Chinese herbs as modulators of human mesangial cell proliferation: preliminary studies

A new cyclic peptide from Selaginella tamariscina

A new cyclic peptide selapeptin B (1), together with one known nor-lignan glycoside moellenoside C (2), was isolated from Selaginella tamariscina. The structures of 1 and 2 were elucidated on the basis of chemical and spectral analysis, including 1D, 2D NMR analyses and HRESIMS. Two compounds were evaluated for cytotoxic activities against B16F10, MDA-MB-231, and MDA-MB-468 cell lines by MTT assay. Compound 1 showed the potent activity against B16F10 melanoma cell lines.

Two new flavonol glycosides from Selaginella tamariscina

Two new flavonol glycosides 3,5,7-trimethoxyflavone-4'-O-[5'''-O-p-coumaroyl-β-D-apiofuranoyl-(1'''→2'')-β-D-glucopyranoside] (1) and 3,5,7-trimethoxyflavone -4'-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (2) were isolated from Selaginella tamariscina. The structures of 1 and 2 were elucidated on the basis of chemical and spectral analysis, including 1D, 2D NMR analyses and HRESIMS spectrometry. Two compounds were evaluated for cytotoxic activities against A-375, MCF-7, MDA-MB-231 and MDA-MB-468 cell lines by MTT assay. Unfortunately, two compounds displayed no cytotoxic activities.

The traditional and modern uses of Selaginella tamariscina (P.Beauv.) Spring, in medicine and cosmetic: Applications and bioactive ingredients

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Extracts of the plant Selaginella tamariscina (P.Beauv.) Spring (spike moss) are used for a long time in Asia, for the treatment of multiple diseases and conditions. Aqueous and alcoholic leave extracts are used by local communities. In China, the plant (Juan bai) is listed on the Pharmacopoeia. In South Korea, the use of this plant (Kwon Baek) is mentioned in the book Dongui-Bogam (Heo Jun 1613), at the origin of the Hyungsang medicine. S. tamariscina is traditionally used in Vietnam (mong lung rong), Thailand (dok hin), Philippines (pakong-tulog) and other Asian countries.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To provide an analysis of the multiple traditional and current uses of S. tamariscina extracts (STE) in the field of medicine and cosmetic. The review is also intended at identifying the main natural products at the origin of the many pharmacological properties reported with these extracts (anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antidiabetic, antibacterial, antiallergic, anticancer effects).

METHODS

Extensive database retrieval, such as SciFinder and PubMed, was performed by using keywords like " Selaginella tamariscina", "spike moss", "Selaginellaceae ". Relevant textbooks, patents, reviews, and digital documents were consulted to collate all available scientific literature and to provide a complete science-based survey of the topic.

RESULTS

Different solvents and methods are used to prepare STE. The process can largely modify the natural product content and properties of the extracts. STE display a range of pharmacological effects, useful to treat metabolic disorders, several inflammatory diseases and various cancers. A specific carbonized extract (S. tamariscina carbonisatus) has shown hemostatic effects, whereas standard STE can promote blood circulation. Many patented STE-containing cosmetic preparations are reviewed here. Several biflavonoids (chiefly amentoflavone) and phenolic compounds (selaginellin derivatives) are primarily responsible for the observed pharmacological properties. Potent inhibitors of protein tyrosine phosphatase 1 B (PTP1B), phosphodiesterase-4 (PDE4), and repressor of pro-inflammatory cytokines expression have been identified from STE.

CONCLUSION

The traditional use of STE supports the research performed with this plant. There are robust experimental data, based on in vitro and in vivo models, documenting the use of STE to treat type 2 diabetes, several inflammatory diseases, and some cancers (in combination with standard chemotherapy). Selaginella tamariscina (P.Beauv.) is a prime reservoir for amentoflavone, and many other bioactive natural products. The interest of the plant in medicine and cosmetic is amply justified.

Two new selariscinins from Selaginella tamariscina (Beauv.) Spring

Two new selariscinins named selariscinin F (1) and selariscinin G (2), along with one known selariscinin D (3) were isolated from Selaginella tamariscina. The structures of 1-3 were elucidated on the basis of chemical and spectral analysis, including 1D, 2D NMR analyses and HRESIMS.

N6-(2-hydroxyethyl)-Adenosine Induces Apoptosis via ER Stress and Autophagy of Gastric Carcinoma Cells In Vitro and In Vivo

Gastric cancer is the most common malignant tumor of the digestive tract and is great challenge in clinical treatment. N6-(2-Hydroxyethyl)-adenosine (HEA), widely present in various fungi, is a natural adenosine derivative with many biological and pharmacological activities. Here, we assessed the antineoplastic effect of HEA on gastric carcinoma. HEA exerted cytotoxic effects against gastric carcinoma cells (SGC-7901 and AGS) in a dose and time-dependent manner. Additionally, we found that HEA induced reactive oxygen species production and mitochondrial membrane potential depolarization. Moreover, it could trigger caspase-dependent apoptosis, promoting intracellular Ca²⁺-related endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and autophagy. On the other hand, HEA could significantly inhibit the growth of transplanted tumors in nude mice and induce apoptosis of tumor tissues cells in vivo. In conclusion, HEA induced apoptosis of gastric carcinoma cells in vitro and in vivo, demonstrating that HEA is a potential chemotherapeutic agent for gastric carcinoma.

