treat allergic contact dermatitis ( ACD ) on the dorsal skin of mice .
In addition , the effectiveness of phloretin was evaluated using a mouse model of ACD triggered by 2,4-dinitrochlorobenzene ( DNCB ) .
In @ @ @ @ @ @ @ administered to BALB/c mice for 21 consecutive days , and then , the lesions were examined histologically .
Our data revealed that phloretin reduced the process of epidermal thickening and decreased the infiltration of mast cells into the lesion regions , subsequently reducing the levels of histamine and the pro-inflammatory cytokines interleukin ( IL ) -6 , IL-4 , thymic stromal lymphopoietin ( TSLP ) , interferon-γ ( IFN-γ ) and IL-17A in the serum .
These changes were associated with lower serum levels after phloretin treatment .
In addition , we observed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) and NF-κB pathways in the dermal tissues of the phloretin-treated rodents were suppressed compared to thosein the AD-like skin regions .
Furthermore , phloretin appeared to limit the overproliferation of splenocytes in response to DNCB stimulation , reducing the number of IFN-γ- , IL-4- , and IL-17A-producing CD4T cells in the spleen back to their normal ranges .
Taken together , we discovered a new therapeutic role of phloretin using a mouse model of DNCB-induced ACD , as shown by the alleviated AD-like symptoms and the reversed immunopathological effects .
Therefore , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to be utilized as an alternative therapeutic agent for treating AD .

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory disease of the skin that substantially affects a patient's quality of life. While steroids are the most common therapy used to temporally alleviate the symptoms of AD, effective and nontoxic alternatives are urgently needed. In this study, we utilized a natural, plant-derived phenolic compound, phloretin, to treat allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) on the dorsal skin of mice. In addition, the effectiveness of phloretin was evaluated using a mouse model of ACD triggered by 2,4-dinitrochlorobenzene (DNCB). In our experimental setting, phloretin was orally administered to BALB/c mice for 21 consecutive days, and then, the lesions were examined histologically. Our data revealed that phloretin reduced the process of epidermal thickening and decreased the infiltration of mast cells into the lesion regions, subsequently reducing the levels of histamine and the pro-inflammatory cytokines interleukin (IL)-6, IL-4, thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP), interferon-γ (IFN-γ) and IL-17A in the serum. These changes were associated with lower serum levels after phloretin treatment. In addition, we observed that the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and NF-κB pathways in the dermal tissues of the phloretin-treated rodents were suppressed compared to thosein the AD-like skin regions. Furthermore, phloretin appeared to limit the overproliferation of splenocytes in response to DNCB stimulation, reducing the number of IFN-γ-, IL-4-, and IL-17A-producing CD4T cells in the spleen back to their normal ranges. Taken together, we discovered a new therapeutic role of phloretin using a mouse model of DNCB-induced ACD, as shown by the alleviated AD-like symptoms and the reversed immunopathological effects. Therefore, we believe that phloretin has the potential to be utilized as an alternative therapeutic agent for treating AD.


greenmedinfo--2020-06-25--Lemon balm extract may inhibit obesity and improve insulin sensitivity.

Our previous studies demonstrated that peroxisome proliferator-activated receptorα ( PPARα ) activation reduces weight gain and improves insulin sensitivity in obese mice .
Since excess lipid accumulation in non-adipose tissues is suggested to be responsible for the development of insulin resistance , this study was undertaken to examine whether the lemon balm extract ALS-L1023 regulates hepatic lipid accumulation , obesity , and insulin resistance and to determine whether its mechanism of action involves PPARα .
Administration of ALS-L1023 to high-fat-diet-induced obese mice caused reductions in body weight gain , visceral fat mass , and visceral adipocyte size without changesof food @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hyperinsulinemia , glucose and insulin tolerance , and normalized insulin-positive β-cell area in obese mice .
ALS-L1023 decreased hepatic lipid accumulation and concomitantly increased the expression of PPARα target genes responsible for fatty acid β-oxidation in livers .
In accordance with the in vivo data , ALS-L1023 reduced lipid accumulation and stimulated PPARα reporter gene expression in HepG2 cells .
These effects of ALS-L1023 were comparable to those of the PPARα ligand fenofibrate , while the PPARα antagonist GW6471 inhibited the actions of ALS-L1023 on lipid accumulation and PPARα luciferase activity in HepG2 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( pAkt ) /Akt ratios and lower expression of gluconeogenesis genes were observed in the livers of ALS-L1023-treated mice .
These results indicate that ALS-L1023 may inhibit obesity and improve insulin sensitivity in part through inhibition of hepatic lipid accumulation via hepatic PPARα activation .

Our previous studies demonstrated that peroxisome proliferator-activated receptorα (PPARα) activation reduces weight gain and improves insulin sensitivity in obese mice. Since excess lipid accumulation in non-adipose tissues is suggested to be responsible for the development of insulin resistance, this study was undertaken to examine whether the lemon balm extract ALS-L1023 regulates hepatic lipid accumulation, obesity, and insulin resistance and to determine whether its mechanism of action involves PPARα. Administration of ALS-L1023 to high-fat-diet-induced obese mice caused reductions in body weight gain, visceral fat mass, and visceral adipocyte size without changesof food consumption profiles. ALS-L1023 improved hyperglycemia, hyperinsulinemia, glucose and insulin tolerance, and normalized insulin-positive β-cell area in obese mice. ALS-L1023 decreased hepatic lipid accumulation and concomitantly increased the expression of PPARα target genes responsible for fatty acid β-oxidation in livers. In accordance with the in vivo data, ALS-L1023 reduced lipid accumulation and stimulated PPARα reporter gene expression in HepG2 cells. These effects of ALS-L1023 were comparable to those of the PPARα ligand fenofibrate, while the PPARα antagonist GW6471 inhibited the actions of ALS-L1023 on lipid accumulation and PPARα luciferase activity in HepG2 cells. Higher phosphorylated protein kinase B (pAkt)/Akt ratios and lower expression of gluconeogenesis genes were observed in the livers of ALS-L1023-treated mice. These results indicate that ALS-L1023 may inhibit obesity and improve insulin sensitivity in part through inhibition of hepatic lipid accumulation via hepatic PPARα activation.


greenmedinfo--2020-06-25--Lemon balm and dandelion leaf extract synergistically alleviate ethanol-induced hepatotoxicity.

