Immunomodulatory and antimicrobial effects of some traditional chinese medicinal herbs: a review

Regulatory effects of Astragalus membranaceus polysaccharides on lipid metabolism disorders induced by a high-fat diet in spotted sea bass (Lateolabrax maculatus)

This study evaluated the regulatory effects of Astragalus membranaceus polysaccharides (AMP) on lipid metabolism disorders induced by a high-fat diet (HFD) in spotted sea bass (Lateolabrax maculatus). Compared with the normal diets (10 % lipids), diets containing 15 % lipid levels were used as the high-fat diet (HFD). Three levels of the AMP (0.06 %, 0.08 %, 0.10 %) were added in the HFD and used as experimental diets. A total of 375 spotted sea bass (average weight 3.00 ± 0.01 g) were divided into 15 tanks and deemed as 5 groups, with each tank containing 25 fish. Fish in each group were fed with different diets for 56 days. After feeding, the HFD induced lipid metabolism disorders in fish, as evidenced by elevated serum lipids, malonaldehyde levels, and more severe liver damage. The AMP alleviated the HFD-induced liver damage, as evidenced by the reduced severity of liver histological lesions and malonaldehyde levels. The low-density lipoprotein cholesterol was reduced, and the expression of FAS and PPAR-α were down and up-regulated, respectively. However, the AMP had a limited ability to affect the serum lipids and abdominal fat percentage. These results reveal the potential of the AMP used in aquaculture to regulate lipid metabolism disorders induced by the HFD.

Dietary supplementation of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) diets with bay laurel (Laurus nobilis): alleviation of oxidative stress and amelioration of immune response, serum biochemistry, and resistance against Aeromonas hydrophila

Herbal plants can enhance immunity and alleviate oxidative stress in fish. Therefore, the present work was performed to evaluate the effects of bay laurel (Laurus nobilis) on growth, immunity, antioxidant activities, disease resistance, and hematology in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). A total of 225 Nile tilapia fingerlings (average weight 15.36 ± 0.04 g) were divided into five treatment groups and fed with bay laurel at 0, 10, 15, 20, and 25 g/kg diet for 90 days. A completely randomized design with three replications was applied. The significantly (p < 0.05) improved weight growth (WG), food conversion ratio (FCR), average daily growth (ADG), protein efficiency ratio (PER), and survival rate were observed in fish fed with bay laurel-supplemented diet at the rate of 15 g/kg. Significantly improved red blood cells (RBCs) count, white blood cells (WBCs), hemoglobin (Hb), and significantly declined alanine aminotransaminase (ALT) and aspartate transaminase (AST) were found in the same diet-fed group. The immune response parameters such as nitro blue tetrazolium (NBT), lysozyme activity, phagocytic activity, total serum protein, serum albumin, serum globulin, and albumin-globulin ratio were found significantly improved at 15 g/kg bay laurel supplemented diet. The improved antioxidant response (catalase, glutathione peroxidase, malondialdehyde, total antioxidant activity) was also observed in the same diet-fed group. Relative percent survival after the fish challenged against Aeromonas hydrophila was significantly (p < 0.05) different. Overall, bay laurel supplementation at a 15 g/kg diet improved the nutritional physiology and immunity and, therefore, could be a potential growth-promoting feed additive for aquaculture development.

Supplementation of ginger root extract into broiler chicken diet: effects on growth performance and immunocompetence

Ginger contains bioactive compounds that possess anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. In this study, 432-day-old Ross 708 broiler male chicks were randomly allocated to 6 dietary treatments to investigate the effect of ginger root extract (GRE) on immunocompetence and growth performance to 6 wk of age. Treatment 1 (CON) consisted of chicks fed a corn-soybean meal (SBM), a base diet without GRE. Treatment 2 (MX) chicks were given basal diets containing bacitracin methylene disalicylate (BMD) at 0.055 g/kg. Treatments 3 (GRE-0.375%), 4 (GRE-0.75%), 5 (GRE-1.5%), and 6 (GRE-3%) were fed similar diet to control with GRE supplemented at 0.375%, 0.75%, 1.5%, and 3%, respectively. Moreover, HPLC analysis of GRE was carried out to determine the concentration of bioactive compounds found in GRE. Each treatment consisted of 6 replicate pens with 12 chicks/pen. Bodyweight (BW) and feed conversion ratio (FCR) were recorded. Results show that the concentration of bioactive compounds increased with increasing GRE supplementation. Likewise, dietary GRE supplementation did not have any detrimental effect on growth performance parameters up to 1.5%, as values for BWG was not different from CON and MX; however, 3% GRE had the poorest FCR and a lower BWG as compared to other treatments. On d 27 and d 41, fecal and cecal concentrations of total bacteria count (TBC), Escherichia coli, Lactobacillus spp., and Bifidobacterium spp enumerated using selective plating media showed that GRE supplementation significantly reduced (P < 0.05) the amount of TBC and E. coli but increased the number of beneficial microorganisms such as Lactobacillus spp. and Bifidobacterium spp. On d 20, no significant differences were observed (P > 0.05) among all treatments for antibody titer against Newcastle disease virus and total IgY antibodies; however, on d 27, GRE-0.75% had the highest value for both immune indicators and was not different from MX. Dietary supplementation of GRE up to 1.5% enhanced the immune system and suppressed E. coli while promoting the growth of healthy bacteria, without any detrimental effect on growth performance.

How to Naturally Support the Immune System in Inflammation-Essential Oils as Immune Boosters

Efficient functionality of the immune system is needed to fight against the development of infectious diseases, including, among others, serious recurrent chronic infections. Research has shown that many modern common diseases, such as inflammatory bowel diseases and cardiovascular diseases, e.g., thromboembolism, cancer, obesity, or depression, are connected with inflammatory processes. Therefore, new, good stimulators of the immune system's response are sought. They include synthetic compounds as well as biological preparations such as lipopolysaccharides, enzymes, bacterial metabolites, and secondary metabolites of plants, demonstrating a multidirectional effect. Essential oils are characterized by many invaluable activities, including antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunostimulating. Essential oils may stimulate the immune system via the utilization of their constituents, such as antibodies, cytokines, and dendritic cells. Some essential oils may stimulate the proliferation of immune-competent cells, including polymorphonuclear leukocytes, macrophages, dendritic cells, natural killer cells, and B and T lymphocytes. This review is focused on the ability of essential oils to affect the immune system. It is also possible that essential oil components positively interact with recommended anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial drugs. Thus, there is a need to explore possible synergies between essential oils and their active ingredients for medical use.

Effects of Astragalus membranaceus Polysaccharides on Growth Performance, Physiological and Biochemical Parameters, and Expression of Genes Related to Lipid Metabolism of Spotted Sea Bass, Lateolabrax maculatus

This experiment investigated the effects of Astragalus membranaceus polysaccharides (AMP) on growth, physiological and biochemical parameters, and the expression of lipid metabolism-related genes in spotted sea bass, Lateolabrax maculatus. A total of 450 spotted sea bass (10.44 ± 0.09 g) were divided into six groups and were given diets with different levels of AMP (0, 0.2, 0.4, 0.6, 0.8, and 1.0 g/kg) for 28 days, respectively. Results indicated that dietary intake of AMP significantly improved fish weight gain, specific growth rate, feed conversion, and trypsin activity. Meanwhile, fish fed with AMP manifested significantly higher serum total antioxidant capacity and activity of hepatic superoxide dismutase, catalase, and lysozyme. Lower triglyceride and total cholesterol were noted in fish fed with AMP (P < 0.05). Moreover, hepatic ACC1 and ACC2 were downregulated by dietary intake of AMP, and PPAR-α, CPT1, and HSL were upregulated accordingly (P < 0.05). Parameters with significant difference were analyzed by quadratic regression analysis, and results showed that 0.6881 g/kg of AMP is the optimal dosage for spotted sea bass in size (10.44 ± 0.09 g). In conclusion, dietary intake of AMP can improve the growth, physiological status, and lipid metabolism of spotted sea bass, thereby indicating its promise as a potential dietary supplement.

