- 1. White tea extract induces apoptosis in non-small cell lung cancer cells: the role of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-{gamma} and 15-lipoxygenases.
Emerging preclinical data suggests that tea possess anticarcinogenic and antimutagenic properties. We therefore hypothesize that white tea extract (WTE) is capable of favorably modulating apoptosis, a mechanism associated with lung tumorigenesis. We examined the effects of physiologically relevant doses of WTE on the induction of apoptosis in non-small cell lung cancer cell lines A549 (adenocarcinoma) and H520 (squamous cell carcinoma) cells. We further characterized the molecular mechanisms responsible for WTE-induced apoptosis, including the induction of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma (PPAR-gamma) and the 15-lipoxygenase (15-LOX) signaling pathways. We found that WTE was effective in inducing apoptosis in both A549 and H520 cells, and inhibition of PPAR-gamma with GW9662 partially reversed WTE-induced apoptosis. We further show that WTE increased PPAR-gamma activation and mRNA expression, concomitantly increased 15(S)-hydroxy-eicosatetraenoic acid release, and upregulated 15-LOX-1 and 15-LOX-2 mRNA expression by A549 cells. Inhibition of 15-LOX with nordihydroguaiaretic acid (NGDA), as well as caffeic acid, abrogated WTE-induced PPAR-gamma activation and upregulation of PPAR-gamma mRNA expression in A549 cells. WTE also induced cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor 1A mRNA expression and activated caspase-3. Inhibition of caspase-3 abrogated WTE-induced apoptosis. Our findings indicate that WTE is capable of inducing apoptosis in non-small cell lung cancer cell lines. The induction of apoptosis seems to be mediated, in part, through the upregulation of the PPAR-gamma and 15-LOX signaling pathways, with enhanced activation of caspase-3. Our findings support the future investigation of WTE as an antineoplastic and chemopreventive agent for lung cancer....(more)
Mao JT, et al. Cancer Prev Res (Phila) 2010 Sep;3(9):1132-40.
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- 2. White Tea extract induces lipolytic activity and inhibits adipogenesis in human subcutaneous (pre)-adipocytes.
BACKGROUND:
The dramatic increase in obesity-related diseases emphasizes the need to elucidate the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying fat metabolism. To investigate how natural substances influence lipolysis and adipogenesis, we determined the effects of White Tea extract on cultured human subcutaneous preadipocytes and adipocytes.
METHODS:
For our in vitro studies we used a White Tea extract solution that contained polyphenols and methylxanthines. Utilizing cultured human preadipocytes we investigated White Tea extract solution-induced inhibition of triglyceride incorporation during adipogenesis and possible effects on cell viability. In vitro studies on human adipocytes were performed aiming to elucidate the efficacy of White Tea extract solution to stimulate lipolytic activity. To characterize White Tea extract solution-mediated effects on a molecular level, we analyzed gene expression of essential adipogenesis-related transcription factors by qRT-PCR and determined the expression of the transcription factor ADD1/SREBP-1c on the protein level utilizing immunofluorescence analysis.
RESULTS:
Our data show that incubation of preadipocytes with White Tea extract solution significantly decreased triglyceride incorporation during adipogenesis in a dose-dependent manner (n = 10) without affecting cell viability (n = 10). These effects were, at least in part, mediated by EGCG (n = 10, 50 μM). In addition, White Tea extract solution also stimulated lipolytic activity in adipocytes (n = 7). Differentiating preadipocytes cultivated in the presence of 0.5% White Tea extract solution showed a decrease in PPARγ, ADD1/SREBP-1c, C/EBPα and C/EBPδ mRNA levels. Moreover, the expression of the transcription factor ADD1/SREBP-1c was not only decreased on the mRNA but also on the protein level.
CONCLUSION:
White Tea extract is a natural source that effectively inhibits adipogenesis and stimulates lipolysis-activity. Therefore, it can be utilized to modulate different levels of the adipocyte life cycle....(more)
Söhle J, et al. Nutr Metab (Lond) 2009 May 1;6:20.
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- 3. Supplementation with a complex of active nutrients improved dermal and epidermal characteristics in skin equivalents generated from fibroblasts from young or aged donors.
Cultured skin equivalent (SE, Mimeskin) was generated by co-culturing skin fibroblasts and keratinocytes on a collagen-glycosaminoglycan-chitosan dermal substrate. In order to examine donor age effect, fibroblasts from 19- (young) or 49- (aged) year-old females were used. Culture medium was supplemented with nutrients complex containing soy extract, tomato extract, grape seed extract, white tea extract, sodium ascorbate, tocopherol acetate, zinc gluconate and BioMarine complex. Epidermal and dermal structure and composition were examined after 42 and 60 days of culture. In untreated samples, SE generated from young fibroblasts was superior to SE from aged fibroblasts in all characteristics. Those include number and regularity of keratinocyte layers, number of keratinocytes expressing proliferation marker Ki67, content of collagen type I, fibrillin-1, elastin, and SE lifespan. Effects of nutritional supplementation were observed in SE from both young and aged fibroblasts, however, those effects were more pronounced in SE from aged fibroblasts. In epidermis, the treatment increased number of keratinocyte layers and delayed epidermal senescence. The number of cells expressing Ki67 was nine folds higher than those of controls, and was similar to that of young cell SE. In dermis, the treatment increased mRNA synthesis of collagen I, fibrillin-1 and elastin. In conclusion, skin cell donor age had major important effect on formation of reconstructed SE. Imperfections in epidermal and dermal structure and composition as well as life span in SE from aged cells can be improved by supplementation with active nutrients....(more)
Lacroix S, et al. Biogerontology 2007 Apr;8(2):97-109.
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- 4. Herbs in dentistry.
Herbs have been used for centuries to prevent and control disease. Herbal extracts are effective because they interact with specific chemical receptors within the body and are in a pharmacodynamic sense, drugs themselves. By using herbal medicines, patients have averted the many side effects that generally come with traditional medicines, but this does not mean that side effects do not occur. Only knowledgeable practitioners can prescribe the right herb and its proper dosage. Herbal medicines had been considered in every culture, however, pharmaceutical companies overturned this type of thinking. Now, pharmaceuticals are called traditional and herbs are libeled as the 'alternative'. The biggest challenge and problem is lack of information about the effect of herbs in oral tissues, mechanism of effect, and side effects. Several popular conventional drugs on the market are derived from herbs. These include aspirin (from white willow bark), digitalis (from foxglove), and sudafed (modelled after a component in the plant ephedra). Herbal products can vary in their potency. Therefore, care must be taken in selecting herbs, even so, herbal medicines have dramatically fewer side effects and are safer to use than conventional medications. The herbs described in this article are Bloodroot, Caraway, Chamomile, Echinacea, Myrrh, Peppermint, Rosemary, Sage, Thyme, Aloe Vera, Propolis, and a summary of other herbs that are useful in dentistry. Herbs may be good alternatives to current treatments for oral health problems but it is clear that we need more research.
© 2011 FDI World Dental Federation....(more)
Taheri JB, et al. Int Dent J 2011 Dec;61(6):287-96.
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- 5. An evaluation of the effect of a topical product containing salicin on the visible signs of human skin aging.
BACKGROUND:
There are many different visible signs of skin aging. These include wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, lack of firmness, poor texture, enlarged pores, and dryness. While there are many topical agents that claim to deliver wide-spectrum anti-aging benefits, few target all of the signs of skin aging to the same extent. Salicin, an extract from white willow bark, has been researched as a potent anti-inflammatory agent when taken orally. Based on unpublished in-house comprehensive consumer clinical studies, it is believed salicin may have anti-aging capabilities when applied topically to human skin.
