Recent Medline Research Extracts

[herbsandhelpers]

HPN, a synthetic analogue of bromophenol from red alga Rhodomela confervoides: synthesis and anti-diabetic effects in C57BL/KsJ-db/db mice. Shi D, Guo S, Jiang B, Guo C, Wang T, Zhang L, Li J. Mar Drugs. 2013 Jan 30;11(2):350-62. doi: 10.3390/md11020350. Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao 266071, PRC. shidayong@qdio.ac.cn 3,4-Dibromo-5-(2-bromo-3,4-dihydroxy-6-(isopropoxymethyl)benzyl)benzene-1,2-diol (HPN) is a synthetic analogue of 3,4-dibromo-5-(2-bromo-3,4-dihydroxy-6-(ethoxymethyl)benzyl)benzene-1,2-diol (BPN), which is isolated from marine red alga Rhodomela confervoides with potent protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B) inhibition (IC(50)=.84 μmol/L). The in vitro assay showed that HPN exhibited enhanced inhibitory activity against PTP1B with IC(50) 0.63 μmol/L and high selectivity against other PTPs (T cell protein tyrosine phosphatase (TCPTP), leucocyte antigen-related tyrosine phosphatase (LAR), Src homology 2-containing protein tyrosine phosphatase-1 (SHP-1) and SHP-2). The results of antihyperglycemic activity using db/db mouse model demonstrated that HPN significantly decreased plasma glucose (p<.01) after eight weeks treatment period. HPN lowered serum triglycerides and total cholesterol concentration in a dose-dependent manner. Besides, both of the high and medium dose groups of HPN remarkably decreased HbA1c levels (p<.05). HPN in the high dose group markedly lowered the insulin level compared to the model group (p<.05), whereas the effects were less potent than the positive drug rosiglitazone. Western blotting results showed that HPN decreased PTP1B levels in pancreatic tissue. Last but not least, the results of an intraperitoneal glucose tolerance test in Sprague-Dawley rats indicate that HPN have a similar antihyperglycemic activity as rosiglitazone.
CONCLUSION: HPN has potential for development in treating Type 2 diabetes. PMCID: PMC3640384 PMID: 23364683 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Huperzine A for Alzheimer's Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials. Yang G, Wang Y, Tian J, Liu JP. PLoS One. 2013 Sep 23;8(9):e74916. Centre for Evidence-based CM, Beijing Univ of CM, Beijing, PRC. BACKGROUND: Huperzine A is a Chinese herb extract used for Alzheimer's disease. We conducted this review to evaluate the beneficial and harmful effect of Huperzine A for treatment of Alzheimer's disease. METHODS: We searched for randomized clinical trials (RCTs) of Huperzine A for Alzheimer's disease in PubMed, Cochrane Library, and four major Chinese electronic databases from their inception to June 2013. We performed meta-analyses using RevMan 5.1 software. (Protocol ID: CRD42012003249). RESULTS: 20 RCTs including 1823 participants were included. The methodological quality of most included trials had a high risk of bias. Compared with placebo, Huperzine A showed a significant beneficial effect on the improvement of cognitive function as measured by Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) at 8 weeks, 12 weeks and 16 weeks, and by Hastgawa Dementia Scale (HDS) and Wechsler Memory Scale (WMS) at 8 weeks and 12 weeks. Activities of daily living favored Huperzine A as measured by Activities of Daily Living Scale (ADL) at 6 weeks, 12 weeks and 16 weeks. One trial found Huperzine A improved global clinical assessment as measured by Clinical Dementia Rating Scale (CDR). One trial demonstrated no significant change in cognitive function as measured by Alzheimer's disease Assessment Scale-Cognitive Subscale (ADAS-Cog) and activity of daily living as measured by Alzheimer's disease Cooperative Study Activities of Daily Living Inventory (ADCS-ADL) in Huperzine A group. Trials comparing Huperzine A with no treatment, psychotherapy and conventional medicine demonstrated similar findings. No trial evaluated QoL. No trial reported severe adverse events of Huperzine A.
CONCLUSIONS: Huperzine A appears to have beneficial effects on improvement of cognitive function, daily living activity, and global clinical assessment in participants with Alzheimer's disease. However, the findings should be interpreted with caution due to the poor methodological quality of the included trials. PMID: 24086396 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

Influence of Hippophae rhamnoides on two appetite factors, gastric emptying and metabolic parameters, in children with functional dyspepsia. Xiao M, Qiu X, Yue D, Cai Y, Mo Q. Hell J Nucl Med. 2013 Jan-Apr;16(1):38-43. doi: 10.1967/s002449910070. Epub 2013 Mar 26. Dept of Pediatrics, Liwan Hospital of Guangzhou Medical College NO. 35 Liwan Road, Liwan district, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510170, PRC. xiaomantian@126.com Our aim was to explore in children with functional dyspepsia the effect of Hippophae rhamnoides on the levels of plasma appetite factors and on their gastrointestinal motility. A hundred and twenty children with functional dyspepsia were randomly divided into three groups: Group I (treated with Hippophae rhamnoides), Group II (treated with domperidone), and Group III (treated with Hippophae rhamnoides plus domperidone). The treatment lasted for eight weeks. The levels of plasma leptin (LP) and neuropeptide Y (NPY) were measured before and after treatment. All patients underwent a gastric emptying (GE) test by ultrasound (US) to measure the rate of postprandial gastric antrum residual, at 30min, 60min, 90min and 120min. The average value of subcutaneous fat, body fat percentage, upper arm girth and body mass index (BMI) were also measured. To compare the US with the radionuclide GE test 14 healthy adults volunteers were tested by both GE techniques. We found that the levels of LP and NPY in plasma were markedly higher after treatment in Groups I and III than in Group II. The postprandial gastric antrum remains at 60min, 90min and 120min in Groups I and III fell greatly and the thickness of skin fold (SF), body fat percentage and arm girth increased (p<.05). The GE half emptying time of a mixed liquid-solid food measured by B US and by the radionuclide technique in the same individuals was similar (p>.05).
