greenmedinfo--2020-04-03--Induction of cellular and molecular Immunomodulatory pathways by vitamin E and vitamin C.

Vitamins E and C are well known small molecules that have been used to maintain health for decades .
Recent studies of the cellular and molecular pathways leading to immunomodulation by these molecules have been of interest , as have their anti-oxidant properties and signal transduction pathways for curing or improving infectious diseases and cancer .
Areas covered : Herein , the authors provide a definition and the structural classification of vitamins E and C and how these molecules influence cellular function .
The studies include in vitro , ex vivo and in vivo studies in animal models as well @ @ @ @ @ @ @ particular focus to the scientifically factual and putative roles of these molecules in innate and adaptive immunomodulation and prevention or cure of diseases .
Expert opinion : The antioxidant properties of vitamins E and C are well studied .
However , whether there is a link between their antioxidant and immunomodulation properties is unclear .
In addition , there is a strong , albeit putative , prevailing notion that vitamin C can prevent or cure infectious diseases or cancer .
Presently , while there is proven evidence that vitamin E possesses immunomodulatory properties @ @ @ @ @ @ @ disease outcomes , this evidence is less available for vitamin C .

Vitamins E and C are well known small molecules that have been used to maintain health for decades. Recent studies of the cellular and molecular pathways leading to immunomodulation by these molecules have been of interest, as have their anti-oxidant properties and signal transduction pathways for curing or improving infectious diseases and cancer. Areas covered: Herein, the authors provide a definition and the structural classification of vitamins E and C and how these molecules influence cellular function. The studies include in vitro, ex vivo and in vivo studies in animal models as well as clinical trials. The authors give particular focus to the scientifically factual and putative roles of these molecules in innate and adaptive immunomodulation and prevention or cure of diseases. Expert opinion: The antioxidant properties of vitamins E and C are well studied. However, whether there is a link between their antioxidant and immunomodulation properties is unclear. In addition, there is a strong, albeit putative, prevailing notion that vitamin C can prevent or cure infectious diseases or cancer. Presently, while there is proven evidence that vitamin E possesses immunomodulatory properties that may play a positive role in disease outcomes, this evidence is less available for vitamin C.


greenmedinfo--2020-04-03--Immunomodulatory effect of pleuran (β-glucan from Pleurotus ostreatus) in children with recurrent re

Immunomodulatory effect of pleuran (β-glucan from Pleurotus ostreatus) in children with recurrent respiratory tract infections.

OBJECTIVES : Recurrent respiratory tract infections ( RRTIs ) represent a very important problem in daily clinical practice because of their significant contribution to morbidity in children .
Several natural nutritional supplements have been used in the prevention of RRTIs , but the clinical efficacy of only a few preparations is supported by scientific evidence .
MATERIALS AND METHODS : In a double-blind , placebo-controlled , randomised , multicentre study , we have observed a group of 175 children ( aged 5.65± 2.39 years ) with more than 5 respiratory infections that occurred during the 12 months prior to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ randomised into an active group , treated with Imunoglukan P4H® syrup ( with pleuran-β-glucan from Pleurotus ostreatus and vitamin C ) , or a placebo group ( vitamin C only ) .
During the 3 visits , within a 12-month period , questionnaires were completed , and blood samples were examined for immune parameters .
RESULTS : In the active group , 36 % of the children did not suffer from any respiratory infections throughout the treatment , compared to 21 % in the placebo group ( p < 0.05 ) .
Imunoglukan @ @ @ @ @ @ @ flu and flu-like disease and the number of lower respiratory tract infections .
Imunoglukan P4H® treatment resulted in a statistically significant modulation of humoral and cellular immunity .
CONCLUSIONS : Results from this study demonstrate that Imunoglukan P4H® is effective in the prevention of RRTIs in children .
Furthermore , our results also revealed complex immunomodulatory activity of this product .
This is the first double-blind , placebo-controlled study in children with RRTIs that has addressed the preventive effects of pleuran on morbidity caused by respiratory infections .

OBJECTIVES: Recurrent respiratory tract infections (RRTIs) represent a very important problem in daily clinical practice because of their significant contribution to morbidity in children. Several natural nutritional supplements have been used in the prevention of RRTIs, but the clinical efficacy of only a few preparations is supported by scientific evidence.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: In a double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomised, multicentre study, we have observed a group of 175 children (aged 5.65± 2.39 years) with more than 5 respiratory infections that occurred during the 12 months prior to the beginning of the study. Children were randomised into an active group, treated with Imunoglukan P4H® syrup (with pleuran-β-glucan from Pleurotus ostreatus and vitamin C), or a placebo group (vitamin C only). During the 3 visits, within a 12-month period, questionnaires were completed, and blood samples were examined for immune parameters.
RESULTS: In the active group, 36% of the children did not suffer from any respiratory infections throughout the treatment, compared to 21% in the placebo group (p<0.05). Imunoglukan P4H® also significantly decreased the frequency of flu and flu-like disease and the number of lower respiratory tract infections. Imunoglukan P4H® treatment resulted in a statistically significant modulation of humoral and cellular immunity.
CONCLUSIONS: Results from this study demonstrate that Imunoglukan P4H® is effective in the prevention of RRTIs in children. Furthermore, our results also revealed complex immunomodulatory activity of this product. This is the first double-blind, placebo-controlled study in children with RRTIs that has addressed the preventive effects of pleuran on morbidity caused by respiratory infections.


greenmedinfo--2020-04-03--Therapeutic vitamin C supplementation may be reasonable for pneumonia patients who have low vitamin

Therapeutic vitamin C supplementation may be reasonable for pneumonia patients who have low vitamin C plasma levels.

BACKGROUND : Pneumonia is one of the most common serious infections , causing two million deaths annually among young children in low-income countries .
In high-income countries pneumonia is most significantly a problem of the elderly .
OBJECTIVES : To assess the prophylactic and therapeutic effects of vitamin C on pneumonia .
SEARCH METHODS : We searched CENTRAL 2013 , Issue 3 , MEDLINE ( 1950 to March week 4 , 2013 ) , EMBASE ( 1974 to April 2013 ) and Web of Science ( 1955 to April 2013 ) .
SELECTION CRITERIA : To assess the therapeutic effects @ @ @ @ @ @ @ trials .
To assess prophylactic effects , we selected controlled trials with or without a placebo .
DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS : Two review authors independently read the trial reports and extracted data .
MAIN RESULTS : We identified three prophylactic trials which recorded 37 cases of community-acquired pneumonia in 2335 people .
Only one was satisfactorily randomised , double-blind and placebo-controlled .
Two trials examined military recruits and the third studied boys from '' lower wage-earning classes '' attending a boarding school in the UK during World War II .
Each of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( 80 % or greater ) reduction in pneumonia incidence in the vitamin C group .
We identified two therapeutic trials involving 197 community-acquired pneumonia patients .
Only one was satisfactorily randomised , double-blind and placebo-controlled .
That trial studied elderly patients in the UK and found lower mortality and reduced severity in the vitamin C group ; however , the benefit was restricted to the most ill patients .
The other therapeutic trial studied adults with a wide age range in the former Soviet Union and found a dose-dependent reduction in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ doses .
We identified one prophylactic trial recording 13 cases of hospital-acquired pneumonia in 37 severely burned patients ; one-day administration of vitamin C had no effect on pneumonia incidence .
The identified studies are clinically heterogeneous which limits their comparability .
The included studies did not find adverse effects of vitamin C. AUTHORS ' CONCLUSIONS : The prophylactic use of vitamin C to prevent pneumonia should be further investigated in populations who have a high incidence of pneumonia , especially if dietary vitamin C intake is low .
Similarly , the therapeutic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , especially in patients with low plasma vitamin C levels .
The current evidence is too weak to advocate prophylactic use of vitamin C to prevent pneumonia in the general population .
Nevertheless , therapeutic vitamin C supplementation may be reasonable for pneumonia patients who have low vitamin C plasma levels because its cost and risks are low .

BACKGROUND: Pneumonia is one of the most common serious infections, causing two million deaths annually among young children in low-income countries. In high-income countries pneumonia is most significantly a problem of the elderly.
OBJECTIVES: To assess the prophylactic and therapeutic effects of vitamin C on pneumonia.
SEARCH METHODS: We searched CENTRAL 2013, Issue 3, MEDLINE (1950 to March week 4, 2013), EMBASE (1974 to April 2013) and Web of Science (1955 to April 2013).
SELECTION CRITERIA: To assess the therapeutic effects of vitamin C, we selected placebo-controlled trials. To assess prophylactic effects, we selected controlled trials with or without a placebo.
DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: Two review authors independently read the trial reports and extracted data.
MAIN RESULTS: We identified three prophylactic trials which recorded 37 cases of community-acquired pneumonia in 2335 people. Only one was satisfactorily randomised, double-blind and placebo-controlled. Two trials examined military recruits and the third studied boys from"lower wage-earning classes"attending a boarding school in the UK during World War II. Each of these three trials found a statistically significant (80% or greater) reduction in pneumonia incidence in the vitamin C group. We identified two therapeutic trials involving 197 community-acquired pneumonia patients. Only one was satisfactorily randomised, double-blind and placebo-controlled. That trial studied elderly patients in the UK and found lower mortality and reduced severity in the vitamin C group; however, the benefit was restricted to the most ill patients. The other therapeutic trial studied adults with a wide age range in the former Soviet Union and found a dose-dependent reduction in the duration of pneumonia with two vitamin C doses. We identified one prophylactic trial recording 13 cases of hospital-acquired pneumonia in 37 severely burned patients; one-day administration of vitamin C had no effect on pneumonia incidence. The identified studies are clinically heterogeneous which limits their comparability. The included studies did not find adverse effects of vitamin C.
AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS: The prophylactic use of vitamin C to prevent pneumonia should be further investigated in populations who have a high incidence of pneumonia, especially if dietary vitamin C intake is low. Similarly, the therapeutic effects of vitamin C should be studied, especially in patients with low plasma vitamin C levels. The current evidence is too weak to advocate prophylactic use of vitamin C to prevent pneumonia in the general population. Nevertheless, therapeutic vitamin C supplementation may be reasonable for pneumonia patients who have low vitamin C plasma levels because its cost and risks are low.


greenmedinfo--2020-04-02--Supplementation with a probiotic/vitamin C combination may be beneficial in the prevention and manag

Supplementation with a probiotic/vitamin C combination may be beneficial in the prevention and management of upper respiratory tract infections.