Ethanolic extract of Cordyceps cicadae exerts antitumor effect on human gastric cancer SGC-7901 cells by inducing apoptosis, cell cycle arrest and endoplasmic reticulum stress

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Cordyceps cicadae (Miq.) Massee is a traditional Chinese medicine that has been used for approximately 1600 years in China. C. cicadae, a member of the Cordyceps genus, exerts a therapeutic effect on many diseases, such as cancer.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to evaluate the antineoplasmic activity of C. cicadae and to identify its molecular mechanism of cell death.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The toxicity of the ethanolic extract of C. cicadae (EEC) against different cancer cell lines was determined through MTT assay. Human gastric cancer SGC-7901 cells were treated with EEC for 48 h. Cell morphology was examined by using an Olympus phase-contrast microscope. The cell apoptosis was quantified through Annexin V-FITC/PI staining. Cells were stained with PI and then subjected to flow cytometry for the investigation of cell cycle status. Cells were subjected to mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) assay after incubation with JC-1 probes and to intracellular Ca²⁺ measurement through flow cytometry after incubation with Fluo-3 AM fluorescent probes. Western blot analysis was conducted to quantify the expression of proteins related to apoptosis, cell cycle and endoplasmic reticulum stress. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis was performed to analyse the biological activity components of EEC.

RESULTS

EEC suppressed the proliferation of SGC-7901 cells and induced the development of abnormal morphological features in a dose-dependent manner. Flow cytometry results indicated that EEC treatment caused cell apoptosis and arrested the cell cycle in the S phase. In addition, EEC treatment triggered MMP depolarization and Ca²⁺ overloading in the cytosol of SGC-7901 cells. Western blot analysis demonstrated that EEC increased Bax, AIF, caspase-8, caspase-6 and caspase-3 activities and decreased Bcl-2 activity. The release of cytochrome c from mitochondria was associated with mitochondrial dysfunction, which was caused by the activation of the cell surface receptor Fas and the cleavage of PARP. EEC-induced S phase arrest was associated with the up-regulation of E2F1, cyclin A2, cyclin E and p53 expression levels and the down-regulation of CDK2 expression. In addition, EEC increased the expression of endoplasmic reticulum stress-related proteins, such as calpain-1, caspase-12 and caspase-9. HPLC assay results suggested that EEC contained adenine, uridine, adenosine and N6-(2-Hydroxyethyl)-adenosine.

CONCLUSION

EEC inhibited the proliferation of SGC-7901 cells by inducing caspase-dependent apoptosis, arresting the cell cycle in the S phase and increasing endoplasmic reticulum stress. This study revealed that C. cicadae is a potential natural source of anticancer drugs.

HO-1 Induction by Selaginella tamariscina Extract Inhibits Inflammatory Response in Lipopolysaccharide-Stimulated RAW 264.7 Macrophages

Selaginella Herba is the dried, aerial part of Selaginella tamariscina (P.Beauv.) Spring and has been used to treat amenorrhea, abdominal pain, headaches, and hematuria in Korea. However, scientific evidence regarding the anti-inflammatory activity and action mechanism of Selaginella tamariscina is lacking. Thus, the present study was performed to investigate the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities of Selaginella tamariscina ethanol extract (STE) against lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammatory responses and identify the molecular mechanism responsible. STE was prepared by heating in 70% ethanol and its quality was confirmed by HPLC. STE dose-dependently inhibited the productions of inflammatory mediators (NO and PGE₂) and proinflammatory cytokines (IL-1β and IL-6) in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells. STE markedly suppressed the phosphorylations of MAPKs, IκB-α, and NF-κB and the nuclear translocation of NF-κB induced by LPS stimulation. In addition, STE exhibited good free radical scavenging activity and prevented ROS generation by LPS. STE also upregulated the expression of Nrf2 and HO-1 and promoted the nuclear translocation of Nrf2. Taken together, STE was found to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects on RAW 264.7 macrophages and the mechanism appeared to involve the MAPK, NF-κB, and Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathways. These results suggest that STE might be useful for preventing or treating inflammatory diseases and provide scientific evidence that supports the developments of herbal prescriptions or novel natural products.

Biflavonoids Isolated from Selaginella tamariscina and Their Anti-Inflammatory Activities via ERK 1/2 Signaling

Selaginella tamariscina (S. tamariscina) (Beauv.) Spring (Selaginellaceae) has been used in oriental medicine for the treatment of dysmenorrhea, chronic hepatitis, hyperglycemia, amenorrhea, hematuria, prolapse of the anus and metrorrhagia. In the present study, we isolated two strong anti-inflammatory compounds, the biflavonoids hinokiflavone (H) and 7′-O-methyl hinokiflavone (mH), from S. tamariscina and examined their anti-inflammatory activities in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-mediated murine macrophages (RAW 264.7) and colon epithelial cells (HT-29). H and mH suppressed the production of the inflammatory mediators nitric oxide (NO), interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8, and tumor-necrosis factor (TNF)-α, which are most highly activated in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). In addition, Western blot analysis revealed that H and mH suppressed the LPS-induced expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase (COX)-2, and the activation of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) and extracellular regulated kinases (ERK) 1/2. These results suggest that H and mH are compounds having potent anti-inflammatory effects that could be used to treat such diseases as IBD.

Lignan derivatives from Selaginella tamariscina and their nitric oxide inhibitory effects in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells

The chemical characterization of Selaginella tamariscina leaves resulted in the isolation of five lignanoside derivatives (1-4 and 6) and one neolignan (5). These compounds include three new lignanosides, tamariscinosides D-F (1-3), and one liriodendrin (4) that were isolated for the first time from this plant, together with two known compounds, (2R,3S)-dihydro-2-(3,5-dimethoxy-4-hydroxyphenyl)-7-methoxy-5-acetyl-benzofuran (5) and moellenoside B (6). The chemical structures of these isolated compounds were determined using 1D and 2D NMR, MS, and CD spectroscopic data, and the results were compared to data previously reported in the literatures. These compounds were also evaluated in terms of their inhibition of NO production in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated activity in the macrophage cell line RAW 264.7. Among them, compounds 1, 2, 5, and 6 exhibited a significant inhibition with IC₅₀ values ranging from 32.3 to 55.8μM.

