Noncytotoxic 16,23-epoxycucurbitacin-type triterpenoids from Elaeocarpus hainanensis

Phytochemical investigation of methanol extract from Elaeocarpus hainanensis Oliv. leaves and twigs led to the isolation and structural determination of three 16,23-epoxycucurbitacin-type triterpenoids, including a new hydroperoxide, 16α,23α-epoxy-3β,20β-dihydroxy-24α-hydroperoxy-10αH,23βH-cucurbit-5,25-dien-11-one (elahainencin A, 1), and two known analogs (2 and 3). Their chemical structures were determined by the spectroscopic analyses, including 1 D-, 2 D NMR and HR ESI MS spectra. Compound 1 represents a cucurbitacin derivative incorporating a hydroperoxide. In addition, these isolated compounds have been found to be noncytotoxic when tested in vitro against five human cancer cell lines (A549, T24, 8505, Huh-7 and SNU-1) by using the SRB method.

Identification and nitric oxide production inhibitory activity of phenolic derivatives from the trunks of Gnetum latifolium

Phytochemical investigation of the trunks from Gnetum latifolium led to the isolation of a novel phenolic glucoside, 2E-2,4-di-(3,4-dihydroxyphenyl)but-2-en-1-yl-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (1), along with five known stilbene derivatives (2-6). Their structures were determined mainly using high-resolution electrospray ionisation mass spectrometry and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopic analyses, followed by comparisons of observed spectral data with reported values. The novel compound 1 in G. latifolium was found to be useful as a chemotaxonomic marker. Biological evaluation revealed that compound 6 had remarkable inhibitory effects on nitric oxide production, with a half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) value of 4.85 ± 0.20 µM, which was much higher than that of the positive control dexamethasone (IC50 = 14.20 ± 0.54 µM).

Novel trans-caffeate hydrazide derivatives: synthesis, inhibition of nitric oxide (NO) production and molecular docking studies

Eight new caffeyl hydrazide derivatives (4a-4h) were synthesised via a convenient esterification of caffeic acid with some substituted aryl acid hydrazides. The synthesised caffeyl derivatives were evaluated for their inhibitory effects on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced nitric oxide (NO) production in RAW264.7 macrophages. The fluorobenzoylhydrazide derivatives 4f, 4 g and 4h were found to be the most powerful anti-inflammatory compounds with IC50 values ranging from 11.90 to 24.17 μM, which were more potent than the reference compound L-NMMA (IC50 32.8 μM). Additionally, synthesised compounds have been rationalised by using molecular docking studies which were performed in order to understand insights on the action mechanism of newly synthesised inhibitors against inflammatory mediator (iNOS). Obtained data indicate that compounds 4f, 4h, 4a and 4 g were observed to effectively bind to iNOS receptor with dock score values of -11.62, -10.81, -10.78 and -10.51 kcal/mol, respectively.

Enterosorbents in complex therapy of food allergies: a focus on digestive disorders and systemic toxicity in children

The review analyzes mechanisms and concomitant factors in developing IgE-associated allergic diseases provoked by food allergens and discusses clinical symptoms and current approaches for the treatment of food allergies. The expediency of using enterosorbents in complex therapy of food allergies and skin and respiratory manifestations associated with gastroenterological disorders is substantiated. The review summarizes the experience of using enterosorbents in post-Soviet countries to detoxify the human body. In this regard, special attention is paid to the enterosorbent White Coal (Carbowhite) based on silicon dioxide produced by the Ukrainian company OmniFarma.

Four New Stilbene Derivatives Isolated from Gnetum latifolium var. funiculare Markgr. and Their Inhibition of NO Production in LPS-activated RAW264.7 Cells

Gnetum latifolium var. funiculare Markgr. is a medicinal plant and widely distributed in mountainous areas of Vietnam. Phytochemical investigation on the trunks of this plant afforded eight stilbene derivatives (1-8) including for new compounds (1-4). Their structures were determined based on extensive analyses of HR-ESI-MS, 1D and 2D NMR spectra. Among the isolates, compounds 1-3 showed moderate NO production inhibition in LPS-activated RAW264.7 cells with the IC50 values ranging from 46.81 to 68.10 μM, compounds 4 and 6 showed weak effects with the IC50 values of 96.57 and 79.46 μM, respectively, compared to that of the positive control compound, dexamethasone (IC50 14.20 μM).

Oleanane-type triterpenoid sulphates, two new α-glucosidase inhibitors from Elaeocarpus hainanensis

In connection with our interest in the phytochemical investigation of Elaeocarpus hainanensis Oliv. (Elaeocarpaceae) growing in Vietnam, two new sulphated oleanane triterpenes were obtained herein and structurally identified. Based on the combination of the extensive 1D-, 2D NMR and HR ESI MS spectroscopic data analysis, their chemical structures have been elucidated as 1α,3β-dihydroxy-olean-18-ene 1-sulphate (1) and 1α,3β-dihydroxy-olean-12-ene 1-sulphate (2). Notably, compounds 1 and 2 are corroborating the proposition that triterpenoid sulphates serve as chemosystematic markers of the Elaeocarpus genus. Additionally, all these two new compounds 1 and 2 strongly inhibited α-glucosidase in vitro with the respective IC50 values of 3.81 ± 0.33 µM and 21.27 ± 0.48 µM, which were significantly better than that obtained from positive control, acarbose (IC50 247.73 ± 11.85 µM).

Potassium Channels, Glucose Metabolism and Glycosylation in Cancer Cells

Potassium channels emerge as one of the crucial groups of proteins that shape the biology of cancer cells. Their involvement in processes like cell growth, migration, or electric signaling, seems obvious. However, the relationship between the function of K+ channels, glucose metabolism, and cancer glycome appears much more intriguing. Among the typical hallmarks of cancer, one can mention the switch to aerobic glycolysis as the most favorable mechanism for glucose metabolism and glycome alterations. This review outlines the interconnections between the expression and activity of potassium channels, carbohydrate metabolism, and altered glycosylation in cancer cells, which have not been broadly discussed in the literature hitherto. Moreover, we propose the potential mediators for the described relations (e.g., enzymes, microRNAs) and the novel promising directions (e.g., glycans-orinented drugs) for further research.

