Synergistic immunostimulating activity of pidotimod and red ginseng acidic polysaccharide against cyclophosphamide-induced immunosuppression

Pidotimod plus recombinant human interferon α-2b suppository boosts HPV clearance in high-risk patients following loop electrosurgical excision procedure

OBJECTIVE

To assess human papillomavirus (HPV) negative conversion, vaginal microecological recovery, and serum inflammatory factor levels in patients with high-risk HPV infection treated with pidotimod (PDT) plus recombinant human interferon α-2b (rh-IFN-α2b) suppository after loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP).

METHODS

A total of 97 patients with high-risk HPV infection who underwent LEEP from March 2020 to May 2023 were retrospectively selected. Among these cases, 45 treated with rh-IFN-α2b suppository were assigned as control group, while the other 52 treated with PDT + rh-IFN-α2b suppository were assigned as combined group. HPV negative conversion, side effects (fever, nausea, abdominal discomfort, and vaginal burning sensation), vaginal microecology recovery (vaginal pH, Nugent score), and serum inflammatory markers (interleukin [IL]-4, IL-12, and interferon [IFN]-γ) were compared between the two groups. Furthermore, univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify factors associated with failure to achieve negative conversion.

RESULTS

The combined group demonstrated a higher HPV negative conversion rate, treatment response rate, and vaginal microecological recovery rate (lower vaginal pH and Nugent score) compared to the control group. Also, post-treatment IL-4 levels were lower, while IL-12 and IFN-γ were higher in the combined group. The side effects in the two groups were similar. Univariate and multivariate analyses revealed that HPV type and treatment modality were associated with HPV negative conversion failure, but were not independent predictors.

CONCLUSIONS

PDT plus rh-IFN-α2b suppository can effectively improve HPV negative conversion, accelerate vaginal microecology recovery, and modulate serum inflammatory responses in high-risk HPV patients after LEEP.

Protopanaxadiol-Enriched Rice Extracts Suppressed Oxidative and Melanogenic Activities in Melan-a Cells

Concerns about hyperpigmentation and skin appearance have led to increasing research into the prevention and altering of skin pigmentation. Natural compounds may be of interest in the search for skin-lightening actives. Protopanaxadiol (PPD), a gut microbiome-induced ginseng metabolite, has been reported to have anti-melanogenic effects. This study aimed to evaluate the antioxidative and anti-melanogenic effects of PPD-enriched rice seed extracts on melan-a cells. The antioxidant and cytotoxicity activities of the extracts were investigated in melan-a cells before measuring their responses to melanogenic activities. The extracts significantly enhanced the antioxidant potency compared with normal rice seed extract. PPD-enriched rice seed extracts (i) significantly downregulated microphthalmia-associated transcription factor, which led to a reduction in tyrosinase and tyrosinase-related protein-1 and -2, (ii) decrease in the cellular tyrosinase activity and melanin content, (iii) reduction in the number of melanin-containing cells, (iv) promotion of melanogenesis downregulators, phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 and protein kinase B, and (v) downregulation of the phosphorylated p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase and melanin synthesis. These results indicate the feasibility of PPD-enriched rice seed extracts as a novel agent for suppressing melanogenesis and controlling hyperpigmentation.

A Panax quinquefolius-Based Preparation Prevents the Impact of 5-FU on Activity/Exploration Behaviors and Not on Cognitive Functions Mitigating Gut Microbiota and Inflammation in Mice

Simple Summary

Chemotherapy-related cognitive impairment (CRCI) and fatigue worsen the quality of life (QoL) of cancer patients. Multicenter studies have shown that Panax quinquefolius and vitamin C, respectively, were effective in reducing the symptoms of fatigue in treated cancer patients. We developed a behavioral C57Bl/6j mouse model to study the impact of 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) chemotherapy on activity/fatigue, emotional reactivity and cognitive functions. We used this model to evaluate the potentially beneficial role of a Panax quinquefolius-based solution containing vitamin C (Qiseng^®) or vitamin C alone in these chemotherapy side effects. We established that Qiseng^® prevents the reduction in activity/exploration and symptoms of fatigue induced by 5-FU and dampens chemotherapy-induced intestinal dysbiosis and systemic inflammation. We further showed that Qiseng^® decreases macrophage infiltration in the intestinal compartment, thus preventing, at least in part, the systemic elevation of IL-6 and MCP-1 and further reducing the neuroinflammation likely responsible for the fatigue induced by chemotherapy, a major advance toward improving the QoL of patients.

Abstract

Chemotherapy-related cognitive impairment (CRCI) and fatigue constitute common complaints among cancer patient survivors. Panax quinquefolius has been shown to be effective against fatigue in treated cancer patients. We developed a behavioral C57Bl/6j mouse model to study the role of a Panax quinquefolius-based solution containing vitamin C (Qiseng^®) or vitamin C alone in activity/fatigue, emotional reactivity and cognitive functions impacted by 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) chemotherapy. 5-FU significantly reduces the locomotor/exploration activity potentially associated with fatigue, evokes spatial cognitive impairments and leads to a decreased neurogenesis within the hippocampus (Hp). Qiseng^® fully prevents the impact of chemotherapy on activity/fatigue and on neurogenesis, specifically in the ventral Hp. We observed that the chemotherapy treatment induces intestinal damage and inflammation associated with increased levels of Lactobacilli in mouse gut microbiota and increased expression of plasma pro-inflammatory cytokines, notably IL-6 and MCP-1. We demonstrated that Qiseng^® prevents the 5-FU-induced increase in Lactobacilli levels and further compensates the 5-FU-induced cytokine release. Concomitantly, in the brains of 5-FU-treated mice, Qiseng^® partially attenuates the IL-6 receptor gp130 expression associated with a decreased proliferation of neural stem cells in the Hp. In conclusion, Qiseng^® prevents the symptoms of fatigue, reduced chemotherapy-induced neuroinflammation and altered neurogenesis, while regulating the mouse gut microbiota composition, thus protecting against intestinal and systemic inflammation.