Effects of Ixeris Chinensis (Thunb.) Nakai boiling water extract on hepatitis B viral activity and hepatocellular carcinoma

BACKGROUND

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection and hepatocellular carcinoma are major diseases that affect the Taiwanese population. Therefore, the development of an alternative herbal medicine that can effectively treat these diseases is a research target. In this study, we tested Ixeris Chinensis (Thunb.) Nakai boiling water extract (ICTN BWE) in vitro and analysed its effects on the HBV and liver cancer.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We used a human liver cancer cell line (Hep3B, a cell line that continuously secretes HBV particles into a medium) as an experimental model for the screening of various ICTN BWE concentrations and their effects on the HBV in vitro.

RESULTS

Our results showed that 75 µg/mL ICTN BWE downregulated the relative expression of the hepatitis B virus surface antigens (HBsAg) to 77.1%. Using the human liver cancer cell lines HuH-7 and HepG2, and 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-zyl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) and tumour clonogenic assays, we then showed that ICTN BWE inhibits hepatocellular carcinoma growth.

CONCLUSION

Fluorescent microscopy of DAPI(4',6-Diamidino-2-phenylindole)-stained nuclei and DNA fragmentation assays confirmed the inhibitory effects of ICTN BWE on liver tumour cell growth through induction of apoptosis.

Selaginella tamariscina extract suppresses TPA-induced invasion and metastasis through inhibition of MMP-9 in human nasopharyngeal carcinoma HONE-1 cells

Background

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is known for its high incidence of neck lymph node metastasis, which represents poor prognosis. The present study aimed to examine the anti-metastatic properties of Selaginella tamariscina extract (STE) in human nasopharyngeal carcinoma HONE-1 cells in vitro.

Methods

Cell viability was examined by MTT assay, whereas cell motility was measured by invasive, migration and would healing assays. Real-time PCR, and promoter assays confirmed the inhibitory effects of STE on matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) mRNA level in HONE-1 cells.

Results

The STE inhibits 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA)-induced HONE-1 cell migration and invasion in a concentration-dependent manner. By zymographic and Western blot analyses, STE was shown to inhibit the activities and expression of MMP-9. Treatment of STE on TPA-induced HONE-1 cells inhibited MMP-9 expression and ERK1/2 phosphorylation without affecting JNK and p38 phosphorylation.

Conclusions

STE inhibits MMP-9 expression and HONE-1 cell metastasis. Its inhibitory effects may involve the Src/FAK/ERK 1/2 pathway. STE may have the potential of being an anti-metastatic agent against NPC.

Selaginellatamariscina attenuates metastasis via Akt pathways in oral cancer cells

BACKGROUND

Crude extracts of Selaginellatamariscina, an oriental medicinal herb, have been evidenced to treat several human diseases. This study investigated the mechanisms by which Selaginellatamariscina inhibits the invasiveness of human oral squamous-cell carcinoma (OSCC) HSC-3 cells.

METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS

Herein, we demonstrate that Selaginellatamariscina attenuated HSC-3 cell migration and invasion in a dose-dependent manner. The anti-metastatic activities of Selaginellatamariscina occurred at least partially because of the down-regulation of matrix metalloproteinases (MMP)-2 and MMP-9 gelatinase activity and the down-regulation of protein expression. The expression and function of both MMP-2 and MMP-9 were regulated by Selaginellatamariscina at a transcriptional level, as shown by quantitative real-time PCR and reporter assays. Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) data further indicated that binding of the cAMP response element-binding (CREB) protein and activating protein-1 (AP-1) to the MMP-2 promoter diminished at the highest dosage level of Selaginellatamariscina. The DNA-binding activity of specificity protein 1 (SP-1) to the MMP-9 promoter was also suppressed at the same concentration. Selaginellatamariscina did not affect the mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling pathway, but did inhibit the effects of gelatinase by reducing the activation of serine-threonine kinase Akt.

CONCLUSIONS

These results demonstrate that Selaginellatamariscina may be a potent adjuvant therapeutic agent in the prevention of oral cancer.

Preliminary Evaluation of In Vitro Cytotoxicity and In Vivo Antitumor Activity of Xanthium strumarium in Transplantable Tumors in Mice

In the present study, active fractions of the methanolic extract of Xanthium strumarium (XS) showing potent cytotoxicity were determined using microculture tetrazolium (MTT) and sulforhodamine B (SRB) assays in selected cancer cell lines. The active fractions viz., chloroform soluble fraction of root (CEXSR), hexane soluble fraction of leaf (HEXSL), hexane soluble fraction of fruits (HEXSF) and chloroform soluble fraction of fruits (CEXSF) of XS were tested in transplantable animal tumor models for their antitumor potential. Dalton's ascitic lymphoma (DLA) cells were used to induce solid and liquid (ascites) tumor in mice. The tumor bearing animals were treated with active fractions at two dose levels (100 and 200 mg/kg). The antitumor activities of the active fractions in tumor bearing animals were monitored with parameters such as body weight and increase in life-span as well as biochemical and hematological modalities (in the case of liquid tumor). Tumor incidence and tumor volume were the parameters monitored in the case of the solid tumor model. The results were analyzed by one-way ANOVA followed by Tukey's post hoc test. The extracts were found to increase the life-span of tumor bearing animals and restore the altered hematological and biochemical parameters significantly.

