Herbal Science Research - phytochemistry

Some phytochemical, pharmacological and toxicological properties of ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe): A review [...]

Site Editor — Fri, 02 Nov 2007 15:49:24 -0700

Some phytochemical, pharmacological and toxicological properties of ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe): A review of recent research.: Food Chem Toxicol. 2007 Sep 18; Ali BH, Blunden G, Tanira MO, Nemmar A

Ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe, Zingiberacae) is a medicinal plant that has been widely used in Chinese, Ayurvedic and Tibb-Unani herbal medicines all over the world, since antiquity, for a wide array of unrelated ailments that include arthritis, rheumatism, sprains, muscular aches, pains, sore throats, cramps, constipation, indigestion, vomiting, hypertension, dementia, fever, infectious diseases and helminthiasis. Currently, there is a renewed interest in ginger, and several scientific investigations aimed at isolation and identification of active constituents of ginger, scientific verification of its pharmacological actions and of its constituents, and verification of the basis of the use of ginger in some of several diseases and conditions. This article aims at reviewing the most salient recent reports on these investigations. The main pharmacological actions of ginger and compounds isolated therefrom include immuno-modulatory, anti-tumorigenic, anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, anti-hyperglycemic, anti-lipidemic and anti-emetic actions. Ginger is a strong anti-oxidant substance and may either mitigate or prevent generation of free radicals. It is considered a safe herbal medicine with only few and insignificant adverse/side effects. More studies are required in animals and humans on the kinetics of ginger and its constituents and on the effects of their consumption over a long period of time.

Direct NMR analysis of cannabis water extracts and tinctures and semi-quantitative data on Delta(9)-THC and Delta(9)-THC-acid.

Site Editor — Fri, 02 Nov 2007 15:46:14 -0700

Direct NMR analysis of cannabis water extracts and tinctures and semi-quantitative data on Delta(9)-THC and Delta(9)-THC-acid.: Phytochemistry. 2007 Oct 25; Politi M, Peschel W, Wilson N, Zloh M, Prieto JM, Heinrich M

Cannabis sativa L. is the source for a whole series of chemically diverse bioactive compounds that are currently under intensive pharmaceutical investigation. In this work, hot and cold water extracts as well as ethanol/water mixtures (tinctures) of cannabis were compared in order to better understand how these extracts differ in their overall composition. NMR analysis and in vitro cell assays of crude extracts and fractions were performed. Manufacturing procedures to produce natural remedies can strongly affect the final composition of the herbal medicines. Temperature and polarity of the solvents used for the extraction resulted to be two factors that affect the total amount of Delta(9)-THC in the extracts and its relative quantity with respect to Delta(9)-THC-acid and other metabolites. Diffusion-edited (1)H NMR (1D DOSY) and (1)H NMR with suppression of the ethanol and water signals were used. With this method it was possible, without any evaporation or separation step, to distinguish between tinctures from different cannabis cultivars. This approach is proposed as a direct analysis of plant tinctures.

The role of alkamides as an active principle of echinacea.

Site Editor — Fri, 02 Nov 2007 05:39:07 -0700

The role of alkamides as an active principle of echinacea.: Planta Med. 2007 Jun;73(7):615-23 Authors: Woelkart K, Bauer R

Alkamides are the major lipophilic constituents of ECHINACEA preparations, which are widely used in some European countries and in North America for common colds. In earlier investigations they have been shown to possess stimulatory effects on phagocytosis. Recent experiments have demonstrated that alkamides are detectable in human blood in relevant concentrations after oral administration of Echinacea preparations. Alkamides show structural similarity with anandamide, an endogenous ligand of cannabinoid receptors. Consequently, it was found that alkamides bind significantly to CB (2) receptors, which is now considered as a possible molecular mode of action of Echinacea alkamides as immunomodulatory agents. It was also demonstrated recently in several studies that alkamide-containing Echinacea preparations trigger effects on the pro-inflammatory cytokines. They were therefore suggested as a new class of cannabinomimetics. However, the therapeutic relevance of these findings is still not clear as clinical studies on the common cold show contradictory results. Among the many pharmacological properties reported, investigations concerning herb-drug interactions have been neglected for a long time. Latest research concludes that prolonged use of Echinacea poses a minimal risk for co-medications metabolized by the P450 enzymes.

PMID: 17538868 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Red American ginseng: ginsenoside constituents and antiproliferative activities of heat-processed Panax quinquefolius roots.