Sesquiterpenoids from Tithonia diversifolia (Hemsl.) A. Gray induce apoptosis and inhibit the cell cycle progression of acute myeloid leukemia cells

Three sesquiterpene lactones (1-3) were isolated from the aerial part of Tithonia diversifolia (Hemsl.) A. Gray grown in the Hoa Binh province in Viet Nam. The structures of these three sesquiterpene lactones were identified as tagitinin A (1), 1β-hydroxytirotundin 3-O-methyl ether (2), and tagitinin C (3) by analyzing spectroscopic data. For the first time, compound 2 was isolated from T. diversifolia growing in Viet Nam. Furthermore, contrary to existing literature, we determined that compound 1 was the major isolate. Compounds 1 and 3 significantly decreased numbers of acute myeloid leukemia OCI-AML3 cells by promoting apoptosis and causing cell cycle arrest at G0/G1 phase at concentrations as low as 2.5 μg/mL (compound 1) and 0.25 μg/mL (compound 3). Additionally, all three compounds showed cytotoxic activity against five human cancer cell lines (A549, T24, Huh-7, 8505, and SNU-1), with IC₅₀ values ranging from 1.32 ± 0.14 to 46.34 ± 2.74 μM. Overall, our findings suggest that compounds 1 and 3 may be potential anti-cancer therapeutics and thus warrant further study.

New 1,4-Dihydropyrazolo[4,3-b]indoles Induce Antiproliferation of Acute Myeloid Leukemia Cells and Inhibition of Selective Inflammatory Cytokines

Research on multitargeting drugs is emerging, focusing on the discovery of agents that simultaneously act on more than one biological target. Here, a novel synthetic route to access the fused-heterocycles 1,4-dihydropyrazolo[4,3- b]indoles (4) from pyrazolo[4,3- c][2,1]benzothiazine 4,4-dioxide (3) via [H2O–SO2] elimination and an intramolecular ring-closing reaction is reported. Two lead compounds 3b and 4b were found to show significant inhibition of cell growth by suppressing cell cycle progression at the G0/G1 phases and inducing apoptosis of the acute myeloid leukemia OCI-AML3 cell line. Both compounds also significantly decreased tumor necrosis factor-α and transforming growth factor-β (at all tested concentrations), whereas no effect was seen on other cytokines (interleukin-4, interferon-γ, interleukin-9, interleukin-12). Thus, these compounds are promising leads in the discovery of novel anticancer agents.

Glucocorticoids and natural killer cells: A suppressive relationship

Glucocorticoids exert their pharmacological actions by mimicking and amplifying the function of the endogenous glucocorticoid system's canonical physiological stress response. They affect the immune system at the levels of inflammation and adaptive and innate immunity. These effects are the basis for therapeutic use of glucocorticoids. Innate immunity is the body's first line of defense against disease conditions. It is relatively nonspecific and, among its mediators, natural killer(NK) cells link innate and acquired immunity. NK cell numbers are altered in patients with auto immune diseases, and research suggests that interactions between glucocorticoids and natural killer cells arecritical for successful glucocorticoid therapy. The aim of this review is to summarize these interactions while highlighting the latest and most important developments in this field. Production and release in theblood of endogenous glucocorticoids are strictly regulated by the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis. Aself-regulatory mechanism prevents excessive plasma levels of these hormones. However, exogenousstimuli such as stress, inflammation, infections, cancer, and autoimmune disease can trigger thehypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis response and lead to excessive systemic release of glucocorticoids.Thus, stress stimuli, such as sleep deprivation, intense exercise, depression, viral infections, andcancer, can result in release of glucocorticoids and associated immunosuppressant effects. Among theseeffects are decreases in the numbers and activities of NK cells in inflammatory and autoimmune diseases(e.g., giant cell arteritis, polymyalgia rheumatica, and familial hypogammaglobulinemia).

Putative Anticancer Compounds from Plant-Derived Endophytic Fungi: A Review

Endophytic fungi are microorganisms that exist almost ubiquitously inside the various tissues of living plants where they act as an important reservoir of diverse bioactive compounds. Recently, endophytic fungi have drawn tremendous attention from researchers; their isolation, culture, purification, and characterization have revealed the presence of around 200 important and diverse compounds including anticancer agents, antibiotics, antifungals, antivirals, immunosuppressants, and antimycotics. Many of these anticancer compounds, such as paclitaxel, camptothecin, vinblastine, vincristine, podophyllotoxin, and their derivatives, are currently being used clinically for the treatment of various cancers (e.g., ovarian, breast, prostate, lung cancers, and leukemias). By increasing the yield of specific compounds with genetic engineering and other biotechnologies, endophytic fungi could be a promising, prolific source of anticancer drugs. In the future, compounds derived from endophytic fungi could increase treatment availability and cost effectiveness. This comprehensive review includes the putative anticancer compounds from plant-derived endophytic fungi discovered from 1990 to 2020 with their source endophytic fungi and host plants as well as their antitumor activity against various cell lines.

Natural Killer Cells: Potential Biomarkers and Therapeutic Target in Autoimmune Diseases?

Autoimmune diseases recognize a multifactorial pathogenesis, although the exact mechanism responsible for their onset remains to be fully elucidated. Over the past few years, the role of natural killer (NK) cells in shaping immune responses has been highlighted even though their involvement is profoundly linked to the subpopulation involved and to the site where such interaction takes place. The aberrant number and functionality of NK cells have been reported in several different autoimmune disorders. In the present review, we report the most recent findings regarding the involvement of NK cells in both systemic and organ-specific autoimmune diseases, including type 1 diabetes (T1D), primary biliary cholangitis (PBC), systemic sclerosis, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), primary Sjögren syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, and multiple sclerosis. In T1D, innate inflammation induces NK cell activation, disrupting the Treg function. In addition, certain genetic variants identified as risk factors for T1D influenced the activation of NK cells promoting their cytotoxic activity. The role of NK cells has also been demonstrated in the pathogenesis of PBC mediating direct or indirect biliary epithelial cell destruction. NK cell frequency and number were enhanced in both the peripheral blood and the liver of patients and associated with increased NK cell cytotoxic activity and perforin expression levels. NK cells were also involved in the perpetuation of disease through autoreactive CD4 T cell activation in the presence of antigen-presenting cells. In systemic sclerosis (SSc), in addition to phenotypic abnormalities, patients presented a reduction in CD56^hi NK-cells. Moreover, NK cells presented a deficient killing activity. The influence of the activating and inhibitory killer cell immunoglobulin-like receptors (KIRs) has been investigated in SSc and SLE susceptibility. Furthermore, autoantibodies to KIRs have been identified in different systemic autoimmune conditions. Because of its role in modulating the immune-mediated pathology, NK subpopulation could represent a potential marker for disease activity and target for therapeutic intervention.