We investigated the effect of a 2:1 ( w/w ) mixture of lemon balm and dandelion extracts ( LD ) on ethanol ( EtOH ) -mediated liver injury and explored the underlying mechanisms .
Administration of LD synergistically reduced relative liver weight and decreased the levels of serum biomarkers of hepatic injury .
Histopathological and biochemical analyses indicated that LD synergistically attenuated hepatic accumulation of triacylglycerides ( TGs ) and restored the levels of mRNAs related to fatty acid metabolism .
In addition , LD significantly reduced EtOH-induced hepatic oxidative stress by attenuating the reduction in levels of nuclear factor @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and enhancing antioxidant activity .
Moreover , LD decreased the EtOH-mediated increase in levels of hepatic tumor necrosis factor-α ( TNF-α ) mRNA .
In vitro , LD significantly scavenged free radicals , increased cell viability against tert-butylhydroperoxide ( tBHP ) , and transactivated Nrf2 target genes in HepG2 cells .
Furthermore , LD decreased levels of pro-inflammatory mediators in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated Raw264.7 cells.Therefore , LD shows promise for preventing EtOH-mediated liver injury .
PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS : There were no approved therapeutic agents for preventing and/or treating alcoholic liver diseases .
In this study @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of lemon balm and dandelion leaf extract ( DL ) synergistically ameliorated EtOH-induced hepatic injury by inhibiting lipid accumulation , oxidative stress , and inflammation .
Our findings will enable the development of a novel food supplement for the prevention or treatment of alcohol-mediated liver injury .

We investigated the effect of a 2:1 (w/w) mixture of lemon balm and dandelion extracts (LD) on ethanol (EtOH)-mediated liver injury and explored the underlying mechanisms. Administration of LD synergistically reduced relative liver weight and decreased the levels of serum biomarkers of hepatic injury. Histopathological and biochemical analyses indicated that LD synergistically attenuated hepatic accumulation of triacylglycerides (TGs) and restored the levels of mRNAs related to fatty acid metabolism. In addition, LD significantly reduced EtOH-induced hepatic oxidative stress by attenuating the reduction in levels of nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) mRNA and enhancing antioxidant activity. Moreover, LD decreased the EtOH-mediated increase in levels of hepatic tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) mRNA. In vitro, LD significantly scavenged free radicals, increased cell viability against tert-butylhydroperoxide (tBHP), and transactivated Nrf2 target genes in HepG2 cells. Furthermore, LD decreased levels of pro-inflammatory mediators in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated Raw264.7 cells.Therefore, LD shows promise for preventing EtOH-mediated liver injury. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: There were no approved therapeutic agents for preventing and/or treating alcoholic liver diseases. In this study, a 2:1 (w/w) mixture of lemon balm and dandelion leaf extract (DL) synergistically ameliorated EtOH-induced hepatic injury by inhibiting lipid accumulation, oxidative stress, and inflammation. Our findings will enable the development of a novel food supplement for the prevention or treatment of alcohol-mediated liver injury.


greenmedinfo--2020-06-25--More Gates-Funded "Brave New World" Science: Fake Breast Milk

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

This website is for information purposes only. By providing the information contained herein we are not diagnosing, treating, curing, mitigating, or preventing any type of disease or medical condition. Before beginning any type of natural, integrative or conventional treatment regimen, it is advisable to seek the advice of a licensed healthcare professional.
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greenmedinfo--2020-06-25--Parsley and celery can potentially reduce damaging cellular, molecular and biochemical effects of hy

Parsley and celery can potentially reduce damaging cellular, molecular and biochemical effects of hyperuricemia.

Hyperuricemia is an abnormal metabolic condition characterized by an increase in uric acid levels in the blood .
It is the cause of gout , manifested by inflammatory arthritis , pain and disability .
This study examined the possible ameliorative impacts of parsley ( PAR ) and celery ( CEL ) as hypouricemic agents at biochemical , molecular and cellular levels .
PAR and CEL alone or in combination were orally administered to hyperuricemic ( HU ) mice and control mice for 10 consecutive days .
Serum levels of uric acid and blood urea nitrogen ( BUN ) , xanthine @ @ @ @ @ @ @ IL-1β and TNF-α ) and anti-inflammatory cytokines ( IL-10 ) were measured .
mRNA expression of urate transporters and uric acid excretion genes in renal tissues were examined using qRT-PCR ( quantitative real time PCR ) .
Normal histology and immunoreactivity of transforming growth factor-beta 1 ( TGF-β1 ) inkidneys was examined .
Administration of PAR and CEL significantly reduced serum BUN and uric acids in HU mice , ameliorated changes in malondialdehyde , catalase , and reduced glutathione , glutathione peroxidase ( GPX ) , IL-1β , TNF-α and IL-10 in hyperuricemic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in mURAT-1 , mGLUT-9 , mOAT-1 and mOAT-3 expression , as well as changes in TGF-β1 immunoreactivity .
Interestingly , combined administration of PAR and CEL mitigated all examined measurements synergistically , and improved renal dysfunction in the hyperuricemic mice .
The study concluded that PAR and CEL can potentially reduce damaging cellular , molecular and biochemical effects of hyperuricemia both individually and in combination .

