Herbal Science Research - antioxidant

Biotransformation of Green Tea Polyphenols and the Biological Activities of Those Metabolites.

Site Editor — Fri, 02 Nov 2007 06:23:16 -0700

Biotransformation of Green Tea Polyphenols and the Biological Activities of Those Metabolites.: Mol Pharm. 2007 Oct 27; Authors: Lambert JD, Sang S, Yang CS

Green tea ( Camellia sinensis, Theaceae) and its major polyphenol constituents, the catechins, have been reported to have many health benefits including the prevention of cancer and heart disease. Many mechanisms of action have been proposed based on in vitro models; however, the importance of most of these mechanisms remains to be determined in vivo. The bioavailability and biotransformation of tea catechins play a key role in determining the importance of various mechanisms in vivo. Likewise, the biological activity and bioavailability of tea catechin metabolites, an understudied area, are important in understanding the potential beneficial effects of tea. In this article, we review the data available on the biotransformation of the tea catechins and the limited data set available on the biological activities of the catechin metabolites. Careful interpretation of available data, carefully designed animal experiments, and integration of bioavailability and biological activity data are needed if the disease preventive activity of tea is to be understood. We hope this article will spark research efforts on some of the important questions regarding tea polyphenol bioavailability, biotransformation, and the biological activities of tea catechin metabolites.

PMID: 17963356 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

Phytodolor--effects and efficacy of a herbal medicine.

Site Editor — Sun, 21 Oct 2007 05:50:54 -0700

Phytodolor--effects and efficacy of a herbal medicine.: Wien Med Wochenschr. 2007;157(13-14):343-7 Authors: Gundermann KJ, Müller J

Herbal antirheumatics are successfully used in painful inflammatory or degenerative rheumatic diseases. One of these herbal medicines is Phytodolor (STW 1), a fixed combination of extracts from aspen leaves and bark (Populus tremula), common ash bark (Fraxinus excelsior), and golden rod herb (Solidago virgaurea). Its effects as well as those of its components have been verified in experimental and human pharmacological investigations. The mode of action of STW 1 includes antiinflammatory, antioedematous, antioxidative and analgesic properties, and it is considered to be broader than that of synthetic antirheumatics. Open clinical studies and randomised, placebo- or verum-controlled double-blind trials, performed in different subtypes of rheumatic diseases, confirm the pharmacological evidence of efficacy, such as by reducing the intake of non-steroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). STW 1 has a high drug safety. CONCLUSION: Phytodolor (STW 1) is a reasonable alternative to NSAIDs and to cyclooxygenase(COX)-2-inhibitors such as rofecoxib.

PMID: 17704984 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Use of herbal preparations in the treatment of oxidant-mediated inflammatory disorders.

Site Editor — Sun, 21 Oct 2007 05:41:39 -0700

Use of herbal preparations in the treatment of oxidant-mediated inflammatory disorders.: Complement Ther Med. 2007 Sep;15(3):207-16 Authors: Kaplan M, Mutlu EA, Benson M, Fields JZ, Banan A, Keshavarzian A

Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) use has increased in popularity in recent years and herbal therapy alone is now a billion dollar market. For centuries herbs have been used as food and for medicinal purposes. Various herbs have been identified as possessing anti-inflammatory and antioxidative properties, and they are currently being used to treat inflammatory disorders as well as those caused by reactive oxygen species (ROS). Asthma, Alzheimer's disease, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and atherogenesis are all disorders where inflammation and ROS are involved in their pathogenesis. This review examines the pathogenesis of the above mentioned ROS-mediated inflammatory disorders, as well as discusses the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanisms of various herbs and the clinical trials where herbs have been used to treat these disorders.

PMID: 17709066 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

A randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind clinical trial of curcuminoids in oral lichen planus.

Site Editor — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 19:01:00 -0700

A randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind clinical trial of curcuminoids in oral lichen planus.: Phytomedicine. 2007 Aug;14(7-8):437-46 Authors: Chainani-Wu N, Silverman S, Reingold A, Bostrom A, Mc Culloch C, Lozada-Nur F, Weintraub J

We studied the efficacy of curcuminoids in the treatment of oral lichen planus (OLP), a chronic, mucocutaneous, immunological disease. Curcuminoids are components of turmeric (Curcuma longa) that have anti-inflammatory activity. Turmeric has been used in Ayurveda (Indian traditional medicine) for centuries. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was conducted. In all, 100 consecutive, eligible patients with OLP presenting to the oral medicine clinic at the University of California, San Francisco, were to be selected. Two interim analyses were to be conducted during the trial. The trial was conducted between February 2003 and September 2004. The first interim analysis was conducted in October 2004 using data from the first 33 subjects. Study subjects were randomized to receive either placebo or curcuminoids at 2000 mg/day for 7 weeks. In addition, all subjects received prednisone at 60 mg/day for the first 1 week. The primary outcome was a change in symptoms from baseline. Secondary outcomes were changes in clinical signs and occurrence of side effects. The first interim analysis did not show a significant difference between the placebo and curcuminoids groups. Conditional power calculations suggested a less than 2% chance that the curcuminoids group would have a significantly better outcome as compared with the placebo group if the trial were continued to completion. Therefore, the study was ended early for futility. Reaching a conclusion regarding the efficacy of curcuminoids based on the results of this study is not possible as it was ended early for futility. Curcuminoids at this dose were well tolerated and the results suggest that for future studies a larger sample size, a higher dose and/or longer duration of curcuminoids administration should be considered; however, for the next step, an RCT of a shorter duration, using a higher dose of curcuminoids, and without an initial course of prednisone, should be considered.