Site Editor — Fri, 02 Nov 2007 05:38:23 -0700

Red American ginseng: ginsenoside constituents and antiproliferative activities of heat-processed Panax quinquefolius roots.: Planta Med. 2007 Jun;73(7):669-74 Authors: Wang CZ, Aung HH, Ni M, Wu JA, Tong R, Wicks S, He TC, Yuan CS

Red Asian ginseng ( Panax ginseng C. A. Meyer, Araliaceae) is used in many Oriental countries. In this study, the saponin constituents and anticancer activities of steamed American ginseng ( Panax quinquefolius L.) roots were evaluated. The contents of 12 ginsenosides in the roots were determined using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). After the steaming treatment (100 - 120 degrees C for 1 h and 120 degrees C for 0.5 - 4 h), the quantity of 7 ginsenosides decreased and that of 5 others increased. The content of ginsenoside Rg3, a previously recognized anticancer compound, increased significantly when the root was steamed at 120 degrees C for 0.5 - 3 h. The antiproliferative effects of unsteamed and steamed (120 degrees C for 1 h and 2 h) American ginseng root extracts were assayed by the modified trichrome stain (MTS) method using three cancer cell lines (SW-480, HT-29, NSCLC). Heat-processing increased the antiproliferative effect of American ginseng significantly, and the activity of the extract from roots steamed for 2 h was greater than that of roots steamed for 1 h. Chemical constituents and antiproliferative activities of white and red Asian ginseng have also been evaluated. Five representative ginsenosides, Rb1, Rd, Re, Rg2 and Rg3, were studied. Ginsenoside Rg3 had the most potent effect. The antiproliferative activities of red American ginseng are augmented when ginsenoside Rg3 is increased.

PMID: 17538869 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Role of advances in chromatographic techniques in phytochemistry.

Site Editor — Mon, 22 Oct 2007 18:19:54 -0700

Role of advances in chromatographic techniques in phytochemistry.: Phytochemistry. 2007 Oct 9; Authors: Marston A

Chromatography is the lynchpin of phytochemistry and is the key to obtaining pure compounds for structure elucidation, for pharmacological testing or for development into therapeuticals. It also plays a fundamental role as an analytical technique for quality control and standardisation of phytotherapeuticals. Although liquid chromatography is barely 100 years old, an extraordinary variety of instrumental and ancillary equipment is available, notably in the domain of high-performance liquid chromatography. It is impossible to touch all areas of chromatography in such a review but certain areas are worthy of mention: HPLC, HPTLC, UPLC and countercurrent chromatography. Another important addition has been the development of hyphenated techniques involving HPLC: LC/UV, LC/MS, LC/MS(n) and LC/NMR. These are indispensable nowadays for the early detection and identification of compounds in crude plant extracts.

PMID: 17931672 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

Pharmacokinetics and Metabolic Profile of Free, Conjugated and Total Silymarin Flavonolignans in Human Plasma [...].

Site Editor — Sun, 14 Oct 2007 01:14:57 -0700

Pharmacokinetics and Metabolic Profile of Free, Conjugated and Total Silymarin Flavonolignans in Human Plasma after Oral Administration of Milk Thistle Extract.: Drug Metab Dispos. 2007 Oct 3; Authors: Wen Z, Dumas TE, Schrieber SJ, Hawke RL, Fried MW, Smith PC

Silymarin, a mixture of polyphenolic flavonoids extracted from milk thistle (Silybum marianum), is mainly composed of silychristin (SC), silydianin (SD), silybin A (SBA), silybin B (SBB), isosilybin A (ISBA), and isosilybin B (ISBB). In this study, the plasma concentrations of free (unconjugated), conjugated (sulfated and glucuronidated), and total (free and conjugated) silymarin flavonolignans were measured using a liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-mass spectrometry, after a single oral dose of 600 mg standardized milk thistle extracts to three healthy volunteers. Pharmacokinetic analysis indicated that silymarin flavonolignans were rapidly eliminated with short half-lives (1 to 3 and 3 to 8 h for the free and conjugated, respectively). The AUC0-->infinity values of the conjugated silymarin flavonolignans were 4- to 30-fold higher than those of their free fractions, with SBB (mean AUC0-->infinity = 51 and 597 microg.h/l for the free and conjugated, respectively) and ISBA (mean AUC0-->infinity = 30 and 734 microg.h/l for the free and conjugated, respectively) exhibiting higher AUC0-->infinity values in comparison to other flavonolignans. Near the plasma peak times (1 to 3 h), the free, sulfated, and glucuronidated flavonolignans represented approximately 17, 28, and 55 % of the total silymarin, respectively. In addition, the individual silymarin flavonolignans exhibited quite different plasma profiles for both the free and conjugated fractions. These data suggest that, after oral administration, silymarin flavonolignans are quickly metabolized to their conjugates, primarily forming glucuronides, and the conjugates are primary components present in human plasma.

PMID: 17913795 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

[Study on influence of processing methods on chemical constituents in Radix Paeoniae Alba]

Site Editor — Thu, 04 Oct 2007 05:23:50 -0700

[Study on influence of processing methods on chemical constituents in Radix Paeoniae Alba]: Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi. 2006 Sep;31(17):1418-21 Authors: Wang Q, Liu RX, Guo HZ, Zhu ZN, Bi KS, Guo DA

OBJECTIVE: The influence of processing methods on chemical constituents in Radix Paeoniae Alba was observed. METHOD: A HPLC method was used for analyzing the changes of eight major constituents, namely gallic acid, paeoniflorin sulfonate, catechin, paeoniflorin sulfonate, albiflorin, paeoniflorin, benzoic acid, pentagalloylglucose and benzoylpaeoniflorin, with the three processing procedures of decorticating, boiling and fumigating by burning of sulphur. Analysis was performed using a Zorbax SB-C18 column (4.6 mm x 250 mm, 5 microm) with the mixture of acetonitrile (A) and 0.015% phosphoric acid solution as mobile phase in gradient mode. The detection wavelength was set at 230 nm and the column temperature was at 30 degrees C. RESULT: Except for gallic acid and pentagalloylglucose, the other constituents decreased during procedure of decorticating and boiling. Fumigating by burning of sulphur would produce a new compound, paeoniflorin sulfonate, which was a byproduct from the reaction of paeoniflorin with SO2. CONCLSION: The significant changes were produced in chemical constituents of Radix Paeoniae Alba during three processing procedures. Therefore, the processing of Radix Paeoniae Alba should be strictly controlled and standardized.

