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Levis DJ, Meckler JF, O’Donnell RT, Tuscano JM. A Fermented Wheat Germ Extract Contains Protein Components Active against NSCLC Xenografts In Vivo. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2023; 45:7087-7096. [PMID: 37754232 PMCID: PMC10530145 DOI: 10.3390/cimb45090448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) continues to be the leading cause of cancer-related deaths. Although advances have been made in the past decade to treat such tumors, most options induce multiple side effects, and many patients discontinue therapy due to toxicity. Thus, the need remains for non-toxic, effective NSCLC therapies, especially in an elderly patient population. Our lab has previously identified a protein fraction from the nutraceutical Avemar®-dubbed fermented wheat germ protein (FWGP)-with demonstrated efficacy in lymphoma models both in vitro and in vivo. Here, we show that FWGP also has anti-tumor activity in vitro and in vivo against lung cancer. In vitro cytotoxicity against multiple lung cancer cell lines yielded IC50 values comparable to those previously established with the parent product, Avemar. Further, significant A549 xenograft growth inhibition occurred in athymic nu/nu mice receiving FWGP in both pre-radiated and non-radiated models when compared to the untreated control. Encouragingly, mice treated with FWGP experienced no toxicities as detected by weight reduction or blood chemistry analysis. These data support the further study of FWGP as a potential non-toxic therapy for lung cancer and other oncologic indications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel J. Levis
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA; (D.J.L.)
| | - Joshua F. Meckler
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA; (D.J.L.)
| | - Robert T. O’Donnell
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA; (D.J.L.)
| | - Joseph M. Tuscano
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA; (D.J.L.)
- Department of Veterans Affairs, Northern California Healthcare System, Sacramento, CA 95652, USA
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Tarcsai KR, Hidvégi M, Corolciuc O, Nagy K, Abbas AA, Ablashi DV, Kövesdi V, Ongrádi J. The effects of Avemar treatment on feline immunodeficiency virus infected cell cultures. Vet Med Sci 2023. [PMID: 37079719 DOI: 10.1002/vms3.1141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2022] [Revised: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/26/2023] [Indexed: 04/22/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In addition to standard highly active antiretroviral therapy protocols, complementary therapies using natural compounds are widely used by human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected human patients. One such compound is the fermented wheat germ extract (FWGE), named Avemar. MATERIALS AND METHODS In this study, we investigate the effects of Avemar in a feline-acquired immunodeficiency syndrome model. MBM lymphoid cells were acutely infected by the American feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV)-Petaluma (FIV-Pet) and the European FIV Pisa-M2 strains. FL-4 lymphoid cells, continuously producing FIV-Pet, served as a model for chronic infection. Crandell Rees feline kidney (CRFK) cells were infected by either FIV-Pet or feline adenovirus (FeAdV) as a model for transactivation and opportunistic viral infection. Cell cultures were treated pre- and post-infection with serial dilutions of spray-dried FWGE (Avemar pulvis, AP), a standardized active ingredient in commercial Avemar products. Residual FIV and FeAdV infectivity was quantified. RESULTS In a concentration-dependent manner, AP inhibited replication of FIV strains in MBM and CRFK cells by 3-5 log. Low AP concentration prevented FIV-Pet release from FL-4 cells. Higher concentrations destroyed virus-producing cells with cytopathic effects resembling apoptosis. AP strongly inhibited FeAdV production inside CRFK cells but not in HeLa cells. Adenovirus particles are then released via the disintegration of CRFK cells. DISCUSSION This report is the first to describe the antiviral effects of Avemar. Further studies are required to confirm its in vitro and in vivo effects and to investigate the potential for its use as a nutraceutical in FIV-infected felines or HIV-infected humans. CONCLUSION Avemar, as a single nutraceutical, inhibits FIV replication and destroys retrovirus carrier cells. An important conclusion is that prolonged Avemar treatment might reduce the number of retrovirus-producing cells in the host.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Máté Hidvégi
- Jewish Theological Seminary - University of Jewish Studies (OR-ZSE), Budapest, Hungary
| | - Oliga Corolciuc
- Doctoral School, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
- Department of Transfusion Medicine, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Károly Nagy
- Molecular Microbiology Diagnostic Laboratory, Eötvös Lóránd University (ELTE), Budapest, Hungary
| | | | | | - Valéria Kövesdi
- Department of Public Health, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - József Ongrádi
- Department of Transfusion Medicine, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
- Department of Public Health, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
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The Prime and Integral Cause of Cancer in the Post-Warburg Era. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15020540. [PMID: 36672490 PMCID: PMC9856494 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15020540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2022] [Revised: 12/29/2022] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Back to beginnings. A century ago, Otto Warburg published that aerobic glycolysis and the respiratory impairment of cells were the prime cause of cancer, a phenomenon that since then has been known as "the Warburg effect". In his early studies, Warburg looked at the effects of hydrogen ions (H+), on glycolysis in anaerobic conditions, as well as of bicarbonate and glucose. He found that gassing with CO2 led to the acidification of the solutions, resulting in decreased rates of glycolysis. It appears that Warburg first interpreted the role of pH on glycolysis as a secondary phenomenon, a side effect that was there just to compensate for the effect of bicarbonate. However, later on, while talking about glycolysis in a seminar at the Rockefeller Foundation, he said: "Special attention should be drawn to the remarkable influence of the bicarbonate…". Departing from the very beginnings of this metabolic cancer research in the 1920s, our perspective advances an analytic as well as the synthetic approach to the new "pH-related paradigm of cancer", while at the same time addressing the most fundamental and recent changing concepts in cancer metabolic etiology and its potential therapeutic implications.
