greenmedinfo--2020-03-19--Gastrodin can inhibit H2O2-induced ferroptosis through its antioxidative effect in C6 cells.

Ferroptosis is a form of necrosis caused by iron-induced accumulation of lipid hydroperoxide , involving several molecular events , and has been implicated in Parkinson 's disease .
Gastrodin is a component of Gastrodia elata Blume with strong antioxidant activity .
We examined whether gastrodin can prevent HO-induced cytotoxicity in rat glioma cell line C6 .
For this purpose , C6 cells were pretreated with gastrodin ( 1 , 5 , 25 µM ) and then exposed to 100 µM HO .
Results showed that pretreatment of C6 cells with gastrodin decreased HO-induced lactate dehydrogenase ( LDH ) release and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ intracellular malondialdehyde ( MDA ) level , whereas increased glutathione peroxidase ( GPX ) activity and glutathione ( GSH ) level after HOtreatment .
In addition , treatment of deferoxamine ( DFO ) , ferrostatin-1 , and liproxstatin-1 abolished ferroptosis induced by HOor erastin pretreatment .
Treatment with gastrodin attenuated HO-induced ferroptosis and decreased lipid reactive oxygen species ( ROS ) ( C11-BODIPY ) production in C6 cells .
Moreover , gastrodin increased the protein expression of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 ( Nrf2 ) , GPX4 , ferroportin-1 ( FPN1 ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in C6 cells treated with HO .
RSL3 , a GPX4 inhibitor , inhibited GPX4 protein level in cells co-treated with gastrodin and 100 µM HO .
These findings indicate that gastrodin can inhibit HO-induced ferroptosis through its antioxidative effect in C6 cells .

Ferroptosis is a form of necrosis caused by iron-induced accumulation of lipid hydroperoxide, involving several molecular events, and has been implicated in Parkinson's disease. Gastrodin is a component of Gastrodia elata Blume with strong antioxidant activity. We examined whether gastrodin can prevent HO-induced cytotoxicity in rat glioma cell line C6. For this purpose, C6 cells were pretreated with gastrodin (1, 5, 25 µM) and then exposed to 100 µM HO. Results showed that pretreatment of C6 cells with gastrodin decreased HO-induced lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release and cell death. Moreover, gastrodin decreased intracellular malondialdehyde (MDA) level, whereas increased glutathione peroxidase (GPX) activity and glutathione (GSH) level after HOtreatment. In addition, treatment of deferoxamine (DFO), ferrostatin-1, and liproxstatin-1 abolished ferroptosis induced by HOor erastin pretreatment. Treatment with gastrodin attenuated HO-induced ferroptosis and decreased lipid reactive oxygen species (ROS) (C11-BODIPY) production in C6 cells. Moreover, gastrodin increased the protein expression of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), GPX4, ferroportin-1 (FPN1), and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) in C6 cells treated with HO. RSL3, a GPX4 inhibitor, inhibited GPX4 protein level in cells co-treated with gastrodin and 100 µM HO. These findings indicate that gastrodin can inhibit HO-induced ferroptosis through its antioxidative effect in C6 cells.


greenmedinfo--2020-03-19--Gastrodin improves preeclampsia-induced cell apoptosis by regulation of TLR4/NF-κB.

To explain gastrodin improved cell apoptosis induced by preeclampsia in vivo and in vitro study .
The PE and normal @ @ @ @ @ saline ( Model ) , low-dose gastrodin ( Gas-L ) , medium-dose gastrodin ( Gas-M @ @ @ @ @ ( Gas-H ) groups at 50 , 100 , or 200 mg/kg per day .
@ @ @ @ @ 24-hr urine protein level were measured at pregnant days 10 , 16 , and 20 @ @ @ @ @ & E staining , the cell apoptosis by TUNEL , and MyD88 and NF-κB ( @ @ @ @ @ assay using H/R to simulate PE cell model .
Measuring cell proliferation , apoptosis , @ @ @ @ @ p65 ) protein expression by MTT , flow cytometry , and WB assay .
The @ @ @ @ @ 24-hr urine protein levels were significantly different in PE rats (

To explain gastrodin improved cell apoptosis induced by preeclampsia in vivo and in vitro study. The PE and normal rats were injected with normal saline (Model), low-dose gastrodin (Gas-L), medium-dose gastrodin (Gas-M), and high-dose gastrodin (Gas-H) groups at 50, 100, or 200 mg/kg per day. The rat blood pressure and 24-hr urine protein level were measured at pregnant days 10, 16, and 20. Evaluating pathology by H&E staining, the cell apoptosis by TUNEL, and MyD88 and NF-κB (p65) proteins by IHC assay using H/R to simulate PE cell model. Measuring cell proliferation, apoptosis, and MyD88 and NF-κB (p65) protein expression by MTT, flow cytometry, and WB assay. The SBP, DBP, and 24-hr urine protein levels were significantly different in PE rats ( < .05). The SBP, DBP, and 24-hr urine protein levels were significantly improved ( < .05) in vivo and in vitro. The positive apoptosis cells and apoptosis rate were significantly increased with MyD88 and NF-κB (p65) proteins upregulation ( < .05). The positive apoptosis cells and apoptosis rate were significantly decreased with MyD88 and NF-κB (p65) proteins depressing in gastrodin-treated groups with dose-dependent ( < .05). Gastrodin improves PE-induced cell apoptosis and pathology changed via MyD88/NF-κB pathway in vitro and in vivo study.


greenmedinfo--2020-03-19--A history of smoking may lead to a more severe coronavirus infection.

BACKGROUND : Since early December 2019 , the 2019 novel coronavirus disease ( COVID-19 ) has caused pneumonia epidemic in Wuhan , Hubei province of China .
This study aims to investigate the factors affecting the progression of pneumonia in COVID-19 patients .
Associated results will be used to evaluate the prognosis and to find the optimal treatment regimens for COVID-19 pneumonia .
METHODS : Patients tested positive for the COVID-19 based on nucleic acid detection were included in this study .
Patients were admitted to 3 tertiary hospitals in Wuhan between December 30 , 2019 , and January 15 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ indices , imaging characteristics , and clinical data were collected , and statistical analysis was performed .
Based on clinical typing results , the patients were divided into a progression group or an improvement/stabilization group .
Continuous variables were analyzed using independent samples t-test or Mann-Whitney U test .
Categorical variables were analyzed using Chi-squared test or Fisher exact test .
Logistic regression analysis was performed to explore the risk factors for disease progression .
RESULTS : Seventy-eight patients with COVID-19-induced pneumonia met the inclusion criteria and were included in this study .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ indicated that 11 patients ( 14.1 % ) had deteriorated , and 67 patients ( 85.9 % ) had improved/stabilized .
The patients in the progression group were significantly older than those in the disease improvement/stabilization group ( 66 [ 51 , 70 ] vs. 37 [ 32 , 41 ] years , U = 4.932 , P = 0.001 ) .
The progression group had a significantly higher proportion of patients with a history of smoking than the improvement/stabilization group ( 27.3 % vs. 3.0 % , χ = 9.291 , P @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 78 patients , fever was the most common initial symptom , and the maximum body temperature at admission was significantly higher in the progression group than in the improvement/stabilization group ( 38.2 [ 37.8 , 38.6 ] vs. 37.5 [ 37.0 , 38.4 ] °C , U = 2.057 , P = 0.027 ) .
Moreover , the proportion of patients with respiratory failure ( 54.5 % vs. 20.9 % , χ = 5.611 , P = 0.028 ) and respiratory rate ( 34 [ 18 , 48 ] vs. 24 [ 16 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 4.030 , P = 0.004 ) were significantly higher in the progression group than in the improvement/stabilization group .
C-reactive protein was significantly elevated in the progression group compared to the improvement/stabilization group ( 38.9 [ 14.3 , 64.8 ] vs. 10.6 [ 1.9 , 33.1 ] mg/L , U = 1.315 , P = 0.024 ) .
Albumin was significantly lower in the progression group than in the improvement/stabilization group ( 36.62 ± 6.60 vs. 41.27 ± 4.55 g/L , U = 2.843 , P = 0.006 ) .
Patients in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ high-level respiratory support than in the improvement/stabilization group ( χ = 16.01 , P = 0.001 ) .
Multivariate logistic analysis indicated that age ( odds ratio [ OR ] , 8.546 ; 95 % confidence interval [ CI ] : 1.628-44.864 ; P = 0.011 ) , history of smoking ( OR , 14.285 ; 95 % CI : 1.577-25.000 ; P = 0.018 ) , maximum body temperature at admission ( OR , 8.999 ; 95 % CI : 1.036-78.147 , P = 0.046 ) , respiratory failure ( OR , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ; P = 0.016 ) , albumin ( OR , 7.353 , 95 % CI : 1.098-50.000 ; P = 0.003 ) , and C-reactive protein ( OR , 10.530 ; 95 % CI : 1.224-34.701 , P = 0.028 ) were risk factors for disease progression .
CONCLUSIONS : Several factors that led to the progression of COVID-19 pneumonia were identified , including age , history of smoking , maximum body temperature on admission , respiratory failure , albumin , C-reactive protein .
These results can be used to further enhance the @ @ @ @ @ @ @

BACKGROUND: Since early December 2019, the 2019 novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has caused pneumonia epidemic in Wuhan, Hubei province of China. This study aims to investigate the factors affecting the progression of pneumonia in COVID-19 patients. Associated results will be used to evaluate the prognosis and to find the optimal treatment regimens for COVID-19 pneumonia.
METHODS: Patients tested positive for the COVID-19 based on nucleic acid detection were included in this study. Patients were admitted to 3 tertiary hospitals in Wuhan between December 30, 2019, and January 15, 2020. Individual data, laboratory indices, imaging characteristics, and clinical data were collected, and statistical analysis was performed. Based on clinical typing results, the patients were divided into a progression group or an improvement/stabilization group. Continuous variables were analyzed using independent samples t-test or Mann-Whitney U test. Categorical variables were analyzed using Chi-squared test or Fisher exact test. Logistic regression analysis was performed to explore the risk factors for disease progression.
RESULTS: Seventy-eight patients with COVID-19-induced pneumonia met the inclusion criteria and were included in this study. Efficacy evaluation at 2 weeks after hospitalization indicated that 11 patients (14.1%) had deteriorated, and 67 patients (85.9%) had improved/stabilized. The patients in the progression group were significantly older than those in the disease improvement/stabilization group (66 [51, 70] vs. 37 [32, 41] years, U = 4.932, P = 0.001). The progression group had a significantly higher proportion of patients with a history of smoking than the improvement/stabilization group (27.3% vs. 3.0%, χ = 9.291, P = 0.018). For all the 78 patients, fever was the most common initial symptom, and the maximum body temperature at admission was significantly higher in the progression group than in the improvement/stabilization group (38.2 [37.8, 38.6] vs. 37.5 [37.0, 38.4]°C, U = 2.057, P = 0.027). Moreover, the proportion of patients with respiratory failure (54.5% vs. 20.9%, χ = 5.611, P = 0.028) and respiratory rate (34 [18, 48] vs. 24 [16, 60] breaths/min, U = 4.030, P = 0.004) were significantly higher in the progression group than in the improvement/stabilization group. C-reactive protein was significantly elevated in the progression group compared to the improvement/stabilization group (38.9 [14.3, 64.8] vs. 10.6 [1.9, 33.1] mg/L, U = 1.315, P = 0.024). Albumin was significantly lower in the progression group than in the improvement/stabilization group (36.62 ± 6.60 vs. 41.27 ± 4.55 g/L, U = 2.843, P = 0.006). Patients in the progression group were more likely to receive high-level respiratory support than in the improvement/stabilization group (χ = 16.01, P = 0.001). Multivariate logistic analysis indicated that age (odds ratio [OR], 8.546; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.628-44.864; P = 0.011), history of smoking(OR, 14.285; 95% CI: 1.577-25.000; P = 0.018), maximum body temperature at admission (OR, 8.999; 95% CI: 1.036-78.147, P = 0.046), respiratory failure (OR, 8.772, 95% CI: 1.942-40.000; P = 0.016), albumin (OR, 7.353, 95% CI: 1.098-50.000; P = 0.003), and C-reactive protein (OR, 10.530; 95% CI: 1.224-34.701, P = 0.028) were risk factors for disease progression.
CONCLUSIONS: Several factors that led to the progression of COVID-19 pneumonia were identified, including age, history of smoking, maximum body temperature on admission, respiratory failure, albumin, C-reactive protein. These results can be used to further enhance the ability of management of COVID-19 pneumonia.