Selaginella tamariscina water extract inhibits receptor activator for the nuclear factor-κB ligand-induced osteoclast differentiation by blocking mitogen-activated protein kinase and NF-κB signaling

Background:

Selaginella tamariscina has been traditionally used in Korea for treating hematochezia, hematuria, and prolapse of the anus. The aim of this study was to evaluate the inhibitory effect of Selaginella tamariscina water extract (ST-WE) on osteoclast differentiation, and to determine the underlying molecular mechanism.

Materials and Methods:

RAW264.7 cells were used as a model to examine receptor activator for the nuclear factor-κB ligand (RANKL)-induced osteoclast differentiation. Expression of osteoclastic genes and transcription factors was evaluated by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (QPCR). Activation of the mitogen-activated protein kinases, extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), and p38, and NF-κB were determined by Western blot analysis.

Results:

ST-WE significantly inhibited RANKL-induced tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) activity and formation of multinucleated osteoclasts in RAW264.7 cells. ST-WE also significantly inhibited the RANKL-induced mRNA expression of TRAP, cathepsin K, and the d2 isoform of vacuolar ATPase V(0) domain (ATPv0d2) gene. In addition, ST-WE inhibited the RANKL-induced phosphorylation of ERK, JNK, and p38, phosphorylation of I-κB_α and NF-κB p65, and the expression of transcription factors c-fos, Fra-2, and nuclear factor of activated T cells 1. Furthermore, ST inhibited the bone resorptive activity of osteoclasts.

Conclusion:

ST-WE might have beneficial effects on bonedisease by inhibiting osteoclastogenesis and osteoclastic activity.

Inhibition of melanogenesis by Xanthium strumarium L

Xanthium strumarium L. (Asteraceae) is traditionally used in Korea to treat skin diseases. In this study, we investigated the effects of a X. strumarium stem extract on melanin synthesis. It inhibited melanin synthesis in a concentration-dependent manner, but it did not directly inhibit tyrosinase, the rate-limiting melanogenic enzyme, and instead downregulated microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (MITF) and tyrosinase expression. MITF, the master regulator of pigmentation, is a target of the Wnt signaling pathway, which includes glycogen synthase kinase 3β (GSK3β) and β-catenin. Hence, the influence of X. strumarium stem extract on GSK3β and β-catenin was further investigated. X. strumarium induced GSK3β phosphorylation (inactivation), but the level of β-catenin did not change. Moreover, a specific GSK3β inhibitor restored X. strumarium-induced melanin reduction. Hence, we suggest that X. strumarium inhibits melanin synthesis through downregulation of tyrosinase via GSK3β phosphorylation.

Amentoflavone inhibits UVB-induced matrix metalloproteinase-1 expression through the modulation of AP-1 components in normal human fibroblasts

Amentoflavone is a well-known biflavonoid that has diverse biological effects. Previously, we reported that amentoflavone suppressed UVB-induced matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1) expression in normal human fibroblasts (NHF). We investigated the effects of amentoflavone on UVB-induced MMP-1 expression in order to elucidate its mode of action. NHF were treated with amentoflavone for indicated times and doses with UVB irradiation. The expressions of MMP-1 gene and protein were determined by RT-PCR and ELISA, respectively. MAP kinase phosphorylation and the expression of c-Fos protein were determined by Western blot. The treatment of amentoflavone completely blocked the upregulation of MMP-1 which is induced by UVB irradiation in HaCaT-NHF co-culture in a dose-dependent manner as well as in NHF monoculture. Also, amentoflavone inhibited UVB-induced activation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) without changing total ERK protein level, and did not affect p38 or JNK activation. Finally, AP-1 transcription factor components, phospho-c-Jun and c-Fos protein expressions were decreased by amentoflavone treatment. The major finding of this study shows that amentoflavone inhibits intracellular cell signaling ERK pathway leading to the prevention of MMP-1 expression in human skin fibroblasts. Therefore, these results strongly suggest that amentoflavone should be investigated as a potential agent for the prevention and the treatment of skin photoaging.

Two new selaginellin derivatives from Selaginella tamariscina (Beauv.) Spring

Two new selaginellin derivatives, selaginellins K (1) and L (2), were isolated from Selaginella tamariscina (Beauv.) Spring and characterized as 2-formyl-4,4'-dihydroxy-3-[(4-hydroxyphenyl)ethynyl]biphene and 4,4'-dihydroxy-2-methyl-3-[(4-hydroxyphenyl)ethynyl]biphene on the basis of their spectroscopic data including UV, IR, 1D, and 2D NMR as well as HR-ESI-MS spectroscopic analysis.

Selaginellin C, a new natural pigment from Selaginella pulvinata Maxim (Hook et Grev.)

A novel compound, selaginellin C (1), was isolated from Selaginella pulvinata Maxim (Hook et Grev.) as (R,S)-4-((1,2-dihydroxyethyl)-2',4'-dihydroxy-3-((4-hydroxyphenyl)ethynyl)biphenyl-2-yl)((4-hydroxyphenyl)methylene)cyclohexa-2,5-dienone, along with two known compounds, selaginellin (2) and selaginellin A (3). The structure of the new compound was elucidated on the basis of 1D and 2D NMR as well as HR-ESI-MS spectroscopic analysis.

The effects of Fructus Xanthii extract on cytokine release from human mast cell line (HMC-1) and peripheral blood mononuclear cells

In the present study, human mast cell line (HMC-1) and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMNC) were pre-incubated with various concentrations of Fructus xanthii extract solution followed by being stimulated with phorbol myristate acetate and further incubated for 24 hours. The cytokines, in cell culture supernatants, of interleukin (IL)-4, IL-6, IL-8, GM-CSF, and TNF-alpha in the supernatant were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The results demonstrated that Fructus xanthii could modulate the mast cell-mediated and PBMNC-mediated inflammatory and immunological reactions modulated by cytokines. And our study supplied the evidence of the mechanisms of Fructus Xanthii in treating inflammatory and allergic diseases.