CONCLUSION: In children's functional dyspepsia, our study showed that Hippophae rhamnoides increases the levels of appetite factors, leptin and neuropeptide Y, increases gastric emptying and gastrointestinal digestive function, children's growth and development. PMID: 23529392 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Interaction between dietary factors and Helicobacter pylori infection in noncardia gastric cancer: a population-based case-control study in China. Wang XQ, Yan H, Terry PD, Wang JS, Cheng L, Wu WA, Hu SK. J Am Coll Nutr. 2012 Oct;31(5):375-84. Dept of Statistics and Epidemiology, School of Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong Univ, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, PRC. wangxiaoqin@mail.xjtu.edu.cn BACKGROUND: This study investigated the relationships among Helicobacter pylori, dietary factors, and the risk of noncardia gastric cancer in a hospital-based case-control study in China. METHODS: A case-control study of noncardia gastric cancer was performed at 3 hospitals in Xi'an, PRC, between September 2008 and July 2010. Participants were 257 men and women with histologically diagnosed primary noncardia gastric cancer and 514 sex- and age-matched (± 5 years) control subjects selected from the communities where the cases were living when diagnosed. A questionnaire was used to obtain information regarding potential risk factors, including diet, and blood samples were obtained to examine H pylori infection status. RESULTS: Positive H pylori status (odds ratio [OR], 3.2; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.8-5.9) and high consumption of pickled foods (OR, 27.1; 95%, 8.7-79.1) appeared to increase the risk of noncardia gastric cancer, whereas high consumption of vegetables (OR, 0.3; 95% CI, 0.1-0.89), fruits (OR, 0.2; 95% CI, 0.09-0.81), and soya products (OR, 0.04; 95% CI, 0.01-0.3) appeared to decrease the risk. Consumption of meat, cereals, tubers, eggs, oils, nuts, fish, fresh fruit, and red meat was not clearly associated with risk. Effect modification was observed, such that a relatively high consumption of fruit and vegetables appeared to attenuate the association of H pylori with risk of noncardia gastric cancer (p<.05).
CONCLUSIONS: Noncardia gastric cancer is highly preventable through dietary modifications. Given the prevalence of H pylori infection worldwide, information regarding potential interaction between H pylori and lifestyle factors in gastric cancer development, including the dietary factors examined in our study, may prove valuable in future efforts at prevention. PMID: 23529995 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Investigating the effect of aromatherapy in patients with renal colic. Ayan M, Tas U, Sogut E, Suren M, Gurbuzler L, Koyuncu F. J Altern Complement Med. 2013 Apr;19(4):329-33. doi: 10.1089/acm.2011.0941. Epub 2012 Oct 16. Dept of Emergency Medicine, Med Fac, Gaziosmanpasa Univ, Tokat, Turkey. ayan421975@windowslive.com AIM: The aim of the present study was to investigate the usefulness of Rose Essential Oil as a supplementary and adjunctive therapy for the relief of renal colic, specifically because Rose Essential Oil is soothing and can act as a muscle relaxant. MATERIALS: 80 patients diagnosed with renal colic in the emergency room were included in the study, with ages ranging from 19-64 years. Half of the patients (n=40) were treated with conventional therapy (diclofenac sodium, 75mg intramuscularly) plus placebo (physiological serum, 0.9% NaCl), while the other half (n=40) were given aromatherapy (Rose Essential Oil) in addition to conventional therapy. In each patient, the severity of pain was evaluated using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) (0 [no pain] to 10 [very severe pain]). FINDINGS: VAS values before therapy, and 10 and 30 minutes after therapy were 8.18±1.36, 5.60±2.02, and 3.75±2.08 for the conventional therapy plus placebo group, while for the conventional therapy plus aromatherapy group, the VAS values were 8.63±1.03, 4.25±1.72, and 1.08±1.07, respectively. There was no statistically significant difference between the starting VAS values of the two groups, but the VAS values 10 or 30 minutes after the initiation of therapy were statistically lower in the group that received conventional therapy plus aromatherapy.
CONCLUSION: Rose Essential Oil therapy in addition to conventional therapy effectively reduces renal colic pain. PMID: 23072267 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Is there a role for curcumin in the treatment of bipolar disorder? Brietzke E, Mansur RB, Zugman A, Carvalho AF, Macêdo DS, Cha DS, Abílio VC, McIntyre RS. Med Hypotheses. 2013 May;80(5):606-12. doi: 10.1016/j.mehy.2013.02.001. Epub 2013 Feb 26. Dept of Psychiatry, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil. Curcumin is a polyphenolic nonflavonoid compound extracted from the rhizome of turmeric (Curcuma longa), a plant commonly used in Indian and Chinese traditional medicine to treat rheumatism, cough, inflammation and wounds. Curcumin putative targets, known based on studies of diverse central nervous system disorders other than bipolar disorders (BD) include several proteins currently implicated in the pathophysiology of BD. These targets include, but are not limited to, transcription factors activated by environmental stressors and pro-inflammatory cytokines, protein kinases (PKA, PKC), enzymes, growth factors, inflammatory mediators, and anti-apoptotic proteins (Bcl-XL). Herein, we review previous studies on the anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties of curcumin and discuss its therapeutic potential in BD. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved. PMID: 23484676 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Levo-tetrahydropalmatine decreases ethanol drinking and antagonizes dopamine D2 receptor-mediated signaling in the mouse dorsal striatum. Kim T, Hinton DJ, Johng S, Wang JB, Choi DS. Behav Brain Res. 2013 May 1;244:58-65. doi: 10.1016/j.bbr.2013.01.028. Epub 2013 Jan 31. Dept of Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN 55905, USA. An herb derived compound, levo-tetrahydropalmatine (L-THP), attenuates self-administration of cocaine and opiates in rodents. Since L-THP mainly antagonizes dopamine D2 receptors (D2R) in the brain, it is likely to regulate other addictive behaviors as well. Here, we examined whether L-THP regulates ethanol drinking in C57BL/6J mice using a two-bottle choice drinking experiment. L-THP treated mice consumed less ethanol compared to vehicle-treated mice during the 15% ethanol drinking session while water consumption remained similar between each group. We then examined the molecular basis underlying the pharmacological effect of L-THP in mice. Our results indicated that a single injection of L-THP increased active phosphorylated forms of PKA, AKT and ERK in the caudate-putamen (CPu), but not in the nucleus accumbens (NAc), of alcohol naïve mice. Interestingly, we found that systematic treatment with L-THP for 4 consecutive days while mice were drinking 15% ethanol increased pPKA levels in the CPu, but not in the NAc. In contrast to the effect of acute L-THP treatment, no differences were detected for pAKT or pERK in either striatal regions. CONCLUSION: Reduction of ethanol drinking by L-THP treatment is possibly correlated with D2R-mediated PKA signaling in the CPu. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved. PMID: 23376703 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Narirutin fraction from citrus peels attenuates alcoholic liver disease in mice. Park HY, Ha SK, Eom H, Choi I. Food Chem Toxicol. 2013 May;55:637-44. doi: 10.1016/j.fct.2013.01.060. Epub 2013 Feb 13. Functional Materials Research Group, Korea Food Research Institute, Gyeonggi 463-746, Republic of Korea. This study aimed to demonstrate protective activities of the narirutin fraction from peels of Citrus unshiu against ethanol-induced hepatic damage through an animal study. Citrus narirutin fraction (CNF), contained 75% of narirutin, was obtained by an ultra-sonicated extraction and further purification. ICR mice were divided into four groups; normaldiet control, ethanol control (6.5g ethanol/kg), low-CNF (ethanol+150mg CNF/kg) and high-CNF (ethanol+300mg CNF/kg) groups. Consumption of alcohol for 8weeks induced severe liver damage with increases in prognostic indicators such as aspartate transaminase, alanine transaminase in serum whereas co-administration of CNF suppressed their increases. Excessive accumulations in liver TG and TC in ethanol control group were also suppressed by co-administration of CNF. Co-administration of CNF maintained SOD activity, GSH and malondialdehyde levels close to those of the normal diet group. Chronic consumption of alcohol also stimulated abrupt increases in pro-inflammatory cytokines such as nuclear factor (NF)-κB, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and interleukin (IL)-1β in liver otherwise co-administration of CNF effectively suppressed production of these cytokines dose-dependently.