PMID: 17087079 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

A new glycoside from Alpinia officinarum.

Site Editor — Thu, 04 Oct 2007 05:22:58 -0700

A new glycoside from Alpinia officinarum.: Yao Xue Xue Bao. 2006 Mar;41(3):233-5 Authors: An N, Lin J, Yang SL, Zou ZM, Xu LZ

AIM: To investigate the glycosidic constituents in the rhizomes of Alpinia officinarum Hance. METHODS: The isolation and purification of glycosides were done with column chromatography on macro porous resin, polyamides and Sephadex LH-20, whilst the structure elucidation was done by HRCI-MS and NMR (1D and 2D) methods. RESULTS: A glycosidic ester identified as 4'-hydroxy-2'-methoxyphenol-beta-D-{6-0-[4"-hydroxy-3", 5"-dimethoxy (benzoate)]}-glucopyranoside (I), along with a known compound n-butyl-beta-D-fructopyranoside (II), were isolated and characterized. CONCLUSION: I was found to be a new compound, named as alpinoside A, whilst II was isolated from the genus Alpinia for the first time.

PMID: 16758994 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Medicinal chemistry endeavors around the phytocannabinoids.

Site Editor — Sun, 30 Sep 2007 02:37:45 -0700

Medicinal chemistry endeavors around the phytocannabinoids.: Chem Biodivers. 2007 Aug;4(8):1707-28 Authors: Stern E, Lambert DM

Over the past 50 years, a considerable research in medicinal chemistry has been carried out around the natural constituents of Cannabis sativa L. Following the identification of Delta9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Delta9-THC) in 1964, critical chemical modifications, e.g., variation of the side chain at C3 and the opening of the tricyclic scaffold, have led to the characterization of potent and cannabinoid receptor subtype-selective ligands. Those ligands that demonstrate high affinity for the cannabinoid receptors and good biological efficacy are still used as powerful pharmacological tools. This review summarizes past as well as recent developments in the structure-activity relationships of phytocannabinoids.

PMID: 17712816 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Plant natural products: back to the future or into extinction?

Site Editor — Sun, 30 Sep 2007 02:33:17 -0700

Plant natural products: back to the future or into extinction?: Phytochemistry. 2007 Jul;68(14):2015-22 Authors: McChesney JD, Venkataraman SK, Henri JT

Natural product substances have historically served as the most significant source of new leads for pharmaceutical development. However, with the advent of robotics, bioinformatics, high throughput screening (HTS), molecular biology-biotechnology, combinatorial chemistry, in silico (molecular modeling) and other methodologies, the pharmaceutical industry has largely moved away from plant derived natural products as a source for leads and prospective drug candidates. Can, or will, natural products ever recapture the preeminent position they once held as a foundation for drug discovery and development? The challenges associated with development of natural products as pharmaceuticals are illustrated by the Taxol story. Several misconceptions, which constrain utilization of plant natural products, for discovery and development of pharmaceuticals, are addressed to return natural products to the forefront.

PMID: 17574638 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

A journey of twenty-five years through the ecological biochemistry of flavonoids.

Site Editor — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 19:06:14 -0700

A journey of twenty-five years through the ecological biochemistry of flavonoids.: Biosci Biotechnol Biochem. 2007 Jun;71(6):1387-404 Authors: Tahara S

The ecological biochemistry of flavonoids, in which I have been engaged for 25 years, is summarized in this review article. The review covers (1) a survey of rare bio-active flavonoids in higher plants; (2) the fungal metabolism of prenylated flavonoids; (3) flavonoids antidoting against benzimidazole fungicides; (4) dihydroflavonol ampelopsin in Salix sachalinensis as a feeding stimulant towards willow beetles; and (5) flavones as signaling substances in the life-cycle development of the phytopathogenic Peronosporomycete Aphanomyces cochlioides, a cause of spinach root rot and sugar beet damping-off diseases. Finally recent trends in the ecological biochemistry of flavonoids are briefly described.

PMID: 17587669 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Effect of selected phytochemicals and apple extracts on NF-kappaB activation in human breast cancer MCF-7 cells.