Artocarpus tonkinensis Extract Inhibits LPS-Triggered Inflammation Markers and Suppresses RANKL-Induced Osteoclastogenesis in RAW264.7

Artocarpus tonkinensis (At) leaf decoction, a traditional remedy prepared in North Vietnam by the Hmong ethnic group, is a tea extract rich in bioactive compounds that may have therapeutic effects in arthritis and backache. Indeed, it has been demonstrated that At is able to inhibit Th17 lymphocytes development and to protect mice in an experimental model of collagen-induced arthritis. By resorting to macrophage in vitro models of inflammation and osteoclastogenesis, we showed that At extract significantly reduced nitric oxide synthase 2 (NOS2) activity and IL-6 production by RAW 264.7 murine cells. Moreover, At demonstrated an anti-osteoclastogenic effect, as revealed by complete inhibition of TRAP-positive osteoclast formation and decreased expression of key osteoclast-related genes. This At activity likely relies on the inhibition of RANK downstream signaling pathway, as the activation of non-receptor tyrosine kinase Src is reduced upon RANKL-At exposure. Protective effect of At against bone loss was also enlightened in vivo by collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) experiment demonstrating that, although paw edema was only weakly opposed by drinking At decoction, bone and cartilage were well preserved in CIA+At mice and joint tissue expressed decreased levels of osteoclast marker genes respect to CIA control group. Maesopsin 4-O-β-D-glucoside (i.e., TAT-2, one of the main decoction bioactive components) was capable to contrast NOS2 activity, IL-6 expression and osteoclast formation, too, albeit to a lesser extent when compared to At decoction. Overall, this study enlightens another At cell target, macrophages, beside Th17 lymphocytes, and suggests that the anti-arthritic beneficial effects of At decoction largely derives from its ability to counteract not only inflammation, but also osteoclastogenesis.

Cell Growth Inhibition of Saponin XII from Dipsacus japonicus Miq. on Acute Myeloid Leukemia Cells

In previous studies, we isolated the known compound saponin XII from the roots of Dipsacus japonicus Miq. Here, we show that this compound reduced the number of acute myeloid leukemia OCI-AML3 cells as evaluated by a hemocytometer. Flow cytometry analyses demonstrated that the reported activity was associated with a significant increase of apoptosis and of cells in the G₀/G₁ phase of the cell cycle, with a decrease of cells in the S and G₂/M phases. Thus, the inhibition of cell growth in OCI-AML3 cells was due to antiproliferative and pro-apoptotic effects. Interestingly, the bioactivity of saponin XII exerted its effect at a concentration as low as 1 µg/mL.

L-GILZ binds and inhibits nuclear factor κB nuclear translocation in undifferentiated thyroid cancer cells

Proto-oncogene mutations and abnormal activation of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signalling are recurrently found in thyroid cancers. Some thyroid neoplasms respond to drugs that inhibit MAPK pathway activation. Previously, we showed that pharmacological inhibition of MAPK in thyroid cancer cells inhibits cell proliferation and upregulates L-GILZ (long glucocorticoid-induced leucine zipper), a protein with anti-oncogenic and antiproliferative activity, and that L-GILZ is partially responsible for the antiproliferative activity of MAPK inhibitors. Here, we demonstrate that pharmacological inhibition of MAPK in the anaplastic thyroid cancer cell line CAL-62 upregulated L-GILZ, which bound nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) and inhibited its nuclear translocation. These data demonstrate a unique L-GILZ-mediated molecular mechanism that, by trapping NF-κB in the cytoplasm, contributes to the inhibition of proliferation induced by drugs targeting the MAPK transduction cascade. Enhanced knowledge of the mechanism of action of MAPK pathway-inhibiting drugs may improve their clinical use.

Effect of p53 activation through targeting MDM2/MDM4 heterodimer on T regulatory and effector cells in the peripheral blood of Type 1 diabetes patients

Various immunotherapies for the treatment of type 1 diabetes are currently under investigation. Some of these aim to rescue the remaining beta cells from autoimmune attack caused by the disease. Among the strategies employed, p53 has been envisaged as a possible target for immunomodulation. We studied the possible effect of p53 activation on Treg subsets and Treg/Teff balance in type 1 diabetes patients' PBMC. Upon p53 activation, we observed an increase in CD8+ Treg and activated CD8+ Teff whilst CD8+ Teff cells significantly decreased in healthy PBMC when stimulated with anti-CD3/CD28. No effect was detected on percentages of CD4+ Treg, while a reduction was seen in CD4+ Teff cells and an increase in activated CD4+ Teff cells. In patients' PBMC, upon p53 activation followed by 6 days of anti-CD3/CD28 stimulation, CD8+ Treg and activated CD8+ Teff were increased while CD8+ Teff were decreased. No differences were detected in the CD4+ counterparts. CD8+ Teff PD1+, CD8+ Teff PD1low were increased upon p53 activation in type 1 diabetics compared to controls while CD8+ Teff PD1high were increased in both groups. The same increased percentages were detected for CD4+ counterparts. CD4+ Treg PD1high cells were decreased in diabetics upon p53 activation at day 6 of anti-CD3/CD28 stimulation. In conclusion, a Teff dysregulation is observed upon p53 activation suggesting that molecules promoting p53 cannot be used for therapy in type 1 diabetics.