PMID: 17604143 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

[...] oleuropein [...] proteasome stimulatory properties in vitro and confers life span extension of human embryonic fibroblasts

Site Editor — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 18:58:06 -0700

The olive constituent oleuropein exhibits proteasome stimulatory properties in vitro and confers life span extension of human embryonic fibroblasts.: Rejuvenation Res. 2007 Jun;10(2):157-72 Authors: Katsiki M, Chondrogianni N, Chinou I, Rivett AJ, Gonos ES

Normal human fibroblasts undergo replicative senescence due to both genetic and environmental factors. Senescence and aging can be further accelerated by exposure of cells to a variety of oxidative agents that contribute among other effects to the accumulation of damaged proteins. The proteasome, a multicatalytic nonlysosomal protease, has impaired function during aging, while its increased expression delays senescence in human fibroblasts. The aim of this study was to identify natural compounds that enhance proteasome activity and exhibit antiaging properties. We demonstrate that oleuropein, the major constituent of Olea europea leaf extract, olive oil and olives, enhances the proteasome activities in vitro stronger than other known chemical activators, possibly through conformational changes of the proteasome. Moreover, continuous treatment of early passage human embryonic fibroblasts with oleuropein decreases the intracellular levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), reduces the amount of oxidized proteins through increased proteasome-mediated degradation rates and retains proteasome function during replicative senescence. Importantly, oleuropein-treated cultures exhibit a delay in the appearance of senescence morphology and their life span is extended by approximately 15%. In summary, these data demonstrate the beneficial effect of oleuropein on human fibroblasts undergoing replicative senescence and provide new insights towards enhancement of cellular antioxidant mechanisms by natural compounds that can be easily up-taken through normal diet.

PMID: 17518699 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Human hair growth enhancement in vitro by green tea epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG).

Site Editor — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 18:49:37 -0700

Human hair growth enhancement in vitro by green tea epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG).: Phytomedicine. 2007 Aug;14(7-8):551-5 Authors: Kwon OS, Han JH, Yoo HG, Chung JH, Cho KH, Eun HC, Kim KH

Green tea is a popular worldwide beverage, and its potential beneficial effects such as anti-cancer and anti-oxidant properties are believed to be mediated by epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), a major constituent of polyphenols. Recently, it was reported that EGCG might be useful in the prevention or treatment of androgenetic alopecia by selectively inhibiting 5alpha-reductase activity. However, no report has been issued to date on the effect of EGCG on human hair growth. This study was undertaken to measure the effect of EGCG on hair growth in vitro and to investigate its effect on human dermal papilla cells (DPCs) in vivo and in vitro. EGCG promoted hair growth in hair follicles ex vivo culture and the proliferation of cultured DPCs. The growth stimulation of DPCs by EGCG in vitro may be mediated through the upregulations of phosphorylated Erk and Akt and by an increase in the ratio of Bcl-2/Bax ratio. Similar results were also obtained in in vivo dermal papillae of human scalps. Thus, we suggest that EGCG stimulates human hair growth through these dual proliferative and anti-apoptotic effects on DPCs.

PMID: 17092697 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Anti-stress, anti-HIV and vitamin C-synergized radical scavenging activity of mulberry juice fractions.

Site Editor — Fri, 13 Jul 2007 17:52:17 -0700

Anti-stress, anti-HIV and vitamin C-synergized radical scavenging activity of mulberry juice fractions.: In Vivo. 2007 May-Jun;21(3):499-505 Authors: Sakagami H, Asano K, Satoh K, Takahashi K, Kobayashi M, Koga N, Takahashi H, Tachikawa R, Tashiro T, Hasegawa A, Kurihara K, Ikarashi T, Kanamoto T, Terakubo S, Nakashima H, Watanabe S, Nakamura W

Anti-stress and anti-HIV activity of mulberry juice were separated by centrifugation. The anti-stress activity was enriched in the supernatant fraction whereas the anti-HIV activity in the precipitate fraction. Oral administration of the supernatant fraction significantly reduced the elevated plasma level of lipid peroxide in mice loaded with water immersion restraint stress. The kinetic study revealed that the anti-stress activity was maintained for 4 hours after cessation of the administration of mulberry juice. The lignin fraction in the precipitate fraction scavenged superoxide and hydroxyl radicals more efficiently than other fractions, in a synergistic fashion with sodium ascorbate. Anti-HIV activity of mulberry juice was concentrated in the lignin fraction, whereas blueberry juice, which has no precipitating fibrous materials, did not show anti-HIV activity. The present study suggests the functionality of mulberry juice as an alternative medicine.

PMID: 17591360 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Antioxidant activity relates to plant part, life form and growing condition in some diabetes remedies.

Site Editor — Wed, 30 May 2007 01:16:24 -0700

Antioxidant activity relates to plant part, life form and growing condition in some diabetes remedies.: J Ethnopharmacol. 2007 Apr 24; Authors: McCune LM, Johns T

Selection, collection and preparation of 35 plant species used by traditional healers in the boreal regions of Canada for treatment of the symptoms of diabetes were supported empirically by antioxidant activity of the plants. Because antioxidants fluctuate with growth parameters and environmental factors, these remedies were evaluated in relation to the affect of plant part, life form and growing condition on the level of activity. The parts used here more frequently as medicines were roots and bark. Activity (IC(50)) of the bark extracts used medicinally averaged to 21.38+/-3.84ppm while root extracts used medicinally had an IC(50) of 185.11+/-32.18ppm in a free radical DPPH assay. In contrast the analysis of extracts of overall parts (medicinal or not) in these species found leaves and bark to have the least activity (112.22+/-30.63ppm and 123.02+/-21.13ppm, respectively). The highest activity was found in tree extracts (24.88+/-3.32ppm) as compared to herbs and shrubs, and increased activity was found in plant extracts from growing conditions of decreased water/fertility. The antioxidant activity of these traditional plant remedies have the potential to be partially deduced through environment signals interpreted by the traditional herbalist.

Mitochondrial oxidant signalling in Alzheimer's disease.

Site Editor — Wed, 30 May 2007 01:08:33 -0700

Mitochondrial oxidant signalling in Alzheimer's disease.: J Alzheimers Dis. 2007 May;11(2):175-81 Authors: Viña J, Lloret A, Vallés SL, Borrás C, Badía MC, Pallardó FV, Sastre J, Alonso MD

The role of free radicals in Alzheimer disease pathophysiology has been appreciated for a long time. Originally, radicals were considered as causative of oxidative damage. More recently their role as signalling molecules in this, as well as in other fields of free radical biology, has been underscored. Mitochondria are both generators and targets of radical damage in aging. In this paper we review evidence that radicals generated in mitochondria in the presence of Abeta are signals that trigger both the mitochondrial and the extra-mitochondrial pathways of apoptosis. There are gender specific differences in mitochondrial Abeta toxicity: mitochondria from young (but not from old) females appear to be protected. 17-beta Estradiol or phytoestrogens like genistein prevent the formation of oxidants by mitochondria and protect against mitochondrial Abeta toxicity. Experiments reported here indicate that phytoestrogens might have a role in the prevention of Alzheimer's disease.

