Targeting Heme Oxygenase 2 (HO2) with TiNIR, a Theragnostic Approach for Managing Metastatic Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer

Despite notable advancements in cancer therapeutics, metastasis remains a primary obstacle impeding a successful prognosis. Our prior study has identified heme oxygenase 2 (HO2) as a promising therapeutic biomarker for the aggressive subsets within tumor. This study aims to systematically evaluate HO2 as a therapeutic target of cancer, with a specific emphasis on its efficacy in addressing cancer metastasis. Through targeted inhibition of HO2 by TiNIR (tumor-initiating cell probe with near infrared), we observed a marked increase in reactive oxygen species. This, in turn, orchestrated the modulation of AKT and cJUN activation, culminating in a substantial attenuation of both proliferation and migration within a metastatic cancer cell model. Furthermore, in a mouse model, clear inhibition of cancer metastasis was unequivocally demonstrated with an HO2 inhibitor administration. These findings underscore the therapeutic promise of targeting HO2 as a strategic intervention to impede cancer metastasis, enhancing the effectiveness of cancer treatments.

Visualization of Metastatic Lung Cancer with TiNIR

The development of efficient biomarkers and probes for monitoring and treating cancer, specifically metastatic cancer, is a critical research area that can have a significant impact on both patient outcomes and drug discovery. In this context, TiNIR has been developed to detect tumor-initiating cells (TICs), with heme oxygenase 2 (HO2) as a promising therapeutic biomarker for tumor-initiating cells. In this study, TiNIR has demonstrated its effectiveness as an in vivo metastatic lung cancer tracker, highlighting its potential as a valuable tool in cancer research and therapy. The development of innovative approaches that selectively target metastatic cancers represents a promising avenue for improving survival rates and enhancing the quality of life of cancer patients.

Changes in Functionality of Tenebrio molitor Larvae Fermented by Cordyceps militaris Mycelia

The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has been estimating the potential of insects as human food since 2010, and for this reason, Tenebrio molitor larvae, also called mealworms, have been explored as an alternative protein source for various foods. In this study, in order to increase nutrient contents and improve preference as an alternative protein source, we fermented the T. molitor larvae by Cordyceps militaris mycelia. T. molitor larvae were prepared at optimal conditions for fermentation and fermented with C. militaris mycelia, and we analyzed T. molitor larvae change in functionality with proximate composition, β-glucan, cordycepin, adenosine, and free amino acids content. T. molitor larvae fermented by C. militaris mycelia showed higher total protein, total fiber, and β-glucan content than the unfermented larvae. In addition, the highest cordycepin content (13.75 mg/g) was observed in shaded dried T. molitor larvae fermented by C. militaris mycelia. Additionally, the isolated cordycepin from fermented T. molitor larvae showed similar cytotoxicity as standard cordycepin when treated with PC-9 cells. Therefore, we report that the optimized methods of T. molitor larvae fermented by C. militaris mycelia increase total protein, total fiber, β-glucan and produce the amount of cordycepin content, which can be contributed to healthy food and increase T. molitor larvae utilization.

Synthesis of 4-substituted benzyl-2-triazole-linked-tryptamine-paeonol derivatives and evaluation of their selective inhibitions against butyrylcholinesterase and monoamine oxidase-B

Cholinesterase (ChE) and monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors are being used and developed to treat Alzheimer's disease (AD), a major type of dementia patients. Fifteen 4-substituted benzyl-2-triazole-linked-tryptamine-paeonol derivatives were synthesized and evaluated for their inhibitory activities against acetylcholinesterase (AChE), butyrylcholinesterase (BChE), monoamine oxidase-A (MAO-A), and B (MAO-B). Compound 896 was the most potent BChE inhibitor (IC₅₀ = 0.13 μM) with the selectivity index (SI) value of >769.23 for BChE over AChE. Compound 897 was the most potent selective MAO-B inhibitor (IC₅₀ = 0.73 μM; SI = 20.45 for MAO-B over MAO-A). The meta-CF₃ substituent of 896 increased BChE inhibitory activity and the para-CF₃ substituent of 897 increased MAO-B inhibitory activity. Compound 896 was a reversible noncompetitive BChE inhibitor (K_i = 0.171 μM) and 897 was a reversible competitive MAO-B inhibitor (K_i = 0.237 μM). Compound 896 had a lower binding energy (-13.75 kcal/mol) to BChE than 897 (-11.29 kcal/mol), and 897 had a lower binding energy to MAO-B (-11.31 kcal/mol) than that to MAO-A (-6.72 kcal/mol). Little cytotoxicity was observed for 896 and 897 to normal cells (MDCK) and human neuroblastoma cells (SH-SY5Y). This study suggested that 896 and 897 are therapeutic candidates for various neurodegenerative disorders such as AD.

Correction: A preliminary study for the development of cleavable linkers using activatable fluorescent probes targeting leucine aminopeptidase

Correction for ‘A preliminary study for the development of cleavable linkers using activatable fluorescent probes targeting leucine aminopeptidase’ by Julie Kang et al., Analyst, 2022, https://doi.org/10.1039/d2an01145j.

A preliminary study for the development of cleavable linkers using activatable fluorescent probes targeting leucine aminopeptidase

The Kinetic and ex vivo stability studies of LAP-responsive fluorescent probes demonstrated that the stability and intrinsic drug releasing activity of the cleavalbe linker can be evaluated by a peptidase-responsive activatable fluorescent probe.

Metabolomic analysis of amino acids and organic acids in aging mouse eyes using gas chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry

This is a metabolomics study for monitoring of altered amino acid (AA) and organic acid (OA) metabolism of in the eyes from aging mouse model of 8-weeks, 18-weeks, and 18-months. Simultaneous metabolic profiling analysis of OAs and AAs was performed as ethoxycarbonyl/methoxime/tert-butyldimethylsilyl derivatives by gas chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. A total 42 metabolites of 24 AAs and 18 OAs were determined and their composition values were normalized to the corresponding mean values of 8-week-old mice as control group. Then their normalized values were plotted as star graphs, which were distorted and readily distinguishable for age-related each group. Among 42 metabolites, 18 AAs and 11 OAs were age dependent and significantly different (p < 0.05). Principal component analysis and partial least squares discriminant analysis showed unclear separation between 8- and 18-week-old mice but clear separation between these and 18-month-old mice. Especially, the variables importance in projection (VIP) scores of 4-hydroxyproline, cis-aconitic acid, glycine, isocitric acid, leucine, pipecolic acid and lysine from PLS-DA were higher than 1.3. A heatmap for the classification and visualization of 42 metabolites showed differences in metabolite changes with aging. Altered AA and OA profiles were monitored, which may explain for metabolic disturbance of AA and OA. These findings are related with mitochondrial dysfunctions related with energy metabolism and impaired antioxidant system in the aging eye. Therefore, the present metabolomics results of the association between physiological states and altered metabolism of AA and OA will be useful for understanding aging eye and related diseases.