Bcl-xL overexpression decreases GILZ levels and inhibits glucocorticoid-induced activation of caspase-8 and caspase-3 in mouse thymocytes

Glucocorticoids promote thymocyte apoptosis and modulate transcription of numerous regulators of thymic apoptosis. Among these, glucocorticoid-induced leucine zipper (GILZ) is strongly upregulated in the thymus. We have previously demonstrated that GILZ decreases Bcl-xL expression, activates caspase-8 and caspase-3, and augments apoptosis in mice thymocytes. To better understand the causal links between glucocorticoids, GILZ, Bcl-xL, caspase-8, and caspase-3, we analyzed the thymocytes of Bcl-xL-overexpressing transgenic mice with or without glucocorticoid stimulation in vitro. Overexpression of Bcl-xL inhibited the glucocorticoid-induced up-regulation of GILZ in murine thymocytes as well as the glucocorticoid-dependent activation of caspase-8 and caspase-3. By contrast, no appreciable change in caspase-9 activation was observed upon Bcl-xL overexpression. Thus, these experiments highlighted a novel thymocyte apoptotic pathway in which Bcl-xL overexpression inhibited the glucocorticoid-induced activation of caspase-8 and caspase-3, but not caspase-9, as well as the accumulation of GILZ protein. These findings, together with our previous results showing that caspase-8 protects GILZ from proteasomal degradation, suggest the presence of a glucocorticoid-induced apoptosis self-amplification loop in which GILZ decreases Bcl-xL expression with a subsequent activation of caspase-8 and caspase-3; caspase-8 activation then enhances the stability and accumulation of GILZ and ensures the unimpeded and irreversible progression of apoptosis. By contrast, inappropriate increases in Bcl-xL levels could have catastrophic effects on thymic apoptosis as it would shut down caspase-8/3 activation, diminish the expression of GILZ, and impair the fine control necessary for thymic generation of a healthy immune repertoire.

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Bcl-xL is the main anti-apoptotic molecule of the BCl-2 family expressed in the thymus.

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Bcl-xL and GILZ are linked in a loop to influence each other’s expression.

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Overexpression of Bcl-xL inhibits GC-induced expression of Gilz, activation of caspase-8 and blocks thymocyte apoptosis.

Pro-apoptoticeffect of diterpenoids from Fokienia hodginsii on acute myeloid leukemia cells

Previously, we isolated four known diterpenoids, trans-communic acid (1), 13-oxo-15,16-dinor-labda-8(17), 11E-diene-19-oic acid (2), 3β-hydroxytotarol (3), and totarolone (4) from Fokienia hodginsii leaves. Further study demonstrated the antiproliferative activity of all four compounds in acute myeloid leukemia (OCI-AML) cells due to impaired cell cycle progression. Interestingly, 3β-hydroxytotarol (3) had very powerful bioactivity at low concentrations (5 µg/mL).

Implicating the Role of GILZ in Glucocorticoid Modulation of T-Cell Activation

Glucocorticoid-induced leucine zipper (GILZ) is a protein with multiple biological roles that is upregulated by glucocorticoids (GCs) in both immune and non-immune cells. Importantly, GCs are immunosuppressive primarily due to their regulation of cell signaling pathways that are crucial for immune system activity. GILZ, which is transcriptionally induced by the glucocorticoid receptor (GR), mediates part of these immunosuppressive, and anti-inflammatory effects, thereby controlling immune cell proliferation, survival, and differentiation. The primary immune cells targeted by the immunosuppressive activity of GCs are T cells. Importantly, the effects of GCs on T cells are partially mediated by GILZ. In fact, GILZ regulates T-cell activation, and differentiation by binding and inhibiting factors essential for T-cell function. For example, GILZ associates with nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB), c-Fos, and c-Jun and inhibits NF-κB-, and AP-1-dependent transcription. GILZ also binds Raf and Ras, inhibits activation of Ras/Raf downstream targets, including mitogen-activated protein kinase 1 (MAPK1). In addition GILZ inhibits forkhead box O3 (FoxO3) without physical interaction. GILZ also promotes the activity of regulatory T cells (Tregs) by activating transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) signaling. Ultimately, these actions inhibit T-cell activation and modulate the differentiation of T helper (Th)-1, Th-2, Th-17 cells, thereby mediating the immunosuppressive effects of GCs on T cells. In this mini-review, we discuss how GILZ mediates GC activity on T cells, focusing mainly on the therapeutic potential of this protein as a more targeted anti-inflammatory/immunosuppressive GC therapy.

Artocarpus tonkinensis Protects Mice Against Collagen-Induced Arthritis and Decreases Th17 Cell Function

Artocarpus tonkinensis (Moraceae) is a tree that grows in north Vietnam whose leaf decoction is used as a traditional remedy by the Hmong ethnic group to treat arthritis and backache. Our study evaluated the decoction’s efficacy and mechanism of action in DBA/1J mice with collagen-induced arthritis (CIA). Mice treated with the decoction (At) either from the first collagen immunization or after CIA development experienced significantly less joint edema and inflammatory infiltration, whereas CIA-induced cartilage damage could only be prevented by early At treatment. Autoimmune gene expression profiles showed that Th17 cell-associated chemokine CCL20 and cytokines IL-6, IL-17, and IL-22 were strongly downregulated by At. Reduced expression of IL-2, IL-17, IL-22, and FasL in lymph node cells from At-treated mice was further confirmed by real-time PCR. The decoction also inhibited polarization of Th17 cells from CD4⁺ splenic T cells according to levels of IL-17 and RORC, a Th17 cell-specific transcription factor. Chromatographic analysis identified At’s major component as maesopsin-β-D-glucoside, which could inhibit in vitro differentiation of Th17 cells. The decoction significantly alleviated the signs and symptoms of CIA and inhibited the development and function of Th17 cells, highlighting its potent anti-inflammatory activity.

Herbal Dietary Supplements for Erectile Dysfunction: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

PURPOSE

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common condition that significantly affects quality of life and interpersonal relationships.

OBJECTIVE

Our objective was to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the efficacy of herbal dietary supplements in the treatment of ED.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We searched five databases to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that evaluated the clinical efficacy of herbal medicines in ED. Quality was assessed and risk of bias was estimated using the Jadad score and the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool.