Hyperuricemia is an abnormal metabolic condition characterized by an increase in uric acid levels in the blood. It is the cause of gout, manifested by inflammatory arthritis, pain and disability. This study examined the possible ameliorative impacts of parsley (PAR) and celery (CEL) as hypouricemic agents at biochemical, molecular and cellular levels. PAR and CEL alone or in combination were orally administered to hyperuricemic (HU) mice and control mice for 10 consecutive days. Serum levels of uric acid and blood urea nitrogen (BUN), xanthine oxidase activity, antioxidants, inflammatory (IL-1β and TNF-α) and anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-10) were measured. mRNA expression of urate transporters and uric acid excretion genes in renal tissues were examined using qRT-PCR (quantitative real time PCR). Normal histology and immunoreactivity of transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-β1) inkidneys was examined. Administration of PAR and CEL significantly reduced serum BUN and uric acids in HU mice, ameliorated changes in malondialdehyde, catalase, and reduced glutathione, glutathione peroxidase (GPX), IL-1β, TNF-α and IL-10 in hyperuricemic mice. Both effectively normalized the alterations in mURAT-1, mGLUT-9, mOAT-1 and mOAT-3 expression, as well as changes in TGF-β1 immunoreactivity. Interestingly, combined administration of PAR and CEL mitigated all examined measurements synergistically, and improved renal dysfunction in the hyperuricemic mice. The study concluded that PAR and CEL can potentially reduce damaging cellular, molecular and biochemical effects of hyperuricemia both individually and in combination.


greenmedinfo--2020-06-25--Improvement of Petroselinum crispum on morphine toxicity in prefrontal cortex in rats.

Background : ( ) is an associate of the umbelliferae family with several therapeutic attributes .
Morphine is known as a major risk factor in the development of functional disorder of several organs .
Objective : This study was designed to evaluate the effects ofextract against morphine-induced damage to the brain prefrontal cortex ( PC ) of rats .
Materials and Methods : In this experimental study , 64 Wistar male rats were randomly assigned to 8 groups : Sham group , Morphine group , groups ( 50 , 100 , and 150 mg/kg ) , and Morphine +groups .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Ferric reducing/antioxidant power method was hired to determine the total antioxidant capacity ( TAC ) .
The number of dendritic spines was investigated by Golgi staining technique .
Cresyl violet staining method was used to determine the number of neurons in the PC region .
Furthermore , Griess technique was used to determine the level of serum nitrite oxide .
Results : Morphine administration increased nitrite oxide levels and decreased TAC , density of neuronal dendritic spines and neurons compared to the sham group significantly ( < 0.05 ) .
In whole @ @ @ @ @ @ @ number of neurons and neuronal dendritic spines increased significantly while nitrite oxide level and TAC decreased compared to the morphine group ( < 0.05 ) .
Conclusion : It seems that the administration ofextract protects the animals against oxidative stress and nitrite oxide , also improves some PC parameters including the number of neurons , and dendritic spines because of the morphine application .

Background: () is an associate of the umbelliferae family with several therapeutic attributes. Morphine is known as a major risk factor in the development of functional disorder of several organs.
Objective: This study was designed to evaluate the effects ofextract against morphine-induced damage to the brain prefrontal cortex (PC) of rats.
Materials and Methods: In this experimental study, 64 Wistar male rats were randomly assigned to 8 groups: Sham group, Morphine group,groups (50, 100, and 150 mg/kg), and Morphine +groups. Daily intraperitoneal treatment applied for 20 days. Ferric reducing/antioxidant power method was hired to determine the total antioxidant capacity (TAC). The number of dendritic spines was investigated by Golgi staining technique. Cresyl violet staining method was used to determine the number of neurons in the PC region. Furthermore, Griess technique was used to determine the level of serum nitrite oxide.
Results: Morphine administration increased nitrite oxide levels and decreased TAC, density of neuronal dendritic spines and neurons compared to the sham group significantly (<0.05). In whole doses of theand Morphine +groups, the number of neurons and neuronal dendritic spines increased significantly while nitrite oxide level and TAC decreased compared to the morphine group (<0.05).
Conclusion: It seems that the administration ofextract protects the animals against oxidative stress and nitrite oxide, also improves some PC parameters including the number of neurons, and dendritic spines because of the morphine application.


greenmedinfo--2020-06-25--The antioxidant activity of apiin is related to the total antioxidant capacity of parsley.

Twenty-nine flavonoid glycosides were identified in the aqueous extract ( PC ) of Petroselinum crispum var .
crispum leaves and apiin , the major compound , was isolated thereof .
Apigenin was obtained ( 90 % purity ) by the hydrolysis of apiin .
A high content of phenolics ( 12.49± 1.70 mg GAE per g of parsley extract - Folin-Ciocalteu method ) and total flavonoids ( 15.05 ± 2.20 mg of quercetin equivalents per g of parsley extract - aluminum chloride method ) was quantified in P. crispum , as well as high antioxidant activity ( ( EC50 - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and ( 189.8 mMFe ( ii ) per mg of dry plant aqueous extract - FRAP method ) ) .
In vivo analysis with Saccharomyces cerevisiae cells showed low toxicity of the aqueous extract of parsley , however , it revealed a high dose-dependent antioxidant potential , mainly in the lipoperoxidation assay .
In addition , flavonoid apiin also showed antioxidant action on yeast cells under oxidative stress in the cell viability assay ( 0.1 mM ) and lipid peroxidation ( 0.01 and 0.1 mM ) , while apigenin was slightly antioxidant .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ antioxidant activity of apiin is related to the total antioxidant capacity of parsley .