Inhibition of cancer cell proliferation and suppression of TNF-induced activation of NFkappaB by edible berry juice.

Site Editor — Fri, 25 May 2007 02:31:01 -0700

Inhibition of cancer cell proliferation and suppression of TNF-induced activation of NFkappaB by edible berry juice.: Anticancer Res. 2007 Mar-Apr;27(2):937-48 Authors: Boivin D, Blanchette M, Barrette S, Moghrabi A, Béliveau R

BACKGROUND: Berries contain several phytochemicals, such as phenolic acids, proanthocyanidins, anthocyanins and other flavonoids. There has been growing interest in a variety of potential chemopreventive activities of edible berries. The potential chemopreventive activity of a variety of small berries cultivated or collected in the province of Québec, Canada were evaluated here. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Strawberry, raspberry, black currant, red currant, white currant, gooseberry, high-bush blueberry, low-bush blueberry, velvet leaf blueberry, serviceberry, blackberry, black chokeberry, sea buckthorn and cranberry were evaluated for antioxidant capacity, anti-proliferative activity, anti-inflammatory activity, induction of apoptosis and cell cycle arrest. RESULTS: The growth of various cancer cell lines, including those of stomach, prostate, intestine and breast, was strongly inhibited by raspberry, black currant, white currant, gooseberry, velvet leaf blueberry, low-bush blueberry, sea buckthorn and cranberry juice, but not (or only slightly) by strawberry, high-bush blueberry, serviceberry, red currant, or blackberry juice. No correlation was found between the anti-proliferative activity of berry juices and their antioxidant capacity (p > 0.05). The inhibition of cancer cell proliferation by berry juices did not involve caspase-dependent apoptosis, but appeared to involve cell-cycle arrest, as evidenced by down-regulation of the expression of cdk4, cdk6, cyclin D1 and cyclin D3. Of the 13 berries tested, juice of 6 significantly inhibited the TNF-induced activation of COX-2 expression and activation of the nuclear transcription factor NFkappaB. CONCLUSION: These results illustrate that berry juices have striking differences in their potential chemopreventive activity and that the inclusion of a variety of berries in the diet might be useful for preventing the development of tumors.

Antioxidant capacity of 55 medicinal herbs traditionally used to treat the urinary system: a comparison...

Site Editor — Wed, 21 Feb 2007 17:59:06 -0800

Antioxidant capacity of 55 medicinal herbs traditionally used to treat the urinary system: a comparison using a sequential three-solvent extraction process.: J Altern Complement Med. 2007 Jan;13(1):103-10 Authors: Wojcikowski K, Stevenson L, Leach D, Wohlmuth H, Gobe G

Background: The prevalence of chronic renal disease exceeds 10% in industrialized societies. Oxidative damage is thought to be one of the main mechanisms involved in nearly all chronic renal pathologies. Objective: We aimed to use the oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) method and a sequential multisolvent extraction process to compare the in vitro antioxidant capacity of 55 medicinal herbs and prioritize them for in vivo studies investigating the value of herbal therapies in the treatment of renal disorders. Methods: The herbs were chosen on the basis of their traditional use in kidney or urinary system disorders, or because they have attracted the attention of recent investigations into renal pathologies. The three solvents used for extraction were ethyl acetate, methanol, and 50% aqueous methanol. Silybum marianum (milk thistle) seed and Camellia sinensis (tea) leaf, both known to possess high antioxidant capacity, were included for comparison. Results: Twelve of the 55 herbs were comparable to or exceeded ORAC levels of milk thistle seed or tea leaf. The highest radical-scavenging activity was found in Olea europaea (olive leaf), Cimicifuga racemosa (black cohosh), Rheum palmatum (rhubarb), Glycyrrhiza glabra (licorice), and Scutellaria lateriflora (Virginia skullcap). Conclusions: The antioxidant capacity of many of the herbs studied may, at least in part, be responsible for their reputation as being protective of organs of the urinary system. Overall, the combined ORAC values for the methanol and aqueous methanol extracts comprised 84% of the total ORAC value. Sequential extraction with solvents of different polarities may be necessary to fully extract the antioxidant principles from medicinal plants.

Ginkgo biloba-an appraisal.

Site Editor — Fri, 19 Jan 2007 18:34:50 -0800

Ginkgo biloba-an appraisal.: Kathmandu Univ Med J (KUMJ). 2004 Jul-Sep;2(3):225-9 Authors: Dubey AK, Shankar PR, Upadhyaya D, Deshpande VY

Ginkgo biloba has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for about 5000 years. A standardized preparation, EGb 761 has been recently prepared. The pharmacologically active constituents, flavonol glycosides and the terpene lactones are standardized. The terpene lactones comprise of ginkgolides A, B, C and bilobalides. The extract scavenges excess free radicals and pretreatment with EGb 761 reduces damage by free radicals in patients undergoing coronary bypass surgery. The action of platelet activating factor is antagonized and platelet aggregation is reduced. Blood flow is increased. Release of prostacyclines and nitric oxide was shown to be stimulated. Ginkgo biloba has been found to be useful in the treatment of Alzheimers disease and cognitive impairment. EGB 761 has shown beneficial effect in aging and mild cognitive impairment. Bilobalide has been shown to be protective against glutamate-induced excitotoxic neuronal death. Early studies indicate a potential role in age-related macular degeneration and some types of glaucoma. Anticancer action is related to antioxidant, anti-angiogenic and gene regulatory actions. Ginkgo biloba has shown overall improvement in about 65% of patients with cerebral impairment and a similar percentage suffering from peripheral vascular diseases. A recent study suggested that phytoestrogens in Ginkgo biloba may have a role as alternative hormone replacement therapy. Recent trials have not shown a beneficial effect of Ginkgo biloba in tinnitus and acute mountain sickness. Ginkgo biloba increased the bioavailability of diltiazem. The extract has been shown to protect against doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity and gentamicin-induced nephrotoxicity in animals. Ginkgo biloba inhibits microsomal enzymes and has a potential for drug interactions. Further studies to establish the efficacy of Ginkgo biloba are required.