RESULTS

In total, 24 RCTs, including 2080 patients with ED, were identified. Among these, 12 evaluated monopreparations (five ginseng [n = 399], three saffron [n = 397], two Tribulus terrestris [n = 202], and one each Pinus pinaster [n = 21] and Lepidium meyenii [n = 50]), seven evaluated formulations (n = 544), and five investigated dietary supplements in combination with pure compounds (n = 410). Ginseng significantly improved erectile function (International Index of Erectile Function [IIEF]-5 score: 140 ginseng, 96 placebo; standardized mean difference [SMD] 0.43; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.15-0.70; P < 0.01; I² = 0), P. pinaster and L. meyenii showed very preliminary positive results, and saffron and T. terrestris treatment produced mixed results. Several herbal formulations were associated with a decrease of IIEF-5 or IIEF-15, although the results were preliminary. The quality of the included studies varied, with only seven having a prevalent low risk of bias. The median methodological quality Jadad score was three out of a maximum of five. Adverse events were recorded in 19 of 24 trials, with no significant differences between placebo and verum in placebo-controlled studies.

CONCLUSIONS

Encouraging evidence suggests that ginseng may be an effective herbal treatment for ED. However, further, larger, and high-quality studies are required before firm conclusions can be drawn. Promising (although very preliminary) results have also been generated for some herbal formulations. Overall, more research in the field, adhering to the CONSORT statement extension for reporting trials, is justified before the use of herbal products in ED can be recommended.

A new oleanane triterpene from the leaves of Ficus hirta

Repeated column chromatography of the n-hexane extract of Ficus hirta leaves (Moraceae) led to isolation of a new oleanane triterpene, 3β-hydroxy-11-oxo-olean-12-enyl-3-stearate (1) in addition to three known compounds, taraxerol (2), 3β-acetoxy-11α-methoxy-12-ursene (3) and 3β-acetoxy-11α-hydroxy-12-ursene (4). Their structures were elucidated by spectroscopic methods and by comparison with data reported in the literatures.

Anti-proliferative diterpenes from Dacrycarpus imbricatus

A new diterpene, cassipouryl hexadecanoate (2), in addition to the cassipourol (1) and four terpenes (3-6) were isolated from the twigs and leaves of Dacrycarpus imbricatus (Blume) de Laub. The structures of the two monocyclic diterpenes (1, 2), were elucidated on the basic of 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopic data and compared with the literature. These two monocyclic diterpenes (1, 2) were tested for their anti-proliferative activity on acute myeloid leukemia (OCI-AML) cells. The results showed that 1 had significantly anti-proliferative activity whereas 2 was weakly active.

A dual role for glucocorticoid-induced leucine zipper in glucocorticoid function: tumor growth promotion or suppression?

Glucocorticoids (GCs), important therapeutic tools to treat inflammatory and immunosuppressive diseases, can also be used as part of cancer therapy. In oncology, GCs are used as anticancer drugs for lymphohematopoietic malignancies, while in solid neoplasms primarily to control the side effects of chemo/radiotherapy treatments. The molecular mechanisms underlying the effects of GCs are numerous and often overlapping, but not all have been elucidated. In normal, cancerous, and inflammatory tissues, the response to GCs differs based on the tissue type. The effects of GCs are dependent on several factors: the tumor type, the GC therapy being used, the expression level of the glucocorticoid receptor (GR), and the presence of any other stimuli such as signals from immune cells and the tumor microenvironment. Therefore, GCs may either promote or suppress tumor growth via different molecular mechanisms. Stress exposure results in dysregulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis with increased levels of endogenous GCs that promote tumorigenesis, confirming the importance of GCs in tumor growth. Most of the effects of GCs are genomic and mediated by the modulation of GR gene transcription. Moreover, among the GR-induced genes, glucocorticoid-induced leucine zipper (GILZ), which was cloned and characterized primarily in our laboratory, mediates many GC anti-inflammatory effects. In this review, we analyzed the possible role for GILZ in the effects GCs have on tumors cells. We also suggest that GILZ, by affecting the immune system, tumor microenvironment, and directly cancer cell biology, has a tumor-promoting function. However, it may also induce apoptosis or decrease the proliferation of cancer cells, thus inhibiting tumor growth. The potential therapeutic implications of GILZ activity on tumor cells are discussed here.

Chemical constituents of Oldenlandia pinifolia and their antiproliferative activities

This study describes the chemical constituents of Oldenlandia pinifolia (Wall. Ex G. Don) Kuntze (synonym Hedyotis pinifolia Wall. Ex G. Don) and discusses their anti-proliferative activities. Thirteen compounds were isolated from the n-hexane, ethyl acetate and n-butanol extracts of whole plants O. pinifolia by chromatography method. Their structures were elucidated using MS and NMR analysis and compared with reported data. They are three anthraquinones, a carotenoid, two triterpenes, four iridoid glycosides and three flavonoid glycosides. Among them, 2-methyl-1,4,6-trihydroxy-anthraquinone is a new one, and three compounds were found for the first time in this genus. MTT assay resulted that the n-butanol extract and four isolated compounds inhibited the proliferation of chronic myelogenous leukaemia cells. The results from Hoechst 33343 staining and caspase 3-inducing exhibited that those four tested compounds induced apoptosis and activated caspase 3 (p < 0.05). One of them, isorhamnetin-3-O-β-rutinoside showed the most activity with IC₅₀ value of 394.68 ± 25.12 μM.

The Hexane Fraction of Bursera microphylla A. Gray Induces p21-Mediated Anti-Proliferative and Pro-Apoptotic Effects in Human Cancer-Derived Cell Lines

Bursera microphylla (BM), one of the common elephant trees, is widely distributed in the Sonoran Desert in Mexico. The Seri ethnic group in the Sonoran Desert uses BM as an anti-inflammatory and painkiller drug for the treatment of sore throat, herpes labialis, abscessed tooth, and wound healing. Dried stems and leaves of BM are used in a tea to relieve painful urination and to stimulate bronchial secretion. Furthermore, BM is used for fighting venereal diseases. To investigate the effects of the hexane fraction of resin methanol extract (BM-H) on cell growth, the acute myeloid cell line (OCI-AML3) was treated with 250, 25, or 2.5 µg/mL of BM-H. The first 2 concentrations were able to significantly decrease OCI-AML3 cell number. This reduced cell number was associated with decreased S-phase, blockade of the G₂/M phase of the cell cycle, and increased cell death. Similar results were obtained on all tested tumor cell lines of different origins. We found that blockade of the cell cycle was due to upregulation of p21 protein in a p53-independent way. Increase of p21 was possibly due to upstream upregulation of p-ERK (which stabilizes p21 protein) and downregulation of p-38 (which promotes its degradation). Regarding cell death, activation of caspase-3, but not of caspase-8 or -9, was detectable after BM-H treatment. In conclusion, these data suggest that the BM’s hexane fraction inhibited proliferation of cell lines mainly by a p21-dependent, p53-independent mechanism and promoted apoptosis through activation of caspase-3, but not caspase-8 or -9.