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Peddada LM, Sagurthi SR, Guguloth VC, Annapragada R, Kanuparthy PR. Visible Light Driven Photodegradation of Pathological Effluents and Biological Evaluation of Green ZnO Nanoparticles. ChemistrySelect 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/slct.202200146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Lakshmi Madhuri Peddada
- School of Science GITAM (Deemed to be University) Hyderabad Telangana 502329 India
- St. Francis College for Women, Begumpet Hyderabad Telangana 500016 India
| | - Someswar Rao Sagurthi
- Department of Genetics and Biotechnology University College of Science Osmania University Hyderabad Telangana 500007 India
| | - Vijaya Charan Guguloth
- Department of Chemistry University College of Science Osmania University Hyderabad Telangana 500007 India
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Harguindey S, Alfarouk K, Polo Orozco J, Reshkin SJ, Devesa J. Hydrogen Ion Dynamics as the Fundamental Link between Neurodegenerative Diseases and Cancer: Its Application to the Therapeutics of Neurodegenerative Diseases with Special Emphasis on Multiple Sclerosis. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23052454. [PMID: 35269597 PMCID: PMC8910484 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23052454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2022] [Revised: 02/17/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The pH-related metabolic paradigm has rapidly grown in cancer research and treatment. In this contribution, this recent oncological perspective has been laterally assessed for the first time in order to integrate neurodegeneration within the energetics of the cancer acid-base conceptual frame. At all levels of study (molecular, biochemical, metabolic, and clinical), the intimate nature of both processes appears to consist of opposite mechanisms occurring at the far ends of a physiopathological intracellular pH/extracellular pH (pHi/pHe) spectrum. This wide-ranging original approach now permits an increase in our understanding of these opposite processes, cancer and neurodegeneration, and, as a consequence, allows us to propose new avenues of treatment based upon the intracellular and microenvironmental hydrogen ion dynamics regulating and deregulating the biochemistry and metabolism of both cancer and neural cells. Under the same perspective, the etiopathogenesis and special characteristics of multiple sclerosis (MS) is an excellent model for the study of neurodegenerative diseases and, utilizing this pioneering approach, we find that MS appears to be a metabolic disease even before an autoimmune one. Furthermore, within this paradigm, several important aspects of MS, from mitochondrial failure to microbiota functional abnormalities, are analyzed in depth. Finally, and for the first time, a new and integrated model of treatment for MS can now be advanced.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salvador Harguindey
- Division of Oncology, Institute of Clinical Biology and Metabolism, 01004 Vitoria, Spain;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-629-047-141
| | - Khalid Alfarouk
- Institute of Endemic Diseases, University of Khartoum, Khartoum 11111, Sudan;
| | - Julián Polo Orozco
- Division of Oncology, Institute of Clinical Biology and Metabolism, 01004 Vitoria, Spain;
| | - Stephan J Reshkin
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnology and Biopharmaceutics, University of Bari, 70125 Bari, Italy;
| | - Jesús Devesa
- Scientific Direction, Foltra Medical Centre, 15886 Teo, Spain;
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Weitzen R, Epstein N, Oberman B, Shevetz R, Hidvegi M, Berger R. Fermented Wheat Germ Extract (FWGE) as a Treatment Additive for Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer: A Pilot Clinical Trial. Nutr Cancer 2021; 74:1338-1346. [PMID: 34286638 DOI: 10.1080/01635581.2021.1952457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) is a devastating and incurable disease. Combined therapy using conventional anticancer drugs and a proprietary medical nutriment, fermented wheat germ extract (FWGE), also known as Avemar, has been suggested as a treatment for progressing prostate cancer (PCa) patients, who have become resistant to first line hormonal therapy (gonadotropin releasing hormone, GnRH). The primary aim of this study was to test if this combined therapy would slow down disease progression in CRPC patients. We tested the nontoxic, readily available, inexpensive FWGE, together with the conventional treatment, GnRH analogue, in 36 CRPC patients. Although this is a pilot study, with the drawback of a statistically small sample size, some anticancer clinical activity of FWGE could be seen in the CRPC patients, as measured by prostate specific antigen doubling time (PSADT). We found that the intake of GnRH with FWGE for at least 4 months, improved the overall health as well as the quality of life (QOL) in 4 patients (11%) and was instrumental in extending the PSADT in about 17 (out of 26) patients (65.4%), six of whom were significant. Since no mentionable adverse events were noticed, this treatment may permit the postponement of chemotherapy for these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rony Weitzen
- Sheba Medical Center, Oncology, Tel Hashomer, Israel.,Tel Aviv University, Ramat Aviv, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Nava Epstein
- Sheba Medical Center, Oncology, Tel Hashomer, Israel
| | - Bernice Oberman
- The Gertner Institute for Epidemiology and Health Policy Research, Tel Hashomer, Israel
| | | | - Mate Hidvegi
- Jewish Theological Seminary - University of Jewish Studies (OR-ZSE), Budapest, Hungary
| | - Raanan Berger
- Sheba Medical Center, Oncology, Tel Hashomer, Israel.,Tel Aviv University, Ramat Aviv, Tel Aviv, Israel
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Fermented Wheat Germ Extract as a Redox Modulator: Alleviating Endotoxin-Triggered Oxidative Stress in Primary Cultured Rat Hepatocytes. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2020; 2020:3181202. [PMID: 33456668 PMCID: PMC7787767 DOI: 10.1155/2020/3181202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2020] [Revised: 11/20/2020] [Accepted: 11/25/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Bioactive compounds such as benzoquinone derivates presented in fermented wheat germ extract (FWGE) have several positive effects on overall health status of humans and animals alike. Since available data regarding the antioxidant activity of FWGE are limited, the aim of our study was to investigate its effects on the cellular redox homeostasis applying primary hepatocyte cell cultures of rat origin. Cultures were challenged to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) treatment for 2 or 8 hours to trigger inflammatory response. Further, culture media were concomitantly supplemented with or without FWGE (Immunovet®, 0.1% and 1%). In order to monitor the metabolic activity of the cell cultures, CCK-8 test was applied, while reactive oxygen species (ROS) production was measured using Amplex Red method. Malondialdehyde concentration of culture media as a specific marker of lipid peroxidation and the activity of glutathione peroxidase in cell lysates were also determined to monitor the redox status of the cultures. Based on our findings, it can be concluded that FWGE did not show cytotoxic effects in any applied concentration in cell cultures. Furthermore, FWGE efficiently decreased cellular ROS production and lipid peroxidation rate in case of LPS-induced inflammatory response. However, without LPS treatment, higher concentration of FWGE increased the rate of both ROS and malondialdehyde synthesis. This observation may refer to the prooxidant activity of high dose FWGE, which is an important beneficial effect regarding tumor cells. However, in case of noninflamed hepatocytes, considering the results of glutathione peroxidase activity, the application of the product did not result in severe oxidative distress. In accordance with the abovementioned findings, FWGE as a redox modulator, applied in the appropriate concentration, can serve as a promising candidate in the supplementary therapy of patients suffering from various inflammatory diseases, decreasing the free radical generation, thus avoiding the occurrence of cytotoxic effects.
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Bencze G, Bencze S, Rivera KD, Watson JD, Hidvegi M, Orfi L, Tonks NK, Pappin DJ. Mito-oncology agent: fermented extract suppresses the Warburg effect, restores oxidative mitochondrial activity, and inhibits in vivo tumor growth. Sci Rep 2020; 10:14174. [PMID: 32843660 PMCID: PMC7447799 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-71118-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Mitochondrial dysfunction and significant changes in metabolic pathways accompany cancer development and are responsible for maintaining the tumor microenvironment. Normal mitochondria can trigger intrinsic apoptosis by releasing cytochrome c into the cytosol. The survival of malignant cells highly depends on the suppression of this function. We validated that A250, a highly purified fraction of fermented wheat germ extract (FWGE), increases the carbon flux into the mitochondria, the expression of key elements of the Krebs cycle and oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS). The increased respiratory chain activity is related to the mitochondria’s ability to release cytochrome c into the cytosol, which triggers the apoptotic cascade. The 68% tumor growth inhibitory effect observed in the murine melanoma study is related to this effect, as proteomic analysis validated similar changes in mitochondrial protein levels in the isolated tumor tissue samples. Blood count data indicated that this effect was not accompanied by general toxicity. This study is significant, as it shows that a highly concentrated form of FWGE is an effective agent that increases normal mitochondrial functionality. The lack of hepatotoxic and general toxic effects makes A250 an excellent candidate targeting mitochondria function in cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gyula Bencze
- Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY, 11724, USA. .,American Biosciences, Inc, Blauvelt, NY, 10913, USA.