Protective effects of echinacoside on carbon tetrachloride-induced hepatotoxicity in rats.

Site Editor — Wed, 17 Jan 2007 06:36:52 -0800

Protective effects of echinacoside on carbon tetrachloride-induced hepatotoxicity in rats.: Toxicology. 2006 Dec 23; Authors: Wu Y, Li L, Wen T, Li YQ

The aim of this study was to investigate the possible protective effects of echinacoside, one of the phenylethanoids isolated from the stems of Cistanches salsa, a Chinese herbal medicine, on the free radical damage of liver caused by carbon tetrachloride in rats. Treatment of rats with carbon tetrachloride produced severe liver injury, as demonstrated by dramatic elevation of serum ALT, AST levels and typical histopathological changes including hepatocyte necrosis or apoptosis, haemorrhage, fatty degeneration, etc. In addition, carbon tetrachloride administration caused oxidative stress in rats, as evidenced by increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and MDA concentrations in the liver of rats, along with a remarkable reduction in hepatic SOD activity and GSH content. However, simultaneous treatment with echinacoside (50mg/kg, intraperitoneally) significantly attenuated carbon tetrachloride-induced hepatotoxicity. The results showed that serum ALT, AST levels and hepatic MDA content as well as ROS production were reduced dramatically, and hepatic SOD activity and GSH content were restored remarkably by echinacoside administration, as compared to the carbon tetrachloride-treated rats. Moreover, the histopathological damage of liver and the number of apoptotic hepatocytes were also significantly ameliorated by echinacoside treatment. It is therefore suggested that echinacoside can provide a definite protective effect against acute hepatic injury caused by CCl(4) in rats, which may mainly be associated with its antioxidative effect.

Antioxidative and neuroprotective activities of extracts from the fruit hull of mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana Linn.).

Site Editor — Wed, 17 Jan 2007 06:23:02 -0800

Antioxidative and neuroprotective activities of extracts from the fruit hull of mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana Linn.).: Med Princ Pract. 2006;15(4):281-7 Authors: Weecharangsan W, Opanasopit P, Sukma M, Ngawhirunpat T, Sotanaphun U, Siripong P

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to investigate the antioxidative and neuroprotective activities of various extracts from the fruit hull of mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana Linn., GM). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Four extracts: water, 50% ethanol, 95% ethanol and ethyl acetate, were used. The antioxidative activity was evaluated using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl free-radical scavenging assay at extract concentrations of 1, 10, 50 and 100 microg/ml. Based on the free radical scavenging activity of the extracts, two (water and 50% ethanol) were selected for their protective activity in NG108-15 neuroblastoma cells against H(2)O(2)-induced oxidative stress and for cell viability using 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay. RESULTS: All extracts exhibited antioxidative activity. The water and 50% ethanol extracts showed high free-radical scavenging activity with IC(50) values of 34.98 +/- 2.24 and 30.76 +/- 1.66 microg/ml, respectively. Both water and 50% ethanol extracts exhibited neuroprotective activity on NG108-15 cells. The highest activity was observed at the concentration of 50 microg/ml for both the water and 50% ethanol extracts. For cytotoxicity test, none of the extracts was toxic to the cells except at the high concentration of 100 microg/ml. CONCLUSIONS: These results suggest that the water and 50% ethanol extracts from the fruit hull of GM may be potent neuroprotectants.

Mangosteen for the Cancer Patient: Facts and Myths

Site Editor — Tue, 09 Jan 2007 06:22:58 -0800

Mangosteen for the Cancer Patient: Facts and Myths. J Soc Integr Oncol 2006;4(3):130–134 Author: Yeung Simon

ABSTRACT: Mangosteen is a tropical fruit native to Southeast Asia. It is consumed both as food and medicine. Data from in vitro and animal studies revealed that it has antioxidant, antiinflammatory, and antiproliferative effects against cancer cells. Xanthones, the major components of mangosteen fruit, have been implicated in such effects. It is yet to be studied in humans. However, despite lack of clinical evidence, mangosteen products are marketed to cancer patients as dietary supplements. Cancer patients should use caution before consuming mangosteen products as they can potentially interact with cancer treatments and also affect blood sugar levels.

[Pharmacological effects of flavonoids from Scutellaria baicalensis]

Site Editor — Tue, 09 Jan 2007 06:08:15 -0800

[Pharmacological effects of flavonoids from Scutellaria baicalensis]: Przegl Lek. 2006;63(2):95-6 Authors: Kowalczyk E, Krzesiński P, Kura M, Niedworok J, Kowalski J, Błaszczyk J

Scutellaria baicalensis is a plant widely used in Chinese and Japanese herbal medicine. Dry roots of Scutellaria baicalensis are used, especially as alcohol extracts. Flavonoids isolated from Radix Scutellariae have beneficial effects in hepatitis. Flavonoids derived from Scutellaria baicalensis produce antioxidative, antineoplastic, cardiomiocyte-protective activity. They inhibit agregation of platelets, permeability of capillary vessels, have antibacterial and anty-angiogenic effects.

The effects of tea extracts on proinflammatory signaling.

