275 results on '"Roufogalis BD"'
Search Results
2. A Chinese formula for relief of Parkinsonʼs disease symptoms used concomitantly with levodopa
- Author
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Roufogalis, BD and Min, L
- Published
- 2012
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
3. Attenuation of Liver Pro-Inflammatory Responses by Zingiber officinale via Inhibition of NF-kappa B Activation in High-Fat Diet-Fed Rats
- Author
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Li, XH, McGrath, KCY, Nammi, S, Heather, AK, and Roufogalis, BD
- Subjects
Inflammation ,Male ,Plant Extracts ,NF-kappa B ,Anti-Inflammatory Agents ,Ginger ,Diet, High-Fat ,Polymerase Chain Reaction ,Rats ,Rats, Sprague-Dawley ,Liver ,Gene Expression Regulation ,Hepatocytes ,Animals ,Humans ,Cytokines ,Pharmacology & Pharmacy ,RNA, Messenger ,Cells, Cultured ,Signal Transduction - Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate whether treatment with a ginger (Zingiber officinale) extract of high-fat diet (HFD)-fed rats suppresses Nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB)-driven hepatic inflammation and to subsequently explore the molecular mechanisms in vitro. Adult male Sprague-Dawley rats were treated with an ethanolic extract of Zingiber officinale (400mg/kg) along with a HFD for 6weeks. Hepatic cytokine mRNA levels, cytokine protein levels and NF-κB activation were measured by real-time PCR, Western blot and an NF-κB nuclear translocation assay, respectively. In vitro, cell culture studies were carried out in human hepatocyte (HuH-7) cells by treatment with Zingiber officinale (100μg/mL) for 24hr prior to interleukin-1β (IL-1β, 8ng/mL)-induced inflammation. We showed that Zingiber officinale treatment decreased cytokine gene TNFα and IL-6 expression in HFD-fed rats, which was associated with suppression of NF-κB activation. In vitro, Zingiber officinale treatment decreased NF-κB-target inflammatory gene expression of IL-6, IL-8 and serum amyloid A1 (SAA1), while it suppressed NF-κB activity, IκBα degradation and IκB kinase (IKK) activity. In conclusion, Zingiber officinale suppressed markers of hepatic inflammation in HFD-fed rats, as demonstrated by decreased hepatic cytokine gene expression and decreased NF-κB activation. The study demonstrates that the anti-inflammatory effect of Zingiber officinale occurs at least in part through the NF-κB signalling pathway. © 2011 The Authors. Basic and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology © 2011 Nordic Pharmacological Society.
- Published
- 2012
4. Plantago ovata fibre smooths out peaks without interfering with blood levels of levodopa in patients with Parkinson's disease
- Author
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Roufogalis, BD, primary
- Published
- 2015
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
5. Specific reversal of multidrug resistance to colchicine in CEM/VLB100 cells by Gynostemma pentaphyllum extract
- Author
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Huang, THW, Bebawy, M, Tran, VH, and Roufogalis, BD
- Subjects
Plant Extracts ,Medicinal & Biomolecular Chemistry ,Cell Line, Tumor ,Humans ,Chromatography, Thin Layer ,Colchicine ,Drug Resistance, Multiple ,Gynostemma - Abstract
P-glycoprotein (P-gp)-mediated multiple drug resistance (MDR) is perhaps the most thoroughly studied cellular mechanism of cytotoxic drug resistance. Its efflux function can be circumvented by a wide range of pharmacological agents in vitro and in vivo. Most of these agents are pharmaceuticals used clinically for conditions other than cancer. However, their use in alleviating MDR is limited because the concentrations required for inhibition of the pump surpass their dose-limiting toxicity. The aim of this research is to study the role of gypenosides, isolated from Gynostemma pentaphyllum, as modulators of P-gp-mediated MDR in tumor cells, at both cellular and plasma membrane level. In the presence of total gypenoside preparation (0.1 mg/ml), an approximately 15-fold reversal of colchicine (COL) resistance was observed in P-gp-overexpressed CEM/VLB100 cells. However, the gypenoside sample showed no reversal effect in cells treated with vinblastine and taxol. A purified gypenoside sample (gypenoside fraction 100) exhibited even more significant reversal of COL resistance (∼42-fold) in the CEM/VLB100 cells. Further examination of the reversal effect of fraction 100 in membrane vesicles derived from CEM/VLB100 cells using the continuous fluorescence method found that gypenoside fraction 100 at 0.1 mg/ml completely abolished the transport of fluorescein-COL. © 2007 Elsevier GmbH. All rights reserved.