Twenty-nine flavonoid glycosides were identified in the aqueous extract (PC) of Petroselinum crispum var. crispum leaves and apiin, the major compound, was isolated thereof. Apigenin was obtained (90% purity) by the hydrolysis of apiin. A high content of phenolics (12.49± 1.70 mg GAE per g of parsley extract - Folin-Ciocalteu method) and total flavonoids (15.05 ± 2.20 mg of quercetin equivalents per g of parsley extract - aluminum chloride method) was quantified in P. crispum, as well as high antioxidant activity ((EC50 - 15.50 mg mL-1, DPPH method) and (189.8 mMFe(ii) per mg of dry plant aqueous extract - FRAP method)). In vivo analysis with Saccharomyces cerevisiae cells showed low toxicity of the aqueous extract of parsley, however, it revealed a high dose-dependent antioxidant potential, mainly in the lipoperoxidation assay. In addition, flavonoid apiin also showed antioxidant action on yeast cells under oxidative stress in the cell viability assay (0.1 mM) and lipid peroxidation (0.01 and 0.1 mM), while apigenin was slightly antioxidant. Therefore, it is likely that the antioxidant activity of apiin is related to the total antioxidant capacity of parsley.


greenmedinfo--2020-06-25--Watercress and quercetin have protective effect against the cyclophosphamide-induced hepatotoxicity.

Cyclophosphamide ( CPA ) is used in the management of autoimmune conditions and malignant illnesses .
However , its therapeutic use is limited because of its severe side effects , especially hepatotoxicity attributed to oxidative stress .
Nasturtium officinale R. Br ( watercress or WC ) has pharmacological properties , such as anti-inflammation , and antioxidant activities .
Therefore , the present study was design to assess effects of WC or its active ingredient , quercetin ( QE ) , against CPA-induced hepatotoxicity .
For this study , 49 male Wistar rats ( 200-250 g ) were randomly selected and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ animals were pre- and post-treated with both hydroalcoholic extract of WC ( 500 mg/kg ) and quercetin ( 75 mg/kg ) for 10 consecutive days , and intraperitoneal administration of CPA ( 200 mg/kg ) was performed on only day 10 , onehour before the last dose of WC or quercetin .
On day 11 , all the animals were sacrificed , and their blood and liver were gathered for evaluation of the liver enzyme , hepatic oxidative stress markers , antioxidant enzymes activity , and hematoxylin and eosin staining .
CPA significantly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ carbonyl ( PCO ) and nitric oxide ( NO ) levels and liver biomarkers .
Otherwise , hepatic catalase ( CAT ) , reduced glutathione ( GSH ) , total thiol content ( tSH ) , and ferric reducing antioxidant power ( FRAP ) were considerably lower than the control group .
Results showed that WC hasthe ability to reduce the changes ( MDA , PCO , FRAP , CAT , ALT and AST ) and QE ( MDA , PCO , AST ) induced by CPA ( p

Cyclophosphamide (CPA) is used in the management of autoimmune conditions and malignant illnesses. However, its therapeutic use is limited because of its severe side effects, especially hepatotoxicity attributed to oxidative stress. Nasturtium officinale R. Br (watercress or WC) has pharmacological properties, such as anti-inflammation, and antioxidant activities. Therefore, the present study was design to assess effects of WC or its active ingredient, quercetin (QE), against CPA-induced hepatotoxicity. For this study, 49 male Wistar rats (200-250 g) were randomly selected and categorized into seven equal groups. The animals were pre- and post-treated with both hydroalcoholic extract of WC (500 mg/kg) and quercetin (75 mg/kg) for 10 consecutive days, and intraperitoneal administration of CPA (200 mg/kg) was performed on only day 10, onehour before the last dose of WC or quercetin. On day 11, all the animals were sacrificed, and their blood and liver were gathered for evaluation of the liver enzyme, hepatic oxidative stress markers, antioxidant enzymes activity, and hematoxylin and eosin staining. CPA significantly increased malondialdehyde (MDA), protein carbonyl (PCO) and nitric oxide (NO) levels and liver biomarkers. Otherwise, hepatic catalase (CAT), reduced glutathione (GSH), total thiol content (tSH), and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) were considerably lower than the control group. Results showed that WC hasthe ability to reduce the changes (MDA, PCO, FRAP, CAT, ALT and AST) and QE (MDA, PCO, AST) induced by CPA (p < 0.05). Histopathological finding confirmed the indicated results. These findings propose that WC and QE have protective effect against the CPA-induced hepatotoxicity by decreasing oxidative stress.


greenmedinfo--2020-06-25--Biomarkers of oxidative stress and inflammation in people with a physical disability treated with a

Biomarkers of oxidative stress and inflammation in people with a physical disability treated with a standardized extract of Nasturtium officinale.

It is well established that plants from the Brassicaceae family , particularly watercress , have been associated to reduce oxidative DNA damage .
Nasturtium officinale R. Br ( watercress ) contains glucosinolates , with anti-inflammatory action and protective effect on human health against oxidative stress .
We aimed to evaluate whether the standardized extract of Nasturtium officinale ( SENO ) is capable of changing biomarkers of oxidative stress and inflammation in people with physical disabilities .
65 people enrolled this study : as a control group composed by ; 15 people with no physical disability assessed once , 25 people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ SENO , and 25 people with physical disabilities using 750 mg/kg/day of placebo-control for 5 weeks .
Biomarkers of oxidative stress and inflammation were analyzed on day 0 and 36 .
The results indicated that SENO was associated with decreasing levels of lipid peroxidation , protein carbonyl , catalase , superoxide dismutase , and C-reactive protein .
Furthermore , the cytokine kit demonstrated below and out of invertible range , which was impossible to detect the inflammatory process .
Despite the cytokine kit was not able to detect the inflammation ; these data @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have affected positively people with physical disabilities decreasing their biomarkers of oxidative stress and C-reactive protein .
Further studies are required .