BACKGROUND : This pilot study investigates the efficacy of a probiotic consortium ( Lab4 ) in combination with vitamin C on the prevention of respiratory tract infections in children attending preschool facilities .
SUBJECTS/METHODS : In a double-blind , randomised , placebo-controlled pilot study with children aged 3-6 years , 57 received 1.25× 10 ( 10 ) colony-forming units of Lactobacillus acidophilus CUL21 ( NCIMB 30156 ) , Lactobacillus acidophilus CUL60 ( NCIMB 30157 ) , Bifidobacterium bifidum CUL20 ( NCIMB 30153 ) and Bifidobacterium animalis subsp .
lactis CUL34 ( NCIMB 30172 ) plus 50 mg vitamin C or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ RESULTS : Significant reductions in the incidence rate of upper respiratory tract infection ( URTI ; 33 % , P=0.002 ) , the number of days with URTI symptoms ( mean difference : -21.0 , 95 % confidence interval ( CI ) : -35.9 , -6.0 , P=0.006 ) and the incidence rate of absence from preschool ( 30 % , P=0.007 ) were observed in the active group compared with the placebo .
The number of days of use of antibiotics , painkillers , cough medicine or nasal sprays was lower in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ use of cough medicine ( mean difference : -6.6 , 95 % CI : -12.9 , -0.3 , P=0.040 ) .
No significant differences were observed in the incidence rate ratio or duration of lower respiratory tract infection or in the levels of plasma cytokines , salivary immunoglobulin A or urinary metabolites .
CONCLUSIONS : Supplementation with a probiotic/vitamin C combination may be beneficial in the prevention and management of URTIs .

BACKGROUND: This pilot study investigates the efficacy of a probiotic consortium (Lab4) in combination with vitamin C on the prevention of respiratory tract infections in children attending preschool facilities.
SUBJECTS/METHODS: In a double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled pilot study with children aged 3-6 years, 57 received 1.25× 10(10) colony-forming units of Lactobacillus acidophilus CUL21 (NCIMB 30156), Lactobacillus acidophilus CUL60 (NCIMB 30157), Bifidobacterium bifidum CUL20 (NCIMB 30153) and Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis CUL34 (NCIMB 30172) plus 50 mg vitamin C or a placebo daily for 6 months.
RESULTS: Significant reductions in the incidence rate of upper respiratory tract infection (URTI; 33%, P=0.002), the number of days with URTI symptoms (mean difference: -21.0, 95% confidence interval (CI):-35.9, -6.0, P=0.006) and the incidence rate of absence from preschool (30%, P=0.007) were observed in the active group compared with the placebo. The number of days of use of antibiotics, painkillers, cough medicine or nasal sprays was lower in the active group and reached significance for use of cough medicine (mean difference: -6.6, 95% CI: -12.9, -0.3, P=0.040). No significant differences were observed in the incidence rate ratio or duration of lower respiratory tract infection or in the levels of plasma cytokines, salivary immunoglobulin A or urinary metabolites.
CONCLUSIONS: Supplementation with a probiotic/vitamin C combination may be beneficial in the prevention and management of URTIs.


greenmedinfo--2020-04-02--Colloidal silver could be an effective treatment for infections caused by MDR gram-negative and gram

Colloidal silver could be an effective treatment for infections caused by MDR gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria.

Due to the emergence of antimicrobial resistance , new alternative therapies are needed .
Silver was used to treat bacterial infections since antiquity due to its known antimicrobial properties .
Here , we aimed to evaluate the in vitro activity of colloidal silver ( CS ) against multidrug-resistant ( MDR ) Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria .
A total of 270 strains ( ( = 45 ) , ( = 25 ) , ( = 79 ) , ( = 58 ) ] , ( = 34 ) , ( = 14 ) , and ( = 15 ) ) were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ MIC ) of CS was determined for all strains by using microdilution assay , and time-kill curve assays of representative reference and MDR strains of these bacteria were performed .
Membrane permeation and bacterial reactive oxygen species ( ROS ) production were determined in presence of CS .
CS MICwas 4-8 mg/L for all strains .
CS was bactericidal , during 24 h , at 1× and 2× MIC against Gram-negative bacteria , and at 2× MIC against Gram-positive bacteria , and it did not affect their membrane permeabilization .
Furthermore , we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ production in Gram-negative with respect to Gram-positive bacteria at 24 h of incubation.Altogether , these results suggest that CS could be an effective treatment for infections caused by MDR Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria .

Due to the emergence of antimicrobial resistance, new alternative therapies are needed. Silver was used to treat bacterial infections since antiquity due to its known antimicrobial properties. Here, we aimed to evaluate the in vitro activity of colloidal silver (CS) against multidrug-resistant (MDR) Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria. A total of 270 strains ((= 45),(= 25),(= 79),(= 58)],(= 34),(= 14), and(= 15)) were used. The minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) of CS was determined for all strains by using microdilution assay, and time-kill curve assays of representative reference and MDR strains of these bacteria were performed. Membrane permeation and bacterial reactive oxygen species (ROS) production were determined in presence of CS. CS MICwas 4-8 mg/L for all strains. CS was bactericidal, during 24 h, at 1× and 2× MIC against Gram-negative bacteria, and at 2× MIC against Gram-positive bacteria, and it did not affect their membrane permeabilization. Furthermore, we found that CS significantly increased the ROS production in Gram-negative with respect to Gram-positive bacteria at 24 h of incubation.Altogether, these results suggest that CS could be an effective treatment for infections caused by MDR Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria.


greenmedinfo--2020-04-02--Ameliorative effect of synthesized silver nanoparticles by green route method from Zingiber zerumbet

Ameliorative effect of synthesized silver nanoparticles by green route method from Zingiber zerumbet on mycoplasmal pneumonia in experimental mice.

( MP ) can infect both the upper and lower respiratory tracts related diseases and a common cause of community-acquired @ @ @ @ @ children and adolescents.
( L . )
belongs to the family of Zingiberaceae and it @ @ @ @ @ plant that cultivates in subtropical and tropical countries .
This plant is traditionally found throughout @ @ @ @ @ region , where it is commonly used in foods , and beverages purposes.is a valuable @ @ @ @ @ bioactive major compounds that fit to a varied diversity of chemical metabolites , including polyphenols @ @ @ @ @ The numerous studies ofhave shown the enormous pharmacological potential of this plant and its derived @ @ @ @ @ of various immune-related diseases like inflammation and other chronic diseases .
Based on the previous @ @ @ @ @ no scientific investigations that claim the antipneumonial activity of thebased silver nanoparticle .
Therefore , @ @ @ @ @ study was designed and evaluated the anti-pneumonial potential of biosynthesized withbased silver nanoparticles in mycoplasmal @ @ @ @ @

(MP) can infect both the upper and lower respiratory tracts related diseases and a common cause of community-acquired pneumonia, mostly in young children and adolescents.(L.) belongs to the family of Zingiberaceae and it is a perennial and aromatic plant that cultivates in subtropical and tropical countries. This plant is traditionally found throughout Southeast Asia and the Pacific region, where it is commonly used in foods, and beverages purposes.is a valuable foundation of diverse classes of bioactive major compounds that fit to a varied diversity of chemical metabolites, including polyphenols, alkaloids and terpenes. The numerous studies ofhave shown the enormous pharmacological potential of this plant and its derived bioactive compounds in the treatment of various immune-related diseases like inflammation and other chronic diseases. Based on the previous scientific reports, there are no scientific investigations that claim the antipneumonial activity of thebased silver nanoparticle. Therefore, the aim of the present study was designed and evaluated the anti-pneumonial potential of biosynthesized withbased silver nanoparticles in mycoplasmal pneumonia in experimental rats.


greenmedinfo--2020-04-02--This is the first in vivo report demonstrating antiviral activity of silver nanoparticles during res

This is the first in vivo report demonstrating antiviral activity of silver nanoparticles during respiratory syncytial virus infection.

Respiratory syncytial virus ( RSV ) is an important etiological agent of respiratory infection in children for which no specific treatment option is available .
The RSV virion contains two surface glycoproteins ( F and G ) that are vital for the initial phases of infection , making them critical targets for RSV therapeutics .
Recent studies have identified the broad-spectrum antiviral properties of silver nanoparticles ( AgNPs ) against respiratory pathogens , such as adenovirus , parainfluenza , and influenza .
AgNPs achieve this by attaching to viral glycoproteins , blocking entry into the host cell .
The objective @ @ @ @ @ @ @ antiviral and immunomodulatory effects of AgNPs in RSV infection .
Herein we demonstrate AgNP-mediated reduction in RSV replication , both in epithelial cell lines and in experimentally infected BALB/c mice .
Marked reduction in pro-inflammatory cytokines ( i.e.
, IL-1α , IL-6 , TNF-α ) and pro-inflammatory chemokines ( i.e.
, CCL2 , CCL3 , CCL5 ) was also observed .
Conversely , CXCL1 , G-CSF , and GM-CSF were increased in RSV-infected mice treated with AgNPs , consistent with an increase of neutrophil recruitment and activation in the lung tissue .
Following @ @ @ @ @ @ @ antiviral effect of AgNPs in mice treated was ablated .
To our knowledge , this is the first in vivo report demonstrating antiviral activity of AgNPs during RSV infection .

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is an important etiological agent of respiratory infection in children for which no specific treatment option is available. The RSV virion contains two surface glycoproteins (F and G) that are vital for the initial phases of infection, making them critical targets for RSV therapeutics. Recent studies have identified the broad-spectrum antiviral properties of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) against respiratory pathogens, such as adenovirus, parainfluenza, and influenza. AgNPs achieve this by attaching to viral glycoproteins, blocking entry into the host cell. The objective of this study was to evaluate the antiviral and immunomodulatory effects of AgNPs in RSV infection. Herein we demonstrate AgNP-mediated reduction in RSV replication, both in epithelial cell lines and in experimentally infected BALB/c mice. Marked reduction in pro-inflammatory cytokines (i.e., IL-1α, IL-6, TNF-α) and pro-inflammatory chemokines (i.e., CCL2, CCL3, CCL5) was also observed. Conversely, CXCL1, G-CSF, and GM-CSF were increased in RSV-infected mice treated with AgNPs, consistent with an increase of neutrophil recruitment and activation in the lung tissue. Following experimental antibody-dependent depletion of neutrophils, the antiviral effect of AgNPs in mice treated was ablated. To our knowledge, this is the first in vivo report demonstrating antiviral activity of AgNPs during RSV infection.


greenmedinfo--2020-04-02--Low dose of vitamin D3 can effectively protect the lung from the damage induced by cigarette smoke.

Cigarette smoking is known to induce serious lung diseases , but there is not an effective method to solve this @ @ @ @ @ investigated vitamin D3 on over-expression of CXCR3 and CXCL10 in mice induced by cigarette smoking @ @ @ @ @ was designed , and morphological assessment of emphysema , IL-4 , IFN-γ and CXCL10 concentration @ @ @ @ @ expression of CXCR3 and CXCL10 were detected .
Emphysema of the mice only exposed to @ @ @ @ @ and concentration of IL-4 , IFN-γ and CXCL10 was also increased .
In addition , @ @ @ @ @ .
The degree of emphysema , concentration of IL-4 , IFN-γ and CXCL10 , and @ @ @ @ @ in mice administrated with low dose vitamin D3 were similar to the normally treated mice @ @ @ @ @ D3 can effectively protect the lung from the damage induced by cigarette smoke .