CONCLUSION: Co-administration of CNF with alcohol can alleviate alcohol induced liver damage through preventing lipid formation, protecting antioxidant system and suppressing productions of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved. PMID: 23416143 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Oleanolic acid and ursolic acid: novel hepatitis C virus antivirals that inhibit NS5B activity. Kong L, Li S, Liao Q, Zhang Y, Sun R, Zhu X, Zhang Q, Wang J, Wu X, Fang X, Zhu Y. Antiviral Res. 2013 Apr;98(1):44-53. doi: 10.1016/j.antiviral.2013.02.003. Epub 2013 Feb 16. College of Bioscience and Engineering, Jiangxi Agricultural Univ, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330045, PRC. lingbaok@hotmail.com Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infects up to 170 million people worldwide and causes significant morbidity and mortality. Unfortunately, current therapy is only curative in approximately 50% of HCV patients and has adverse side effects, which warrants the need to develop novel and effective antivirals against HCV. We have previously reported that the Chinese herb Fructus Ligustri Lucidi (FLL) directly inhibited HCV NS5B RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) activity (Kong et al., 2007). In this study, we found that the FLL aqueous extract strongly suppressed HCV replication. Further high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis combined with inhibitory assays indicates that oleanolic acid and ursolic acid are two antiviral components within FLL aqueous extract that significantly suppressed the replication of HCV genotype 1b replicon and HCV genotype 2a JFH1 virus. Moreover, oleanolic acid and ursolic acid exhibited anti-HCV activity at least partly through suppressing HCV NS5B RdRp activity as noncompetitive inhibitors.
CONCLUSIONS: Our results show for the first time that oleanolic acid and ursolic acid could be used as potential HCV antivirals that can be applied to clinic trials either as monotherapy or in combination with other HCV antivirals. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved. PMID: 23422646 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Phytomedicines and nutraceuticals: alternative therapeutics for sickle cell anemia. Imaga NA. ScientificWorldJournal. 2013;2013:269659. doi: 10.1155/2013/269659. Epub 2013 Feb 14. Dept of Biochemistry, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Univ of Lagos, PMB 12003, Idi-Araba, Lagos, Nigeria. noaimaga@gmail.com Sickle cell anemia is a genetically inherited disease in which the "SS" individual possesses an abnormal beta globin gene. A single base substitution in the gene encoding the human β -globin subunit results in replacement of β 6 glutamic acid by valine, leading to the devastating clinical manifestations of sickle cell disease. This substitution causes drastic reduction in the solubility of sickle cell hemoglobin (HbS) when deoxygenated. Under these conditions, the HbS molecules polymerize to form long crystalline intracellular mass of fibers which are responsible for the deformation of the biconcave disc shaped erythrocyte into a sickle shape. First-line clinical management of sickle cell anemia include, use of hydroxyurea, folic acid, amino acids supplementation, penicillinprophylaxis, and antimalarial prophylaxis to manage the condition and blood transfusions to stabilize the patient's hemoglobin level. These are quite expensive and have attendant risk factors. However, research into antisickling properties of medicinal plants has been rewarding. This alternative therapy using phytomedicines has proven to not only reduce crisis but also reverse sickling (in vitro). The immense benefits of phytomedicines and nutraceuticals used in the management of sickle cell anemia are discussed in this paper. PMCID: PMC3586489 PMID: 23476125 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Potential effectiveness of TCM for cardiac syndrome X (CSX): a systematic review and meta-analysis. Wang JY, Xiao L, Chen J, Zhai JB, Mu W, Mao JY, Shang H. BMC Complement Altern Med. 2013 Mar 17;13:62. doi: 10.1186/1472-6882-13-62. Center of Evidence Based Medicine, Tianjin Univ of TCM, Anshan West Road, Tianjin 300193, PRC. BACKGROUND: Treatment of cardiac syndrome X with unknown pathological mechanism remains a big challenge for clinicians. Complementary and alternative medicine may bring a new choice for its management. The aim of this study is to evaluate the clinical effects of TCM on cardiac syndrome X patients. METHODS: We systematically searched databases such as Cochrane CENTRAL, PubMed, EMBASE, CBM, Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), WanFang and VIP, and handsearched relevant journals to identify randomized controlled trials. Following the steps of systematic review recommended by the Cochrane group, we assessed the quality of included studies, extracted valid data and undertook meta-analysis. RESULTS: 21 moderate-to low-quality randomized controlled trials involving 1143 patients were included. The results showed that TCM could improve angina [OR=1.34, 95% CI: 1.2 to 1.50], electrocardiogram (ECG), endothelin-1 (ET-1) levels, prolong exercise duration in treadmill tests, and reduce angina frequency per week compared with routine treatment. No other side effect was reported except two cases of stomach pain.
CONCLUSION: Compared with conventional treatment, TCM shows the potential of optimizing symptomatic outcomes and improving ECG and exercise duration. The efficacy of TCM may find explanation in its pharmacological activity of adjusting the endothelial function. TCM, as a kind of alternative and complementary medicine, may provide another choice for CSX patients. PMCID: PMC3662595 PMID: 23497135 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Protective action of ethanolic extract of Rosmarinus officinalis L. in gastric ulcer prevention induced by ethanol in rats. Amaral GP, de Carvalho NR, Barcelos RP, Dobrachinski F, Portella Rde L, da Silva MH, Lugokenski TH, Dias GR, da Luz SC, Boligon AA, Athayde ML, Villetti MA, Antunes Soares FA, Fachinetto R. Food Chem Toxicol. 2013 May;55:48-55. doi: 10.1016/j.fct.2012.12.038. Epub 2012 Dec 29. Dept de Química, Centro de Ciências Naturais e Exatas, Univ Federal de Santa Maria, Campus UFSM, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. Gastric ulcer pathology is complex and multifactorial. Gastric ulcer development is a result of the imbalance between aggressive and protective factors in the gastric mucosa. Here, we evaluated the ethanolic extract of Rosmarinus officinalis L. (eeRo); this plant, more commonly known as rosemary, has attracted the interest of the scientific community due to its numerous pharmacological properties and their potential therapeutic applications. Here, we tested the preventive effects of eeRo against gastric ulcer induced by 70% ethanol in male Wistar rats. In addition, we aimed to clarify the mechanism involved in the preventive action of the eeRo in gastric ulcers.