Immune-Enhancing Effects of Crude Polysaccharides from Korean Ginseng Berries on Spleens of Mice with Cyclophosphamide-Induced Immunosuppression

Panax ginseng C. A. Meyer is well known as traditional herbal medicine, and ginseng berries are known to exhibit potential immune-enhancing functions. However, little is known about the in vivo immunomodulatory activity of Korean ginseng berries. In this study, crude Korean ginseng berries polysaccharides (GBP) were isolated and their immunomodulatory activities were investigated using cyclophosphamide (CY)-induced immunosuppressive BALB/c mice. In CY-treated mice, oral administration of GBP (50-500 mg/kg BW) remarkably increased their spleen sizes and spleen indices and activated NK cell activities. GBP also resulted in the proliferation of splenic lymphocytes (coordinating with ConA: plant mitogen which is known to stimulate T-cell or LPS: endotoxin which binds receptor complex in B cells to promote the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines) in a dose-dependent manner. In addition, GBP significantly stimulated mRNA expression levels of immune-associated genes including interleukin-1β (IL-1β), IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interferon-γ (IFN-γ), toll-like receptor 4 (TLR-4), and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) in CY-treated mice. These results indicate that GBP is involved in immune effects against CY-induced immunosuppression. Thus, GBP could be developed as an immunomodulation agent for medicinal or functional food application.

The immunomodulatory effects of Carapax Trionycis ultrafine powder on cyclophosphamide-induced immunosuppression in Balb/c mice

BACKGROUND

There are abundant resources of Carapax Trionycis from soft-shelled turtle processing wastes each year in China. Our preliminary work showed that Carapax Trionycis ultrafine powder (CTUP) obtained using ball-milling with a particle size of 2.24 μm (D0.025) contained more active ingredients. The CTUP D0.025 has a good bioaccessibility, but there has been no report about the immunomodulatory function of CTUP. Therefore, using a cyclophosphamide-induced immunosuppression mice model, we investigated the immunomodulatory effects of CTUP D0.025.

RESULTS

The results indicated that CTUP D0.025 administration significantly improved the immune organ (bone marrow, thymus and spleen) indices, ameliorated spleen tissue morphology and increased the capacity of splenocyte proliferation and the activity of macrophage phagocytosis. CTUP D0.025 also significantly promoted the secretion of cytokines (IL-2, IL-4, IL-10, IFN-γ and TNF-α), improved the related mRNA expression levels of IL2, IFN-γ, T-bet and GATA3 in immunosuppressed mice and increased the production of serum hemolysin and the levels of IgG, IgM as well as complement C₃ . Moreover, CTUP D0.025 administration enhanced the antioxidant capacity of mice, exhibited a moderating effect on the damage of bone and skeletal muscle and improved the recovery of bone mineral density and calcium metabolism.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings demonstrated that CTUP D0.025 had an effective immune-enhancing function in immunosuppressive Balb/c mice and also exhibited anti-osteoporosis properties. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry.

Recent progress in polysaccharides from Panax ginseng C. A. Meyer

Panax ginseng C. A. Meyer (P. ginseng) has a long history of medicinal use and can treat a variety of diseases. P. ginseng contains a variety of active ingredients, such as saponins, polypeptides, volatile oils, and polysaccharides. Among them, saponins have always been considered as the main components responsible for its pharmacological activities. However, more and more studies have shown that polysaccharides play an indispensable role in the medicinal value of ginseng. Modern biological and medical studies have found that ginseng polysaccharides have complex structural characteristics and diverse biological activities, such as immune regulation, anti-tumor, antioxidant, hypoglycemic, and anti-radiation functions, among others. Additionally, the structural characteristics of ginseng polysaccharides are closely related to their activity. In this review, the research background, extraction, purification, structural characteristics, and biological activities of ginseng polysaccharides from different parts of P. ginseng (roots, flowers stems and leaves, and berries) under different growth conditions (artificially cultivated ginseng, mountain ginseng, and wild ginseng) are summarized. The structural characteristics of purified polysaccharides were reviewed. Meanwhile, their biological activities were introduced, and some possible mechanisms were listed. Furthermore, the structure-activity relationship of polysaccharides was discussed. Some research perspectives for the study of ginseng polysaccharides were also provided.

Immuno-enhancement effects of Korean Red Ginseng in healthy adults: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial

Background

Most clinical studies of immune responses activated by Korean Red Ginseng (KRG) have been conducted exclusively in patients. However, there is still a lack of clinical research on immune-boosting benefits of KRG for healthy persons. This study aims to confirm how KRG boosts the immune system of healthy subjects.

Methods

A total of 100 healthy adult subjects were randomly divided into two groups that took either a 2 g KRG tablet or a placebo per day for 8 weeks. The primary efficacy evaluation variables included changes in T cells, B cells, and white blood cells (WBCs) before and after eight weeks of KRG ingestion. Cytokines (TNF-α, INF-γ, IL-2 and IL-4), WBC differential count, and incidence of colds were measured in the secondary efficacy evaluation variables. Safety evaluation variables were used to identify changes in laboratory test results that incorporated adverse reactions, vital signs, hematological tests, blood chemistry tests, and urinalysis.

Results

Compared to the placebo group, the KRG intake group showed a significant increase in the number of T cells (CD3) and its subtypes (CD4 and CD8), B cells, and the WBC count before and after eight weeks of the intake. There were no clinically significant adverse reactions or other notable results in the safety evaluation factors observed.

Conclusion

This study has proven through its eight-week intake test and subsequent analysis that KRG boosts the immune system through an increase in T cells, B cells, and WBCs, and that it is safe according to the study's safety evaluation.

Physiological and pharmacological features of the non-saponin components in Korean Red Ginseng

Panax ginseng, a medicinal plant, has been used as a blood-nourishing tonic for thousands of years in Asia, including Korea and China. P. ginseng exhibits adaptogen activity that maintains homeostasis by restoring general biological functions and non-specifically enhancing the body's resistance to external stress. Several P. ginseng effects have been reported. Korean Red Ginseng, in particular, has been reported in both basic and clinical studies to possess diverse effects such as enhanced immunity, fatigue relief, memory, blood circulation, and anti-oxidation. Moreover, it also protects against menopausal symptoms, cancer, cardiac diseases, and neurological disorders. The active components found in most Korean Red Ginseng varieties are known to include ginsenosides, polysaccharides, peptides, alkaloids, polyacetylene, and phenolic compounds. In this review, the identity and bioactivity of the non-saponin components of Korean Red Ginseng discovered to date are evaluated and the components are classified into polysaccharide and nitrogen compounds (protein, peptide, amino acid, nucleic acid, and alkaloid), as well as fat-soluble components such as polyacetylene, phenols, essential oils, and phytosterols. The distinct bioactivity of Korean Red Ginseng was found to originate from both saponin and non-saponin components rather than from only one or two specific components. Therefore, it is important to consider saponin and non-saponin elements together.