Cigarette smoking is known to induce serious lung diseases, but there is not an effective method to solve this problem. The present study investigated vitamin D3 on over-expression of CXCR3 and CXCL10 in mice induced by cigarette smoking. A pulmonary airway model was designed, and morphological assessment of emphysema, IL-4, IFN-γ and CXCL10 concentration in bronchoalveolar lavage fluids, expression of CXCR3 and CXCL10 were detected. Emphysema of the mice only exposed to cigarette smoke was significant, and concentration of IL-4, IFN-γ and CXCL10 was also increased. In addition, CXCR3 and CXCL10 were over-expressed. The degree of emphysema, concentration of IL-4, IFN-γ and CXCL10, and expression of CXCR3 and CXCL10 in mice administrated with low dose vitamin D3 were similar to the normally treated mice. Low dose of vitamin D3 can effectively protect the lung from the damage induced by cigarette smoke.


greenmedinfo--2020-04-02--Supplementation with vitamin C appears to be able to both prevent and treat respiratory and systemic

Supplementation with vitamin C appears to be able to both prevent and treat respiratory and systemic infections.

Vitamin C is an essential micronutrient for humans , with pleiotropic functions related to its ability to donate electrons .
It is a potent antioxidant and a cofactor for a family of biosynthetic and gene regulatory enzymes .
Vitamin C contributes to immune defense by supporting various cellular functions of both the innate and adaptive immune system .
Vitamin C supports epithelial barrier function against pathogens and promotes the oxidant scavenging activity of the skin , thereby potentially protecting against environmental oxidative stress .
Vitamin C accumulates in phagocytic cells , such as neutrophils , and can enhance chemotaxis , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and ultimately microbial killing .
It is also needed for apoptosis and clearance of the spent neutrophils from sites of infection by macrophages , thereby decreasing necrosis/NETosis and potential tissue damage .
The role of vitamin C in lymphocytes is less clear , but it has been shown to enhance differentiation and proliferation of B- and T-cells , likely due to its gene regulating effects .
Vitamin C deficiency results in impaired immunity and higher susceptibility to infections .
In turn , infections significantly impact on vitamin C levels due to enhanced @ @ @ @ @ @ @ supplementation with vitamin C appears to be able to both prevent and treat respiratory and systemic infections .
Prophylactic prevention of infection requires dietary vitamin C intakes that provide at least adequate , if not saturating plasma levels ( i.e.
, 100-200 mg/day ) , which optimize cell and tissue levels .
In contrast , treatment of established infections requires significantly higher ( gram ) doses of the vitamin to compensate for the increased inflammatory response and metabolic demand .

Vitamin C is an essential micronutrient for humans, with pleiotropic functions related to its ability to donate electrons. It is a potent antioxidant and a cofactor for a family of biosynthetic and gene regulatory enzymes. Vitamin C contributes to immune defense by supporting various cellular functions of both the innate and adaptive immune system. Vitamin C supports epithelial barrier function against pathogens and promotes the oxidant scavenging activity of the skin, thereby potentially protecting against environmental oxidative stress. Vitamin C accumulates in phagocytic cells, such as neutrophils, and can enhance chemotaxis, phagocytosis, generation of reactive oxygen species, and ultimately microbial killing. It is also needed for apoptosis and clearance of the spent neutrophils from sites of infection by macrophages, thereby decreasing necrosis/NETosis and potential tissue damage. The role of vitamin C in lymphocytes is less clear, but it has been shown to enhance differentiation and proliferation of B- and T-cells, likely due to its gene regulating effects. Vitamin C deficiency results in impaired immunity and higher susceptibility to infections. In turn, infections significantly impact on vitamin C levels due to enhanced inflammation and metabolic requirements. Furthermore, supplementation with vitamin C appears to be able to both prevent and treat respiratory and systemic infections. Prophylactic prevention of infection requires dietary vitamin C intakes that provide at least adequate, if not saturating plasma levels (i.e., 100-200 mg/day), which optimize cell and tissue levels. In contrast, treatment of established infections requires significantly higher (gram) doses of the vitamin to compensate for the increased inflammatory response and metabolic demand.


greenmedinfo--2020-04-03--Vitamin D modulates the epigenome of immune cells during perturbations by antigens and other immunol

Vitamin D modulates the epigenome of immune cells during perturbations by antigens and other immunological challenges.

The vitamin Dmetabolite 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D ( 1,25 ( OH ) D ) activates at sub-nanomolar concentrations the transcription factor vitamin D receptor ( VDR ) .
VDR is primarily involved in the control of cellular metabolism but in addition modulates processes important for immunity , such as anti-microbial defense and the induction of T cell tolerance .
Monocytes and their differentiated phenotypes , macrophages and dendritic cells , are key cell types of the innate immune system , in which vitamin D signaling was most comprehensively investigatedthe use of next generation sequencing technologies .
These investigations provided genome-wide maps illustrating @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Don the binding of VDR , the pioneer transcription factors purine-rich box 1 ( PU.1 ) and CCAAT/enhancer binding proteinα ( CEBPA ) and the chromatin modifier CCCTC-binding factor ( CTCF ) as well as on chromatin accessibility and histone markers of promoter and enhancer regions , H3K4me3 and H3K27ac .
Thus , the epigenome of human monocytes is at multiple levels sensitive to vitamin D. These data served as the basis for the chromatin model of vitamin D signaling , which mechanistically explains the activation of a few hundred primary vitamin D @ @ @ @ @ @ @ effects of vitamin D were also described in peripheral blood mononuclear cells isolated from individuals before and after supplementation with a vitamin Dbolus .
This review will conclude with the hypothesis that vitamin D modulates the epigenome of immune cells during perturbations by antigens and other immunological challenges suggesting that an optimal vitamin D status may be essential for an effective epigenetic learning process , in particular of the innate immune system .

The vitamin Dmetabolite 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D(1,25(OH)D) activates at sub-nanomolar concentrations the transcription factor vitamin D receptor (VDR). VDR is primarily involved in the control of cellular metabolism but in addition modulates processes important for immunity, such as anti-microbial defense and the induction of T cell tolerance. Monocytes and their differentiated phenotypes, macrophages and dendritic cells, are key cell types of the innate immune system, in which vitamin D signaling was most comprehensively investigatedthe use of next generation sequencing technologies. These investigations provided genome-wide maps illustrating significant effects of 1,25(OH)Don the binding of VDR, the pioneer transcription factors purine-rich box 1 (PU.1) and CCAAT/enhancer binding proteinα (CEBPA) and the chromatin modifier CCCTC-binding factor (CTCF) as well as on chromatin accessibility and histone markers of promoter and enhancer regions, H3K4me3 and H3K27ac. Thus, the epigenome of human monocytes is at multiple levels sensitive to vitamin D. These data served as the basis for the chromatin model of vitamin D signaling, which mechanistically explains the activation of a few hundred primary vitamin D target genes. Comparable epigenome- and transcriptome-wide effects of vitamin D were also described in peripheral blood mononuclear cells isolated from individuals before and after supplementation with a vitamin Dbolus. This review will conclude with the hypothesis that vitamin D modulates the epigenome of immune cells during perturbations by antigens and other immunological challenges suggesting that an optimal vitamin D status may be essential for an effective epigenetic learning process, in particular of the innate immune system.


greenmedinfo--2020-04-03--Effect of high doses of vitamin D supplementation on dengue virus replication.

Dengue , caused by dengue virus ( DENV ) infection , is a public health problem worldwide .
Although DENV pathogenesis has not yet been fully elucidated , the inflammatory response is a hallmark feature in severe DENV infection .
Although vitamin D ( vitD ) can promote the innate immune response against virus infection , no studies have evaluated the effects of vitD on DENV infection , dendritic cells ( DCs ) , and inflammatory response regulation .
This study aimed to assess the impact of oral vitD supplementation on DENV-2 infection , Toll-like receptor ( TLR ) expression @ @ @ @ @ @ @ production in monocyte-derived DCs ( MDDCs ) .
To accomplish this , 20 healthy donors were randomly divided into two groups and received either 1000 or 4000 international units ( IU ) /day of vitD for 10 days .
During pre- and post-vitD supplementation , peripheral blood samples were taken to obtain MDDCs , which were challenged with DENV-2 .
We found that MDDCs from donors who received 4000 IU/day of vitD were less susceptible to DENV-2 infection than MDDCs from donors who received 1000 IU/day of vitD .
Moreover , these cells @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 7 , and 9 ; downregulation of IL-12/IL-8 production ; and increased IL-10 secretion in response to DENV-2 infection .
In conclusion , the administration of 4000 IU/day of vitD decreased DENV-2 infection .
Our findings support a possiblerole of vitD in improving the innate immune response against DENV .
However , further studies are necessary to determine the role of vitD on DENV replication and its innate immune response modulation in MDDCs .

Dengue, caused by dengue virus (DENV) infection, is a public health problem worldwide. Although DENV pathogenesis has not yet been fully elucidated, the inflammatory response is a hallmark feature in severe DENV infection. Although vitamin D (vitD) can promote the innate immune response against virus infection, no studies have evaluated the effects of vitD on DENV infection, dendritic cells (DCs), and inflammatory response regulation. This study aimed to assess the impact of oral vitD supplementation on DENV-2 infection, Toll-like receptor (TLR) expression, and both pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokine production in monocyte-derived DCs (MDDCs). To accomplish this, 20 healthy donors were randomly divided into two groups and received either 1000 or 4000 international units (IU)/day of vitD for 10 days. During pre- and post-vitD supplementation, peripheral blood samples were taken to obtain MDDCs, which were challenged with DENV-2. We found that MDDCs from donors who received 4000 IU/day of vitD were less susceptible to DENV-2 infection than MDDCs from donors who received 1000 IU/day of vitD. Moreover, these cells showed decreased mRNA expression of TLR3, 7, and 9; downregulation of IL-12/IL-8 production; and increased IL-10 secretion in response to DENV-2 infection. In conclusion, the administration of 4000 IU/day of vitD decreased DENV-2 infection. Our findings support a possiblerole of vitD in improving the innate immune response against DENV. However, further studies are necessary to determine the role of vitD on DENV replication and its innate immune response modulation in MDDCs.


greenmedinfo--2020-04-03--Oral vitamin A supplementation of porcine epidemic diarrhea virus infected gilts enhances IgA and la

Oral vitamin A supplementation of porcine epidemic diarrhea virus infected gilts enhances IgA and lactogenic immune protection.