- Published
- 2007
6. Punica granatum flower extract, a potent alpha-glucosidase inhibitor, improves postprandial hyperglycemia in Zucker diabetic fatty rats
- Author
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Li, Y, Wen, S, Kota, BP, Peng, G, Li, GQ, Yamahara, J, and Roufogalis, BD
- Subjects
Blood Glucose ,Male ,Lythraceae ,Dose-Response Relationship, Drug ,Plant Extracts ,Medicinal & Biomolecular Chemistry ,Mice, Inbred Strains ,alpha-Glucosidases ,Flowers ,Postprandial Period ,Rats ,Rats, Zucker ,Diabetes Mellitus, Experimental ,Mice ,Punicaceae ,Animals ,Hypoglycemic Agents ,Glycoside Hydrolase Inhibitors ,Phytotherapy - Abstract
Postprandial hyperglycemia plays an important role in the development of type 2 diabetes and has been proposed as an independent risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. The flowering part of Punica granatum Linn. (Punicaceae) (PGF) has been recommended in Unani literature as a remedy for diabetes. We investigated the effect and action mechanism of a methanolic extract from PGF on hyperglycemia in vivo and in vitro. Oral administration of PGF extract markedly lowered plasma glucose levels in non-fasted Zucker diabetic fatty rats (a genetic model of obesity and type 2 diabetes), whereas it had little effect in the fasted animals, suggesting it affected postprandial hyperglycemia in type 2 diabetes. In support of this conclusion the extract was found to markedly inhibit the increase of plasma glucose levels after sucrose loading, but not after glucose loading in mice, and it had no effect on glucose levels in normal mice. In vitro, PGF extract demonstrated a potent inhibitory effect on alpha-glucosidase activity (IC50: 1.8 microg/ml). The inhibition is dependent on the concentration of enzyme and substrate, as well as on the length of pretreatment with the enzyme. These findings strongly suggest that PGF extract improves postprandial hyperglycemia in type 2 diabetes and obesity, at least in part, by inhibiting intestinal alpha-glucosidase activity.
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- 2005
7. Identification of a calcium signalling pathway of S-[6]-gingerol in HuH-7 cells
- Author
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Li, XH, McGrath, KCY, Tran, VH, Li, YM, Mandadi, S, Duke, CC, Heather, AK, Roufogalis, BD, Li, XH, McGrath, KCY, Tran, VH, Li, YM, Mandadi, S, Duke, CC, Heather, AK, and Roufogalis, BD
- Abstract
Calcium signals in hepatocytes control cell growth, proliferation, and death. Members of the transient receptor potential (TRP) cation channel superfamily are candidate calcium influx channels. NFB activation strictly depends on calcium influx and often induces antiapoptotic genes favouring cell survival. Previously, we reported that S-[6]-gingerol is an efficacious agonist of the transient receptor potential cation channel subfamily V member 1 (TRPV1) in neurones. In this study, we tested the effect of S-[6]-gingerol on HuH-7 cells using the Fluo-4 calcium assay, RT-qPCR, transient cell transfection, and luciferase measurements. We found that S-[6]-gingerol induced a transient rise in [ Ca2+ ] i in HuH-7 cells. The increase in [ Ca2+ ] i induced by S-[6]-gingerol was abolished by preincubation with EGTA and was also inhibited by the TRPV1 channel antagonist capsazepine. Expression of TRPV1 in HuH-7 cells was confirmed by mRNA analysis as well as a test for increase of [ Ca2+ ] i by TRPV1 agonist capsaicin and its inhibition by capsazepine. We found that S-[6]-gingerol induced rapid NFB activation through TRPV1 in HuH-7 cells. Furthermore, S-[6]-gingerol-induced NFB activation was dependent on the calcium gradient and TRPV1. The rapid NFB activation by S-[6]-gingerol was associated with an increase in mRNA levels of NFB-target genes: cIAP-2, XIAP, and Bcl-2 that encode antiapoptotic proteins. © 2013 Xiao-Hong Li et al.
- Published
- 2013
8. Identification and Characterisation of the RalA-ERp57 Interaction: Evidence for GDI Activity of ERp57
- Author
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Brymora, A, Duggin, IG, Berven, LA, van Dam, EM, Roufogalis, BD, Robinson, PJ, Brymora, A, Duggin, IG, Berven, LA, van Dam, EM, Roufogalis, BD, and Robinson, PJ
- Abstract
RalA is a membrane-associated small GTPase that regulates vesicle trafficking. Here we identify a specific interaction between RalA and ERp57, an oxidoreductase and signalling protein. ERp57 bound specifically to the GDP-bound form of RalA, but not the GTP-bound form, and inhibited the dissociation of GDP from RalA in vitro. These activities were inhibited by reducing agents, but no disulphide bonds were detected between RalA and ERp57. Mutation of all four of ERp57's active site cysteine residues blocked sensitivity to reducing agents, suggesting that redox-dependent conformational changes in ERp57 affect binding to RalA. Mutations in the switch II region of the GTPase domain of RalA specifically reduced or abolished binding to ERp57, but did not block GTP-specific binding to known RalA effectors, the exocyst and RalBP1. Oxidative treatment of A431 cells with H2O2 inhibited cellular RalA activity, and the effect was exacerbated by expression of recombinant ERp57. The oxidative treatment significantly increased the amount of RalA localised to the cytosol. These findings suggest that ERp57 regulates RalA signalling by acting as a redox-sensitive guanine-nucleotide dissociation inhibitor (RalGDI). © 2012 Brymora et al.