| | - Szilvia Bencze
- Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY, 11724, USA
| | - Keith D Rivera
- Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY, 11724, USA
| | - James D Watson
- Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY, 11724, USA
| | - Mate Hidvegi
- Jewish Theological Seminary-University of Jewish Studies, Budapest, 1084, Hungary
| | - Laszlo Orfi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Semmelweis University, Budapest, 1085, Hungary
| | - Nicholas K Tonks
- Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY, 11724, USA
| | - Darryl J Pappin
- Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY, 11724, USA
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Tlais AZA, Fiorino GM, Polo A, Filannino P, Di Cagno R. High-Value Compounds in Fruit, Vegetable and Cereal Byproducts: An Overview of Potential Sustainable Reuse and Exploitation. Molecules 2020; 25:E2987. [PMID: 32629805 PMCID: PMC7412346 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25132987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2020] [Revised: 06/23/2020] [Accepted: 06/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Food waste (FW) represents a global and ever-growing issue that is attracting more attention due to its environmental, ethical, social and economic implications. Although a valuable quantity of bioactive components is still present in the residuals, nowadays most FW is destined for animal feeding, landfill disposal, composting and incineration. Aiming to valorize and recycle food byproducts, the development of novel and sustainable strategies to reduce the annual food loss appears an urgent need. In particular, plant byproducts are a plentiful source of high-value compounds that may be exploited as natural antioxidants, preservatives and supplements in the food industry, pharmaceuticals and cosmetics. In this review, a comprehensive overview of the main bioactive compounds in fruit, vegetable and cereal byproducts is provided. Additionally, the natural and suitable application of tailored enzymatic treatments and fermentation to recover high-value compounds from plant byproducts is discussed. Based on these promising strategies, a future expansion of green biotechnologies to revalorize the high quantity of byproducts is highly encouraging to reduce the food waste/losses and promote benefits on human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Zein Alabiden Tlais
- Faculty of Sciences and Technology, Libera Università di Bolzano, 39100 Bolzano, Italy; (A.Z.A.T.); (G.M.F.); (A.P.)
| | - Giuseppina Maria Fiorino
- Faculty of Sciences and Technology, Libera Università di Bolzano, 39100 Bolzano, Italy; (A.Z.A.T.); (G.M.F.); (A.P.)
| | - Andrea Polo
- Faculty of Sciences and Technology, Libera Università di Bolzano, 39100 Bolzano, Italy; (A.Z.A.T.); (G.M.F.); (A.P.)
| | - Pasquale Filannino
- Department of Soil, Plant and Food Science, University of Bari Aldo Moro, 70121 Bari, Italy;
| | - Raffaella Di Cagno
- Faculty of Sciences and Technology, Libera Università di Bolzano, 39100 Bolzano, Italy; (A.Z.A.T.); (G.M.F.); (A.P.)
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Ojo BA, O'Hara C, Wu L, El-Rassi GD, Ritchey JW, Chowanadisai W, Lin D, Smith BJ, Lucas EA. Wheat Germ Supplementation Increases Lactobacillaceae and Promotes an Anti-inflammatory Gut Milieu in C57BL/6 Mice Fed a High-Fat, High-Sucrose Diet. J Nutr 2019; 149:1107-1115. [PMID: 31162575 DOI: 10.1093/jn/nxz061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2018] [Revised: 10/25/2018] [Accepted: 03/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A link between high-fat diet consumption and obesity-related diseases is the disruption of the gut bacterial population, which promotes local and systemic inflammation. Wheat germ (WG) is rich in bioactive components with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of WG supplementation in modulating the gut bacterial population and local and systemic inflammatory markers of mice fed a high-fat, high-sucrose (HFS) diet. METHODS Six-week-old male C57BL/6 mice were randomly assigned to 4 groups (n = 12/group) and fed a control (C; 10% kcal fat, 10% kcal sucrose) or HFS (60% kcal fat, 20% kcal sucrose) diet with or without 10% WG (wt:wt) for 12 wk. Cecal bacteria was assessed via 16S rDNA sequencing, fecal short-chain fatty acids by GC, small intestinal CD4+ lymphocytes using flow cytometry, and gut antimicrobial peptide genes and inflammatory markers by quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Statistical analyses included Kruskal-Wallis/Dunn's test and 2-factor ANOVA using HFS and WG as factors. RESULTS There was a 4-fold increase (P = 0.007) in the beneficial bacterial family, Lactobacillaceae, in the HFS + WG compared with the HFS group. Fecal propionic and n-butyric acids were elevated at least 2-fold in C + WG compared with the other groups (P < 0.0001). WG tended to increase (≥7%; P-trend = 0.12) small intestinal regulatory T cell:Th17 ratio, indicating a potential to induce an anti-inflammatory gut environment. WG elevated (≥35%) ileal gene expression of the anti-inflammatory cytokine Il10 compared to the unsupplemented groups (P = 0.038). Ileal gene expression of the antimicrobial peptides Reg3b and Reg3g was upregulated (≥95%) in the HFS + WG compared with other groups (P ≤ 0.040). WG reduced serum concentrations of the pro-inflammatory cytokines, interleukin (IL)-1B, IL-6, interferon-γ, and tumor necrosis factor-α (≥17%; P ≤ 0.012). CONCLUSIONS WG selectively increased gut Lactobacillaceae, upregulated ileal antimicrobial peptides, and attenuated circulating pro-inflammatory cytokines of C57BL/6 mice fed a HFS diet. These changes may be vital in preventing HFS diet-induced comorbidities.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Lei Wu
- Nutritional Sciences Department
| | | | - Jerry W Ritchey
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, Center for Veterinary Health Sciences, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK
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Verni M, Rizzello CG, Coda R. Fermentation Biotechnology Applied to Cereal Industry By-Products: Nutritional and Functional Insights. Front Nutr 2019; 6:42. [PMID: 31032259 PMCID: PMC6473998 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2019.00042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2019] [Accepted: 03/25/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cereals are one of the major food sources in human diet and a large quantity of by-products is generated throughout their processing chain. These by-products mostly consist of the germ and outer layers (bran), deriving from dry and wet milling of grains, brewers' spent grain originating from brewing industry, or others originating during bread-making and starch production. Cereal industry by-products are rich in nutrients, but still they end up as feed, fuel, substrates for biorefinery, or waste. The above uses, however, only provide a partial recycle. Although cereal processing industry side streams can potentially provide essential compounds for the diet, their use in food production is limited by their challenging technological properties. For this reason, the development of innovative biotechnologies is essential to upgrade these by-products, potentially leading to the design of novel and commercially competitive functional foods. Fermentation has been proven as a very feasible option to enhance the technological, sensory, and especially nutritional and functional features of the cereal industry by-products. Through the increase of minerals, phenolics and vitamins bioavailability, proteins digestibility, and the degradation of antinutritional compounds as phytic acid, fermentation can lead to improved nutritional quality of the matrix. In some cases, more compelling benefits have been discovered, such as the synthesis of bioactive compounds acting as antimicrobial, antitumoral, antioxidant agents. When used for baked-goods manufacturing, fermented cereal by-products have enhanced their nutritional profile. The key factor of a successful use of cereal by-products in food applications is the use of a proper bioprocessing technology, including fermentation with selected starters. In the journey toward a more efficient food chain, biotechnological approaches for the valorization of agricultural side streams can be considered a very valuable help.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michela Verni
- Department of Soil, Plant and Food Science, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | | | - Rossana Coda
- Department of Food and Environmental Science, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
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Koh EM, Lee EK, Song J, Kim SJ, Song CH, Seo Y, Chae CH, Jung KJ. Anticancer activity and mechanism of action of fermented wheat germ extract against ovarian cancer. J Food Biochem 2018. [DOI: 10.1111/jfbc.12688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Eun Mi Koh
- Bioanalytical and Immunoanalytical Research Group Korea Institute of Toxicology Daejeon Korea
| | - Eun Kyeong Lee
- Bioanalytical and Immunoanalytical Research Group Korea Institute of Toxicology Daejeon Korea
| | - Jeongah Song
- Animal Model Research Center Korea Institute of Toxicology Jeongeup Korea
| | - Su Jin Kim
- Bioanalytical and Immunoanalytical Research Group Korea Institute of Toxicology Daejeon Korea
| | - Chi Hun Song
- Bioanalytical and Immunoanalytical Research Group Korea Institute of Toxicology Daejeon Korea
| | - Youjin Seo
- Chemical Analysis Research Group Korea Institute of Toxicology Daejeon Korea
| | - Chang Hoon Chae
- Celldi Co., Ltd., AntiCancer Research Institute Jeollabuk-do Republic of Korea
| | - Kyung Jin Jung
- Bioanalytical and Immunoanalytical Research Group Korea Institute of Toxicology Daejeon Korea
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Zhurakivska K, Troiano G, Caponio VCA, Dioguardi M, Arena C, Lo Muzio L. The Effects of Adjuvant Fermented Wheat Germ Extract on Cancer Cell Lines: A Systematic Review. Nutrients 2018; 10:nu10101546. [PMID: 30347664 PMCID: PMC6213720 DOI: 10.3390/nu10101546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2018] [Revised: 10/11/2018] [Accepted: 10/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Fermented wheat germ extract (FWGE; trade name AVEMAR) is a natural compound derived from industrial fermentation of wheat germ. Its potential anticancer properties has emerged from recent studies. The aim of this systematic review is to summarize the data available in the scientific literature concerning the in vitro activity of FWGE on malignant cells. A systematic review of English articles in electronic databases has been performed. The primary outcomes of the review regarded types of cancer cell lines subjected to the investigation and the main results concerning cell viability, proliferation, and apoptosis observed within the studies. Sixteen articles were included in the final qualitative analysis. Various types of cancer cells treated with FWGE have been analyzed, showing mainly cytotoxic effects, alteration of the cell cycle, antiproliferative effects, and induction of apoptosis. FWGE can be a promising drug component in cancer treatment; however, further in vitro and in vivo studies are necessary to prove its effectiveness and safety in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khrystyna Zhurakivska
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy.