Vitamin A ( VA ) has pleiotropic effects on the immune system and is critical for mucosal immune function and intestinal lymphocyte trafficking .
We hypothesized that oral VA supplementation of porcine epidemic diarrhea virus ( PEDV ) -infected pregnant gilts would enhance the gut-mammary gland-secretory IgA axis to boost lactogenic immunity and passive protection of nursing piglets against PEDV challenge .
Gilts received daily oral retinyl acetate ( 30 000 IU ) starting at gestation day 76 throughout lactation .
At 3-4 weeks pre-partum , VA-supplemented ( PEDV + VA ) and non-supplemented ( PEDV ) gilts were PEDV @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and mock , respectively ) .
PEDV + VA gilts had decreased mean PEDV RNA shedding titers and diarrheascores .
To determine if lactogenic immunity correlated with protection , all piglets were PEDV-challenged at 3-5 days post-partum .
The survival rate of PEDV + VA litters was 74.2 % compared with 55.9 % in PEDV litters .
Mock and mock + VA litter survival rates were 5.7 % and 8.3 % , respectively.PEDV + VA gilts had increased PEDV IgA antibody secreting cells and PEDV IgA antibodies in serum pre-partum and IgAβ7 ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ piglet challenge compared with PEDV gilts .
Our findings suggest that oral VA supplementation may act as an adjuvant during pregnancy , enhancing maternal IgA and lactogenic immune protection in nursing piglets .

Vitamin A (VA) has pleiotropic effects on the immune system and is critical for mucosal immune function and intestinal lymphocyte trafficking. We hypothesized that oral VA supplementation of porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV)-infected pregnant gilts would enhance the gut-mammary gland-secretory IgA axis to boost lactogenic immunity and passive protection of nursing piglets against PEDV challenge. Gilts received daily oral retinyl acetate (30 000 IU) starting at gestation day 76 throughout lactation. At 3-4 weeks pre-partum, VA-supplemented (PEDV + VA) and non-supplemented (PEDV) gilts were PEDV or mock inoculated (mock + VA and mock, respectively). PEDV + VA gilts had decreased mean PEDV RNA shedding titers and diarrheascores. To determine if lactogenic immunity correlated with protection, all piglets were PEDV-challenged at 3-5 days post-partum. The survival rate of PEDV + VA litters was 74.2% compared with 55.9% in PEDV litters. Mock and mock + VA litter survival rates were 5.7% and 8.3%, respectively.PEDV + VA gilts had increased PEDV IgA antibody secreting cells and PEDV IgA antibodies in serum pre-partum and IgAβ7(gut homing) cells in milk post piglet challenge compared with PEDV gilts. Our findings suggest that oral VA supplementation may act as an adjuvant during pregnancy, enhancing maternal IgA and lactogenic immune protection in nursing piglets.


greenmedinfo--2020-04-03--Fucoxanthin in association with vitamin C acts as modulators of human neutrophil function.

INTRODUCTION : Neutrophils provide the first line of defense of the innate immune system by phagocytosing , killing and digesting bacteria and fungi .
During this process , neutrophils produce reactive oxygen species ( ROS ) , which in excess , can damage the cells themselves and surrounding tissues .
The carotenoid fucoxanthin ( Fc ) has been studied concerning its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions .
Vitamin c ( Vc ) also demonstrates potent antioxidant action .
This study aimed to evaluate the effect of Fc ( 2μM ) in association with Vc ( 100 μM ) on functional parameters @ @ @ @ @ @ @ AND METHODS : We evaluated the migration and phagocytic capacity , intracellular calcium mobilization , ROS production ( O₂ ( · ) ⁻ , H₂O₂ , HOCl ) , myeloperoxidase activity , profile of antioxidant enzymes , phosphorylation of p38 MAPK and p65 NFκB subunit , GSH/GSSG ratio and release of pro-inflammatory cytokines ( TNF-α and IL-6 ) in neutrophils under different stimuli .
RESULTS : We verified an increase in phagocytic capacity for all treatments , together with an increase in intracellular calcium only in cells treated with Fc and Fc + @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all treatments , although Vc was a better antioxidant than Fc .
Phosphorylation of the p-65 subunit of NFκB was reduced in cells treated with Fc + Vc and release of TNF-α and IL-6 was reduced by all treatments .
These findings indicate that the regulation of inflammatory cytokines by neutrophils is not exclusively under the control of the NFκB pathway .
Fc reduced the activity of some antioxidant enzymes , whereas Vc increased GR activity and the GSH/GSSG ratio .
CONCLUSION : In conclusion , the results presented in this study clearly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fc alone or in combination with Vc on the function of human neutrophils .

INTRODUCTION: Neutrophils provide the first line of defense of the innate immune system by phagocytosing, killing and digesting bacteria and fungi. During this process, neutrophils produce reactive oxygen species (ROS), which in excess, can damage the cells themselves and surrounding tissues. The carotenoid fucoxanthin (Fc) has been studied concerning its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions. Vitamin c (Vc) also demonstrates potent antioxidant action. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of Fc (2μM) in association with Vc (100 μM) on functional parameters of human neutrophils in vitro.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: We evaluated the migration and phagocytic capacity, intracellular calcium mobilization, ROS production (O₂(·)⁻, H₂O₂, HOCl), myeloperoxidase activity, profile of antioxidant enzymes, phosphorylation of p38 MAPK and p65 NFκB subunit, GSH/GSSG ratio and release of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α and IL-6) in neutrophils under different stimuli.
RESULTS: We verified an increase in phagocytic capacity for all treatments, together with an increase in intracellular calcium only in cells treated with Fc and Fc + Vc. ROS production was reduced by all treatments, although Vc was a better antioxidant than Fc. Phosphorylation of the p-65 subunit of NFκB was reduced in cells treated with Fc + Vc and release of TNF-α and IL-6 was reduced by all treatments. These findings indicate that the regulation of inflammatory cytokines by neutrophils is not exclusively under the control of the NFκB pathway. Fc reduced the activity of some antioxidant enzymes, whereas Vc increased GR activity and the GSH/GSSG ratio.
CONCLUSION: In conclusion, the results presented in this study clearly show an immunomodulatory effect of the carotenoid fc alone or in combination with Vc on the function of human neutrophils.


greenmedinfo--2020-04-03--Vitamin D signaling maintains intestinal innate immunity and gut microbiota.

A lack of sunlight exposure , residence in the northern latitudes , and dietary vitamin D insufficiency are coprevalent with metabolic syndrome ( MetS ) , Type 2 diabetes ( T2D ) , and nonalcoholic fatty liver diseases ( NAFLD ) , implying a potential causality and underlying mechanism .
Whether vitamin D supplementation or treatment can improve these disorders is controversial , in part , because of the absence of large-scale trials .
Experimental investigations , on the other hand , have uncovered novel biological functions of vitamin D in development , tumor suppression , and immune regulation , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ vitamin that maintained calcium homeostasis .
While the large intestine harbors massive numbers of microbes , the small intestine has a minimal quantity of bacteria , indicating the existence of a gating system located in the distal region of the small intestine that may restrain bacterial translocation to the small intestine .
Vitamin D receptor ( VDR ) was found to be highly expressed at the distal region of small intestine , where the vitamin D signaling promotes innate immunity , including the expression ofα-defensins by Paneth cells , and maintains the intestinal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hypothesis is emerging , indicating that vitamin D deficiency may impair the intestinal innate immunity , including downregulation of Paneth cell defensins , leading to bacterial translocation , endotoxemia , systemicinflammation , insulin resistance , and hepatic steatosis .
Here , we review the studies for vitamin D for innate immunity and metabolic homeostasis , and we outline the clinical trials of vitamin D for mitigating MetS , T2D , and NAFLD .

A lack of sunlight exposure, residence in the northern latitudes, and dietary vitamin D insufficiency are coprevalent with metabolic syndrome (MetS), Type 2 diabetes (T2D), and nonalcoholic fatty liver diseases (NAFLD), implying a potential causality and underlying mechanism. Whether vitamin D supplementation or treatment can improve these disorders is controversial, in part, because of the absence of large-scale trials. Experimental investigations, on the other hand, have uncovered novel biological functions of vitamin D in development, tumor suppression, and immune regulation, far beyond its original role as a vitamin that maintained calcium homeostasis. While the large intestine harbors massive numbers of microbes, the small intestine has a minimal quantity of bacteria, indicating the existence of a gating system located in the distal region of the small intestine that may restrain bacterial translocation to the small intestine. Vitamin D receptor (VDR) was found to be highly expressed at the distal region of small intestine, where the vitamin D signaling promotes innate immunity, including the expression ofα-defensins by Paneth cells, and maintains the intestinal tight junctions. Thus, a new hypothesis is emerging, indicating that vitamin D deficiency may impair the intestinal innate immunity, including downregulation of Paneth cell defensins, leading to bacterial translocation, endotoxemia, systemicinflammation, insulin resistance, and hepatic steatosis. Here, we review the studies for vitamin D for innate immunity and metabolic homeostasis, and we outline the clinical trials of vitamin D for mitigating MetS, T2D, and NAFLD.


greenmedinfo--2020-04-03--Relationships between vitamin D, gut microbiome, and systemic autoimmunity.

There is increasing recognition of the role the microbiome plays in states of health and disease .
Microbiome studies in @ @ @ @ @ microbial patterns in Inflammatory Bowel Disease , Rheumatoid Arthritis , and Systemic Lupus Erythematosus to @ @ @ @ @ there is no single bug or pattern that characterizes Multiple Sclerosis .
Autoimmune diseases tend @ @ @ @ @ vitamin D deficiency , which alters the microbiome and integrity of the gut epithelial barrier @ @ @ @ @ we summarize the influence of intestinal bacteria on the immune system , explore the microbial @ @ @ @ @ studies on autoimmune diseases , and discuss how vitamin D deficiency may contribute to autoimmunity @ @ @ @ @ intestinal barrier function , microbiome composition , and/or direct effects on immune responses .

There is increasing recognition of the role the microbiome plays in states of health and disease. Microbiome studies in systemic autoimmune diseases demonstrate unique microbial patterns in Inflammatory Bowel Disease, Rheumatoid Arthritis, and Systemic Lupus Erythematosus to a lesser extent, whereas there is no single bug or pattern that characterizes Multiple Sclerosis. Autoimmune diseases tend to share a predisposition for vitamin D deficiency, which alters the microbiome and integrity of the gut epithelial barrier. In this review, we summarize the influence of intestinal bacteria on the immune system, explore the microbial patterns that have emerged from studies on autoimmune diseases, and discuss how vitamin D deficiency may contribute to autoimmunity via its effects on the intestinal barrier function, microbiome composition, and/or direct effects on immune responses.


greenmedinfo--2020-04-03--Flavonoid mixture inhibits Mycobacterium tuberculosis survival and infectivity.