AIM:
This research evaluated the effect of a topical serum formulation containing salicin at 0.5% on the visible signs of skin aging.
MATERIALS AND METHODS:
This single-center study enrolled 30 female subjects, showing mild to moderate signs of aging, between the ages of 35 and 70 having Fitzpatrick skin types ranging between I and IV. Subjects used the study serum product containing 0.5% salicin on their face twice daily for 12 weeks. Ordinal grading on a nine-point scale (0 = none, 1-3 = mild, 4-6 = moderate, 7-9 = severe) of facial fine lines, molted pigmentation, uneven skin tone, tactile roughness, global firmness appearance, jaw-line contour, radiance, and overall appearance was performed by investigator at baseline, week 1, week 4, week 8, and week 12. Digital photography, ultrasound, cutometry, and corneometry measurements were also performed at each time point.
RESULTS:
Twenty-nine of 30 subjects successfully completed the study. No tolerability issues were reported. The clinical investigator found statistically significant improvements in wrinkles, tactile roughness, pore size, radiance, and overall appearance at week 1 time point (P ≤ 0.05) against baseline and statistically significant improvements in mottled pigmentation, global firmness, and jaw-line contour at week 4 time point (P ≤ 0.05) against baseline. Cutometry, corneometry, and ultrasound measurements showed significant improvements at week 12 time point (P ≤ 0.05) against baseline.
CONCLUSION:
Based on the findings from this study, it can be concluded that salicin has the ability to reduce the visible signs of skin aging when applied topically.
© 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc....(more)
Gopaul R, et al. J Cosmet Dermatol 2010 Sep;9(3):196-201.
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- 6. Dimeric procyanidins: screening for B1 to B8 and semisynthetic preparation of B3, B4, B6, And B8 from a polymeric procyanidin fraction of white willow bark (Salix alba).
Fifty-seven samples have been analyzed with regard to the occurrence of dimeric procyanidins B1-B8 as well as the composition of polymeric procyanidins. Fifty-two samples were found to contain polymeric procyanidins. In most of the samples, (-)-epicatechin was the predominant unit present. In white willow bark (Salix alba), however, large amounts of (+)-catechin (81.0%) were determined by means of phloroglucinolysis. White willow bark has therefore been used for the semisynthetic formation of dimeric procyanidins B3 [(+)-C-4alpha --> 8-(+)-C)], B4 [(+)-C-4alpha --> 8-(-)-EC)], B6 [(+)-C-4alpha --> 6-(+)-C)], and B8 [(+)-C-4alpha --> 6-(-)-EC)]. The reaction mixtures of the semisynthesis were successfully fractionated with high-speed countercurrent chromatography (HSCCC), and dimeric procyanidins B3, B4, B6, and B8 were obtained on a preparative scale....(more)
Esatbeyoglu T, et al. J Agric Food Chem 2010 Jul 14;58(13):7820-30.
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- 7. Herbal medicine for low back pain: a Cochrane review.
STUDY DESIGN:
A systematic review of randomized controlled trials.
OBJECTIVES:
To determine the effectiveness of herbal medicine compared with placebo, no intervention, or "standard/accepted/conventional treatments" for nonspecific low back pain.
SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA:
Low back pain is a common condition and a substantial economic burden in industrialized societies. A large proportion of patients with chronic low back pain use complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) and/or visit CAM practitioners. Several herbal medicines have been purported for use in low back pain.
METHODS:
The following databases were searched: Medline (1966 to April 2003), Embase (1980 to April 2003), Cochrane Controlled Trials Register (Issue 1, 2003), and Cochrane Complementary Medicine (CM) field Trials Register. Additionally, reference lists in review articles, guidelines, and in the retrieved trials were checked. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs), using adults (>18 years of age) suffering from acute, subacute, or chronic nonspecific low back pain. Types of interventions included herbal medicines defined as a plant that is used for medicinal purposes in any form. Primary outcome measures were pain and function. Two reviewers (J.J.G. and M.W.T.) conducted electronic searches in all databases. One reviewer (J.J.G.) contacted content experts and acquired relevant citations. Authors, title, subject headings, publication type, and abstract of the isolated studies were downloaded or a hard copy was retrieved. Methodologic quality and clinical relevance were assessed separately by two individuals (J.J.G. and M.W.T.). Disagreements were resolved by consensus.
RESULTS:
Ten trials were included in this review. Two high-quality trials utilizing Harpagophytum procumbens (Devil's claw) found strong evidence for short-term improvements in pain and rescue medication for daily doses standardized to 50 mg or 100 mg harpagoside with another high-quality trial demonstrating relative equivalence to 12.5 mg per day of rofecoxib. Two moderate-quality trials utilizing Salix alba (White willow bark) found moderate evidence for short-term improvements in pain and rescue medication for daily doses standardized to 120 mg or 240 mg salicin with an additional trial demonstrating relative equivalence to 12.5 mg per day of rofecoxib. Three low-quality trials using Capsicum frutescens (Cayenne) using various topical preparations found moderate evidence for favorable results against placebo and one trial found equivalence to a homeopathic ointment.
CONCLUSIONS:
Harpagophytum procumbens, Salix alba, and Capsicum frutescens seem to reduce pain more than placebo. Additional trials testing these herbal medicines against standard treatments will clarify their equivalence in terms of efficacy. The quality of reporting in these trials was generally poor; thus, trialists should refer to the CONSORT statement in reporting clinical trials of herbal medicines....(more)
Gagnier JJ, et al. Spine (Phila Pa 1976) 2007 Jan 1;32(1):82-92. Review. Erratum in: Spine. 2007 Aug 1;32(17):1931..
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- 8. Estrogen activities and the cellular effects of natural progesterone from wild yam extract in mcf-7 human breast cancer cells.
We studied the estrogenic activity and cellular effect of wild yam extract in MCF-7 human breast cancer cells. The extract increased the activity of the progesterone receptor and pS2 genes at the mRNA levels in human breast cancer MCF-7 cells, although the effects were not as prominent as those of 17beta-estradiol (E(2)). Western blot analysis showed that the level of estrogen receptor alpha protein was down-regulated after treatment with E(2) or wild yam extract. Wild yam extract also inhibited proliferation of MCF-7 cells. These data indicate that wild yam extract acts as a weak phytoestrogen and protects against proliferation in human breast carcinoma MCF-7 cells....(more)
Park MK, et al. Am J Chin Med 2009;37(1):159-67.
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- 9. [Study on the law of compatibility in three categorized formulas for tonifying Shen Yang: Shenqi pill, Yougui pill, and Yougui drink based on rough set].
OBJECTIVE:
To evaluate the efficacy of three categorized formulas for tonifying Shen yang, i.e. Shenqi Pill (SP), Yougui Pill (YP), and Yougui Drink (YD) based on rough set, thus exploring the law of compatibility between the core herbs and the edge herbs as well as the law of compatibility between the yang-tonifying herbs and the yin-tonifying herbs in the core herbs.
METHODS:
The rats were divided into the normal group, the Shen-yang deficiency model group, and the original prescription group, the core herbs group, and the edge herbs group of this three categorized formulas for tonifying Shen yang, 11 groups altogether. Thyroxine (T4), cortisol (CORT), and testosterone (T) were detected respectively. The decision rules model based on rough set was set up, the interactions between various herbs were analyzed according to the decision rules.