| | - Giuseppe Troiano
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy.
| | | | - Mario Dioguardi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy.
| | - Claudia Arena
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy.
| | - Lorenzo Lo Muzio
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy.
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Boukid F, Folloni S, Ranieri R, Vittadini E. A compendium of wheat germ: Separation, stabilization and food applications. Trends Food Sci Technol 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tifs.2018.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
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15
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Barisone GA, O’Donnell RT, Ma Y, Abuhay MW, Lundeberg K, Gowda S, Tuscano JM. A purified, fermented, extract of Triticum aestivum has lymphomacidal activity mediated via natural killer cell activation. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0190860. [PMID: 29304125 PMCID: PMC5755921 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0190860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2017] [Accepted: 12/21/2017] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) affects over 400,000 people in the United States; its incidence increases with age. Treatment options are numerous and expanding, yet efficacy is often limited by toxicity, particularly in the elderly. Nearly 70% patients eventually die of the disease. Many patients explore less toxic alternative therapeutics proposed to boost anti-tumor immunity, despite a paucity of rigorous scientific data. Here we evaluate the lymphomacidal and immunomodulatory activities of a protein fraction isolated from fermented wheat germ. Fermented wheat germ extract was produced by fermenting wheat germ with Saccharomyces cerevisiae. A protein fraction was tested for lymphomacidal activity in vitro using NHL cell lines and in vivo using mouse xenografts. Mechanisms of action were explored in vitro by evaluating apoptosis and cell cycle and in vivo by immunophenotyping and measurement of NK cell activity. Potent lymphomacidal activity was observed in a panel of NHL cell lines and mice bearing NHL xenografts. This activity was not dependent on wheat germ agglutinin or benzoquinones. Fermented wheat germ proteins induced apoptosis in NHL cells, and augmented immune effector mechanisms, as measured by NK cell killing activity, degranulation and production of IFNγ. Fermented wheat germ extract can be easily produced and is efficacious in a human lymphoma xenograft model. The protein fraction is quantifiable and more potent, shows direct pro-apoptotic properties, and enhances immune-mediated tumor eradication. The results presented herein support the novel concept that proteins in fermented wheat germ have direct pro-apoptotic activity on lymphoma cells and augment host immune effector mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gustavo A. Barisone
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of California Davis, Sacramento, California, United States of America
| | - Robert T. O’Donnell
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of California Davis, Sacramento, California, United States of America
| | - Yunpeng Ma
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of California Davis, Sacramento, California, United States of America
| | - Mastewal W. Abuhay
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of California Davis, Sacramento, California, United States of America
| | - Kathleen Lundeberg
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of California Davis, Sacramento, California, United States of America
| | - Sonia Gowda
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of California Davis, Sacramento, California, United States of America
| | - Joseph M. Tuscano
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of California Davis, Sacramento, California, United States of America
- Department of Veterans Affairs, Northern California Healthcare System, Mather, California, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Wheat germ supplementation alleviates insulin resistance and cardiac mitochondrial dysfunction in an animal model of diet-induced obesity. Br J Nutr 2017; 118:241-249. [DOI: 10.1017/s0007114517002082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
AbstractObesity is strongly associated with insulin resistance (IR), along with mitochondrial dysfunction to metabolically active tissues and increased production of reactive O2 species (ROS). Foods rich in antioxidants such as wheat germ (WG), protect tissues from damage due to ROS and modulate some negative effects of obesity. This study examined the effects of WG supplementation on markers of IR, mitochondrial substrate metabolism and innate antioxidant markers in two metabolically active tissues (i.e. liver and heart) of C57BL/6 mice fed a high-fat–high-sucrose (HFS) diet. Male C57BL/6 mice, 6-week-old, were randomised into four dietary treatment groups (n 12 mice/group): control (C, 10 % fat kcal), C+10 % WG, HFS (60 % fat kcal) or HFS+10 % WG (HFS+WG). After 12 weeks of treatment, HFS+WG mice had significantly less visceral fat (−16 %, P=0·006) compared with the HFS group. WG significantly reduced serum insulin (P=0·009), the insulinotropic hormone, gastric inhibitory peptide (P=0·0003), and the surrogate measure of IR, homoeostatic model assessment of IR (P=0·006). HFS diet significantly elevated (45 %, P=0·02) cardiac complex 2 mitochondrial VO2, suggesting increased metabolic stress, whereas WG stabilised this effect to the level of control. Consequently, genes which mediate antioxidant defense and mitochondrial biogenesis (superoxide dismutase 2 (Sod2) and PPARγ coactivator 1-α (Pgc1a), respectively) were significantly reduced (P<0·05) in the heart of the HFS group, whereas WG supplementation tended to up-regulate both genes. WG significantly increased hepatic gene expression of Sod2 (P=0·048) but not Pgc1a. Together, these results showed that WG supplementation in HFS diet, reduced IR and improved cardiac mitochondrial metabolic functions.