Site Editor — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 06:01:47 -0700

Effect of selected phytochemicals and apple extracts on NF-kappaB activation in human breast cancer MCF-7 cells.: J Agric Food Chem. 2007 Apr 18;55(8):3167-73 Authors: Yoon H, Liu RH

Nuclear factor kappaB (NF-kappaB) is a transcription factor, which plays an important role in inflammation, cell proliferation, apoptosis, and immunity in eukaryotes. In cancer cells, NF-kappaB induces resistance to anticancer chemotherapeutic agents by increasing cell proliferation and inhibiting apoptosis. Therefore, inhibition of NF-kappaB activation in cancer cells is advantageous in cancer therapy by lowing the resistance to chemotherapy. Several phytochemicals from fruits and vegetables have been reported to inhibit NF-kappaB activation, but the mechanisms of how the phytochemicals work have not been fully understood. The present study examines the effects of selected phytochemicals and apple extracts on TNF-alpha-induced NF-kappaB activation in human breast cancer MCF-7 cells. Apple extracts significantly inhibited the TNF-alpha-induced NF-kappaB activation at a dose of 5 mg/mL (p < 0.05). Curcumin also significantly blocked the TNF-alpha-induced NF-kappaB activation at doses of 10 and 20 microM (p < 0.05). Neither apple extracts nor curcumin affected phosphorylation of inhibitor of NF-kappaB-alpha (IkappaB-alpha); both significantly inhibited proteasomal activity of MCF-7 cells at doses of 2.5 and 5 mg/mL of apple extracts and 20 microM of curcumin (p < 0.05). These results suggest that apple extracts and curcumin have the capabilities of inhibiting TNF-alpha-induced NF-kappaB activation of MCF-7 cells by inhibiting the proteasomal activities instead of IkappaB kinase (IKK) activation.

Phytochemical and analytical studies of extracts from Rhodiola rosea and Rhodiola quadrifida.

Site Editor — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 05:46:48 -0700

Phytochemical and analytical studies of extracts from Rhodiola rosea and Rhodiola quadrifida.: Pharmazie. 2007 Apr;62(4):308-11 Authors: Wiedenfeld H, Dumaa M, Malinowski M, Furmanowa M, Narantuya S

Column chromatography of hydrophilic extracts from Rhodiola rosea and Rodiola quadrifida led to the isolation of cinnamic alcohol, chlorogenic acid, rhodiooctanoside, rosiridin, rosavin and the phenolic compounds salidroside, rhodiolin and a novel compound consisting of viridoside with an attached arabinose unit (mongrhoside). HPLC analysis of plant material from different sources and from different collection periods showed a great variability in the composition and in the amount of pharmacologically active compounds contained.

The Role of Alkamides as an Active Principle of Echinacea.

Site Editor — Wed, 06 Jun 2007 00:22:32 -0700

The Role of Alkamides as an Active Principle of Echinacea.: Planta Med. 2007 May 31; Authors: Woelkart K, Bauer R

Alkamides are the major lipophilic constituents of ECHINACEA preparations, which are widely used in some European countries and in North America for common colds. In earlier investigations they have been shown to possess stimulatory effects on phagocytosis. Recent experiments have demonstrated that alkamides are detectable in human blood in relevant concentrations after oral administration of ECHINACEA preparations. Alkamides show structural similarity with anandamide, an endogenous ligand of cannabinoid receptors. Consequently, it was found that alkamides bind significantly to CB (2) receptors, which is now considered as a possible molecular mode of action of ECHINACEA alkamides as immunomodulatory agents. It was also demonstrated recently in several studies that alkamide-containing ECHINACEA preparations trigger effects on the pro-inflammatory cytokines. They were therefore suggested as a new class of cannabinomimetics. However, the therapeutic relevance of these findings is still not clear as clinical studies on the common cold show contradictory results. Among the many pharmacological properties reported, investigations concerning herb-drug interactions have been neglected for a long time. Latest research concludes that prolonged use of ECHINACEA poses a minimal risk for co-medications metabolized by the P450 enzymes.

Red American Ginseng: Ginsenoside Constituents and Antiproliferative Activities of Heat-Processed Panax quinquefolius Roots.

Site Editor — Wed, 06 Jun 2007 00:14:00 -0700

Red American Ginseng: Ginsenoside Constituents and Antiproliferative Activities of Heat-Processed Panax quinquefolius Roots.: Planta Med. 2007 May 31;
Wang CZ, Aung HH, Ni M, Wu JA, Tong R, Wicks S, He TC, Yuan CS

Red Asian ginseng ( PANAX GINSENG C. A. Meyer, Araliaceae) is used in many Oriental countries. In this study, the saponin constituents and anticancer activities of steamed American ginseng ( PANAX QUINQUEFOLIUS L.) roots were evaluated. The contents of 12 ginsenosides in the roots were determined using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). After the steaming treatment (100 - 120 degrees C for 1 h and 120 degrees C for 0.5 - 4 h), the quantity of 7 ginsenosides decreased and that of 5 others increased. The content of ginsenoside Rg3, a previously recognized anticancer compound, increased significantly when the root was steamed at 120 degrees C for 0.5 - 3 h. The antiproliferative effects of unsteamed and steamed (120 degrees C for 1 h and 2 h) American ginseng root extracts were assayed by the modified trichrome stain (MTS) method using three cancer cell lines (SW-480, HT-29, NSCLC). Heat-processing increased the antiproliferative effect of American ginseng significantly, and the activity of the extract from roots steamed for 2 h was greater than that of roots steamed for 1 h. Chemical constituents and antiproliferative activities of white and red Asian ginseng have also been evaluated. Five representative ginsenosides, Rb1, Rd, Re, Rg2 and Rg3, were studied. Ginsenoside Rg3 had the most potent effect. The antiproliferative activities of red American ginseng are augmented when ginsenoside Rg3 is increased.