greenmedinfo--2020-03-19--Fucoidan ameliorates oxidative stress, inflammation, DNA damage, and hepatorenal injuries in diabeti

Fucoidan ameliorates oxidative stress, inflammation, DNA damage, and hepatorenal injuries in diabetic rats.

The current study was carried out to evaluate the ameliorative effect of fucoidan against aflatoxicosis-induced hepatorenal toxicity in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats .
Sixty-four Wister albino male rats were randomly assigned into eight groups ( 8 rats each ) that received normal saline , fucoidan ( FUC ) at 100 mg/kg/day orally for 4 weeks , streptozotocin ( STZ ) at 50 mg/kg/i.p .
single dose , STZ plus FUC , aflatoxin B ( AFB ) at 50 g/kg/i.p .
after one month of the beginning of the experiment for 2 weeks , AFBplus FUC , STZ plus AFB , or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rats with STZ induced hyperglycemia .
Rats with STZ-induced diabetes , with or without AFBintoxication , had significantly elevated activities of serum aspartate aminotransferase , alanine aminotransferase , and alkaline phosphatase , and levels of serum urea , creatinine , cholesterol , 8-oxo-2'-deoxyguanosine , interleukin-1 , interleukin-6 , and tumor necrosis factor- .
In addition , these rats exhibited increased lipid peroxidation and reduced glutathione concentration and activities of superoxide dismutase , catalase , and glutathione peroxidase enzymes in the hepatic and renal tissues .
In contrast , administration of FUC to diabetic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ameliorated the altered serum parameters , reduced oxidative stress , DNA damage , and inflammatory biomarkers , and enhanced the antioxidant defense system in the hepatic and renal tissues .
These results indicated that FUC ameliorated diabetes and AFB-induced hepatorenal injuries through alleviating oxidative stress , DNA damage , and inflammation .

The current study was carried out to evaluate the ameliorative effect of fucoidan against aflatoxicosis-induced hepatorenal toxicity in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Sixty-four Wister albino male rats were randomly assigned into eight groups (8 rats each) that received normal saline, fucoidan (FUC) at 100 mg/kg/day orally for 4 weeks, streptozotocin (STZ) at 50 mg/kg/i.p. single dose, STZ plus FUC, aflatoxin B(AFB) at 50 g/kg/i.p. after one month of the beginning of the experiment for 2 weeks, AFBplus FUC, STZ plus AFB, or STZ plus AFBand FUC. Injection of rats with STZ induced hyperglycemia. Rats with STZ-induced diabetes, with or without AFBintoxication, had significantly elevated activities of serum aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, and alkaline phosphatase, and levels of serum urea, creatinine, cholesterol, 8-oxo-2'-deoxyguanosine, interleukin-1, interleukin-6, and tumor necrosis factor-. In addition, these rats exhibited increased lipid peroxidation and reduced glutathione concentration and activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase enzymes in the hepatic and renal tissues. In contrast, administration of FUC to diabetic rats, with or without AFBintoxication, ameliorated the altered serum parameters, reduced oxidative stress, DNA damage, and inflammatory biomarkers, and enhanced the antioxidant defense system in the hepatic and renal tissues. These results indicated that FUC ameliorated diabetes and AFB-induced hepatorenal injuries through alleviating oxidative stress, DNA damage, and inflammation.


greenmedinfo--2020-03-19--Micro RNA Expression after Ingestion of Fucoidan; A Clinical Study.

Fucoidans are a class of fucose-rich sulfated polysaccharides derived from brown macroalgae that exert a range of biological activities in vitro and in vivo .
To generate an unbiased assessment of pathways and processes affected by fucoidan , a placebo-controlled double-blind pilot study was performed in healthy volunteers .
Blood samples were taken immediately before and 24 h after ingestion of a single dose of 1 g offucoidan ( UPF ) or placebo .
Levels of isolated miRNAs were analyzed using Taqman Open Array Human MicroRNA panels .
Out of 754 miRNAs screened , UPF affected a total of 53 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ data analysis tool predicted 29 different pathways and processes that were largely grouped into cell surface receptor signaling , cancer-related pathways , the majority of which were previously associated with fucoidans .
However , this analysis also identified nine pathways and processes that have not been associated with fucoidans before .
Overall , this study illustrates that even a single dose of fucoidans has the potential to affect the expression of genes related to fundamental cellular processes .
Moreover , it confirms previous data that fucoidans influence immunity , cancer cells , inflammation @ @ @ @ @

Fucoidans are a class of fucose-rich sulfated polysaccharides derived from brown macroalgae that exert a range of biological activities in vitro and in vivo. To generate an unbiased assessment of pathways and processes affected by fucoidan, a placebo-controlled double-blind pilot study was performed in healthy volunteers. Blood samples were taken immediately before and 24 h after ingestion of a single dose of 1 g offucoidan (UPF) or placebo. Levels of isolated miRNAs were analyzed using Taqman Open Array Human MicroRNA panels. Out of 754 miRNAs screened, UPF affected a total of 53 miRNAs. Pathway analysis using the TALOS data analysis tool predicted 29 different pathways and processes that were largely grouped into cell surface receptor signaling, cancer-related pathways, the majority of which were previously associated with fucoidans. However, this analysis also identified nine pathways and processes that have not been associated with fucoidans before. Overall, this study illustrates that even a single dose of fucoidans has the potential to affect the expression of genes related to fundamental cellular processes. Moreover, it confirms previous data that fucoidans influence immunity, cancer cells, inflammation, and neurological function.


greenmedinfo--2020-03-19--Fucoidan increased the sensitivity to gefitinib in lung cancer cells correlates with reduction of TG

Fucoidan increased the sensitivity to gefitinib in lung cancer cells correlates with reduction of TGFβ-mediated Slug expression.

Gefitinib is a first tyrosine kinase inhibitor ( TKI ) designed with an EGFR tyrosine kinase for lung cancer targeted therapy .
However , some lung cancer patients with wild-type EGFR ( wtEGFR ) or acquired secondary EGFR mutation showed lower response rate of gefitinib .
In this study , we examined the efficacy of fucoidan on altering gefitinib-sensitivity on TKI-resistant lung cancer A549 and H1975 cells .
We found that the simultaneous administration of fucoidan and gefitinib synergistically inhibited lung cancer cell viability via activating apoptotic response .
Moreover , we found that fucoidan effectively downregulated expressions of mesenchymal-like @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fucoidan altered the gefitinib-inhibitory rate may result from induction of proteasome-dependent Slug degradation .
Abolishment of TGFβ signaling enhanced gefitinib-inhibited cell viability and reduced N-cadherin , Twist and Slug levels .
Moreover , knockdown of Slug contributed the increasing the gefitinib-sensitivity of H1975 cells .
Our study is the first to find that fucoidan alters the gefitinib-sensitive of TKI-resistant cellsby reduction of TGFβ receptor-mediated expressions of mesenchymal-like molecules and induction of Slug degradation .
Together , our current results indicate that combination of fucoidan and gefitinib may be a potential and effective therapeutic @ @ @ @ @ @ @

Gefitinib is a first tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) designed with an EGFR tyrosine kinase for lung cancer targeted therapy. However, some lung cancer patients with wild-type EGFR (wtEGFR) or acquired secondary EGFR mutation showed lower response rate of gefitinib. In this study, we examined the efficacy of fucoidan on altering gefitinib-sensitivity on TKI-resistant lung cancer A549 and H1975 cells. We found that the simultaneous administration of fucoidan and gefitinib synergistically inhibited lung cancer cell viability via activating apoptotic response. Moreover, we found that fucoidan effectively downregulated expressions of mesenchymal-like molecules. Mechanistically, we demonstrated that fucoidan altered the gefitinib-inhibitory rate may result from induction of proteasome-dependent Slug degradation. Abolishment of TGFβ signaling enhanced gefitinib-inhibited cell viability and reduced N-cadherin, Twist and Slug levels. Moreover, knockdown of Slug contributed the increasing the gefitinib-sensitivity of H1975 cells. Our study is the first to find that fucoidan alters the gefitinib-sensitive of TKI-resistant cellsby reduction of TGFβ receptor-mediated expressions of mesenchymal-like molecules and induction of Slug degradation. Together, our current results indicate that combination of fucoidan and gefitinib may be a potential and effective therapeutic strategy in gefitinib non-sensitive lung cancer.


greenmedinfo--2020-03-19--Oral supplementation of fucoxanthin-rich brown algae extract ameliorates cisplatin-induced testicula

Oral supplementation of fucoxanthin-rich brown algae extract ameliorates cisplatin-induced testicular damage.