Effects of ginseng supplementation on selected markers of inflammation: A systematic review and meta-analysis

The present meta-analysis was performed to evaluate the efficacy of ginseng administration on serum level of inflammatory biomarkers. We performed a systematic search of all available randomized controlled trials (RCTs) conducted up to June 2018 in the following electronic databases: PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane, and Google Scholar. RCTs that investigated the effect ginseng supplementation on high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and interleukin-6 (IL-6) were included for final analysis. A total of seven RCTs were included in the meta-analysis. Results indicated significant reduction in IL-6 (mean difference [MD]: -0.265 pg/ml, 95% CI [-0.396, -0.135], p < .001) and TNF-α (MD: -2.471 pg/ml, 95% CI [-2.904, -2.039], p < .001) and no significant change in hs-CRP (MD: -0.125 mg/L, 95% CI [-0.597, 0.347], p = .604). Although there was publication bias across studies, trim and fill analysis showed that results from unpublished studies could not change the results for CRP. However, removing one study in sensitivity analysis did reveal a significant reduction in CRP. We conclude that ginseng supplementation significantly lowered IL-6 and TNF-α but did not significantly lower CRP. However, these findings were not robust, because they showed sensitivity for CRP and IL-6, and future long-term well-designed dose-escalating trials are required.

Structural characteristics of a red ginseng acidic polysaccharide rhamnogalacturonan I with immunostimulating activity from red ginseng

Background

Many researchers reported that the various immune activities of red ginseng are due to acid polysaccharides. But, the exact structural characteristics of the acidic polysaccharide in red ginseng have not been fully elucidated. Therefore, we isolated the acidic polysaccharide from red ginseng and characterized the structural property of the active moiety of this polysaccharide, which contributes to the immunostimulatory activity of red ginseng.

Methods

A polysaccharide (RGP-AP-I) was purified from red ginseng via size-exclusion chromatography using Sephadex G-100. Immunostimulatary activity of RGP-AP-I was investigated via anti-complementory and macrophage stimulatory activity. The structure of RGP-AP-I was characterized by HPLC, sugar composition, β-glucosyl Yariv reagent and methylation analysis.

Results

Peritoneal macrophages stimulated using RGP-AP-I significantly augmented the production of various cytokines such as interleukin (IL)-6, IL-12, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α. The primary structure of RGP-AP-I was elucidated by assessing its sugar composition and methylation analysis. RGP-AP-I is a 96 kDa acidic polysaccharide, and comprises nine different monosaccharides, which mainly include sugars such as rhamnose (Rha, 9.5%), galacturonic acid (GalA, 18.4%), galactose (Gal, 30.4%), and arabinose (Ara, 35.0%). RGP-AP-I exhibited an considerable reaction with the β-glucosyl Yariv reagent, revealing the presence of arabino-β-3,6-galactan. Methylation analysis indicated that RGP-AP-I comprises 21 different glycosyl linkages, such as 3-, 4-, 6- and 3,6-linked Galp; 5-linked Araf; 2,4-linked Rhap; and 4-linked GalAp, which are characteristics of rhamnogalacturonan I (RG-I).

Conclusion

we assumed that the immunostimulatory activity of RGP-AP-I may be due to the RG-I structure, which comprises a main chain with a repeating linkage unit, [→2)-Rhap-(1→4)-GalAp-(1→] and three groups of side chains such as (1→5)-linked arabinan, (1→4)-linked galactan, and arabino-β-3,6-galactan, which branch at the C(O)4 positions of Rha residues in the main chain of RGP-AP-I.

Ginseng oligopeptides protect against irradiation-induced immune dysfunction and intestinal injury

Intestinal injury and immune dysfunction are commonly encountered after irradiation therapy. While the curative abilities of ginseng root have been reported in prior studies, there is little known regarding its role in immunoregulation of intestinal repairability in cancer patients treated with irradiation. Our current study aims to closely examine the protective effects of ginseng-derived small molecule oligopeptides (Panax ginseng C. A. Mey.) (GOP) against irradiation-induced immune dysfunction and subsequent intestinal injury, using in vitro and in vivo models. Expectedly, irradiation treatment resulted in increased intestinal permeability along with mucosal injury in both Caco-2 cells and mice, probably due to disruption of the intestinal epithelial barrier, leading to high plasma lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and pro-inflammatory cytokines levels. However, when the cells were treated with GOP, this led to diminished concentration of plasma LPS and cytokines (IL-1 and TNF-α), suggesting its dampening effect on inflammatory and oxidative stress, and potential role in restoring normal baseline intestinal permeability. Moreover, the Caco-2 cells treated with GOP showed high trans-epithelial electrical resistance (TEER) and low FITC-dextran paracellular permeability when compared to the control group. This could be explained by the higher levels of tight junction proteins (ZO-1 and Occludin) expression along with reduced expression of the apoptosis-related proteins (Bax and Caspase-3) noticed in the GOP-treated cells, highlighting its role in preserving intestinal permeability, through prevention of their degradation while maintaining normal levels of expression. Further confirmatory in vivo data showed that GOP-treated mice exhibited high concentrations of lymphocytes (CD3+, CD4+, CD8+) in the intestine, to rescue the irradiation-induced damage and restore baseline intestinal integrity. Therefore, we propose that GOP can be used as an adjuvant therapy to attenuate irradiation-induced immune dysfunction and intestinal injury in cancer patients.

A Comparison of the Immunostimulatory Effects of Polysaccharides from Tetraploid and Diploid Echinacea purpurea

Polyploidization is an effective means of improving the active components and quality of secondary metabolism in medicinal plants. In the present study, we compared the immunostimulatory effects of crude polysaccharides from tetraploid and diploid Echinacea purpurea. The results showed that the carbohydrate contents of crude polysaccharide of tetraploid E. purpurea (CPE4) and diploid E. purpurea (CPE2) were 85.51% and 44.65%, respectively. 1H-nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy and gel-permeation chromatography (GPC) analyses showed no major differences in the overall structure and molecular weight of polysaccharides between CPE4 and CPE2. However, some differences in the relative content of the same polysaccharides group were observed between CPE4 and CPE2. In in vitro tests, EP4 could stimulate lymphocyte proliferation and secretion of cytokines maximally at the concentration of 0.0312 mg/mL, and EP2 could stimulate lymphocyte proliferation and secretion of cytokines maximally at the concentration of 0.125 mg/mL. In in vivo tests, EP4 was more effective at promoting the proliferation of lymphocytes and secretion of cytokines in mice immunosuppressed by cyclophosphamide than EP2 at the same concentration. Taken together, these data demonstrated that the relative content of the partial polysaccharides group is increased, and the immunoregulatory effect is enhanced in tetraploid E. purpurea.