Acetylcholinesterase and monoamine oxidase-B inhibitory activities by ellagic acid derivatives isolated from Castanopsis cuspidata var. sieboldii

Among 276 herbal extracts, a methanol extract of Castanopsis cuspidata var. sieboldii stems was selected as an experimental source for novel acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitors. Five compounds were isolated from the extract by activity-guided screening, and their inhibitory activities against butyrylcholinesterase (BChE), monoamine oxidases (MAOs), and β-site amyloid precursor protein cleaving enzyme 1 (BACE-1) were also evaluated. Of these compounds, 4'-O-(α-L-rhamnopyranosyl)-3,3',4-tri-O-methylellagic acid (3) and 3,3',4-tri-O-methylellagic acid (4) effectively inhibited AChE with IC₅₀ values of 10.1 and 10.7 µM, respectively. Ellagic acid (5) inhibited AChE (IC₅₀ = 41.7 µM) less than 3 and 4. In addition, 3 effectively inhibited MAO-B (IC₅₀ = 7.27 µM) followed by 5 (IC₅₀ = 9.21 µM). All five compounds weakly inhibited BChE and BACE-1. Compounds 3, 4, and 5 reversibly and competitively inhibited AChE, and were slightly or non-toxic to MDCK cells. The binding energies of 3 and 4 (- 8.5 and - 9.2 kcal/mol, respectively) for AChE were greater than that of 5 (- 8.3 kcal/mol), and 3 and 4 formed a hydrogen bond with Tyr124 in AChE. These results suggest 3 is a dual-targeting inhibitor of AChE and MAO-B, and that these compounds should be viewed as potential therapeutics for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease.

Induction of Apoptosis in MDA-MB-231 Cells Treated with the Methanol Extract of Lichen Physconia hokkaidensis

Physconia hokkaidensis methanol extract (PHE) was studied to identify anticancer effects and reveal its mechanism of action by an analysis of cytotoxicity, cell cycles, and apoptosis biomarkers. PHE showed strong cytotoxicity in various cancer cells, including HL-60, HeLa, A549, Hep G2, AGS, MDA-MB-231, and MCF-7. Of these cell lines, the growth of MDA-MB-231 was concentration-dependently suppressed by PHE, but MCF-7 was not affected. MDA-MB-231 cells, triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) cells, do not express estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR), and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER-2), whereas MCF-7 cells are ER-positive, PR-positive, and HER-2-negative breast cancer cells. The number of cells in sub-G1 phase was increased after 24 h of treatment, and annexin V/PI staining showed that the population size of apoptotic cells was increased by prolonged exposure to PHE. Moreover, PHE treatment downregulated the transcriptional levels of Bcl-2, AMPK, and p-Akt, whereas it significantly upregulated the levels of cleaved caspase-3, cleaved caspase-9, and cleaved-PARP. In conclusion, it was confirmed that the PHE exhibited selective cytotoxicity toward MDA-MB-231, not toward MCF-7, and its cytotoxic activity is based on induction of apoptosis.

Selective Inhibition of Human Monoamine Oxidase B by 5-hydroxy-2-methyl-chroman-4-one Isolated from an Endogenous Lichen Fungus Daldinia fissa

Inhibitory activities against monoamine oxidases (MAOs) and cholinesterases (ChEs) and antioxidant activity were evaluated for 195 extracts from Ukraine-derived endogenous lichen fungi (ELF). Among them, an ELF13 (identified as Daldinia fissa) extract showed the highest inhibitory activity against MAO-B, and 5-hydroxy-2-methyl-chroman-4-one (HMC) was isolated as a ~ 4-fold selective inhibitor of MAO-B (IC₅₀ = 3.23 µM) compared to MAO-A (IC₅₀ = 13.97 µM). HMC is a reversible competitive inhibitor with a K_i value of 0.896 µM. No cytotoxicity was observed in normal and cancer cells at 50 µM of HMC. HMC showed blood–brain barrier permeability and high gastrointestinal absorption in silico pharmacokinetics. The docking simulation results showed that the binding affinity of HMC for MAO-B (−7.3 kcal/mol) was higher than that of MAO-A (−6.1 kcal/mol) and that HMC formed a hydrogen bond interaction with Cys172 of MAO-B (distance: 3.656 Å), whereas no hydrogen bonding was predicted with MAO-A. These results suggest that HMC can be considered a candidate for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease.

Enhanced anti-tumor immunotherapy by silica-coated magnetic nanoparticles conjugated with ovalbumin

Background

The effective induction of an antigen-specific T cell immune response through dendritic cell activation is one of the key goals of tumor immunotherapy.

Methods

In this study, efficient antigen-delivery carriers using silica-coated magnetic nanoparticles were designed and, their antigen-specific T cell immune response through dendritic cell activation investigated.

Results

The results showed that the silica-coated magnetic nanoparticles with conjugated ovalbumin enhanced the production of cytokines and antigen uptake in bone marrow-derived dendritic cells. Also, this induced an antigen-specific cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) immune response and activated antigen-specific Th1 cell responses, including IL-2 and IFN-γ production and proliferation. We proved that the immune-stimulatory effects of silica-coated magnetic nanoparticles with conjugated ovalbumin were efficient in inhibiting of tumor growth in EG7-OVA (mouse lymphoma-expressing ovalbumin tumor-bearing mice model).

Conclusion

Therefore, the silica-coated magnetic nanoparticles with conjugated ovalbumin are expected to be useful as efficient anti-cancer immunotherapy agents.