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Heimbach JT, Sebestyen G, Semjen G, Kennepohl E. Safety Studies Regarding a Standardized Extract of Fermented Wheat Germ. Int J Toxicol 2017; 26:253-9. [PMID: 17564907 DOI: 10.1080/10915810701369709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
“Avemar pulvis” is a powder consisting of an aqueous extract of fermented wheat germ, with the drying aids maltodextrin and silicon dioxide, standardized to contain approximately 200 μg/g of the natural constituent 2,6-dimethoxy- p-benzoquinone. The results of toxicological and clinical studies of this product demonstrate its safety for its intended use as a dietary supplement ingredient in the United States. Avemar pulvis has been used in Hungary since 1998 and is approved in that country, as well as in the Czech Republic, Bulgaria, and Romania, as a “medical nutriment for cancer patients.” Acute and subacute toxicity studies using rodents orally administered Avemar pulvis showed that dose levels (2000 to 3000 mg/kg body weight [bw]/day) exceeding the normal recommended oral dosage (8.5 g/day or 121 mg/kg bw/day for a 70-kg individual) by up to approximately 25-fold caused no adverse effects. The test substance showed no evidence of mutagenicity or genotoxicity in vitro or in vivo. Clinical studies using Avemar pulvis as a supplement to drug therapy in cancer patients at doses of 8.5 g/day not only showed no evidence of toxicity, but also showed a reduction in the side effects of chemotherapy. Overall, it was concluded that Avemar pulvis would not be expected to cause adverse effects under the conditions of its intended use as an ingredient in dietary supplements.
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Abdelmonem M, Kassem SH, Gabr H, Shaheen AA, Aboushousha T. Avemar and Echinacea extracts enhance mobilization and homing of CD34(+) stem cells in rats with acute myocardial infarction. Stem Cell Res Ther 2015; 6:172. [PMID: 26369808 PMCID: PMC4570476 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-015-0171-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2014] [Revised: 05/06/2015] [Accepted: 08/27/2015] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Activation of endogenous stem cell mobilization can contribute to myocardial regeneration after ischemic injury. This study aimed to evaluate the possible role of Avemar or Echinacea extracts in inducing mobilization and homing of CD34+ stem cells in relation to the inflammatory and hematopoietic cytokines in rats suffering from acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Methods AMI was developed by two consecutive subcutaneous injections of isoprenaline (85 mg/kg). AMI rats were either post-treated or pre- and post-treated daily with oral doses of Avemar (121 mg/kg) or Echinacea (130 mg/kg). In whole blood, the number of CD34+ cells was measured by flow cytometry and their homing to the myocardium was immunohistochemically assessed. Serum creatine kinase, vascular endothelial growth factor, interleukin-8 and granulocyte macrophage colony stimulating factor were determined on days 1, 7 and 14 after AMI. Sections of the myocardium were histopathologically assessed. Results Rats pre- and post-treated with Avemar or Echinacea exhibited substantial increases in the number of circulating CD34+ cells, peaking on the first day after AMI to approximately 13-fold and 15-fold, respectively, with a decline in their level on day 7 followed by a significant increase on day 14 compared to their corresponding AMI levels. Only post-treatment with Echinacea caused a time-dependent increase in circulating CD34+ cells on days 7 and 14. Such increases in circulating CD34+ cells were accompanied by increased homing to myocardial tissue 14 days after AMI. Interestingly, pre- and post-treatment with Avemar or Echinacea substantially increased serum creatine kinase on day 1, normalized its activity on day 7 and, on continued treatment, only Echinacea markedly increased its activity on day 14 compared to the corresponding AMI values. Moreover, both treatments modified differently the elevated serum vascular endothelial growth factor and the lowered granulocyte macrophage colony stimulating factor levels of the AMI group but did not affect the level of interleukin-8. These results were supported histopathologically by reduced inflammatory reactions and enhanced neovascularization. Conclusion Avemar and Echinacea extracts can effectively induce mobilization and homing of CD34+ stem cells to the myocardial tissue and thus may help in stem cell-based regeneration of the infarcted myocardium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maha Abdelmonem
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt.
| | - Samar H Kassem
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Physical Therapy, October 6 University, Cairo, Egypt.
| | - Hala Gabr
- Clinical Pathology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt.
| | - Amira A Shaheen
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt.
| | - Tarek Aboushousha
- Pathology Department, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, Cairo, Egypt.
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Wang CW, Wang CK, Chang YJ, Choong CY, Lin CS, Tai CJ, Tai CJ. Preclinical evaluation on the tumor suppression efficiency and combination drug effects of fermented wheat germ extract in human ovarian carcinoma cells. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE : ECAM 2015; 2015:570785. [PMID: 25815037 PMCID: PMC4359848 DOI: 10.1155/2015/570785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2014] [Accepted: 08/20/2014] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Fermented wheat germ extract (FWGE) is a nutrient supplement and a potential antitumor ingredient for developing an integrated chemotherapy with standard chemotherapeutic drugs for treating ovarian cancer patients. In this study, we evaluated the tumor suppression efficiency of FWGE in human ovarian carcinoma cells, SKOV-3 and ES-2, and found the half-maximal inhibitory concentrations (IC50s) to be 643.76 μg/mL and 246.11 μg/mL after 48 h of FWGE treatment. FWGE treatment also induced programmed cell death by activating the caspase-7 cleavage in both SKOV-3 and ES-2 cells, but only caspase-3 and poly(adenosine diphosphate-ribose) polymerase cleavages were activated in SKOV-3 cells. Moreover, FWGE exhibited combination drug effects with cisplatin and docetaxel in SKOV-3 and ES-2 cells by enhancing the cytotoxicity of both drugs. In conclusion, we found that FWGE not only suppressed cell growth but also induced caspase-3-related and caspase-7-related cell death in human ovarian carcinoma cells. FWGE treatment further enhanced the cytotoxicity of cisplatin and docetaxel, suggesting that FWGE is a potential ingredient in the development of adjuvant chemotherapy with cisplatin or docetaxel for treating ovarian cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chia-Woei Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei 110, Taiwan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
| | - Chien-Kai Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Taipei Medical University Hospital, 252 Wu Hsing Street, Taipei 110, Taiwan
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
- Department of Chinese Medicine, Taipei Medical University Hospital, 252 Wu Hsing Street, Taipei 110, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Jia Chang
- Cancer Research Center, Taipei Medical University and Hospital, Taipei 110, Taiwan
- Department of Surgery, Taipei Medical University and Hospital, Taipei 110, Taiwan
- Division of General Surgery, Department of Surgery, Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
| | - Chen-Yen Choong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
| | - Chi-Shian Lin
- Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
| | - Cheng-Jeng Tai
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Taipei Medical University Hospital, 252 Wu Hsing Street, Taipei 110, Taiwan
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
| | - Chen-Jei Tai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
- Department of Chinese Medicine, Taipei Medical University Hospital, 252 Wu Hsing Street, Taipei 110, Taiwan
- Traditional Herbal Medicine Research Center, Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei 110, Taiwan
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Shibuya N, Inoue KI, Tanaka G, Akimoto K, Kubota K. Augmented pentose phosphate pathway plays critical roles in colorectal carcinomas. Oncology 2015; 88:309-19. [PMID: 25591719 DOI: 10.1159/000369905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2014] [Accepted: 11/10/2014] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Glycolysis and the pentose phosphate pathway (PPP) are preferentially activated in cancer cells. Accumulating evidence indicated the significance of the altered glucose metabolism in cancer, but the implication for oncotherapy remains unclear. Here we report that the synthesis of glycolytic and PPP enzymes is almost ubiquitously augmented in colorectal carcinoma (CRC) specimens. The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitor INK128 (300 nM) and phytochemical Avemar (1 mg/ml) inhibited the synthesis of PPP enzymes in CRC cell lines. INK128 (150-600 nM) and resveratrol (75-300 μM) inhibited aerobic glycolysis in the cell lines. INK128 (300 nM) and Avemar (1 mg/ml) decreased the NADPH/NADP(+) ratio as well as the GSH/GSSG ratio in the cell lines. Finally, per os administration of INK128 (0.8 mg/kg) or Avemar (1 g/kg) suppressed tumor growth and delayed tumor formation by transplantable CRC specimens derived from patients. Taken together, pharmacological inhibition of the mTOR-PPP axis is a promising therapeutic strategy against CRCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Norisuke Shibuya