...determination of inonotsuoxides A and B and in vivo anti-tumor promoting activity of [...] the sclerotia of Inonotus obliquus

Site Editor — Wed, 21 Feb 2007 18:16:08 -0800

Structure determination of inonotsuoxides A and B and in vivo anti-tumor promoting activity of inotodiol from the sclerotia of Inonotus obliquus.: Bioorg Med Chem. 2007 Jan 1;15(1):257-64 Authors: Nakata T, Yamada T, Taji S, Ohishi H, Wada S, Tokuda H, Sakuma K, Tanaka R

Two new lanostane-type triterpenoids, inonotsuoxides A (1) and B (2) along with three known lanostane-type triterpenoids, inotodiol (3), trametenolic acid (4), and lanosterol (5), were isolated from the sclerotia of Inonotus obliquus (Pers.: Fr.) (Japanese name: Kabanoanakake) (Russian name: Chaga). Their structures were determined to be 22R,25-epoxylanost-8-ene-3beta,24S-diol (1) and 22S,25-epoxylanost-8-ene-3beta,24S-diol (2) on the basis of spectral data including single crystal X-ray analysis. These compounds except for 2 were tested for their inhibitory effects on Epstein-Barr virus early antigen (EBV-EA) activation induced by 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA), as a test for potential cancer chemopreventive agents. The most abundant triterpene, inotodiol (3), was investigated for the inhibitory effect in a two-stage carcinogenesis test on mouse skin using 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (DMBA) as an initiator and TPA as a promoter. Compound 3 was found to exhibit the potent anti-tumor promoting activity in the in vivo carcinogenesis test.

Anethole, a potential antimicrobial synergist, converts a fungistatic dodecanol to a fungicidal agent.

Site Editor — Wed, 21 Feb 2007 18:10:39 -0800

Anethole, a potential antimicrobial synergist, converts a fungistatic dodecanol to a fungicidal agent.: Phytother Res. 2007 Jan;21(1):47-51 Authors: Fujita K, Fujita T, Kubo I

Anethole shows synergistic effects on the antifungal activities of phytochemicals including polygodial and (2E)-undecenal against Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Candida albicans. It was found that a fungistatic dodecanol combined with a sublethal amount of anethole showed a fungicidal activity against S. cerevisiae. The MIC of dodecanol quickly reduced cell viability, but the cell viability recovered shortly after and then finally became no longer different from the control, indicating that the effect of dodecanol on this yeast was classified as sublethal damage. On the other hand, anethole completely restricted the recovery of cell viability. Therefore the expression of the synergistic effect was probably due to a blockade of the recovery process from dodecanol-induced stress.

Comparative studies of various ganoderma species...with regard to their antitumor and immunomodulating activities in vitro

Site Editor — Thu, 01 Feb 2007 16:56:49 -0800

Comparative studies of various ganoderma species and their different parts with regard to their antitumor and immunomodulating activities in vitro.: J Altern Complement Med. 2006 Oct;12(8):777-89 Authors: Yue GG, Fung KP, Tse GM, Leung PC, Lau CB

OBJECTIVES: Ganoderma lucidum (Lingzhi or Reishi) has been commonly suggested in East Asia as a potential candidate for prevention and treatment of different diseases, including cancer. Ganoderma extracts, in particular Ganoderma lucidum (extracts or isolated components), have previously been shown to possess antitumor activities. The present study aimed at comparing three different species of Ganoderma, wildly grown versus cultivated, as well as the different parts of the fruiting body (whole fruiting body, pileus, and stipe), with regard to their antitumor effects in human breast cancer cells and immunomodulatory activities in mouse splenic lymphocytes in vitro. METHODS: The aqueous extracts (12.5-400 microg/mL) of G. lucidum, G. sinense, and G. tsugae were examined for their antiproliferative activities in human breast cancer cell lines, MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231, as well as in normal human mammary epithelial cells (primary culture). The immunomodulatory effects of the extracts were evaluated in mouse splenic lymphocytes. The proliferative responses of the mentioned cell types were determined by MTT [3-(4,5-dimethylthiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyl-tetrazolium bromide] assay. RESULTS: The present results demonstrated that the extracts of all tested Ganoderma samples could significantly inhibit cell proliferation in human breast cancer cell lines MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231, with G. tsugae being the most potent. The extracts, however, did not exert any significant cytotoxic effect on human normal mammary epithelial cells. Within the species G. sinense, the inhibitory effects of wildly grown samples were not significantly different from those of the cultivated samples, except at 400 microg/mL. Most of the tested extracts of Ganoderma stimulated mouse splenic lymphocytes proliferation. The extracts from the stipes of the G. tsugae and wildly grown G. sinense showed much stronger inhibitory effects than the other parts of the fruiting body in both cancer cell lines, whereas the extracts from the stipes of G. lucidum and wildly grown G. sinense showed stronger immunopotentiating activities in mouse splenic lymphocytes. CONCLUSIONS: These results indicate that the aqueous extracts of these commonly available Ganoderma fruiting bodies, G. lucidum, G. sinense, and G. tsugae have antitumor activities in human breast cancer cells and immunomodulatory activities in murine lymphocytes. In addition, the present findings also suggest that the stipes of fruiting bodies of Ganoderma species should be included in the preparation of extract of these fungi in order to obtain the most comprehensive active ingredients. To the best of the authors' knowledge, this is the first detailed comparison among the different parts of the fruiting bodies of Ganoderma.