Lycium barbarum polysaccharides improve lipid metabolism disorders of spotted sea bass Lateolabrax maculatus induced by high lipid diet

This experiment explored the effects of Lycium barbarum polysaccharides (LBP) on lipid metabolism of spotted sea bass Lateolabrax maculatus. Blank and experimental control diets with 100 and 150 g/kg lipid were designed, respectively, and three dosages of LBP (0.75, 1.00, 1.25 g/kg) were supplemented in the experimental control diet. A total 375 of spotted sea bass (19.33 ± 0.15) g were divided into 5 groups, and were given experimental diets for 56 days, respectively. Results showed fish were induced to lipid metabolism disorders with dietary 150 g/kg lipid intake, which manifested in reduced feeding, oxidative stress, elevated serum lipid, and more severe hepatic damage. Dietary LBP improved the lipid metabolism disorders of fish, as indicated by significant enhancements in weight gain, digestion, superoxide dismutase activity, and decreases in malonaldehyde content, and activity of alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase. Accordingly, an improvement in the hepatic morphological and expression of lipid metabolism related genes, including FAS, PPAR-α, CPT1 and ATGL, was observed. Nevertheless, no significant variation in serum triglyceride and total cholesterol was observed. Overall, dietary LBP can improve the growth, digestion, antioxidant capacity, and liver health of spotted sea bass, thereby improving the lipid metabolism disorders induced by 150 g/kg dietary lipid intake.

Immunopathological studies on Escherichia coli infected broiler chickens fed on Aloe vera leaf extract

Escherichia coli infection is the major bacterial disease affecting the poultry industry and the continuous use of antibiotics in poultry farming has resulted in antibiotic resistance. So this study was planned to evaluate the use of an ecologically safe alternative to fight against infections. The leaf gel of the Aloe vera plant was selected based on its antibacterial activity assessed in in-vitro tests. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the effect of A. vera leaf extract supplementation on the severity of clinical signs and pathological lesions, mortality rate, levels of antioxidant enzymes, and immune response in experimentally E. coli-infected broiler chicks. Broiler chicks were supplemented with aqueous Aloe vera Leaf (AVL) extract @ 20 ml per liter of water from day one of age. After seven days of age, they were experimentally infected with E. coli O78 @ 10⁷ CFU/0.5 ml intraperitoneally. Blood was collected at weekly intervals up to 28 days and assayed for antioxidant enzyme assays, and humoral and cellular immune response. The birds were observed daily for clinical signs and mortality. Dead birds were examined for gross lesions and representative tissues were processed for histopathology. The activities of antioxidants, Glutathione reductase (GR), and Glutathione-S-Transferase (GST) were significantly higher than the control infected group. The E. coli-specific antibody titer and Lymphocyte stimulation Index were comparatively higher in the AVL extract-supplemented infected group as compared to the control infected group. No considerable change was noted in the severity of clinical signs and pathological lesions, and mortality. Thus, Aloe vera Leaf gel extract enhanced the antioxidant activities and cellular immune responses of infected broiler chicks to combat this infection.

Re-Examination of the Holotype of Ganoderma sichuanense (Ganodermataceae, Polyporales) and a Clarification of the Identity of Chinese Cultivated Lingzhi

The widely cultivated Chinese Lingzhi is a famous fungus with significant medicinal and economic value, which has commonly been misidentified as Ganoderma lucidum for a long period of time. The scientific binomial of the fungus is always a hotly debated question that revolves around G. lingzhi and G. sichuanense. To interpret the species concept of the taxon, six specific primers for G. sichuanense and one universal primer were designed. Through directed and nested PCRs, we obtained nine ITS sequences from the holotype (HMAS 42798) of G. sichuanense. By genome sequencing, the ITS sequence of the first cultivated Lingzhi (HMAS 25103) was assembled. Based on a phylogenetic study of the genus Ganoderma, the correct name for widely cultivated Ganoderma species in China was confirmed as G. sichuanense, and G. lingzhi should be a later synonym.

Natural Medicine a Promising Candidate in Combating Microbial Biofilm

Studies on biofilm-related infections are gaining prominence owing to their involvement in most clinical infections and seriously threatening global public health. A biofilm is a natural form of bacterial growth ubiquitous in ecological niches, considered to be a generic survival mechanism adopted by both pathogenic and non-pathogenic microorganisms and entailing heterogeneous cell development within the matrix. In the ecological niche, quorum sensing is a communication channel that is crucial to developing biofilms. Biofilm formation leads to increased resistance to unfavourable ecological effects, comprising resistance to antibiotics and antimicrobial agents. Biofilms are frequently combated with modern conventional medicines such as antibiotics, but at present, they are considered inadequate for the treatment of multi-drug resistance; therefore, it is vital to discover some new antimicrobial agents that can prevent the production and growth of biofilm, in addition to minimizing the side effects of such therapies. In the search for some alternative and safe therapies, natural plant-derived phytomedicines are gaining popularity among the research community. Phytomedicines are natural agents derived from natural plants. These plant-derived agents may include flavonoids, terpenoids, lectins, alkaloids, polypeptides, polyacetylenes, phenolics, and essential oils. Since they are natural agents, they cause minimal side effects, so could be administered with dose flexibility. It is vital to discover some new antimicrobial agents that can control the production and growth of biofilms. This review summarizes and analyzes the efficacy characteristics and corresponding mechanisms of natural-product-based antibiofilm agents, i.e., phytochemicals, biosurfactants, antimicrobial peptides, and their sources, along with their mechanism, quorum sensing signalling pathways, disrupting extracellular matrix adhesion. The review also provides some other strategies to inhibit biofilm-related illness. The prepared list of newly discovered natural antibiofilm agents could help in devising novel strategies for biofilm-associated infections.

Andrographis paniculata improves growth and non-specific immunity of shrimp Litopenaeus vannamei, and protects it from Vibrio alginolyticus by reducing oxidative stress and apoptosis

Andrographis paniculata (AP) is a traditional medicinal plant with many pharmacological activities, including anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, immunity stimulation and so on. Several studies have reported that AP plays a strong role in promoting the immune system of aquatic animals to resist several pathogens. In the present study, we investigate the effects of a diet containing AP on the immune responses, growth, and the resistance to Vibrio alginolyticus (V. alginolyticus) in Litopenaeus vannamei (L. vannamei). Four diets were formulated by adding AP at the dosage of 0% (Control), 0.25%, 0.5%, and 1% in the basal diet, respectively. Each diet was randomly fed to one group with three replicates of shrimps in a 28-day feeding trial. The results showed that dietary AP improved the growth performance and non-specific immune function of shrimps. To investigate the effect of AP on disease resistance of L. vannamei, shrimps fed with diet containing AP were challenged with V. alginolyticus. Compared with the control group, the shrimps fed diet containing AP showed significantly higher survival. Furthermore, the hepatopancreas injury in the shrimp fed with AP was less than control group at 6 h after V. alginolyticus infection. However, no difference was observed in the degree of hepatopancreas injury between AP groups and control group at 12 h and 24 h after V. alginolyticus infection. Based on this result, the samples at 6 h after V. alginolyticus infection was selected for subsequent detection. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation in hemocytes and O₂^- production in hepatopancreas caused by V. alginolyticus infection was significantly reduced after feeding a diet containing 0.25% and 0.5% AP (p < 0.05). In addition, we found that feeding AP significantly up-regulated the expression of pro-apoptotic genes (Bax, Caspase 3, p53) and down-regulated the expression of anti-apoptotic genes (Bcl-2) in hepatopancreas after V. alginolyticus infection. In conclusion, AP promote the growth and immunity of L. vannamei, and protects shrimps against V. alginolyticus by regulating the oxidative damage and apoptosis. These results provide useful information regarding the effects of AP extracts as a shrimp feed additive for sustainable shrimp culture.

Leaky Gut and the Ingredients That Help Treat It: A Review

The human body is in daily contact with potentially toxic and infectious substances in the gastrointestinal tract (GIT). The GIT has the most significant load of antigens. The GIT can protect the intestinal integrity by allowing the passage of beneficial agents and blocking the path of harmful substances. Under normal conditions, a healthy intestinal barrier prevents toxic elements from entering the blood stream. However, factors such as stress, an unhealthy diet, excessive alcohol, antibiotics, and drug consumption can compromise the composition of the intestinal microbiota and the homeostasis of the intestinal barrier function of the intestine, leading to increased intestinal permeability. Intestinal hyperpermeability can allow the entry of harmful agents through the junctions of the intestinal epithelium, which pass into the bloodstream and affect various organs and systems. Thus, leaky gut syndrome and intestinal barrier dysfunction are associated with intestinal diseases, such as inflammatory bowel disease and irritable bowel syndrome, as well as extra-intestinal diseases, including heart diseases, obesity, type 1 diabetes mellitus, and celiac disease. Given the relationship between intestinal permeability and numerous conditions, it is convenient to seek an excellent strategy to avoid or reduce the increase in intestinal permeability. The impact of dietary nutrients on barrier function can be crucial for designing new strategies for patients with the pathogenesis of leaky gut-related diseases associated with epithelial barrier dysfunctions. In this review article, the role of functional ingredients is suggested as mediators of leaky gut-related disorders.