Seselin from Plumbago zeylanica inhibits phytohemagglutinin (PHA)-stimulated cell proliferation in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells

Effects of seselin (C(14)H(12)O(3); MW 228) identified from Plumbago zeylanica on phytohemagglutinin (PHA)-stimulated cell proliferation were studied in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC). The data demonstrated that seselin inhibited PBMC proliferation-activated with PHA with an IC(50) of 53.87+/-0.74 microM. Cell viability test indicated that inhibitory effects of seselin on PBMC proliferation were not through direct cytotoxicity. The action mechanisms of seselin may involve the regulation of cell cycle progression, interleukin-2 (IL-2) and interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) production in PBMC. Since cell cycle analysis indicated that seselin arrested the cell cycle progression of activated PBMC from the G(1) transition to the S phase. Seselin suppressed IL-2 and IFN-gamma production in a concentration-dependent manner. Furthermore, seselin significantly decreased the IL-2 and IFN-gamma gene expression in PHA-activated PBMC. Therefore, results elucidated for the first time that seselin is likely an immunomodulatory agent for PBMC.

How to realize the linear scale-up process for rapid purification using high-performance counter-current chromatography

This study used the isolation of six constituents from Selaginella tamariscina as an example to demonstrate how to achieve rapid and predictable linear scale-up processes in both normal- and reversed-phase high-performance counter-current chromatography. After systematic optimization of solvent systems, sample concentration, sample loading volume, rotation speed and flow rate on the analytical Mini-DE centrifuge, the optimized parameters obtained were directly transferred to the preparative Midi-DE centrifuge, with nearly the same purities, resolutions and elution times but with 50 times the throughput. Amentoflavone (446.7 mg, 97.8%), robustaflavone (21.6 mg, 89.4%), bilobetin (80.7 mg, 92.7%), hinokiflavone (15.1 mg, 85.5%), isocryptomerin (34.8 mg, 89.6%) and an apigenin-diglucoside (46.3mg, 96.4%) were obtained with amounts and purities shown in parentheses as analysed by HPLC. The process, therefore, offers an efficient and rapid method of obtaining sufficient quantities of target compounds with significantly increased throughput after a linear scale-up.

Biflavonoids isolated from Selaginella tamariscina regulate the expression of matrix metalloproteinase in human skin fibroblasts

The methanol extract from Selaginella tamariscina significantly inhibited UV irradiation induced activity of matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1) in primary fibroblasts from human skin. Using the technique of bioassay-directed chromatographic separation, five biflavonoids were isolated from the ethyl acetate soluble fraction of S. tamariscina. Here, we investigated the effect of these five biflavonoids on the regulation of MMP-1 and -2 in UV irradiated cultured dermal fibroblasts from human neonatal foreskins. Among these biflavonoids, sumaflavone and amentoflavone showed significant MMP-1 inhibitory activity in primary human dermal fibroblasts after UV irradiation. The IC(50) values of sumaflavone, amentoflavone and retinoic acid, which was used as a positive control, were 0.78, 1.8, and 10microM, respectively.

Tanshinlactone A from Salvia miltiorrhiza modulates interleukin-2 and interferon-gamma gene expression

Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge (Tanshen), a traditional Chinese herbal medicine, is popularly used to treat cardiovascular disorders. In the present study, effects of tanshinlactone A (C(16)H(12)O(4); M.W. 268), newly discovered from Salvia miltiorrhiza, on phytohemagglutinin (PHA)-stimulated cell proliferation were investigated in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC). The results indicated that tanshinlactone A inhibited PBMC proliferation activated with PHA with an IC(50) of 15.6+/-1.9 microM. Cell viability test indicated that inhibitory effects of tanshinlactone A on PBMC proliferation were not through direct cytotoxicity. Furthermore, tanshinlactone A significantly decreased the interleukin-2 (IL-2) and interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) gene expression in PHA-activated PBMC. It reduced the phosphorylation of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK) involving extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase (ERK), P38, and c-Jun NH(2)-terminal kinase (JNK) in PHA-treated PBMC. We suggested that the inhibitory effects of tanshinlactone A on PHA-induced PBMC proliferation, appeared to be mediated, at least in part, through reduction of MAPK activation and IL-2 and IFN-gamma production. Therefore, data demonstrate for the first time that tanshinlactone A is likely an immunomodulatory agent for PBMC.

Antimetastatic activities of Selaginella tamariscina (Beauv.) on lung cancer cells in vitro and in vivo

Selaginella tamariscina is a traditional Chinese herb for the therapy of chronic trachitis and has been approved some anti-tumor activity. However, the anti-metastasis effects of Selaginella tamariscina in the lung cancer have not been understood clearly. The objectives of study were to investigate the effects of the Selaginella tamariscina extracts (STE) on the invasion and motility of highly metastatic A549 and Lewis lung carcinoma (LLC) cells. To further investigate the precise involvement of STE in tumor metastasis, A549 and LLC cells were treated with STE at various concentrations (0-100 microg/mL) for a specified period. The results from zymography showed that a STE treatment decreased (p<0.05) the expressions of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2, -9 and urokinase plasminogen activator (u-PA) in a dose-dependent manner in the A549 and LLC cell. Meanwhile, their endogenous inhibitors, which are tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-2 (TIMP-2) and plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1), were increased in the A549 cell. Furthermore, the inhibitory effect of STE on the growth and metastasis of LLC cells in vivo was also proven. These results demonstrated that STE could be a candidate antimetastatic agent against lung cancer.