RESULTS:
There were synergies between yam and cinnamon, yam and aconite, as well as yam and wolfberry. Poria alisma, Cortex Moutan, and oriental waterplantain tuber had no effect themselves, but they had synergistic effects with the core herbs in SP. Angelica had a certain effect itself, but its functions were different to different core herbs in YP. Licorice had no effect itself, and it was antagonistic with the core herbs in YD.
CONCLUSIONS:
The compatibility of core herbs of categorized formula for tonifying Shen yang should focus on benefiting both yin and yang, as well as mutual rooting of yin-yang. Appropriate edge herbs should be chosen for compatibility according to different core herbs. The decision rules model based on rough set has a good prospect in exploring the law of compatibility of the categorized formulas....(more)
Wang XF, et al. Zhongguo Zhong Xi Yi Jie He Za Zhi 2013 Jan;33(1):114-8. Chinese.
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- 10. Dietary wolfberry upregulates carotenoid metabolic genes and enhances mitochondrial biogenesis in the retina of db/db diabetic mice.
SCOPE:
Our aim was to investigate whether dietary wolfberry altered carotenoid metabolic gene expression and enhanced mitochondrial biogenesis in the retina of diabetic mice.<br/>METHODS AND RESULTS:
Six-week-old male db/db and wild-type mice were fed the control or wolfberry diets for 8 weeks. At study termination, liver and retinal tissues were collected for analysis by transmission electron microscopy, real-time PCR, immunoprecipitation, Western blot, and HPLC. Wolfberry elevated zeaxanthin and lutein levels in the liver and retinal tissues and stimulated expression of retinal scavenger receptor class B type I, glutathione S-transferase Pi 1, and β,β-carotene 9',10'-oxygenase 2, and induced activation and nuclear enrichment of retinal AMP-activated protein kinase α2 (AMPK-α2). Furthermore, wolfberry attenuated hypoxia and mitochondrial stress as demonstrated by declined expression of hypoxia-inducible factor-1-α, vascular endothelial growth factor, and heat shock protein 60. Wolfberry enhanced retinal mitochondrial biogenesis in diabetic retinas as demonstrated by reversed mitochondrial dispersion in the retinal pigment epithelium, increased mitochondrial copy number, elevated citrate synthase activity, and upregulated expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ co-activator 1α, nuclear respiratory factor 1, and mitochondrial transcription factor A.
CONCLUSION:
Consumption of dietary wolfberry could be beneficial to retinoprotection through reversal of mitochondrial function in diabetic mice.
© 2013 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim....(more)
Yu H, et al. Mol Nutr Food Res 2013 Mar 15.
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- 11. Influences of traditional Chinese medicine intervention on the bone growth and metabolism of rats with simulated weightlessness.
OBJECTIVE:
To probe into the influences of Chinese herbal compound on the growth and metabolism of weight-bearing bones of tail-suspended rats.
METHODS:
Twenty-four male SD rats were randomly divided into blank control group (eight), tail-suspended control group (eight) and Chinese medicine treatment group (eight) according to their weights. No treatment was done for the blank control group. Double distilled water lavage was performed daily for the tail-suspended control group. On the basis of the tail-suspended rat model, the rats were given Chinese herbal compound lavage every day in Chinese medicine treatment group. This compound includes mulberry, Poria cocos and barbary wolfberry, etc. The test cycle was four weeks. The rats were killed after the experiment. The right femoral bone was taken out for the physical measurements, and the left femoral bone was for the three-point bending test. The influences of Chinese herbal compound on femoral bone growth and biomechanical properties of simulated weightlessness rats were observed.
RESULTS:
(1) After simulated weightlessness (tail-suspension), compared with the blank control group, all the physiological indexes of rat femoral bone decreased in tail-suspended group and Chinese medicine treatment group (P<0.05). The strength and rigidity of rat femoral bone decreased in tail-suspended group (P<0.01). The maximum load and rigidity coefficient also decreased with the increasing toughness coefficient in the control group (P<0.01). (2) After the countermeasure of Chinese herbal compound, each biomechanical indexes showed the tendency of increasing in Chinese medicine treatment group, and theses indexes were close to those of the blank control group (P<0.05), which indicated that the bone loss caused by simulated weightlessness was improved.
CONCLUSIONS:
Chinese herbal compound for tonifying kidney could effectively prevent the bone loss and have some enhancements on the bone biomechanical properties.
Copyright © 2013 Hainan Medical College. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved....(more)
Zhu J. Asian Pac J Trop Med 2013 Mar;6(3):224-7.
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- 12. Lifestyle modification, nutritional and vitamins supplements for age-related macular degeneration.
PURPOSE:
To provide a systematic review of the published studies pertaining to the lifestyle modification, dietary, nutritional and vitamins supplements for preventing occurrence or halting deterioration of age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
METHODS:
The literature searches from 1990 to December 2010 with following keywords, 'age related macular degeneration', 'nutrition', 'antioxidant', 'diet' and 'vitamins supplements' using search engines Pubmed, Google Scholar, Medline and the Cochrane Library. Meta-analyses, population-based cohort studies and case-controlled trials were reviewed, whereas small cases series, case reports, commentaries, abstracts in proceedings or personal observations were excluded.
RESULTS:
Smoking and obesity are identified risk factors for AMD. High dietary intakes of omega-3 fatty acids, and macular xanthophylls lutein and zeaxanthin have been associated with a lower risk of prevalence and incidence in AMD. Vitamin B and extracts from wolfberry, Gingko biloba and berry anthocyanins were also subjects of intense research interests, but there has been no concluding scientific evidence yet. The Age-Related Eye Disease study (AREDS) is the only large-scale randomized controlled clinical trial to show beneficial effect of AREDS formulation of vitamins C, E, beta-carotene and zinc with copper in reducing the risk progression to advanced AMD in patients with intermediate AMD or with advanced AMD in one eye.
CONCLUSION:
Quit smoking is an important advice to patients to prevent or slow the progress of AMD. There is no recommendation for routine nutritional or vitamins supplementation for primary prevention. However, patients with documented intermediate risk of AMD or advanced AMD in one eye are recommended to take AREDS-type vitamin supplements.
© 2012 The Authors. Acta Ophthalmologica © 2012 Acta Ophthalmologica Scandinavica Foundation....(more)
Sin HP, et al. Acta Ophthalmol 2013 Feb;91(1):6-11.
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- 13. Synaptic plasticity, but not hippocampal neurogenesis, mediated the counteractive effect of wolfberry on depression in rats(1).