Geraniol-a potential alternative to antibiotics for bovine mastitis treatment without disturbing the host microbial community or causing drug residues and resistance

Mastitis is one of the most prevalent diseases of dairy cows. Currently, mastitis treatment in dairy cows is mainly based on antibiotics. However, the use of antibiotics causes adverse effects, including drug resistance, drug residues, host-microbiome destruction, and environmental pollution. The present study sought to investigate the potentiality of geraniol as an alternative to antibiotics for bovine mastitis treatment in dairy cows. Additionally, the effectiveness of treatment, improvement in inflammatory factors, the influence on microbiome, presence of drug residues, and drug resistance induction were compared and analyzed comprehensively.Geraniol showed an equivalent therapeutic rate as antibiotics in the mouse infection model and cows with mastitis. Moreover, geraniol significantly inhibited the pathogenic bacteria and restored the microbial community while increasing the abundance of probiotics in milk. Notably, geraniol did not destroy the gut microbial communities in cows and mice, whereas antibiotics significantly reduced the diversity and destroyed the gut microbial community structure. Additionally, no geraniol residue was detected in milk four days after treatment discontinuation, but, antibiotic residues were detected in milk at the 7th day after drug withdrawal. In vitro experiments revealed that geraniol did not induce drug resistance in the Escherichia coli strain ATCC25922 and Staphylococcus aureus strain ATCC25923 after 150 generations of culturing, while antibiotics induced resistance after 10 generations. These results suggest that geraniol has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects similar to antibiotics without affecting the host-microbial community structure or causing drug residues and resistance. Therefore, geraniol can be a potential substitute for antibiotics to treat mastitis or other infectious diseases and be widely used in the dairy industry.

Extract of Laurus nobilis attenuates inflammation and epithelial ulcerations in an experimental model of inflammatory bowel disease

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), including Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, are classified as chronic inflammatory disorders and typically require anti-inflammatory drug therapies, such as glucocorticoid regimens, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and biologics, aimed at reducing inflammation in the bowel wall. However, each of these therapies is accompanied by a list of possible serious side effects. Because of this, there remains an urgent need to identify new pharmacologic options to reduce or prevent the pro-inflammatory events of IBD while minimizing adverse side effects, and to make available more cost-effective treatment modalities. We have previously identified several herbal extracts that demonstrate potent bio-inhibitory activity of the innate immune response. In particular, Laurus nobilis (LN), or more commonly called bay laurel, demonstrated significant anti-inflammatory function by inhibiting nuclear factor-κB activation. Based upon our original in vitro findings, we have now examined the effects of this herbal extract on a murine dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) model of IBD. Hematoxylin and eosin-stained paraffin sections prepared from DSS treated animals show clear epithelial damage, including ulcerations, extensive neutrophil infiltration into the mucosal layer, and granuloma formation. Tissue from DSS treated animals that also received LN extract showed improved tissue morphology more closely resembling that from control animals. In addition, DSS treated mice with co-administration of LN extract showed a significant reduction in CD4+ antibody staining within the mucosal layer in colonic sections indicating reduced lymphocyte infiltration. Based on these findings, we believe that administration of LN extracts may be effective in reducing the intestinal epithelial damage seen in human IBD and warrants further investigation through clinical trials. Lay Summary: Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), such as Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC), manifest as chronic inflammation and ulceration of tissues lining the digestive tract. CD involves inflammation of the deeper layers of the digestive tract, including both the small and large intestines, and less commonly, the upper digestive tract. UC involves inflammation along the lining of the colon and rectum. Steroid or biologic treatments for IBD are common, however, are limited due to significant side effects and/or prohibitive cost. In the present study, we provide evidence for use of the natural product, Laurus nobilis (bay leaf), as a safe and effective anti-inflammatory therapy for IBD.

Compound 511 ameliorates MRSA-induced lung injury by attenuating morphine-induced immunosuppression in mice via PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway

BACKGROUND

Opioids are widely used in clinical practice. However, their long-term administration causes respiratory depression, addiction, tolerance, and severe immunosuppression. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) can alleviate opioid-induced adverse effects. Compound 511 is particularly developed for treating opioid addiction, based on Jiumi Liangfang, an ancient Chinese drug treatment and rehabilitation monograph completed in 1833 A.D. It is an herbal formula containing eight plants, each of them contributing to the overall pharmacological effect of the product: Panax ginseng C. A. Meyer (8.8%), Astragalus membranaceus (Fisch.) (18.2%), Datura metel Linn. (10.95%), Corydalis yanhusuo W. T. Wang (14.6%), Acanthopanar gracilistμlus W. W. Smith (10.95%), Ophiopogon japonicus (Linn. f.) Ker-Gawl. (10.95%), Gynostemma pentaphyllum (Thunb.) Makino (10.95%), Polygala arvensis Willd. (14.6%). This formula effectively ameliorates opioid-induced immunosuppression. However, the underlying mechanism remains unclear.

PURPOSE

To reveal the effects of Compound 511 on the immune response of morphine-induced immunosuppressive mice and their potential underlying molecular mechanism. This study provides information for a better clinical approach and scientific use of opioids.

METHODS

Immunosuppression was induced in mice by repeated morphine administration. Th1/Th2/Th17/Treg cell levels were measured using flow cytometry. Splenic transcription factors of Th1/Th2/Th17/Treg and outputs of the regulatory PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway were determined. Subsequently, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) was administered intranasally to morphine-induced immunosuppressive mice pretreated with Compound 511. Their lung inflammatory status was assessed using micro-computer tomography (CT), hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

RESULTS

Compared to morphine, Compound 511 significantly decreased the immune organ indexes of mice, corrected the Th1/Th2 and Treg/Th17 imbalance in the immune organs and peripheral blood, reduced the mRNA levels of FOXP3 and GATA3, and increased those of STAT3 and T-bet in the spleen. It improved immune function and reduced MRSA-induced lung inflammation.

CONCLUSION

Compound 511 ameliorates opioid-induced immunosuppression by regulating the balance of Th1/Th2 and Th17/Treg via PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway. Thus, it effectively reduces susceptibility of morphine-induced immunosuppressive mice to MRSA infection.

Effect of Ginger Powder on Production Performance, Antioxidant Status, Hematological Parameters, Digestibility, and Plasma Cholesterol Content in Broiler Chickens

The effect of dietary ginger powder on the production performance, digestibility, hematological parameters, antioxidant status, dietary oxidation stability, and plasma cholesterol content of broiler chickens was investigated. Ginger powder was included in the diet at 0, 5, 10, or 15 g/kg. Total antioxidant capacity and malondialdehyde in sera samples, superoxide dismutase activity, glutathione peroxidase, catalase, and malondialdehyde in liver samples, and the peroxide value and acid value of the stored diets were evaluated. The results showed that ginger inclusion significantly improved antioxidation indices in broiler sera and liver. Total body weight gain in ginger-supplemented birds was higher than that of control birds (p < 0.048). Supplementing the broiler chickens with ginger powder reduced total feed consumption (p < 0.031). White blood cell counts and the percentage of heterophils in the blood were increased in birds that received ginger supplementation (p < 0.001). The inclusion of ginger in the diet improved dry matter digestibility, crude protein utilization, crude fiber utilization, and ether extract utilization. In addition, blood cholesterol, triglyceride, and very low-density lipoprotein levels were decreased (p < 0.001), and high-density lipoprotein and levels were increased, following the inclusion of ginger in the diet (p < 0.001).