- Second Department of Surgery, Dokkyo Medical University, Mibu, Japan
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Song JH, Kim JK, Jang HD. Ferulic acid released by treatment with Aspergillus oryzae contributes to the cellular antioxidant capacity of wheat germ extract. Food Sci Biotechnol 2014. [DOI: 10.1007/s10068-014-0182-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
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22
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Fermented wheat germ extract induced cell death and enhanced cytotoxicity of Cisplatin and 5-Fluorouracil on human hepatocellular carcinoma cells. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2013; 2013:121725. [PMID: 24454483 PMCID: PMC3881523 DOI: 10.1155/2013/121725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2013] [Accepted: 10/08/2013] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common causes of cancer-related death worldwide. Due to the difficulties of early diagnosis, curative treatments are not available for most patients. Palliative treatments such as chemotherapy are often associated with low response rate, strong adverse effects and limited clinical benefits for patients. The alternative approaches such as fermented wheat germ extract (FWGE) with anti-tumor efficacy may provide improvements in the clinical outcome of current therapy for HCC. This study aimed to clarify antitumor efficacy of FWGE and the combination drug effect of FWGE with chemotherapeutic agents, cisplatin and 5-fluorouracil (5-Fu) in human HCC cells, HepG2, Hep3B, and HepJ5. The present study indicated that FWGE exhibited potential to suppress HepG2, Hep3B, and HepJ5 cells, with the half maximal inhibitory concentrations (IC50) of FWGE were 0.494, 0.371 and 1.524 mg/mL, respectively. FWGE also induced Poly (Adenosine diphosphate ribose) polymerase (PARP) associated cell death in Hep3B cells. Moreover, the FWGE treatment further enhanced the cytotoxicity of cisplatin in all tested HCC cells, and cytotoxicity of 5-Fu in a synergistic manner in HepJ5 cells. Collectively, the results identified the anti-tumor efficacy of FWGE in HCC cells and suggested that FWGE can be used as a supplement to effectively improve the tumor suppression efficiency of cisplatin and 5-Fu in HCC cells.
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Rizzello CG, Mueller T, Coda R, Reipsch F, Nionelli L, Curiel JA, Gobbetti M. Synthesis of 2-methoxy benzoquinone and 2,6-dimethoxybenzoquinone by selected lactic acid bacteria during sourdough fermentation of wheat germ. Microb Cell Fact 2013; 12:105. [PMID: 24215546 PMCID: PMC3831755 DOI: 10.1186/1475-2859-12-105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2013] [Accepted: 11/06/2013] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the last decade, several studies described the promising cytotoxic activity of fermented wheat germ towards cancer cell lines and during in vivo clinical trials. Recent data suggested that the antiproliferative, antimetastatic and immunological effects of this preparation are mainly attributed to quinones. This study aimed at exploiting the potential of sourdough lactic acid bacteria fermentation to release 2-methoxy benzoquinone, and 2,6-dimethoxybenzoquinone, which are naturally present in wheat germ as glycosylated and non-physiologically active form. RESULTS Preliminarily, forty strains of lactic acid bacteria, previously isolated from wheat germ, were in vitro screened based on β-glucosidase activity. Lactobacillus plantarum LB1 and Lactobacillus rossiae LB5 were selected based on the highest enzyme activity and on technology features. These strains were used in combination to ferment wheat germ. Raw wheat germ, without bacterial inoculum, was subjected to the same incubation and used as the control. The sourdough fermented wheat germ was characterized based on microbiological, physico-chemical and biochemical features. During incubation, the release of the non-glycosylated and physiologically active 2-methoxy benzoquinone, and 2,6-dimethoxybenzoquinone was almost completed during 24 h. Compared to the control, the concentration of the above bioactive compounds increased almost 4 and 6-folds. Both raw wheat germ (control) and sourdough fermented wheat germ were ex vivo assayed for the anti-proliferative activity towards various cell lines of germ cell tumor, colon carcinoma and ovarian carcinoma. While no effect was found for the raw wheat germ, the sourdough fermented preparation markedly and variously affected the human tumor cell lines. The values of IC50 ranged from 0.105 ± 0.005 to 0.556 ± 0.071 mg/ml, with a median value of IC50 of 0.302 mg/ml. CONCLUSIONS These results are comparable to those found for other well-known pharmaceutical preparations, and may disclose the use of the sourdough fermented wheat germ as an ingredient, nutritional supplement and/or anticancer drug.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Giuseppe Rizzello
- Dipartimento di Scienze del Suolo, della Pianta e degli Alimenti, University of Bari, 70126 Bari, Italy
| | - Thomas Mueller
- Department of Internal Medicine IV, Oncology/Hematology, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle/Saale, Germany
| | - Rossana Coda
- Dipartimento di Scienze del Suolo, della Pianta e degli Alimenti, University of Bari, 70126 Bari, Italy
| | - Franziska Reipsch
- Department of Internal Medicine IV, Oncology/Hematology, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle/Saale, Germany
| | - Luana Nionelli
- Dipartimento di Scienze del Suolo, della Pianta e degli Alimenti, University of Bari, 70126 Bari, Italy
| | - José Antonio Curiel
- Dipartimento di Scienze del Suolo, della Pianta e degli Alimenti, University of Bari, 70126 Bari, Italy
| | - Marco Gobbetti
- Dipartimento di Scienze del Suolo, della Pianta e degli Alimenti, University of Bari, 70126 Bari, Italy
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Mueller T, Voigt W. Fermented wheat germ extract--nutritional supplement or anticancer drug? Nutr J 2011; 10:89. [PMID: 21892933 PMCID: PMC3179707 DOI: 10.1186/1475-2891-10-89] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2011] [Accepted: 09/05/2011] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Fermented wheat germ extract (FWGE) is a multisubstance composition and, besides others, contains 2-methoxy benzoquinone and 2, 6-dimethoxy benzoquinone which are likely to exert some of its biological effects. FWGE interferes with anaerobic glycolysis, pentose cycle and ribonucleotide reductase. It has significant antiproliferative effects and kills tumor cells by the induction of apoptosis via the caspase-poly [ADP-ribose] polymerase-pathway. FWGE interacts synergistically with a variety of different anticancer drugs and exerted antimetastatic properties in mouse models. In addition, FWGE modulates immune response by downregulation of MHC-I complex and the induction of TNF-α and various interleukins. Data in the F-344 rat model provide evidence for a colon cancer preventing effect of FWGE. Clinical data from a randomized phase II trial in melanoma patients indicate a significant benefit for patients treated with dacarbazine in combination with FWGE in terms of progression free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS). Similarly, data from studies in colorectal cancer suggested a benefit of FWGE treatment. Besides extension of OS and PFS, FWGE improved the quality of life in several studies. Conclusion In conclusion, available data so far, justify the use of FWGE as a non-prescription medical nutriment for cancer patients. Further randomized, controlled and large scale clinical studies are mandatory, to further clarify the value of FWGE as a drug component of future chemotherapy regimens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Mueller
- University of Halle, Department of Internal Medicine, Oncology/Hematology and Hemostaseology, Halle/Saale, Germany
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Kim TH, Kim EK, Lee MS, Lee HK, Hwang WS, Choe SJ, Kim TY, Han SJ, Kim HJ, Kim DJ, Lee KW. Intake of brown rice lees reduces waist circumference and improves metabolic parameters in type 2 diabetes. Nutr Res 2011; 31:131-8. [PMID: 21419317 DOI: 10.1016/j.nutres.2011.01.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2010] [Revised: 12/24/2010] [Accepted: 01/24/2011] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Intake of whole grains has been associated with lower risks of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Brown rice is unrefined whole grain and is produced by removing the outermost layers containing the germ and bran, which are rich in nutrients including dietary fiber, vitamins, minerals, and other unmeasured dietary constituents. The lees of brown rice (LB) are by-products of its fermentation in the process of manufacturing takju, a Korean turbid rice wine. In this study, we hypothesized that intake of LB would reduce waist circumference, a strong risk factor for cardiovascular disease in type 2 diabetic patients. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study was scheduled for 12 weeks. Thirty subjects were randomly assigned to receive a supplement prepared from the LB or from a mixed-grain dietary product (MG). Body weight, waist circumference, body composition, lipid profiles, and other laboratory parameters were measured. The LB group showed greater reduction in waist circumference (LB: 87.9 ± 8.8 to 85.1 ± 9.0 cm; MG: 86.9 ± 8.8 to 86.0 ± 9.3 cm; P = .032). In addition, the consumption of LB resulted in a significantly greater decrease in the level of aspartate transaminase (LB: 25.4 ± 8.5 to 21.0 ± 5.1 IU/mL; MG: 22.5 ± 5.3 to 22.4 ± 5.7 IU/mL; P = .044) and alanine transaminase (LB: 28.6 ± 11.3 to 21.9 ± 8.2 IU/mL; MG: 24.4 ± 7.5 to 24.5 ± 9.9 IU/mL; P = .038). Consumption of the LB was associated with a decreased waist circumference in type 2 diabetic patients. Further study is required to evaluate the metabolic effect of the extract of the LB in type 2 diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tae Ho Kim