Depression is a life-threatening psychiatric disorder characterized with a long-term hypercortisolemia in depressed patients. Based on this clinical feature, hypercortisolemia was mimicked in experimental animals to understand the neuropathogy of depression and to explore new therapeutic strategies. Wolfberry, also known as Lycium barbarum, is a type of common fruit produced in mainland China. Accumulated evidence has shown that the extracts from Lycium barbarum (LBP) had a wide range of neuroprotective effects in various neurogenerative models. However, the antidepressant effect of LBP on depression and its mechanism has not yet been explored. In the present study, we investigated the effects of LBP on counteracting depression using an animal model injected with moderate dose (40 mg/kg) or severe dose (50 mg/kg) of corticosterone (CORT) treatments for 14 days. The results showed that CORT significantly increased immobility time and decreased hippocampal cell proliferation. LBP treatment significantly decreased the immobility time in forced swimming test, a test for the intensity of depressive behaviors, both in 40 and 50 mg/kg CORT stressed rats. Moreover, LBP treatment restored the reduced proliferation of neuroprogentior cells in the hippocampus in 40 mg/kg CORT stressed rats and the neuronal differentiation but not the proliferation in 50 mg/kg CORT stressed rats. After ablation of adult neurogenesis with Ara-c infusion, the beneficial effect of LBP treatment in reducing immobility time was not affected in 40 and 50 mg/kg CORT stressed rats. Golgi staining and Western blotting detection showed that LBP treatment restored the reduced spine density and the decreased level of PSD-95 in the hippocampus caused by 40 and 50 mg/kg CORT, respectively, indicating enhanced synaptic plasticity in the hippocampus. The data showed a novel effect of LBP on reducing depression-like behavior and its antidepressant effect may be mediated by enhanced synaptic plasticity, but not hippocampal neurogenesis....(more)
Zhang E, et al. Cell Transplant 2012;21(12):2635-49.
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- 14. Anti-inflammatory effects of Lacto-Wolfberry in a mouse model of experimental colitis.
AIM:
To investigate the anti-inflammatory properties of Lacto-Wolfberry (LWB), both in vitro and using a mouse model of experimental colitis.
METHODS:
The effects of LWB on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) and interleukin (IL)-6 secretion were assessed in a murine macrophage cell line. in vitro assessment also included characterizing the effects of LWB on the activation of NF-E2 related 2 pathway and inhibition of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α)-induced nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) activation, utilizing reporter cell lines. Following the in vitro assessment, the anti-inflammatory efficacy of an oral intervention with LWB was tested in vivo using a preclinical model of intestinal inflammation. Multiple outcomes including body weight, intestinal histology, colonic cytokine levels and anti-oxidative measures were investigated.
RESULTS:
LWB reduced the LPS-mediated induction of ROS production [+LPS vs 1% LWB + LPS, 1590 ± 188.5 relative luminescence units (RLU) vs 389 ± 5.9 RLU, P < 0.001]. LWB was more effective than wolfberry alone in reducing LPS-induced IL-6 secretion in vitro (wolfberry vs 0.5% LWB, 15% ± 7.8% vs 64% ± 5%, P < 0.001). In addition, LWB increased reporter gene expression via the anti-oxidant response element activation (wolfberry vs LWB, 73% ± 6.9% vs 148% ± 28.3%, P < 0.001) and inhibited the TNF-α-induced activation of the NF-κB pathway (milk vs LWB, 10% ± 6.7% vs 35% ± 3.3%, P < 0.05). Furthermore, oral supplementation with LWB resulted in a reduction of macroscopic (-LWB vs +LWB, 5.39 ± 0.61 vs 3.66 ± 0.59, P = 0.0445) and histological scores (-LWB vs +LWB, 5.44 ± 0.32 vs 3.66 ± 0.59, P = 0.0087) in colitic mice. These effects were associated with a significant decrease in levels of inflammatory cytokines such as IL-1β (-LWB vs +LWB, 570 ± 245 μg/L vs 89 ± 38 μg/L, P = 0.0106), keratinocyte-derived chemokine/growth regulated protein-α (-LWB vs +LWB, 184 ± 49 μg/L vs 75 ± 20 μg/L, P = 0.0244), IL-6 (-LWB vs +LWB, 318 ± 99 μg/L vs 117 ± 18 μg/L, P = 0.0315) and other pro-inflammatory proteins such as cyclooxygenase-2 (-LWB vs +LWB, 0.95 ± 0.12 AU vs 0.36 ± 0.11 AU, P = 0.0036) and phosphorylated signal transducer and activator of transcription-3 (-LWB vs +LWB, 0.51 ± 0.15 AU vs 0.1 ± 0.04 AU, P = 0.057). Moreover, antioxidant biomarkers, including expression of gene encoding for the glutathione peroxidase, in the colon and the plasma anti-oxidant capacity were significantly increased by supplementation with LWB (-LWB vs +LWB, 1.2 ± 0.21 mmol/L vs 2.1 ± 0.19 mmol/L, P = 0.0095).
CONCLUSION:
These results demonstrate the anti-inflammatory properties of LWB and suggest that the underlying mechanism is at least in part due to NF-κB inhibition and improved anti-oxidative capacity....(more)
Philippe D, et al. World J Gastroenterol 2012 Oct 14;18(38):5351-9.
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- 15. Proteome analysis of the wild and YX-1 male sterile mutant anthers of wolfberry (Lycium barbarum L.).
Pollen development is disturbed in the early tetrad stage of the YX-1 male sterile mutant of wolfberry (Lycium barbarum L.). The present study aimed to identify differentially expressed anther proteins and to reveal their possible roles in pollen development and male sterility. To address this question, the proteomes of the wild-type (WT) and YX-1 mutant were compared. Approximately 1760 protein spots on two-dimensional differential gel electrophoresis (2D-DIGE) gels were detected. A number of proteins whose accumulation levels were altered in YX-1 compared with WT were identified by mass spectrometry and the NCBInr and Viridiplantae EST databases. Proteins down-regulated in YX-1 anthers include ascorbate peroxidase (APX), putative glutamine synthetase (GS), ATP synthase subunits, chalcone synthase (CHS), CHS-like, putative callose synthase catalytic subunit, cysteine protease, 5B protein, enoyl-ACP reductase, 14-3-3 protein and basic transcription factor 3 (BTF3). Meanwhile, activities of APX and GS, RNA expression levels of apx and atp synthase beta subunit were low in YX-1 anthers which correlated with the expression of male sterility. In addition, several carbohydrate metabolism-related and photosynthesis-related enzymes were also present at lower levels in the mutant anthers. In contrast, 26S proteasome regulatory subunits, cysteine protease inhibitor, putative S-phase Kinase association Protein 1(SKP1), and aspartic protease, were expressed at higher levels in YX-1 anthers relative to WT anthers. Regulation of wolfberry pollen development involves a complex network of differentially expressed genes. The present study lays the foundation for future investigations of gene function linked with wolfberry pollen development and male sterility....(more)
Zheng R, et al. PLoS One 2012;7(7):e41861.
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- 16. Dietary supplementation with lacto-wolfberry enhances the immune response and reduces pathogenesis to influenza infection in mice.
Despite the availability of vaccines, influenza is a considerable public health problem, which emphasizes the need for development of additional strategies to enhance host defense against influenza. Wolfberry, or goji berry, long used as a medicinal food in China, has recently been shown to improve immune response in mice. Because immune response plays a key role in the body's defense against pathogens, we hypothesized that wolfberry may increase host resistance to influenza infection by enhancing immune response. To test this hypothesis, we fed adult mice (4 mo old) a milk-based preparation of wolfberry called Lacto-Wolfberry (LWB) for 4 wk and then infected them with influenza A/Puerto Rico/8/34 (H1N1) while continuing the same experimental diets. Viral titer, lung pathology, and immune response were determined at different time points postinfection. LWB supplementation prevented infection-induced weight loss and reduced lung pathology on days 6 and 9 postinfection (P < 0.05). LWB-fed mice showed overall, significantly higher concanavalin A-induced IL-2 production (P < 0.05). Furthermore, we found positive correlations between weight loss and lung viral titer, pathology score, TNFα, and IL-6 production as well as negative correlations with T cell proliferation and IL-2 production (all P ≤ 0.05). These results indicate that LWB supplementation can attenuate symptoms and pathology of influenza infection by decreasing inflammatory cytokines in lungs while enhancing systemic T cell-mediated function as measured by their ability to produce IL-2....(more)
Ren Z, et al. J Nutr 2012 Aug;142(8):1596-602.