Urtica dioica-Derived Phytochemicals for Pharmacological and Therapeutic Applications

Urtica dioica belongs to the Urticaceae family and is found in many countries around the world. This plant contains a broad range of phytochemicals, such as phenolic compounds, sterols, fatty acids, alkaloids, terpenoids, flavonoids, and lignans, that have been widely reported for their excellent pharmacological activities, including antiviral, antimicrobial, antihelmintic, anticancer, nephroprotective, hepatoprotective, cardioprotective, antiarthritis, antidiabetic, antiendometriosis, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiaging effects. In this regard, this review highlights fresh insight into the medicinal use, chemical composition, pharmacological properties, and safety profile of U. dioica to guide future works to thoroughly estimate their clinical value.

Ginseng® as a reproductive enhancer agent for African catfish, Clarias gariepinus (Burchell, 1822)

Ginseng (Ge) is one of the most famous and precious consumed herbal medicines around the world. Ge plant roots have many advantages regarded as important in increasing fish production. Thus, the present study was conducted to investigate the possibility of using different levels (0.0, 100, and 200 mg/kg diet) of Ge as a reproductive enhancer agent for African catfish, Clarias gariepinus males. Results revealed that fish fed 200 mg Ge/kg diet significantly (P ˂ 0.05) increased growth performance, feed efficiency, gonado-somatic index, hematological parameters, serum follicle-stimulating hormone, total antioxidant capacity, sperm quality parameters, and ultrastructure of spermatozoa, as well as led to positively improved of the histological structure of the testes tissue compared to other treatments. Based on the obtained findings, it could be concluded that the effective use of dietary Ge at a level of 200 mg/kg as a promising reproductive agent for adult African catfish males consequently led to the sustainability of aquaculture for African catfish.

Immunomodulatory functional foods and their molecular mechanisms

The immune system comprises a complex group of processes that provide defense against diverse pathogens. These defenses can be divided into innate and adaptive immunity, in which specific immune components converge to limit infections. In addition to genetic factors, aging, lifestyle, and environmental factors can influence immune function, potentially affecting the susceptibility of the host to disease-causing agents. Chemical compounds in certain foods have been shown to regulate signal transduction and cell phenotypes, ultimately impacting pathophysiology. Research has shown that the consumption of specific functional foods can stimulate the activity of immune cells, providing protection against cancer, viruses, and bacteria. Here, we review a number of functional foods reported to strengthen immunity, including ginseng, mushrooms, chlorella, and probiotics (Lactobacillus plantarum). We also discuss the molecular mechanisms involved in regulating the activity of various types of immune cells. Identifying immune-enhancing functional foods and understanding their mechanisms of action will support new approaches to maintain proper health and combat immunological diseases.

Evidence is building to support the idea that specific ‘functional foods’ can stimulate the activity of cells and signaling systems of the immune system to provide protection against cancer, viruses and bacteria. Sanguine Byun and colleagues at Yonsei University in Seoul, South Korea, review research into a range of functional foods, foods thought to have health benefits beyond their nutritional value. These include ginseng, mushrooms, the green algae called Chlorella and the probiotic bacteria Lactobacillus plantarum. They also consider individual components of foods such as poly-gamma-glutamate, a natural polymer made by bacteria. A wide body of research is revealing diverse molecular mechanisms through which biochemicals in functional foods can modulate different aspects of the immune system. These include effects on both non-specific innate immunity and adaptive immunity, which targets specific invading pathogens and diseased cells.

Alternatives to antibiotics for organic poultry production: types, modes of action and impacts on bird's health and production

The poultry industry contributes significantly to bridging the nutritional gap in many countries because of its meat and eggs products rich in protein and valuable nutrients at a cost less than other animal meat sources. The natural antibiotics alternatives including probiotics, prebiotics, symbiotics, organic acids, essential oils, enzymes, immunostimulants, and phytogenic (phytobiotic) including herbs, botanicals, essential oils, and oleoresins are the most common feed additives that acquire popularity in poultry industry following the ban of antibiotic growth promoters (AGPs). They are commonly used worldwide because of their unique properties and positive impact on poultry production. They can be easily mixed with other feed ingredients, have no tissue residues, improve feed intake, feed gain, feed conversion rate, improve bird immunity, improve digestion, increase nutrients availability as well as absorbability, have antimicrobial effects, do not affect carcass characters, decrease the usage of antibiotics, acts as antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, compete for stress factors and provide healthy organic products for human consumption. Therefore, the current review focuses on a comprehensive description of different natural antibiotic growth promoters’ alternatives, the mode of their action, and their impacts on poultry production.

Phytocompound Mediated Blockage of Quorum Sensing Cascade in ESKAPE Pathogens

Increased resistance of Enterococcus faecium, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Enterobacter sp. (ESKAPE) pathogens against various drugs has enhanced the urge for the development of alternate therapeutics. Quorum sensing (QS) is a density dependent cell-to-cell communication mechanism responsible for controlling pathogenicity with the regulation of gene expression. Thus, QS is considered a potential target for the development of newer anti-biofilm agents that do not depend on the utilization of antibiotics. Compounds with anti-QS effects are known as QS inhibitors (QSIs), and they can inhibit the QS mechanism that forms the major form in the development of bacterial pathogenesis. A diverse array of natural compounds provides a plethora of anti-QS effects. Over recent years, these natural compounds have gained importance as new strategies for combating the ESKAPE pathogens and inhibiting the genes involved in QS. Different pharmacognostical and pharmacological studies have been carried out so far for identification of novel drugs or for the discovery of their unique structures that may help in developing more effective anti-biofilm therapies. The main objective of this review is to discuss the various natural compounds, so far identified and their employed mechanisms in hindering the genes responsible for QS leading to bacterial pathogenesis.

Novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19): Emergence, early infection rate, and deployment strategies for preventive solutions

Novel coronavirus commonly known as coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) has rapidly spread worldwide and triggered the current global health crisis. It mostly affects humans through the zoonotic transmission of coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). This chapter focuses on the various epidemics and pandemics (plague, cholera, Spanish flu, etc.) in the history of human civilization, principal component analysis (PCA) for the interpretation of COVID-19 spreading kinetics during the first wave (in the year 2020), the potential use of herbal medicines, dietary remedies, and allopathic therapy to fight COVID-19, and various preventive measures undertaken to combat the pandemic during the first wave. The numbers of confirmed, recovered, active, and deceased cases is considered for the mapping of PCA within different countries. This study can be used as an informative approach for anticipating and strategy-making against COVID-19 or some other pandemics in the ensuing times.

Masks for COVID-19

Sustainable solutions on fabricating and using a face mask to block the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) spread during this coronavirus pandemic of 2019 (COVID-19) are required as society is directed by the World Health Organization (WHO) toward wearing it, resulting in an increasingly huge demand with over 4 000 000 000 masks used per day globally. Herein, various new mask technologies and advanced materials are reviewed to deal with critical shortages, cross-infection, and secondary transmission risk of masks. A number of countries have used cloth masks and 3D-printed masks as substitutes, whose filtration efficiencies can be improved by using nanofibers or mixing other polymers into them. Since 2020, researchers continue to improve the performance of masks by adding various functionalities, for example using metal nanoparticles and herbal extracts to inactivate pathogens, using graphene to make masks photothermal and superhydrophobic, and using triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) to prolong mask lifetime. The recent advances in material technology have led to the development of antimicrobial coatings, which are introduced in this review. When incorporated into masks, these advanced materials and technologies can aid in the prevention of secondary transmission of the virus.

Review of herbal medicine works in the avian species

Poultry meat consumption is increasing worldwide but the overuse of antimicrobials for prevention and treatment of diseases has increased antimicrobial resistance (AMR), triggering a major public health issue. To restrict AMR emergence, the government supports the optimization of natural products that are safe and easy to obtain with minimal side effects on poultry, humans, and the environment. Various studies have explored the potential of herbs in animal health for their antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal, antiparasitic, immunomodulatory, antioxidant, and body weight gain properties. Therefore, this study reviewed plants with potential application in avian species by summarizing and discussing the mechanisms and prophylactic/therapeutic potential of these compounds and their plant origin extracts.