20-Hydroxyecdysone from Dacrycarpus imbricatus bark inhibits the proliferation of acute myeloid leukemia cells

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the anti-proliferative effects of 20-hydroxyecdysone isolated from the bark of Dacrycarpus imbricatus (Blume) de Laub.

METHODS

Column chromatography was used for isolation of compounds from plant material. The structure of the isolated compound was identified by mass spectrometry and nuclear magnetic resonance techniques, including HSQC, HMBC, NOE-difference experiments. The isolated compound was tested for its anti-proliferative activity in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and OCI-AML cells.

RESULTS

Compound 1 was isolated from the ethyl acetate fraction of Dacrycarpus imbricatus barks by column chromatography. Its chemical structure was identified as 20-hydroxyecdysone (20HE), a cholestane-type ecdysteroid, by a combination of mass spectrometry and nuclear magnetic resonance spectrometric analyses. Our goal was to test the anti-proliferative activity of 20HE using the OCI-AML cell line. 20HE significantly decreased OCI cell number at a concentration of 1 mg/mL, whereas lower concentrations were ineffective. Moreover, this decrease was due to partial blockage of the G₁/S phase of the cell cycle, with a reduction of cells in the G₂M phase, not due to increased apoptosis.

CONCLUSIONS

This indicates that 20HE significantly decreases the number of cells in the G₁/S phase of the cell cycle in human AML cells. This is the first time that the anti-proliferative activity of 20HE against a human tumor cell line has been reported.

The Hexane Fraction of Bursera microphylla A Gray Induces p21-Mediated Antiproliferative and Proapoptotic Effects in Human Cancer-Derived Cell Lines

Bursera microphylla (BM), one of the common elephant trees, is widely distributed in the Sonoran desert in Mexico. The Seri ethnic group in the Sonoran desert uses BM as an anti-inflammatory and painkiller drug for the treatment of sore throat, herpes labialis, abscessed tooth, and wound healing. Dried stems and leaves of BM are used in a tea to relieve painful urination and to stimulate bronchial secretion. Furthermore, BM is used for fighting venereal diseases. To investigate the effects of the hexane fraction of resin methanol extract (BM-H) on cell growth, the acute myeloid cell line (OCI-AML3) was treated with 250, 25, or 2.5 µg/mL of BM-H. The first 2 concentrations were able to significantly decrease OCI-AML3 cell number. This reduced cell number was associated with decreased S-phase, blockade of G₂/M phase of the cell cycle, and increased cell death. Similar results were obtained on all tested tumor cell lines of different origins. We found that blockade of the cell cycle was a result of upregulation of p21 protein in a p53-independent way. Increase of p21 was possibly a result of upstream upregulation of p-ERK (which stabilizes p21 protein) and downregulation of p-38 (which promotes its degradation). Regarding cell death, activation of caspase-3, but not of caspase-8 or -9, was detectable after BM-H treatment. In conclusion, these data suggest that BM-H inhibited proliferation of cell lines mainly by a p21-dependent, p53-independent mechanism and promoted apoptosis through activation of caspase-3 but not caspase-8 or -9.

Integration of Traditional and Western Medicine in Vietnamese Populations: A Review of Health Perceptions and Therapies

In Vietnam, two types of traditional medicine (TM) are practiced: thuoc nam, medicine of the South, and thuoc bac, medicine of the North, both of which are largely based on herbal drugs used by different Vietnamese ethnic groups. This review presents recently published information from various databases regarding TM, especially herbal drugs, and its integration with Western medical practices outside and inside Vietnam. We first discuss the integration of traditional and modern health concepts by Vietnamese immigrants living outside Vietnam. Next, we describe native and emigrated health education and practices of pharmacy students, health professionals, and citizens living in Vietnam. Finally, we report the recent biological validation of medicinal plants and non-herbal therapies emerging from Vietnamese TM and their current and potential medical uses as identified by Western approaches. The main example described here involves utilization of the tree Artocarpus tonkinensis by the ethnic minority of Black Hmong in northern Vietnam, who use a decoction of its leaves to treat arthritis and backache without apparent adverse effects. Our comprehensive review emphasizes that, although Vietnam has a very rich collection of TM practices (particularly the use of herbal drugs), these therapies should be biologically and clinically validated with modern Western methods for optimal integration of Western and traditional medicine in global populations.

Integration of Traditional and Western Medicine in Vietnamese Populations: A Review of Health Perceptions and Therapies

In Vietnam, two types of traditional medicine (TM) are practiced: thuoc nam, medicine of the South, and thuoc bac, medicine of the North, both of which are largely based on herbal drugs used by different Vietnamese ethnic groups. This review presents recently published information from various databases regarding TM, especially herbal drugs, and its integration with Western medical practices outside and inside Vietnam. We first discuss the integration of traditional and modem health concepts by Vietnamese immigrants living outside Vietnam. Next, we describe native and emigrated health education and practices of pharmacy students, health professionals, and citizens living in Vietnam. Finally, we report the recent biological validation of medicinal plants and non-herbal therapies emerging from Vietnamese TM and their current and potential medical uses as identified by Western approaches. The main example described here involves utilization of the tree Artocarpus tonkinensis by the ethnic minority of Black Hmong in northern Vietnam, who use a decoction of its leaves to treat arthritis and backache without apparent adverse effects. Our comprehensive review emphasizes that, although Vietnam has a very rich collection of TM practices (particularly the use of herbal drugs), these therapies should be biologically and clinically validated with modem Western methods for optimal integration of Western and traditional medicine in global populations.

In vivo anticancer activity of maesopsin 4-O-β-glucoside isolated from leaves of Artocarpus tonkinensis A. Chev. Ex Gagnep

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the antitumor effect of maesopsin 4-O-β-glucoside (TAT2) isolated from the leaves of Artocarpus tonkinensis (A. tonkinensis) A. Chev. ex Gagnep.