Site Editor — Sat, 06 Jan 2007 19:02:59 -0800

The effects of tea extracts on proinflammatory signaling.: BMC Med. 2006;4:28 Authors: Pajonk F, Riedisser A, Henke M, McBride WH, Fiebich B

BACKGROUND: Skin toxicity is a common side effect of radiotherapy for solid tumors. Its management can cause treatment gaps and thus can impair cancer treatment. At present, in many countries no standard recommendation for treatment of skin during radiotherapy exists. In this study, we explored the effect of topically-applied tea extracts on the duration of radiation-induced skin toxicity. We investigated the underlying molecular mechanisms and compared effects of tea extracts with the effects of epigallocatechin-gallate, the proposed most-active moiety of green tea. METHODS: Data from 60 patients with cancer of the head and neck or pelvic region topically treated with green or black tea extracts were analyzed retrospectively. Tea extracts were compared for their ability to modulate IL-1beta, IL-6, IL-8, TNFalpha and PGE2 release from human monocytes. Effects of tea extracts on 26S proteasome function were assessed. NF-kappaB activity was monitored by EMSAs. Viability and radiation response of macrophages after exposure to tea extracts was measured by MTT assays. RESULTS: Tea extracts supported the restitution of skin integrity. Tea extracts inhibited proteasome function and suppressed cytokine release. NF-kappaB activity was altered by tea extracts in a complex, caspase-dependent manner, which differed from the effects of epigallocatechin-gallate. Additionally, both tea extracts, as well as epigallocatechin-gallate, slightly protected macrophages from ionizing radiation CONCLUSION: Tea extracts are an efficient, broadly available treatment option for patients suffering from acute radiation-induced skin toxicity. The molecular mechanisms underlying the beneficial effects are complex, and most likely not exclusively dependent on effects of tea polyphenols such as epigallocatechin-gallate.

Increased anti-oxidative potency of garlic by spontaneous short-term fermentation.

Site Editor — Sat, 06 Jan 2007 00:06:13 -0800

Increased anti-oxidative potency of garlic by spontaneous short-term fermentation.: Plant Foods Hum Nutr. 2006 Dec;61(4):157-60 Authors: Sato E, Kohno M, Hamano H, Niwano Y

Fundamental anti-oxidative properties of 80% ethanol extract from garlic fermented for the relatively short period of time (40 days at 60-70 degrees C, 85-95% relative humidity) were examined. Superoxide dismutase (SOD)-like activity, scavenging activity against hydrogen peroxide and the polyphenol content of the garlic extract were increased 13-folds, more than 10-folds, and 7-folds, respectively, as compared with those of the control garlic extract. The results indicate that relatively short-term spontaneous fermentation potentiates anti-oxidative properties of garlic in fresh form, which is, at least in part, atantiotributable to the increased level of polyphenols. Since superoxide is the primary upstream radical of the chain reaction with reactive oxygen species and hydrogen peroxide is generated from the scavenging reaction by SOD, the fermented- garlic is suggested to possess desirable anti-oxidative properties.

Direct vasoactive and vasoprotective properties of anthocyanin-rich extracts.

Site Editor — Fri, 05 Jan 2007 23:58:24 -0800

Direct vasoactive and vasoprotective properties of anthocyanin-rich extracts.: J Appl Physiol. 2006 Apr;100(4):1164-70 Authors: Bell DR, Gochenaur K

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) play a critical role in the impairment of nitric oxide-mediated vascular functions and overall pathogenesis associated with cardiovascular disease. Plant pigment anthocyanins are exceptionally potent oxygen radical scavengers that produce beneficial effects in diseases outside the cardiovascular system. We examined for the first time the potential coronary vasoactive and vasoprotective properties of three anthocyanin enhanced extracts prepared from chokeberry (Ck), bilberry (B), or elderberry (E). Coronary arterial rings were isolated from 64 pigs and incubated in sterile tissue culture media overnight for use in one of four separate in vitro isometric force recording studies. Ck and B, but not E, produced dose- and endothelium-dependent vasorelaxation. (%maximal relaxation at 5 mg total anthocyanins per liter: Ck = 68 +/- 11, B = 59 +/- 10). Coronary vascular tone, endothelium-dependent vasorelaxation to A23187, and vasorelaxation to DEA NONOate were not affected by exposure of rings to any extract at 0.05 mg total anthocyanins per liter for 5 or 30 min. Ck extract at 0.05 mg total anthocyanins per liter showed the greatest protection against loss of A23187 relaxation following exposure to ROS from pyrogallol (Ck, % maximal relaxation and -logED50 to A23187, respectively, means +/- SE: Ck alone, 93 +/- 5%, 7.91 +/- 0.1; pyrogallol alone, 76 +/- 7%, 7.46 +/- 0.06; pyrogallol + Ck, 98 +/- 1%, 7.82 +/- 0.06; control: 99 +/- 1%, 7.86 +/- 0.07; P < 0.05 control vs. pyrogallol alone). Neither the extracts nor pyrogallol affected responses to DEA NONOate. Thus anthocyanin-enhanced extracts produce endothelium-dependent relaxation in porcine coronary arteries. Extract concentrations too low to directly alter coronary vascular tone protect coronary arteries from ROS without altering vasorelaxation to endogenous or exogenous NO. These results suggest that such extracts could have significant beneficial effects in vascular disease.

Ginseng extract exhibits antimutagenic activity against induced mutagenesis in various strains of Salmonella typhimurium.

Site Editor — Thu, 04 Jan 2007 17:56:17 -0800

Ginseng extract exhibits antimutagenic activity against induced mutagenesis in various strains of Salmonella typhimurium.: Indian J Exp Biol. 2006 Oct;44(10):838-41 Authors: Geetha T, Saini A, Kaur IP

Ginseng has been reported to exhibit antioxidant and antimutagenic activity. The present study was undertaken with a view to confirm whether the antioxidant activity of Ginseng is responsible for its antimutagenic action. The concentrated root extract of Panax ginseng (Ginseng extract I) and its lyophilized powder (Ginseng extract II) obtained from two different manufacturing houses, were tested against mutagenesis using the well-standardized Ames microsomal test system. The extracts exhibited antimutagenic effect against hydrogen peroxide induced mutagenesis in TA100 strain, and against mutagenesis produced by 4-nitroquinoline-N-oxide in both TA98 and TA100 strains of Salmonella typhimurium. Both the extracts failed to show any antimutagenic potential against tert-butyl hydroperoxide (an oxidative mutagen) in TA102 strain, a strain highly sensitive to active oxygen species. The extracts also indicated a weak antioxidant activity in a series of in vitro test systems viz., 1,1-diphenyl picryl hydrazyl (DPPH) assay, hydrogen peroxide scavenging and superoxide anion scavenging. The results indicate that the protective effects shown by ginseng extract(s) against 4-nitroquinoline-n-oxide and hydrogen peroxide induced mutagenesis in TA98 and TA100 could mainly be due to its property to initiate and promote DNA repair rather than free radical scavenging action.