It is well established that plants from the Brassicaceae family, particularly watercress, have been associated to reduce oxidative DNA damage. Nasturtium officinale R. Br (watercress) contains glucosinolates, with anti-inflammatory action and protective effect on human health against oxidative stress. We aimed to evaluate whether the standardized extract of Nasturtium officinale (SENO) is capable of changing biomarkers of oxidative stress and inflammation in people with physical disabilities. 65 people enrolled this study: as a control group composed by; 15 people with no physical disability assessed once, 25 people with physical disabilities using 750 mg/kg/day of SENO, and 25 people with physical disabilities using 750 mg/kg/day of placebo-control for 5 weeks. Biomarkers of oxidative stress and inflammation were analyzed on day 0 and 36. The results indicated that SENO was associated with decreasing levels of lipid peroxidation, protein carbonyl, catalase, superoxide dismutase, and C-reactive protein. Furthermore, the cytokine kit demonstrated below and out of invertible range, which was impossible to detect the inflammatory process. Despite the cytokine kit was not able to detect the inflammation; these data might provide supportive evidence that SENO, have affected positively people with physical disabilities decreasing their biomarkers of oxidative stress and C-reactive protein. Further studies are required.


greenmedinfo--2020-06-25--Neferine significantly promotes a fast and efficient wound healing.

The diabetic foot ulcer ( DFU ) may be associated with late healing and septic manifestation , subsequently lead to amputation which is an overpriced incident .
Neferine is an alkaloid found lotus .
Neferine possesses many physiological functions such as anti-inflammatory , antioxidant , antimicrobial activity and anticancer effect .
The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of topical application based on neferine , in streptozotocin-induced diabetic incision wound models rats .
The data demonstrated wound healing activitiesmacroscopic , biochemical , histological , immuno-histochemical , immunofluorescent and molecular methods .
There was significant acceleration in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ period of re-epitalization , higher amount of collagen and protein content in neferine treated group when compared with diabetic wound control .
Histological data evidence collagen formation in skin and marked granulation with more connective tissue markers .
The augmentation of serum insulin and HDL was dissimilar with blood glucose reduction and decreased lipid level ( TC , TG and LDL ) .
The healing effect was additionally validated by decreased lipid peroxidation and enhanced antioxidants .
Concurrently , the mRNA level of Nrf-2 , collagen-1 , TGF-β and α-SMA were decreased with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ achieved through downregulation of inflammatory mediators such as nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells , tumour necrosis factor-α , interleukin-1β , interleukin-8 , inducible nitric oxide synthase , and cyclooxygenase-2 , and upregulation of growth factor such as in groups treated with neferine .
The western blot results reveal the macrophage ( CD 68 and CD 163 ) involved in wound healing markedly elevated .
Hence , the results indicate that neferine significantly promotes a fast and efficient wound healing in diabetic rats .

The diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) may be associated with late healing and septic manifestation, subsequently lead to amputation which is an overpriced incident. Neferine is an alkaloid found lotus. Neferine possesses many physiological functions such as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial activity and anticancer effect. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of topical application based on neferine, in streptozotocin-induced diabetic incision wound models rats. The data demonstrated wound healing activitiesmacroscopic, biochemical, histological, immuno-histochemical, immunofluorescent and molecular methods. There was significant acceleration in wound closure rate, decrease in the period of re-epitalization, higher amount of collagen and protein content in neferine treated group when compared with diabetic wound control. Histological data evidence collagen formation in skin and marked granulation with more connective tissue markers. The augmentation of serum insulin and HDL was dissimilar with blood glucose reduction and decreased lipid level (TC, TG and LDL). The healing effect was additionally validated by decreased lipid peroxidation and enhanced antioxidants. Concurrently, the mRNA level of Nrf-2, collagen-1, TGF-β and α-SMA were decreased with Kaep-1 increased significantly. This enhancement was achieved through downregulation of inflammatory mediators such as nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells, tumour necrosis factor-α, interleukin-1β, interleukin-8, inducible nitric oxide synthase, and cyclooxygenase-2, and upregulation of growth factor such as in groups treated with neferine. The western blot results reveal the macrophage (CD 68 and CD 163) involved in wound healing markedly elevated. Hence, the results indicate that neferine significantly promotes a fast and efficient wound healing in diabetic rats.


greenmedinfo--2020-06-25--Neferine may be a potential candidate molecule in the treatment of proliferative vitreoretinopathy.

Proliferative vitreoretinopathy ( PVR ) occurs in approximately 5-10 % of patients after retinal detachment surgery .
Neferine is a bis-benzylisoquinoline alkaloid found in the green seed embryos ( ) of the lotus flower and has various properties , such as being antithrombotic , antioxidant , neuroprotective , anticancerous , and anti-inflammatory .
Although the effects of neferine on the proliferation and migration of cancer cells have been partially shown , their possible role and the mechanism of action on PVR remain unclear.To mimic a PVR model , retinal pigment epithelial ( RPE ) cells were exposed to epidermal growth @ @ @ @ @ @ @ various concentrations of neferine .
Cell viability was determined by MTT test .
Cell-cycle phase distribution and cell migration were examined by image-based cytometry and wound healing test , respectively .
Messenger RNA ( mRNA ) and protein expression were determined by RT-qPCR and Western blotting , respectively.Stimulation of the cells with EGF significantly increased the rate of proliferation , whilst treatment with low concentrations of neferine-reduced proliferation to a level equal to that seen in untreated cells .
Neferine significantly downregulated EGF-increased cell viability , and survivin mRNA expression was depressed to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ neferine treatment contributed to cell proliferation loss by upregulating p21 and p27 expression leading to cycle arrest at the G1 phase .
The treatment significantly inhibited cell migration by upregulating the expression of epithelial markers , such as E-cadherin and occludin , and decreased MMP2 , MMP9 , α-SMA , and vimentin .
Neferine treatment markedly reduced phosphotidyl inositol 3-kinase ( PI3K ) , AKT , p-p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase ( MAPK ) , and NF-κB ( nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells ) protein expression.It can be considered that neferine may @ @ @ @ @ @ @ treatment of PVR by inhibiting cell proliferation and the migration of EGF-induced RPE cells through the modulation of various transcriptional activities .

Proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR) occurs in approximately 5-10% of patients after retinal detachment surgery. Neferine is a bis-benzylisoquinoline alkaloid found in the green seed embryos () of the lotus flower and has various properties, such as being antithrombotic, antioxidant, neuroprotective, anticancerous, and anti-inflammatory. Although the effects of neferine on the proliferation and migration of cancer cells have been partially shown, their possible role and the mechanism of action on PVR remain unclear.To mimic a PVR model, retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells were exposed to epidermal growth factor (EGF) and treated with various concentrations of neferine. Cell viability was determined by MTT test. Cell-cycle phase distribution and cell migration were examined by image-based cytometry and wound healing test, respectively. Messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein expression were determined by RT-qPCR and Western blotting, respectively.Stimulation of the cells with EGF significantly increased the rate of proliferation, whilst treatment with low concentrations of neferine-reduced proliferation to a level equal to that seen in untreated cells. Neferine significantly downregulated EGF-increased cell viability, and survivin mRNA expression was depressed to the basal level. In addition, neferine treatment contributed to cell proliferation loss by upregulating p21 and p27 expression leading to cycle arrest at the G1 phase. The treatment significantly inhibited cell migration by upregulating the expression of epithelial markers, such as E-cadherin and occludin, and decreased MMP2, MMP9,α-SMA, and vimentin. Neferine treatment markedly reduced phosphotidyl inositol 3-kinase (PI3K), AKT, p-p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), and NF-κB (nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells) protein expression.It can be considered that neferine may be a potential candidate molecule in the treatment of PVR by inhibiting cell proliferation and the migration of EGF-induced RPE cells through the modulation of various transcriptional activities.


greenmedinfo--2020-06-25--Nootropic effect of neferine on aluminium chloride-induced Alzheimer's disease in experimental model

Nootropic effect of neferine on aluminium chloride-induced Alzheimer's disease in experimental models.

Alzheimer 's disease ( AD ) is an age-associated neurodegenerative disease , which is developed by oxidative stress and acetylcholine contraction in the synaptic cleft of the neurons .
This leads to dementia , memory loss , and decrease in learning ability and orientation .
In this research work , we aimed to explore the neuroprotective effect of neferine on AlCl-induced AD in rats .
The results of our study revealed that the increased reactive oxygen species ( ROS ) and nitric oxide in the hippocampus leads to the development of AD in the rats .
The oral treatment of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ; it potentially inhibited the ROS formation and acts as a scavenging molecule by preventing the neurodegeneration .
It also improved the memory and learning ability to complete the maze activity in the AD rats and significantly increased the antioxidants superoxide dismutase , catalase , and reduced glutathione in neferine treated AD rats .
It aggressively declined the activity of acetylcholine esterase and NaKATPase in the neurodegenerative rat models .
The gene expression pattern of neuroinflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factorα ( TNF-α ) , interleukin-6 ( IL-6 ) , and interleukin-1β @ @ @ @ @ @ @ neferine-treated rats .
The neuroinflammatory proteins such as inducible nitric oxide ( iNOS ) , cyclooxygenase-2 ( COX-2 ) , and nuclear factor kappa β ( Nf-κβ ) were decreased and Nf-κβ inhibitor IKBα was increasedin the neferine-treated AD rats .
Finally , the histology study proved that the neferine treatment possibly prevents neurodegeneration in the hippocampus tissue of the AD models .
Hence , these all findings concluded that the neferine could be a potential neuropreventive as well as neurodegenerative therapeutic compound in neurological and cognitive dysfunction .

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is an age-associated neurodegenerative disease, which is developed by oxidative stress and acetylcholine contraction in the synaptic cleft of the neurons. This leads to dementia, memory loss, and decrease in learning ability and orientation. In this research work, we aimed to explore the neuroprotective effect of neferine on AlCl-induced AD in rats. The results of our study revealed that the increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) and nitric oxide in the hippocampus leads to the development of AD in the rats. The oral treatment of neferine done the following occurrences such as; it potentially inhibited the ROS formation and acts as a scavenging molecule by preventing the neurodegeneration. It also improved the memory and learning ability to complete the maze activity in the AD rats and significantly increased the antioxidants superoxide dismutase, catalase, and reduced glutathione in neferine treated AD rats. It aggressively declined the activity of acetylcholine esterase and NaKATPase in the neurodegenerative rat models. The gene expression pattern of neuroinflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factorα (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) were decreased in the neferine-treated rats. The neuroinflammatory proteins such as inducible nitric oxide (iNOS), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), and nuclear factor kappa β (Nf-κβ) were decreased and Nf-κβ inhibitor IKBα was increasedin the neferine-treated AD rats. Finally, the histology study proved that the neferine treatment possibly prevents neurodegeneration in the hippocampus tissue of the AD models. Hence, these all findings concluded that the neferine could be a potential neuropreventive as well as neurodegenerative therapeutic compound in neurological and cognitive dysfunction.


greenmedinfo--2020-06-25--Vasorelaxant and antihypertensive effects of neferine.