Role of Th2 cytokines on the onset of asthma induced by meta-xylene in mice

meta-Xylene (m-xylene) is one of three isomers of xylene, which is widely used as a solvent and detergent in various industries and medical technology. Exposure to volatile organic compounds, such as m-xylene, causes pulmonary inflammation and airway inflammation, thereby contributing to the onset of asthma. Exposure to m-xylene increases acute wheezing and intensity of asthma symptom. However, the mechanism of the onset of asthma by m-xylene has not been studied yet. C57BL/6 mice were sensitized and challenged by m-xylene at 100 or 300 mg/kg. The mice were then sacrificed after the last challenge. Exposure to m-xylene increased the total number of inflammatory cells and the production of interleukin (IL)-4, IL-5, IL-13, and immunoglobulin E related to the Th2 immune response. In contrast, the production of interferon-γ related to the Th1 immune response was decreased. In addition, the airway resistance increased according to the airway hyper-responsiveness measurements. Finally, a histological analysis revealed infiltration of inflammatory cells, mucus production, and lung fibrosis. These results suggest that m-xylene is a potential risk factor for asthma and the onset of asthma is caused by TH2 cytokines.

Heshouwu (Polygonum multiflorum Thunb.) Extract Attenuates Bone Loss in Diabetic Mice

This study investigated the effects and mechanism of Heshouwu (Polygonum multiflorum Thunb.) water extract (HSW) on diabetes-related bone loss in mice. HSW was orally administered (300 mg/kg body weight) to high-fat diet and streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice for 10 weeks. HSW significantly alleviated mouse body weight loss and hyperglycemia compared with the control group, and elevated serum levels of insulin, osteocalcin, and bone-alkaline phosphatase. HSW supplementation also significantly increased the bone volume/tissue volume ratio and trabecular thickness and number, and decreased the bone surface/bone volume ratio and trabecular structure model index in the femur and tibia. Moreover, HSW significantly increased femoral bone mineral density. In addition, HSW down-regulated osteoclastogenic genes, such as nuclear factor of activated T-cells, cytoplasmic 1 and tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase 5 (TRAP), in both the femur and tibia tissue, and reduced serum TRAP level compare to those of control mice. These results indicate that HSW might relieve diabetes-related bone disorders through regulating osteoclast-related genes, suggesting HSW may be used as a preventive agent for diabetes-induced bone loss.

Inhibitions of HMGB1 and TLR4 alleviate DINP-induced asthma in mice

We studied the effects of high mobility group box chromosomal protein 1 (HMGB1) and toll-like receptor (TLR4) in diisonoyl phthalate (DINP)-induced asthma. Mice with DINP-induced asthma were treated with a TLR4-signaling inhibitor or anti-HMGB1 antibody, and various markers of asthma were measured 24 h later. DINP increased airway hyperresponsiveness, numbers of cells in BALF, numbers of inflammatory cells (leukocytes, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, neutrophils, basophils) in blood, mucus production, pulmonary fibrosis, Th2 type cytokine levels in BALF, and lung cell apoptosis. On the other hand, administrations of TLR4-signaling inhibitors (TAK-242) or anti-HMGB1 antibodies to a mouse model of DINP-induced asthma reduced biological markers of asthma. These results show TLR4 and HMGB1 both contribute to DINP-induced asthma, and that the inhibitions of TLR4 or HMGB1 offer potential means of treating asthma induced by phthalates like DINP.

Metabolomic approaches to polyamines including acetylated derivatives in lung tissue of mice with asthma

INTRODUCTION

Recently, the relationship between polyamine (PA) metabolism and asthma has been studied in severe asthmatic therapy, but systematic PA metabolism including their acetylated derivatives was not fully understood.

OBJECTIVES

Profiling analysis of polyamines (PAs) was performed to understand the biochemical events and monitor altered PA metabolism in lung tissue of mice with asthma.

METHODS

Polyamine profiling of lung tissue of mice with asthma was performed without derivatization by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) combined with star pattern recognition analysis. The PA levels between control and asthma groups were evaluated by multivariate analysis.

RESULTS

In mouse lung tissue, seven PAs were determined by LC-MS/MS in multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) mode. Their levels were normalized to the corresponding mean levels of the control group for star pattern analysis, which showed distorted heptagonal shapes with characteristic and readily distinguishable patterns for each group. Levels of putrescine (p < 0.0034), N¹-acetylputrescine (p < 0.0652), and N⁸-acetylspermidine (p < 0.0827) were significantly increased in asthmatic lung tissue. The separation of the two groups was evaluated using multivariate analysis. In unsupervised learning, acetylated PAs including N¹-acetylspermine were the main metabolites for discrimination. In supervised learning, putrescine and N¹-acetylputrescine were evaluated as important metabolites.

CONCLUSIONS

The present results provide basic data for understanding polyamine metabolism in asthma and may help to improve the therapy for severe asthma patients.

Heshouwu (Polygonum multiflorum Thunb.) ethanol extract suppresses pre-adipocytes differentiation in 3T3-L1 cells and adiposity in obese mice

This study investigated whether Heshouwu (Polygonum multiflorum Thunb.) root ethanol extract (PME) has anti-obesity activity using 3T3-L1 cells and high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obese mice. Treatment with PME (5 and 10 μg/mL) dose-dependently suppressed 3T3-L1 pre-adipocyte differentiation to adipocytes and cellular triglyceride contents. In addition, PME inhibited mRNA and protein expression of adipogenic transcription factors such as CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein α (C/EBPα) and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ), which led to down-regulation of fatty acid synthase gene expression. After feeding mice PME (0.05%) with HFD for 12 weeks, their visceral fat mass, size and body weight were significantly reduced compared with the HFD group. Furthermore, PME supplementation significantly up-regulated the PPARα, CPT1, CPT2, UCP1 and HSL mRNA levels compared with the HFD group, whereas it down-regulated expression of the PPARγ and DGAT2 genes. Finally, HFD increased serum leptin, insulin, glucose and insulin and glucose levels; however, PME reversed these changes. These results demonstrated that PME might relieve obesity that occurs via inhibition of adipogenesis and lipogenesis as well as through lipolysis and fatty acid oxidation in 3T3-L1 cells and HFD-induced obese mice.

A New Secondary Metabolite from Korean Traditional Herb Plant Hovenia dulcis

Investigation of chemical compounds from the butanol soluble layer of the traditional herb Hovenia dulcis has led to the isolation of a new compound, identified as 2-methoxybenzoic acid-5- O-α-L-rhamnopyranoside (1), along with three known compounds, syringic acid-4- O-α-L-rhamnopyranoside (2), syringic acid (3), and vanillic acid (4). Their chemical structures were established from the interpretation of 2D NMR spectroscopic and the high-resolution mass data.