METHODS

The antitumor activity of TAT2 was evaluated in Lewis lung carcinoma (LLC) tumor-bearing mice. BALB/c mice had tumors induced by implantation with 2 × 10(6) LLC cells into the subcutaneous right posterior flank. Tumor-bearing mice were treated orally with a range of doses of TAT2 and a standard drug, doxorubicin. Animals were observed for tumor growth and mortality rate. Blood was collected to determine hematological and biochemical parameters.

RESULTS

TAT2 was isolated from an ethanolic extract of A. tonkinensis leaves. Its structure was determined by MS and NMR spectroscopy, and identified as TAT2. The compound did not show acute toxicity at the highest dose tested (2000 mg/kg body weight). TAT2 exhibited antitumor activity by decreasing tumor growth, increasing the survival rate, and ameliorating some hematological and biochemical parameters at doses of 100 and 200 mg/kg body weight (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

These results indicate that TAT2 possesses clear antitumor activity. Due to its bioavailability and low toxicity, and the fact that it could be isolated in a large scale from A. tonkinensis leaves, the compound shows promise as a potential anticancer drug.

Mechanisms of the anti-inflammatory effects of glucocorticoids: genomic and nongenomic interference with MAPK signaling pathways

Glucocorticoids (GCs) are steroid hormones produced by the adrenal gland and regulated by the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis. GCs mediate effects that mostly result in transcriptional regulation of glucocorticoid receptor target genes. Mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) comprise a family of signaling proteins that convert extracellular stimuli into the activation of intracellular transduction pathways via phosphorylation of a cascade of substrates. They modulate a variety of physiological cell processes, such as proliferation, apoptosis, and development. However, when MAPKs are improperly activated by proinflammatory and/or extracellular stress stimuli, they contribute to the regulation of proinflammatory transcription factors, thus perpetuating activation of the inflammatory cascade. One of the mechanisms by which GCs exert their anti-inflammatory effects is negative interference with MAPK signaling pathways. Several functional interactions between GCs and MAPK signaling have been discovered and studied. Some of these interactions involve the GC-mediated up-regulation of proteins that in turn interfere with the activation of MAPK, such as glucocorticoid-induced-leucine zipper, MAPK phosphatase-1, and annexin-1. Other mechanisms include activated GR directly interacting with components of the MAPK pathway and negatively regulating their activation. The multiple interactions between GCs and MAPK pathways and their potential biological relevance in mediating the anti-inflammatory effects of GCs are reviewed.

Manipulating thymic apoptosis for future therapy of autoimmune diseases

In humans, T-cell development takes place in the thymus, which contains an external cortical region and an inner medulla. The skeleton of the thymus consists of stromal cells and is filled with thymocytes in different stages of differentiation. Thymocytes undergo to a development process before becoming mature T lymphocytes ready for export to the peripheral lymphoid organs. Classically, T-cell development has been reported to occur in four steps. First, bone marrow derived thymocytes that express neither CD4 nor CD8 surface antigens (double negative [DN] thymocytes) undergo an extensive phase of proliferation and differentiation and begin to express CD4 and CD8 (step 2: double positive [DP] thymocytes). During a subsequent negative selection process, approximately 5% of these DP cells undergo apoptosis. If these cells are not eliminated, they could differentiate into autoreactive lymphocytes, leading to the development of peripheral autoimmune diseases. In the thymus, a particular population of T regulatory (Treg) cells also develops. These Treg cells migrate to the periphery and are capable of suppressing autoreactive lymphocytes that may have escaped from the negative selection process. Autoimmune diseases are generally the result of insufficient negative selection of autoreactive cells in the thymus or a deficiency in Treg cell production or function. Future therapeutic strategies for autoimmune diseases should exploit manipulations in the negative selection process and/or the differentiation of Treg cells in the thymus.

Maesopsin 4-O-beta-D-glucoside, a natural compound isolated from the leaves of Artocarpus tonkinensis, inhibits proliferation and up-regulates HMOX1, SRXN1 and BCAS3 in acute myeloid leukemia

The leaves of Artocarpus tonkinensis are used in Vietnamese traditional medicine for treatment of arthritis, and the compound maesopsin 4-O-β-D-glucoside (TAT-2), isolated from them, inhibits the proliferation of activated T cells. Our goal was to test the anti-proliferative activity of TAT-2 on the T-cell leukemia, Jurkat, and on the acute myeloid leukemia, OCI-AML. TAT-2 inhibited the growth of OCI-AML (and additional acute myeloid leukemia cells) but not Jurkat cells. Growth inhibition was shown to be due to inhibition of proliferation rather than increase in cell death. Analysis of cytokine release showed that TAT-2 stimulated the release of TGF-β, yet TGF-β neutralization did not reverse the maesopsin-dependent effect. Gene expression profiling determined that maesopsin modulated 19 identifiable genes. Transcription factor CP2 was the gene most significantly modulated. Real-time PCR validated that up-regulation of sulphiredoxin 1 homolog (SRXN1), hemeoxygenase 1 (HMOX1), and breast carcinoma amplified sequence 3 (BCAS3) were consistently modulated.

IL-2-driven natural killer cell generation: role of anti-H-2b monoclonal antibodies and stromal cells in controlling quantitative and repertoire changes

To investigate the role of major histocompatibility complex class I and bone marrow stromal cells on in vitro differentiation of natural killer cells, a CD44(low/-) CD2- population was isolated from mouse bone marrow. This NK-1.1- CD3- LFA-3+ B220+ population, when stimulated with IL-2 and co-cultured with supportive syngeneic stromal cells, generated populations of NK-1.1+ Ly49A+ Ly49C/I+ CD3- mature natural killer cells. The effect of anti-H-2b monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) on this phenomenon was assayed. Pre-adhesion of anti-H-2b mAbs to the stromal cells did not exert any effect, whereas when the same mAbs were pre-adhered to progenitors, there was a inhibition of natural killer cell generation that was maximum when the mAbs were added directly to cultures. In addition, the anti-H-2b mAbs did not inhibit the IL-2-induced proliferation of mature natural killer cells. Allogeneic but not H-2b-deficient stromal cells decreased the expression of Ly-49C/I but not Ly49A, thus suggesting that stromal cell haplotypes qualitatively influence the expression of Ly49s repertoire.