CONCLUSION: Based on the analysis of markers of oxidative damage and enzymatic antioxidant defense systems, the measurement of nitrite and nitrate levels and the assessment of the inflammatory response, the eeRo exhibited significant antioxidant, vasodilator and antiinflammatory properties. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved. PMID: 23279841 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of EPs-7630 in adults with COPD. Matthys H, Pliskevich DA, Bondarchuk OM, Malek FA, Tribanek M, Kieser M. Respir Med. 2013 May;107(5):691-701. doi: 10.1016/j.rmed.2013.02.011. Epub 2013 Mar 7. Dept of Pneumology, Univ Hospital Freiburg, Hugstetterstr. 55, 79106 Freiburg, Germany. hmatthys@t-online.de BACKGROUND: Preventing and managing exacerbations is one major component in COPD treatment. We investigated whether EPs-7630, a herbal drug preparation from the roots of Pelargonium sidoides, could prolong time to acute exacerbation in patients with COPD stage II/III. METHODS: In this randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial, patients were randomly allocated to oral 24-week add-on therapy with 3 × 30 drops/day EPs-7630 (n=99) or placebo (n=101) to a standardised baseline-treatment. Primary endpoint was time to first exacerbation of COPD. Secondary endpoints were number of exacerbations, consumption of antibiotics, QoL, patient satisfaction, inability to work, and tolerability. RESULTS: Median time to exacerbation was significantly prolonged with EPs-7630 compared to placebo (57 versus 43 days, Kaplan-Maier-estimate; p=.005, one-sided centre-stratified log-rank test). The superiority of EPs-7630 was also confirmed in secondary endpoints, e.g., fewer exacerbations, less patients with antibiotic use, improved QoL, higher patient satisfaction, and less days off work. The incidence of minor gastrointestinal adverse events was higher in the EPs-7630 group.
CONCLUSIONS: To treat moderate to severe COPD, add-on therapy with EPs-7630 gave a statistically significant and clinically relevant superiority over placebo and a good long-term tolerability. EPs-7630 prolonged time to exacerbations and reduced exacerbation frequency and antibiotic use. Trial Registration No.: ISRCTN01681733. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved. PMID: 23478193 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Sterculic oil, a natural inhibitor of SCD1, improves the metabolic state of obese OLETF rats. Ortinau LC, Nickelson KJ, Stromsdorfer KL, Naik CY, Pickering RT, Haynes RA, Fritsche KL, Perfield JW 2nd. Obesity (Silver Spring). 2013 Feb;21(2):344-52. doi: 10.1002/oby.20040. Dept of Food Science, Univ of Missouri-Columbia, Columbia, Missouri, USA. OBJECTIVE: Abnormal lipid metabolism and excess accumulation of lipid in non-adipose tissues are defining characteristics of obesity and its comorbidities. Expression and/or activity of stearoyl-CoA desaturase-1 (SCD1), a major regulator of lipid metabolism, is increased with obesity and the reduction/ablation of this enzyme is associated with an improved metabolic profile. Sterculic oil (SO), obtained from the seeds of the Sterculia feotida tree, contains a high concentration of cyclopropenoic fatty acids which are known inhibitors of SCD1. The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of SO supplementation on the development of obesity and insulin resistance in hyperphagic, obese Otsuka Long-Evans Tokushima Fatty (OLETF) rats. DESIGN & METHODS: Rats received either an AIN-93G diet (control) or an AIN-93G diet containing 0.5% SO for 10 weeks.
RESULTS: SO did not alter body weight or body composition. Importantly, the desaturase indices, a proxy for the activity of SCD1, were reduced in the liver and adipose tissue of SO supplemented animals. This reduction in SCD1 activity was associated with a reduction in fasting blood glucose concentrations and improved glucose tolerance. In addition, SO reduced intra-abdominal fat mass and adipocyte size and resulted in a ∼3-fold increase in GLUT1 gene expression in intra-abdominal fat. Liver triglyceride content and lipogenic gene expression were reduced by SO. Consistent with an improved metabolic phenotype, SO also improved plasma cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, and triglyceride concentrations.
CONCLUSION: Overall, our data demonstrate an improved metabolic phenotype with SO supplementation and suggest further studies are required to better understand the therapeutic potential of SO. Copyright © 2012 The Obesity Society. PMID: 23404766 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Tea Tree Oil (5%) body wash versus standard care (Johnson's Baby Softwash) to prevent colonization with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus in critically ill adults: a randomized controlled trial. Blackwood B, Thompson G, McMullan R, Stevenson M, Riley TV, Alderdice FA, Trinder TJ, Lavery GG, McAuley DF. J Antimicrob Chemother. 2013 May;68(5):1193-9. doi: 10.1093/jac/dks501. Epub 2013 Jan 7. Queen's Univ Belfast, Centre for Infection & Immunity, School of Medicine, Dentistry & Biomedical Sciences, Belfast, Northern Ireland. b.blackwood@qub.ac.uk OBJECTIVES: To determine whether the daily use of 5% Tea Tree Oil (TTO) body wash (Novabac 5% Skin Wash) compared with standard care [Johnson's Baby Softwash (JBS)] had a lower incidence of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) colonization.
PATIENTS: The study setting was two intensive care units (ICUs; mixed medical, surgical and trauma) in Northern Ireland between October 2007 and July 2009. The study population comprised 391 patients who were randomized to JBS or TTO body wash.