Suppression Effect of Astaxanthin on Osteoclast Formation In Vitro and Bone Loss In Vivo

Osteoporosis is characterized by a reduction of the bone mineral density (BMD) and microarchitectural deterioration of the bone, which lead to bone fragility and susceptibility to fracture. Astaxanthin (AST) has a variety of biological activities, such as a protective effect against asthma or neuroinflammation, antioxidant effect, and decrease of the osteoclast number in the right mandibles in the periodontitis model. Although treatment with AST is known to have an effect on inflammation, no studies on the effect of AST exposure on bone loss have been performed. Thus, in the present study, we examined the antiosteoporotic effect of AST on bone mass in ovariectomized (OVX) mice and its possible mechanism of action. The administration of AST (5, 10 mg/kg) for 6 weeks suppressed the enhancement of serum calcium, inorganic phosphorus, alkaline phosphatase, total cholesterol, and tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) activity. The bone mineral density (BMD) and bone microarchitecture of the trabecular bone in the tibia and femur were recovered by AST exposure. Moreover, in the in vitro experiment, we demonstrated that AST inhibits osteoclast formation through the expression of the nuclear factor of activated T cells (NFAT) c1, dendritic cell-specific transmembrane protein (DC-STAMP), TRAP, and cathepsin K without any cytotoxic effects on bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMMs). Therefore, we suggest that AST may have therapeutic potential for the treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis.

Immunosuppressive Effects of Bryoria sp. (Lichen-Forming Fungus) Extracts via Inhibition of CD8+ T-Cell Proliferation and IL-2 Production in CD4+ T Cells

Lichen-forming fungi are known to have various biological activities, such as antioxidant, antimicrobial, antitumor, antiviral, anti-inflammation, and anti proliferative effects. However, the immunosuppressive effects of Bryoria sp. extract (BSE) have not previously been investigated. In this study, the inhibitory activity of BSE on the proliferation of CD8⁺ T cells and the mixed lymphocytes reaction (MLR) was evaluated in vitro. BSE was non-toxic in spleen cells and suppressed the growth of splenocytes induced by anti-CD3. The suppressed cell population in spleen cells consisted of CD8⁺ T cells and their proliferation was inhibited by the treatment with BSE. This extract significantly suppressed the IL-2 associated with T cell growth and IFN-γ as the CD8⁺ T cell marker. Furthermore, BSE reduced the expression of the IL-2 receptor alpha chain (IL-2Rα) on CD8⁺ T cells and CD86 on dendritic cells by acting as antigen-presenting cells. Finally, the MLR produced by the co-culture of C57BL/6 and MMC-treated BALB/c was suppressed by BSE. IL-2, IFN-γ, and CD69 on CD8⁺ T cells in MLR condition were inhibited by BSE. These results indicate that BSE inhibits the MLR via the suppression of IL-2Rα expression in CD8⁺ T cells. BSE has the potential to be developed as an anti-immunosuppression agent for organ transplants.

The Protective Effects of Astaxanthin on the OVA-Induced Asthma Mice Model

Although astaxanthin has a variety of biological activities such as anti-oxidant effects, inhibitory effects on skin deterioration and anti-inflammatory effects, its effect on asthma has not been studied. In this paper, the inhibitory effect of astaxanthin on airway inflammation in a mouse model of ovalbumin (OVA)-induced asthma was investigated. We evaluated the number of total cells, Th1/2 mediated inflammatory cytokines in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and airway hyperresponsiveness as well as histological structure. The level of total IgE, IgG1, IgG2a, OVA-specific IgG1, and OVA-specific IgG2a were also examined. The oral administration of 50 mg/mL astaxanthin inhibited the respiratory system resistance, elastance, newtonian resistance, tissue damping, and tissue elastance. Also, astaxanthin suppressed the total cell number, IL-4, and IL-5, and increased the IFN-γ in the BALF. In the sera, total IgE, IgG1, and OVA-specific IgG1 were reduced by astaxanthin exposure and IgG2a and OVA-specific IgG2a were enhanced via oral administration of astaxanthin. Infiltration of inflammatory cells in the lung, production of mucus, lung fibrosis, and expression of caspase-1 or caspase-3 were suppressed in OVA-induced asthmatic animal treated with astaxanthin. These results suggest that astaxanthin may have therapeutic potential for treating asthma via inhibiting Th2-mediated cytokine and enhancing Th1-mediated cytokine.

Proteomic and transcriptomic analysis of lung tissue in OVA-challenged mice

Asthma is a long term inflammatory disease of the airway of lungs characterized by variable airflow obstruction and bronchospasm. Asthma is caused by a complex combination of environmental and genetic interactions. In this study, we conducted proteomic analysis of samples derived from control and OVA challenged mice for environmental respiratory disease by using 2-D gel electrophoresis. In addition, we explored the genes associated with the environmental substances that cause respiratory disease and conducted RNA-seq by next-generation sequencing. Proteomic analysis revealed 7 up-regulated (keratin KB40, CRP, HSP27, chaperonin containing TCP-1, TCP-10, keratin, and albumin) and 3 down-regulated proteins (PLC-α, PLA2, and precursor ApoA-1). The expression diversity of many genes was found in the lung tissue of OVA challenged moue by RNA-seq. 146 genes were identified as significantly differentially expressed by OVA treatment, and 118 genes of the 146 differentially expressed genes were up-regulated and 28 genes were downregulated. These genes were related to inflammation, mucin production, and airway remodeling. The results presented herein enable diagnosis and the identification of quantitative markers to monitor the progression of environmental respiratory disease using proteomics and genomic approaches.