Antioxidant property of Decalepis hamiltonii Wight & Arn.

Site Editor — Thu, 04 Jan 2007 17:55:32 -0800

Antioxidant property of Decalepis hamiltonii Wight & Arn.:
Indian J Exp Biol. 2006 Oct;44(10):832-7 Authors: Murthy KN, Rajasekaran T, Giridhar P, Ravishankar GA

Aromatic edible root of D. hamiltonii was subjected to the extraction of the antioxidant rich fraction. Different parts of root namely whole tuber, peel, tuber without peel and medullary portion were extracted with dichloromethane (European Patent No. W02005063272). The extract was found to contain flavor compound 2-hydroxy-4-methoxybenzaldehyde (2H4MB), which was identified by TLC and GC. Medullary portion was found to be rich in 2H4MB, (73.73 mg g(-1) dry tissue) followed by peel, containing 68.34 mg g(-1) 2H4MB. Different concentration of dichloromethane extracts were subjected for antioxidant assay by DPPH (1,1 dihydroxy 2-picryl hydrazyl) method, this has shown 44, 46.7% radical scavenging activity in case of medullary, peel extracts and 67.3% in case of pure 2-hydroxy-4-methoxybenzaldehyde at 100 ppm concentration, whereas ascorbic acid used as standard showed 94.3% activity. In beta-carotene linoleate model system (b-CLAMS) 43.46 and 45.7% antioxidant activity was observed in medullary and peel extracts at 100 ppm concentrations respectively, whereas standard 2-hydroxy-4-methoxybenzaldehyde exhibited 69.64% at 100 ppm and BHA (butylated hydroxyl anisole) 90.1% activity also at 100-ppm level. Similarly hydroxyl radical scavenging activity was found to be 48.36, 46.86, 48.26 and 73.60% in whole tuber, medullary, peel and standard 2-hydroxy-4-methoxy benzaldehyde respectively at 100 ppm levels. This is the first report on the antioxidant activity of D. hamiltonii. Results have shown that 2H4MB is one of the major constituents responsible for antioxidant activity. Hence the extract of D. hamiltonii can be utilized for the production of antioxidant rich fractions required for various health benefits.

Protective effect of ethanolic and water extracts of sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides L.) against the toxic effects of mustar

Site Editor — Thu, 04 Jan 2007 17:54:52 -0800

Protective effect of ethanolic and water extracts of sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides L.) against the toxic effects of mustard gas.: Indian J Exp Biol. 2006 Oct;44(10):821-31 Authors: Vijayaraghavan R, Gautam A, Kumar O, Pant SC, Sharma M, Singh S, Kumar HT, Singh AK, Nivsarkar M, Kaushik MP, Sawhney RC, Chaurasia OP, Prasad GB

Ethanolic extract of H. rhamnoides L. leaf (HL-EOH), water and ethanolic extract of H. rhamnoides fruit (HF-W and HF-EOH), and H. rhamnoides flavone from fruit (HR-flavone) were evaluated against percutaneously administered sulphur mustard (SM), a chemical warfare agent. The animals administered with SM (9.7, 19.3 and 38.7 mg/kg) died at various days depending upon the dose and there was a significant reduction in the body weight. The H. rhamnoides extracts (1 g/kg; 3 doses; po) significantly protected the lethality, with a protective index of 2.4, 1.7, 1.7 and 2.2 for HL-EOH, HF-W, HF-EOH and HR-flavone respectively. Reduced glutathione (GSH) and oxidized glutalthione (GSSG) levels were reduced, and malondialdehyde (MDA) was elevated after percutaneous administration of SM. Oral administration of HL-EOH and HR-flavone significantly protected the body weight loss. Recovery in the levels of GSH, GSSG and MDA were also observed following oral administration of HL-EOH and HR-flavone. All the extracts were non-toxic and the LD50 was more than 5 g/kg. The present study shows that percutaneous administration of SM induces oxidative stress and ethanolic extract of leaf of H. rhamnoides and H. rhamnoides flavone from fruit can significantly protect it.

[Influence of antioxidants on the development of benign prostatic hyperplasia.]

Site Editor — Wed, 03 Jan 2007 18:54:50 -0800

[Influence of antioxidants on the development of benign prostatic hyperplasia.]: Georgian Med News. 2006 Nov;(140):23-7 Authors: McHedlidze M, Shioshvili T

The main objectives of the study was the evaluation of concentration of endogenous antioxidants (Vitamins E, A, C and Beta-carotene) in the blood plasma of elderly men and to determine their roles in the development of benign prostatic hyperplasia. There were carried out investigations in 110 men during 2003-2006 in the Urological Clinic of the Tbilisi State Medical Academy. 71 patient entered into the main group (65-81 years old), who were diagnosed for benign prostate hyperplasia. The control group included 30 men (60-80 years old) who did not suffer from the typical signs of benign prostatic hyperplasia. Besides, to evaluate normal levels of endogenous antioxidants (Vitamins E, A, C and Beta-carotene) concentration in the blood plasma additionally were studied young practically healthy 10 persons (20-35 years old), they compiled the second control group. Our study showed that endogenous antioxidants concentration reduces in the blood plasma with the age, this reduction becomes more obvious with the clinical detection of prostate benign hyperplasia. It is recommended for elderly patients to control periodically the endogenous antioxidants level (Vitamins A, C, E and Beta-carotene) in the blood plasma and in the case of changes to get food enriched with vitamins or combined vitamins preparations. This will be accomplice factor for the prophylactic of benign prostatic hyperplasia. This will be prophylactic activity during the conservative treatment process (by alpha-adrenoceptor blocking drugs, phytotherapy medicines, 5 alpha-reductase inhibitors and others). Inclusion of vitamins complexes which contains antioxidants is necessary. Prescription of antioxidants complex after the operative treatment will accelerate the healing process and reduce the rehabilitation period.

The interaction of new plant flavonoids with rat liver mitochondria: relation between the anti- and pro-oxydant effect...