Oxidative stress is recognized as a common pathology that affects up to half of all men infertile .
Fucoxanthin possesses antioxidant activity , and several investigators have reported anti-inflammatory action .
This study extracted powder of Sargassum glaucescens by acetone to obtained fucoxanthin rich-brown algae extract ( FXE ) .
The objective of this study was to evaluate the ameliorative effects of fucoxanthin extract from Sargassum glaucescens on lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammation in RAW264.7 macrophage cells and its protective effects of against Cisplatin ( CP ) -induced reproductive damage in hamsters .
Eighty male Syrian hamsters were injected with and without CP @ @ @ @ @ @ @ concentrations of fucoxanthin for 5 days .
Treatment with FXE reduced the level of reactive oxygen species and malondialdehyde in RAW 264.7 cells and the rats ' testis as well as protective effects on mitochondrial membrane potential .
The FXE administration also improved testosterone level and alpha-glucosidase activity .
The sperm count also increased after treated with FXE , whereas sperm abnormality was reduced .
Histopathological analysis showed that FXE successfully improved the seminiferous tubules morphology .
According to these findings , fucoxanthin extract from Sargassum glaucescens can be used as an alternative @ @ @ @ @ @ @

Oxidative stress is recognized as a common pathology that affects up to half of all men infertile. Fucoxanthin possesses antioxidant activity, and several investigators have reported anti-inflammatory action. This study extracted powder of Sargassum glaucescens by acetone to obtained fucoxanthin rich-brown algae extract (FXE). The objective of this study was to evaluate the ameliorative effects of fucoxanthin extract from Sargassum glaucescens on lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammation in RAW264.7 macrophage cells and its protective effects of against Cisplatin (CP)-induced reproductive damage in hamsters. Eighty male Syrian hamsters were injected with and without CP, then daily oral gavage with various concentrations of fucoxanthin for 5 days. Treatment with FXE reduced the level of reactive oxygen species and malondialdehyde in RAW 264.7 cells and the rats' testis as well as protective effects on mitochondrial membrane potential. The FXE administration also improved testosterone level and alpha-glucosidase activity. The sperm count also increased after treated with FXE, whereas sperm abnormality was reduced. Histopathological analysis showed that FXE successfully improved the seminiferous tubules morphology. According to these findings, fucoxanthin extract from Sargassum glaucescens can be used as an alternative for the treatment of testicular damage.


greenmedinfo--2020-03-19--Fisetin regulates gut microbiota to decrease CCR9+/CXCR3+/CD4+ T-lymphocyte count and IL-12 secretio

Fisetin regulates gut microbiota to decrease CCR9+/CXCR3+/CD4+ T-lymphocyte count and IL-12 secretion to alleviate premature ovarian failure in mice.

Currently , there are no studies reporting the efficacy of fisetin in premature ovarian failure ( POF ) .
In this study , using mouse andmodels , we found that fisetin not only significantly reversed ovarian damage in POF mice , but also effectively increasedlifespan and fertility .
Subsequently , we carried out 16S rRNA v3+v4 sequencing using fresh feces samples from each group of mice .
Results showed that although there was no significant difference in the number of gut microbiomes between the different groups of mice , fisetin affected the diversity and distribution of gut microbiota in POF @ @ @ @ @ @ @ showed that in the gut of POF mice in the fisetin group , the bacterial count of uncultured_bacterium_f_Lachnospiraceae was significantly increased , while that ofwas significantly decreased .
Finally , flow cytometry analysis showed that the numbers of CCR9/CXCR3/CD4T lymphocytes in the peripheral blood of POF mice in the fisetin group were significantly reduced , along with the number of CD4/interleukin ( IL ) -12cells .
Therefore , our data suggested that fisetin regulates the distribution and bacterial counts ofand uncultured_bacterium_f_Lachnospiracea in POF mice , and reduces peripheral blood CCR9/CXCR3/CD4T-lymphocyte count and IL-12 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reduce inflammation , thus exerting therapeutic effects against POF .

Currently, there are no studies reporting the efficacy of fisetin in premature ovarian failure (POF). In this study, using mouse andmodels, we found that fisetin not only significantly reversed ovarian damage in POF mice, but also effectively increasedlifespan and fertility. Subsequently, we carried out 16S rRNA v3+v4 sequencing using fresh feces samples from each group of mice. Results showed that although there was no significant difference in the number of gut microbiomes between the different groups of mice, fisetin affected the diversity and distribution of gut microbiota in POF mice. Alpha and beta diversity analyses showed that in the gut of POF mice in the fisetin group, the bacterial count of uncultured_bacterium_f_Lachnospiraceae was significantly increased, while that ofwas significantly decreased. Finally, flow cytometry analysis showed that the numbers of CCR9/CXCR3/CD4T lymphocytes in the peripheral blood of POF mice in the fisetin group were significantly reduced, along with the number of CD4/interleukin (IL)-12cells. Therefore, our data suggested that fisetin regulates the distribution and bacterial counts ofand uncultured_bacterium_f_Lachnospiracea in POF mice, and reduces peripheral blood CCR9/CXCR3/CD4T-lymphocyte count and IL-12 secretion to regulate the ovarian microenvironment and reduce inflammation, thus exerting therapeutic effects against POF.


greenmedinfo--2020-03-19--Fisetin may represent a potential therapeutic strategy for human oral squamous cell carcinoma.

Objective : Human oral squamous cell carcinoma ( OSCC ) is a major cause of mortality and morbidity worldwide .
@ @ @ @ @ to identify bioactive molecules and potential target genes that could inhibit carcinogenesis for OSCC therapy @ @ @ @ @ , a naturally occurring flavonoid , has been previously shown to have anti-proliferative activities in @ @ @ @ @ molecular mechanism is unknown .
Methods : Colony formation , cell viability , Boyden chamber @ @ @ @ @ tumor xenograft assays were used to detect the impact of fisetin on OSCC cells in @ @ @ @ @ Western blot analysis was used to examine the corresponding protein expression .
Results : Fisetin @ @ @ @ @ promoted apoptosis by repressing PAK4 expression .
Moreover , fisetin treatment attenuated cell migration by @ @ @ @ @ In addition , the tumor xenograft showed anti-tumor growth effects of fisetin exposure in vivo @ @ @ @ @ represent a potential therapeutic strategy for human OSCC by targeting PAK4 signaling pathways .

Objective: Human oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is a major cause of mortality and morbidity worldwide. There is an urgent need to identify bioactive molecules and potential target genes that could inhibit carcinogenesis for OSCC therapy. Fisetin (3,7,3',4'-tetrahydroxyflavone), a naturally occurring flavonoid, has been previously shown to have anti-proliferative activities in OSCC; however, its molecular mechanism is unknown.
Methods: Colony formation, cell viability, Boyden chamber, wound healing, and tumor xenograft assays were used to detect the impact of fisetin on OSCC cells in vitro and in vivo. Western blot analysis was used to examine the corresponding protein expression.
Results: Fisetin treatment significantly inhibited proliferation and promoted apoptosis by repressing PAK4 expression. Moreover, fisetin treatment attenuated cell migration by blocking PAK4 signaling pathways. In addition, the tumor xenograft showed anti-tumor growth effects of fisetin exposure in vivo.
Conclusion: Fisetin may represent a potential therapeutic strategy for human OSCC by targeting PAK4 signaling pathways.


greenmedinfo--2020-03-20--The ability of lactoferrin to cross the blood–brain barrier makes it a powerful tool to treat brain

The ability of lactoferrin to cross the blood–brain barrier makes it a powerful tool to treat brain tumors.

Despite recent advances in cancer therapy , current treatments , including radiotherapy , chemotherapy , and immunotherapy , although beneficial , present attendant side effects and long-term sequelae , usually more or less affecting quality of life of the patients .
Indeed , except for most of the immunotherapeutic agents , the complete lack of selectivity between normal and cancer cells for radio- and chemotherapy can make them potential antagonists of the host anti-cancer self-defense over time .
Recently , the use of nutraceuticals as natural compounds corroborating anti-cancer standard therapy is emerging as a promising tool for their relative @ @ @ @ @ @ @ effectiveness , and immuno-compatibility with the host .
In this review , we outlined the anti-cancer properties of Lactoferrin ( Lf ) , an iron-binding glycoprotein of the innate immune defense .
Lf shows high bioavailability after oral administration , high selectivity toward cancer cells , and a wide range of molecular targets controlling tumor proliferation , survival , migration , invasion , and metastasization .
Of note , Lf is able to promote or inhibit cell proliferation and migration depending on whether it acts upon normal or cancerous cells , respectively .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ and does not present significant adverse effects .
Moreover , Lf can prevent development or inhibit cancer growth by boosting adaptive immune response .
Finally , Lf was recently found to be an ideal carrier for chemotherapeutics , even for the treatment of brain tumors due to its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier , thus globally appearing as a promising tool for cancer prevention and treatment , especially in combination therapies .

Despite recent advances in cancer therapy, current treatments, including radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy, although beneficial, present attendant side effects and long-term sequelae, usually more or less affecting quality of life of the patients. Indeed, except for most of the immunotherapeutic agents, the complete lack of selectivity between normal and cancer cells for radio- and chemotherapy can make them potential antagonists of the host anti-cancer self-defense over time. Recently, the use of nutraceuticals as natural compounds corroborating anti-cancer standard therapy is emerging as a promising tool for their relative abundance, bioavailability, safety, low-cost effectiveness, and immuno-compatibility with the host. In this review, we outlined the anti-cancer properties of Lactoferrin (Lf), an iron-binding glycoprotein of the innate immune defense. Lf shows high bioavailability after oral administration, high selectivity toward cancer cells, and a wide range of molecular targets controlling tumor proliferation, survival, migration, invasion, and metastasization. Of note, Lf is able to promote or inhibit cell proliferation and migration depending on whether it acts upon normal or cancerous cells, respectively. Importantly, Lf administration is highly tolerated and does not present significant adverse effects. Moreover, Lf can prevent development or inhibit cancer growth by boosting adaptive immune response. Finally, Lf was recently found to be an ideal carrier for chemotherapeutics, even for the treatment of brain tumors due to its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier, thus globally appearing as a promising tool for cancer prevention and treatment, especially in combination therapies.


greenmedinfo--2020-03-20--Acupuncture or electroacupuncture combined with usual care is more effective than usual care alone f

Acupuncture or electroacupuncture combined with usual care is more effective than usual care alone for the treatment of knee osteoarthritis.

OBJECTIVE : To observe the effect of acupuncture or electroacupuncture ( EA ) combined with usual medical care for treating knee osteoarthritis ( KOA ) .
METHODS : A total of 90 patients with KOA were randomly allocated to 3 groups : usual care group ( UC group , n = 30 ) was treated by pharmacological treatment of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs ( NSAIDs ) and drugs for activating blood circulation ( Ds-ABC ) , acupuncture ( AP ) combined with usual care group ( UC group ) ( AP + UC group , n = 30 ) and EA @ @ @ @ @ @ @ UC group , n = 30 ) .
The primary outcome measurements included pain visual analogue scale/score ( VAS ) , Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index ( WOMAC Index ) and its subscales .
Secondary outcome measurement was Assessment of Quality of Life instrument version of the 36-item Short Form Health Survey ( AQoL-SF36 ) .
RESULTS : By the end of the 1st week , AP + UC group and EA + UC group exhibited statistically significant improvements in primary outcome measures , except for WOMAC stiffness , compared with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) .
Moreover , the energy/fatigue domain of AQoL-SF36 in the AP + UC group showed better results than UC group ( P < 0.05 ) .
By the end of the 2nd week , all the primary outcome measures revealed that either the AP + UC or EA + UC group demonstrating remarkable advantages compared with the UC group ( P < 0.05 ) .
The social functioning and general health domains of AQoL-SF36 in the two acupuncture-intervention groups were improved significantly than UC group ( P < 0.05 ) .
We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ domains of AQoL-SF36 in the EA + UC group demonstrated better results than UC group ( P < 0.05 ) .
CONCLUSION : AP or EA combined with usual care is more effective than usual care alone for the treatment of KOA , the intervention of electric current in the process of acupuncture may improve more domains of AQoL-SF36 in KOA patients .