METHODS: This was a Phase 2/3, prospective, open-label, randomized, controlled trial. Trial registration: ISRCTN65190967. The primary outcome was new MRSA colonization during ICU stay. Secondary outcomes included the incidence of MRSA bacteraemia and maximum increase in sequential organ failure assessment score. RESULTS: A total of 445 patients were randomized to the study. After randomization, 54 patients were withdrawn; 30 because of a positive MRSA screen at study entry, 11 due to lack of consent, 11 were inappropriately randomized and 2 had adverse reactions. Thirty-nine (10%) patients developed new MRSA colonization (JBS n = 22, 11.2%; TTO body wash n = 17, 8.7%). The difference in percentage colonized (2.5%, 95% CI - 8.95 to 3.94; p=.50) was not significant. The mean maximum increase in sequential organ failure assessment score was not significant (JBS 1.44, SD 1.92; TTO body wash 1.28, SD 1.79; p=.85) and no study patients developed MRSA bacteraemia. CONCLUSIONS: Compared with Johnson's Baby Softwash, Tea Tree Oil body wash cannot be recommended as an effective means of reducing MRSA colonization. PMID: 23297395 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

The acetone extract of Sclerocarya birrea (Anacardiaceae) possesses antiproliferative and apoptotic potential against human breast cancer cell lines (MCF-7). Tanih NF, Ndip RN. ScientificWorldJournal. 2013;2013:956206. doi: 10.1155/2013/956206. Epub 2013 Mar 20. Dept of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Faculty of Science and Agriculture, Univ of Fort Hare, P/Bag X1314, Alice 5700, South Africa. Interesting antimicrobial data from the stem bark of Sclerocarya birrea, which support its use in traditional medicine for the treatment of many diseases, have been delineated. The current study was aimed to further study some pharmacological and toxicological properties of the plant to scientifically justify its use. Anticancer activity of water and acetone extracts of S. birrea was evaluated on three different cell lines, HT-29, HeLa, and MCF-7 using the cell titre blue viability assay in 96-well plates. Apoptosis was evaluated using the acridine orange and propidium iodide staining method, while morphological structure of treated cells was examined using SEM. The acetone extract exhibited remarkable antiproliferative activities on MCF-7 cell lines at dose- and time-dependent manners (24 h and 48 h of incubation). The extract also exerted apoptotic programmed cell death in MCF-7 cells with significant effect on the DNA. Morphological examination also displayed apoptotic characteristics in the treated cells, including clumping, condensation, and culminating to budding of the cells to produce membrane-bound fragmentation, as well as formation of apoptotic bodies. CONCLUSION: The acetone extract of S. birrea possesses antiproliferative and apoptotic potential against MCF-7-treated cells and could be further exploited as a potential lead in anticancer therapy. PMCID: PMC3616355 PMID: 23576913 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

The antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities of Aspidosperma tomentosum (Apocynaceae). Aquino AB, Cavalcante-Silva LH, Matta CB, Epifânio WA, Aquino PG, Santana AE, Alexandre-Moreira MS, de Araújo-Júnior JX. ScientificWorldJournal. 2013 May 28;2013:218627. doi: 10.1155/2013/218627. Print 2013. LaFI-Laboratório de Farmacologia e Imunidade, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas e da Saúde, Universidade Federal de Alagoas, Maceió, AL, Brazil. We investigated the antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities of the crude ethanolic extract (CEE), its fractions, and the flavonoid isorhamnetin from Aspidosperma tomentosum using models of nociception and inflammation in mice. In the writhing test, the CEE and its fractions (except for soluble phase, CHCl3 100% and EtAcO 100%) at 100 mg/kg p.o. induced antinociceptive activity. Isorhamnetin (100  μ mol/kg, p.o.) was also active. In the hot plate test, only the treatment with the fractions Hex : CHCl3 50%, CHCl3 100%, and CHCl3 : MeOH 5% (100 mg/kg, p.o.) increased the latency time, reversed by the opioid antagonist naloxone. Fractions that were active in the hot plate test did not show catalepsy condition. It was observed that CEE, all fractions, and isorhamnetin reduced the formalin effects in the neurogenic phase. In the inflammatory phase, only CEE, isorhamnetin, and CHCl3 100% and CHCl3 : MeOH 5% fractions were active. CEE and all fractions, except for CHCl3 : MeOH 10% fraction, isorhamnetin, and soluble fraction were able to produce an antioedematogenic activity in the ear capsaicin-induced edema test. In the thioglycolate-induced peritonitis, only EtAcO 100% fraction was not active.
CONCLUSION: A. tomentosum has antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities in animal models. PMCID: PMC3679822 PMID: 23781151 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

The biological and pharmacological activity of essential oils in the treatment and prevention of infectious diseases. Król SK, Skalicka-Woźniak K, Kandefer-Szerszeń M, Stepulak A. Postepy Hig Med Dosw (Online). 2013 Sep 22;67(0):1000-1007. Katedra i Zakład Biochemii i Biologii Molekularnej Uniwersytetu Medycznego w Lublinie. Despite the large progress in medicine and pharmacy in the last few decades, traditional treatment of bacterial or viral diseases is frequently ineffective and is connected with some side effects. Currently, there is observed an increasing interest in natural plant-derived substances as a potential and promising group of medicines in prevention and treatment of several infectious diseases. Terpenes and their derivatives are a large class of natural organic components of essential oils and are widespread in the plant kingdom. Numerous experimental studies have shown that essential oils exhibit a large spectrum of biological and pharmacological activities in vitro. Herbal essential oils have been proved to possess antimicrobial, antiviral, antifungal and antiparasitic properties. They have also been reported to exhibit anti-inflammatory and immunostimulatory activities. Based on the wide spectrum of various biological activities, essential oils and terpenes commonly found in fruit, vegetables, herbs etc. have been suggested to constitute a novel group of preventive and therapeutic agents. Further experiments are necessary to confirm their pharmacological effectiveness, to determine potential toxic effects and the mechanism of their activity in in vivo models. This article describes the biological and pharmacological properties of herbal essential oils and some of their components, and summarizes the future prospects of potential application of essential oils in the prevention and treatment of infectious human diseases. This review also presented possible mechanisms of their biological action. PMID: 24088544 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

The contributions of muscarinic receptors and changes in plasma aldosterone levels to the anti-hypertensive effect of Tulbaghia violacea. Raji I, Mugabo P, Obikeze K. BMC Complement Altern Med. 2013 Jan 11;13(1):13. doi: 10.1186/1472-6882-13-13. Med Fac, National Univ of Science and Technology, Ascot, Bulawayo, Zimbabwe. ismailaraji@gmail.com BACKGROUND: Tulbaghia violacea Harv. (Alliaceae) is used to treat various ailments, including hypertension (HTN) in South Africa. This study aims to evaluate the contributions of muscarinic receptors and changes in plasma aldosterone levels to its anti-hypertensive effect. METHODS: In the acute experiments, methanol leaf extracts (MLE) of T. violacea (30-120 mg/kg), muscarine (0.16 -10 μg/kg), and atropine (0.02 - 20.48 mg/kg), and/or the vehicle (dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) and normal saline (NS)) were respectively and randomly administered intravenously in a group of spontaneously hypertensive (SHR) weighing 300 to 350 g and aged less than 5 months. Subsequently, T. violacea (60 mg/kg) or muscarine (2.5 μg/kg) was infused into eight SHRs, 20 min after atropine (5.12 mg/kg) pre-treatment. In the chronic (21 days) experiments, the SHRs were randomly divided into three groups, and given the vehicle (0.2 ml/day of DMSO and NS), T. violacea (60 mg/kg/day) and captopril (10 mg/kg/day) respectively into the peritoneum, to investigate their effects on blood pressure (BP), heart rate (HR), and plasma aldosterone levels. Systolic BP and HR were measured using tail-cuff plethysmography during the intervention. BP and HR were measured via a pressure transducer connecting the femoral artery and the Powerlab at the end of each intervention in the acute experiment; and on day 22 in the chronic experiment. RESULTS: In the acute experiments, T. violacea, muscarine, and atropine significantly (p < 0.05) reduced BP dose-dependently. T. violacea and muscarine produced dose-dependent decreases in HR, while the effect of atropine on HR varied. After atropine pre-treatment, dose-dependent increases in BP and HR were observed with T. violacea; while the BP and HR effects of muscarine were nullified. In the chronic experiments, the T. violacea-treated and captropril-treated groups had signicantly lower levels of aldosterone in plasma when compared to vehicle-treated group. Compared to the vehicle-treated group, significant reduction in BP was only seen in the captopril-treated group; while no difference in HR was observed among the groups.