Site Editor — Wed, 03 Jan 2007 18:52:52 -0800

The interaction of new plant flavonoids with rat liver mitochondria: relation between the anti- and pro-oxydant effect and flavonoids concentration.: Therapie. 2006 Jul-Aug;61(4):347-55 Authors: Lahouel M, Amedah S, Zellagui A, Touil A, Rhouati S, Benyache F, Leghouchi E, Bousseboua H

Flavonoids are polyphenols derivatives of plant origin that possesses a broad range of pharmacological properties, including protection of cells and tissues against the deleterious effects of reactive oxygen species. Their antioxidant activity results from scavenging of free radicals and other oxidizing intermediates, from the chelation of iron or copper ions and from inhibition of oxidases. But a number of studies have found both anti and prooxidant effects for many of these compounds. These reasons prompted us to investigate whether flavonoids compounds alone or combined flavonoids had antioxidant, free radical scavenger and antiapoptotic properties. The investigation was carried in vitro using rat hepatic mitochondria. Respiratory control ratio (RCR), oxygen consumption, adenosine tri phosphate (ATP) synthesis, scavenging action, enzymatic activities of involved complexes, superoxide anion and the release of cytochrome C were measured to assess the mechanisms of action of these drugs. Our data showed that the decrease of RCR induced by high concentrations (0.1 mM and 0.01 mM) of all flavonoids tested was due to a common inhibition of oxidative phosphorylation (State 4) and activation of state 3. At the opposite mitochondrial swelling was slightly induced only by low concentrations (10(-8) and 10(-9) M) of the flavonoids. They had no effects on the mitochondrial complexes (I to V) activity. Furthermore the mitochondrial membrane potential was not affected by any flavonoids. The effect of flavonoids on superoxide anion generation was variable. All the flavonoids studied acted between 10(-4) M and 10(-6) M with no effects at lower concentrations. These effects were similar on lipid peroxidation (malondialdehyde [MDA] levels). We remarked a concentration-dependent in the effect of flavonoids since they acted as antioxidant and also as uncoupler at high concentrations, which is a risk for the cells. We conclude that flavonoids extracted from algerian plants have some protecting effects against oxidative stress by protecting the mitochondria.

Restorative effect of Kalpaamruthaa, an indigenous preparation, on oxidative damage in mammary gland mitochondrial fraction...

Site Editor — Wed, 03 Jan 2007 18:51:20 -0800

Restorative effect of Kalpaamruthaa, an indigenous preparation, on oxidative damage in mammary gland mitochondrial fraction in experimental mammary carcinoma.: Mol Cell Biochem. 2006 Oct;291(1-2):77-82 Authors: Arulkumaran S, Ramprasath VR, Shanthi P, Sachdanandam P

Cancer prevention and treatment using phytochemicals have attracted increased interest. Recent studies have shown that Semecarpus anacardium Linn nut milk extract (SA), a promising antioxidant and anticancer drug, exerts its anticancer effect through reducing or quenching reactive oxygen species under different conditions. The present study examined whether Phyllanthus emblica Linn fruit, rich in vitamin C content synergistically in combination can enhance both the antioxidant and anticancer activity of S. anacardium nut milk extract in 7, 12-dimethyl benz[a]anthracene (DMBA)-induced experimental mammary carcinoma in rat model. Female Sprague Dawley rats of 180 +/- 10 g were categorized into six groups. Three groups were administered DMBA (25mg/rat, orally) dissolved in olive oil to induce mammary carcinoma. One of these groups received Kalpaamruthaa (KA) (300 mg/kg b.wt, orally) and other group received SA (200mg/kg b.wt, orally) for 14 days after 90 days of DMBA induction. A vehicle treated control and drug control groups were also included. The mitochondrial fraction of untreated DMBA-induced mammary gland showed 2.61-fold increase in lipid peroxidation level and abnormal changes in the activities/levels of mitochondrial enzymic (superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase and glutathione reductase) and non-enzymic (glutathione, vitamin C and vitamin E) antioxidants were observed. DMBA treated rats also showed decline in the activities of mitochondrial enzymes such as succinate dehydrogenase, malate dehydrogenase, alpha-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase and isocitrate dehydrogenase. In contrast, rats treated with Kalpaamruthaa showed normal lipid peroxide level and antioxidant defenses. The results of the present study highlight the improved antioxidant property of KA than sole treatment of S. anacardium nut milk extract.

Recovery of catechin compounds from Korean tea by solvent extraction.

Site Editor — Fri, 06 Oct 2006 16:48:27 -0700

Recovery of catechin compounds from Korean tea by solvent extraction.: Bioresour Technol. 2006 Mar;97(5):790-3 Authors: Row KH, Jin Y

Catechin compounds from Korean green tea as potential sources of anticancer and antioxidant components were target materials in this work. The methodologies of solvent extraction and partition were utilized to recover catechin compounds from green tea. The optimum experimental condition was obtained by optimizing operating factors, such as, the extraction solvent, extraction time and operating temperature. After extracting the green tea with water at 80 degrees C for 40 min, the extract was partitioned with water/chloroform, which was best suited to remove caffeine impurity from the extract. Further, the resulting extract was partitioned water/ethyl acetate to deeply purify the catechin compounds of EGC, EC, EGCG and ECG. The experimental result in this work could be extended to preparative HPLC to obtain EGCG on commercial scale.

Aged garlic extract inhibits peroxynitrite-induced hemolysis.

Site Editor — Thu, 05 Oct 2006 18:26:04 -0700

Aged garlic extract inhibits peroxynitrite-induced hemolysis.: Redox Rep. 2005;10(3):159-65 Authors: Morihara N, Ide N, Sumioka I, Kyo E

Nitric oxide (NO), which is synthesized by constitutive NO synthase (cNOS), plays important roles in physiological functions of the cardiovascular system. However, NO, which is synthesized by inducible NOS, is detrimental when it reacts with superoxide to form peroxynitrite. Peroxynitrite is recognized as a powerful oxidant, and results in vascular or tissue damage. We have previously reported that aged garlic extract (AGE) enhances NO production through cNOS stimulation. In the present study, we determined the effect of AGE, its fractions or constituents on peroxynitrite-induced hemolysis using rat erythrocytes. Incubation of rat erythrocytes with peroxynitrite (300 microM) for 30 min at 37 degrees C caused 4-fold hemolysis. AGE (0.14-0.57 %w/v) added to an erythrocyte suspension was found to reduce peroxynitrite-induced hemolysis in a concentration-dependent manner. Of the AGE fractions, a polar fraction and a low-molecular-weight fraction both suppressed the hemolysis to the same degree as that seen with AGE. S-allylcysteine, one of the major compounds in AGE, also reduced hemolysis at 1-10 mM dose-dependently. These data indicate that AGE and its compounds protect erythrocytes from membrane damage induced by peroxynitrite, suggesting that AGE could be useful for prevention of cardiovascular diseases associated with oxidative stress or dysfunction of NO production.