OBJECTIVE: To observe the effect of acupuncture or electroacupuncture (EA) combined with usual medical care for treating knee osteoarthritis (KOA) .
METHODS: A total of 90 patients with KOA were randomly allocated to 3 groups: usual care group (UC group, n = 30) was treated by pharmacological treatment of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and drugs for activating blood circulation (Ds-ABC), acupuncture (AP) combined with usual care group (UC group) (AP + UC group, n = 30) and EA combined with UC group (EA + UC group, n = 30). The primary outcome measurements included pain visual analogue scale/score (VAS), Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC Index) and its subscales. Secondary outcome measurement was Assessment of Quality of Life instrument version of the 36-item Short Form Health Survey (AQoL-SF36).
RESULTS: By the end of the 1st week, AP + UC group and EA + UC group exhibited statistically significant improvements in primary outcome measures, except for WOMAC stiffness, compared with the UC group (P<0.05). Moreover, the energy/fatigue domain of AQoL-SF36 in the AP + UC group showed better results than UC group (P<0.05). By the end of the 2nd week, all the primary outcome measures revealed that either the AP + UC or EA + UC group demonstrating remarkable advantages compared with the UC group (P<0.05). The social functioning and general health domains of AQoL-SF36 in the two acupuncture-intervention groups were improved significantly than UC group (P<0.05). We also found the energy/fatigue and emotional wellbeing domains of AQoL-SF36 in the EA + UC group demonstrated better results than UC group (P<0.05).
CONCLUSION: AP or EA combined with usual care is more effective than usual care alone for the treatment of KOA, the intervention of electric current in the process of acupuncture may improve more domains of AQoL-SF36 in KOA patients.


greenmedinfo--2020-03-20--Acupuncture has beneficial effects for Fibromyalgia.

The treatment of fibromyalgia syndrome ( FMS ) is still far from being optimally coded , and pharmacological strategies are often unsatisfactory .
Acupuncture plays a role among nonpharmacological intervention approaches ; however , there is still no clarity as to when to integrate it into therapy .
The objective of this study is to explore the role of acupuncture , in terms of efficacy on main disease severity measures and pain features , in patients with nonresponsive disease , defining nonresponsive FMS characterized by a revised Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire ( FIQ-R ) ≥39 and a Patient Health Questionnaire 15-item @ @ @ @ @ @ @ therapy .
Patients were treated with weekly sessions , for a total of eight acupuncture sessions .
At the baseline and at the end of the treatment cycle , a comprehensive clinical evaluation was carried out to evaluate improvements in terms of disease severity and impact on neuropathic pain features ( measured with the painDETECT questionnaire ( PDQ ) ) and pain catastrophizing ( measured with the Pain Catastrophizing Scale ( PCS ) ) .
At the end of the eight-week treatment , patients experienced a significant improvement inall evaluated parameters ( for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 0.0001 , for PCS=0.001 ) .
Of particular note is the effectiveness on manifestations that are difficult to treat such as neuropathic pain features and on negative psychological perceptions such as pain catastrophizing .
It can be stated that acupuncture can be proposed also in phases of high severity of disease .
Intervention with multimodal strategies , including acupuncture , could be of great benefit to patients .

The treatment of fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) is still far from being optimally coded, and pharmacological strategies are often unsatisfactory. Acupuncture plays a role among nonpharmacological intervention approaches; however, there is still no clarity as to when to integrate it into therapy. The objective of this study is to explore the role of acupuncture, in terms of efficacy on main disease severity measures and pain features, in patients with nonresponsive disease, defining nonresponsive FMS characterized by a revised Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQ-R)≥39 and a Patient Health Questionnaire 15-item (PHQ15) ≥5 despite optimal drug therapy. Patients were treated with weekly sessions, for a total of eight acupuncture sessions. At the baseline and at the end of the treatment cycle, a comprehensive clinical evaluation was carried out to evaluate improvements in terms of disease severity and impact on neuropathic pain features (measured with the painDETECT questionnaire (PDQ)) and pain catastrophizing (measured with the Pain Catastrophizing Scale (PCS)). At the end of the eight-week treatment, patients experienced a significant improvement inall evaluated parameters (for FIQ-R, PDQ, and PHQ15<0.0001, for PCS=0.001). Of particular note is the effectiveness on manifestations that are difficult to treat such as neuropathic pain features and on negative psychological perceptions such as pain catastrophizing. It can be stated that acupuncture can be proposed also in phases of high severity of disease. Intervention with multimodal strategies, including acupuncture, could be of great benefit to patients.


greenmedinfo--2020-03-20--Acupuncture at Taichong (LR 3) acupoints lowered blood pressure in spontaneously hypertensive rats.

OBJECTIVE : To evaluate the effects of Taichong ( LR 3 ) acupuncture points ( acupoints ) on the expression of glucose transporter protein 1 ( GLUT1 ) in the hypothalamus of spontaneously hypertensive rats ( SHRs ) as measured by combined positron emission tomography and computed tomography ( PET-CT ) .
METHODS : Spontaneously hypertensive rats ( SHR ) were divided into model , Taichong ( LR 3 ) acupuncture , and sham groups .
Additionally , Tokyo Wistar rats were used as the control group .
Changes in blood pressure were recorded in different groups of rats before @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and eosin ( HE ) staining was used to study basic morphological changes , and immunohistochemistry was used to determine GLUT1 expression in the hypothalamus .
Further , PET-CT was utilized to elucidate the antihypertensive mechanism after acupuncture at the Taichong ( LR 3 ) acupoints .
RESULTS : PET-CT indicated activation of the hypothalamus .
Measurement of blood pressure showed that acupuncture at the Taichong ( LR 3 ) acupoints lowered blood pressure .
HE staining did not show any significant pathological changes , although differences in cell number were observed .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the SHRs of the Taichong ( LR 3 ) acupuncture group after the treatment .
CONCLUSION : Acupuncture at Taichong ( LR 3 ) acupoints lowered blood pressure in SHRs , with possible mechanisms being changes in cell number and GLUT1 expression in the hypothalamus .

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effects of Taichong (LR 3) acupuncture points (acupoints) on the expression of glucose transporter protein 1 (GLUT1) in the hypothalamus of spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs) as measured by combined positron emission tomography and computed tomography (PET-CT).
METHODS: Spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) were divided into model, Taichong (LR 3) acupuncture, and sham groups. Additionally, Tokyo Wistar rats were used as the control group. Changes in blood pressure were recorded in different groups of rats before and after the corresponding treatment. Hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining was used to study basic morphological changes, and immunohistochemistry was used to determine GLUT1 expression in the hypothalamus. Further, PET-CT was utilized to elucidate the antihypertensive mechanism after acupuncture at the Taichong (LR 3) acupoints.
RESULTS: PET-CT indicated activation of the hypothalamus. Measurement of blood pressure showed that acupuncture at the Taichong (LR 3) acupoints lowered blood pressure. HE staining did not show any significant pathological changes, although differences in cell number were observed. Immunohistochemical analysis indicated a GLUT1 downregulation in the SHRs of the Taichong (LR 3) acupuncture group after the treatment.
CONCLUSION: Acupuncture at Taichong (LR 3) acupoints lowered blood pressure in SHRs, with possible mechanisms being changes in cell number and GLUT1 expression in the hypothalamus.


greenmedinfo--2020-03-20--Effect of acupuncture on blood pressure control in hypertensive patients.

OBJECTIVE : To study the effect of acupuncture on blood pressure ( BP ) control in hypertensive patients .
METHODS : A total of 80 out-patients with primary hypertension at the family medicine unit and the social security unit were randomly and equally divided into an acupuncture plus medication group and a control group that received only medication .
Patients of the acupuncture group were treated with acupuncture stimulation of Yinlinquan ( SP 9 ) , Zusanli ( ST 36 ) , Taichong ( LR 3 ) , Hegu ( LI 4 ) , Quchi ( LI 11 ) , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ min , once per week , continuously for eight weeks .
In addition , both groups received amlodipine ( 5 mg ) once daily , continuously for eight weeks .
Systolic BP ( SBP ) , diastolic BP ( DBP ) and mean arterial BP ( mABP ) were recorded .
Data were analyzed by Mann-Whitney U test .
RESULTS : SBP of the 40 cases in the acupuncture group significantly improved compared to the medication only group [ Z =－ 4.265 , P ( 2-tailed ) = 0.001 ] and DBP of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the control group ( Z =－ 2.813 , P = 0.005 ) .
mABP of acupuncture group was the marked improvement in the reduction of blood pressure to that of medication group in controlling blood pressure .
( Z = －2.416 , P = 0.016 ) .
CONCLUSION : These results indicate that the effectiveness of acupuncture with the acupuncture group is superior to the only medication group in the control of hypertension .

OBJECTIVE: To study the effect of acupuncture on blood pressure (BP) control in hypertensive patients.
METHODS: A total of 80 out-patients with primary hypertension at the family medicine unit and the social security unit were randomly and equally divided into an acupuncture plus medication group and a control group that received only medication. Patients of the acupuncture group were treated with acupuncture stimulation of Yinlinquan (SP 9), Zusanli (ST 36), Taichong (LR 3), Hegu (LI 4), Quchi (LI 11), Neiguan (PC 6) for 30 min, once per week, continuously for eight weeks. In addition, both groups received amlodipine (5 mg) once daily, continuously for eight weeks. Systolic BP (SBP), diastolic BP (DBP) and mean arterial BP (mABP) were recorded. Data were analyzed by Mann-Whitney U test.
RESULTS: SBP of the 40 cases in the acupuncture group significantly improved compared to the medication only group [Z =－ 4.265, P (2-tailed) = 0.001] and DBP of acupuncture group was lower than that of the control group (Z =－ 2.813, P = 0.005). mABP of acupuncture group was the marked improvement in the reduction of blood pressure to that of medication group in controlling blood pressure. (Z = －2.416, P = 0.016).
CONCLUSION: These results indicate that the effectiveness of acupuncture with the acupuncture group is superior to the only medication group in the control of hypertension.


greenmedinfo--2020-03-20--Electroacupuncture could effectively reduce the suffering and improve the quality of life of rheumat

Electroacupuncture could effectively reduce the suffering and improve the quality of life of rheumatoid arthritis patients.