The present study was performed to examine the antihypertensive effect of neferine in hypertensive rats and its relaxant mechanisms in @ @ @ @ @ The antihypertensive effect was evaluated by tail-cuff methods on N-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester ( L-NAME ) @ @ @ @ @ 4-week hypertensive-induced hypertensive rats .
The vasorelaxant effect and its mechanisms were studied by the @ @ @ @ @ thoracic aorta isolated from normotensive rats .
The results indicated that the treatment of neferine @ @ @ @ @ mg/kg ) markedly decreased the systolic blood pressure ( SBP ) when compared with the @ @ @ @ @ 10.14 mmHg and 132.23 ± 9.5 mmHg , respectively , p

The present study was performed to examine the antihypertensive effect of neferine in hypertensive rats and its relaxant mechanisms in isolated rat thoracic aorta. The antihypertensive effect was evaluated by tail-cuff methods on N-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME) (40 mg/kg BW) 4-week hypertensive-induced hypertensive rats. The vasorelaxant effect and its mechanisms were studied by the organ bath technique in the thoracic aorta isolated from normotensive rats. The results indicated that the treatment of neferine (1 mg/kg and 10 mg/kg) markedly decreased the systolic blood pressure (SBP) when compared with the hypertension group (137.75 ± 10.14 mmHg and 132.23 ± 9.5 mmHg, respectively, p < 0.001), without affecting the heart rate. Moreover, neferine (10 - 10 M) exhibited concentration-dependent vasorelaxation in endothelium-intact rings (Evalues = 98.95 ± 0.66% and pD = 7.93 ± 0.28) and endothelium-denuded rings (Evalues = 90.61 ± 1.91% and pD = 6.85 ± 0.36). The effects of neferine were reduced by pre-incubation with L-NAME and 1H-[1,2,4]oxadiazolo[4,3-a] quinoxalin-1-one (ODQ) but not with pre-incubation with indomethacin and Kchannel blockers. Neferine attenuated the contractions induced by phenylephrine and caffeine in a Ca-free solution and also inhibited in CaCl- and phenylephrine-induced contracted rings. Our study suggests that neferine exhibited hypertensive potential, induced vasorelaxation through the endothelium nitric oxide synthase (eNOS)/nitric oxide (NO)/soluble guanylyl cyclase (sGC) pathway and involved the modulation of Cainflux through Cachannels and intracellular Carelease from the sarcoplasmic reticulum.


greenmedinfo--2020-06-25--Neferine prevents ultraviolet radiation-induced skin photoaging.

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the anti-photoaging effect of neferine upon exposure of mice to ultraviolet @ @ @ @ @ Anphotoaging model was established by repeatedly exposing mouse dorsal skin to UV-A and UV-B radiation @ @ @ @ @ skin photographs , hematoxylin and eosin staining , Masson 's trichrome staining , and scanning @ @ @ @ @ skin wrinkles , epidermal thickness and dermal collagen were analyzed in the UV-irradiated mouse skin @ @ @ @ @ of endogenous antioxidants , namely superoxide dismutase ( SOD ) and glutathione peroxidase ( GPx @ @ @ @ @ determine the extent of UV-induced oxidative stress that was associated with photoaging .
The results @ @ @ @ @ of neferine following UV irradiation reduced oxidative stress by increasing SOD and GPx activities , @ @ @ @ @ .
Histological and ultrastructural examination revealed that neferine delayed skin wrinkle formation by inhibiting epidermal @ @ @ @ @ degradation .
In conclusion , the results of the present study indicated that neferine effectively @ @ @ @ @ photodamage .

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the anti-photoaging effect of neferine upon exposure of mice to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Anphotoaging model was established by repeatedly exposing mouse dorsal skin to UV-A and UV-B radiation for 12 weeks. Through skin photographs, hematoxylin and eosin staining, Masson's trichrome staining, and scanning and transmission electron microscopy, skin wrinkles, epidermal thickness and dermal collagen were analyzed in the UV-irradiated mouse skin. Furthermore, the levels of endogenous antioxidants, namely superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx), were measured to determine the extent of UV-induced oxidative stress that was associated with photoaging. The results demonstrated that the topical application of neferine following UV irradiation reduced oxidative stress by increasing SOD and GPx activities, and attenuated the photoaging process. Histological and ultrastructural examination revealed that neferine delayed skin wrinkle formation by inhibiting epidermal hypertrophy and collagen loss and degradation. In conclusion, the results of the present study indicated that neferine effectively prevents UV-induced skin photoaging and photodamage.


greenmedinfo--2020-06-25--Neferine treatment enhances the TRAIL-induced apoptosis of human prostate cancer cells.

Prostate cancer ( PCa ) is a common type of cancer among males , with a relatively high mortality rate .
Tumor necrosis factor‑related apoptosis‑inducing ligand ( TRAIL ) , a member of the tumor necrosis factor ( TNF ) family , initiates the apoptosis of certain cancer cells .
Neferine , a primary ingredient of bisbenzylisoquinoline alkaloids , has various antitumor activities .
The present study examined the effects of neferinetreatment on human PCa cells .
Human prostate cancer ( DU145 ) cells were treated with neferine for 18 h , and subsequently treated with TRAIL for 2 h. @ @ @ @ @ @ @ decreased cell viability compared to treatment with TRAIL alone .
Furthermore , neferine treatment decreased the expression of p62 and increased LC3B‑II expression , as assessed by western blot analysis and immunocytochemistry .
It was alsp demonstrated that neferine and TRAIL act synergistically to trigger autophagy in PCa cells , as revealed by autophagosome formation , LC3B‑II accumulation demonstrated by transmission electron microscopy ( TEM ) analysis and phosphorylated c‑Jun N‑terminal kinase ( p‑JNK ) upregulation .
When the autophagic flux was attenuated by the inhibitor , chloroquine , or by genetically modified @ @ @ @ @ @ @ autophagy by neferine‑induced was also attenuated .
Furthermore , treatment with the JNK inhibitor , SP600125 , distinctly increased the viability of the cells treated with neferine and TRAIL .
On the whole , the findings of the present study demonstrate that neferine treatment effectively promotes TRAIL‑mediated celldeath and this effect likely occurs via the autophagic flux and the JNK pathway .