BACKGROUND : Flavonoids have been shown to exert anti-pathogenic potential , but few studies have investigated their effects on ( ) infectivity .
We hypothesized that a flavonoid mixture would have a favorable influence on cell death and the resolution ofinfection in THP-1 macrophages and in granulomas derived from both healthy participants and those with type 2 diabetes mellitus ( T2DM ) .
METHODS : THP-1 macrophages , and in vitro granulomas from healthy participants ( = 8 ) and individuals with T2DM ( = 5 ) were infected with .
A mixed flavonoid supplement ( MFS ) at a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ added as treatment toinfected THP-1 macrophages and granulomas for 8 to 15 days .
RESULTS : MFS treatment significantly reduced the intracellularsurvival , increased cell density , aggregation , and granuloma formation , and increased glutathione ( GSH ) levels .
IL-12 and IFN-γ levels tended to be higher and IL-10 lower wheninfected THP-1 macrophages and granulomas obtained from healthy subjects were treated with MFS compared to control .
CONCLUSIONS : MFS treatment exerted a strong influence againstinfectivity in THP-1 macrophages and in granulomas including antimycobacterial effects , GSH enrichment , cytokine regulation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ data support the strategy of increased flavonoid intake for managing tuberculosis .

BACKGROUND: Flavonoids have been shown to exert anti-pathogenic potential, but few studies have investigated their effects on() infectivity. We hypothesized that a flavonoid mixture would have a favorable influence on cell death and the resolution ofinfection in THP-1 macrophages and in granulomas derived from both healthy participants and those with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).
METHODS: THP-1 macrophages, and in vitro granulomas from healthy participants (= 8) and individuals with T2DM (= 5) were infected with. A mixed flavonoid supplement (MFS) at a concentration of 0.69 mg per ml was added as treatment toinfected THP-1 macrophages and granulomas for 8 to 15 days.
RESULTS: MFS treatment significantly reduced the intracellularsurvival, increased cell density, aggregation, and granuloma formation, and increased glutathione (GSH) levels. IL-12 and IFN-γ levels tended to be higher and IL-10 lower wheninfected THP-1 macrophages and granulomas obtained from healthy subjects were treated with MFS compared to control.
CONCLUSIONS: MFS treatment exerted a strong influence againstinfectivity in THP-1 macrophages and in granulomas including antimycobacterial effects, GSH enrichment, cytokine regulation, and augmented granuloma formation. Our data support the strategy of increased flavonoid intake for managing tuberculosis.


greenmedinfo--2020-04-03--Moderate intensity exercise is able to modulate the Th1 response that provides a protective effect a

Moderate intensity exercise is able to modulate the Th1 response that provides a protective effect against the development of leishmanial lesions.

Physical exercise has been described as an important tool in the prevention and treatment of numerous diseases as it promotes a range of responses and adaptations in several biological systems , including the immune system .
Studies on the effect of exercise on the immune system could play a critical role in improving public health .
Current literature suggests that moderate intensity exercise can modulate the Th1/Th2 dichotomy directing the immune system to a Th1 cellular immune response , which favors the resolution of infections caused by intracellular microorganisms .
Leishmaniasis is a group of diseases presenting a wide spectrum @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lesions to visceral injuries whose severity can lead to death .
The etiological agents responsible for this group of diseases are protozoa of the genus Leishmania .
Infections by the parasitein mice ( Balb/c ) provide a prototype model for the polarization of CD4+ T cell responses of both Th1 ( resistance ) or Th2 ( susceptibility ) , which determines the progression of infections .
The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of exercise on the development ofexperimental infections by scanning the pattern of immune response caused by exercise @ @ @ @ @ @ @ divided into groups that preformed a physical exercise of swimming three times a week or were sedentary along with treatment or not with the reference drug , meglumine antimoniate .
Animals in groups submitted to physical exercise did not appear to develop lesions and presented a significantly lower parasite load independent of drug treatment .
They also showed a positive delayed hypersensitivity response to a specificantigen compared to control animals .
The IFN-γ/IL-4 and IFN-γ/IL10 ratios in trained animals were clearly tilted to a Th1 response in lymph node cells .
These data @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to modulate the Th1 response that provides a protective effect against the development of leishmanial lesions .

Physical exercise has been described as an important tool in the prevention and treatment of numerous diseases as it promotes a range of responses and adaptations in several biological systems, including the immune system. Studies on the effect of exercise on the immune system could play a critical role in improving public health. Current literature suggests that moderate intensity exercise can modulate the Th1/Th2 dichotomy directing the immune system to a Th1 cellular immune response, which favors the resolution of infections caused by intracellular microorganisms. Leishmaniasis is a group of diseases presenting a wide spectrum of clinical manifestations that range from self-limiting lesions to visceral injuries whose severity can lead to death. The etiological agents responsible for this group of diseases are protozoa of the genus Leishmania. Infections by the parasitein mice (Balb/c) provide a prototype model for the polarization of CD4+ T cell responses of both Th1 (resistance) or Th2 (susceptibility), which determines the progression of infections. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of exercise on the development ofexperimental infections by scanning the pattern of immune response caused by exercise. Groups of Balb/c mice infected withwere divided into groups that preformed a physical exercise of swimming three times a week or were sedentary along with treatment or not with the reference drug, meglumine antimoniate. Animals in groups submitted to physical exercise did not appear to develop lesions and presented a significantly lower parasite load independent of drug treatment. They also showed a positive delayed hypersensitivity response to a specificantigen compared to control animals. The IFN-γ/IL-4 and IFN-γ/IL10 ratios in trained animals were clearly tilted to a Th1 response in lymph node cells. These data suggest that moderate intensity exercise is able to modulate the Th1 response that provides a protective effect against the development of leishmanial lesions.


greenmedinfo--2020-04-03--These trials document that adequate intakes of vitamin C and zinc ameliorate symptoms and shorten th

Vitamin C concentrations in the plasma and leukocytes rapidly decline during infections and stress .
Supplementation of vitamin C was found to improve components of the human immune system such as antimicrobial and natural killer cell activities , lymphocyte proliferation , chemotaxis , and delayed-type hypersensitivity .
Vitamin C contributes to maintaining the redox integrity of cells and thereby protects them against reactive oxygen species generated during the respiratory burst and in the inflammatory response .
Likewise , zinc undernutrition or deficiency was shown to impair cellular mediators of innate immunity such as phagocytosis , natural killer cell activity , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Therefore , both nutrients play important roles in immune function and the modulation of host resistance to infectious agents , reducing the risk , severity , and duration of infectious diseases .
This is of special importance in populations in which insufficient intake of these nutrients is prevalent .
In the developing world , this is the case in low- and middle-income countries , but also in subpopulations in industrialized countries , e.g .
in the elderly .
A large number of randomized controlled intervention trials with intakes of up to 1 g @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mg of zinc are available .
These trials document that adequate intakes of vitamin C and zinc ameliorate symptoms and shorten the duration of respiratory tract infections including the common cold .
Furthermore , vitamin C and zinc reduce the incidence and improve the outcome of pneumonia , malaria , and diarrhea infections , especially in children in developing countries .

Vitamin C concentrations in the plasma and leukocytes rapidly decline during infections and stress. Supplementation of vitamin C was found to improve components of the human immune system such as antimicrobial and natural killer cell activities, lymphocyte proliferation, chemotaxis, and delayed-type hypersensitivity. Vitamin C contributes to maintaining the redox integrity of cells and thereby protects them against reactive oxygen species generated during the respiratory burst and in the inflammatory response. Likewise, zinc undernutrition or deficiency was shown to impair cellular mediators of innate immunity such as phagocytosis, natural killer cell activity, and the generation of oxidative burst. Therefore, both nutrients play important roles in immune function and the modulation of host resistance to infectious agents, reducing the risk, severity, and duration of infectious diseases. This is of special importance in populations in which insufficient intake of these nutrients is prevalent. In the developing world, this is the case in low- and middle-income countries, but also in subpopulations in industrialized countries, e.g. in the elderly. A large number of randomized controlled intervention trials with intakes of up to 1 g of vitamin C and up to 30 mg of zinc are available. These trials document that adequate intakes of vitamin C and zinc ameliorate symptoms and shorten the duration of respiratory tract infections including the common cold. Furthermore, vitamin C and zinc reduce the incidence and improve the outcome of pneumonia, malaria, and diarrhea infections, especially in children in developing countries.


greenmedinfo--2020-04-03--Consumption of gold kiwifruit reduces severity and duration of selected upper respiratory tract infe

Consumption of gold kiwifruit reduces severity and duration of selected upper respiratory tract infection symptoms.

In the elderly , immunosenescence and malnourishment can contribute to increased risk and severity of upper respiratory tract infections ( URTI ) .
Gold kiwifruit ( Actinidia chinensis 'Hort16A ' ) contains nutrients important for immune function and mitigation of symptoms of infection , including vitamins C and E , folate , polyphenols and carotenoids .
The objective of the present study was to evaluate whether regular consumption of gold kiwifruit reduces symptoms of URTI in older people , and determine the effect it has on plasma antioxidants , and markers of oxidative stress , inflammation and immune function .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ ≥65 years ) participated in a randomised crossover study , consuming the equivalent of four kiwifruit or two bananas daily for 4 weeks , with treatments separated by a 4-week washout period .
Participants completed the Wisconsin Upper Respiratory Symptom Survey-21 daily , and blood samples were collected at baseline and at the end of each treatment and washout period .
Gold kiwifruit did not significantly reduce the overall incidence of URTI compared with banana , but significantly reduced the severity and duration of head congestion , and the duration of sore throat @ @ @ @ @ @ @ C , α-tocopherol and lutein/zeaxanthin concentrations , and erythrocyte folate concentrations , and significantly reduced plasma lipid peroxidation .
No changes to innate immune function ( natural killer cell activity , phagocytosis ) or inflammation markers ( high-sensitivity C-reactive protein , homocysteine ) were detected .
Consumption of gold kiwifruit enhanced the concentrations of several dietary plasma analytes , which may contribute to reduced duration and severity of selected URTI symptoms , offering a novel tool for reducing the burden of URTI in older individuals .

In the elderly, immunosenescence and malnourishment can contribute to increased risk and severity of upper respiratory tract infections (URTI). Gold kiwifruit (Actinidia chinensis 'Hort16A') contains nutrients important for immune function and mitigation of symptoms of infection, including vitamins C and E, folate, polyphenols and carotenoids. The objective of the present study was to evaluate whether regular consumption of gold kiwifruit reduces symptoms of URTI in older people, and determine the effect it has on plasma antioxidants, and markers of oxidative stress, inflammation and immune function. A total of thirty-two community-dwelling people (≥65 years) participated in a randomised crossover study, consuming the equivalent of four kiwifruit or two bananas daily for 4 weeks, with treatments separated by a 4-week washout period. Participants completed the Wisconsin Upper Respiratory Symptom Survey-21 daily, and blood samples were collected at baseline and at the end of each treatment and washout period. Gold kiwifruit did not significantly reduce the overall incidence of URTI compared with banana, but significantly reduced the severity and duration of head congestion, and the duration of sore throat. Gold kiwifruit significantly increased plasma vitamin C, α-tocopherol and lutein/zeaxanthin concentrations, and erythrocyte folate concentrations, and significantly reduced plasma lipid peroxidation. No changes to innate immune function (natural killer cell activity, phagocytosis) or inflammation markers (high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, homocysteine) were detected. Consumption of gold kiwifruit enhanced the concentrations of several dietary plasma analytes, which may contribute to reduced duration and severity of selected URTI symptoms, offering a novel tool for reducing the burden of URTI in older individuals.


greenmedinfo--2020-04-03--Melatonin could be a promising novel therapeutic approach against viral myocarditis.