Potent inhibition of the inductions of inducible nitric oxide synthase and cyclooxygenase-2 by taiwaniaflavone

The improper productions of nitric oxide and prostaglandins following the inductions of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) are involved in the pathogenesis of chronic inflammation. Selaginella tamariscina is used as an oriental medicine for its anti-inflammatory effects. Here, we isolated taiwaniaflavone from S. tamariscina and investigated whether taiwaniaflavone affects the induction of iNOS and COX-2 in RAW264.7 macrophages stimulated with lipopolysaccharide. We found that taiwaniaflavone blocks the transactivations of iNOS and COX-2 genes by blocking the nuclear translocation of p65 and subsequent nuclear factor-kappaB inactivation. It is known that NF-kappaB activation is controlled by the phosphorylation and subsequent degradation of I-kappaBalpha, and in the present study, we found that the phosphorylation and degradation of I-kappaBalpha were also inhibited by taiwaniaflavone. Our findings indicate that taiwaniaflavone may provide a developmental basis for an agent against inflammatory diseases.

Selaginella tamariscina induces apoptosis via a caspase-3-mediated mechanism in human promyelocytic leukemia cells

Cell apoptosis is now known to play an important role in the maintenance of cellular homeostasis and anticarcinogenesis. Selaginella tamariscina (ST) is a traditional medicinal plant for treatment of advanced cancer in the Orient. In the present study, the anticancer effect of ST was investigated by analyzing its potential to induce apoptosis in human leukemia HL-60 cells. ST-induced cytotoxicity of HL-60 cells was monitored by the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay. The apoptosis was determined by microscopic examination of apoptotic morphology, determination of DNA fragmentation by electrophoresis, activation of caspase-3, and protein expression of procaspase-3, poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) cleavage, Bcl-2, and Bax. ST was cytotoxic to HL-60 cells in a dose-dependent manner. However, ST-induced cytotoxicity was suppressed by reactive oxygen species scavengers, including superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase. ST caused DNA fragmentation and nuclear condensation, all characteristics of apoptosis. ST-induced apoptosis is accompanied by the activation of caspase-3 and the specific proteolytic cleavage of PARP. Concomitantly, ST treatments led to an increase in the proapoptotic Bax levels, while Bcl-2 expression was decreased. Moreover, this effect was attenuated by SOD and catalase. These results suggest that oxidative stress may be involved in the cytotoxicity of ST, and that ST-induced apoptosis of HL-60 cells is primarily mediated by the caspase activation pathway.

Inhibition of inducible nitric oxide synthase by sumaflavone isolated from Selaginella tamariscina

We previously reported that amentoflavone isolated from Selaginella tamariscina inhibits the production of nitric oxide (NO) in macrophages via nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-kappaB) inactivation. Here, we isolated two other bi-flavonoid compounds (sumaflavone and robustaflavone) from Selaginella tamariscina and studied their effects on inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) gene expression. Sumaflavone inhibited NO production in a concentration-dependent manner and blocked the lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced expression of iNOS. In contrast, robustaflavone only marginally affected iNOS gene expression and NO production. To identify the transcriptional factors affected by sumaflavone, we investigated NF-kappaB and AP-1 activation. Reporter gene analysis using AP-1-specific luciferase reporter and gel shift analysis showed that enhanced AP-1 activity by LPS was significantly diminished in macrophages pretreated with sumaflavone. However, sumaflavone did not inhibit LPS-inducible NF-kappaB reporter activity. Western blot analyses also confirmed that the extent of I-kappaBalpha phosphorylation and the nuclear level of p65 were unaffected by sumaflavone. These results suggest that the inhibitory effect of sumaflavone on AP-1 activation may be associated with the potent NO blocking and anti-inflammatory effects of Selaginella tamariscina extract.

Inhibition of Nuclear Factor-.KAPPA.B Activation by 2',8"-Biapigenin

Inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) play a key role in the inflammatory processes. Improper overproduction of NO and prostaglandins by both enzymes are also believed to be involved in the pathogenesis of certain human cancers. Crude extracts of Selaginella tamariscina are used as an oriental medicine, which has been reported to inhibit the production of proinflammatory cytokines and cause cell cycle arrest. We isolated 2',8''-biapigenin from S. tamariscina and investigated whether it modulates iNOS and COX-2 expressions in Raw264.7 macrophages stimulated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). We found that 2',8''-biapigenin blocked the transactivations of iNOS and COX-2 genes via the inactivation of nuclear factor-kappaB by preventing the nuclear translocation of p65. Hence, it may be possible to develop S. tamariscina extracts or 2',8''-biapigenin as a useful agent for cancer chemoprevention or for the treatment of inflammatory diseases.

The study of Chinese medicinal herbal formula Shen San Fang in the treatment of experimental IgA nephropathy

IgA nephropathy (IgAN) is the most common primary glomerulonephritis worldwide, yet there is no effective or specific therapy. Shen San Fang (S3F) is a traditional Chinese herbal medicinal formula that has been used in China for many years to treat patients with hematuria. The aim of this study is to test the therapeutic value of S3F in an experimental model of IgAN. IgAN was induced in Lewis rats by continuous oral immunization with bovine gamma-globulin (BGG) in the drinking water for 8 weeks, followed by intravenous injection of 1 mg BGG daily for 3 successive days. The rats were randomly divided into four groups (five rats/group): control, control receiving S3F, induction of IgAN, and IgAN receiving S3E S3F decoction was fed to rats beginning week 4 from the first day of oral sensitization with BGG. The S3F treatment was continued until the rats were sacrificed or for a 4-week period. Hematuria, renal immunohistochemistry for IgA and transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-beta1), renal histopathology, and renal content of TGF-beta1 were measured. Rats developing IgAN had marked hematuria, profound mesangial proliferation and mesangial expansion, intense and diffuse glomerular IgA deposition, increased glomerular TGF-beta1 expression, and raised renal TGF-beta1 levels. S3F treatment resulted in a significant reduction of hematuria, decreased mesangial IgA deposition, weaker immunostaining of TGF-beta1 in glomerulus, and a lower renal TGF-beta1 concentration. Our animal data suggests a therapeutic value for the Chinese medicinal formula S3F in experimental IgAN. This beneficial effect was due to reduced glomerular IgA deposition and TGF-beta1 expression. Our preliminary findings hold promise for future human therapy.