CONCLUSION: Stimulation of the muscarinic receptors and a reduction in plasma aldosterone levels contribute to the anti-hypertesive effect of T. violacea. PMCID: PMC3631126 PMID: 23311308 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Ultraperformance liquid chromatography-based metabonomic study of therapeutic effect of the surface layer of Poria cocos on adenine-induced chronic kidney disease provides new insight into anti-fibrosis mechanism. Zhao YY, Feng YL, Bai X, Tan XJ, Lin RC, Mei Q. PLoS One. 2013;8(3):e59617. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0059617. Epub 2013 Mar 26. Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China, Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Northwest Univ, Xi'an, Shaanxi, PR China. zyy@nwu.edu.cn The surface layer of Poria cocos (Fulingpi, FLP) is commonly used in TCM and its diuretic effect was confirmed in rats. Ultraperformance liquid chromatography/quadrupole time-of-flight high-sensitivity mass spectrometry and a novel mass spectrometry(Elevated Energy) data collection technique was employed to investigate metabonomic characteristics of chronic kidney disease (CKD) induced from adenine excess and the protective effects of FLP. Multiple metabolites are detected in the CKD and are correlated with progressive renal injury. Among these biomarkers, lysoPC(18∶0), tetracosahexaenoic acid, lysoPC(18∶2), creatinine, lysoPC (16∶0) and lysoPE(22∶0/0∶0) in the FLP-treated group were completely reversed to levels in the control group which lacked CKD. Combined with biochemistry and histopathology results, the changes in serum metabolites indicate that the perturbations of phospholipids metabolism, energy metabolism and amino acid metabolism are related to adenine-induced CKD and to the interventions of FLP on all the three metabolic pathways.
CONCLUSIONS: Fulingpi may regulate the metabolism of these biomarkers, especially their efficient utilization within the context of CKD. Furthermore, these biomarkers might serve as characteristics to explain the mechanisms of Fulingpi. PMCID: PMC3608665 PMID: 23555727 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

[Effects of Astragali Radix Extract on matrix metalloproteinase 9 expression and atherosclerotic plaque formation in aorta of apolipoprotein E deficient mice fed with high fat diet - Article in Chinese] You Y, Duan Y, Zhang XL, Kang J, Yan CH, Zhang XL, Feng JT, Han YL. Zhonghua Xin Xue Guan Bing Za Zhi. 2012 Jun;40(6):522-6. Intervention Center, Affiliated Hospital of Liaoning Univ of TCM, Shenyang 110032, PRC. OBJECTIVE: To explore the effects of Astragali Radix Extract (ARE) on the expressions of matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9) and the formation of atherosclerotic plaque in aortic atherosclerotic plaques of apolipoprotein E-deficient mice (ApoE-/-). METHODS: Male 8-week-old ApoE-/- mice fed with high fat diet were randomly divided into four groups (n=12 each): control group (saline 0.2 ml/d), atorvastatin group (atorvastatin 10mg×kg(-1)×d(-1)), low-dose ARE group (1.25 g×kg(-1)×d(-1)) and high-dose ARE group (5 g×kg(-1)×d(-1)). After 12 weeks, serum oxLDL was measured by the method of ELISA. The formation of atherosclerotic plaque was determined in HE and oil red O stained aortic slice. The expressions of macrophage and MMP-9 in the aortic plaque were detected by immune fluorescence and immunohistochemistry staining method. RESULTS: Similarly as atorvastatin, ARE significantly decreased the level of serum oxLDL in ApoE-/-1 mice in a dose-dependent manner. The level of oxLDL in the high-dose ARE group [(5.2±6.1)µg/ml] was significantly lower than that in the control group [(15.8±5.4)µg/ml, p<.01]. The area of atherosclerosis plaques was smaller (17.24%±4.22% vs. 49.87%±9.37%, p<.01) and the penetration degree of plaques in the arterial wall was relieved in the high-dose ARE group compared to those in the control group (p<.01). The expressions of Mac3 in atherosclerosis plaques of the high-dose ARE group was also significantly lower than in the control group (p<.01). The mean absorbance value of the expression of MMP-9 in the high-dose ARE group (0.0154±0.0014)was significantly lower than that in the control group (0.0263±0.0065) (p<.01).
CONCLUSIONS: Like atorvastatin, Astragali Radix Extract can dose-dependently inhibit the expression of MMP-9 and the formation of the atherosclerotic plaque in ApoE-/- mouse, probably by reducing the serum oxLDL, inhibiting macrophage infiltration, migration and secretion of MMP-9. PMID: 22943650 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

[Improvement of symptoms in mild hyperthyroidism with an extract of Lycopus europaeus (Thyreogutt® mono) - Article in German] Eiling R, Wieland V, Niestroj M. Wien Med Wochenschr. 2013 Feb;163(3-4):95-101. doi: 10.1007/s10354-012-0167-z. Epub 2012 Dec 18. Hausarztzentrum Bocholderstraße, Bocholder Str. 179, 45355 Essen, Deutschland. OBJECTIVE: Extracts of Lycopus europaeus are used clinically for the control of vegetative and irritative symptoms in mild hyperthyroidism. This study assessed the effects and safety of an extract of Lycopus europaeus (Thyreogutt® mono tablets or drops) in a general practice setting. METHODS: The study was conducted as an open post-marketing surveillance study consisting of three cohorts, i.e. a prolective assessment in patients receiving Thyreogutt® mono for 4 weeks, a retrolective documentation of data from patients who had received at least one course (4 weeks) of Thyreogutt® mono therapy during the previous 2 years, and a control cohort receiving no drug treatment. Assessments comprised symptoms of mild hyperthyroidism, laboratory tests of thyroid function and adverse events surveillance. Response was defined as normal thyroid hormone values at the end of therapy or a reduction of at least 20% in the number of symptoms after treatment. Responder rates were calculated. RESULTS: Four hundred and three patients with mild symptomatic hyperthyroidism were observed. The prolective assessment included 146 patients, the retrolective assessment 171 patients, and the control cohort 86 untreated patients. The responder rate was 72.6% in the prolective assessment and 96.5% in the retrolective assessment whereas the responder rate in the untreated control cohort amounted to 41.2%. No adverse events were reported.