Immunomodulatory Effects of Kuseonwangdogo-Based Mixed Herbal Formula Extracts on a Cyclophosphamide-Induced Immunosuppression Mouse Model

Aim

Kuseonwangdogo is a traditional Korean immunomodulatory polyherbal prescription. However, there are no systemic findings on its complex immunomodulatory effects on in vivo models. In this study, we observed the immunomodulatory effects of Kuseonwangdogo-based mixed herbal formula aqueous extracts (MHFe) on cyclophosphamide- (CPA-) induced immunosuppression mouse model.

Methods

In total, 60 male 6-week-old ICR mice (10 mice/group) were selected based on body weight 24 h after the second CPA treatment and used in this experiment. Twelve hours after the end of the last (fourth) oral administration of MHFe, the animals were sacrificed.

Results

Following CPA treatment, a noticeable decrease in the body, thymus, spleen, and submandibular lymph node (LN) weights; white blood cell, red blood cell, platelet number, hemoglobin, and hematocrit concentrations; serum interferon-γ levels; splenic tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin- (IL-) 1β, and IL-10 content; and peritoneal and splenic natural killer cell activities was observed. Depletion of lymphoid cells in the thymic cortex, splenic white pulp, and submandibular LN-related atrophic changes were also observed. However, these CPA-induced myelosuppressive signs were markedly and dose-dependently inhibited by the oral administration of 125, 250, and 500 mg/kg MHFe.

Conclusion

MHFe can be a promising, potent immunomodulatory therapeutic agent for various immune disorders.

Immune-enhancing activity of C. militaris fermented with Pediococcus pentosaceus (GRC-ON89A) in CY-induced immunosuppressed model

Background

Cordyceps militaris (C. militaris) is reported to exert various immune-activities. To enhance its activity, we fermented C.militaris with Pediococcus pentosaceus ON89A (GRC-ON89A). In this study, we investigated the immune-enhancing activity GRC-ON89A, using immunosuppressed model.

Methods

Immunosuppression was induced by intraperitoneal injection of cyclophosphamide (CY). Each group was orally administered distilled water, GRC-ON89A or GRC, respectively. The phagocytic activities against IgG -opsonized FITC particles were measured using phagocytosis assay kit. The contents β-glucan, cordycepin and SCFA were measured using β-glucan kit, liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis and Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis, respectively.

Results

Among GRC fermented with different probiotic strains (Pediococcus pentossaceus ON89A, Lactobacillus pentosus SC64, Weissella cibaria Sal.Cla22), GRC-ON89A induced the highest elevation of nitric oxide production and enhanced phagocytic activity of RAW 264.7 cells. In primary cultured murine macrophages from normal and CY-treated mice, GRC-ON89A increased phagocytic activity, compared to that in control cells. GRC-ON89A also significantly induced the mRNA expression of TNF-α and IL-10 and the levels of phosphorylated Lyn, Syk and MAPK. The contents of β-glucan, cordycepin and SCFA in GRC significantly increased after ON89A fermentation, compared to those in unfermented GRC.

Conclusion

These results indicate that GRC-ON89A exerted the enhanced immunostimulatory activity and contained more nutritional components, compared to unfermented GRC. Our results suggested that GRC-ON89A may be applied as an agent for immune boosting therapy in immune suppressed patients.

Immunoenhancement of Edible Fungal Polysaccharides (Lentinan, Tremellan, and Pachymaran) on Cyclophosphamide-Induced Immunosuppression in Mouse Model

Fungal polysaccharides display a variety of important biological activities, including anti-inflammatory, antitumor, and immune-stimulating activities. The aim of present study was to investigate the immunomodulatory effect of fungal polysaccharides on cyclophosphamide-induced immunosuppression in mice. Mice were pretreated orally with lentinan, tremellan, pachymaran, or a mixture of the three, respectively. The results showed that pretreatments with polysaccharides significantly increased the thymus index in cyclophosphamide-induced immunosuppression mice. The level of the cytokine IL-10 in sera of cyclophosphamide-induced mice was decreased after pretreatments of polysaccharides. Flow cytometry results showed that pretreatments with polysaccharides enhanced the phagocytosis of peritoneal macrophages in mice. The increased levels of serum antibody IgG and IgM were observed in the groups pretreated with polysaccharides. Our work demonstrated that the treatment of polysaccharides elicited strong immune activity and a protective effect against cyclophosphamide-induced immunosuppression.

Ginseng (Panax ginseng Meyer) oligopeptides regulate innate and adaptive immune responses in mice via increased macrophage phagocytosis capacity, NK cell activity and Th cells secretion

Traditionally used as a restorative medicine, ginseng (Panax ginseng Meyer) has been the most widely used and acclaimed herb in Chinese communities for thousands of years. To investigate the immune-modulating activity of ginseng oligopeptides (GOP), 420 healthy female BALB/c mice were intragastrically administered distilled water (control), whey protein (0.15 g per kg body weight (BW)), and GOP 0.0375, 0.075, 0.15, 0.3 and 0.6 g per kg BW for 30 days. Blood samples from mice were collected from the ophthalmic venous plexus and then sacrificed by cervical dislocation. Seven assays were conducted to determine the immunomodulatory effects of GOP on innate and adaptive immune responses, followed by flow cytometry to investigate spleen T lymphocyte sub-populations, multiplex sandwich immunoassays to investigate serum cytokine and immunoglobulin levels, and ELISA to investigate intestinally secreted immunoglobulin to study the mechanism of GOP affecting the immune system. Our results showed that GOP was able to enhance innate and adaptive immune responses in mice by improving cell-mediated and humoral immunity, macrophage phagocytosis capacity and NK cell activity. Notably, the use of GOP revealed a better immune-modulating activity compared to whey protein. We conclude that the immune-modulating activity might be due to the increased macrophage phagocytosis capacity and NK cell activity, and the enhancement of T and Th cells, as well as IL-2, IL-6 and IL-12 secretion and IgA, IgG1 and IgG2b production. These results indicate that GOP could be considered a good candidate that may improve immune functions if used as a dietary supplement, with a dosage that ranges from 0.3 to 0.6 g per kg BW.

Ginseng for Liver Injury: Friend or Foe?

Panax sp., including Panax ginseng Meyer, Panax quiquifolius L., or Panax notoginseng (Burk.) FH Chen, have been used as functional foods or for traditional Chinese medicine for diabetes, inflammation, stress, aging, hepatic injury, and cancer. In recent decades, a number of both in vitro and in vivo experiments as well as human studies have been conducted to investigate the efficacy and safety of various types of ginseng samples and their components. Of these, the hepatoprotective and hepatotoxic effects of ginseng and their ginsenosides and polysaccharides are reviewed and summarized.