Current therapeutics options for viral myocarditis are unsatisfactory .
Melatonin ( MLT ) , a hormone secreted by the pineal @ @ @ @ @ has protective effects on ischemic heart injury .
However , the potential therapeutic effect of @ @ @ @ @ unknown .
In this study , we investigated the protective effect of MLT on viral @ @ @ @ @ of myocarditis infected with coxsackievirus B3 ( CVB3 ) and explored the probable mechanisms .
@ @ @ @ @ inflammatory cell infiltration and interstitial edema .
MLT treatment significantly ameliorated the myocardial injuries .
@ @ @ @ @ of autophagy changed , although apoptosis was inhibited in mouse hearts following treatment with MLT @ @ @ @ @ MLT has a strong therapeutic effect on acute viral myocarditis , which is associated with @ @ @ @ @ in the heart .
Thus , MLT could be a promising novel therapeutic approach against @ @ @

Current therapeutics options for viral myocarditis are unsatisfactory. Melatonin (MLT), a hormone secreted by the pineal gland and other organs, has protective effects on ischemic heart injury. However, the potential therapeutic effect of MLT on viral myocarditis is unknown. In this study, we investigated the protective effect of MLT on viral myocarditis in a mouse model of myocarditis infected with coxsackievirus B3 (CVB3) and explored the probable mechanisms. Mice with CVB3-induced myocarditis displayed inflammatory cell infiltration and interstitial edema. MLT treatment significantly ameliorated the myocardial injuries. In addition, the rate of autophagy changed, although apoptosis was inhibited in mouse hearts following treatment with MLT. These results suggest that MLT has a strong therapeutic effect on acute viral myocarditis, which is associated with changes in autophagy and apoptosis in the heart. Thus, MLT could be a promising novel therapeutic approach against viral myocarditis.


greenmedinfo--2020-04-03--Ascorbic acid: its role in immune system and chronic inflammation diseases.

Ascorbic acid ( AA ) , also known as vitamin C , was initially identified as the factor preventing the scurvy disease , and became very popular for its antioxidant properties .
It is an important co-substrate of a large class of enzymes , and regulates gene expression by interacting with important transcription factors .
AA is important in all stressful conditions that are linked to inflammatory processes and involve immunity .
It has been known for decades that the persistence of an inflammatory stimulus is responsible for the onset of many diseases .
AA is essential to stimulate the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ protection of the organism .
Therefore , its immunostimulant , antinflammatory , antiviral and antibacterial roles are well known , we have summarized its main functions in different types of diseases related to the immune system and chronic inflammation .
We can conclude that AA , due to its effects and diversity of regulated pathways , is suitable for use in various fields of medicine including immunology , toxicology , radiobiology and others .
AA is not preferable to be used as an isolated mode of treatment , but it can be co-applied @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gene expression and other important physiological processes .
However , we propose that future studies will take into consideration the research of new combinations of antioxidant natural substances and drugs .

Ascorbic acid (AA), also known as vitamin C, was initially identified as the factor preventing the scurvy disease, and became very popular for its antioxidant properties. It is an important co-substrate of a large class of enzymes, and regulates gene expression by interacting with important transcription factors. AA is important in all stressful conditions that are linked to inflammatory processes and involve immunity. It has been known for decades that the persistence of an inflammatory stimulus is responsible for the onset of many diseases. AA is essential to stimulate the immune system by increasing the strength and protection of the organism. Therefore, its immunostimulant, antinflammatory, antiviral and antibacterial roles are well known, we have summarized its main functions in different types of diseases related to the immune system and chronic inflammation. We can conclude that AA, due to its effects and diversity of regulated pathways, is suitable for use in various fields of medicine including immunology, toxicology, radiobiology and others. AA is not preferable to be used as an isolated mode of treatment, but it can be co-applied as an adjuvant to regulate immunity, gene expression and other important physiological processes. However, we propose that future studies will take into consideration the research of new combinations of antioxidant natural substances and drugs.


greenmedinfo--2020-04-03--Short-term effect of ascorbate on bacterial content, plasminogen activator inhibitor-1, and myeloper

Short-term effect of ascorbate on bacterial content, plasminogen activator inhibitor-1, and myeloperoxidase in septic mice.

BACKGROUND : Sepsis , a potential risk associated with surgery , leads to a systemic inflammatory response including the plugging of capillary beds .
This plugging may precipitate organ failure and subsequent death .
We have shown that capillary plugging can be reversed rapidly within 1 h by intravenous injection of ascorbate in mouse skeletal muscle .
It is unknown whether , in parallel with this effect , ascorbate negatively affects the protective responses to sepsis involving the fibrinolytic and immune systems .
We hypothesized that treatment with ascorbate for 1 h does not alter bacterial content , plasminogen activator @ @ @ @ @ @ @ neutrophil infiltration in lung , kidney , spleen , and liver ( organs with high immune response ) of septic mice .
MATERIALS AND METHODS : Sepsis was induced by feces injection into the peritoneum .
Mice were injected intravenously with ascorbate at 6 h ( 10 mg/kg ) , and samples of peritoneal fluid , arterial blood , and organs collected at 7 h were subjected to analyses of bacterial content , PAI-1 messenger RNA and enzymatic activity , and myeloperoxidase ( MPO ) ( a measure of neutrophil infiltration ) .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ all fluids and organs and increased PAI-1 messenger RNA and enzymatic activity in the lung and liver .
Sepsis increased the myeloperoxidase level in the lung and liver , and lowered it in the spleen .
Except for decreasing the bacterial content in blood , these responses to sepsis were not altered by ascorbate .
CONCLUSIONS : The rapid effect of ascorbate against capillary plugging in the septic mouse skeletal muscle is not accompanied by alterations in PAI-1 or myeloperoxidase responses in the organs with high immune response .

BACKGROUND: Sepsis, a potential risk associated with surgery, leads to a systemic inflammatory response including the plugging of capillary beds. This plugging may precipitate organ failure and subsequent death. We have shown that capillary plugging can be reversed rapidly within 1 h by intravenous injection of ascorbate in mouse skeletal muscle. It is unknown whether, in parallel with this effect, ascorbate negatively affects the protective responses to sepsis involving the fibrinolytic and immune systems. We hypothesized that treatment with ascorbate for 1 h does not alter bacterial content, plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 (PAI-1), and neutrophil infiltration in lung, kidney, spleen, and liver (organs with high immune response) of septic mice.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: Sepsis was induced by feces injection into the peritoneum. Mice were injected intravenously with ascorbate at 6 h (10 mg/kg), and samples of peritoneal fluid, arterial blood, and organs collected at 7 h were subjected to analyses of bacterial content, PAI-1 messenger RNA and enzymatic activity, and myeloperoxidase (MPO) (a measure of neutrophil infiltration).
RESULTS: Sepsis increased bacterial content in all fluids and organs and increased PAI-1 messenger RNA and enzymatic activity in the lung and liver. Sepsis increased the myeloperoxidase level in the lung and liver, and lowered it in the spleen. Except for decreasing the bacterial content in blood, these responses to sepsis were not altered by ascorbate.
CONCLUSIONS: The rapid effect of ascorbate against capillary plugging in the septic mouse skeletal muscle is not accompanied by alterations in PAI-1 or myeloperoxidase responses in the organs with high immune response.


greenmedinfo--2020-04-03--Supplementation with multivitamins and vitamin A and incidence of malaria among HIV-infected Tanzani

Supplementation with multivitamins and vitamin A and incidence of malaria among HIV-infected Tanzanian women.

INTRODUCTION : HIV and malaria infections occur in the same individuals , particularly in sub-Saharan Africa .
We examined whether daily multivitamin supplementation ( vitamins B complex , C , and E ) or vitamin A supplementation altered malaria incidence in HIV-infected women of reproductive age .
METHODS : HIV-infected pregnant Tanzanian women recruited into the study were randomly assigned to daily multivitamins ( B complex , C , and E ) , vitamin A alone , both multivitamins and vitamin A , or placebo .
Women received malaria prophylaxis during pregnancy and were followed monthly during the prenatal and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2 ways : presumptive diagnosis based on a physician 's or nurse 's clinical judgment , which in many cases led to laboratory investigations , and periodic examination of blood smears for malaria parasites .
RESULTS : Multivitamin supplementation compared with no multivitamins significantly lowered women 's risk of presumptively diagnosed clinical malaria ( relative risk : 0.78 , 95 % confidence interval : 0.67 to 0.92 ) , although multivitamins increased their risk of any malaria parasitemia ( relative risk : 1.24 , 95 % confidence interval : 1.02 to 1.50 ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ malaria incidence during the study .
CONCLUSIONS : Multivitamin supplements have been previously shown to reduce HIV disease progression among HIV-infected women , and consistent with that , these supplements protected against development of symptomatic malaria .
The clinical significance of increased risk of malaria parasitemia among supplemented women deserves further research , however .
Preventive measures for malaria are warranted as part of an integrated approach to the care of HIV-infected individuals exposed to malaria .

INTRODUCTION: HIV and malaria infections occur in the same individuals, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. We examined whether daily multivitamin supplementation (vitamins B complex, C, and E) or vitamin A supplementation altered malaria incidence in HIV-infected women of reproductive age.
METHODS: HIV-infected pregnant Tanzanian women recruited into the study were randomly assigned to daily multivitamins (B complex, C, and E), vitamin A alone, both multivitamins and vitamin A, or placebo. Women received malaria prophylaxis during pregnancy and were followed monthly during the prenatal and postpartum periods. Malaria was defined in 2 ways: presumptive diagnosis based on a physician's or nurse's clinical judgment, which in many cases led to laboratory investigations, and periodic examination of blood smears for malaria parasites.
RESULTS: Multivitamin supplementation compared with no multivitamins significantly lowered women's risk of presumptively diagnosed clinical malaria (relative risk: 0.78, 95% confidence interval: 0.67 to 0.92), although multivitamins increased their risk of any malaria parasitemia (relative risk: 1.24, 95% confidence interval: 1.02 to 1.50). Vitamin A supplementation did not change malaria incidence during the study.
CONCLUSIONS: Multivitamin supplements have been previously shown to reduce HIV disease progression among HIV-infected women, and consistent with that, these supplements protected against development of symptomatic malaria. The clinical significance of increased risk of malaria parasitemia among supplemented women deserves further research, however. Preventive measures for malaria are warranted as part of an integrated approach to the care of HIV-infected individuals exposed to malaria.


greenmedinfo--2020-04-03--COVID-19: Melatonin as a potential adjuvant treatment.