Prostate cancer (PCa) is a common type of cancer among males, with a relatively high mortality rate. Tumor necrosis factor‑related apoptosis‑inducing ligand (TRAIL), a member of the tumor necrosis factor (TNF) family, initiates the apoptosis of certain cancer cells. Neferine, a primary ingredient of bisbenzylisoquinoline alkaloids, has various antitumor activities. The present study examined the effects of neferinetreatment on human PCa cells. Human prostate cancer (DU145) cells were treated with neferine for 18 h, and subsequently treated with TRAIL for 2 h. Combined treatment with neferine and TRAIL significantly decreased cell viability compared to treatment with TRAIL alone. Furthermore, neferine treatment decreased the expression of p62 and increased LC3B‑II expression, as assessed by western blot analysis and immunocytochemistry. It was alsp demonstrated that neferine and TRAIL act synergistically to trigger autophagy in PCa cells, as revealed by autophagosome formation, LC3B‑II accumulation demonstrated by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analysis and phosphorylated c‑Jun N‑terminal kinase (p‑JNK) upregulation. When the autophagic flux was attenuated by the inhibitor, chloroquine, or by genetically modified ATG5 siRNA, the enhancement of TRAIL‑induced autophagy by neferine‑induced was also attenuated. Furthermore, treatment with the JNK inhibitor, SP600125, distinctly increased the viability of the cells treated with neferine and TRAIL. On the whole, the findings of the present study demonstrate that neferine treatment effectively promotes TRAIL‑mediated celldeath and this effect likely occurs via the autophagic flux and the JNK pathway.


greenmedinfo--2020-06-25--Neferine is a promising pharmacotherapy for osteoarthritis.

Osteoarthritis ( OA ) , in which inflammation plays a crucial role , is the most common joint disease characterized by cartilage degradation .
Neferine ( Nef ) , a dibenzyl isoquinoline alkaloid , has shown its anti-inflammatory effects on other inflammatory diseases .
Therefore , we hypothesized that Nef might also have an anti-inflammatory effect on OA and explored its effect on IL-1β-treated rat chondrocytes .
Sprague Dawley ( SD ) rat chondrocytes were stimulated with IL-1β ( 10 ng/ml ) and Nef ( 1 , 5 , and 10 μM ) or IL-1β ( 10 ng/ml ) alone @ @ @ @ @ @ @ oxide synthase ( iNOS ) , cyclooxygenase 2 ( COX-2 ) , matrix metalloproteinases ( MMPs ) , and thrombospondin motifs-5 ( ADAMTS5 ) was determined by quantitative real-time PCR and Western blotting .
Expression of collagen II and aggrecan was examined by Western blotting , immunofluorescence , and safranin O staining .
In addition , activation of MAPK and NF-κB signaling pathway was examined by Western blotting , and p65 nuclear translocation was evaluated by immunofluorescence .
Nef reduced expression of inflammatory regulators ( iNOS and COX-2 ) in IL-1β-treated chondrocytes .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ MMP3 , MMP13 , and ADAMTS5 ) was inhibited by Nef .
Meanwhile , downregulation of collagen II and aggrecan expression was also ameliorated .
Furthermore , Nef dampened abnormal activation of MAPK and NF-κB signaling pathway triggered by IL-1β .
Overall , the results above showed that Nef inhibited IL-1β-induced excess production of inflammatory and catabolic factors in rat chondrocytes via inhibiting the MAPK and NF-κB pathways , suggesting a promising pharmacotherapy for OA .

Osteoarthritis (OA), in which inflammation plays a crucial role, is the most common joint disease characterized by cartilage degradation. Neferine (Nef), a dibenzyl isoquinoline alkaloid, has shown its anti-inflammatory effects on other inflammatory diseases. Therefore, we hypothesized that Nef might also have an anti-inflammatory effect on OA and explored its effect on IL-1β-treated rat chondrocytes. Sprague Dawley (SD) rat chondrocytes were stimulated with IL-1β (10 ng/ml) and Nef (1, 5, and 10 μM) or IL-1β (10 ng/ml) alone for 24 h. Expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2), matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), and thrombospondin motifs-5 (ADAMTS5) was determined by quantitative real-time PCR and Western blotting. Expression of collagen II and aggrecan was examined by Western blotting, immunofluorescence, and safranin O staining. In addition, activation of MAPK and NF-κB signaling pathway was examined by Western blotting, and p65 nuclear translocation was evaluated by immunofluorescence. Nef reduced expression of inflammatory regulators (iNOS and COX-2) in IL-1β-treated chondrocytes. Expression of IL-1β-induced major catabolic enzymes (MMP3, MMP13, and ADAMTS5) was inhibited by Nef. Meanwhile, downregulation of collagen II and aggrecan expression was also ameliorated. Furthermore, Nef dampened abnormal activation of MAPK and NF-κB signaling pathway triggered by IL-1β. Overall, the results above showed that Nef inhibited IL-1β-induced excess production of inflammatory and catabolic factors in rat chondrocytes via inhibiting the MAPK and NF-κB pathways, suggesting a promising pharmacotherapy for OA.