Xanthii fructus inhibits inflammatory responses in LPS-stimulated mouse peritoneal macrophages

Xanthii Fructus (XF) is an herb widely used in medicine for the treatment of a variety of inflammatory pathologies. In this study, using mouse peritoneal macrophages, we have examined whether XF affects nitric oxide (NO), tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha, and interleukin (IL)-12p40 production induced by interferon (IFN)-gamma and lipopolysaccharide (LPS). XF inhibits IFN-gamma and LPS-induced NO production in a dose dependent manner. The decrease in NO synthesis was reflected as a decreased amount of inducible NO synthase protein. Furthermore, we also found that XF inhibits pro-inflammatory cytokine TNF-alpha production. However, treatment of XF in peritoneal macrophages had no effect on IL-12p40 production. These findings suggest that XF may be used in controlling macrophages-mediated inflammatory diseases.

Inhibitory effects of Cnidium officinale Makino and Tabanus fulvus Meigan on the high glucose-induced proliferation of glomerular mesangial cells

This study describes a potent activity of Cnidium officinale Makino (Cnidii rhizoma) and Tabanus fulvus Meigan (Tabanus) as an inhibitor of high glucose-induced proliferation of glomerular mesangial cells (GMCs). Raising the ambient glucose concentration from 5.6 to 25 mM for 24 h caused a dramatic increase in [3H]thymidine incorporation, and these increases were attenuated by treatment of GMCs with the extracts of Cnidii rhizoma and Tabanus (2.5-20 microg/ml) in a dose-dependent manner. In contrast, extracts of Cnidii rhizoma or Tabanus (20 microg/ml) did not change the growth of GMCs cultured under normal glucose condition. To clarify the mechanism involved in anti-proliferative activity of these medicines, this study examined the effects of Cnidii rhizoma and Tabanus on high glucose-stimulated extracellular matrix (ECM) protein accumulation and transforming growth factor-beta1 (TGF-beta1) production. Exposure of GMCs to high glucose significantly stimulated the ECM protein, collagen and fibronectin, accumulation and TGF-beta1 secretion, and these changes were dramatically diminished by treatment of GMCs with extracts of Cnidii rhizoma or Tabanus (10 microg/ml). Taken together, these results indicate that Cnidii rhizoma and Tabanus inhibit the high glucose-induced GMC proliferation partially through suppressing the ECM accumulation and TGF-beta1 production, suggesting that these medicines may be a promising agent for treating the development and progression of diabetic glomerulopathy.

Phytolacca americana inhibits the high glucose-induced mesangial proliferation via suppressing extracellular matrix accumulation and TGF-beta production

This study describes a potential of Phytolaccaceae (Phytolacca americana var.) as an inhibitor of high glucose-stimulated production of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins and TGF-beta in cultured glomerular mesangial cells (GMCs). Raising the ambient glucose concentration for 24 hrs caused a dose-dependent increase in [3H]thymidine incorporation of GMCs, and the maximal response was achieved at 20 mM. Phytolaccaceae extracts (2.5-20 microg/ml) inhibited the high glucose-induced [3H]thymidine incorporation in a dose-dependent manner, and the concentrations tested here did not affect to the cell viability. Exposure of the GMCs to 20 mM glucose caused both ECM (collagen and fibronectin) accumulation and TGF-beta secretion, and these changes were significantly diminished by treatment of GMCs with Phytolaccaceae (10 microg/ml). Taken together, these results indicate that Phytolaccaceae inhibits the high glucose-induced GMCs proliferation partially through suppressing accumulation of ECM components and TGF-beta production, suggesting that Phytolaccaceae may be a promising agent for treating the development and progression of diabetic glomerulopathy.

Inhibitory effects of Xanthii fructus extract on mast cell-mediated allergic reaction in murine model

The effect of aqueous extract of Xanthii fructus (XF) on mast cell-mediated allergic reaction has been investigated. XF inhibited compound 48/80-induced systemic anaphylaxis in mouse. This dose-dependently inhibited histamine release from rat peritoneal mast cells (RPMC) by compound 48/80. Additionally, XF inhibited local immunoglobulin E (IgE)-mediated passive cutaneous anaphylatic reaction. When XF (0.1mg/ml) was added, the secretion of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) from anti-dinitrophenyl (DNP) IgE antibody-stimulated mast cells was inhibited by 56%. Our studies provide evidence that XF may be beneficial in the treatment of various types allergic diseases.

Immunomodulatory functions of extracts from the Chinese medicinal fungus Cordyceps cicadae

The effects of Cordyceps cicadae extracted fractions on human mononuclear cells (HMNC) proliferation were determined by tritiated thymidine uptake. The results indicated that aqueous methanol (50%) extracts of C. cicadae ascocarps portion (CC-1-2) enhanced HMNC proliferation activated with phytohemagglutinin (PHA) with an EC(50) of 13.8+/-4.6 micro g/ml. By contrast, the methanol (100%) extracts of C. cicadae insect-body portion (CC-2-1) suppressed HMNC proliferation stimulated by PHA with an IC(50) of 32.5+/-5.2 micro g/ml. Cell viability test indicated that inhibitory effects of CC-2-1 on HMNC proliferation were not through direct cytotoxicity. The action mechanisms of CC-1-2 and CC-2-1 may involve the regulation of interleukin-2 (IL-2) and interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) production in HMNC. Since CC-2-1 suppressed IL-2 and IFN-gamma production in HMNC induced with PHA. The CC-1-2 enhanced IL-2 and IFN-gamma production of HMNC stimulated with PHA in a concentration dependent manner. Therefore, the results demonstrated that C. cicadae contained growth modulators for HMNC.