OBJECTIVE : To evaluate the effect of electroacupuncture as an adjuvant treatment with first-line medications on bone metabolism biomarkers and interleukin-17 ( IL-17 ) in the peripheral blood of patients with rheumatoid arthritis ( RA ) .
METHODS : Sixty RA patients were randomized into three groups .
The control group was treated with methotrexate plus leflunomide ( MTX+LEF ) , the acupuncture group was treated with simple needling plus MTX + LEF , and the patients in the electroacupuncture ( EA ) group were treated with EA plus MTX + LEF .
EA or acupuncture was applied every other @ @ @ @ @ @ @ over a treatment period of 8 weeks .
RESULTS : In all three treatment groups , serum levels of the bone metabolism markers PICP , N-MID , and B-ALP were elevated and the concentrations of the inflammatory markersβ-CTx , IL-17 , CRP , and TRACP-5b were reduced after treatment .
These differences were significant for the EA group but not the other groups ( P < 0.05 ) .
CONCLUSION : EA could effectively reduce the suffering and improve the quality of life of RA patients .
It is a promising adjuvant therapy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effect of electroacupuncture as an adjuvant treatment with first-line medications on bone metabolism biomarkers and interleukin-17 (IL-17) in the peripheral blood of patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).
METHODS: Sixty RA patients were randomized into three groups. The control group was treated with methotrexate plus leflunomide (MTX+LEF), the acupuncture group was treated with simple needling plus MTX + LEF, and the patients in the electroacupuncture (EA) group were treated with EA plus MTX + LEF. EA or acupuncture was applied every other day for a total of 10 times over a treatment period of 8 weeks.
RESULTS: In all three treatment groups, serum levels of the bone metabolism markers PICP, N-MID, and B-ALP were elevated and the concentrations of the inflammatory markersβ-CTx, IL-17, CRP, and TRACP-5b were reduced after treatment. These differences were significant for the EA group but not the other groups (P<0.05).
CONCLUSION: EA could effectively reduce the suffering and improve the quality of life of RA patients. It is a promising adjuvant therapy for enhancing the effectiveness of clinical therapeutics.


greenmedinfo--2020-03-20--Effect of hand-ear acupuncture on chronic low-back pain.

OBJECTIVE : To evaluate the effect of hand-ear acupuncture on chronic low-back pain ( cLBP ) .
METHODS : This was an open , randomized and controlled trial in The General Hospital of Western Theater Command , Sichuan Province .
The trial was registered with ClinicalTrials.gov , NCT02260284 .
All the 152 participates with cLBP were randomly assigned to hand-ear acupuncture ( n = 54 ) , standard acupuncture ( n = 50 ) , or usual care groups ( n = 48 ) .
Eighteen treatments were provided over 7 weeks .
Back-related dysfunction and symptom severity were assessed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) and the Visual Analogue Scale ( VAS ) , which were collected at baseline , 2 months and 6 months post to the treatment .
RESULTS : At 6 months , the RMDQ scores improved by 7.74 points of hand-ear acupuncture group .
Significant improvement of VAS and RMDQ was observed in hand-ear acupuncture group ( P < 0.001 ) , but no significant changes of RMDQ were observed in both standard acupuncture group and usual care group .
We also observed an overall efficacy rate of 88.89 % in hand-ear acupuncture @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Curative Effect Standard for Symptom pattern of Traditional Chinese Medicine , which was much higher than 45.84 % in the usual care group ( H = 16.000 , P < 0.001 ) .
CONCLUSION : Both of the hand-ear acupuncture and standard acupuncture modes have beneficial and persistent effectiveness against cLBP compared with the usual care .
Furthermore , hand-ear acupuncture is significantly more effective than the standardized acupuncture , especially in the long term .

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effect of hand-ear acupuncture on chronic low-back pain (cLBP).
METHODS: This was an open, randomized and controlled trial in The General Hospital of Western Theater Command, Sichuan Province. The trial was registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT02260284. All the 152 participates with cLBP were randomly assigned to hand-ear acupuncture (n = 54), standard acupuncture (n = 50), or usual care groups (n = 48). Eighteen treatments were provided over 7 weeks. Back-related dysfunction and symptom severity were assessed by the Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire (RMDQ) and the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), which were collected at baseline, 2 months and 6 months post to the treatment.
RESULTS: At 6 months, the RMDQ scores improved by 7.74 points of hand-ear acupuncture group. Significant improvement of VAS and RMDQ was observed in hand-ear acupuncture group (P<0.001), but no significant changes of RMDQ were observed in both standard acupuncture group and usual care group. We also observed an overall efficacy rate of 88.89% in hand-ear acupuncture group, as evaluated by Diagnosis and Curative Effect Standard for Symptom pattern of Traditional Chinese Medicine, which was much higher than 45.84% in the usual care group (H = 16.000, P<0.001).
CONCLUSION: Both of the hand-ear acupuncture and standard acupuncture modes have beneficial and persistent effectiveness against cLBP compared with the usual care. Furthermore, hand-ear acupuncture is significantly more effective than the standardized acupuncture, especially in the long term.


greenmedinfo--2020-03-20--Spirulina platensis reduced oxidative damage induced by chlorpyrifos toxicity in nile tilapia.

Due to the numerous pharmacological impacts of ( SP ) , the effects of SP on the oxidative status of Nile tilapia farmed under chlorpyrifos ( CPF ) ambient toxicity were considered in this study .
Fish ( 60± 6.1 g ) was randomly stocked in five groups where the SP free diet was fed to the control group while the second one was fed 1 % SP without CPF exposure .
Additionally , CPF ( 15 μg/L ) was added in water and fish were fed with SP at 0 , 0.5 , and 1 % ( third , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) .
Samples of blood and gills , kidneys , and liver tissues were assayed for biochemical measurements .
Fish exposed to CPF exhibited significant ( ≤ 0.05 ) increments of serum alanine aminotransferase ( ALT ) , aspartate aminotransferase ( AST ) , alkaline phosphatase ( ALP ) , cholesterol , urea , creatinine , and malondialdehyde ( MDA ) , while significantly decreased total protein , albumin , and antioxidative enzyme activities ( superoxide dismutase ( SOD ) and catalase ( CAT ) were observed in tilapia exposed to CPF ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ SP feeding resulted in decreased levels of ALT , AST , ALP , cholesterol , urea , and creatinine as well as increased total protein , albumin , SOD , and CAT activities .
Based on the obtained results , it can be suggested that SP is efficient in protecting Nile tilapia from CPF toxicity by increasing the antioxidative response .

Due to the numerous pharmacological impacts of(SP), the effects of SP on the oxidative status of Nile tilapia farmed under chlorpyrifos (CPF) ambient toxicity were considered in this study. Fish (60± 6.1 g) was randomly stocked in five groups where the SP free diet was fed to the control group while the second one was fed 1% SP without CPF exposure. Additionally, CPF (15 μg/L) was added in water and fish were fed with SP at 0, 0.5, and 1% (third, fourth, and fifth groups, respectively). Samples of blood and gills, kidneys, and liver tissues were assayed for biochemical measurements. Fish exposed to CPF exhibited significant (≤ 0.05) increments of serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), cholesterol, urea, creatinine, and malondialdehyde (MDA), while significantly decreased total protein, albumin, and antioxidative enzyme activities (superoxide dismutase (SOD)and catalase (CAT) were observed in tilapia exposed to CPF (≤ 0.05). In contrast, SP feeding resulted in decreased levels of ALT, AST, ALP, cholesterol, urea, and creatinine as well as increased total protein, albumin, SOD, and CAT activities. Based on the obtained results, it can be suggested that SP is efficient in protecting Nile tilapia from CPF toxicity by increasing the antioxidative response.


greenmedinfo--2020-03-20--Effects of different probiotic combinations on the components and bioactivity of spirulina.

Spirulina acts as a good dietary nutritional supplement .
However , few research studies have been conducted on its fermentation .
Three groups of probiotic combinations , lactic acid bacteria , Bacillus strains , and their mixture , were used to investigate Spirulina fermentation .
The results showed that lactic acid bacteria significantly increased the content of amino acids and the ratio of essential amino acids to total amino acids in the fermented Spirulina , compared with the unfermented Spirulina , and this trend was enhanced by the strains ' mixture .
However , compared to unfermented Spirulina , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fermentation with Bacillus strains and so was the total free amino acid and essential aminoacid content .
Fermentation significantly reduced the contents of the offensive components of Spirulina , with significant differences among the three mixed bacterial treatments .
Moreover , Bacillus strain fermentation increased the contents of flavonoids and polyphenols compared to the unfermented Spirulina , and significantly enhanced 1,1-diphenyl-2-trinitrophenylhydrazine free-radical scavenging ability and total antioxidant ability .
On the contrary , treatments with lactic acid bacteria and the mixture of lactic acid bacteria and Bacillus strains endowed the fermented supernatants with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that probiotic fermentation has a good effect on Spirulina and can serve as a new procedure for developing new Spirulina-containing food items .

Spirulina acts as a good dietary nutritional supplement. However, few research studies have been conducted on its fermentation. Three groups of probiotic combinations, lactic acid bacteria, Bacillus strains, and their mixture, were used to investigate Spirulina fermentation. The results showed that lactic acid bacteria significantly increased the content of amino acids and the ratio of essential amino acids to total amino acids in the fermented Spirulina, compared with the unfermented Spirulina, and this trend was enhanced by the strains' mixture. However, compared to unfermented Spirulina, the amino acid levels were significantly decreased after fermentation with Bacillus strains and so was the total free amino acid and essential aminoacid content. Fermentation significantly reduced the contents of the offensive components of Spirulina, with significant differences among the three mixed bacterial treatments. Moreover, Bacillus strain fermentation increased the contents of flavonoids and polyphenols compared to the unfermented Spirulina, and significantly enhanced 1,1-diphenyl-2-trinitrophenylhydrazine free-radical scavenging ability and total antioxidant ability. On the contrary, treatments with lactic acid bacteria and the mixture of lactic acid bacteria and Bacillus strains endowed the fermented supernatants with good antibacterial ability. The results showed that probiotic fermentation has a good effect on Spirulina and can serve as a new procedure for developing new Spirulina-containing food items.


greenmedinfo--2020-03-20--Berberine reverses doxorubicin resistance in breast cancer cells by inhibiting autophagy.

Purpose : Berberine ( BBR ) , a traditional Chinese medicine , has been shown effects on inhibiting cancer development .
Autophagy-mediated resistance plays an important role in cancer progression ; therefore , regulation of autophagy is a novel therapeutic strategy for cancer treatment .
However , effects of BBR on autophagy-mediated resistance have not been reported .
Methods : MCF-7 breast cancer cells and the doxorubicin ( ADR ) -resistant MCF-7 cells ( MCF-7/ADR ) were used for analyses .
Western blotting was conducted to evaluate protein expression ; MTT , colony formation , and EdU assays were conducted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ microscopy was used to monitor autophagy levels ; and a xenograft tumor model was established to assess the effects of BBR on reversing doxorubicin resistance .
Results : We confirmed that BBR , recently identified as a suppressor of autophagy , inhibits autophagosome formation in MCF-7/ADR cells .
Treatment with BBR blocked the accumulation of the autophagy-associated protein LC3II , resulting in cellular accumulation of p62 , reduced cell proliferation , and reversal of doxorubicin resistance .
Mechanistically , we found that BBR inhibited autophagy by modulating the PTEN/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway .
In @ @ @ @ @ @ @ exerts clear anti-tumor effects .
Conclusion : The results of this study suggest that BBR reverses doxorubicin resistance in breast cancer cells by inhibiting autophagy .
This finding highlights the potential clinical application of BBR in the treatment of breast cancer .