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- 17. Polysaccharides from wolfberry prevents corticosterone-induced inhibition of sexual behavior and increases neurogenesis.
Lycium barbarum, commonly known as wolfberry, has been used as a traditional Chinese medicine for the treatment of infertility and sexual dysfunction. However, there is still a scarcity of experimental evidence to support the pro-sexual effect of wolfberry. The aim of this study is to determine the effect of Lycium barbarum polysaccharides (LBP) on male sexual behavior of rats. Here we report that oral feeding of LBP for 21 days significantly improved the male copulatory performance including increase of copulatory efficiency, increase of ejaculation frequency and shortening of ejaculation latency. Furthermore, sexual inhibition caused by chronic corticosterone was prevented by LBP. Simultaneously, corticosterone suppressed neurogenesis in subventricular zone and hippocampus in adult rats, which could be reversed by LBP. The neurogenic effect of LBP was also shown in vitro. Significant correlation was found between neurogenesis and sexual performance, suggesting that the newborn neurons are associated with reproductive successfulness. Blocking neurogenesis in male rats abolished the pro-sexual effect of LBP. Taken together, these results demonstrate the pro-sexual effect of LBP on normal and sexually-inhibited rats, and LBP may modulate sexual behavior by regulating neurogenesis....(more)
Lau BW, et al. PLoS One 2012;7(4):e33374.
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- 18. Immunomodulatory effects of dietary supplementation with a milk-based wolfberry formulation in healthy elderly: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial.
Wolfberry (fruit of Lycium barbarum) has been prized for many years in China for its immunomodulatory property and its high specific antioxidant content. However, clear clinical evidence demonstrating the effect of wolfberry dietary supplementation is still lacking. After our earlier report showing that a proprietary milk-based wolfberry formulation (Lacto-Wolfberry) enhances in vivo antigen-specific adaptive immune responses in aged mice, the present study aimed at demonstrating the effect of dietary Lacto-Wolfberry supplementation on immune functions in the elderly, especially vaccine response known to decline with aging. A 3-month randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled study was conducted on 150 healthy community-dwelling Chinese elderly (65-70 years old) supplemented with Lacto-Wolfberry or placebo (13.7 grams/day). Immune response to influenza vaccine was assessed in the study, along with inflammatory and physical status. No serious adverse reactions were reported during the trial, neither symptoms of influenza-like infection. No changes in body weight and blood pressure, blood chemistry or cells composition, as well as autoantibodies levels were observed. The subjects receiving Lacto-Wolfberry had significantly higher postvaccination serum influenza-specific immunoglobulin G levels and seroconversion rate, between days 30 and 90, compared with the placebo group. The postvaccination positive rate was greater in the Lacto-Wolfberry group compared to the placebo group, but did not reach statistical significance. Lacto-Wolfberry supplementation had no significant effect on delayed-type hypersensitivity response and inflammatory markers. In conclusion, long-term dietary supplementation with Lacto-Wolfberry in elderly subjects enhances their capacity to respond to antigenic challenge without overaffecting their immune system, supporting a contribution to reinforcing immune defense in this population....(more)
Vidal K, et al. Rejuvenation Res 2012 Feb;15(1):89-97.
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- 19. Microscopic and UPLC-UV-MS analyses of authentic and commercial yohimbe (Pausinystalia johimbe) bark samples.
Yohimbine is the major alkaloid found in the stem bark of yohimbe, Pausinystalia johimbe (Rubiaceae), an evergreen tree native to Africa. The objectives of the current study were to provide a detailed anatomy of yohimbe bark, as well as to determine the quantity of yohimbine in the raw yohimbe products sold online. Twelve commercial raw materials of yohimbe were analyzed by microscopic and ultra performance liquid chromatography-UV-MS methods. The study revealed that three samples were probably adulterated and four other samples contained various levels of impurities. Yohimbine was not detected in one sample, whereas its presence in other samples was found to be in the range 0.1-0.91%. The present work also provides a detailed anatomy of the stem bark of yohimbe, with light and scanning electron microscopy images, for proper identification and authentication....(more)
Raman V, et al. J Nat Med 2013 Jan;67(1):42-50.
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- 20. Chromatographic fingerprint analysis of yohimbe bark and related dietary supplements using UHPLC/UV/MS.
A practical ultra high-performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) method was developed for fingerprint analysis of and determination of yohimbine in yohimbe barks and related dietary supplements. Good separation was achieved using a Waters Acquity BEH C(18) column with gradient elution using 0.1% (v/v) aqueous ammonium hydroxide and 0.1% ammonium hydroxide in methanol as the mobile phases. The study is the first reported chromatographic method that separates corynanthine from yohimbine in yohimbe bark extract. The chromatographic fingerprint analysis was applied to the analysis of 18 yohimbe commercial dietary supplement samples. Quantitation of yohimbine, the traditional method for analysis of yohimbe barks, were also performed to evaluate the results of the fingerprint analysis. Wide variability was observed in fingerprints and yohimbine content among yohimbe dietary supplement samples. For most of the dietary supplements, the yohimbine content was not consistent with the label claims.
Copyright © 2011. Published by Elsevier B.V....(more)
Sun J, et al. J Pharm Biomed Anal 2012 Mar 5;61:142-9.
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- 21. Chromium sorption and Cr(VI) reduction to Cr(III) by grape stalks and yohimbe bark.
In this work, two low cost sorbents, grape stalks and yohimbe bark wastes were used to remove Cr(VI) and Cr(III) from aqueous solutions. Batch experiments were designed to obtain Cr(VI) and Cr(III) sorption data. The mechanism of Cr(III) and Cr(VI) removal and Cr(VI) reduction to Cr(III) by the two vegetable wastes, has been investigated. Fourier transform infrared rays (FTIR) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analysis on solid phase were performed to determine the main functional groups that might be involved in metal uptake and to confirm the presence of Cr(III) on the sorbent, respectively. Results put into evidence that both sorbents are able to reduce Cr(VI) to its trivalent form....(more)
Fiol N, et al. Bioresour Technol 2008 Jul;99(11):5030-6.
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- 22. Non-Antidepressant Psychopharmacologic Treatment of Specific Phobias.
Specific phobias are among the most frequently diagnosed disorders in community with a twelve-month prevalence of 8.7% and a lifetime prevalence of 12.5%. Exposure-based therapies constitute the most effective treatment for this type of anxiety disorders. However, pharmacotherapies can still be considered for patients suffering from specific phobias in case they were non-adherent or resistant to exposure-based therapies or in case this kind of therapies was not accessible for them. Few data support the use of antidepressant in the treatment of specific phobias. A literature search via MedLine has been done in order to review all available studies in the domain of non-antidepressant pharmacotherapy of specific phobias. The importance of benzodiazepines such as diazepam, alprazolam and midazolam resides in the short-term reduction of subjective self-reported fear during the exposure to the feared object or situation. General anesthesia for the treatment of dental phobia does not seem to be efficient unless conducted with the inhalation anesthetic nitrous oxide which seems to be efficient on the short and on the long-term. Beta-adrenergic antagonists have been essayed with conflicting results. Cognitive enhancers such as D-cycloserine, glucocorticoids and yohimbine hydrochloride, seem to be more effective than placebo after a short term period of follow-up in treating specific phobia sympotms. In conclusion, promising efficient pharmacotherapies for specific phobias consists of drugs that enhance the efficacy of exposure-based therapies sessions by reducing anticipating phobia-related fear and/or by enhancing cognition during these sessions....(more)
Khalil RB. Curr Clin Pharmacol 2013 Feb 4.