Rubrisandrins A and B, lignans and related anti-HIV compounds from Schisandra rubriflora.

Site Editor — Thu, 01 Feb 2007 16:51:38 -0800

Rubrisandrins A and B, lignans and related anti-HIV compounds from Schisandra rubriflora.: J Nat Prod. 2006 Dec;69(12):1697-701 Authors: Chen M, Kilgore N, Lee KH, Chen DF

Bioactivity-directed fractionation of an ethanolic extract of the fruits of Schisandra rubriflora led to the isolation and identification of dibenzocyclooctadiene lignans including the new lignans rubrisandrins A (1a + 1b) and B (2) and the known lignans gomisin J (3), (+/-)-gomisin M1 (4), (+)-gomisin M2 (5), schisanhenol (6), deoxyschisandrin, schisantherin B, schisandrin, tigloylgomisin P, gomisin O, angeloylgomisin P, and epigomisin O. Their structure and stereochemistry were determined by spectroscopic methods, including 2D-NMR techniques. Compounds 1 and 3-6 were active as anti-HIV agents. (+/-)-Gomisin M1 (4) exhibited the most potent anti-HIV activity, with EC50 and therapeutic index (TI) values of <0.65 microM and >68, respectively.

Ashwagandhanolide, a bioactive dimeric thiowithanolide isolated from the roots of Withania somnifera.

Site Editor — Thu, 01 Feb 2007 16:50:42 -0800

Ashwagandhanolide, a bioactive dimeric thiowithanolide isolated from the roots of Withania somnifera.: J Nat Prod. 2006 Dec;69(12):1790-2 Authors: Subbaraju GV, Vanisree M, Rao CV, Sivaramakrishna C, Sridhar P, Jayaprakasam B, Nair MG

A new dimeric withanolide, ashwagandhanolide (1), was isolated from the roots of an Ayurvedic medicinal herb, Withania somnifera. A detailed spectroscopic evaluation revealed its identity as a dimer with an unusual thioether linkage. Compound 1 displayed growth inhibition against human gastric (AGS), breast (MCF-7), central nervous system (SF-268), colon (HCT-116), and lung (NCI H460) cancer cell lines, with IC50 values in the range 0.43-1.48 microg/mL. In addition, it inhibited lipid peroxidation and the activity of the enzyme cyclooxygenase-2 in vitro.

Taraxacum--a review on its phytochemical and pharmacological profile.

Site Editor — Thu, 01 Feb 2007 16:31:57 -0800

Taraxacum--a review on its phytochemical and pharmacological profile.: J Ethnopharmacol. 2006 Oct 11;107(3):313-23 Authors: Schütz K, Carle R, Schieber A

The genus Taraxacum is a member of the family Asteraceae, subfamily Cichorioideae, tribe Lactuceae and widely distributed in the warmer temperate zones of the Northern Hemisphere. The perennial weed has been known since ancient times for its curative properties and has been utilized for the treatment of various ailments such as dyspepsia, heartburn, spleen and liver complaints, hepatitis and anorexia. However, its use has mainly been based on empirical findings. This contribution provides a comprehensive review of the pharmacologically relevant compounds of Taraxacum characterized so far and of the studies supporting its use as a medicinal plant. Particular attention has been given to diuretic, choleretic, anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative, anti-carcinogenic, analgesic, anti-hyperglycemic, anti-coagulatory and prebiotic effects. Finally, research needs such as quantification of individual Taraxacum constituents and assessment of their pharmacological activities in humans have briefly been outlined.

Immunomodulatory activity of polysaccharide isolated from Angelica sinensis.

Site Editor — Wed, 17 Jan 2007 06:24:31 -0800

Immunomodulatory activity of polysaccharide isolated from Angelica sinensis.: Int J Biol Macromol. 2006 Nov 15;39(4-5):179-84 Authors: Yang T, Jia M, Meng J, Wu H, Mei Q

The immunomodulatory activities of an Angelica sinensis polysaccharide (AP), purified from the fresh root of A. sinensis Diels, were investigated in vitro in relation to the specificity to immune cells. AP consisted of rhamnose, arabinose, mannose, glucose, galactose with the molar ratio of 1.00:4.54:2.98:11.09:7.45. Cell proliferation results showed that proliferation of total spleen cells, macrophages and T cells were promoted by the action of AP. The treatment of AP increased the production of IL-2 and IFN-gamma, while that of IL-4 was decreased. RT-PCR analysis displayed that the IL-2 and IFN-gamma gene expression were enhanced but the IL-4 gene expression was decreased. Some differences in cytokines secretion pattern were also detected, the expression of IFN-gamma was rapidly augmented while that of IL-2 responded later. The flow cytometry results showed that the percentage of CD4(+)T cell in total spleen cells was remarkably increased by AP, while that of CD8(+)T cell was slightly decreased. In conclusion, AP has immunomodulatory activity by regulating expression of Th1 and Th2 related cytokines. The time-effect relation of cytokines response also suggests that macrophages and natural killer cells involved in nonspecific immunity were primary activated, and helper T cell were secondarily affected by AP.