Effects of diisononyl phthalate on osteopenia in intact mice

Osteopenia is characterized by bone loss and deterioration of trabecular bone, which leads to osteoporotic fractures. This disease is highly prevalent in industrialized areas and is associated with exposure to endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs). Diisononyl phthalate (DINP) is one of these EDCs and is mainly used as a plasticizer in flexible polyvinyl chloride (PVC) products. Although it is well known that exposure to DINP is harmful to humans, no studies have been reported concerning its contribution to osteopenia. Therefore, in this study, we injected DINP (2, 20, and 200mg/kg) into C3H/HeN mice for 6weeks and found that the uterus weight, bone (femur and tibia) weight, and bone length of the DINP-exposed mice were reduced compared to those of the SHAM group. On the other hand, body weight, the serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and inorganic phosphorus (IP) levels in the DINP treated mice were increased compared with those of the SHAM group. The tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) activity (bone resorption marker) was increased and the bone alkaline phosphatase (BALP) activity was lowered by the treatment with DINP as compared with the SHAM group. Furthermore, the microarchitecture of the femur and tibia in the intact mice was destroyed by the DINP injection. The tissue volume (TV), bone volume (BV), BV/TV, bone surface (BS), BS/TV, trabecular thickness (Tb.Th), and trabecular number (Tb.N) were reduced and the trabecular pattern factor (Tb.Pf), structure model index (SMI), and trabecular separation (Tb.Sp) were increased by the DINP injection. The bone mineral density (BMD) of the femur and tibia was lower in the DINP group than in the SHAM group. These results indicate that DINP contributes to an increased risk of osteopenia via destruction of the microarchitecture and enhancement of osteoclast activity.

Anti-adipogenic and anti-diabetic effects of cis-3',4'-diisovalerylkhellactone isolated from Peucedanum japonicum Thunb leaves in vitro

Peucedanum japonicum Thunb is a medicinal plant belonging to the family Umbelliferae. This study evaluated the anti-diabetic and anti-obesity effects of cis-3',4'-diisovalerylkhellactone (cDIVK) isolated from Peucedanum japonicum Thunb leaves. cDIVK (30 and 50μM) effectively inhibited adipocyte differentiation and fat accumulation, whereas it stimulated glucose uptake compared with the control in 3T3-L1 cells. cDIVK significantly increased AMPK activation and suppressed protein and mRNA expression of major adipogenic transcriptional factors such as C/EBPα, PPARγ and SREBP-1c in 3T3-L1 cells. In addition, cDIVK had potential α-glucosidase inhibitory activity. These results indicated that cDIVK may act as a natural dual therapeutic agent for diabetes and obesity.

Production of novel vinegar having antioxidant and anti-fatigue activities from Salicornia herbacea L

BACKGROUND

Salicornia herbacea L. is a halophyte that grows in salt marshes and contains significant amounts of salts and minerals. Because it is known as a folk medication to treat diseases, various processed products such as powder, globular type of powder, laver and extract have been developed. However, it is difficult to process as a drink because of its high salinity. In the present study, glasswort vinegar (GV) containing high amounts of organic acids and minerals was developed via two-step fermentation with unpolished rice substrates and investigated its antioxidant and anti-fatigue activities.

RESULTS

GV showed various free radical scavenging effects, reducing power, oxidized-LDL inhibition and superoxide dismutase-like activities. Compared with the control group (orally administered 7 g kg(-1) distilled water), the GV supplementation group showed increased running endurance and had higher glycogen accumulation in liver and muscles of rats exhausted by exercise. Furthermore, the GV-administered group demonstrated significantly elevated lactate and ATP metabolism, promoting enzyme activities such as muscle creatine kinase and lactate dehydrogenase, whereas serum fatigue biomarkers such as ammonia, lactate and inorganic acid were markedly decreased.

CONCLUSION

These results indicate that GV can be used as a functional food for the development of a dietary beverage to alleviate fatigue.

Herbal preparation (HemoHIM) enhanced functional maturation of bone marrow-derived dendritic cells mediated toll-like receptor 4

Background

HemoHIM, which is an herbal preparation of three edible herbs (Angelicam gigas Nakai, Cnidium offinale Makino, and Peaonia japonica Miyabe), is known to have various biological and immunological activities, but the modulatory effects of this preparation on dendritic cells (DCs)-mediated immune responses have not been examined previously. DCs are a unique group of white blood cells that initiate primary immune responses by capturing, processing, and presenting antigens to T cells.

Results

In the present study, we investigated the effect of HemoHIM on the functional and phenotypic maturation of murine bone marrow-derived dendritic cells (BMDCs) both in vitro and in vivo. The expression of co-stimulatory molecules (CD40, CD80, CD86, MHC I, and MHC II) and the production of cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, IL-12p70, and TNF-α) were increased by HemoHIM in BMDCs. Furthermore, the antigen-uptake ability of BMDCs was decreased by HemoHIM, and the antigen-presenting ability of HemoHIM-treated mature BMDCs increased TLR4-dependent CD4⁺ and CD8⁺ T cell responses.

Conclusions

Our findings demonstrated that HemoHIM induces TLR4-mediated BMDCs functional and phenotypic maturation through in vivo and in vitro. And our study showed the antigen-presenting ability that HemoHIM-treated mature BMDCs increase CD4⁺ and CD8⁺ T cell responses by in vitro. These results suggest that HemoHIM has the potential to mediate DC immune responses.

The Protective Effects of Alisol A 24-Acetate from Alisma canaliculatum on Ovariectomy Induced Bone Loss in Vivo

Alisma canaliculatum is a herb commonly used in traditional Korean medicine, and has been shown in scientific studies to have antitumor, diuretic hepatoprotective, and antibacterial effects. Recently, the anti-osteoclastogenesis of alisol A 24-acetate from Alisma canaliculatum was investigated in vitro. However, the influence of alisol A 24-acetate on osteoporosis in animals has not been investigated. The present study was undertaken to investigate the anti-osteoporotic effect of alisol A 24-acetate on bone mass in ovariectomized (OVX) mice and to identify the mechanism responsible for its effects. OVX mice were treated daily with 0.5 or 2 μg/g of alisol A 24-acetate for a period of six weeks. It was found that these administrations significantly suppressed osteoporosis in OVX mice and improved bone morphometric parameters. The serum estradiol, bone alkaline phosphatase levels, regulatory T/Th17 cell numbers were significantly increased by alisol A 24-acetate as compared with untreated OVX mice. In addition, TRAP activity was inhibited by alisol A 24-acetate in OVX mice. These results suggest alisol A 24-acetate effectively prevents bone loss in OVX mice, and that it can be considered a potential therapeutic for the treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis.