Purpose: Berberine (BBR), a traditional Chinese medicine, has been shown effects on inhibiting cancer development. Autophagy-mediated resistance plays an important role in cancer progression; therefore, regulation of autophagy is a novel therapeutic strategy for cancer treatment. However, effects of BBR on autophagy-mediated resistance have not been reported.
Methods: MCF-7 breast cancer cells and the doxorubicin (ADR)-resistant MCF-7 cells (MCF-7/ADR) were used for analyses. Western blotting was conducted to evaluate protein expression; MTT, colony formation, and EdU assays were conducted to assess cell proliferation; transmission electron microscopy was used to monitor autophagy levels; and a xenograft tumor model was established to assess the effects of BBR on reversing doxorubicin resistance.
Results: We confirmed that BBR, recently identified as a suppressor of autophagy, inhibits autophagosome formation in MCF-7/ADR cells. Treatment with BBR blocked the accumulation of the autophagy-associated protein LC3II, resulting in cellular accumulation of p62, reduced cell proliferation, and reversal of doxorubicin resistance. Mechanistically, we found that BBR inhibited autophagy by modulating the PTEN/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway. In vivo, our study showed that BBR exerts clear anti-tumor effects.
Conclusion: The results of this study suggest that BBR reverses doxorubicin resistance in breast cancer cells by inhibiting autophagy. This finding highlights the potential clinical application of BBR in the treatment of breast cancer.


greenmedinfo--2020-03-20--In-vitro synergistic effect of metformin and berberine on high glucose-induced lipogenesis.

Metformin and berberine have been reported to have lipid lowering effects .
This study aims to investigate lipid lowering effects of berberine and Metformin , alone and in combination , in HepG2 cells to determine whether berberine and Metformin work synergistically and elucidate their mechanisms .
HepG2 cells were treated with 33 mM glucose in the presence of various concentrations of berberine and Metformin , alone and in combination , for 24 h. The cytotoxic effects of these compounds were determined by MTT assay .
Oil red O staining , triglyceride measurement , and gene expression analyses were performed to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hepatocytes lipogenesis .
Berberine at doses 20 µM and 40 µM and Metformin at doses 1mM and 2 mM reduced total lipid content and triglyceride level in HepG2 cells .
Metformin ( mM ) and berberine ( µM ) at combination ratios of 2:40 , 1:20 , 0.5:10 , and 0.25:5 exhibited a synergistic lipid-lowering effect on HepG2 cells .
These ratios could significantly decrease total lipid content and triglyceride level in HepG2 cells .
The lowest dose of the combination [ Metformin ( 0.25 mM ) and berberine ( 5 μM ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the FAS and SREBP-1c genes in HepG2 cells treated with high glucose .
The combination of Metformin and berberine exerted synergistic lipid-lowering effects on HepG2 cells by reducing total lipid content , triglyceride level , and the expression of the genes involved in lipogenesis .

Metformin and berberine have been reported to have lipid lowering effects. This study aims to investigate lipid lowering effects of berberine and Metformin, alone and in combination, in HepG2 cells to determine whether berberine and Metformin work synergistically and elucidate their mechanisms. HepG2 cells were treated with 33 mM glucose in the presence of various concentrations of berberine and Metformin, alone and in combination, for 24 h. The cytotoxic effects of these compounds were determined by MTT assay. Oil red O staining, triglyceride measurement, and gene expression analyses were performed to evaluate the effects of these compounds on hepatocytes lipogenesis. Berberine at doses 20 µM and 40 µM and Metformin at doses 1mM and 2 mM reduced total lipid content and triglyceride level in HepG2 cells. Metformin (mM) and berberine (µM) at combination ratios of 2:40, 1:20, 0.5:10, and 0.25:5 exhibited a synergistic lipid-lowering effect on HepG2 cells. These ratios could significantly decrease total lipid content and triglyceride level in HepG2 cells. The lowest dose of the combination [Metformin (0.25 mM) and berberine (5 μM)] also synergistically reduced the expression of the FAS and SREBP-1c genes in HepG2 cells treated with high glucose. The combination of Metformin and berberine exerted synergistic lipid-lowering effects on HepG2 cells by reducing total lipid content, triglyceride level, and the expression of the genes involved in lipogenesis.


greenmedinfo--2020-03-20--A combination of Tamarindus indica seeds and Curcuma longa extracts improves knee joint function and

A combination of Tamarindus indica seeds and Curcuma longa extracts improves knee joint function and alleviates pain.

: Knee joint pain is the most common reason for physical disability which associates with age .
TamaFlex ( NXT15906F6 ) is a synergistic anti-inflammatory formulation which contains ethanol/aqueous extracts ofseeds and ethanol extract ofrhizome .
: In a 90-day randomized , double-blind , placebo-controlled study , we evaluated efficacy of NXT15906F6 in relieving pain and improving joint function in non-arthritic adults .
Ninety non-arthritic subjects who experienced knee pain and joint discomfort following a six-minute walk test ( SMWT ) and Stair climb test ( SCT ) participated in the present trial .
Subjects received either 250 mg ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) of NXT15906F6 or matched placebo ( PL : n=30 ) daily for 90 days .
Improvement from baseline six-minute walk distance ( SMWD ) in NXT15906F6 groups , compared with placebo ( PL ) was the primary outcome of the study .
: At post-intervention , subjects in NXT15906F6-250 ( p < 0.001 ) and NXT15906F6-400 ( p < 0.0001 ) groups showed substantial improvements in mean changes of SMWD from baseline compared to placebo .
The 250 mg and 400 mg NXT15906F6 groups also improved average walking speed from baseline by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ m/s ( p < 0.0001 ) , respectively .
The NXT15906F6 groups experienced significant improvement in SMWT performances as early as 14 days .
NXT15906F6-supplemented participants showed a consistent benefit of pain relief and improved musculoskeletal functions , compared to placebo .
: NXT15906F6 provided substantial relief from knee pain after physical activity and improved joint function in non-arthritic adults .
Study participants did not show any major adverse events , and they tolerated well this novel herbal formulation .

: Knee joint pain is the most common reason for physical disability which associates with age. TamaFlex(NXT15906F6) is a synergistic anti-inflammatory formulation which contains ethanol/aqueous extracts ofseeds and ethanol extract ofrhizome.: In a 90-day randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, we evaluated efficacy of NXT15906F6 in relieving pain and improving joint function in non-arthritic adults. Ninety non-arthritic subjects who experienced knee pain and joint discomfort following a six-minute walk test (SMWT) and Stair climb test (SCT) participated in the present trial. Subjects received either 250 mg (n=30) or 400 mg (n=30) of NXT15906F6 or matched placebo (PL: n=30) daily for 90 days. Improvement from baseline six-minute walk distance (SMWD) in NXT15906F6 groups, compared with placebo (PL) was the primary outcome of the study.: At post-intervention, subjects in NXT15906F6-250 (p<0.001) and NXT15906F6-400 (p<0.0001) groups showed substantial improvements in mean changes of SMWD from baseline compared to placebo. The 250 mg and 400 mg NXT15906F6 groups also improved average walking speed from baseline by 0.08±0.07 m/s (p=0.0010) and 0.11±0.08 m/s (p<0.0001), respectively. The NXT15906F6 groups experienced significant improvement in SMWT performances as early as 14 days. NXT15906F6-supplemented participants showed a consistent benefit of pain relief and improved musculoskeletal functions, compared to placebo.: NXT15906F6 provided substantial relief from knee pain after physical activity and improved joint function in non-arthritic adults. Study participants did not show any major adverse events, and they tolerated well this novel herbal formulation.


greenmedinfo--2020-03-20--Anti-inflammatory and analgesic potential of Tamarindus indica Linn. (Fabaceae): a narrative review.

Chronic inflammation is one of the causes of a number of non-infectious diseases in the world .
Over the years , has played fundamental roles in traditional medicine as an anti-inflammatory and analgesic drug .
It is a commercialized biocompatible medicinal plant species with a wide range of therapeutic window and with suggested LD50 greater than 5000 mg kgbody weight when administered to the Wistar rats .
This review examined the anti-inflammatory and analgesic potential and mechanism of various extracts frompulp , leaves , seeds , stem bark , and roots .
The preclinical studies provided strong pharmacological evidence for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ different parts ofand this may be attributed to the various bioactive compounds in it including alkaloids , flavonoids , tannins , phenols , saponins , and steroids .
The anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects of the extracts from the different parts ofmay be due to its ability to inhibit a number of biological processes including cyclooxygenase-2 ( COX-2 ) expression , inducible nitric oxide synthase ( iNOS ) , 5-lipoxygenase biosynthesis , and tumor necrosis factor-α .
The analgesic activity ofmay also be through the activation of the opioidergic mechanism at both the peripheral @ @ @ @ @ @ @ studies still need to be conducted , these results demonstrated thathas potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic activities and hence provides justification for its use in traditional medicine to treat body pain and other inflammatory related diseases including arthritis and offers a basis for future clinical studies and possible drug development .

Chronic inflammation is one of the causes of a number of non-infectious diseases in the world. Over the years,has played fundamental roles in traditional medicine as an anti-inflammatory and analgesic drug. It is a commercialized biocompatible medicinal plant species with a wide range of therapeutic window and with suggested LD50 greater than 5000 mg kgbody weight when administered to the Wistar rats. This review examined the anti-inflammatory and analgesic potential and mechanism of various extracts frompulp, leaves, seeds, stem bark, and roots. The preclinical studies provided strong pharmacological evidence for the anti-inflammatory and analgesic activities of the different parts ofand this may be attributed to the various bioactive compounds in it including alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, phenols, saponins, and steroids. The anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects of the extracts from the different parts ofmay be due to its ability to inhibit a number of biological processes including cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) expression, inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), 5-lipoxygenase biosynthesis, and tumor necrosis factor-α. The analgesic activity ofmay also be through the activation of the opioidergic mechanism at both the peripheral and central levels. Although further pre-clinical studies still need to be conducted, these results demonstrated thathas potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic activities and hence provides justification for its use in traditional medicine to treat body pain and other inflammatory related diseases including arthritis and offers a basis for future clinical studies and possible drug development.


greenmedinfo--2020-03-20--Efficacy evaluation of ethanolic extract of Tamarindus indica L. leaves as possible alternate therap

Efficacy evaluation of ethanolic extract of Tamarindus indica L. leaves as possible alternate therapy in septic arthritis model of rabbit

BACKGROUND : Our previous study exhibited free radicals scavenging and antioxidant activities of ethanolic and aqueous extracts of Tamarindus indica L. leaves in chronic sodium fluoride poisoning in rats .
Tamarindus indica L. seed extract was also reported to have anti-arthritic efficacy by inhibiting cartilage and bone degrading factors .
Therefore , an attempt was made to evaluate the effects of ethanolic extract of Tamarindus indica L. leaves in septic arthritis .
METHODS : The safety study was performed by oral dosing of ethanolic extract of the plant leaves at 2 g kgfor consecutive 28 days in rabbits .
Septic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ intra-articular inoculation of 10c.f.u .
of Staphylococcus aureus to the left stifle joint and was monitored by bacterial colony count , some relevant biochemical parameters and histopathological interpretation of the affected joint .
For efficacy evaluation in septic arthritis , linezolid at 75 mg kgtwice daily for 10 days and the ethanolic extract of Tamarindus indica L. at 500 and 1000 mg kgfor consecutive 14 days were administered orally to the rabbits after 48 h of induction of arthritis .
RESULTS : In sub-acute toxicity study of Tamarindus indica L. leaves ethanolic extract @ @ @ @ @ @ @ found for aspertate aminotransferase , alanine transaminase , alkaline phosphatase , blood urea nitrogen and creatinine compared to day 0 values of the same group .
The bacterial colony count of synovial fluid following Staphylococcus aureus inoculation to left stifle joint was found to be 1.08 ± 0.47 and 1.19 ± 0.29 c.f.u .
mLin ethanolic extract low dose and high dose groups respectively , on day 2 which was reduced to 0.057 ± 0.036 c.f.u .
mLand nil on day 16 .
The test extract was also found to markedly reduce simultaneous @ @ @ @ @ @ @ serum and synovial fluid , joint radius and joint narrowing .
CONCLUSION : Ethanolic extract of Tamarindus indica L. leaves at 500 mg kgand 1000 mg kgproduced anti-arthritic effects against S. aureus induced septic arthritis in rabbits .
However , the ethanolic extract at 1000 mg kgorally for consecutive 14 days showed better effects in septic arthritis .