Suppression of TNF-α and free radicals reduces systematic inflammatory and metabolic disorders: Radioprotective effects of ginseng oligopeptides on intestinal barrier function and antioxidant defense

Irradiation therapy is markedly associated with intestinal injure and oxidant stress. This study aimed to investigate the effects of ginseng (Panax ginseng C.A. Mey.) oligopeptides (GOP) on irradiation-induced intestinal injury and antioxidant defense in mice. BALB/c mice (8 weeks old) were randomly divided into six groups: vehicle control, irradiation control (IR), IR+whey protein [0.30 g/kg body weight (BW)], IR+GOP 0.15 g/kg BW, IR+GOP 0.30 g/kg BW and IR+GOP 0.60 g/kg BW. Postirradiation 30-day survival trial, white blood cells count and bone marrow hematopoietic system damage were performed to identify the injury degree induced by irradiation. Then, histopathology analysis was observed and intestinal permeability in vivo was quantified with fluorescein isothiocyanate-dextran. The enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was used to determine antioxidant ability, plasma inflammatory cytokines, diamine oxidase (DAO) and endotoxin (LPS) levels. The immunohistochemistry assay was used to analyze the expression levels of tight junction proteins. We found that GOP-treated mice exhibited lower concentrations of plasma LPS and DAO and decreased instructors of inflammatory and oxidative stress which were linked to the lower intestinal permeability and higher tight junction proteins expression. The blockage of GOP was linked with the reduction of TNF-α and free radicals. The 15-day pretreatment of GOP could exhibit radioprotective effects, and another 15-day posttreatment benefited the quick repair of irradiation-induced injury. We confirm that GOP would exhibit effective therapeutic value on attenuating irradiation-induced hematopoietic, gastrointestinal and oxidative injury in cancer patients.

Effect of ginseng polysaccharides on the immunity and growth of piglets by dietary supplementation during late pregnancy and lactating sows

There are many reports that dietary supplementation with plant polysaccharides in pigs might promote their growth, but little is known about the maternal effect of ginseng polysaccharides (GPS) on piglets' growth by dietary supplementation to pregnant and lactating sows. In the current study, the effects of dietary supplementation with GPS on the immunity of sows and growth of their piglets were investigated. Results showed no significant difference among the four groups in the total number of piglets, live piglets, weak piglets and birth weight of piglets, indicating the GPS-treatment has no adverse effect on reproduction. Furthermore, the weaning weight of the GPS-treated groups was higher than that of control group (P < 0.05); among them, the addition of 200 mg/kg dose has the best effect. Interestingly, GPS increased the total immunoglobulin G concentration in milk and serum of sows (P < 0.05). The concentrations of interleukin (IL)-2, IL-6, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, and interferon-γ in milk and serum of sows were also increased in the experimental groups relative to the control (P < 0.05). Meanwhile, maternal supplementation of GPS significantly increased IL-2 and TNF-α concentration in the piglets' serum of the experimental groups relative to control (P < 0.05). GPS (200 mg/kg) significantly increased the glutathione peroxidase activity in milk and serum (P < 0.05), while the concentrations of malondialdehyde were significantly reduced (P < 0.05). The present results indicated that GPS supplementation during late pregnancy and lactation improved immunity-related bio-molecular levels in sow serum and milk, which may be further beneficial to piglet health and growth through biological transmission effects.

Isolation, purification, characterization and immunostimulatory activity of polysaccharides derived from American ginseng

In this study, crude American ginseng polysaccharide (AGPS) was extracted with hot water and preliminarily purified by using resin S-8 and Polyamide columns. Then, it was further purified and separated by DEAE-Sepharose CL-6B and Sepharose CL-6B chromatography, respectively. Five main fractions were obtained, named WPS-1, WPS-2, SPS-1, SPS-2 and SPS-3. Their homogeneities and structural characteristics were elucidated based on UV-vis spectroscopy, High Performance Gel Filtration Chromatography (HPGFC), Gas Chromatography (GC), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Infrared Spectrum (IR), and NMR Spectroscopy methods. Furthermore, the immunostimulatory effects of these fractions upon splenic lymphocyte proliferation, macrophage phagocytosis and nitric oxide (NO) production, were investigated in vitro. The results indicated that their stimulations could be ordered as SPS-3>SPS-1>CPS (crude polysaccharides)>WPS-1>WPS-2>SPS-2. Among them, SPS-3 showed more potent immunomodulatory activity and could be explored as a potential immunopotentiating agent for use in functional food or medicine.

Ameliorating Effect of Ginseng on Epididymo-Orchitis Inducing Alterations in Sperm Quality and Spermatogenic Cells Apoptosis following Infection by Uropathogenic Escherichia coli in Rats

Objective

Epididymo-orchitis (EO) potentially results in reduced fertility in up to 60% of affected patients. The anti-inflammatory effects of Korean red ginseng (KRG) and its ability to act as an immunoenhancer in parallel with the beneficial effects of this ancient herbal medicine on the reproductive systems of animals and humans led us to evaluate its protective effects against acute EO.

Materials and Methods

This animal experimental study was conducted in the Department of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences (ZUMS), Zanjan, Iran during 2013-2015. We divided 50 Wistar rats into five following groups (n=10 per group): i. Control-intact animals, ii. Vehicle-phosphate buffered saline (PBS) injection into the vas deferens, iii. KRG-an intraperitoneal (IP) injection of KRG, iv. EO-an injection of uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) strain M39 into the vas defer- ens, and v. EO/ KRG-injections of both UPEC strain M39 and KRG. The treatment lasted seven days. We then evaluated sperm parameters, number of germ cell layers, Johnson’s criteria, germ cell apoptosis, body weight and relative sex organs weight.

Results

Acute EO increased the relative weight of prostate and seminal vesicles (P≤0.05). It also reduced sperm quality such as total motility, sperm concentration (P≤0.01), and the percentage of normal sperm (P≤0.001). Moreover, acute EO decreased Miller’s (P≤0.05) and Johnsen’s scores and increased apoptotic indexes of spermatogenic cells (P≤0.001). KRG treatment decreased prostate weight gain (P≤0.05) and improved the percentage of sperm with normal morphology, total motility (P≤0.01), and progressive motility (P≤0.05). The apoptotic indexes of spermatogenic cells reduced (P≤0.001), whereas both Johnsen’s (P≤0.01) and Miller’s criteria increased in the KRG-treated EO testis (P≤0.05).

Conclusion

Consequently, KRG ameliorated the devastating effects of EO on the sperm retrieved from either epididymis or testicle in rats.

Korean Red Ginseng water extract arrests growth of xenografted lymphoma cells

Background

Although numerous studies of the anticancer activities of Korean Red Ginseng (KRG) have been performed, the therapeutic effect of KRG on leukemia has not been fully elucidated. In this study, we investigated the antileukemia activities of KRG and its cellular and molecular mechanisms.