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- 23. Synthesis of 2,4-dihydroxychalcone derivatives as potential antidepressant effect.
In this study, twelve 2,4-dihydroxychalcone derivatives were synthesized and evaluated for antidepressant activities using the forced swimming test (FST). The pharmacological test showed that 6 compounds significantly reduced the immobility times in the FST at a dose of 10 mg/kg, indicative of antidepressant activity. Among the derivatives, compounds designated 3d and 3 h exhibited the best antidepressant activity, with reduced immobility time by 32.05% and 34.33%, respectively. In the 5-hydroxytryptophan-induced head-twitch test and yohimbine-induced mortality test, compounds 3d and 3 h increased head-twitch and increased the mortality rate. The mechanisms of the antidepressant effects of compounds 3d and 3 h may be related with the 5-HTP and NE nervous system....(more)
Guan LP, et al. Drug Res (Stuttg) 2013 Jan;63(1):46-51.
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- 24. [Intraventricular yohimbine infusion induces noradrenergic changes in motor cerebral injured rats and enhances motor recovery].
INTRODUCTION:
It has been proposed that noradrenaline is one of the neurotransmitters involved in the functional recovery. In this sense, it has been proposed that the alpha-2 noradrenergic receptors play an important role in the functional reinstatement.
OBJECTIVE:
the aim of this work was to study the role of the alpha-2 noradrenergic receptors on the noradrenaline contents in cerebellum and pons of rats iron-injured in the motor cortex.
METHODS:
Fifteen male Wistar rats were allocated in three groups: control (n = 5) with intracortical infusion of saline (0.9%), injured (n = 5) with intracortical infusion of dextran iron and intraventricular infusion of saline, and injured + yohimbine (alpha-2 receptor antagonist; n = 5) that received an intracortical infusion of dextran iron and also an intraventricular infusion of yohimbine. Motor behavior was assessed by means of the beam-walking paradigm. Three days after surgeries, the animals were sacrificed and the left and right sides of the pons and the cerebellar hemispheres were extracted. Tissues were prepared for noradrenaline analysis by means of high performance liquid chromatography.
RESULTS:
We observed that the yohimbine-treated animals had a noradrenaline increase in the right side of the pons and a decrease in the right cerebellar hemisphere.
CONCLUSION:
It is concluded that the blockage of the alpha-2 receptors leads to an increase of noradrenaline in the locus coeruleus, which retards the effects of the cerebral injury....(more)
González-Piña R, et al. Cir Cir 2013 Jan-Feb;81(1):28-32. Spanish.
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- 25. Lateral reticular nucleus modulates the cardiosomatic reflex evoked by intrapericardial capsaicin in the rat.
The current study examined the role of the lateral reticular nucleus (LRN) in modulating the cardiosomatic reflex (CSR) induced by intrapericardial capsaicin in the anesthetized rat. Intrapericardial capsaicin was administered, and the CSR was monitored via electromyogram responses of the dorsal spinotrapezius muscle. Electrical stimulation of the LRN (10, 20 and 30 μA) depressed the CSR induced by intrapericardial capsaicin in an intensity-dependent manner. Microinjection of glutamate (4, 10, 20 and 40 nmol, in 0.2 μL) into the LRN replicated the effects of electrical stimulation. Furthermore, bilateral transections of the dorsolateral funiculus (DLF) decreased the LRN electrical stimulation-induced inhibition of the electromyogram responses. Intrathecal administration of the α2 -adrenergic receptor antagonist yohimbine or the serotonergic receptor antagonist methysergide significantly attenuated the LRN electrical stimulation-induced inhibition of the electromyogram responses. However, intrathecal application of the opioid receptor antagonist naloxone had no effect on the LRN electrical stimulation-induced inhibition. These results suggest that the LRN-DLF-spinal cord pathway is involved in descending inhibition of the CSR, and spinal α2 -adrenergic and serotonergic receptors participate in this descending inhibition....(more)
Han M, et al. Eur J Neurosci 2013 May;37(9):1511-8.
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- 26. Ethopharmacological analysis of the open elevated plus-maze in mice.
Exposure of rodents to an open elevated plus-maze (oEPM) elicits antinociception and increases plasma corticosterone levels. However, no studies have yet assessed the defensive behaviour repertoire of animals in this modified test. In Experiment 1, factor analysis was employed to characterise the behavioural profile of mice exposed to the oEPM. Experiments 2 and 3 assessed the effects of acute alprazolam (0.5-1.5mg/kg; diazepam 0.5-1.5mg/kg), pentylenetetrazole (10.0-30.0mg/kg), yohimbine (2.0-6.0mg/kg), mCPP (0.3-3.0mg/kg), and acute and chronic fluoxetine (10.0-30.0mg/kg) and imipramine (1.0-15.0mg/kg) on behaviours identified in Experiment 1. The factor analyses revealed that behaviour in the oEPM can largely (77% total variance) be accounted for in terms of 3 factors: factor 1 ('depth exploration'; e.g. head-dipping on the arms), factor 2 ('cautious exploration of arms'; e.g. flatback approach), and factor 3 ('risk assessment'; stretched attend postures - SAP). Experiments 2 and 3 showed that, over the dose range used, alprazolam selectively attenuated all measures of defensiveness. Similar, though more modest, effects were seen with diazepam. Confirming the intensity of the emotional response to the oEPM (nociceptive, endocrine and behavioural), relatively few significant behavioural changes were seen in response to the anxiogenic compounds tested. Although acute fluoxetine or imipramine treatment failed to modify behaviour in the oEPM, chronic fluoxetine (but not chronic imipramine) attenuated total flat back approach and increased head dipping outside the central square. Together, the results indicate that the oEPM induces behavioural defensive responses that are sensitive to alprazolam and chronic fluoxetine....(more)
Sorregotti T, et al. Behav Brain Res 2013 Jun 1;246:76-85.
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- 27. Rho-Kinase activity and cutaneous vasoconstriction is upregulated in essential hypertensive humans.
Essential hypertension (HT) is associated with endothelial dysfunction augmented vasoconstriction (VC) which may be secondary to increased Rho/Rho-Kinase (ROCK)-dependent mechanisms. Our aim was to assess the in vivo magnitude of cutaneous VC to local cooling as a ROCK specific stimulus, and in vitro evaluate ROCK activity in the skin from HT humans. Four microdialysis fibers were placed in the forearm of 9 pre- to stage I hypertensive (MAP: 106±3mm Hg) and 11 normotensive (NT; 86±1mm Hg) men and women: Ringers (control), 3mM fasudil (ROCK inhibited), 5mM yohimbine+1mM proprananol (α- and β-adrenoceptor inhibited; Y+P), Y+P+3mM fasudil (ROCK and adrenocepor inhibited). Skin blood flow was measured during local cooling (Tskl 24°C) and ROCK activity in the skin biopsy samples was determined with western blot. In vitro phosphorylated myosin phosphatase target subunit 1 (pMYPT-1)/ROCK was increased in the HT skin samples (p=0.0018). Functionally, no difference in basal vasomotor tone (Tskl 34°C) was observed between the groups (HT: 0.36±0.07 vs. NT: 0.31±0.07 CVC), nor at the control site during local cooling. Pre- to stage 1 hypertensives show greater ROCK-mediated vasoconstriction at early (1-5min; HT: -0.8±0.2 versus NT: -0.3±0.2 ΔCVC baseline 1; P<0.0001) and late (36-40min; HT: -0.9±0.1 versus NT: -0.5±0.2 ΔCVC baseline 1; P<0.0001) phases of local cooling. These data suggest that the magnitude of cutaneous vasoconstriction to local cooling does not differ in normotensive and pre- to stage I essential hypertensive humans; however, ROCK activity is increased and functional vasoconstriction is increasingly dependent upon Rho/ROCK mechanisms with essential hypertension....(more)
Smith CJ, et al. Microvasc Res 2013 May;87:58-64.