The Inhibitory Effect of Alisol A 24-Acetate from Alisma canaliculatum on Osteoclastogenesis

Osteoporosis is a disease that decreases bone mass. The number of patients with osteoporosis has been increasing, including an increase in patients with bone fractures, which lead to higher medical costs. Osteoporosis treatment is all-important in preventing bone loss. One strategy for osteoporosis treatment is to inhibit osteoclastogenesis. Osteoclasts are bone-resorbing multinucleated cells, and overactive osteoclasts and/or their increased number are observed in bone disorders including osteoporosis and rheumatoid arthritis. Bioactivity-guided fractionations led to the isolation of alisol A 24-acetate from the dried tuber of Alisma canaliculatum. Alisol A 24-acetate inhibited RANKL-mediated osteoclast differentiation by downregulating NFATc1, which plays an essential role in osteoclast differentiation. Furthermore, it inhibited the expression of DC-STAMP and cathepsin K, which are related to cell-cell fusion of osteoclasts and bone resorption, respectively. Therefore, alisol A 24-acetate could be developed as a new structural scaffold for inhibitors of osteoclast differentiation in order to develop new drugs against osteoporosis.

Isoegomaketone induces apoptosis in SK-MEL-2 human melanoma cells through mitochondrial apoptotic pathway via activating the PI3K/Akt pathway

Isoegomaketone (IK) is a major biologically active component of Perilla frutescens. In this study, we investigated the contribution of reactive oxygen species (ROS) to IK-induced apoptosis in human melanoma SK-MEL-2 cells. We found that IK inhibited the proliferation of SK-MEL-2 human melanoma cells in a dose-dependent manner. IK also induced sub-G1 DNA accumulation, formation of apoptotic bodies, nuclear condensation, and a DNA ladder in SK-MEL-2 cells. IK also induced activation of caspase-3 and -9, whereas caspase‑8 was unaffected. Further, N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC, ROS scavenger) treatment to SK-MEL-2 cells significantly reduced IK-induced cell death. Pretreatment of NAC to SK-MEL-2 cells followed by 100 µM IK reduced the protein levels of Bax and cytochrome c as well as PARP cleavage, whereas the protein level of Bcl-2 increased. Moreover, IK inhibited the phosphorylation of AKT/mTOR protein and cell proliferation induced by LY294002, a PI3K inhibitor. In conclusion, IK-induced ROS generation regulates cell growth inhibition and it induces apoptosis through caspase‑dependent and -independent pathways via modulation of PI3K/AKT signaling in SK-MEL-2 cells.

3-deoxysilybin exerts anti-inflammatory effects by suppressing NF-κB activation in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated RAW264.7 macrophages

3-deoxysilybin (3-DS), also known as (-)-isosilandrin A, is a natural flavonoid of Silybum marianum. This study was designed to investigate the anti-inflammatory effect and the underlying molecular mechanisms of 3-DS in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW264.7 macrophages. 3-DS dose-dependently inhibited the production of NO and the expression of iNOS in LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 macrophages. 3-DS also inhibited the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines (MCP-1, TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β) in LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 macrophages. Moreover, 3-DS decreased the NF-κB DNA binding activity in LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 macrophages. Furthermore, 3-DS suppressed NF-κB activation by inhibiting the degradation of IκBα and nuclear translocation of p65 subunit of NF-κB in LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 macrophages. Taken together, the present study suggests for the first time that 3-DS may exhibit an anti-inflammatory effect through the suppression of NF-κB transcriptional activation in LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 macrophages.

Simultaneous analysis of seven 2-hydroxy fatty acids as tert-butyldimethylsilyl derivatives in plasma by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry

An efficient method for the simultaneous analysis of seven 2-hydroxy fatty acids (2-HFAs) as tert-butyldimethylsilyl (TBDMS) derivative was developed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry in selected ion monitoring mode. New mass spectral data on 2-hydroxycapric, 2-hydroxypalmitic, 2-hydroxystearic and 2-hydroxybehenic acids as di-TBDMS derivatives for hydroxyl and carboxyl groups were built. Under the optimal conditions, the present method showed a good correlation coefficient (r ≥ 0.999) in the range of 0.01-0.5 µg. The precision showed low relative standard deviation of <10%, and the accuracy (percentage relative error) varied from -5.2 to 0.3 for the seven 2-HFAs studied. Recovery rates of all 2-HFAs were  ≥ 93.2% with good precision. When applied to normal human plasma, seven 2-HFAs were positively identified. Therefore, the present efficient method will be useful for simultaneous analysis of 2-HFAs in plasma.

Enhanced dendritic cell maturation by the B-chain of Korean mistletoe lectin (KML-B), a novel TLR4 agonist

Korean mistletoe lectin (KML) is composed of A and B sub-chains. The B-chain binds to cell surfaces, whereas the A-chain hinders translation because it is a RIP (ribosome inactivating protein) inducing apoptosis. Although KML has various biological and immunological activities, its potential use in cancer therapy or as an adjuvant therapy is limited by its toxicity to normal cells. This study was conducted to determine whether the B-chain of KML (KML-B) has immunoadjuvant activity and cytotoxicity activity. To evaluate the immunomodulatory activities of B chain KML, in vitro experiments employing bone marrow-derived dendritic cells (BMDCs) were performed. Dendritic cells (DCs) are a unique group of white blood cells that are able to capture and process antigens for presentation to T cells, which constitute primary immune response. In the present study, KML-B was found to be non-cytotoxic to BMDCs. Furthermore, the expressions of co-stimulatory molecules (CD40, CD80, CD86, and MHC II) and the secretions of cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, IL-12p70, and TNF-α) were increased in BMDCs by KML-B. In addition, other indicators (antigen-uptake and CCR7 expression) of BMDC maturation were changed by KML-B, and the ability of KML-B to enhance various functions by BMDCs was found to be dependent on TLR4 expression. Moreover, BMDCs matured by KML-B induced naïve CD4(+) T cell differentiation toward Th1 cells directly and indirectly. These experiments confirm that KML-B exhibits potent immunomodulatory properties and suggest that KML-B be considered a potential dendritic cell-based cancer therapy and immunoadjuvant.

Immunostimulating Factor Isolated fromActinobacillus actinomycetemcomitansStimulates Monocytes and Inflammatory Macrophages

Immunostimulating factor (ISTF) isolated from Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans which has been described previously, is distinct from lipopolysaccharide and induces proliferation of B cells. This study was undertaken to investigate whether ISTF might enhance the stimulation of other immune cells. Immunohistochemically, ISTF exhibited a profound stimulating effect on macrophages and dendritic cells as well as B cells in the spleen of BALB/c mice. ISTF was also recognized for its capacity to induce direct activation of mouse macrophages to produce IL-6, TNF-alpha, and NO and MHC class II expression. Therefore, it is postulated that ISTF stimulates macrophages and possibly other cells to produce a wide variety of proinflammatory mediators, which may be involved in the chronicity and tissue destruction of periodontal disease.