Biomedical Applications of Chinese Herb-Synthesized Silver Nanoparticles by Phytonanotechnology

Recent advances in nanotechnology have opened up new avenues for the controlled synthesis of nanoparticles for biomedical and pharmaceutical applications. Chinese herbal medicine is a natural gift to humanity, and it has long been used as an antibacterial and anticancer agent. This study will highlight recent developments in the phytonanotechnological synthesis of Chinese herbal medicines to utilize their bioactive components in biomedical and therapeutic applications. Biologically synthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have emerged as a promising alternative to chemical and physical approaches for various biomedical applications. The comprehensive rationale of combinational or synergistic effects of Chinese herb-based AgNPs synthesis was investigated with superior physicochemical and biological properties, and their biomedical applications, including antimicrobial and anticancer activity and wound healing properties. AgNPs can damage the cell ultrastructure by triggering apoptosis, which includes the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), DNA disintegration, protein inactivation, and the regulation of various signaling pathways. However, the anticancer mechanism of Chinese herbal medicine-based AgNPs is more complicated due to the potential toxicity of AgNPs. Further in-depth studies are required to address Chinese herbs' various bioactive components and AgNPs as a synergistic approach to combat antimicrobial resistance, therapeutic efficiency of drug delivery, and control and prevention of newly emerged diseases.

Improvement of Fatigue Symptoms and Endurance Capacity by the Combined Administration of Cervus elaphus L., Angelica gigas Nakai, and Astragalus membranaceus Bunge

Fatigue is a common phenomenon usually observed in healthy, as well as in nonhealthy, individuals that affects their performance and quality of life. Efficient supplementation to relieve fatigue is of significant importance. This study was designed to investigate the efficacy of three prescreened natural resources (Cervus elaphus L. [CEL], Angelica gigas Nakai [AGN], and Astragalus membranaceus Bunge [AMB]) against fatigue symptoms induced by heavy exercise. Effects on muscle fatigue and endurance capacity during exercise were investigated in C2C12 myoblasts and exercised mice. A combination of CEL, AGN, and AMB (CEL:AGN:AMB, 1:2:1) treatment in myoblasts reduced intracellular reactive oxygen species levels induced by hydrogen peroxide by ∼20 times (P < .001). The optimal mixture extract combination was determined as CEL:AGN:AMB, 1:2:1 (CAA), which was recombined by applying the extraction yield of individual substance for in vivo study. Compared to the exercise control (EC) group, the serum lactate dehydrogenase level decreased by ∼40% due to CAA administration. The proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator 1-alpha protein expression increased significantly (P < .05) after CAA administration compared to that observed in the normal control group. In parallel, CAA treatment significantly (P < .05) enhanced the maximum running time compared to the EC group. Overall, combinatorial administration exhibited greater efficacy compared to each individual treatment, indicating that CAA could be used as an efficient ergogenic and antifatigue supplement.

Natural Formulations: Novel Viewpoint for Scleroderma Adjunct Treatment

BACKGROUND

Scleroderma is a complex disease involving autoimmune, vascular, and connective tissues, with unknown etiology that can progress through any organ systems.

OBJECTIVE

Yet, no cure is available; the thorough treatment of scleroderma and current treatments are based on controlling inflammation. Nowadays, medicinal plants/natural-based formulations are emerging as important regulators of many diseases, including autoimmune diseases. Here, we provided an overview of scleroderma, also focused on recent studies on medicinal plants/natural-based formulations that are beneficial in scleroderma treatment/prevention.

METHODS

This study is the result of a search in PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane Library with "scleroderma", "systemic sclerosis", "plant", "herb", and "phytochemical" keywords. Finally, 22 articles were selected from a total of 1513 results entered in this study.

RESULTS

Natural products can modulate the inflammatory and/or oxidative mediators, regulate the production or function of the immune cells, and control the collagen synthesis, thereby attenuating the experimental and clinical manifestation of the disease.

CONCLUSION

Natural compounds can be considered an adjunct treatment for scleroderma to improve the quality of life of patients suffering from this disease.

Immunomodulatory Effects and Mechanisms of Curcuma Species and Their Bioactive Compounds: A Review

Curcuma species (family: Zingiberaceae) are widely utilized in traditional medicine to treat diverse immune-related disorders. There have been many scientific studies on their immunomodulating effects to support their ethnopharmacological uses. In this review, the efficacy of six Curcuma species, namely, C. longa L., C. zanthorrhiza Roxb., C. mangga Valeton & Zijp, C. aeruginosa Roxb. C. zedoaria (Christm.) Roscoe, and C. amada Roxb., and their bioactive metabolites to modulate the immune system, their mechanistic effects, and their potential to be developed into effective and safe immunomodulatory agents are highlighted. Literature search has been carried out extensively to gather significant findings on immunomodulating activities of these plants. The immunomodulatory effects of Curcuma species were critically analyzed, and future research strategies and appropriate perspectives on the plants as source of new immunomodulators were discussed. Most of the pharmacological investigations to evaluate their immunomodulatory effects were in vivo and in vitro experiments on the crude extracts of the plants. The extracts were not chemically characterized or standardized. Of all the Curcuma species investigated, the immunomodulatory effects of C. longa were the most studied. Most of the bioactive metabolites responsible for the immunomodulating activities were not determined, and mechanistic studies to understand the underlying mechanisms were scanty. There are limited clinical studies to confirm their efficacy in human. Of all the bioactive metabolites, only curcumin is undergoing extensive clinical trials based on its anti-inflammatory properties and main use as an adjuvant for the treatment of cancer. More in-depth studies to understand the underlying mechanisms using experimental in vivo animal models of immune-related disorders and elaborate bioavailability, preclinical pharmacokinetics, and toxicity studies are required before clinical trials can be pursued for development into immunomodulatory agents.

Simple and robust differentiation of Ganoderma species by high performance thin-layer chromatography coupled with single quadrupole mass spectrometry QDa

In this study, a high performance thin-layer chromatography/single quadrupole mass spectrometry QDa (HPTLC-QDa) method for robust authentication of Ganoderma lucidum, a popular and valuable herbal medicine, has been developed. This method is simple and practical, which allows direct generation of characteristic mass spectra from the HPTLC plates automatically with the application of in situ solvent desorption interface. The HPTLC silica gel plates were developed with toluene-ethyl formate-formic acid (5 : 5 : 0.2, V/V) and all bands were transferred to QDa system directly in situ using 80% methanol with 0.1% formic acid as desorption solvent. The acquired HPTLC-QDa spectra showed that luminous yellow band b3, containing ganoderic acid B/G/H and ganodeneric acid B, the major active components of Ganoderma, could be found only in G. lucidum and G. lucidum (Antler-shaped), but not in G. sinense and G. applanatum. Moreover, bands b13 and b14 with m/z 475/477 and m/z 475/491/495, respectively, could be detected in G. lucidum (Antler-shaped), but not in G. lucidum, thus allowing simple and robust authentication of G. lucidum with confused species. This method is proved to be simple, practical and reproducible, which can be extended to analyze other herbal medicines.

Egg Quality Parameters, Production Performance and Immunity of Laying Hens Supplemented with Plant Extracts

This study examined the effects of Mentha arvensis (MA) and Geranium thunbergii (GT) extracts in drinking water on the production performance, egg quality, cholesterol content of egg yolk, proximate composition, and sensory qualities of egg and immunity parameters in laying hens. Ninety-six 28-week-old Hy-Line Brown layers were randomly divided into four dietary treatments for 16 weeks. The dietary treatments were (1) control, (2) T1 (0.01% 1 MA:1 GT), (3) T2 (0.05% 1 MA:1 GT), and (4) T3 (0.1% 1 MA:1 GT). Egg production increased significantly with increasing levels of MA and GT. The egg weight was increased in T2, and the feed intake was highest in T2 and T3 (p < 0.05). The Haugh unit and egg shape index were significantly better in T3 and the control than with other treatments (p < 0.05). The content of yolk cholesterol was significantly lower (p < 0.05) in T2 and T3. On the other hand, there were no significant differences in the egg proximate composition. A significant increase in the serum interleukin 6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor (TNFα) and immunoglobulins (IgG and IgA) concentration was observed in the birds fed plant extracts when compared to the control. On average, T2 and T3 showed significantly lower (p < 0.05) concentrations of NH3 gas from the feces as compared to the control. This study suggests that MA and GT supplementation could improve the laying performance, egg quality, and immunity, and decrease the egg yolk cholesterol content in a dose-dependent manner.