Natural Products: From Structures to Mechanisms and Potential For Therapeutics

Site Editor — Mon, 08 Jan 2007 22:47:18 -0800

Natural Products: From Structures to Mechanisms and Potential For Therapeutics: Presented by: Carole Bewley, Ph.D., NIDDK

NIH Director's Seminars | Aired date: 2/17/2006 4:15:00 PM Eastern Time

An approach to the inheritance of the sesquiterpene chemotypes within Petasites hybridus.

Site Editor — Sat, 06 Jan 2007 18:59:20 -0800

An approach to the inheritance of the sesquiterpene chemotypes within Petasites hybridus.: Planta Med. 2006 Oct;72(13):1254-6 Authors: Chizzola R, Langer T, Franz C

Sesquiterpene esters are the active principle in the medicinal plant Petasites hybridus. Two chemotypes, the petasin chemotype and the furanopetasin chemotype, are known, but only the first one is suitable for pharmaceutical purposes. Experimental crossings were performed within and between plants of both chemotypes to study the genetic basis of the occurrence of these sesquiterpenes. The chemotype was determined by TLC in extracts of a small piece of rhizome in the parent plants and the progenies. A model including the combined action of two genes is proposed to explain the inheritance of the chemotypes where the furanopetasin chemotype is under recessive genetic control.

Bisandrographolide from Andrographis Paniculata activates TRPV4 channels.

Site Editor — Wed, 04 Oct 2006 18:16:15 -0700

Bisandrographolide from Andrographis Paniculata activates TRPV4 channels.: J Biol Chem. 2006 Aug 9; Smith PL, Maloney KN, Pothen RG, Clardy J, Clapham DE

Many transient receptor potential channels (TRP) are activated or blocked by various compounds found in plants; two prominent examples include the activation of TRPV1 channels by capsaicin and the activation of TRPM8 channels by menthol. We sought to identify additional plant compounds that are active on other types of TRP channels. We screened a library of extracts from fifty Chinese herbal plants using a calcium-imaging assay to find compounds active on TRPV3 and TRPV4 channels. An extract from the plant Andrographis paniculata potently activated TRPV4 channels. The extract was fractionated further, and the active compound was identified as bisandrographolide A (BAA). We used purified compound to characterize the activity of BAA on certain TRPV channel subtypes. Although BAA activated TRPV4 channels with an EC50 of 790-950 nM, it did not activate or block activation of TRPV1, TRPV2 or TRPV3 channels. BAA activated a large TRPV4-like current in immortalized mouse keratinocytes (308 cells) that have been shown to express TRPV4 protein endogenously. This compound also activated TRPV4 currents in cell-free outside-out patches from HEK293T cells overexpressing TRPV4 cDNA suggesting that BAA can activate the channel in a membrane delimited manner. Another related compound, andrographolide, found in abundance in the plant Andrographis was unable to activate or block activation of TRPV4 channels. These experiments show that BAA activates TRPV4 channels, and we discuss the possibility that activation of TRPV4 by BAA could play a role in some of the effects of Andrographis extract described in traditional medicine.

[Influence of processing rhubarb on it's anthraquinone contents]

Site Editor — Wed, 04 Oct 2006 16:41:46 -0700

[Influence of processing rhubarb on it's anthraquinone contents]:[Influence of processing rhubarb on it's anthraquinone contents] Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi. 2005 Jun;30(12):904-6, 943 Authors: Li XD, Huang LQ

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the influence of processing of Radix et Rhizoma Rhei on it's five anthraquinone components, and to develop a HPLC quantatitive method for these components in Radix et Rhizoma Rhei. METHOD: Chromatographic conditions are as follow: Kromasil-C18 (4.6 mmx 150 mm, 5 microm) column, ethanol -H2O-H3PO4 (85:15:0.1) as mobile phase and the detection wavelength at 254 nm. RESULT: The average recoveries are 97.9% (aleo-emodin), 97.1% (rhein), 97.6% (emodin), 97.4% (chrysophanol) and 99.1% (physcion). RSD are 1.4%, 1.1%, 0.9%, 1.1% and 2.2% correspondingly. After processing, the contents of five anthraquinone aglycones descended compared with the crude material, the descending percentage are 15.9% (aleo-emodin), 28.0% (rhein), 25.8% (emodin), 10.0% (chrysophanol) and 10.3% (physcion). CONCLUSION: This method is simple, sensitive and repeatable. It' canbeased for quality control of Radix et Rhizoma Rhei and it's processed products.