Cell cycle progression and cytokine gene expression of human peripheral blood mononuclear cells modulated by Agaricus blazei

We selected Agaricus blazei Murill, used in the treatment of tissue inflammation and cancer in traditional Chinese medicine, to test its immunopharmacological activity. The effects of A. blazei extracted fractions (AB-BDM-1 to AB-BDM-10) on human peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) proliferation were determined on the basis of the uptake of tritiated thymidine. The results indicated that AB-BDM-2 fraction suppressed PBMC proliferation activated with phytohemagglutinin. The inhibitory action of AB-BDM-2 did not involve direct cytotoxicity. Cell-cycle analysis indicated that AB-BDM-2 arrested the cell-cycle progression of activated PBMCs from the G1 transition to the S phase. In an attempt to further localize the point in the cell cycle where arrest occurred, we examined a set of key regulatory events leading to the G1/S boundary, including gene expression of interleukin-2 (IL-2), interleukin-4 (IL-4), interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma), and cyclin D. AB-BDM-2 suppressed, in activated PBMCs, the production and messenger RNA (mRNA) expression of IL-2, IL-4, IFN-gamma, and cyclin D in dose-dependent fashion. AB-BDM-2 did not affect nitric oxide production or levels of inducible nitric oxide synthetase mRNA in PBMCs stimulated with PHA. The suppressant effects of AB-BDM-2 on the proliferation of PBMC activated by PHA therefore appear to be mediated, at least in part, through inhibition of early transcripts of PBMCs, especially those of important cytokines IL-2, IL-4, and IFN-gamma, cyclin D, and the arrest of cell-cycle progression in the cells. We suggest that immunomodulatory agents are contained in AB-BDM-2 separated from A. blazei.

Regulation of herpes simplex virus type 1 replication in Vero cells by Psychotria serpens: relationship to gene expression, DNA replication, and protein synthesis

Inhibitory effects of ethanolic extracts from seven Chinese herbs on herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) replication were investigated. From a bioassay-guided fractionation procedure, PS-A-6 was isolated from Psychotria serpens (P. serpens), which suppressed HSV-1 multiplication in Vero cells without apparent cytotoxicity. Time-of-addition experiments suggested that the inhibitory action of PS-A-6 on HSV-1 replication was not through blocking of virus adsorption. In an attempt to further localize the point in the HSV-1 replication cycle where arrest occurred, a set of key regulatory events leading to viral multiplication was examined, including viral gene expression, DNA replication, and structural protein synthesis. The results indicated that gB mRNA and protein expression in Vero cells were impeded by PS-A-6. Southern blot analysis showed that HSV-1 DNA replication in Vero cells was arrested by PS-A-6. In addition, PS-A-6 decreased thymidine kinase (tk) and ICP27 mRNA expression in the cells. The mechanisms of antiviral action of PS-A-6 seem to be mediated, at least in part, through inhibition of early transcripts of HSV-1, such as tk and ICP27 mRNAs, arresting HSV-1 DNA synthesis and gB gene expression in Vero cells. Plans are underway for the isolation of pure compounds from PS-A-6 and elucidation of their mechanism of action.

Rationales for treating IgA nephropathies

An outline is given of the pathophysiology of IgA nephropathy (IgA) in order to emphasize the role of eicosanoids, angiotensin II, and reactive oxygen species. ACE inhibitors and early corticosteroid usage are prime therapies. Tonsillectomy is to be considered, certainly for individual cases. It is logical that other components of a cocktail could be (i) thromboxane antagonists, (ii) leukotriene antagonists, or (iii) PAF antagonist. In theory there should be benefit from antioxidants. Fish oils have not come up to expectation. PDGF aptamers look promising for the prevention of mesangial cell proliferation. Heparins are not used in the way that they could be. Various other agents could help reduce decline.

Effects of Selaginella tamariscina on in vitro tumor cell growth, p53 expression, G1 arrest and in vivo gastric cell proliferation

Selaginella tamariscina, an oriental medicinal plant, was extracted using water and several organic solvents, and each fraction was assayed for its tumoricidal effects with 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT). Influences on expression of p53 tumor suppressor gene and induction of G1 arrest in the cell cycle were analyzed by Northern blotting and flow cytometry, respectively. The modifying effects of pulverized Selaginella tamariscina on cell turnover in the stomach were also investigated in rats given 150 mg/kg of N-methyl-N'-nitro-N-nitrosoguanidine (MNNG) by gavage and then fed a diet containing 5, 1 or 0% Selaginella tamariscina. Fractions I-V showed significant tumoricidal effects against cultured human leukemia cells whereas these fractions did not affect normal human lymphocytes. Among the effective fractions, the water-extracted fraction (V) efficiently increased p53 gene expression and induced G1 arrest. The 1% Selaginella tamariscina feeding caused a significant reduction (P < 0.05) in the proliferating cell nuclear antigen-(PCNA) labeling index of the glandular stomach epithelium as compared with the MNNG-alone group value although 5% Selaginella tamariscina feeding was only associated with a tendency for decrease. These results suggest that Selaginella tamariscina could be a candidate chemopreventive agent against gastric cancer.