This article summarizes the likely benefits of melatonin in the attenuation of COVID-19 based on its putative pathogenesis .
The recent outbreak of COVID-19 has become a pandemic with tens of thousands of infected patients .
Based on clinical features , pathology , the pathogenesis of acute respiratory disorder induced by either highly homogenous coronaviruses or other pathogens , the evidence suggests that excessive inflammation , oxidation , and an exaggerated immune response very likely contribute to COVID-19 pathology .
This leads to a cytokine storm and subsequent progression to acute lung injury ( ALI ) /acute respiratory distress syndrome @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Melatonin , a well-known anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative molecule , is protective against ALI/ARDS caused by viral and other pathogens .
Melatonin is effective in critical care patients by reducing vessel permeability , anxiety , sedation use , and improving sleeping quality , which might also be beneficial for better clinical outcomes for COVID-19 patients .
Notably , melatonin has a high safety profile .
There is significant data showing that melatonin limits virus-related diseases and would also likely be beneficial in COVID-19 patients .
Additional experiments and clinical studies are required to confirm @ @ @

This article summarizes the likely benefits of melatonin in the attenuation of COVID-19 based on its putative pathogenesis. The recent outbreak of COVID-19 has become a pandemic with tens of thousands of infected patients. Based on clinical features, pathology, the pathogenesis of acute respiratory disorder induced by either highly homogenous coronaviruses or other pathogens, the evidence suggests that excessive inflammation, oxidation, and an exaggerated immune response very likely contribute to COVID-19 pathology. This leads to a cytokine storm and subsequent progression to acute lung injury (ALI)/acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and often death. Melatonin, a well-known anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative molecule, is protective against ALI/ARDS caused by viral and other pathogens. Melatonin is effective in critical care patients by reducing vessel permeability, anxiety, sedation use, and improving sleeping quality, which might also be beneficial for better clinical outcomes for COVID-19 patients. Notably, melatonin has a high safety profile. There is significant data showing that melatonin limits virus-related diseases and would also likely be beneficial in COVID-19 patients. Additional experiments and clinical studies are required to confirm this speculation.


greenmedinfo--2020-04-03--Vitamin C facilitates demethylation of the foxp3 enhancer in a tet-dependent manner.

Demethylation of CpG motifs in the Foxp3 intronic element , conserved noncoding sequence 2 ( CNS2 ) , is indispensable for the stable expression of Foxp3 in regulatory T cells ( Tregs ) .
In this study , we found that vitamin C induces CNS2 demethylation in Tregs in a ten-eleven-translocation 2 ( Tet2 ) -dependent manner .
The CpG motifs of CNS2 in Tregs generated in vitro by TGF-β ( iTregs ) , which were methylated originally , became demethylated after vitamin C treatment .
The conversion of 5-methylcytosin into 5-hydroxymethylcytosin was more efficient , and the methyl group @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was erased rapidly in iTregs treated with vitamin C. The effect of vitamin C disappeared in Tet2 ( -/- ) iTregs .
Furthermore , CNS2 in peripheral Tregs in vivo , which were demethylated originally , became methylated after treatment with a sodium-dependent vitamin C transporter inhibitor , sulfinpyrazone .
Finally , CNS2 demethylation in thymic Tregs was also impaired in Tet2 ( -/- ) mice , but not in wild type mice , when they were treated with sulfinpyrazone .
Collectively , vitamin C was required for the CNS2 demethylation mediated by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Foxp3 expression .
Our findings indicate that environmental factors , such as nutrients , could bring about changes in immune homeostasis through epigenetic mechanisms .

Demethylation of CpG motifs in the Foxp3 intronic element, conserved noncoding sequence 2 (CNS2), is indispensable for the stable expression of Foxp3 in regulatory T cells (Tregs). In this study, we found that vitamin C induces CNS2 demethylation in Tregs in a ten-eleven-translocation 2 (Tet2)-dependent manner. The CpG motifs of CNS2 in Tregs generated in vitro by TGF-β (iTregs), which were methylated originally, became demethylated after vitamin C treatment. The conversion of 5-methylcytosin into 5-hydroxymethylcytosin was more efficient, and the methyl group from the CpG motifs of Foxp3 CNS2 was erased rapidly in iTregs treated with vitamin C. The effect of vitamin C disappeared in Tet2(-/-) iTregs. Furthermore, CNS2 in peripheral Tregs in vivo, which were demethylated originally, became methylated after treatment with a sodium-dependent vitamin C transporter inhibitor, sulfinpyrazone. Finally, CNS2 demethylation in thymic Tregs was also impaired in Tet2(-/-) mice, but not in wild type mice, when they were treated with sulfinpyrazone. Collectively, vitamin C was required for the CNS2 demethylation mediated by Tet proteins, which was essential for Foxp3 expression. Our findings indicate that environmental factors, such as nutrients, could bring about changes in immune homeostasis through epigenetic mechanisms.


greenmedinfo--2020-04-03--Vitamin C pre-treatment enhances the antibacterial effect of cold atmospheric plasma.

Bacterial biofilms are three-dimensional structures containing bacterial cells enveloped in a protective polymeric matrix , which renders them highly resistant to antibiotics and the human immune system .
Therefore , the capacity to make biofilms is considered as a major virulence factor for pathogenic bacteria .
Cold Atmospheric Plasma ( CAP ) is known to be quite efficient in eradicating planktonic bacteria , but its effectiveness against biofilms has not been thoroughly investigated .
The goal of this study was to evaluate the effect of exposure of CAP against mature biofilm for different time intervals and to evaluate the effect @ @ @ @ @ @ @ demonstrate that CAP is not very effective against 48 h mature bacterial biofilms of several common opportunistic pathogens : , and .
However , if bacterial biofilms are pre-treated with vitamin C for 15 min before exposure to CAP , a significantly stronger bactericidal effect can be obtained .
Vitamin C pretreatment enhances the bactericidal effect of cold plasma by reducing the viability from 10 to 2 % inbiofilm , 50 to 11 % in , and 61 to 18 % inbiofilm .
Since it is not feasible to use extended CAP treatments @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the pre-treatment of infectious lesions with vitamin C prior to CAP exposure can be a viable route for efficient eradication of bacterial biofilms in many different applications .

Bacterial biofilms are three-dimensional structures containing bacterial cells enveloped in a protective polymeric matrix, which renders them highly resistant to antibiotics and the human immune system. Therefore, the capacity to make biofilms is considered as a major virulence factor for pathogenic bacteria. Cold Atmospheric Plasma (CAP) is known to be quite efficient in eradicating planktonic bacteria, but its effectiveness against biofilms has not been thoroughly investigated. The goal of this study was to evaluate the effect of exposure of CAP against mature biofilm for different time intervals and to evaluate the effect of combined treatment with vitamin C. We demonstrate that CAP is not very effective against 48 h mature bacterial biofilms of several common opportunistic pathogens:, and. However, if bacterial biofilms are pre-treated with vitamin C for 15 min before exposure to CAP, a significantly stronger bactericidal effect can be obtained. Vitamin C pretreatment enhances the bactericidal effect of cold plasma by reducing the viability from 10 to 2% inbiofilm, 50 to 11% in, and 61 to 18% inbiofilm. Since it is not feasible to use extended CAP treatments in medical practice, we argue that the pre-treatment of infectious lesions with vitamin C prior to CAP exposure can be a viable route for efficient eradication of bacterial biofilms in many different applications.


greenmedinfo--2020-04-03--Inhibition of NF-kappa B and oxidative pathways in human dendritic cells by antioxidative vitamins g

Inhibition of NF-kappa B and oxidative pathways in human dendritic cells by antioxidative vitamins generates regulatory T cells.

Dendritic cells ( DCs ) are central to T cell immunity , and many strategies have been used to manipulate DCs to modify immune responses .
We investigated the effects of antioxidants ascorbate ( vitamin C ) and alpha-tocopherol ( vitamin E ) on DC phenotype and function .
Vitamins C and E are both antioxidants , and concurrent use results in a nonadditive activity .
We have demonstrated that DC treated with these antioxidants are resistant to phenotypic and functional changes following stimulation with proinflammatory cytokines .
Following treatment , the levels of intracellular oxygen radical species were reduced @ @ @ @ @ @ @ eukaryotic translation initiation factor 2alpha , NF-kappaB , protein kinase C , and p38 MAPK pathways could not be activated following inflammatory agent stimulation .
We went on to show that allogeneic T cells ( including CD4 ( + ) CD45RO , CD4 ( + ) CD45RA , and CD4 ( + ) CD25 ( - ) subsets ) were anergized following exposure to vitamin-treated DCs , and secreted higher levels of Th2 cytokines and IL-10 than cells incubated with control DCs .
These anergic T cells act as regulatory T cells in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on IL-4 , IL-5 , IL-10 , IL-13 , and TGF-beta .
These data indicate that vitamin C- and E-treated DC might be useful for the induction of tolerance to allo- or autoantigens .

Dendritic cells (DCs) are central to T cell immunity, and many strategies have been used to manipulate DCs to modify immune responses. We investigated the effects of antioxidants ascorbate (vitamin C) and alpha-tocopherol (vitamin E) on DC phenotype and function. Vitamins C and E are both antioxidants, and concurrent use results in a nonadditive activity. We have demonstrated that DC treated with these antioxidants are resistant to phenotypic and functional changes following stimulation with proinflammatory cytokines. Following treatment, the levels of intracellular oxygen radical species were reduced, and the protein kinase RNA-regulated, eukaryotic translation initiation factor 2alpha, NF-kappaB, protein kinase C, and p38 MAPK pathways could not be activated following inflammatory agent stimulation. We went on to show that allogeneic T cells (including CD4(+)CD45RO, CD4(+)CD45RA, and CD4(+)CD25(-) subsets) were anergized following exposure to vitamin-treated DCs, and secreted higher levels of Th2 cytokines and IL-10 than cells incubated with control DCs. These anergic T cells act as regulatory T cells in a contact-dependent manner that is not dependent on IL-4, IL-5, IL-10, IL-13, and TGF-beta. These data indicate that vitamin C- and E-treated DC might be useful for the induction of tolerance to allo- or autoantigens.


greenmedinfo--2020-04-03--Ascorbate deficiency results in impaired neutrophil apoptosis and clearance and is associated with u

Ascorbate deficiency results in impaired neutrophil apoptosis and clearance and is associated with up-regulation of hypoxia-inducible factor 1alpha.