Inhibitory effect of 18beta-glycyrrhetinic acid on 12-O-tetradecanoyl phorbol-13-acetate-induced cutaneous oxidative stress...

Site Editor — Thu, 05 Oct 2006 18:22:42 -0700

Inhibitory effect of 18beta-glycyrrhetinic acid on 12-O-tetradecanoyl phorbol-13-acetate-induced cutaneous oxidative stress and tumor promotion in mice.: Redox Rep. 2005;10(3):151-7 Authors: Agarwal MK, Iqbal M, Athar M

Glycyrrhetinic acid is an aglycone of glycyrrhizic acid, another major active component of licorice roots. Licorice root extract has been used for a long time as a medicine and a natural sweetening additive. In the present study, we found that glycyrrhetinic acid inhibits 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA) mediated oxidative stress and tumor promotion in murine skin. Topical application of TPA alone in mouse skin enhances ornithine decarboxylase activity and also increases [3H]-thymidine incorporation in DNA. Topical application of TPA also resulted in the depletion of glutathione, activities of glutathione metabolizing and antioxidant enzymes. Application of glycyrrhetinic acid prior to TPA treatment reduces this enhanced ODC activity, [3H]-thymidine incorporation in DNA and oxidative stress. Glycyrrhetinic acid was also found to inhibit DMBA/TPA-induced skin tumor formation at doses of 1.25 and 2.5 mg by reducing the number of tumors per mouse by 24% (P < 0.05) and 62% (P < 0.05), respectively. These results suggest that glycyrrhetinic acid, an antioxidant, is a potential chemopreventive agent that can inhibit DMBA/TPA-induced cutaneous oxidative stress and tumor promotion.

Effect of Ganoderma lucidum on human DNA is dose dependent and mediated by hydrogen peroxide.

Site Editor — Thu, 05 Oct 2006 18:20:33 -0700

Effect of Ganoderma lucidum on human DNA is dose dependent and mediated by hydrogen peroxide.: Redox Rep. 2005;10(3):145-9 Authors: Wachtel-Galor S, Choi SW, Benzie IF

Ganoderma lucidum, an oriental fungus, is widely used for the promotion of health and longevity and is reported to have antioxidant and genoprotective properties. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of G. lucidum on human lymphocytic DNA ex vivo using the comet assay, and to explore the mechanism of action and the effect of dose. Results showed that G. lucidum has a genoprotective effect at low concentration (0.0001% w/v), but damaged DNA at higher concentrations. The mechanism of damage appeared to be mediated by hydrogen peroxide, which was generated in vitro by G. lucidum, as the effect was ameliorated by the presence of catalase. At concentrations at which no damage was induced, G. lucidum appeared to confer protection against subsequent oxidant challenge to cells. The production of hydrogen peroxide by G. lucidum and its cytotoxic effects should be considered as a factor in future studies. However, the protective effect of G. lucidum at low concentration may explain, in part, some of the reported health benefits of this herb.

An adjunctive preventive treatment for cancer: Ultraviolet light and ginkgo biloba...

Site Editor — Fri, 09 Jun 2006 07:22:32 -0700

An adjunctive preventive treatment for cancer: Ultraviolet light and ginkgo biloba, together with other antioxidants, are a safe and powerful, but largely ignored, treatment option for the prevention of cancer.: Med Hypotheses. 2006 Feb 14; Authors: Eli R, Fasciano JA

Cancer has surpassed heart disease as the leading cause of death in the United States. The mortality rate for cancer is high (roughly 42%), and it increases dramatically with increasing age, especially in patients between the ages of 40 and 60 years old. Currently, the efforts at cancer prevention have been minimal. The drugs developed so far are expensive and have serious side effects. There are at least 18 vitamin D-sensitive cancers. Ultraviolet light, and specifically ultraviolet B (UVB), could reduce cancer by the limited exposure of suitable skin areas to UVB of an intensity and duration insufficient to produce skin cancer. An irrational fear of skin cancer is preventing this idea from being implemented. Though skin cancer incidence is significant, mortality from skin cancer is relatively rare. Roughly 1,000,000 Americans will be affected by skin cancer but only 10,000 deaths are expected in 2005 (a 1% mortality rate). Skin cancer is easily detected and often cured by excisional biopsy alone. Current practice among practicing clinicians is to use a prescription drug substitute for UV light, calcitriol (1-25 dihydroxycholcalciferol). However, high levels of (calcitriol) are dangerous, and there is no consensus on just what a high dose or a safe dose is. Apart from skin cancer, UV light exposure possesses few risks. Additionally, a number of botanical agents such as ginkgo biloba, vitamins E and C, carotenoids, selenium and proanthocyanidins can prevent the risk of skin cancer. Ginkgo biloba also possess the following additional cancer chemopreventive qualities: (1) promoting apoptosis of cancer cells; (2) an anti-clastogenic effect on chromosomes by repairing and reconstituting broken and damaged chromosomes; (3) a powerful therapeutic effect on the treatment of fibrosis-related cancer; (4) a therapeutic effect on free radical-induced cancer; (5) a therapeutic effect on the treatment of cancer incident to the result of numerous carcinogens; (6) a therapeutic effect on preventing free radical-induced cancer; (7) an enhancing effect on radiation therapy in the treatment of cancer; and (8) a therapeutic effect on reducing the size of cancer tumors. Ginkgo biloba is widely-used and has few adverse effects. The proposed preventive treatment for cancer consists of short intermittent exposure of the least sensitive areas of the body to sunlight and/or artificial ultraviolet light. The routine testing of plasma vitamin D levels help monitor the effectiveness of the treatment and periodic checkups with a dermatologist help monitor the safety.