- Published
- 2012
9. Modulation of P-glycoprotein-mediated anticancer drug accumulation, cytotoxicity, and ATPase activity by flavonoid interactions
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Tran, VH, Marks, D, Duke, RK, Bebawy, M, Duke, CC, Roufogalis, BD, Tran, VH, Marks, D, Duke, RK, Bebawy, M, Duke, CC, and Roufogalis, BD
- Abstract
Flavonoids are components of plant foods and of many herbal medicines taken in combination with anticancer drugs. We have examined the potential of flavonoids to affect the accumulation and cytotoxicity of 3 cytotoxic drugs [vinblastine (VLB), daunorubicin (DNR), and colchicine (COL)] that are substrates for the ABC transporter, P-glycoprotein in a vinblastine-resistant T-cell leukemia, CEM/VBL100, that overexpresses P-glycoprotein. The effects of the flavonoids on accumulation and cytotoxicity of these drugs were different depending on the P-gp substrate used. Most of the 30 flavonoids tested decreased DNR accumulation in the VBL-resistant, but not sensitive, leukemia cells. By contrast, flavonoids that inhibited DNR accumulation enhanced the accumulation of fluorescently labeled vinblastine. None of these flavonoids affected COL accumulation. The effects of the flavonoids on the cytotoxicities of these drugs paralleled their effects on accumulation; the same flavonoids decreased DNR cytotoxicity but increased VLB cytotoxicity and had no effect on COL. Verapamil reversed the accumulation deficit and cytotoxicity of all three P-gp substrates. These effects correlated with the effects of flavonoids on P-gp-ATPase activity. Flavonoids that decreased DNR accumulation stimulated DNR-activated P-gp ATPase, whereas flavonoids that increased fluorescently labeled VLB accumulation inhibited VBL-stimulated P-gp ATPase activity, thereby accounting for the decrease or increase in cancer drug accumulation in resistant cells. We conclude that flavonoids often ingested by cancer patients may have different effects on anticancer drugs and that these findings should be considered in designing future combination treatments for cancer patients. Copyright © 2011, Taylor & Francis Group, LLC.
- Published
- 2011
10. The small GTPases Rab5 and RalA regulate intracellular traffic of P-glycoprotein
- Author
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Fu, D, van Dam, EM, Brymora, A, Duggin, IG, Robinson, PJ, Roufogalis, BD, Fu, D, van Dam, EM, Brymora, A, Duggin, IG, Robinson, PJ, and Roufogalis, BD
- Abstract
P-glycoprotein (P-gp) is a plasma membrane glycoprotein that can cause multidrug resistance (MDR) of cancer cells by acting as an ATP-dependent drug efflux pump. The regulatory effects of the small GTPases Rab5 and RalA on the intracellular trafficking of P-gp were investigated in HeLa cells. As expected, overexpressed enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP)-tagged P-gp (P-gp-EGFP) is mainly localised to the plasma membrane. However, upon cotransfection of either dominant negative Rab5 (Rab5-S34N) or constitutively active RalA (RalA-G23V) the intracellular P-gp-EGFP levels increased approximately 9 and 13 fold, respectively, compared to control P-gp-EGFP cells. These results suggest that Rab5 and RalA regulate P-gp trafficking between the plasma membrane and an intracellular compartment. In contrast, coexpression of constitutively active Rab5 (Rab5-Q79L) or dominant negative RalA (RalA-S28N) had no effect on the localisation of P-gp-EGFP. Furthermore, the intracellular accumulation of daunorubicin, a substrate for P-gp, increased significantly with an increased intracellular localisation of P-gp-EGFP. These results imply that it may be possible to overcome MDR by controlling the plasma membrane localisation of P-gp. © 2007 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
- Published
- 2007
11. Bromelain improves decrease in defecation in postoperative rats: modulation of colonic gene expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase.
- Author
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Wen, S, Huang, THW, Li, GQ, Yamahara, J, Roufogalis, BD, Li, Y, Wen, S, Huang, THW, Li, GQ, Yamahara, J, Roufogalis, BD, and Li, Y
- Abstract
Ileus continues to be a common consequence of abdominal surgery, causing significant patient discomfort and often leading to more serious problems. The therapy available is limited, hence, ileus remains an important clinical problem. Activation of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) directly modulates intestinal dysmotility after bowel manipulation and plays an essential role in initiating intestinal inflammation. Nuclear factor (NF)-kappaB is known to be a critical component of iNOS gene transcriptional activation in response to inflammatory stimuli. Bromelain is a crude extract from the pineapple stem, which is sold as a nutritional supplement to "promote digestive health" and as an anti-inflammatory medication in some developed countries. Here, we have found that oral administration of bromelain improves decrease in defecation in abdominal postoperative rats. Results showed that bromelain increased the wet weight, dry weight, water content and number of fecal pellets in laparotomized plus mechanically manipulated rats, suggesting improvement of postoperative ileus. Furthermore, bromelain treatment inhibited overexpressed iNOS mRNA and restored down-regulated inhibitor kappaBalpha mRNA in the colon of the postoperative rats. From the in vitro experiments, bromelain inhibits lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced nitrite overproduction in macrophage cell lines and LPS-induced NF-kappaB luciferase reporter gene expression in RAW264.7 macrophages transfected with NF-kappaB luciferase reporter gene. Thus, our findings suggest that bromelain improves decrease in defecation in postoperative rats, at least in part, by inhibiting colonic iNOS overexpression via NF-kappaB pathway. Our data indicates that bromelain may benefit patients with postoperative ileus.