Improved quality control method for Danshen products-Consideration of both hydrophilic and lipophilic active components.

Site Editor — Fri, 09 Jun 2006 07:17:24 -0700

Improved quality control method for Danshen products-Consideration of both hydrophilic and lipophilic active components.: J Pharm Biomed Anal. 2006 Jan 31; Authors: Zhou L, Chow M, Zuo Z

The current study intends to provide an improved quality control analysis for Danshen product-a representative herbal product with known active components that are both hydrophilic and lipophilic in nature. A simple HPLC method with photodiode-array (PDA) ultraviolet detection was developed for the simultaneous determination of three major lipophilic components (cryptotanshinone, tanshinone I and tanshinone IIA) and three major hydrophilic components (danshensu, protocatechuic aldehyde and salvianolic acid B) of Danshen (Salvia miltiorrhiza). These six components were successfully separated using Radial-pak C18 cartridge with the elution gradient consisting of 0.5% acetic acid in water and 0.5% acetic acid in acetonitrile at a flow rate of 1ml/min. The intra-day and inter-day precisions of the analysis were within 2.32 and 2.0%, respectively. The detection limits were 0.02, 0.01, 0.01, 0.05, 0.005 and 0.02mug/ml for cryptotanshinone, tanshinone I, tanshinone IIA, danshensu, protocatechuic aldehyde and salvianolic acid B, respectively. The developed method has been applied to the simultaneous determination of above six major components in Fufang Danshen Tablet and Dripping Pill products by extraction with methanol and water. It has been demonstrated that salvianolic acid B and danshensu are the major components among the eight commercial Fufang Danshen products studied. The current developed method with methanol as extraction solvent provides a simple and efficient method for simultaneous detection of both lipophilic and hydrophilic major components in Danshen products.

Development and stability of semisolid preparations based on a supercritical CO(2) Arnica extract.

Site Editor — Fri, 09 Jun 2006 07:17:02 -0700

Development and stability of semisolid preparations based on a supercritical CO(2) Arnica extract.: J Pharm Biomed Anal. 2006 Jan 31; Authors: Bilia AR, Bergonzi MC, Mazzi G, Vincieri FF

Conventional herbal drug preparations (HDP) based on Arnica montana L. have a low content of the active principles, sesquiterpene lactones, which show poor stability and low physical compatibility in semisolid formulations. Recently, an innovative supercritical carbon dioxide (CO(2)) extract with high sesquiterpene content has been marketed. Development of six semisolid preparations (cetomacrogol, polysorbate 60, polawax, anphyphil, natrosol and sepigel) based on this innovative CO(2) extract is discussed. Stability of these preparations was investigated according to ICH guidelines. The evaluation of in vitro release of active constituents was performed using the cell method reported in the European Pharmacopoeia. Preliminary data on in vivo permeation of three selected formulations is demonstrated using the "skin stripping" test, according to the FDA, in healthy subjects. Analysis of sesquiterpene lactones within the extract and in vitro and in vivo studies was performed by RP-HPLC-DAD-MS method. The cetomacrogol showed the best release profile in the in vitro test, while in the in vivo test the best preparation resulted polysorbate 60 and polawax.

Isolation and characterization of yuremamine, a new phytoindole.

Site Editor — Fri, 09 Jun 2006 07:15:47 -0700

Isolation and characterization of yuremamine, a new phytoindole.: Planta Med. 2005 Nov;71(11):1053-7 Authors: Vepsäläinen JJ, Auriola S, Tukiainen M, Ropponen N, Callaway JC

Yuremamine was isolated and characterized from the stem bark of Mimosa tenuiflora. This plant is still used by indigenous peoples in North-eastern Brazil to make yurema, a psychoactive beverage that is used for medico-religious purpose ( jurema preta or vinho da jurema, in Portuguese). The characterization of this novel compound by NMR and mass spectrometry introduces a new class of phytoindoles.

Anti-HIV activity of dibenzylbutyrolactone-type lignans from Phenax species endemic in Costa Rica.

Site Editor — Fri, 09 Jun 2006 04:32:48 -0700

Anti-HIV activity of dibenzylbutyrolactone-type lignans from Phenax species endemic in Costa Rica.: J Pharm Pharmacol. 2005 Sep;57(9):1109-15 Authors: Piccinelli AL, Mahmood N, Mora G, Poveda L, De Simone F, Rastrelli L

Previously, we isolated two new dibenzylbutyrolactone-type lignans, named phenaxolactones and, from the leaves of Phenax angustifolius Wedd. (Urticaceae). In this investigation three new dibenzylbutyrolactone lignans (phenaxolactones), together with phenaxolactone, and flavones vitexin, isovitexin, were isolated from Phenax rugosus Wedd. leaves collected in Santa Ana, Costa Rica. The structures were elucidated using 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopy as well as mass spectrometry. Phenaxolactones and flavones and were evaluated for their inhibitory activity against HIV-1MN in infected C8166 cells. The most promising compound was phenaxolactone with an EC50 value of 3.0 microM, no cytotoxicity at 112 microM and a therapeutic index value of 37.3.