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kwandong University, College of Medicine, Myongji Hospital, Goyang, Gyeonggi-do 112-270, Republic of Korea
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Boo HJ, Hyun JH, Kim SC, Kang JI, Kim MK, Kim SY, Cho H, Yoo ES, Kang HK. Fucoidan from Undaria pinnatifida induces apoptosis in A549 human lung carcinoma cells. Phytother Res 2011; 25:1082-6. [PMID: 21452391 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.3489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2024]
Abstract
Fucoidan, a sulfated polysaccharide, has various biological activities, such as anticancer, antiangiogenic and antiinflammatory effects; however, the mechanisms of action of fucoidan on anticancer activity have not been fully elucidated. The anticancer effects of fucoidan from Undaria pinnatifida on A549 human lung carcinoma cells were examined. Treatment of A549 cells with fucoidan resulted in potent antiproliferative activity. Also, some typical apoptotic characteristics, such as chromatin condensation and an increase in the population of sub-G1 hypodiploid cells, were observed. With respect to the mechanism underlying the induction of apoptosis, fucoidan reduced Bcl-2 expression, but the expression of Bax was increased in a dose-dependent manner compared with the controls. Furthermore, fucoidan induced caspase-9 activation, but decreased the level of procaspase-3. Cleavage of poly-ADP-ribose polymerase (PARP), a vital substrate of effector caspase, was found. The study further investigated the role of the MAPK and PI3K/Akt pathways with respect to the apoptotic effect of fucoidan, and showed that fucoidan activates ERK1/2 in A549 cells. Unlike ERK1/2, however, treatment with fucoidan resulted in the down-regulation of phospho-p38 expression. In addition, fucoidan resulted in the down-regulation of phospho-PI3K/Akt. Together, these results indicate that fucoidan induces apoptosis of A549 human lung cancer cells through down-regulation of p38, PI3K/Akt, and the activation of the ERK1/2 MAPK pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hye-Jin Boo
- School of Medicine, Institute of Medical Sciences, Jeju National University, 66 Jejudaehakno, Jeju 690-756, South Korea
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Mueller T, Jordan K, Voigt W. Promising cytotoxic activity profile of fermented wheat germ extract (Avemar®) in human cancer cell lines. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL & CLINICAL CANCER RESEARCH : CR 2011; 30:42. [PMID: 21496306 PMCID: PMC3104483 DOI: 10.1186/1756-9966-30-42] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2011] [Accepted: 04/16/2011] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Fermented wheat germ extract (FWGE) is currently used as nutrition supplement for cancer patients. Limited recent data suggest antiproliferative, antimetastatic and immunological effects which were at least in part exerted by two quinones, 2-methoxy benzoquinone and 2,6-dimethoxybenzquinone as ingredients of FWGE. These activity data prompted us to further evaluate the in vitro antiproliferative activity of FWGE alone or in combination with the commonly used cytotoxic drugs 5-FU, oxaliplatin or irinotecan in a broad spectrum of human tumor cell lines. We used the sulforhodamine B assay to determine dose response relationships and IC50-values were calculated using the Hill equation. Drug interaction of simultaneous and sequential drug exposure was estimated using the model of Drewinko and potential clinical activity was assessed by the model of relative antitumor activity (RAA). Apoptosis was detected by DNA gel electrophoresis. FWGE induced apoptosis and exerted significant antitumor activity in a broad spectrum of 32 human cancer cell lines. The highest activity was found in neuroblastoma cell lines with an average IC50 of 0.042 mg/ml. Furthermore, IC50-range was very narrow ranging from 0.3 mg/ml to 0.54 mg/ml in 8 colon cancer cell lines. At combination experiments in colon cancer cell lines when FWGE was simultaneously applied with either 5-FU, oxaliplatin or irinotecan we observed additive to synergistic drug interaction, particularly for 5-FU. At sequential drug exposure with 5-FU and FWGE the observed synergism was abolished. Taken together, FWGE exerts significant antitumor activity in our tumor model. Simultaneous drug exposure with FWGE and 5-FU, oxaliplatin or irinotecan yielded in additive to synergistic drug interaction. However, sequential drug exposure of 5-FU and FWGE in colon cancer cell lines appeared to be schedule-dependent (5-FU may precede FWGE). Further evaluation of FWGE as a candidate for clinical combination drug regimens appeared to be warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Mueller
- University of Halle, Department Internal Medicine, Oncology/Hematology and Hemostaseology, Ernst-Grube Str, 40, 06120 Halle/Saale, Germany
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Iyer A, Brown L. Fermented wheat germ extract (avemar) in the treatment of cardiac remodeling and metabolic symptoms in rats. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2011; 2011:508957. [PMID: 19622599 PMCID: PMC3135775 DOI: 10.1093/ecam/nep090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2009] [Accepted: 06/25/2009] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Avemar, a product of industrial fermentation of wheat germ with a standardized content of benzoquinone and plant flavonoids, has been tested as an anti-cancer and immunomodulatory dietary supplement. Proposed mechanisms include anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory actions. This study has determined whether these actions of Avemar may also be useful in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases. Two experimental rat models of cardiovascular remodeling were used in this project: the deoxycorticosterone acetate (DOCA)-salt-induced model of chronic hypertension (study I) and a high-carbohydrate/high-fat diet-induced model producing chronic symptoms of the metabolic syndrome and its associated cardiovascular complications (study II). Our results in these rat models of hypertension and diet-induced obesity show that treatment with Avemar improved cardiac function, decreased macrophage infiltration resulting in decreased collagen deposition in the ventricular myocardium, reversed an increased stiffness of the left ventricle in the diseased hearts and attenuated increased plasma malondialdehyde concentrations. In addition to the changes in the heart, Avemar reversed glucose intolerance, normalized systolic blood pressure and decreased visceral fat deposition in rats fed a high-fat/high-carbohydrate diet. In conclusion, the fermented wheat germ extract Avemar has a potential role in attenuating chronic hypertension, diabetes or metabolic syndrome-induced cardiovascular symptoms along with metabolic abnormalities such as glucose tolerance and obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abishek Iyer
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, 4072, Australia
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Telekes A, Hegedus M, Chae CH, Vékey K. Avemar (wheat germ extract) in cancer prevention and treatment. Nutr Cancer 2010; 61:891-9. [PMID: 20155632 DOI: 10.1080/01635580903285114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Many healthy foods are derived from wheat germ. The molecular composition of these products, however, greatly differs as shown by normal-phase HPLC-mass spectrometry analysis; thus, experimental data obtained by one of them is not necessarily true for the other. Avemar is a nontoxic wheat germ extract registered as a special nutriment for cancer patients in Hungary. It shows potent anticancer activity on cell lines by deeply interfering with glucose metabolism and affecting expressions of several kinases. In in vivo experimental models, Avemar is also effective by enhancing the activity of the immune system such as stimulating NK cell activity (by reducing MHC I molecule expression), enhancing TNF secretion of the macrophages, increasing ICAM 1 molecule expression on the vascular endothelial cells. All of these lead to apoptosis of tumor cells. The wide range of biological activity of Avemar probably cannot be explained by only one active ingredient. Since there are numerous experimental data and the clinical benefit repeatedly confirmed Avemar can be one of the most potent and best researched food supplements available for cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- András Telekes
- Department of Oncology, Bajcsy-Zsilinszky Municipal Hospital, Budapest, Hungary.