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- 2006
12. Effect of short-term morphine exposure on P-glycoprotein expression and activity in cancer cell lines
- Author
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Pajic, M, Bebawy, M, Hoskins, JM, Roufogalis, BD, Rivory, LP, Pajic, M, Bebawy, M, Hoskins, JM, Roufogalis, BD, and Rivory, LP
- Abstract
Multidrug resistance (MDR) is a common problem in various types of cancer. One important factor in the development of MDR is overexpression of P-glycoprotein, encoded by the MDR1 gene. Morphine is the opioid of choice for moderate to severe cancer pain, and is a substrate of P-glycoprotein. Recently, morphine has been shown to induce P-glycoprotein expression in the rat brain. Using Western blot analysis and cytotoxicity assays respectively, we have investigated the effects of short-term (72 h) morphine treatment on P-glycoprotein expression in a panel of human cancer cell lines, and its effects on cellular resistance to the known P-glycoprotein substrates, vinblastine and colchicine. The effect of morphine on P-glycoprotein expression and activity in the mouse fibroblast NIH-3T3 cell was assessed to establish whether morphine effects are species specific. Short-term exposure to morphine did not result in any significant differences in P-glycoprotein expression or activity in any cancer cell lines. Morphine pre-treatment resulted in a moderate but significant increase in sensitivity of NIH-3T3 cells to vinblastine, but not colchicine. This study suggests that morphine effects may be cell-type specific. Importantly, however, it appears that short-term morphine treatment does not affect the MDR phenotype of tumour cells.
- Published
- 2004
13. Dynamic and intracellular trafficking of P-glycoprotein-EGFP fusion protein: Implications in multidrug resistance in cancer
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Fu, D, Bebawy, M, Kable, EPW, Roufogalis, BD, Fu, D, Bebawy, M, Kable, EPW, and Roufogalis, BD
- Abstract
In our present study, a P-glycoprotein-EGFP (P-gp-EGFP) fusion plasmid was constructed and functionally expressed in HeLa cells to investigate the intracellular localization and trafficking of P-glycoprotein (P-gp). Using immunocytochemistry and fluorescent confocal microscopy techniques, colocalization studies showed that after transfection, P-gp-EGFP was progressively transported from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) to the Golgi and finally to the plasma membrane within 12-48 hr. The degree of intracellular accumulation of daunorubicin was related to the particular localization of P-gp-EGFP. Significant daunorubicin accumulation occurred in transfected cells when P-gp-EGFP was localized predominantly within the ER, and accumulation remained high when P-gp-EGFP was mainly localized in the Golgi. However, there was little or no intracellular accumulation of daunorubicin when P-gp-EGFP was localized predominantly on the plasma membrane. Blocking the intracellular trafficking of P-gp-EGFP with brefeldin A (BFA) and monensin resulted in inhibition of traffic of P-gp-EGFP and retention of P-gp-EGFP intracellularly. Intracellular accumulation of daunorubicin also increased in the presence of BFA or monensin. Our study shows that P-gp-EGFP can be used to define the dynamics of P-gp traffic in a transient expression system, and demonstrates that localization of P-gp on the plasma membrane is associated with the highest level of resistance to daunorubicin accumulation in cells. Modulation of intracellular localization of P-gp with agents designed to selectively modify its traffic may provide a new strategy for overcoming multidrug resistance in cancer cells. © 2004 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
- Published
- 2004
14. Salacia oblonga improves cardiac fibrosis and inhibits postprandial hyperglycemia in obese Zucker rats.
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Li, Y, Peng, G, Li, Q, Wen, S, Huang, TH-W, Roufogalis, BD, Yamahara, J, Li, Y, Peng, G, Li, Q, Wen, S, Huang, TH-W, Roufogalis, BD, and Yamahara, J
- Abstract
Diabetes has a markedly greater incidence of cardiovascular disease than the non-diabetic population. The heart shows a slowly developing increase in fibrosis in diabetes. Extended cardiac fibrosis results in increased myocardial stiffness, causing ventricular dysfunction and, ultimately, heart failure. Reversal of fibrosis may improve organ function survival. Postprandial hyperglycemia plays an important role in the development of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular complications, and has been proposed as an independent risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. Salacia oblonga (S.O.) is traditionally used in the prevention and treatment of diabetes. We investigated the effects of its water extract on cardiac fibrosis and hyperglycemia in a genetic model of type 2 diabetes, the obese Zucker rat (OZR). Chronic administration of the extract markedly improved interstitial and perivascular fibrosis in the hearts of the OZR. It also reduced plasma glucose levels in non-fasted OZR, whereas it had little effect in the fasted animals, suggesting inhibition of postprandial hyperglycemia in type 2 diabetic animals, which might play a role in improvement of the cardiac complications of OZR. Furthermore, S.O. markedly suppressed the overexpression of mRNAs encoding transforming growth factor betas 1 and 3 in the OZR heart, which may be an important part of the overall molecular mechanisms. S.O. dose-dependently inhibited the increase of plasma glucose in sucrose-, but not in glucose-loaded mice. S.O. demonstrated a strong inhibition of alpha-glucosidase activity in vitro, which is suggested to contribute to the improvement of postprandial hyperglycemia.
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- 2004
15. Selective modulation of P-glycoprotein-mediated drug resistance
- Author
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Bebawy, M, Morris, MB, Roufogalis, BD, Bebawy, M, Morris, MB, and Roufogalis, BD
- Abstract
Multidrug resistance associated with the overexpression of the multidrug transporter P-glycoprotein is a serious impediment to successful cancer treatment. We found that verapamil reversed resistance of CEM/VLB100 cells to vinblastine and fluorescein-colchicine, but not to colchicine. Chlorpromazine reversed resistance to vinblastine but not to fluorescein-colchicine, and it increased resistance to colchicine. Initial influx rates of fluorescein-colchicine were similar in resistant and parental cells, whereas vinblastine uptake was about 10-fold lower in the resistant cells. These results provide indirect evidence that fluorescein-colchicine is transported from the inner leaflet of the membrane and vinblastine from the outer membrane leaflet. Verapamil inhibited fluorescein-colchicine transport in inside-out vesicles made from resistant cells, whilst chlorpromazine was found to activate the transport of fluorescein-colchicine. The chlorpromazine-induced activation of fluorescein-colchicine transport was temperature-dependent and may reflect its interaction with phospholipids localised in the same bilayer leaflet. Conversely, chlorpromazine localisation in this leaflet may be responsible for its allosteric inhibition of vinblastine transport from the opposing membrane leaflet. The proposed relationship between the selectivity of modulation of P-glycoprotein and the membrane localisation of the cytotoxic drug substrates and modulators may have important implications in the rational design of regimes for the circumvention of multidrug resistance clinically. © 2001 Cancer Research Campaign.