BACKGROUND: Our previous study exhibited free radicals scavenging and antioxidant activities of ethanolic and aqueous extracts of Tamarindus indica L. leaves in chronic sodium fluoride poisoning in rats. Tamarindus indica L. seed extract was also reported to have anti-arthritic efficacy by inhibiting cartilage and bone degrading factors. Therefore, an attempt was made to evaluate the effects of ethanolic extract of Tamarindus indica L. leaves in septic arthritis.
METHODS: The safety study was performed by oral dosing of ethanolic extract of the plant leaves at 2 g kgfor consecutive 28 days in rabbits. Septic arthritis was induced in rabbits by single intra-articular inoculation of 10c.f.u. of Staphylococcus aureus to the left stifle joint and was monitored by bacterial colony count, some relevant biochemical parameters and histopathological interpretation of the affected joint. For efficacy evaluation in septic arthritis, linezolid at 75 mg kgtwice daily for 10 days and the ethanolic extract of Tamarindus indica L. at 500 and 1000 mg kgfor consecutive 14 days were administered orally to the rabbits after 48 h of induction of arthritis.
RESULTS: In sub-acute toxicity study of Tamarindus indica L. leaves ethanolic extract, no significant change between days was found for aspertate aminotransferase, alanine transaminase, alkaline phosphatase, blood urea nitrogen and creatinine compared to day 0 values of the same group. The bacterial colony count of synovial fluid following Staphylococcus aureus inoculation to left stifle joint was found to be 1.08 ± 0.47 and 1.19 ± 0.29 c.f.u. mLin ethanolic extract low dose and high dose groups respectively, on day 2 which was reduced to 0.057 ± 0.036 c.f.u. mLand nil on day 16. The test extract was also found to markedly reduce simultaneous glucose difference, total protein ratio of serum and synovial fluid, joint radius and joint narrowing.
CONCLUSION: Ethanolic extract of Tamarindus indica L. leaves at 500 mg kgand 1000 mg kgproduced anti-arthritic effects against S. aureus induced septic arthritis in rabbits. However, the ethanolic extract at 1000 mg kgorally for consecutive 14 days showed better effects in septic arthritis.


greenmedinfo--2020-03-20--The intake of an extract from seeds of Tamarindus indica L. modulates the endocrine function of adul

The intake of an extract from seeds of Tamarindus indica L. modulates the endocrine function of adult male mice under a high fat diet.

TBP is a natural product fromseeds used as a natural remedy in India .
This product is an antioxidant and may have beneficial effects on endocrine and metabolic functions .
However , the regulatory mechanisms involved remain to be elucidated .
In males , testosterone is synthesized by Leydig cells from the testis .
With aging and obesity , testis function declines , leading to decreased testosterone synthesis .
The aim of the current research is to determine how TBP improves testosterone production in male mice under a high fat diet leading to hypoandrogenic condition .
Using C2C12 myoblast cells @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mitochondrial mass and oxygen respiration , as well as the production of the IGF-1 hormone .
In addition , treatment of TM3 Leydig cells with TBP resulted in increased testosterone production .
In mice under a high fat diet , TBP lowered blood glucose level and corticosterone production and improved total testosterone production after five weeks of treatment .
In addition , testicular expressions of genes encoding the mitochondrial transporter of cholesterol ( ) and steroidogenic enzymes ( , ,and ) were increased by TBP .
Hence , TBP may prevent the detrimental @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fat diet and may have health benefits on the endocrine function .

TBP is a natural product fromseeds used as a natural remedy in India. This product is an antioxidant and may have beneficial effects on endocrine and metabolic functions. However, the regulatory mechanisms involved remain to be elucidated. In males, testosterone is synthesized by Leydig cells from the testis. With aging and obesity, testis function declines, leading to decreased testosterone synthesis. The aim of the current research is to determine how TBP improves testosterone production in male mice under a high fat diet leading to hypoandrogenic condition. Using C2C12 myoblast cells, we have found that TBP increased mitochondrial mass and oxygen respiration, as well as the production of the IGF-1 hormone. In addition, treatment of TM3 Leydig cells with TBP resulted in increased testosterone production. In mice under a high fat diet, TBP lowered blood glucose level and corticosterone production and improved total testosterone production after five weeks of treatment. In addition, testicular expressions of genes encoding the mitochondrial transporter of cholesterol () and steroidogenic enzymes (,,and) were increased by TBP. Hence, TBP may prevent the detrimental effects of long-term consumption of a high fat diet and may have health benefits on the endocrine function.


greenmedinfo--2020-03-20--Consumption of tamarind fruit pulp with daily dose of 20 g has no significant effects on body weight

Background : Animal studies have shown the anti-obesity effects ofL .
( tamarind ) fruit pulp .
This study aimed to evaluate the weight-reducing effects ofL .
fruit as well as its blood pressure- and lipid-lowering effects in a clinical trial .
Methods : In a randomized controlled clinical trial , obese and overweight patients were randomly and equally assigned to tamarind and control groups .
Both groups were instructed proper diet and maintaining physical activity for 6 weeks .
Furthermore , the participants of tamarind group were instructed to consume 10 grams of tamarind fruit pulp twice daily with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mass index ( BMI ) , waist circumference , systolic blood pressure ( SBP ) and diastolic blood pressure ( DBP ) , fasting serum levels of glucose ( fasting plasma glucose , FPG ) , total cholesterol , triglycerides ( TG ) , low-density lipoprotein cholesterol ( LDL-C ) , and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ( HDL-C ) were determined and recorded for all patients pre- and post-intervention .
Results : Twenty patients in each group completed the study .
Tamarind significantly reduced BMI , WC , LDL-C , SBP , and DBP @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of these effects were statistically significant compared to control group .
Conclusions : Consumption of tamarind fruit pulp with daily dose of 20 g has no significant effects on body weight , waist circumference , serum lipid profile , blood glucose , and blood pressure .

Background: Animal studies have shown the anti-obesity effects ofL. (tamarind) fruit pulp. This study aimed to evaluate the weight-reducing effects ofL. fruit as well as its blood pressure- and lipid-lowering effects in a clinical trial.
Methods: In a randomized controlled clinical trial, obese and overweight patients were randomly and equally assigned to tamarind and control groups. Both groups were instructed proper diet and maintaining physical activity for 6 weeks. Furthermore, the participants of tamarind group were instructed to consume 10 grams of tamarind fruit pulp twice daily with meals for the same period. Body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP), fasting serum levels of glucose (fasting plasma glucose, FPG), total cholesterol, triglycerides (TG), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) were determined and recorded for all patients pre- and post-intervention.
Results: Twenty patients in each group completed the study. Tamarind significantly reduced BMI, WC, LDL-C, SBP, and DBP compared to baseline. However, none of these effects were statistically significant compared to control group.
Conclusions: Consumption of tamarind fruit pulp with daily dose of 20 g has no significant effects on body weight, waist circumference, serum lipid profile, blood glucose, and blood pressure.


greenmedinfo--2020-03-20--The neonicotinoid pesticide thiacloprid destabilizes DNA.

The application of pesticides and chemical fertilizers constitutes a potential risk to human and animals due to the presence of @ @ @ @ @ .
Thiacloprid belongs to a group of neonicotinoid insecticides .
It shows a cytotoxic/cytostatic effect @ @ @ @ @ probably due to DNA damage .
The use of thiacloprid is increasingly widespread worldwide , @ @ @ @ @ assessment of its possible genotoxic and cytotoxic effects on a living organism .
That is @ @ @ @ @ the thiacloprid influence on the structure and stability of DNA in presented work .
We @ @ @ @ @ interaction with calf thymus DNA .
Association constant was determined by fluorescence spectroscopy using equilibrium @ @ @ @ @ thermal denaturation of DNA was used to identify the mode of interaction .
Viscosity changes @ @ @ @ @ intercalation mode of interaction .
Given the results , we can conclude that neonicotinoid pesticide @ @ @ @ @ changes the structure and stability of DNA through binding into the minor groove by hydrophobic @ @ @ @

The application of pesticides and chemical fertilizers constitutes a potential risk to human and animals due to the presence of their residues in the food. Thiacloprid belongs to a group of neonicotinoid insecticides. It shows a cytotoxic/cytostatic effect in human peripheral blood lymphocytes probably due to DNA damage. The use of thiacloprid is increasingly widespread worldwide, therefore is very important the assessment of its possible genotoxic and cytotoxic effects on a living organism. That is the reason why we studied the thiacloprid influence on the structure and stability of DNA in presented work. We have been studied the thiacloprid interaction with calf thymus DNA. Association constant was determined by fluorescence spectroscopy using equilibrium receptor-ligand binding analysis. The thermal denaturation of DNA was used to identify the mode of interaction. Viscosity changes were recorded to confirm/disconfirm the intercalation mode of interaction. Given the results, we can conclude that neonicotinoid pesticide thiacloprid destabilizes DNA. It changes the structure and stability of DNA through binding into the minor groove by hydrophobic or hydrogen interactions.


greenmedinfo--2020-03-20--Neuroprotective effects of mitochondria-targeted curcumin against rotenone-induced oxidative damage

Neuroprotective effects of mitochondria-targeted curcumin against rotenone-induced oxidative damage in cerebellum.

The present study investigated the protective effect of curcumin and mitochondrial-targeted curcumin ( MTC ) in rotenone-induced cerebellar toxicity in @ @ @ @ @ in mice significantly shortened the stride length for both forelimb and hind-limb and increased fore-paws @ @ @ @ @ Co-treatment of curcumin and MTC with rotenone improved the walking pattern .
A significant increase @ @ @ @ @ oxide and decreased activity of AChE , reduced glutathione , superoxide dismutase and catalase were @ @ @ @ @ co-treatment of curcumin and MTC with rotenone significantly increased AChE activity and protected against rotenone-induced @ @ @ @ @ mice showed irregular , damaged Purkinje cells and perineuronal vacuolation while co-treatment of curcumin and @ @ @ @ @ rotenone-induced cellular damage in these cells .
The result exhibits that both curcumin and MTC @ @ @ @ @ cerebellar toxicity in mice and MTC is more effective than curcumin .