CONCLUSIONS: Lycopus europaeus extract was well tolerated and associated with a statistically significant and clinically relevant improvement of the symptoms in mild hyperthyroidism. The improvement was markedly better in both Thyreogutt® mono cohorts than in the control cohort. PMID: 23247973 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

5-Methoxyleoligin, a lignan from Edelweiss, stimulates CYP26B1-dependent angiogenesis in vitro and induces arteriogenesis in infarcted rat hearts in vivo. Messner B, Kern J, Wiedemann D, Schwaiger S, Türkcan A, Ploner C, Trockenbacher A, Aumayr K, Bonaros N, Laufer G, Stuppner H, Untergasser G, Bernhard D. PLoS One. 2013;8(3):e58342. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0058342. Epub 2013 Mar 12. Cardiac Surgery Research Laboratory, Dept of Surgery, Medical Univ of Vienna, Vienna, Austria. BACKGROUND: Insufficient angiogenesis and arteriogenesis in cardiac tissue after myocardial infarction (MI) is a significant factor hampering the functional recovery of the heart. To overcome this problem we screened for compounds capable of stimulating angiogenesis, and herein investigate the most active molecule, 5-Methoxyleoligin (5ML), in detail. METHODS AND RESULTS: 5ML potently stimulated endothelial tube formation, angiogenic sprouting, and angiogenesis in a chicken chorioallantoic membrane assay. Further, microarray- and knock down- based analyses revealed that 5ML induces angiogenesis by upregulation of CYP26B1. In an in vivo rat MI model 5ML potently increased the number of arterioles in the peri-infarction and infarction area, reduced myocardial muscle loss, and led to a significant increase in LV function (plus 21% 28 days after MI).
CONCLUSION: The present study shows that 5ML induces CYP26B1-dependent angiogenesis in vitro, and arteriogenesis in vivo. Whether or not CYP26B1 is relevant for in vivo arteriogenesis is not clear yet. Importantly, 5ML-induced arteriogenesis in vivo makes the compound even more interesting for a post MI therapy. 5ML may constitute the first low molecular weight compound leading to an improvement of myocardial function after MI. PMCID: PMC3595277 PMID: 23554885 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

9-cis-rich β-carotene powder of the alga Dunaliella reduces the severity of chronic plaque psoriasis: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Greenberger S, Harats D, Salameh F, Lubish T, Harari A, Trau H, Shaish A. J Am Coll Nutr. 2012 Oct;31(5):320-6. Dept of Dermatology, Chaim Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Israel. shoshana.greenberger@sheba.health.gov.il
BACKGROUND: Synthetic retinoids are one of the mainstay treatments of psoriasis. However, their use is occasionally limited by adverse effects, especially mucocutaneous, hepatic, and lipid profile toxicity. Thus, a search for retinoid metabolites that are both safe and active is essential. The alga Dunaliella bardawil is a natural source of the retinoid precursor 9-cis β-carotene that has a good adverse effect profile.
OBJECTIVE: To test the effect of the alga Dunaliella bardawil on psoriasis. METHODS: 34 adults with mild, chronic, plaque-type psoriasis were included in this monocentric, prospective, randomized, double-blinded pilot study. Patients received either capsules of the alga D. bardawil or starch powder capsules, as the placebo, for 12 weeks. The response to treatment was evaluated by changes in Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) and Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) scores. Safety of the treatment was evaluated.
RESULTS: At the end of 6 weeks, the reduction in the mean PASI score was significantly higher in the Dunaliella group than in the placebo group (61.3% vs 34%, respectively, p=.002). The DLQI change did not reach significance (8.5% and 5.9% in the Dunaliella and in the control group, respectively, p=.9). We observed no significant change in the liver function tests or in the lipid profile.
CONCLUSIONS: 9-cis β-carotene, in the form of D. bardawil, is an effective and safe treatment for patients with mild, chronic, plaque-type psoriasis. A larger study is warranted. PMID: 23529989 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

A case report of adult lead toxicity following use of Ayurvedic herbal medication. Breeher L, Gerr F, Fuortes L. J Occup Med Toxicol. 2013 Oct 2;8(1):26. [Epub ahead of print]
INTRODUCTION: Ayurvedic medications consist of herbs that may be intentionally combined with metals, such as lead, mercury, iron, and zinc. Ayurvedic practitioners and their patients believe that the toxic properties of the metals are reduced or eliminated during preparation and processing.Case report: A 69 year old Caucasian male retired professional with a prior history of stroke presented for evaluation of new onset depression, fatigue, generalized weakness, constipation, anorexia, and weight loss. History revealed that his symptoms were temporally related to initiation of an Ayurvedic herbal medication. The patient had been previously admitted to another hospital for these symptoms and was found to have a severe anemia for which no etiology was found. Laboratory tests revealed an elevated blood lead level and a diagnosis of symptomatic lead toxicity was made. The patient was treated with intramuscular, intravenous, and oral chelation therapy to promote lead excretion. Because of complaints of continued poor mental function, neuropsychological tests were administered before and after one of the chelation treatments and showed improvement in measures of attention and other cognitive domains. In addition, the patient was able to discontinue use of antidepressant medication after chelation.
DISCUSSION: A high index of suspicion of metal toxicity is necessary among persons with characteristic symptoms and signs in the absence of occupational exposure. Despite limited evidence for chelation in adults and in those with modest blood lead levels, this patient appeared to benefit from repeated chelation therapy. Both allopathic and alternative medicine practitioners and public health specialists need to be aware of the potential for contamination of and side effects from alternative pharmacologic and herbal therapies. PMID: 24083830 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

A Chinese herbal formula, Yi-Qi-Fu-Sheng, inhibits migration/invasion of colorectal cancer by down-regulating MMP-2/9 via inhibiting the activation of ERK/MAPK signaling pathways. Deng W, Sui H, Wang Q, He N, Duan C, Han L, Li Q, Lu M, Lv S. BMC Complement Altern Med. 2013 Mar 18;13:65. doi: 10.1186/1472-6882-13-65. Oncology Dept I of Traditional Chinese Medical Hospital of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Xinjiang 830000, PRC. dengwanwan7723@sina.com
BACKGROUND: A Chinese herbal formula, Yi-Qi-Fu-Sheng (YQFS), has long been used clinically to treat cancer patients. We aimed to determine its effectiveness as a treatment method for colorectal cancer. We investigated the therapeutic effects of YQFS on colorectal cancer, as well as the underlying mechanisms, which have not previously been explored.
METHODS: First, YQFS was extracted and chemically characterized. We then tested the effects of YQFS on proliferation and migration by MTT and transwell migration assays in vitro. Mouse xenograft models of colorectal cancer were established by inoculation with HCT-116 cells, and mice received one of three oral doses (200, 400 and 800mg/kg/day) to evaluate the effects of YQFS extract. Metalloproteinase-2/9 (MMP-2/9) expression in mice was evaluated by gelatin zymography assay. Apoptosis was evaluated by flow cytometry (FCM) analysis in vitro and by TUNEL assay in vivo. ERK and p-ERK expression were evaluated by western blot analysis at the protein level in vitro, and by quantitative RT-PCR at mRNA level in vivo.
RESULTS: Our results show that YQFS significantly inhibits colorectal cancer cell proliferation and induces apoptosis and cell cycle arrest at the G1- and S-phase in HCT-116 cells. Furthermore, YQFS effectively retards tumor cell migration and invasion by inhibiting metalloproteinase-2/9 (MMP-2/9) expression, both in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, YQFS had an inhibitory effect on tumor growth in vivo, and induced apoptosis through the inhibition of the ERK1/2 pathway both in vitro and in vivo.