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- 28. α2-Adrenergic agonists including xylazine and dexmedetomidine inhibit norepinephrine transporter function in SK-N-SH cells.
α2-Adrenergic agonists simulate norepinephrine (NE) action on α2 receptors of sympathetic neurons to mediate feedback inhibition of NE release. These agents are used as valuable adjuncts for management of hypertension and for anesthesia. Their action, equivalent to NE on α2 adrenergic receptors, raises the question whether α2 agonists may also target NE transporters (NETs), another major control mechanism for noradrenergic neurotransmission. We thus investigated the effect of α2 agonists on transport of the NE analog, (131)I-metaiodobenzylguanidine (MIBG). Results from this investigation showed that xylazine and dexmedetomidine dose-dependently blocked [(3)H]nisoxetine binding in neuron-like SK-N-SH cells. Furthermore, the agents acutely suppressed cellular MIBG uptake in a dose-dependent manner. This effect was uninfluenced by the α2 antagonist yohimbine, but was completely reversed by drug removal. There was no change in membrane NET density by the agents. Moreover, saturation analysis showed that xylazine and dexmedetomidine significantly increased Km without affecting Vmax, indicating competitive inhibition of MIBG transport. Thus, the α2 adrenergic agonists xylazine and dexmedetomidine, acutely suppress NET function through competitive inhibition of substrate transport, likely by direct interaction on a region that over-laps with the nisoxetine binding site....(more)
Park JW, et al. Neurosci Lett 2013 Apr 29;541:184-9.
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- 29. Enhanced noradrenergic activity potentiates fear memory consolidation and reconsolidation by differentially recruiting α1- and β-adrenergic receptors.
Consolidation and reconsolidation are phases of memory stabilization that diverge slightly. Noradrenaline is known to influence both processes, but the relative contribution of α1- and β-adrenoceptors is unclear. The present study sought to investigate this matter by comparing their recruitment to consolidate and/or reconsolidate a contextual fear memory trace under enhanced noradrenergic activity induced by yohimbine. We report that this α2-adrenoceptor antagonist was able to potentiate fear memory trace consolidation or reconsolidation when administered immediately after acquisition or retrieval, respectively, resulting in increased freezing expression. In either case, generalization of this response to an unpaired context was also seen when it achieved a ceiling level in the paired context. These effects endured for over 7 d and relied on action at central rather than peripheral sites, but were prevented when a memory trace was not acquired, when memory reactivation was omitted, or when administration of yohimbine was delayed until 6 h after acquiring or retrieving the memory trace. The β-adrenoceptor antagonist propranolol was able to prevent the above-mentioned effects of yohimbine, while pretreatment with the α1-adrenoceptor antagonist prazosin blocked only its facilitating effects on memory reconsolidation. These results highlight a differential participation of α1- and β-adrenoceptors in fear memory processing. Moreover, it was shown that the α2-adrenoceptor agonist clonidine, as opposed to yohimbine, mitigates fear expression by weakening memory consolidation or reconsolidation....(more)
Gazarini L, et al. Learn Mem 2013 Mar 19;20(4):210-9.
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- 30. Mechanisms involved in the antinociceptive effects of orally administered oleanolic acid in the mouse.
The antinociceptive effects of oleanolic acid were examined in ICR mice. Oleanolic acid administered orally (1, 5 and 10 mg/kg) showed an antinociceptive effect in a dose-dependent manner as measured in the acetic acid-induced writhing test. In the time- course study, duration of antinociceptive action of oleanolic acid maintained at least for 60 min. In addition, the cumulative nociceptive response time for intraplantar formalin injection (2nd phase), intrathecal injection of substance P (0.7 μg) or glutamate (20 μg) was diminished by oleanolic acid. Intraperitoneal (i.p.) pretreatment with naloxone (opioid receptor antagonist) or methysergide (5-HT serotonergic receptor antagonist) attenuated antinociceptive effect induced by oleanolic acid in the writhing test. However, yohimbine (adrenergic receptor antagonist) did not affect antinociception induced by oleanolic acid. The results indicate that oleanolic acid shows an antinociceptive property in various pain models such as writhing, formalin, substance P and glutamate pain tests. Furthermore, this antinociceptive effect of oleanolic acid may be mediated by opioidergic and serotonergic receptors, but not adrenergic receptors....(more)
Park SH, et al. Arch Pharm Res 2013 Mar 21.
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- 31. Effect of phenylephrine on alveolar fluid clearance in ventilator-induced lung injury.
OBJECTIVE:
To investigate the effect of phenylephrine (an α-adrenergic agonist) on alveolar fluid clearance (AFC) in ventilator-induced lung injury and the possible mechanism involved.
METHODS:
A total of 170 male Wistar rats were randomly allocated into 17 groups (n=10) using random number tables. Short-term (40 minutes) mechanical ventilation with high tidal volume (HVT) was performed to induce lung injury, impair active Na+ transport and lung liquid clearance in the rats. Unventilated rats served as controls. To demonstrate the effect of phenylephrine on AFC, phenylephrine at different concentrations (1×10(-5), 1×10(-6), 1×10(-7), 1×10(-8), and 1×10(-9) mol/L) was injected into the alveolar space of the HVT ventilated rats. To identify the influence of adrenergic antagonists, Na(+) channel, and microtubular system on the effect of phenylephrine, phenylephrine at 1×10(-5) mol/L combined with prazosin (an α1-adrenergic antagonist, 1×10(-4) mol/L), yohimbine (an α2-adrenergic antagonist, 1×10(-4) mol/L), atenolol (a β1- adrenergic antagonist, 1×10(-5) mol/L), ICI-118551 (an β2-adrenergic antagonist, 1×10(-5) mol/L), amiloride (a Na+ channel blocker, 5×10(-4) mol/L), ouabain (a Na(+)/K(+)-ATPase blocker, 5×10(-4) mol/L), colchicine (a microtubular disrupting agent, 0.25 mg/100 g body weight), or β-lumicolchicine (an isomer of colchicine, 0.25 mg/100 g body weight) were perfused into the alveolar space of the rats ventilated with HVT for 40 minutes. AFC and total lung water content were measured.