- Published
- 2001
16. A continuous fluorescence assay for the study of p-glycoprotein-mediated drug efflux using inside-out membrane vesicles
- Author
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Bebawy, M, Morris, MB, Roufogalis, BD, Bebawy, M, Morris, MB, and Roufogalis, BD
- Abstract
A fluorimetric procedure for assaying the transport activity of P- glycoprotein (P-gp) using a membrane vesicle model has been developed. In this assay methylene blue is incorporated into inside-out vesicles prepared from human acute lymphoblastic leukemic cells resistant to 100 ng · ml-1 vinblastine (VBL100) and their sensitive controls. The fluorescence of a fluorescent derivative of colchicine (fluorescein-colchicine) is quenched as the probe is transported across the vesicle membrane. The fluorescein- colchicine transport was found to be dependent on the presence of P- glycoprotein, required ATP, and was inhibited by vanadate and the reversal agent, verapamil, in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, the transport was competed against by the P-gp substrates, vinblastine and methotrexate. The transport of fluorescein-colchicine by P-gp was found to be cooperative (n = 1.23). The assay is rapid, requires small amounts of sample, and removes the need for the radioactive procedures used in the past. The assay should find use in characterizing the transport kinetics of P-gp, for examining and optimizing combinations of chemotherapeutics, and for examining the effects of reversal agents and substrates which potentially compete for transport with the fluorescent substrate probe. Other possible applications include examining P-gp-mediated transport properties of purified P-gp in reconstituted systems.
- Published
- 1999
17. Reversal of vinblastine transport by chlorpromazine in membrane vesicles from multidrug-resistant human CCRF-CEM leukaemia cells
- Author
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Syed, SK, primary, Christopherson, RI, additional, and Roufogalis, BD, additional
- Published
- 1998
- Full Text
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18. Modulation of diabetic retinopathy pathophysiology by natural medicines through PPAR-γ-related pharmacology.
- Author
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Song MK, Roufogalis BD, Huang TH, Song, Min K, Roufogalis, Basil D, and Huang, Tom H W
- Abstract
Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is one of the most common microvascular complications of diabetes and remains a major cause of preventable blindness among adults at working age. DR involves an abnormal pathology of major retinal cells, including retinal pigment epithelium, microaneurysms, inter-retinal oedema, haemorrhage, exudates (hard exudates) and intraocular neovascularization. The biochemical mechanisms associated with hyperglycaemic-induced DR are through multifactorial processes. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPAR-γ) plays an important role in the pathogenesis of DR by inhibiting diabetes-induced retinal leukostasis and leakage. Despite DR causing eventual blindness, only a few visual or ophthalmic symptoms are observed until visual loss develops. Therefore, early medical interventions and prevention are the current management strategies. Laser photocoagulation therapy is the most common treatment. However, this therapy may cause retinal damage and scarring. Herbal and traditional natural medicines may provide an alternative to prevent or delay the progression of DR. This review provides an analysis of the therapeutic potential of herbal and traditional natural medicines or their active components for the slowdown of progression of DR and their possible mechanism through the PPAR-γ pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2012
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
19. Gingerol metabolite and a synthetic analogue CAPSAROL inhibit macrophage NF-kappaB-mediated iNOS gene expression and enzyme activity.
- Author
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Aktan F, Henness S, Tran VH, Duke CC, Roufogalis BD, and Ammit AJ
- Published
- 2006
20. Korean red ginseng (Panax ginseng) improves plasma glucose and insulin levels, but not HbA1c, in well-controlled type 2 diabetes.
- Author
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Roufogalis BD, Vuksan V, and Sievenpiper JL
- Published
- 2007
21. Clinical trial of Mexican traditional medicine extracts: beneficial effects in type 2 diabetes?
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Roufogalis BD and Herrera-Arellano A
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- 2005
22. Fixed combination herbal product containing Radix echinaceae, Radix baptisiae and Herba thujae effective for the common cold.
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Roufogalis BD
- Published
- 2000
23. Comparison of the sedative properties of single doses of various plant extracts in comparison with a benzodiazepine.
- Author
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Roufogalis BD
- Published
- 1999
24. Improvement of hypertension symptoms by a four-herbal Kampo medicine.
- Author
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Roufogalis BD
- Published
- 2006
25. Chronic pain of spinal origin.
- Author
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Chrubasik S, Roufogalis BD, Chrubasik, Sigrun, and Roufogalis, Basil D
- Published
- 2003
26. Harpagoside suppresses lipopolysaccharide-induced iNOS and COX-2 expression through inhibition of NF-kappaB activation.