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Jang JH, Kim CY, Lim SH, Yang CH, Song KS, Han HS, Lee HK, Lee J. Neuroprotective effects of Triticum aestivum L. against beta-amyloid-induced cell death and memory impairments. Phytother Res 2010; 24:76-84. [PMID: 19441012 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.2871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
beta-Amyloid (A beta) is a key component of senile plaques, neuropathological hallmarks of Alzheimer's disease (AD) and has been reported to induce cell death via oxidative stress. This study investigated the protective effects of Triticum aestivum L. (TAL) on A beta-induced apoptosis in SH-SY5Y cells and cognitive dysfunctions in Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats. Cells treated with A beta exhibited decreased viability and apoptotic features, such as DNA fragmentation, alterations in mitochondria and an increased Bax/Bcl-2 ratio, which were attenuated by TAL extract (TALE) pretreatment. To elucidate the neuroprotective mechanisms of TALE, the study examined A beta-induced oxidative stress and cellular defense. TALE pretreatment suppressed A beta-increased intracellular accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) via up-regulation of glutathione, an essential endogenous antioxidant. To further verify the effect of TALE on memory impairments, A beta or scopolamine was injected in SD rats and a water maze task conducted as a spatial memory test. A beta or scopolamine treatment increased the time taken to find the platform during training trials, which was decreased by TALE pretreatment. Furthermore, one of the active components of TALE, total dietary fiber also effectively inhibited A beta-induced cytotoxicity and scopolamine-caused memory deficits. These results suggest that TALE may have preventive and/or therapeutic potential in the management of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jung-Hee Jang
- College of Oriental Medicine, Daegu Haany University, Sang-dong, Suseong-gu, Daegu 706-060, Korea
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Abstract
Conventional wisdom generally recommends complete avoidance of all dietary supplements, especially during chemotherapy and radiation. This interdiction persists, in spite of high rates of dietary supplement use by patients throughout all phases of cancer care, and can result in patients' perceptions of physicians as negative, thus leading to widespread nondisclosure of use. A review of the clinical literature shows that some evidence for harm does exist; however, data also exist that show benefit from using certain well-qualified supplements. Physicians should increase their knowledge base about dietary supplement use in cancer and consider all of the data when advising patients. Strategies that are patient-centered and reflect the complete array of available evidence lead to more nuanced messages about dietary supplement use in cancer. This should encourage greater disclosure of use by patients and ultimately increase safety and efficacy for patients choosing to use dietary supplements during cancer care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary L Hardy
- Simms/Mann-UCLA Center for Integrative Oncology, University of California at Los Angeles, 200 UCLA Medical Plaza, Suite 502 Los Angeles, CA 90095-9615, USA.
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Demidov LV, Manziuk LV, Kharkevitch GY, Pirogova NA, Artamonova EV. Adjuvant Fermented Wheat Germ Extract (Avemar™) Nutraceutical Improves Survival of High-Risk Skin Melanoma Patients: A Randomized, Pilot, Phase II Clinical Study with a 7-Year Follow-Up. Cancer Biother Radiopharm 2008; 23:477-82. [DOI: 10.1089/cbr.2008.0486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Lev V. Demidov
- Melanoma Unit, Department of General Surgery, N.N. Blokhin Cancer Research Center, Russian Academy of Medical Sciences, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Ljudmila V. Manziuk
- Melanoma Unit, Department of General Surgery, N.N. Blokhin Cancer Research Center, Russian Academy of Medical Sciences, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Galina Y. Kharkevitch
- Department of New Anticancer Drug Investigation, N.N. Blokhin Cancer Research Center, Russian Academy of Medical Sciences, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Nina A. Pirogova
- Department of Medical Statistics, N.N. Blokhin Cancer Research Center, Russian Academy of Medical Sciences, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Elena V. Artamonova
- Department of New Anticancer Drug Investigation, N.N. Blokhin Cancer Research Center, Russian Academy of Medical Sciences, Moscow, Russian Federation
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Saiko P, Ozsvar-Kozma M, Madlener S, Bernhaus A, Lackner A, Grusch M, Horvath Z, Krupitza G, Jaeger W, Ammer K, Fritzer-Szekeres M, Szekeres T. Avemar, a nontoxic fermented wheat germ extract, induces apoptosis and inhibits ribonucleotide reductase in human HL-60 promyelocytic leukemia cells. Cancer Lett 2007; 250:323-8. [PMID: 17137710 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2006.10.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2006] [Revised: 10/04/2006] [Accepted: 10/23/2006] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Avemar (MSC) is a nontoxic fermented wheat germ extract demonstrated to significantly improve the survival rate in patients suffering from various malignancies. We investigated its effects in human HL-60 promyelocytic leukemia cells. After 24, 48, and 72 h of incubation, Avemar inhibited the growth of HL-60 cells with IC50 values of 400, 190, and 160 microg/ml, respectively. Incubation with MSC caused dose-dependent induction of apoptosis in up to 85% of tumor cells. In addition, Avemar attenuated the progression from G2-M to G0-G1 phase of the cell cycle and was also found to significantly reduce the in situ activity of ribonucleotide reductase, the key enzyme of de novo DNA synthesis. We conclude that Avemar exerts a number of beneficial effects which could support conventional chemotherapy of human malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philipp Saiko
- Clinical Institute of Medical and Chemical Laboratory Diagnostics, Medical University of Vienna, General Hospital of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, A-1090 Vienna, Austria
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