RESULTS:
Basal AFC in control rats was (17.47±2.56)%/hour, which decreased to (9.64± 1.32)%/hour in HVT ventilated rats (P=0.003). The perfusion of phenylephrine at 1×10(-8), 1×10(-7), 1×10(-6), and 1×10(-5) mol/L significantly increased the AFC in HVT ventilated rats (all P<0.05). This effect of phenylephrine on AFC was suppressed by prazosin, atenolol, and ICI-118551 in HVT ventilated rats by 53%, 31%, and 37%, respectively (all P<0.05). The AFC-stimulating effect of phenylephrine was lowered by 33% and 42% with amiloride and ouabain, respectively (both P<0.05). Colchicine significantly inhibited the effect of phenylephrine (P=0.031).
CONCLUSION:
Phenylephrine could increase the AFC in HVT-ventilated rats and accelerate the absorption of pulmonary edema....(more)
Li NJ, et al. Chin Med Sci J 2013 Mar;28(1):1-6.
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- 32. Stimulation of the noradrenergic system during memory formation impairs extinction learning but not the disruption of reconsolidation.
The noradrenergic system plays a critical role in the 'consolidation' of emotional memory. If we are to target 'reconsolidation' in patients with anxiety disorders, the noradrenergic strengthening of fear memory should not impair the disruption of reconsolidation. In Experiment I, we addressed this issue using a differential fear conditioning procedure allowing selective reactivation of one of two fear associations. First, we strengthened fear memory by administering an α(2)-adrenergic receptor antagonist (ie, yohimbine HCl; double-blind placebo-controlled study) 30 min before acquisition (time for peak value yohimbine HCl <1 h). Next, the reconsolidation of one of the fear associations was manipulated by administering a β-adrenergic receptor antagonist (ie, propranolol HCl) 90 min before its selective reactivation (time for peak value propranolol HCl <2 h). In Experiment II, we administered propranolol HCl after reactivation of the memory to rule out a possible effect of the pharmacological manipulation on the memory retrieval itself. The excessive release of noradrenaline during memory formation not only delayed the process of extinction 48 h later, but also triggered broader fear generalization. Yet, the β-adrenergic receptor blocker during reconsolidation selectively 'neutralized' the fear-arousing aspects of the noradrenergic-strengthened memory and undermined the generalization of fear. We observed a similar reduction in fear responding when propranolol HCl was administered after reactivation of the memory. The present findings demonstrate the involvement of noradrenergic modulation in the formation as well as generalization of human fear memory. Given that the noradrenergic strengthening of fear memory impaired extinction learning but not the disruption of reconsolidation, our findings may have implications for the treatment of anxiety disorders....(more)
Soeter M, et al. Neuropsychopharmacology 2012 Apr;37(5):1204-15.
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- 33. Noradrenergic enhancement of associative fear memory in humans.
Ample evidence in animals and humans supports the noradrenergic modulation in the formation of emotional memory. However, in humans the effects of stress on emotional memory are traditionally investigated by declarative memory tests (e.g., recall, recognition) for non-associative emotional stimuli (e.g., stories, pictures). Given that anxiety disorders are thought to originate from associative learning processes and are characterized by distressing emotional responses, the existing literature seems to be inconclusive for the understanding of these disorders. Here, we tested whether noradrenaline strengthens the emotional expression of associative fear memory by using a differential fear conditioning procedure in humans. Stimulation of the noradrenergic system by the administration of yohimbine HCl (20mg) during memory formation did not directly augment the differential startle fear response 48 h later. Yet, the other retention tests uncovered that the administration of yohimbine HCl contrary to placebo pill extensively delayed the process of extinction learning and generated a superior recovery of fear (i.e., reinstatement and reacquisition). Conversely, the yohimbine HCl manipulation did not affect the skin conductance responding and the US expectancy ratings, emphasizing the concept of multiple memory systems. To our knowledge this is the first demonstration in humans that increased noradrenaline release during or shortly after a stressful event strengthens the formation of associative fear memory traces. The present findings suggest that noradrenaline may play an important role in the etiology and maintenance of anxiety disorders....(more)
Soeter M, et al. Neurobiol Learn Mem 2011 Sep;96(2):263-71.
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- 34. Effects of extracts of Humulus lupulus (hops) and Yucca schidigera applied alone or in combination with monensin on rumen fermentation and microbial populations in vitro.
BACKGROUND:
β-Acids in hops (Humulus lupulus) and saponins in yucca (Yucca schidigera) have been found to possess antimicrobial properties similar to that of monensin and could be an alternative to in-feed antibiotics. The effects of monensin (MON) and ethanol extracts of hops (HE) and Y. schidigera (YE) alone and in combination with MON were assessed on ruminal microbial composition and fermentation in vitro of a barley-based diet.
RESULTS:
All treatments decreased (P < 0.05) CH4 production (per unit of dry matter), microbial protein (mg), and NH3 -N accumulation. All treatments reduced (P < 0.01) the acetate:propionate (A:P) ratio and molar proportions of butyrate, but increased (P < 0.01) those of propionate, whereas those of acetate decreased (P < 0.001) with addition of MON (10 µg mL<sup>-1</sup> ) and combined with HE or YE. Methane produced per unit of true digested dry matter decreased (P < 0.001) with all treatments except YE. Monensin reduced (P < 0.001) proportions of 16S rRNA copies of Ruminococcus flavefaciens, but increased (P < 0.01) those of Selenomonas ruminantium. Hops extract alone or combined with MON reduced (P < 0.01) proportions of R. flavefaciens but combined with MON tended (P < 0.1) to increase those of S. ruminantium. Yucca extract combined with MON increased (P < 0.01) the proportions of R. flavefaciens and S. ruminantium. All treatments except MON (2.5 µg mL<sup>-1</sup> ) reduced (P < 0.01) the relative abundance of methanogens.
CONCLUSION:
Hops extract and YE altered rumen microbes and fermentation in a manner similar to MON with many responses being additive when applied in combination. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry.
© 2013 Society of Chemical Industry....(more)
Narvaez N, et al. J Sci Food Agric 2013 Jan 26.
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- 35. Effect of caprylic acid and Yucca schidigera extract on production performance, egg quality, blood characteristics, and excreta microflora in laying hens.
1. A total of 240 Hy-line brown laying hens (36-week-old), were used in this 8 week experiment to evaluate the effect of caprylic acid and Yucca schidigera extract (CY) on production performance, egg quality, blood characteristics, and excreta microflora. 2. Layers were divided into 5 dietary treatment groups which consisted of: (1) NC, basal diet; (2) PC, basal diet + 110 mg/kg of tylosin; (3) CY1, basal diet + 30 mg/kg caprylic acid + 30 mg/kg Yucca extract; (4) CY2, basal diet + 60 mg/kg caprylic acid + 60 mg/kg Yucca extract; (5) CY3, basal diet + 120 mg/kg caprylic acid + 120 mg/kg Yucca extract. The Yucca extract contained 12·5% saponins. 3. Egg production was unaffected, whereas egg weights and feed efficiency were linearly improved by the addition of CY. There were no differences in the egg quality parameters throughout the experimental period. Plasma total triglyceride and cholesterol concentration in plasma and egg yolk were decreased as utilisation of CY increased. The Escherichia coli counts were linearly inhibited by the CY treatments when compared with the NC treatment at both the 5 and 8 week stages. No difference was observed on the Lactobacillus population through the whole experimental period. 4. In conclusion, the addition of 120 mg/kg caprylic acid and 120 mg/kg Yucca extract exerted positive effects on egg weight and feed efficiency, decreased the serum and yolk cholesterol concentration and reduced the proliferation of Escherichia coli....(more)
Wang JP, et al. Br Poult Sci 2011 Dec;52(6):711-7.
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