Extract of Aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis Miller) Enhances the Growth, Protein Contents, and Gastrosomatic Index (GaSI) of Common Carp Cyprinus carpio

Aquaculture is a growing agribusiness, and large-scale microbial infection frequently leads to considerable economic losses, as there are very few approved drugs available to counteract such a problem. Aloe vera is a natural therapeutic plant with biological activities, for example, antimicrobial, anticancer, mitigating, and immunomodulatory properties. Thus, an experiment was conducted to understand the effects of dietary Aloe vera on survival, growth performance, protein utilization, gastrosomatic index, and gut histomorphological studies in common carp in laboratory conditions. Aloe vera leaves were collected, washed, shade-dried, and homogenized to get a filtrate, which was extracted in ethanol (70%) using the Soxhlet apparatus. The carp with an average weight of 1.73 ± 0.14 g was divided randomly into 5 treatments (control and other 4 treated groups) with the extract of 0.0%, 0.2%, 0.4%, 0.8%, and 1.6% in the diet with 3 replicates and the stocking density was 25 fish per each replicate. Sampling was done on the 30th, 60th, and 90th days, and the results show that percent weight gain, specific growth rate, protein efficiency ratio, and feed conversion efficiency were significantly high in the treated diet compared to the control (0.0%). Gastrosomatic index, condition factors, and gut histology found better performance in common carp group fed 0.4% and 0.8% of Aloe vera after 90 days. In conclusion, it was found that Aloe vera extract between the amount of 0.4% and 0.8% is better for fish growth for common carp.

Research Note: Anti-inflammatory effects and antiviral activities of baicalein and chlorogenic acid against infectious bursal disease virus in embryonic eggs

The purpose of this study was to investigate if baicalein and chlorogenic acid could inhibit the inflammatory responses induced by and protect against infectious bursal disease virus (IBDV) in chicken embryonic eggs. Nine-day-old embryonated chicken eggs were randomly divided into 3 groups of 50 eggs per group: 1) treatment with varying concentrations of baicalein, 2) treatment with varying concentrations of chlorogenic acid, or 3) left untreated as a control. Forty-eight hours after hatching, each group was inoculated with a very virulent IBDV isolate, and the survival of the embryo was monitored daily until the embryonic livers were collected 72 h after inoculation. After IBDV infection, the viral loads in the embryonic livers were evaluated using qRT-PCR, and the hepatic content of inflammatory mediators, such as histamine, interleukin 1β (IL-1β), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), and nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB), were examined. Significant antiviral potential was demonstrated at concentrations of 108 and 215 μg/egg of baicalein and chlorogenic acid, respectively. We observed a concentration-dependent response in the antiviral properties of these chemicals. Treating the embryos with baicalein and chlorogenic acid significantly reduced histamine production. Moreover, pretreatment with baicalein and chlorogenic acid significantly inhibited NF-κB activation, and this inhibited the subsequent production of the proinflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IL-1β in the context of IBDV infection. These findings suggest that baicalein and chlorogenic acid have anti-IBDV properties, and they may be useful in the prevention of inflammation-related diseases.

Status of Novel Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) and Animal Production

In December 2019, a severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) that caused severe disease clusters was first reported in Wuhan, the capital of China's Hubei province. This viral disease, which is reported to originate from a seafood market where wild animals are illegally sold, has been transmitted among humans worldwide through close contact. Given the growing number of infected people worldwide and the disastrous consequences in all aspects of life, COVID-19 is a serious public health issue that requires special attention. In some countries, the epidemic curve of infection which was in the plateau phase or decreasing phase during the lockdown period increases day by day since the reopening, indicating the second phase of contamination. Therefore, the preventive measures recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) must be respected to stop the spread of the disease. The international crisis due to the COVID-19 pandemic negatively affects many sectors, including animal production and its related industries. Indeed, with the cessation of imports and exports between countries, it is not possible to provide feeds that are considered as basic raw materials in livestock raising. This situation impairs animal movements, decreases production inputs availability, and negatively affects the economy. The sustainability of animal production is also affected by a shortage of workers due to the lockdown/curfew, the strong decrease in the purchasing power of the consumer, and the intensification of health care tasks. To prevent contamination of animal products and the spread of the disease with food, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends frequent disinfection of food and human contact surfaces at production sites using an appropriate antiseptic. The purpose of this review article is to describe the current status of COVID-19 and investigate its effects on animal production. We propose potential approaches to keep animal products processing units and staff safe from SARS-CoV-2 infection and some strategies to improve animal production quantity and economy.

Plant-Derived Natural Compounds in Genetic Vaccination and Therapy for HPV-Associated Cancers

Simple Summary

DNA vaccination represents a useful approach for human papillomavirus (HPV) cancer therapy. The therapeutic potential of plant-based natural compounds for control of HPV- associated cancers has been also widely explored. Genetic vaccines for HPV-associated tumors that include plant protein-encoding gene sequences, used alone or in combinations with plant metabolites, are being investigated but are still in their infancy. Main focus of this paper is to provide an overview of the current state of novel therapeutic strategies employing genetic vaccines along with plant-derived compounds and genes. We highlight the importance of multimodality treatment regimen such as combining immunotherapy with plant-derived agents.

Abstract

Antigen-specific immunotherapy and, in particular, DNA vaccination provides an established approach for tackling human papillomavirus (HPV) cancers at different stages. DNA vaccines are stable and have a cost-effective production. Their intrinsic low immunogenicity has been improved by several strategies with some success, including fusion of HPV antigens with plant gene sequences. Another approach for the control of HPV cancers is the use of natural immunomodulatory agents like those derived from plants, that are able to interfere in carcinogenesis by modulating many different cellular pathways and, in some instances, to reduce chemo- and radiotherapy resistance of tumors. Indeed, plant-derived compounds represent, in many cases, an abundantly available, cost-effective source of molecules that can be either harvested directly in nature or obtained from plant cell cultures. In this review, an overview of the most relevant data reported in literature on the use of plant natural compounds and genetic vaccines that include plant-derived sequences against HPV tumors is provided. The purpose is also to highlight the still under-explored potential of multimodal treatments implying DNA vaccination along with plant-derived agents.

Characterization of the cold and hot natures of raw and processed Rehmanniae Radix by integrated metabolomics and network pharmacology

BACKGROUND

The processing of Chinese materia medica (CMM) is one of the characteristics and advantages of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). Occasionally, the processing of CMM might reverse the cold/hot nature of CMM. For example, the nature of raw Rehmanniae Radix (RR) is cool, while the processed Rehmanniae Radix (PR) by steaming is hot. Because the cold/hot nature of CMM is defined by the body's response to CMMs, a metabolomics approach, allowing the monitoring of the fluctuation of endogenous metabolites related to an exogenous stimulus, might be an ideal tool to uncover the cold/hot nature of different forms of Rehmanniae Radix.

PURPOSE

An integrated strategy combining metabolomics and network pharmacology was applied to illuminate the different natures of raw and processed Rehmanniae Radix.

STUDY DESIGN

Mice were orally administered RR and PR once daily for ten days. The entire metabolic changes in the plasma of mice were profiled by ultra-high performance liquid chromatography/quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UHPLC/Q-TOF MS). Furthermore, network pharmacology analysis was performed to identify the underlying targets related to iridoids that significantly changed during the processing.

RESULTS

The metabolomics analysis results demonstrated a clear separation of the metabolic phenotypes among the control, RR and two PR groups in both the positive and negative modes. Nine lysophosphatidylcholines (LysoPCs), LysoPC (16:0), LysoPC (18:2), LysoPC (18:1), LysoPC (22:6), LysoPC (20:2), LysoPC (18:0), LysoPC (16:1), LysoPC (20:4) and LysoPC (20:5), that decreased in the RR-treated group, but increased in the PR-treated group, were identified to be potential biomarkers related to the natures of RR and PR. The network pharmacology results indicated that four iridoids in Rehmanniae Radix, 8-epiloganic acid, 6-O-p-coumaroyl ajugol, 6-O-p-hydroxybenzoyl ajugol and ajugol, might play important roles in the different natures of raw and processed Rehmanniae Radix.

CONCLUSIONS

There might be a strong connection between the cold/hot nature of different forms of Rehmanniae Radix and LysoPC metabolism. This study offers new insight into the cold/hot nature of Rehmanniae Radix.