CONCLUSION: YQFS extract has an anti-tumor effect in colorectal cancer, which could be attributed to ERK1/2-dependent inhibition of MMP-2/9 expression. PMCID: PMC3617034 PMID: 23506655 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Adherence to Mediterranean-style dietary pattern and risk of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma: a case-control study in Iran. Jessri M, Rashidkhani B, Hajizadeh B, Jacques PF. J Am Coll Nutr. 2012 Oct;31(5):338-51. Human Nutrition Division, Dept of Agricultural, Food and Nutritional Sciences and Alberta Institute of Human Nutrition, Edmonton Clinic Health Academy, Univ of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.
OBJECTIVE: The benefit of adherence to a Mediterranean-style dietary pattern in relation to the risk of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) has not been investigated among non-Mediterranean high-risk populations. The objective of the present study was to examine the association of compliance with the Mediterranean dietary pattern as measured by Mediterranean-Style Dietary Pattern Score (MSDPS) and the risk of ESCC in Iranian population.
METHODS: This case-control study was conducted on 47 ESCC cases and 96 hospital controls aged 40-75 years. Participants were interviewed using validated questionnaires, and dietary patterns were characterized using the MSDPS.
RESULTS: Generally, the mean MSDPS in this population was low (30.84±8.58). MSDPS showed content validity through having expected positive associations with several lifestyle characteristics and dietary intakes. Being in the highest quartile category of MSDPS, compared to the lowest, was independently associated with 37% reduction in risk of ESCC. Two-unit and 3-unit increases in the MSDPS resulted in 41% and 47% reduction in risk of ESCC, respectively. Higher intakes of olive oil (odds ratio [OR]=.15, 95% CI: 0.01-0.49), fish and other seafood (OR=.48, 95% CI: 0.23-0.98), whole grain (OR=.57, 95% CI: 0.28-0.76), and fruits (OR=.77, 95% CI: 0.38-0.86) were significantly associated with reduced ESCC risk. In contrast, higher sweet (OR=1.86, 95% CI: 1.04-2.12) and meat intakes (OR=1.61, 95% CI: 1.25-2.49) were associated with higher ESCC risk.
CONCLUSION: Consuming a diet in concordance with the principles of the Mediterranean dietary pattern may protect against ESCC. Preventive strategies to be effective to reduce ESCC risk in high-risk countries should focus on overall dietary pattern and dietary habits. PMID: 23529991 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Antinocieptive and anti-inflammatory effects of Toddalia asiatica (L) Lam. (Rutaceae) root extract in Swiss albino mice. Kariuki HN, Kanui TI, Yenesew A, Patel N, Mbugua PM. Pan Afr Med J. 2013 Apr 6;14:133. doi: 10.11604/pamj.2013.14.133.2130. Print 2013. Univ of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya. INTRODUCTION: Toddalia asiatica is a commonly used medicinal plant in East Africa for the management of pain and inflammatory conditions. The present study investigated the antinociceptive and the anti-inflammatory effects of T. asiatica in Swiss albino mice.
METHODS: The antinociceptive and the anti-inflammatory effects of T. asiatica were investigated using formalin-induced pain test and the carrageenin-induced oedema paw. The extract solvent (vehicle), aspirin and indomethacin were employed as negative and positive controls respectively. Eight mice were used in each experiment.
RESULTS: In the early phase of the formalin test, the 100mg/kg dose showed no significant antinociceptive activity while the 200mg/kg showed significant (p<.01) antinociceptive activity. The 100mg/kg dose showed highly significant antinociceptive activity (p<.001) in the late phase of the formalin test while the 200mg/kg dose showed no significant antinociceptive activity. A reduction in carragenin induced acute inflammation paw oedema was significant (p<.01) following administration of 100mg/kg dose but not with the 200mg/kg dose.
CONCLUSION: The data support the anecdotal evidence for use of T. asiatica in the management of painful and inflammatory conditions. PMCID: PMC3670198 PMID: 23734278 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Antiosteoporotic activity of echinacoside in ovariectomized rats. Li F, Yang X, Yang Y, Guo C, Zhang C, Yang Z, Li P. Phytomedicine. 2013 Apr 15;20(6):549-57. doi: 10.1016/j.phymed.2013.01.001. Epub 2013 Feb 18. State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, PRC Pharmaceutical Univ, Nanjing 210009, PR China.
PURPOSE: Echinacoside (ECH), isolated from Cistanche tubulosa (Schrenk) R. Wight stems, has been reported to enhance bone regeneration in MC3T3-E1 cells in vitro. The objectives of this study were to investigate the antiosteoporotic effect of ECH on bone metabolism in the ovariectomized (OVX) rat model of osteoporosis in vivo.
METHODS: 56 female Sprague-Dawley rats aged 6 months were randomly assigned into sham-operated group (SHAM) and six OVX subgroups (n=8 each). The OVX rats were then subdivided into six groups treated with vehicle (OVX), Xian-ling-gu-bao (XLGB, 0.5 g/kg body weight/day, orally), 17β-estradiol (E2, 50μg/kg body weight/day, orally) or ECH (30, 90, and 270mg/kg body weight, daily, orally) for 12 weeks respectively. We evaluated the pharmacological effects of E2, XLGB and ECH against osteoporosis by evaluating the body weight, uterus wet weight, serum and urine biochemical parameters, bone mineral density (BMD), bone biomechanical properties, bone microarchitecture, bone histomorphology and uterus immunohistochemistry.
RESULTS: In OVX rats, the increases of body weight, serum hydroxyproline (HOP) levels, and the decreases of uterus wet weight and BMD were significantly reversed by ECH treatment. Moreover, three dosages of ECH completely corrected the increased urine concentration of calcium (Ca), inorganic phosphorus (P), and HOP observed in OVX rats. Furthermore, Micro-CT analysis results of distal femur showed that all ECH-treated groups notably enhanced bone quality compared to OVX group (p<.05). Consistent with this finding, total femur BMD and biomechanical strength of tibia were significantly improved (p<.05) after 12 weeks ECH administration. Histological results also showed the protective activity of ECH through promotion of bone formation and suppression of bone resorption. In addition, the ECH administration also significantly enhanced the expression of ER in the uteri according to immunohistochemical evaluation (p<.05). Those findings, based on the serum and urine biochemical, BMD, Micro-CT, biomechanical test, histopathological and immunohistochemical parameters, showed that ECH has a notable antiosteoporotic effect, similar to estrogen, especially effective for prevention osteoporosis induced by estrogen deficiency.
CONCLUSION: ECH, as a new class of phytoestrogen, has a remarkable antiosteoporotic activity, and may be a promising candidate for treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis induced by estrogen deficiency in a natural way through herbal resources. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier GmbH. All rights reserved. PMID: 23428402 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]