- Author
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Huang TH, Tran VH, Duke RK, Tan S, Chrubasik S, Roufogalis BD, and Duke CC
- Abstract
Preparations of Harpagophytum procumbens, known as devil's claw, are used as an adjunctive therapy for the treatment of pain and osteoarthritis. Pharmacological evaluations have proven the effectiveness of this herbal drug as an anti-inflammatory and analgesic agent. The present study has investigated the mechanism of action of harpagoside, one of the major components of Harpagophytum procumbens, using human HepG2 hepatocarcinoma and RAW 264.7 macrophage cell lines. Harpagoside inhibited lipopolysaccharide-induced mRNA levels and protein expression of cyclooxygenase-2 and inducible nitric oxide in HepG2 cells. These inhibitions appeared to correlate with the suppression of NF-kappaB activation by harpagoside, as pre-treating cells with harpagoside blocked the translocation of NF-kappaB into the nuclear compartments and degradation of the inhibitory subunit IkappaB-alpha. Furthermore, harpagoside dose-dependently inhibited LPS-stimulated NF-kappaB promoter activity in a gene reporter assay in RAW 264.7 cells, indicating that harpagoside interfered with the activation of gene transcription. These results suggest that the inhibition of the expression of cyclooxygenase-2 and inducible nitric oxide by harpagoside involves suppression of NF-kappaB activation, thereby inhibiting downstream inflammation and subsequent pain events. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2006
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
27. Plant-Derived Fermented Products: An Interesting Concept for Human Health.
- Author
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Khayatan D, Nouri K, Momtaz S, Roufogalis BD, Alidadi M, Jamialahmadi T, Abdolghaffari AH, and Sahebkar A
- Abstract
The health benefits of fermenting plant-derived products remain an underexplored domain. Plants and other natural products serve as medicinal agents when consumed as part of our diets, and the role of microorganisms in fermentation garners significant scientific interest. The present narrative review investigates the effects of fermentation of substances such as plants, algae, and fungi on their therapeutic and related purposes. Among the microorganisms used in fermentation, lactic acid bacteria are often linked to fermented products, particularly dairy and animal-based ones, and take center stage. These microorganisms are adept at synthesizing vitamins, active peptides, minerals, proteinases, and enzymes. Plant-derived fermented products are a significant source of active peptides, phytochemicals, flavonoids, and bioactive molecules with a profound impact on human health. They exhibit anti-inflammatory, anticarcinogenic, antiatherosclerotic, antidiabetic, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties, the effects being substantiated by experimental studies. Clinical investigations underscore their effectiveness in managing diverse health conditions. Various studies highlight a synergy between microorganisms and plant-based materials, with fermentation as an innovative method for daily food preparation or a treatment option for specific ailments. These promising findings highlight the need for continued scientific inquiry into the impact of fermentation-derived products in clinical settings. Clinical observations to date have offered valuable insights into health improvement for various disorders. This current narrative review explores the impact of natural and plant-originated fermented products on health and well-being., (© 2024 The Authors.)
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- 2024
- Full Text
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28. Effect of polyphenols against complications of COVID-19: current evidence and potential efficacy.
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Vajdi M, Karimi A, Hassanizadeh S, Farhangi MA, Bagherniya M, Askari G, Roufogalis BD, Davies NM, and Sahebkar A
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- Animals, Humans, SARS-CoV-2, Pandemics, Antiviral Agents pharmacology, Antiviral Agents therapeutic use, Antiviral Agents chemistry, Polyphenols pharmacology, Polyphenols therapeutic use, COVID-19
- Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic that started in 2019 and resulted in significant morbidity and mortality continues to be a significant global health challenge, characterized by inflammation, oxidative stress, and immune system dysfunction.. Developing therapies for preventing or treating COVID-19 remains an important goal for pharmacology and drug development research. Polyphenols are effective against various viral infections and can be extracted and isolated from plants without losing their therapeutic potential. Researchers have developed methods for separating and isolating polyphenols from complex matrices. Polyphenols are effective in treating common viral infections, including COVID-19, and can also boost immunity. Polyphenolic-based antiviral medications can mitigate SARS-CoV-2 enzymes vital to virus replication and infection. Individual polyphenolic triterpenoids, flavonoids, anthraquinonoids, and tannins may also inhibit the SARS-CoV-2 protease. Polyphenol pharmacophore structures identified to date can explain their action and lead to the design of novel anti-COVID-19 compounds. Polyphenol-containing mixtures offer the advantages of a well-recognized safety profile with few known severe side effects. However, studies to date are limited, and further animal studies and randomized controlled trials are needed in future studies. The purpose of this study was to review and present the latest findings on the therapeutic impact of plant-derived polyphenols on COVID-19 infection and its complications. Exploring alternative approaches to traditional therapies could aid in developing novel drugs and remedies against coronavirus infection., (© 2024. The Author(s) under exclusive licence to Maj Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences.)
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- 2024
- Full Text
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29. The effect of oral supplementation of Paricalcitol on C-reactive protein levels in chronic kidney disease patients: GRADE-assessed systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis of data from randomized controlled trials.