Methods

An established leukemia tumor model induced by xenografted T cell lymphoma (RMA cells) was used to test the therapeutic activity of KRG water extract (KRG-WE). Direct cytotoxic activity of KRG-WE was confirmed by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay. The immunomodulatory activities of KRG-WE were verified by immunohistochemistry, nitric oxide production assay. The inhibitory effect of KRG-WE on cell survival signaling was also examined.

Results

Orally administered KRG-WE reduced the sizes of tumor masses. Levels of apoptosis regulatory enzymes and cleaved forms of caspases-3 and -8 were increased by this extract. In addition, expression of matrix metalloproteinase-9, a metastasis regulatory enzyme, was decreased by KRG-WE treatment. The proportion of CD11c+ cells was remarkably increased in the KRG-treated group compared to the control group. However, KRG-WE did not show significant direct cytotoxicity against RMA cells.

Conclusion

Our results strongly suggest that the KRG might have antileukemia activity through CD11c+ cell-mediated antitumor immunity.

Polysaccharides from Rhizoma Panacis Majoris and its anti-oxidant activity

Response surface method (RSM) was employed to optimize the extraction conditions of polysaccharides from Rhizoma Panacis Majoris (the rhizomes of Panax japonicus C. A. Mey. var. major (Burk.) C. Y. Wu et K. M. Feng) (RPMP), a well-known Chinese traditional medicine. In order to obtain the optimal processing parameters, a three-variable Box-Behnken designs (BBD) were applied for experimental designs. RSM analysis indicated the good correspondence between experimental and predicted values, the optimal conditions for the yield of polysaccharides were as follows: the ultrasound time is 31.15 min, extraction temperature is 92.50 °C, and the ratio of water to raw material is 40 mL/g. The maximum value (13.87 ± 0.16%) of the yield of polysaccharides was obtained under these optimal conditions. The molecular weight (MW) was determined to be 1.48 × 10(5)(±0.39%)Da by HPSEC-MALLS-RID chromatography system. FT-IR spectra demonstrated obvious characteristic peaks of polysaccharides. The antioxidant activities of RPMP were investigated including scavenging activity of hydrogen radicals, ABTS radicals, and free radicals of superoxide anion in vitro, and the results exhibited that RPMP had a good potential for antioxidant.

Interferon-γ-Mediated Natural Killer Cell Activation by an Aqueous Panax ginseng Extract

Panax ginseng extracts are used in traditional herbal medicines, particularly in eastern Asia, but their effect on natural killer (NK) cell activity is not completely understood. This study aimed to examine the effects of P. ginseng extracts on the cytotoxic activity of NK cells. We orally administered P. ginseng extracts or ginsenosides to wild-type (WT) C57BL/6 (B6) and BALB/c mice and to B6 mice deficient in either recombination activating gene 2 (RAG-2) or interferon-γ (IFN-γ). We then tested the cytotoxic activity of NK cells (of spleen and liver mononuclear cells) against NK-sensitive YAC-1 cells. Oral administration of P. ginseng aqueous extract augmented the cytotoxicity of NK cells in WT B6 and BALB/c mice and in RAG-2-deficient B6 mice, but not in IFN-γ-deficient B6 mice. This effect was only observed with the aqueous extract of P. ginseng. Interestingly, the ginsenosides Rb1 and Rg1 did not augment NK cell cytotoxicity. These results demonstrated that the aqueous P. ginseng extract augmented NK cell activation in vivo via an IFN-γ-dependent pathway.

Streptococcal infection and immune response in children with Tourette's syndrome

BACKGROUND

Streptococcal infection and basal ganglia inflammation are hypothesized to be involved in Tourette's syndrome (TS). There is a need for effective therapies for managing TS. We studied streptococcal infection and immunity in TS following immunomodulator (pidotimod) therapy.

METHODS

Blood samples from 58 patients with TS and 128 age-matched healthy controls enabled measurement of antistreptolysin O (ASO), T cells, natural killer (NK) cells, interleukin-6 (IL-6) and interleukin-8 (IL-8), and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α). Forty-four patients with abnormal T cell numbers were divided into two groups and treated with pidotimod granules (pidotimod group, n = 20) or pidotimod plus dopaminergic receptor antagonists (combination group, n = 24). Yale Global Tic Severity Scale (YGTSS) scores and immunologic indices were assessed after treatment.

RESULTS

An ASO >1:200 was found in 22.4% of children with TS, 7.5% of controls, and 38.9% of children with both TS and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) compared to 15.0% of children with TS alone (P < 0.05). Children with TS showed decreased CD3(+) and CD4(+) T cells, CD4(+)/CD8(+) ratio, IL-6 and IL-8, increased NKC and TNF-α (P < 0.05) as compared to controls. ASO-positive children with TS had lower CD4(+) T cells as compared to ASO-negative children with TS, and lower IL-6 and IL-8 levels as compared to controls (P < 0.05). After 8 weeks of pidotimod treatment, IL-8 was increased compared to either tiapride hydrochloride or haloperidol and pidotimod (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Streptococcal infection in TS patients is associated with immune and cytokine dysfunction, which can be potentially managed with immunomodulator therapy.

Immunomodulatory Properties of Taranjebin (Camel’s Thorn) Manna and Its Isolated Carbohydrate Macromolecules

Taranjebin manna is a substance produced by Poophilus nebulosus Leth. (Aphrophoridae) larva that feed from host plant Alhagi maurorum (Leguminosae). In Persian ethnomedicine, it is used as an antipyretic, antiviral, antimicrobial, demulcent, and adaptogen. But it is contraindicated in acute fever and some infections. This controversy might be due to its immunomodulatory properties. This study evaluated immunomodulatory properties of Taranjebin and its macromolecules. Taranjebin solution was prepared as described in traditional literature. After dialysis and precipitation, the macromolecules were isolated on DEAE Sephadex A-25. The cytotoxic/proliferative properties of Taranjebin and its isolated macromolecules on human Jurkat E6.1 cells were investigated (15.62-1000 μg/mL) using WST-1 reagent. Three of 4 isolated acidic polysaccharides inhibited the proliferation of Jurkat cells in a dose-dependent manner at concentrations higher than 31.25 μg/mL (IC50 range of 44.81-147.97 μg/mL). The crude aqueous Taranjebin solution had proliferative effects. These results indicate the immunomodulatory properties of Taranjebin.