Dietary therapy and herbal medicine for COVID-19 prevention: A review and perspective

A novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19), transmitted from humans to humans, has rapidly become the pandemic responsible for the current global health crisis. COVID-19 is caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), which is said to be of zoonotic origin. This review describes the etiology and signs and symptoms as well as the current allopathic therapy for COVID-19. Additionally, findings of previous studies on the immunomodulatory effects and antiviral activities of particular foods and herbs on influenza virus and coronaviruses have been collated, with the aim of promoting the use of dietary therapy and herbal medicine as COVID-19 preventive therapies, while specific drugs and vaccines are yet to be discovered or are still under development. The volume of existing reports is irrefutable evidence that foods and herbs possess a potential antiviral ability against SARS-CoV-2 and can prevent COVID-19. Foods and herbs could be used as dietary or complementary therapy to prevent infection and strengthen immunity, as antiviral agents for masks, as disinfectants to curb aerosol transmission, or as sanitizing agents to disinfect surfaces. However, these hypotheses need to be experimentally verified for SARS-CoV-2 and COVID-19 patients.

Kaempferol and Its Glycoside, Kaempferol 7-O-Rhamnoside, Inhibit PD-1/PD-L1 Interaction In Vitro

Kaempferol (KO) and kaempferol 7-O-rhamnoside (KR) are natural products from various oriental herbs such as Geranii Herba. Previous studies have reported some biological activities of KO and KR; however, their effects on PD-1/PD-L1 interaction have not been reported yet. To elucidate their inhibitory activities on PD-1/PD-L1 protein–protein interaction (PPI), biochemical assays including competitive ELISA and biolayer interferometry (BLI) systems were performed. Cellular PD-1/PD-L1 blocking activity was measured in a co-culture system with PD-1 Jurkat and PD-L1/aAPC CHO-K1 cells by T-cell receptor (TCR) activation-induced nuclear factor of activated T cells (NFAT)-luciferase reporter assay. The detailed binding mode of action was simulated by an in silico docking study and pharmacophore analysis. Competitive ELISA revealed that KO and its glycoside KR significantly inhibited PD-1/PD-L1 interaction. Cellular PD-1/PD-L1 blocking activity was monitored by KO and KR at non-cytotoxic concentration. Surface plasmon resonance (SPR) and biolayer interferometry (BLI) analysis suggested the binding affinity and direct inhibition of KR against PD-1/PD-L1. An in silico docking simulation determined the detailed mode of binding of KR to PD-1/PD-L1. Collectively, these results suggest that KR could be developed as a potent small molecule inhibitor for PD-1/PD-L1 blockade.

Biocatalytic Synthesis of a Novel Bioactive Ginsenoside Using UDP-Glycosyltransferase from Bacillus subtilis 168

Ginsenoside Rg3 is a bioactive compound from Panax ginseng and exhibits diverse notable biological properties. Glycosylation catalyzed by uridine diphosphate-dependent glycosyltransferase (UGT) is the final biosynthetic step of ginsenoside Rg3 and determines its diverse pharmacological activities. In the present study, promiscuous UGT Bs-YjiC from Bacillus subtilis 168 was expressed in Escherichia coli and purified via one-step nickel chelate affinity chromatography. The in vitro glycosylation reaction demonstrated Bs-Yjic could selectively glycosylate the C12 hydroxyl group of ginsenoside Rg3 to synthesize an unnatural ginsenoside Rd12. Ginsenoside Rd12 was about 40-fold more water-soluble than that of ginsenoside Rg3 (90 μM). Furthermore, in vitro cytotoxicity of ginsenoside Rd12 against diverse cancer cells was much stronger than that of ginsenoside Rg3. Our studies report the UGT-catalyzed synthesis of unnatural ginsenoside Rd12 for the first time. Ginsenoside Rd12 with antiproliferative activity might be further exploited as a potential anticancer drug.

Effects of Lycium barbarum polysaccharides on immunological parameters, apoptosis, and growth performance of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus)

In this study, the effect of Lycium barbarum polysaccharides (LBP) on immunological parameters, apoptosis, and growth performance of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) was investigated. Dietary supplementation with LBP significantly increased complement 3 (C3) activity and promoted interleukin IL-1β gene expression in spleen tissue, significantly reduced apoptosis in spleen tissue, increased the specific growth rate (SGR), relative length gain (LG), and relative weight gain (WG) of Nile tilapia. However, dietary supplementation with LBP did not have a significant effect on serum alkaline phosphatase (AKP), malondialdehyde (MDA), and superoxide dismutase (SOD), blood constituents, apoptosis, or gene expression of IL-1β in liver tissue. Overall, the results showed that dietary supplementation with LBP increased the nonspecific immunity of Nile tilapia and reduced the apoptosis rate to promote growth and development. Thus, LBP has potential for use as a new immunostimulant in aquaculture.

Therapeutic potential of natural compounds from Chinese medicine in acute and subacute phases of ischemic stroke

Stroke is one of the leading causes of death and disability in adults worldwide, resulting in huge social and financial burdens. Extracts from herbs, especially those used in Chinese medicine, have emerged as new pharmaceuticals for stroke treatment. Here we review the evidence from preclinical studies investigating neuroprotective properties of Chinese medicinal compounds through their application in acute and subacute phases of ischemic stroke, and highlight potential mechanisms underlying their therapeutic effects. It is noteworthy that many herbal compounds have been shown to target multiple mechanisms and in combinations may exert synergistic effects on signaling pathways, thereby attenuating multiple aspects of ischemic pathology. We conclude the paper with a general discussion of the prospects for novel natural compound-based regimens against stroke.

Regulation of dietary astragalus polysaccharide (APS) supplementation on the non-specific immune response and intestinal microbiota of sea cucumber Apostichopus japonicus

Astragalus polysaccharide (APS) plays important roles in antibacterial, antiviral and antiparasitic activities in mammals, birds and aquatic animals. However, the relationship between non-specific immune responses and intestinal microbiota in sea cucumber (Apostichopus japonicus) after dietary APS supplementation has not been reported to date. Here, the effect of dietary APS supplementation on the non-specific immune response and intestinal microbial composition and species distribution of sea cucumber was explored. We found that although there was no significant effect on sea cucumber growth, the enzymatic activity and expression level of immune- and antioxidant-related genes changed after dietary APS supplementation. Furthermore, the intestinal microbial composition and species distribution of sea cucumber were different at the phylum and genus levels after dietary APS supplementation. The phyla Proteobacteria and Bacteroidetes were significantly different between the APS2 group and CK group. The results of PCA and PCoA analysis also showed that the APS2 group was significantly different compared to the other groups. Finally, analysis of the relationship between non-specific immune responses and the intestinal microbiota showed that the expression level of NF-κB was significantly correlated with intestinal microbiota at the genus level. This finding suggests that dietary APS supplementation might affect the non-specific immune response and intestinal microbiota of sea cucumber through the NF-κB signalling pathway; the appropriate added level was 800 mg/kg. Taken together, our results lay a foundation for further understanding the relationship between non-specific immune responses and intestinal microbial of sea cucumber.

The RUTI trial: A feasibility study exploring Chinese herbal medicine for the treatment of recurrent urinary tract infections

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) is a widely used traditional intervention that may have a role to play in addressing the global problem of antimicrobial resistance in conditions such as recurrent urinary tract infections (RUTIs).

AIM OF THE STUDY

To evaluate the feasibility of administering standardised and individualised formulations of CHM for RUTIs as a Clinical Trial of an Investigational Medicinal Product (CTIMP) within primary care of the UKs National Health Service (NHS).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Regulatory approval was applied for a placebo controlled, double blinded randomised controlled feasibility trial comparing a) standardised CHM vs placebo administered via General practitioners, and b) individualised CHM vs placebo administered by an experienced CHM practitioner. Primary feasibility outcomes included: gaining regulatory approval, recruitment, randomisation, retention, safety and the relevance of outcomes measures.

RESULTS

Regulatory approval for testing CHM as a CTIMP was successfully obtained. Recruitment to the trial was slow and non-NHS self help networks were required to find participants for the individualised arm (n = 31). Retention and data collection in the standardised arm (n-30) were problematic, but these were acceptable in the individualised arm. The use of a daily symptom diary was not a suitable outcome measure for women with continuous infection. Other measures showed promising preliminary data for the individualised arm on improvement in symptoms, and reduction in antibiotic use during and after the trial.