- Author
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Arabi SM, Shahraki-Jazinaki M, Chambari M, Bahrami LS, Sabeti S, Gubari MIM, Roufogalis BD, and Sahebkar A
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- Humans, Dietary Supplements, Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic, C-Reactive Protein analysis, Renal Insufficiency, Chronic drug therapy, Ergocalciferols
- Abstract
Background: Previous studies investigating the effect of oral supplementation of paricalcitol on reactive protein levels in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients reported inconsistent findings. In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we have analyzed and interpreted the results obtained from previous randomized clinical trials on the effect of paricalcitol on C-reactive protein in CKD patients in the literature., Methods: MEDLINE, SciVerse Scopus, and Clarivate Analytics Web of Science databases were searched until January 2023 and related articles were obtained through a careful screening process allowing extraction of required data from selected articles. The effect size was calculated using a random effect model and weighted mean differences (WMD) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). Heterogeneity among studies was evaluated using Cochran's Q test and I
2 ., Results: Amongst the 182 articles obtained from the initial search, 4 studies (6 arms) were finally included in the meta-analysis. Pooled analysis shows that C-reactive protein levels significantly decrease after oral supplementation with paricalcitol (WMD: -2.55 mg/L, 95% CI (-4.99 to -0.11; P = 0.04). The studies used in this meta-analysis showed significant heterogeneity (I2 = 66.3% and P = 0.01)., Conclusion: Oral paricalcitol supplementation in CKD patients can significantly reduce C-reactive protein levels, which may prevent CKD progression., (© 2024. The Author(s).)- Published
- 2024
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30. Curcumin Nanofibers: A Novel Approach to Enhance the Anticancer Potential and Bioavailability of Curcuminoids.
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Ataei M, Roufogalis BD, Majeed M, Shah MA, and Sahebkar A
- Subjects
- Animals, Diarylheptanoids, Biological Availability, Apoptosis, Curcumin pharmacology, Curcumin therapeutic use, Nanofibers
- Abstract
Development of novel treatment methods for cancer is needed given the limitations of current treatment methods, including side effects and chemotherapeutic resistance, which may provide new hope to cancer patients. Cancer is the second leading cause of global mortality. Curcumin, the active ingredient of turmeric, has been used since ancient times for various therapeutic purposes. Several studies have identified its activity against cancer. Despite the established anticancer activity of curcumin, its low aqueous solubility and bioavailability are barriers to its effectiveness. In an attempt to solve this problem, many studies have formulated curcumin nanofiber preparations using a variety of methods. Electrospinning is a simple and affordable method for the production of nanofibers. Studies have shown increased curcumin bioavailability in nanofibers resulting from their high surface/volume ratio and porosity. We have undertaken a detailed review of studies on the anticancer effects of curcumin nanofibers. Curcumin acts by inhibiting various biological cancer pathways, including NF-κB, mTOR, complex I, cytokines, expression of p-p65, Ki67, and angiogenesis-associated genes. It also induces apoptosis through activation of caspase pathways and ROS production in cancer cells. Curcumin-loaded PLA50/PVP50/Cur15 nanofibers were investigated in breast cancer, one of the most studied cancers, and was shown to have significant effects on the widely used HeLa-cell line. Most of the studies undertaken have been performed in cell lines in vitro, while relatively few animal studies have been reported. More preclinical and clinical studies are needed to evaluate the anticancer activity of curcumin nanofibers. Amongst studies undertaken, a variety of curcumin nanofibers of various formulations have been shown to suppress a variety of cancer types. Overall, curcumin nanofibers have been found to be more efficient than free curcumin. Thus, curcumin nanofibers have been observed to improvise cancer treatment, offering great potential for effective cancer management. Further studies, both in vitro and in vivo, involving curcumin nanofibers have the potential to benefit cancer management., (Copyright© Bentham Science Publishers; For any queries, please email at epub@benthamscience.net.)
- Published
- 2023
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31. Impact of Phytochemicals on PPAR Receptors: Implications for Disease Treatments.
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Enayati A, Ghojoghnejad M, Roufogalis BD, Maollem SA, and Sahebkar A
- Abstract
Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) are members of the ligand-dependent nuclear receptor family. PPARs have attracted wide attention as pharmacologic mediators to manage multiple diseases and their underlying signaling targets. They mediate a broad range of specific biological activities and multiple organ toxicity, including cellular differentiation, metabolic syndrome, cancer, atherosclerosis, neurodegeneration, cardiovascular diseases, and inflammation related to their up/downstream signaling pathways. Consequently, several types of selective PPAR ligands, such as fibrates and thiazolidinediones (TZDs), have been approved as their pharmacological agonists. Despite these advances, the use of PPAR agonists is known to cause adverse effects in various systems. Conversely, some naturally occurring PPAR agonists, including polyunsaturated fatty acids and natural endogenous PPAR agonists curcumin and resveratrol, have been introduced as safe agonists as a result of their clinical evidence or preclinical experiments. This review focuses on research on plant-derived active ingredients (natural phytochemicals) as potential safe and promising PPAR agonists. Moreover, it provides a comprehensive review and critique of the role of phytochemicals in PPARs-related diseases and provides an understanding of phytochemical-mediated PPAR-dependent and -independent cascades. The findings of this research will help to define the functions of phytochemicals as potent PPAR pharmacological agonists in underlying disease mechanisms and their related complications., Competing Interests: The authors have no conflicts of interest., (Copyright © 2022 Ayesheh Enayati et al.)
- Published
- 2022
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32. Ginger and its constituents: Role in treatment of inflammatory bowel disease.