Effect of ginseng and ginsenosides on melanogenesis and their mechanism of action

Abnormal changes in skin color induce significant cosmetic problems and affect quality of life. There are two groups of abnormal change in skin color; hyperpigmentation and hypopigmentation. Hyperpigmentation, darkening skin color by excessive pigmentation, is a major concern for Asian people with yellow–brown skin. A variety of hypopigmenting agents have been used, but treating the hyperpigmented condition is still challenging and the results are often discouraging. Panax ginseng has been used traditionally in eastern Asia to treat various diseases, due to its immunomodulatory, neuroprotective, antioxidative, and antitumor activities. Recently, several reports have shown that extract, powder, or some constituents of ginseng could inhibit melanogenesis in vivo or in vitro. The underlying mechanisms of antimelanogenic properties in ginseng or its components include the direct inhibition of key enzymes of melanogenesis, inhibition of transcription factors or signaling pathways involved in melanogenesis, decreasing production of inducers of melanogenesis, and enhancing production of antimelanogenic factor. Although there still remain some controversial issues surrounding the antimelanogenic activity of ginseng, especially in its effect on production of proinflammatory cytokines and nitric oxide, these recent findings suggest that ginseng and its constituents might be potential candidates for novel skin whitening agents.

A 14-week randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind clinical trial to evaluate the efficacy and safety of ginseng polysaccharide (Y-75)

Background

The Y-75 (Ginsan) acidic polysaccharide from Korean Panax ginseng has been shown to function as an immunomodulatory molecule. However, the efficacy of Y-75 has not been evaluated in clinical trial.

Methods

We verified Y-75 (6 g/day) for safety and immune efficacy in 72 healthy volunteers aged 50–75 years using a randomized, placebo-controlled, parallel, double-blind study. The activities of natural killer (NK) cells and peripheral blood phagocytes, as well as serum levels of monocyte-derived mediators, were assessed before and after administration for 8 and 14 weeks. This trial is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT02161198).

Results

Y-75 significantly enhanced NK cell cytotoxic activity by 35.2% and 40.2% from baseline after administration for 8 and 14 weeks, respectively. The phagocytic activity of peripheral blood cells was also significantly increased by 25.2% and 39.4% and serum level of TNF-α by 38.2% and 44.5% after treatment for 8 and 14 weeks, respectively. Differences in the efficacy of variables compared to the placebo group were also significant. Administration of Y-75 was well tolerated without treatment-related adverse events or alteration of complete blood cell count or blood chemistry over the entire study period.

Conclusion

Y-75 was shown to be a safe and potentially effective natural alternative for enhancing immune function.

Enzymatic transformation of ginsenosides in Korean Red Ginseng (Panax ginseng Meyer) extract prepared by Spezyme and Optidex

Background

In this study, we examined the effects of various enzymes on chemical conversions of ginsenosides in ginseng extract prepared by amylases.

Methods

Rapidase, Econase CE, Viscozyme, Ultraflo L, and Cytolase PCL5 were used for secondary enzymatic hydrolysis after amylase treatment of ginseng extract, and ginsenoside contents, skin permeability, and chemical compositions including total sugar, acidic polysaccharide, and polyphenols were determined on the hydrolyzed ginseng extract.

Results

Rapidase treatment significantly elevated total ginsenoside contents compared with the control (p < 0.05). In particular, deglycosylated ginsenosides including Rg3, which are known as bioactive compounds, were significantly increased after Rapidase treatment (p < 0.05). The Rapidase-treated group also increased the skin permeability of polyphenols compared with the control, showing the highest level of total sugar content among the enzyme treatment groups.

Conclusion

This result showed that Rapidase induced the conversion of ginsenoside glycosides to aglycones. Meanwhile, Cytolase PCL5 and Econase treatments led to a significant increase of uronic acid (acidic polysaccharide) level. Taken together, our data showed that the treatments of enzymes including Rapidase are useful for the conversion and increase of ginsenosides in ginseng extracts or products.

Ginseng and anticancer drug combination to improve cancer chemotherapy: a critical review

Ginseng, a well-known herb, is often used in combination with anticancer drugs to enhance chemotherapy. Its wide usage as well as many documentations are often cited to support its clinical benefit of such combination therapy. However the literature based on objective evidence to make such recommendation is still lacking. The present review critically evaluated relevant studies reported in English and Chinese literature on such combination. Based on our review, we found good evidence from in vitro and in vivo animal studies showing enhanced antitumor effect when ginseng is used in combination with some anticancer drugs. However, there is insufficient clinical evidence of such benefit as very few clinical studies are available. Future research should focus on clinically relevant studies of such combination to validate the utility of ginseng in cancer.

Protective effect of ginsenoside-Rb2 from Korean red ginseng on the lethal infection of haemagglutinating virus of Japan in mice

Korean red ginseng has been shown to possess a variety of biological activities. However, little is known about antiviral activity of ginsenosides of Korean red ginseng. Here, we investigated the protective effect by oral administration of various ginsenosides on the lethal infection of haemagglutinating virus of Japan (HVJ) in mice. In a lethal infection model in which almost all mice infected with HVJ died within 15 days, the mice were administered orally (per os) with 1 mg/mouse of dammarane-type (ginsenoside-Rb1, -Rb2, -Rd, -Re, and -Rg2) or oleanolic acid-type (ginsenoside-Ro) ginsenosides 3, 2, and 1 d before virus infection. Ginsenoside-Rb2 showed the highest protective activity, although other dammarane-type and oleanolic acid-type ginsenosides also induced a significant protection against HVJ. However, neither the consecutive administration with a lower dosage (300 μg/mouse) nor the single administration of ginsenoside-Rb2 (1 mg/mouse) was active. In comparison of the protective activity between ginsenoside-Rb2 and its two hydrolytic products [20(S)- and 20(R)-ginsenoside-Rg3], 20(S)-ginsenoside-Rg3, but not 20(R)-ginsenoside-Rg3, elicited a partial protection against HVJ. The protective effect of ginsenoside-Rb2 and 20(S)-ginsenoside-Rg3 on HVJ infection was confirmed by the reduction of virus titers in the lungs of HVJ-infected mice. These results suggest that ginsenoside-Rb2 is the most effective among ginsenosides from red ginseng to prevent the lethal infection of HVJ, so that this ginsenoside is a promising candidate as a mucosal immunoadjuvant to enhance antiviral activity.