Some cells , including neutrophils , accumulate high intracellular ascorbate concentrations , which suggests that they have an important function in these cells .
In this study we have used L-gulono-gamma-lactone oxidase ( Gulo ) -/- mice , which are unable to synthesize ascorbate , to generate ascorbate-deficient neutrophils and have used these to investigate the effect of ascorbate on neutrophil function .
Peritoneal neutrophils from ascorbate-deficient animals had normal morphology and respiratory burst activity but failed to undergo spontaneous apoptosis , determined by morphology and the surface expression of phosphatidylserine .
Initially , there was increased cell survival , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 48 h. Neutrophils persisted in thioglycollate-induced inflammation in Gulo-/- mice with the later appearance of necrotic cells , suggesting that apoptosis was also affected in vivo .
Also , ascorbate-deficient neutrophils were not recognized by macrophages in an in vitro assay for phagocytosis , providing further evidence for defective apoptosis and clearance .
Neutrophils from Gulo-/- mice had elevated levels of hypoxia-inducible factor ( HIF ) -1alpha , a transcription factor regulated by Fe2+-dependent hydroxylases which require ascorbate for optimal activity .
HIF-1alpha has been shown previously to inhibit neutrophil apoptosis under hypoxic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ascorbate deficiency , up-regulation of HIF-1alpha blocks neutrophil apoptosis under normoxic conditions and that this represents a novel and important function for vitamin C in inflammatory cells .

Some cells, including neutrophils, accumulate high intracellular ascorbate concentrations, which suggests that they have an important function in these cells. In this study we have used L-gulono-gamma-lactone oxidase (Gulo)-/- mice, which are unable to synthesize ascorbate, to generate ascorbate-deficient neutrophils and have used these to investigate the effect of ascorbate on neutrophil function. Peritoneal neutrophils from ascorbate-deficient animals had normal morphology and respiratory burst activity but failed to undergo spontaneous apoptosis, determined by morphology and the surface expression of phosphatidylserine. Initially, there was increased cell survival, but death eventually occurred by necrosis within 48 h. Neutrophils persisted in thioglycollate-induced inflammation in Gulo-/- mice with the later appearance of necrotic cells, suggesting that apoptosis was also affected in vivo. Also, ascorbate-deficient neutrophils were not recognized by macrophages in an in vitro assay for phagocytosis, providing further evidence for defective apoptosis and clearance. Neutrophils from Gulo-/- mice had elevated levels of hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)-1alpha, a transcription factor regulated by Fe2+-dependent hydroxylases which require ascorbate for optimal activity. HIF-1alpha has been shown previously to inhibit neutrophil apoptosis under hypoxic conditions. Our results suggest that in ascorbate deficiency, up-regulation of HIF-1alpha blocks neutrophil apoptosis under normoxic conditions and that this represents a novel and important function for vitamin C in inflammatory cells.


greenmedinfo--2020-04-04--Rationale for Vitamin C Treatment of COVID-19 and Other Viruses

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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--2020-04-04--Essential role of vitamin C and zinc in child immunity and health.

With the progressive elimination of dietary protein-energy deficits , deficiencies of micronutrients are emerging as the limiting factors in ensuring @ @ @ @ @ Data from several countries in Asia and Latin America indicate that deficiencies of vitamin C @ @ @ @ @ at alarming levels .
This article reviews the roles of vitamin C and zinc in @ @ @ @ @ development , with a particular focus on the complementary roles they play in supporting immune @ @ @ @ @ The contemporary relevance of vitamin C and zinc deficiency in the Asian and Latin American @ @ @ @ @ rapid nutritional transition , are also discussed .
Overall , there is increasing evidence that @ @ @ @ @ zinc adversely affects the physical and mental growth of children and can impair their immune @ @ @ @ @ the main vehicle for providing these essential nutrients ; however , supplementation can represent a @ @ @ @ @ in developing regions .

With the progressive elimination of dietary protein-energy deficits, deficiencies of micronutrients are emerging as the limiting factors in ensuring children's optimal health. Data from several countries in Asia and Latin America indicate that deficiencies of vitamin C and zinc continue to be at alarming levels. This article reviews the roles of vitamin C and zinc in supporting children's growth and development, with a particular focus on the complementary roles they play in supporting immune functions and combating infections. The contemporary relevance of vitamin C and zinc deficiency in the Asian and Latin American regions, both undergoing a rapid nutritional transition, are also discussed. Overall, there is increasing evidence that deficiency of vitamin C and zinc adversely affects the physical and mental growth of children and can impair their immune defences. Nutrition should be the main vehicle for providing these essential nutrients; however, supplementation can represent a valid support method, especially in developing regions.


greenmedinfo--2020-04-04--Dietary intake and supplement use of vitamins C and E and upper respiratory tract infection.

OBJECTIVE : Antioxidants are regulators of immune function and may play a role in upper respiratory tract infections ( URTI ) .
We investigated the potential effects of dietary intake from food and supplement use of vitamins C and E on the risk of self-reported URTI .
METHODS : We conducted a population-based cohort study of 1509 Swedish men and women ages 20 to 60 with a follow-up period of 4 months .
Participants reported a total of 1181 occurrences of URTI .
Poisson regression model was used to control for age , sex , and other confounding factors .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ that the incidence rate ratio ( IRR ) for high intake of vitamin C ( > 200 mg/d ) from food was 0.69 ( 95 % CI 0.49-0.98 ) compared with low intake ( < 100 mg/d ) .
This association was not seen among men , for whom the IRR was 1.16 ( 95 % CI 0.79-1.70 ) for high intake of vitamin C ( > 150 mg/d ) compared with low intake ( < 50 mg/d ) .
We saw no protective effect of vitamin E from food among either men @ @ @ @ @ @ @ effect of vitamin C and E supplement use among men ( vitamin C , 0.69 [ 95 % CI 0.47-1.02 ] ; vitamin E , 0.56 [ 95 % CI 0.33-0.95 ] ) , although not among women .
CONCLUSION : The present study is the first observational study to suggest that intake of vitamin C from food is sufficient to lower the risk of URTI among women .
In addition , it appears that supplement use of vitamin E and vitamin C may reduce the risk of URTI among men , who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ C from food than women .

OBJECTIVE: Antioxidants are regulators of immune function and may play a role in upper respiratory tract infections (URTI). We investigated the potential effects of dietary intake from food and supplement use of vitamins C and E on the risk of self-reported URTI.
METHODS: We conducted a population-based cohort study of 1509 Swedish men and women ages 20 to 60 with a follow-up period of 4 months. Participants reported a total of 1181 occurrences of URTI. Poisson regression model was used to control for age, sex, and other confounding factors.
RESULTS: Among women, we found that the incidence rate ratio (IRR) for high intake of vitamin C (>200 mg/d) from food was 0.69 (95% CI 0.49-0.98) compared with low intake (<100 mg/d). This association was not seen among men, for whom the IRR was 1.16 (95% CI 0.79-1.70) for high intake of vitamin C (>150 mg/d) compared with low intake (<50 mg/d). We saw no protective effect of vitamin E from food among either men or women, but a possible protective effect of vitamin C and E supplement use among men (vitamin C, 0.69 [95% CI 0.47-1.02]; vitamin E, 0.56 [95% CI 0.33-0.95]), although not among women.
CONCLUSION: The present study is the first observational study to suggest that intake of vitamin C from food is sufficient to lower the risk of URTI among women. In addition, it appears that supplement use of vitamin E and vitamin C may reduce the risk of URTI among men, who overall had a lower intake of vitamin C from food than women.


greenmedinfo--2020-04-04--Effect of ascorbic acid and alpha tocopherol on immune status of male Sprague Dawley rats exposed to

Effect of ascorbic acid and alpha tocopherol on immune status of male Sprague Dawley rats exposed to chronic restraint stress.

BACKGROUND : The immune system provides protection against infectious diseases or other insults .
Psychological stress may alter antibody production through neurobiological pathways .
Antioxidant supplementation is thought to improve immune status and thereby reduce infectious morbidity .
The aim of this study was to determine the preventive effect of ascorbic acid and alpha tocopherol on immune status of rats exposed to chronic restraint stress .
METHODS : A total of 150 healthy male Sprague Dawley rats were included in the study .
They were divided into 5 groups , each comprised of 30 rats .
Group I was the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ II rats were exposed to chronic restraint stress for 6 hours daily for 15 days , without antioxidant supplementation , whereas rats of groups III , IV and V were given supplementation of ascorbic acid or alpha tocopherol or both respectively , for one month prior to exposure of rats to chronic restraint stress .
Total leukocyte count ( TLC ) and lymphocyte counts was done , and serum immuno-globulins ( IgG , IgA , IgM , and IgE ) levels were estimated using ELISA .
RESULTS : Total leukocyte and lymphocyte counts @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and IgM levels were found significantly ( p 0.001 ) decreased in rats exposed to chronic restraint stress compared to the rats not exposed to the restraint stress .
The combined supplementation of ascorbic acid and alpha tocopherol significantly ( p 0.001 ) prevented the decline in total leukocyte and lymphocyte counts and serum immuno-globulins compared to the administration of either of the two antioxidants .
CONCLUSION : Antioxidants ( ascorbic acid and alpha tocopherol ) given in combination produce greater beneficial effect in improving the immune status of rats exposed to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ascorbic acid or alpha tocopherol .

BACKGROUND: The immune system provides protection against infectious diseases or other insults. Psychological stress may alter antibody production through neurobiological pathways. Antioxidant supplementation is thought to improve immune status and thereby reduce infectious morbidity. The aim of this study was to determine the preventive effect of ascorbic acid and alpha tocopherol on immune status of rats exposed to chronic restraint stress.
METHODS: A total of 150 healthy male Sprague Dawley rats were included in the study. They were divided into 5 groups, each comprised of 30 rats. Group I was the control group on normal diet. Group II rats were exposed to chronic restraint stress for 6 hours daily for 15 days, without antioxidant supplementation, whereas rats of groups III, IV and V were given supplementation of ascorbic acid or alpha tocopherol or both respectively, for one month prior to exposure of rats to chronic restraint stress. Total leukocyte count (TLC) and lymphocyte counts was done, and serum immuno-globulins (IgG, IgA, IgM, and IgE) levels were estimated using ELISA.
RESULTS: Total leukocyte and lymphocyte counts and serum IgA, IgE, IgG, and IgM levels were found significantly (p 0.001) decreased in rats exposed to chronic restraint stress compared to the rats not exposed to the restraint stress. The combined supplementation of ascorbic acid and alpha tocopherol significantly (p 0.001) prevented the decline in total leukocyte and lymphocyte counts and serum immuno-globulins compared to the administration of either of the two antioxidants.
CONCLUSION: Antioxidants (ascorbic acid and alpha tocopherol) given in combination produce greater beneficial effect in improving the immune status of rats exposed to chronic stress than individual supplementation of either ascorbic acid or alpha tocopherol.