The present study investigated the protective effect of curcumin and mitochondrial-targeted curcumin (MTC) in rotenone-induced cerebellar toxicity in mice. Treatment of rotenone in mice significantly shortened the stride length for both forelimb and hind-limb and increased fore-paws and hind-limb base width. Co-treatment of curcumin and MTC with rotenone improved the walking pattern. A significant increase in lipid peroxidation, nitric oxide and decreased activity of AChE, reduced glutathione, superoxide dismutase and catalase were observed in rotenone-treated mice while co-treatment of curcumin and MTC with rotenone significantly increased AChE activity and protected against rotenone-induced oxidative damage. Rotenone exposed mice showed irregular, damaged Purkinje cells and perineuronal vacuolation while co-treatment of curcumin and MTC with rotenone protected against rotenone-induced cellular damage in these cells. The result exhibits that both curcumin and MTC showed protective effects against rotenone-induced cerebellar toxicity in mice and MTC is more effective than curcumin.


greenmedinfo--2020-03-20--The results of the current study reveal the neuroprotective competency of piperine against Huntingto

The results of the current study reveal the neuroprotective competency of piperine against Huntington disease like symptoms.

Piperine ( PIP ) is a powerful anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory alkaloid which has been widely used in the treatment of various pathological conditions .
However , few studies have clearly discussed the protective effects and potential mechanism of PIP in different neurological diseases .
The aim of this study was to investigate the neuroprotective effect of PIP against 3-nitropropioninc acid ( 3-NP ) induced neurobehavioral , biochemical and histopathological alterations in animals.Adult male Wistar rats were randomly divided into three groups .
Group 1 , the vehicle administered control group , received normal saline ( p.o. )
.
Group 2 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . )
for 4 consecutive days .
Group 3 received PIP ( 10 mg/kg.b.wt.
, p.o . )
twice daily for a period of 4 days , 30 min before and 6 h after the 3-NP injection .
Upon termination of treatment schedule , behavioral experiments were performed to access the behavioral outcomes .
The brain striatal tissue was used for the estimation of monoamine oxidase activity and serotonin level .
In addition , astrocytes activation was observed by GFAP immunostaining.Our results showed that 3-NP induced behavioral impairments are attenuated by PIP co-treatment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ loss and astrocytes activation was reduced in the striatal brain region in PIP treated rats .
Finally , it was observed that PIP alleviated the behavioral , biochemical , immunohistochemical and histological alterations.The results of the current study reveal the neuroprotective competency of PIP against Huntington disease like symptoms in rats .

Piperine (PIP) is a powerful anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory alkaloid which has been widely used in the treatment of various pathological conditions. However, few studies have clearly discussed the protective effects and potential mechanism of PIP in different neurological diseases. The aim of this study was to investigate the neuroprotective effect of PIP against 3-nitropropioninc acid (3-NP) induced neurobehavioral, biochemical and histopathological alterations in animals.Adult male Wistar rats were randomly divided into three groups. Group 1, the vehicle administered control group, received normal saline (p.o.). Group 2 received 3-NP (20 mg/kg.b.wt., i.p.) for 4 consecutive days. Group 3 received PIP (10 mg/kg.b.wt., p.o.) twice daily for a period of 4 days, 30 min before and 6 h after the 3-NP injection. Upon termination of treatment schedule, behavioral experiments were performed to access the behavioral outcomes. The brain striatal tissue was used for the estimation of monoamine oxidase activity and serotonin level. In addition, astrocytes activation was observed by GFAP immunostaining.Our results showed that 3-NP induced behavioral impairments are attenuated by PIP co-treatment. Next, the extent of neuronal loss and astrocytes activation was reduced in the striatal brain region in PIP treated rats. Finally, it was observed that PIP alleviated the behavioral, biochemical, immunohistochemical and histological alterations.The results of the current study reveal the neuroprotective competency of PIP against Huntington disease like symptoms in rats.


greenmedinfo--2020-03-20--Curcumin and piperine-loaded emulsomes as combinational treatment approach enhance the anticancer ac

Curcumin and piperine-loaded emulsomes as combinational treatment approach enhance the anticancer activity of curcumin on HCT116 colorectal cancer model.

Combination chemotherapy , administrating two chemotherapeutic agents concurrently , comes into prominence , as the heterogeneity or the level of the disease necessitates a collaborative action .
Curcumin , isolated from turmeric , and piperine , isolated from black long pepper , are two dietary polyphenols studied for their intrinsic anti-cancer properties against various cancer types including colorectal cancer ( CRC ) .
Furthermore , piperine improves the therapeutic effect of curcumin .
Addressing this mutual behavior , this study combines curcumin and piperine within emulsome nanoformulations .
Curcumin- ( CurcuEmulsomes ) and piperine-loaded emulsomes ( PiperineEmulsomes ) have established @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with average diameters of 184.21 and 248.76 nm , respectively .
The solid tripalmitin inner core achieved encapsulation capacities of up to 0.10 mg/ml curcumin and 0.09 mg/ml piperine content .
While piperine treatment alone - in its both free and emulsome forms - showed no inhibition in the proliferation of HCT116 cells , its presence as the second drug agent enhanced curcumin 's effect .
Combination of 7μM PiperineEmulsome and 25 μM CurcuEmulsome concentrations was found to be most effective with an inhibition of cell proliferation of about 50 % viability .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ induced apoptosis verified the improved anti-cancer characteristics of the therapy .
While CurcuEmulsomes achieved a fourfold increase in Caspase 3 level , combination of treatment with PiperineEulsomes achieved a sixfold increase in the level of this apoptotic marker .
Combinational treatment of HCT116 cells with CurcuEmulsomes and PiperineEmulsomes improved the anticancer activity of the compounds and highlighted the potential of the approach for furtherstudies .

Combination chemotherapy, administrating two chemotherapeutic agents concurrently, comes into prominence, as the heterogeneity or the level of the disease necessitates a collaborative action. Curcumin, isolated from turmeric, and piperine, isolated from black long pepper, are two dietary polyphenols studied for their intrinsic anti-cancer properties against various cancer types including colorectal cancer (CRC). Furthermore, piperine improves the therapeutic effect of curcumin. Addressing this mutual behavior, this study combines curcumin and piperine within emulsome nanoformulations. Curcumin- (CurcuEmulsomes) and piperine-loaded emulsomes (PiperineEmulsomes) have established a uniform, stable, spherical dispersion with average diameters of 184.21 and 248.76 nm, respectively. The solid tripalmitin inner core achieved encapsulation capacities of up to 0.10 mg/ml curcumin and 0.09 mg/ml piperine content. While piperine treatment alone - in its both free and emulsome forms - showed no inhibition in the proliferation of HCT116 cells, its presence as the second drug agent enhanced curcumin's effect. Combination of 7μM PiperineEmulsome and 25 μM CurcuEmulsome concentrations was found to be most effective with an inhibition of cell proliferation of about 50% viability. Cell cycle arrest at G2/M phase and induced apoptosis verified the improved anti-cancer characteristics of the therapy. While CurcuEmulsomes achieved a fourfold increase in Caspase 3 level, combination of treatment with PiperineEulsomes achieved a sixfold increase in the level of this apoptotic marker. Combinational treatment of HCT116 cells with CurcuEmulsomes and PiperineEmulsomes improved the anticancer activity of the compounds and highlighted the potential of the approach for furtherstudies.


greenmedinfo--2020-03-20--Protection of curcumin against streptozocin-induced pancreatic cell destruction in T2D rats.

As a kind of traditional Chinese medicine extract , curcumin has been proven to be effective in inhibiting inflammation and apoptosis in pancreatic isletcells in the streptozotocin-induced diabetes mellitus rat model , although the underlying mechanism has not yet been clarified .
To examine the effect of curcumin on inflammation and apoptosis in pancreatic isletcells , we established a type 2 diabetes rat model by feeding the animals a high-fat diet and intraperitoneally injecting streptozotocin .
The curcumin was administered by intraperitoneal injection .
The rat body weight , fasting blood glucose , intraperitoneal glucose tolerance tests , and insulin @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Hematoxylin and eosin staining was used for morphological analysis , and a TUNEL assay was performed to detect the apoptotic cells .
The expression levels of proteins related to oxidative stress , inflammation and apoptosis were detected by Western blotting and ELISA .
Curcumin administration significantly decreased fasting blood glucose and promoted recovery of pancreas function in type 2 diabetes rats .
In curcumin-treated rats , the pancreatic tissue destruction and apoptosis index were reduced .
The expression of IL-1 , IL-6 , TNF- , caspase-3 , Bax , and malondialdehyde were significantly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2 , and glutathione peroxidase were significantly increased .
Curcumin inhibited the expression of phosphorylated JNK and NF-B proteins to block the RAGE/JNK/NF-B signaling pathway .
In conclusion , these results indicate that curcumin blocks the phosphorylation of JNK and NF-B protein to inhibit this signaling pathway , thereby further inhibiting inflammation and apoptosis in pancreatic isletcells .
Curcumin has potential value for the treatment of diabetes .

As a kind of traditional Chinese medicine extract, curcumin has been proven to be effective in inhibiting inflammation and apoptosis in pancreatic isletcells in the streptozotocin-induced diabetes mellitus rat model, although the underlying mechanism has not yet been clarified. To examine the effect of curcumin on inflammation and apoptosis in pancreatic isletcells, we established a type 2 diabetes rat model by feeding the animals a high-fat diet and intraperitoneally injecting streptozotocin. The curcumin was administered by intraperitoneal injection. The rat body weight, fasting blood glucose, intraperitoneal glucose tolerance tests, and insulin tolerance tests were recorded and analyzed. Hematoxylin and eosin staining was used for morphological analysis, and a TUNEL assay was performed to detect the apoptotic cells. The expression levels of proteins related to oxidative stress, inflammation and apoptosis were detected by Western blotting and ELISA. Curcumin administration significantly decreased fasting blood glucose and promoted recovery of pancreas function in type 2 diabetes rats. In curcumin-treated rats, the pancreatic tissue destruction and apoptosis index were reduced. The expression of IL-1, IL-6, TNF-, caspase-3, Bax, and malondialdehyde were significantly reduced, and Bcl-2, superoxide dismutase 2, and glutathione peroxidase were significantly increased. Curcumin inhibited the expression of phosphorylated JNK and NF-B proteins to block the RAGE/JNK/NF-B signaling pathway. In conclusion, these results indicate that curcumin blocks the phosphorylation of JNK and NF-B protein to inhibit this signaling pathway, thereby further inhibiting inflammation and apoptosis in pancreatic isletcells. Curcumin has potential value for the treatment of diabetes.