Effects of red ginseng extract on zearalenone induced spermatogenesis impairment in rat

Zearalenone (ZEA) is a phenolic resorcylic acid lactone compound produced by several species of Fusarium. ZEA has toxic effects in the testes of domestic and laboratory animals. Korean red ginseng (KRG), the steamed root of Panax ginseng Meyer, has multiple pharmacological effects such as vasorelaxation, anti-thrombosis, anti-hypertension, etc. In this study, we investigated the effects of KRG extract on testicular toxicity induced by ZEA. Rats were treated with 300 mg/kg oral doses of KRG for 4 weeks every other day. The rats were then treated with a single dose of 5 mg/kg ZEA delivered intraperitoneally, whereas control rats received only doses of the vehicle. As a result, germ cell apoptosis induced by ZEA was decreased by KRG pre-treatment. In addition, Fas and Fas-L expression was reduced in rats that received KRG pre-treatment compared to ones treated with ZEA alone. In conclusion, impaired spermatogenesis resulting from ZEA treatment was prevented by KRG through Fas-Fas L modulating.

Fermenting red ginseng enhances its safety and efficacy as a novel skin care anti-aging ingredient: in vitro and animal study

The objective of this study was to evaluate the anti-aging potential and skin safety of red ginseng (RG) and fermented red ginseng (FRG) using Lactobacillus brevis for use as cosmetic ingredients. Concentrations of uronic acid, polyphenols, and flavonoids, and antioxidant activities were greater in FRG compared to RG. The contents of total ginsenosides were not significantly different. However, the ginsenoside metabolite content was higher in FRG (14,914.3 μg/mL) compared to RG (5697.9 μg/mL). The tyrosinase inhibitory activity (IC(50)) of FRG was 27.63 μg/mL, and more potent compared with RG (34.14 μg/mL), (P<.05). The elastase inhibitory activity (IC(50)) of FRG was 117.07 μg/mL also higher compared with RG (157.90 μg/mL). In a primary skin irritation test, 10% RG and 10% FRG were classified as practically nonirritating materials. In a skin sensitization test, the RG group showed a sensitization rate of 100% and its mean evaluation score of irritation was 1.4, whereas the FRG group showed 20% and 0.2%, respectively. By fermentation of RG, FRG has increased contents of ginsenoside metabolites, such as Rg3, Rg5, Rk1, compound K, Rh1, F2, Rg2, and flavonoids content. Therefore, FRG offers increased anti-wrinkle efficacy, whitening efficacy, and reduced toxicological potency compared to RG.

The detailed analysis of the changes of murine dendritic cells (DCs) induced by thymic peptide: pidotimod(PTD)

The aim of present research is to analyze the detailed changes of dendritic cells (DCs) induced by pidotimod(PTD). These impacts on DCs of both bone marrow derived DCs and established DC2.4 cell line were assessed with use of conventional scanning electron microscopy (SEM), flow cytometry (FCM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), cytochemistry assay FITC-dextran, bio-assay and enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). We demonstrated the ability of PTD to induce DC phynotypic and functional maturation as evidenced by higher expression of key surface molecules such as MHC II, CD80 and CD86. The functional tests proved the downregulation of ACP inside the DCs, occurred when phagocytosis of DCs decreased, with simultaneously antigen presentation increased toward maturation. Finally, PTD also stimulated production of more cytokine IL-12 and less TNF-α. Therefore it is concluded that PTD can markedly exert positive induction to murine DCs.

Molecular mechanism of macrophage activation by red ginseng acidic polysaccharide from Korean red ginseng

Red ginseng acidic polysaccharide (RGAP), isolated from Korean red ginseng, displays immunostimulatory and antitumor activities. Even though numerous studies have been reported, the mechanism as to how RGAP is able to stimulate the immune response is not clear. In this study, we aimed to explore the mechanism of molecular activation of RGAP in macrophages. RGAP treatment strongly induced NO production in RAW264.7 cells without altering morphological changes, although the activity was not strong compared to LPS-induced dendritic-like morphology in RAW264.7 cells. RGAP-induced NO production was accompanied with enhanced mRNA levels of iNOS and increases in nuclear transcription factors such as NF-κB, AP-1, STAT-1, ATF-2, and CREB. According to pharmacological evaluation with specific enzyme inhibitors, Western blot analysis of intracellular signaling proteins and inhibitory pattern using blocking antibodies, ERK, and JNK were found to be the most important signaling enzymes compared to LPS signaling cascade. Further, TLR2 seems to be a target surface receptor of RGAP. Lastly, macrophages isolated from RGS2 knockout mice or wortmannin exposure strongly upregulated RGAP-treated NO production. Therefore, our results suggest that RGAP can activate macrophage function through activation of transcription factors such as NF-κB and AP-1 and their upstream signaling enzymes such as ERK and JNK.

Synthesis of C-Pseudonucleosides Bearing Thiazolidin-4-one as a Novel Potential Immunostimulating Agent

Several novel C-pseudonucleosides bearing thiazolidin-4-one were synthesized by one-pot three-component condensation using unprotected sugar aldehyde at room temperature, and their effects on T cells, B cells, the cytokine secretion of IL-2, IL-4, and IFN-γ, T cell-associated molecules (CD3, CD4, CD8), and B cell-associated molecules (CD19) were first evaluated. The experimental data demonstrated that such thiazolidin-4-one C-pseudonucleosides hold potential as immunostimulating agents.

Anti-hyperlipidemic effects of red ginseng acidic polysaccharide from Korean red ginseng

It has been reported that red ginseng acidic polysaccharide (RGAP), isolated from Korean red ginseng, displays immunostimulatory and anti-tumor activities. In a follow-up study, we have carried out a study on the anti-hyperlipidemic effects of RGAP using hyperlipidemic rats acutely induced by Triton WR1339 or corn oil intravenously injected. Oral administration of RGAP (100 to 1000 mg/kg) dose-dependently reduced the serum levels of triglyceride (TG) up-regulated by Triton WR1339, an inducer of endogenous model hyperlipidemia. Moreover, RGAP treatment was shown to significantly decrease the levels of non-esterified fatty acid (NEFA) concomitant with TG reduction. However, such reduction effects were not observed in cases of total cholesterol (TC) and phospholipid levels increased under the same conditions, although there was an inhibitory tendency. Similar suppressive patterns were also seen in hepatic parameters (total lipids and TG) under the same conditions. The exogenous hyperlipidemic rat condition triggered by corn oil also supported the anti-hyperlipidemic activity of RGAP in serum and hepatic parameters of TG and NEFA. Interestingly, RGAP significantly enhanced the serum activity of lipoprotein lipase, a key hydrolytic enzyme of lipid molecules in lipoprotein, in a dose-dependent manner up to 80%, implying potential involvement of this enzyme in lowering TG and NEFA by RGAP. Therefore, our data suggest that RGAP may play an additional role in reducing hyperlipidemic conditions, which can be used as a valuable neutraceutical application for the treatment of hyperlipidemia.