Differentiation of Ly49s-positive or -negative natural killer cells is inhibited by anti-H-2b monoclonal antibodies acting at the level of bone marrow progenitors from B6 mice

To investigate the role of MHC class I on in vitro differentiation of natural killer (NK) cells, a CD44low/-CD2-classlow population was isolated from mouse bone marrow. This population, which lacked expression of NK-1.1, Ly49A, Ly49C/I, and Ly49G, generated populations of NK-1.1+ NK cells expressing Ly49A, Ly49C/I, or Ly49G when cocultured for 13 days with syngeneic supportive stromal cells in the presence of interleukin 2. Ly49A and Ly49C/I were absent on the progeny of progenitors tested after 7 days of culture but were expressed as a late event together with low-level expression of NK-1.1, from day 8 of culture. The addition of anti-H-2b monoclonal antibody to cultures at day 0 inhibited proliferation of progenitors supported by either syngeneic, allogeneic, or H-2b-deficient stromal cells, thus suggesting that the effect was not exerted on stromal cells. Additional analyses demonstrated that class Ilow progenitors generated class I+ cells on which the anti-H-2b monoclonal antibody exerted its inhibitory effect.

Effect of interleukin-2 on generation of natural killer cells: role of major histocompatibility complex class I in B6 and TAP-1-/- mice

Long-term bone marrow cultures were used to investigate the effect of IL-2, a cytokine widely used in immunotherapy, on natural killer cell differentiation. Specifically, the role of MHC was evaluated by comparing normal B6 and class I-deficient TAP-1-/- mice. The number of cells generated after a 13-day culture was the same in cell cultures from TAP-1-/- or B6 mice but the relative number of natural killer cells, identified as NK-1.1+CD3- cells by flow cytometry analysis, was increased in TAP-1-/- compared to B6 cultures (74.4% and 63.9%, respectively). Addition of an anti-class I mAb determined a strong inhibition of natural killer cell generation in B6 cultures, and its effect was specific since no effect was seen in TAP-1-/- cell cultures. TAP-1-/- natural killer cells or the few natural killer cells escaping the inhibitory effect of anti-class I mAb, were less cytotoxic than total B6 natural killer cells against target cell lines of different haplotype.

Cloning and expression of a short Fas ligand: A new alternatively spliced product of the mouse Fas ligand gene

The Fas/FasL system mediates apoptosis in several different cell types, including T lymphocytes. Fas ligand (FasL), a 40-kD type II membrane protein also expressed in activated T cells, belongs to the tumor necrosis factor ligand family. We describe a new alternative splicing of mouse FasL, named FasL short (FasLs), cloned by reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction. FasLs is encoded by part of exon 1 and part of exon 4 of FasL gene. The protein encoded by FasLs mRNA has a putative initiation code at position 756 and preserves the same reading frame as FasL, resulting in a short molecule lacking the intracellular, the transmembrane, and part of the extracellular domains. RNase protection and immunoprecipitation analysis showed that FasLs is expressed in nonactivated normal spleen cells and in hybridoma T cells and that it is upregulated upon activation by anti-CD3 monoclonal antibody (MoAb). Moreover, FasLs-transfected cells expressed soluble FasLs in the supernatant and became resistant to apoptosis induced by agonist anti-Fas MoAb. Thus, FasLs, a new alternative splicing of FasL, is involved in the regulation of Fas/FasL-mediated cell death.

Functional expression of Fas on mouse bone marrow stromal cells: upregulation by tumor necrosis factor-alpha and interferon-gamma

In this study we describe the expression and function of Fas in mouse bone marrow (BM) stromal cells (SCs) and cell lines derived from long-term BM cultures. Flow cytometry analysis showed that Fas was expressed on adherent cells from freshly isolated BM and on all cloned SC lines tested. The SC line ME-25 was Fas+ but negative for FasL as detected by reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction. Furthermore, ME-25 was CD44+, VCAM-1+, Mac-3-, Gr-1-, and type IV collagen-. ME-25 treatment with interferon-gamma or tumor necrosis factor-alpha significantly induced upregulation of Fas expression as detected by both flow cytometry and Western blot immunoassay. The same treatment with interleukin (IL)-1, IL-2, or IL-13 had no effect. Functional studies demonstrated that Fas induced a strong increase in apoptosis when engaged with an anti-Fas monoclonal antibody (MoAb). Activated BM T cells induced Fas-dependent cytotoxicity of ME-25 insofar as blocking anti-FasL MoAb inhibited the killing of ME-25 induced by activated BM T cells. These data suggest a possible involvement of Fas-expressing SCs in negative regulatory functions in the BM and provide a starting point for further studies on the role of Fas+ SCs.

Interleukin-6 (IL-6) prevents activation-induced cell death: IL-2-independent inhibition of Fas/fasL expression and cell death

Triggering of the TCR/CD3 complex with specific antigen or anti-CD3 monoclonal antibody initiates activation-induced cell death (AICD) in mature T cells, an effect also mediated by the Fas/FasL system. We have previously shown that CD2 stimulation rescues T cells from TCR/CD3-induced apoptosis by decreasing the expression of Fas and FasL. In the present study, we examined whether the endogenous production of IL-2 plays a role in the effects mediated by CD2 triggering. The results indicated that transcription of Fas/FasL is controlled by interleukin-2 (IL-2) production and that CD2 triggering rescues a T-cell hybridoma from AICD via decreased production of IL-2. To ascertain whether modulation of IL-2 may be a general mechanism of AICD control, we examined other stimuli, capable of modulating the expression of the Fas/FasL system and the ensuing AICD, for ability to affect production of IL-2. We found that IL-6 reduced the level of TCR/CD3-induced apoptosis and the expression of Fas/FasL, yet failed to inhibit IL-2 production. Because IL-2 is involved in both apoptosis and activation events, these results indicate that, in contrast to CD2, which inhibits apoptosis and T cell activation, IL-6 inhibits apoptosis but not IL-2-induced activation. These observations may provide the basis for differential control of T-cell activation and apoptosis.