Preventative effect of an herbal preparation (HemoHIM) on development of airway inflammation in mice via modulation of Th1/2 cells differentiation

HemoHIM, an herbal preparation of three edible herbs (Angelica gigas Nakai, Cnidium officinale Makino, Paeonia japonica Miyabe) is known to increase the Th1 immune response as well as reduce the allergic response in human mast cells. Here, our goal was to determine whether or not HemoHIM could induce Th1 cell differentiation as well as inhibit the development of airway inflammation. To study Th1/Th2 cell differentiation, naive CD4⁺ T cells isolated from C57BL/6 mouse spleens were cultured with or without HemoHIM. To examine airway inflammation, C57BL/6 mice were fed HemoHIM for 4 weeks before sensitization and provocation with ovalbumin (OVA). In an in vitro experiment, naive CD4⁺ T cells displayed increased Th1 (IFN-γ⁺ cell) as well as decreased Th2 (IL-4⁺ cell) differentiation in a HemoHIM concentration-dependent manner. Furthermore, in an airway inflammation mice model, eosinophil numbers in BALF, serum levels of OVA-specific IgE and IgG1, and cytokine (IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13) levels in BALF and the supernatant of splenocytes all decreased upon HemoHIM (100 mg/kg body weight) pretreatment (4 weeks). These results show that HemoHIM attenuated allergic airway inflammation in the mouse model through regulation of the Th1/Th2 balance.

Protective effects of HemoHIM on immune and hematopoietic systems against γ-irradiation

We examined the effect of HemoHIM on the protective efficacy of hematopoietic stem cells and on the recovery of immune cells against sublethal doses of ionizing radiation. Two-month-old mice were exposed to γ-rays at a dose of 8, 6.5, or 5 Gy for a30-day survival study, endogenous spleen colony formation, or other experiments, respectively. HemoHIM was injected intraperitoneally before and after irradiation. Our results showed that HemoHIM significantly decreased the mortality of sublethally irradiated mice. The HemoHIM administration decreased the apoptosis of bone marrow cells in irradiated mice. On the other hand, HemoHIM increased the formation of endogenous spleen colony in irradiated mice. In irradiated mice, the recovery of total leukocytes in the peripheral blood and lymphocytes in the spleen were enhanced significantly by HemoHIM. Moreover, the function of B cells, T cells, and NK cells regenerated in irradiated mice were significantly improved by the administration of HemoHIM. HemoHIM showed an ideal radioprotector for protecting hematopoietic stem cells and for accelerating the recovery of immune cells. We propose HemoHIM as a beneficial supplement drug during radiotherapy to alleviate adverse radiation-induced effects for cancer patients.

Ursolic acid ameliorates thymic atrophy and hyperglycemia in streptozotocin-nicotinamide-induced diabetic mice

The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of low-dose ursolic acid (UA) on glycemic regulation and immune responses in streptozotocin-nicotinamide (STZ/NA)-induced diabetic mice. Diabetic mice were supplemented with two different doses of UA (0.01 and 0.05%, w/w) or metformin (0.5%, w/w) for 4 weeks. Compared with the untreated diabetic group, UA and metformin significantly improved blood glucose, glycosylated hemoglobin, glucose tolerance, insulin tolerance and plasma leptin levels as well as aminotransferase activity. The plasma and pancreatic insulin concentrations were significantly higher in both UA groups than in the untreated diabetic group. Supplementation with metformin increased the pancreatic insulin level without a change in the plasma insulin level. The relative thymus weights were lower in the untreated diabetic group compared to the non-diabetic group; however, the UA or metformin group had significantly improved thymus weights. Mice receiving UA or metformin supplementation had increased CD4(+)CD8(+) subpopulations in the thymus compared to the untreated diabetic mice. Concanavalin A-stimulated splenic T-lymphocyte proliferation and single-positive (CD4(+) and CD8(+)) subpopulations were significantly higher in the UA-supplemented diabetic groups than in the untreated diabetic group, but lipopolysaccharide-stimulated B-lymphocyte proliferation and the CD19(+) subpopulation were not significantly different among the groups. In the STZ/NA-induced diabetic mice, metformin increased the splenic T-lymphocyte CD4(+) and CD8(+) cell numbers without any change in T-lymphocyte proliferation. Both doses of UA lowered splenic IL-6 levels, whereas metformin increased IFN-γ, IL-6 and TNF-α levels compared to the untreated diabetic mice. These results suggest that low-dose UA may be used as a hypoglycemic agent and immune modulator in non-obese type 2 diabetic mice.

Generation of a recloned transgenic cat expressing red fluorescence protein

Somatic cells from a first-generation red fluorescence protein transgenic cat (first RFP TG cat) were used to produce a recloned RFP transgenic cat (Re-RFP TG cat) (Felis catus) that systemically expressed RFP. A total of 281 RFP cloned embryos were transferred into 13 surrogate mothers (mean=21+/-7.7 embryos/recipient). One surrogate cat was diagnosed pregnant (7.7%) and delivered one live kitten. The presence of the RFP gene in the mRNA and genomic DNA of the Re-RFP TG cat was confirmed by polymerase chain reaction analyses, and red fluorescence was detected in its internal organs and placental tissue samples. Analysis of nine feline-specific microsatellite loci confirmed that the Re-RFP TG cat was genetically identical to the donor cat. To test whether results such as normality of offspring and a low cloning success were due to epigenetic modifications, global methylation of placenta from the two first cloned RFP TG cats (77.08% and 82.29%) and the Re-RFP TG cat (76.38%) were compared by bisulfite mutagenesis sequencing analysis. In conclusion, although cloning efficiency was low, we demonstrated the successful use of a cloned first RFP TG cat as a donor cat to produce a Re-RFP TG cat. These results may facilitate future developments in biomedical models for human therapeutic applications.

Enhanced antitumor efficacy of cisplatin in combination with HemoHIM in tumor-bearing mice

Background

Although cisplatin is one of the most effective chemotherapeutic agents, cisplatin alone does not achieve a satisfactory therapeutic outcome. Also cisplatin accumulation shows toxicity to normal tissues. In this study, we examined the possibility of HemoHIM both to enhance anticancer effect with cisplatin and to reduce the side effects of cisplatin in melanoma-bearing mice.