CONCLUSION

CHM can fulfil the demanding requirements of a CTIMP study but it may not be feasible at this point in time to recruit and treat via NHS primary care. However acceptable rates of recruitment and retention via self-help groups and promising preliminary results in the individualised arm suggest it would be worth testing this approach in a full trial.

Effects of Moringa oleifera leaf extract on growth performance, physiological and immune response, and related immune gene expression of Macrobrachium rosenbergii with Vibrio anguillarum and ammonia stress

In order to study the effects of Moringa oleifera leaf extract on Macrobrachium rosenbergii under high ammonia exposure, freshwater prawns were randomly divided into five groups: a control group was fed with basal diet, and four treatment groups fed with basal diet supplemented with 0.25%, 0.5% and 1.0% M. oleifera leaf extract and 0.025% Enrofloxacin for 60 days, respectively. Then, freshwater prawns were exposed to high ammonia stress for 72 h and Vibro anguillarum infection. The growth, antioxidant capabilities, related immune genes as well as resistance to infection by V. anguillarum were determined. The results showed that compared with the control group, the weight gain, specific growth rate and protein efficiency rate, haemolymph catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) increased while feed conversion ratio, haemolymph aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, nitrogen oxide (NO), hepatopancreas heat shock proteins (HSP70), immune deficiency (IMD) expression levels decreased in the group of 0.5% M. oleifera leaf extract before the stress. After ammonia stress, the group of 0.5% M. oleifera leaf extract also could improve the haemolymph SOD, glutathione peroxidase, NO, iNOS, hepatopancreas HSP70 expression levels and reduce haemolymph CAT, hepatopancreas peroxiredoxin 5 and NF kappa B inhibitor alpha expression level compared with the control group. The rate of mortality of the prawns challenged with V. anguillarum was lower in the supplemented groups in comparison with the control group with the lowest being in the group of 0.5% M. oleifera leaf extract. Antioxidant activities as well as biochemical parameters in the enrofloxacin group (0.025%E) were not significantly enhanced both pre and post challenge in comparison with the M. oleifera leaf extract groups, showing the superiority of the natural herb over the synthetic antibiotic. In summary, this study suggested that at an inclusion rate of 0.5%, M. oleifera leaf extract could increase the growth performance, even has positive effects on physiological and immune function and prevents high ammonia stress in the Freshwater prawn, M.rosenbergii.

Developing natural products as potential anti-biofilm agents

Biofilm is a natural form of bacterial growth ubiquitously in environmental niches. The biofilm formation results in increased resistance to negative environmental influences including resistance to antibiotics and antimicrobial agents. Quorum sensing (QS) is cell-to-cell communication mechanism, which plays an important role in biofilm development and balances the environment when the bacteria density becomes high. Due to the prominent points of biofilms implicated in infectious disease and the spread of multi-drug resistance, it is urgent to discover new antibacterial agents that can regulate biofilm formation and development. Accumulated evidences demonstrated that natural products from plants had antimicrobial and chemo-preventive properties in modulation of biofilm formation in the last two decades. This review will summarize recent studies on the discovery of natural anti-biofilm agents from plants with clear-cut mechanisms or identified molecular addresses, as well as some herbs with unknown mechanisms or unidentified bioactive ingredients. We also focus on the progression of techniques on the extraction and identification of natural anti-biofilm substances. Besides, anti-biofilm therapeutics undergoing clinical trials are discussed. These newly discovered natural anti-biofilm agents are promising candidates which could provide novel strategies for biofilm-associated infections.

Kampo Therapies and the Use of Herbal Medicines in the Dentistry in Japan

Dental caries and periodontal disease are two major diseases in the dentistry. As the society is aging, their pathological meaning has been changing. An increasing number of patients are displaying symptoms of systemic disease and so we need to pay more attention to immunologic aggression in our medical treatment. For this reason, we focused on natural products. Kampo consists of natural herbs-roots and barks-and has more than 3000 years of history. It was originated in China as traditional medicine and introduced to Japan. Over the years, Kampo medicine in Japan has been formulated in a way to suit Japan's natural features and ethnic characteristics. Based on this traditional Japanese Kampo medicine, we have manufactured a Kampo gargle and Mastic Gel dentifrice. In order to practically utilize the effectiveness of mastic, we have developed a dentifrice (product name: IMPLA CARE) and treated implant periodontitis and severe periodontitis.

An immune-stimulating proteoglycan from the medicinal mushroom Huaier up-regulates NF-κB and MAPK signaling via Toll-like receptor 4

Trametes robiniophila Murr. (Huaier) is a mushroom with a long history of use as a medicinal ingredient in China and exhibits good clinical efficacy in cancer management. However, the antitumor components of Huaier and the underlying molecular mechanisms remain poorly understood. Here, we isolated a proteoglycan with a molecular mass of ∼5.59 × 10⁴ Da from Huaier aqueous extract. We named this proteoglycan TPG-1, and using FTIR and additional biochemical analyses, we determined that its total carbohydrate and protein compositions are 43.9 and 41.2%, respectively. Using biochemical assays and immunoblotting, we found that exposing murine RAW264.7 macrophages to TPG-1 promotes the production of nitric oxide (NO), tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα), and interleukin-6 (IL-6) through Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4)-dependent activation of NF-κB and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling. Of note, the TPG-1 treatment significantly inhibited the tumorigenesis of human hepatoma HepG2 cells likely at least in part by increasing serum levels of TNFα and promoting leukocyte infiltration into tumors in nude mice. TPG-1 also exhibited good antitumor activity in hepatoma H22-bearing mice and had no obvious adverse effects in these mice. We conclude that TPG-1 exerts antitumor activity partially through an immune-potentiating effect due to activation of the TLR4-NF-κB/MAPK signaling cassette. Therefore, TPG-1 may be a promising candidate drug for cancer immunotherapy. This study has identified the TPG-1 proteoglycan as an antitumor agent and provided insights into TPG-1's molecular mechanism, suggesting a potential utility for applying this agent in cancer therapy.

The Falconoid Luteolin Mitigates the Myocardial Inflammatory Response Induced by High-Carbohydrate/High-Fat Diet in Wistar Rats

Luteolin is a major component of many medicinal plants and traditional medicines. The current study aims at testing its protective effect against high-carbohydrate/high-fat (HCHF) diet-induced cardiac dysfunction in rats. Male Wistar rats were divided into six groups as follows: control group that received standard rat chow, group received HCHF diet (~ 30% carbohydrate and 42% fat) daily for 16 weeks, and four groups received HCHF diet concurrently with luteolin (10, 25, 50 or 100 mg/kg; 10% w/v suspension in 0.9% NaCl) daily from the first week by oral gavage. Body weight was measured weekly. At the end of the study, histopathological examinations of stained heart sections were carried out. Lipid profile, oxidative stress, and cardiac function biomarkers were measured. Furthermore, neurohumoral mediators and inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-18) were assigned. Results showed a significant improvement in cardiac function, tissue integrity, and a decrease in the compensatory neurohumoral mediators by luteolin 50 and 100 mg/kg. In addition, a significant (P < 0.05) decrease in collagen deposition, fibrosis percentage, lipid peroxidation, and inflammatory cells (macrophages and lymphocytes) infiltration was observed. Tested doses of luteolin decreased lipid peroxidation and elevated the endogenous antioxidant biomarkers (reduced glutathione and superoxide dismutase) significantly (P < 0.05). Finally, luteolin decreased TNF-α and IL-18 (P < 0.001) in a dose-dependent manner. It can be concluded that luteolin has a cardioprotective effect against HCHF diet-induced myocardial inflammation through antioxidant anti-inflammatory mechanisms.

Echinacea plants as antioxidant and antibacterial agents: From traditional medicine to biotechnological applications

The genus Echinacea consists of 11 taxa of herbaceous and perennial flowering plants. In particular, Echinacea purpurea (L.) Moench is widely cultivated all over the United States, Canada, and in Europe, exclusively in Germany, for its beauty and reported medicinal properties. Echinacea extracts have been used traditionally as wound healing to improve the immune system and to treat respiratory symptoms caused by bacterial infections. Echinacea extracts have demonstrated antioxidant and antimicrobial activities, and to be safe. This survey aims at reviewing the medicinal properties of Echinacea species, their cultivation, chemical composition, and the potential uses of these plants as antioxidant and antibacterial agents in foods and in a clinical context. Moreover, the factors affecting the chemical composition of Echinacea spp. are also covered.