Methods

HemoHIM was prepared by adding the ethanol-insoluble fraction to the total water extract of a mixture of 3 edible herbs, Angelica Radix, Cnidium Rhizoma and Paeonia Radix. Anticancer effects of HemoHIM with cisplatin were evaluated in melanoma-bearing mice. We used a Cr⁵¹-release assay to measure the activity of NK/Tc cell and ELISA to evaluate the production of cytokines.

Results

In melanoma-bearing mice, cisplatin (4 mg/kg B.W.) reduced the size and weight of the solid tumors, and HemoHIM supplementation with cisplatin enhanced the decrease of both the tumor size (p < 0.1) and weight (p < 0.1). HemoHIM itself did not inhibit melanoma cell growth in vitro, and did not disturb the effects of cisplatin in vitro. However HemoHIM administration enhanced both NK cell and Tc cell activity in mice. Interestingly, HemoHIM increased the proportion of NK cells in the spleen. In melanoma-bearing mice treated with cisplatin, HemoHIM administration also increased the activity of NK cells and Tc cells and the IL-2 and IFN-γ secretion from splenocytes, which seemed to contribute to the enhanced efficacy of cisplatin by HemoHIM. Also, HemoHIM reduced nephrotoxicity as seen by tubular cell of kidney destruction.

Conclusion

HemoHIM may be a beneficial supplement during cisplatin chemotherapy for enhancing the anti-tumor efficacy and reducing the toxicity of cisplatin.

Ursolic acid enhances the cellular immune system and pancreatic beta-cell function in streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice fed a high-fat diet

This study investigated the effects of ursolic acid on immunoregulation and pancreatic beta-cell function in type 1 diabetes fed a high-fat diet for 4 weeks. Male mice were divided into non-diabetic, diabetic control, and diabetic-ursolic acid (0.05%, w/w) groups, which were fed a high-fat (37% calories from fat). Diabetes was induced by injection of streptozotocin (200 mg/kg B.W., i.p.). Ursolic acid significantly improved blood glucose levels, glucose intolerance, and insulin sensitivity compared to the diabetic group. The plasma insulin and C-peptide concentrations were significantly higher in the diabetic-ursolic acid group than in the diabetic group. Ursolic acid significantly elevated the insulin levels with preservation of insulin staining of beta-cells in the pancreas. In splenocytes, concanavalin (Con) A-induced T-cell proliferation was significantly higher in the diabetic-ursolic acid group compared to the diabetic group, but liposaccharide (LPS)-induced B-cell proliferation did not differ between groups. Ursolic acid enhanced IL-2 and IFN-gamma production in response to Con A stimulation, whereas it inhibited TNF-alpha production in response to LPS stimulation. In this study, neither streptozotocin nor ursolic acid had effects on lymphocyte subsets. These results indicate that ursolic acid exhibits potential anti-diabetic and immunomodulatory properties by increasing insulin levels with preservation of pancreatic beta-cells and modulating blood glucose levels, T-cell proliferation and cytokines production by lymphocytes in type 1 diabetic mice fed a high-fat diet.

Generation of neuronal-like cells from umbilical cord blood-derived mesenchymal stem cells of a RFP-transgenic cloned cat

Umbilical cord blood (UCB)-derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are multipotent adult stem cells, which can differentiation into cells of connective tissue and neural lineages. This study investigated the potential for neuronal differentiation of red fluorescent protein (RFP)-transgenic cat UCB-derived MSCs. The cells were cultured in pre-induction medium for 24 hr and in neuronal-induction medium for 72 hr. Immunofluorescent staining showed that 6.85% of the total cells were beta III-tubulin-positive, 3.37% were neurofilament light (NF-L)-positive and 7.04% were neurofilament medium (NF-M)-positive. A beta III-tubulin band was detected by western blot analysis. Our results demonstrate that RFP-transgenic UCB-derived MSCs can be differentiated into neuronal cells in vitro. Thus, RFP-transgenic MSCs could provide alternative tracing material for stem cell transplantation.

Restoration of the immune functions in aged mice by supplementation with a new herbal composition, HemoHIM

The effect of a new herbal composition, HemoHIM, on immune functions was examined in aged mice, in which various immune responses had been impaired. The composition HemoHIM was prepared by adding the ethanol-insoluble fraction to the total water extract of a mixture of three edible herbs, Angelica Radix, Cnidium Rhizoma and Paeonia Radix. Supplementation to the aged mice with HemoHIM restored the proliferative response and cytokine production of splenocytes with a response to ConA. Also, HemoHIM recovered the NK cell activity which had been impaired in the aged mice. Meanwhile aging is known to reduce the Th1-like function, but not the Th2-like function, resulting in a Th1/Th2 imbalance. HemoHIM restored the Th1/Th2 balance in the aged mice through enhanced IFN-gamma and IgG2a production, and conversely a reduced IL-4 and IgG1 production. It was found that one factor for the Th1/Th2 imbalance in the aged mice was a lower production of IL-12p70. However, HemoHIM restored the IL-12p70 production in the aged mice. These results suggested that HemoHIM was effective for the restoration of impaired immune functions of the aged mice and therefore could be a good recommendation for immune restoration in elderly humans.

Induction of apoptosis by thiosulfinates in primary human prostate cancer cells

Thiosulfinates, a substance of Allium tuberosum L., is a known folk medicine that has been extensively used in diet to treat diseases. In the present study, we have evaluated the effect of thiosulfinates from Allium tumberosum L. on proliferation of metastasis (DU145) and primary malignant tumor (RC-58T/h/SA#4)-derived human prostate cancer cells. Thiosulfinates decrease viable cell numbers in a dose- and time-dependent manner and induce apoptosis. The apoptosis induced by thiosulfinates is associated with the activation of initiator caspase-8, and -9, and the effector caspase-3. Thiosulfinates stimulated Bid cleavage, indicating that the apoptotic action of caspase-8-mediated Bid cleavage leads to the activation of caspase-9. Thiosulfinates decreased the expression of the anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-2, and increased the expression of the pro-apoptotic protein Bax. Thiosulfinates also increased the expression of AIF, a caspase-independent mitochondrial apoptosis factor, in RC-58T/h/#4 cells and induced DNA fragmentation and chromatin condensation. These results indicate that thiosulfinates from Allium tuberosum L. inhibit cell proliferation by inducing apoptosis in RC-58T/h/#4 cells which may be mediated via both caspase-dependent and caspase-independent pathways.