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Lashgari NA, Momeni Roudsari N, Khayatan D, Shayan M, Momtaz S, Roufogalis BD, Abdolghaffari AH, and Sahebkar A
- Subjects
- Anti-Inflammatory Agents pharmacology, Anti-Inflammatory Agents therapeutic use, Humans, NF-kappa B metabolism, Plant Extracts pharmacology, Rhizome, Zingiber officinale, Inflammatory Bowel Diseases drug therapy
- Abstract
Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), with obscure etiology, are rising and are of worldwide concern. Of the various components of IBD pathogenesis and progression, irritation appears to play a major part. Investigations on the molecular and cellular pathways that activate the IBD provide the focus for the development of useful therapies. Ginger (the rhizome of Zingiber officinale) has a broad spectrum of clinical applications due to its anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative functions. Inflammation and oxidative stress are the key pathogenic factors in many diseases, including IBD. The most established components of ginger are phenolic compounds called gingerols. A wide range of pharmacological activities of the potential therapeutic benefit of Z. officinale have been detailed. In this regard, the anti-inflammatory activity of ginger has been documented by many researchers. It was shown that ginger is a potent inhibitor of the nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB), signal transducer of activators of transcription (STATs), Nod-like receptor family proteins (NLRPs), toll-like receptors (TLRs), mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPKs), and mTOR (mTOR) pathways, as well as inhibiting various pro-inflammatory cytokines. In the present report, the potential application of ginger in the management of IBD is reviewed in detail, with an emphasis on the relevant properties of ginger and its bioactive components. The significance of the functions, side effects, and delivery of ginger to the digestive system for particular application in IBD are also considered., (© 2021 International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology.)
- Published
- 2022
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33. Harnessing Therapeutic Potentials of Statins Using Nanofibrous Carriers.
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Ataei M, Roufogalis BD, Kesharwani P, Jamialahmadi T, and Sahebkar A
- Abstract
Statins are a wide category of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase inhibitor drugs extensively prescribed for hypercholesterolemia. In fact, many studies showed beneficial effects of these agents on a variety of related illnesses, which include increased atherosclerotic plaque stability, decreased proliferation of vascular smooth muscle, platelet aggregation, the dampening of vascular inflammation, and also anabolic effects on bone tissue. Therefore, these drugs are considered as pleiotropic agents having different clinical applications other than those for which they were initially developed. Controlled drug delivery is an efficient way of delivery in tissue engineering. Amongst different controlled release formulations, nanofibers are a novel, alternative, widely used agent because of their unique properties. These include their sustained release of drug, a high drug-loading capacity, flexible shapes with a high surface-to-volume ratio, and superior porosity. Electrospinning is an economic and a simple method employed to produce nanofibers. In this report, studies related to statin nanofiber applications have been reviewed and their results have been summarized. Four different applications of statin nanofibers have been reported, including bone generation, endothelial stenosis and thrombosis, peripheral nerve injury, and anti-inflammatory action. Studies carried out both in vitro and in vivo showed effectiveness of statins in bone healing, aneurysm, and the healing of sciatic nerve injury. In addition, statins showed apoptosis effects and anti-inflammatory effects, with dose-dependent reduction of IL-6 and dose-independent reduction of TNF- α . Despite these promising results, validation via clinical trials is yet to be performed. The scope of statins in their pleiotropic range of actions is still not completely explored, and studies are still needed to enlighten different useful aspects of such drugs., Competing Interests: The authors declare that they have no conflicts of interest., (Copyright © 2021 Mahshid Ataei et al.)
- Published
- 2021
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34. Impact of Curcumin on Microsomal Enzyme Activities: Drug Interaction and Chemopreventive Studies.
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Mashayekhi-Sardoo H, Mashayekhi-Sardoo A, Roufogalis BD, Jamialahmadi T, and Sahebkar A
- Subjects
- Animals, Herb-Drug Interactions, Humans, United States, Curcumin pharmacology
- Abstract
Curcumin, a yellow pigment in Asian spice, is a natural polyphenol component of Curcuma longa rhizome. Curcuminoid components include curcumin, demethoxycurcumin (DMC), and bisdemethoxycurcumin (BDMC). Previous studies established curcumin as a safe agent based on preclinical and clinical evaluations and curcuminoids have been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as "Generally Recognized as Safe" (GRAS). The present review collects and summarizes clinical and preclinical studies of curcumin interactions, with an emphasis on the effect of curcumin and curcumin analogs on the mRNA and protein levels of microsomal CYP450 enzymes (phase I metabolism) and their interactions with toxicants, drugs and drug probes. The literature search was conducted using keywords in various scientific databases, including Web of Science, Scopus, PubMed, and Google Scholar. Studies concerning the impact of curcumin and curcumin analogs on microsomal enzyme activity are reviewed and include oral, topical, and systemic treatment in humans and experimental animals, as well as studies from in vitro research. When taken together, the data identified some inconsistent results between various studies. The findings showed significant inhibition of CYP450 enzymes by curcumin and its analogs. However, such effects are often differed when curcumin and curcumin analogs were coadministered with toxicant and other drugs and drug probes. We conclude from this review that herb-drug interactions should be considered when curcumin and curcumin analogs are consumed., (Copyright© Bentham Science Publishers; For any queries, please email at epub@benthamscience.net.)
- Published
- 2021
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35. Resveratrol: Mechanistic and therapeutic perspectives in pulmonary arterial hypertension.
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Mirhadi E, Roufogalis BD, Banach M, Barati M, and Sahebkar A
- Subjects
- Animals, HSP90 Heat-Shock Proteins metabolism, Humans, Myocytes, Smooth Muscle drug effects, Myocytes, Smooth Muscle metabolism, Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension metabolism, Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension physiopathology, Pulmonary Artery cytology, Stilbenes pharmacology, Vascular Remodeling drug effects, Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension drug therapy, Stilbenes therapeutic use
- Abstract
Resveratrol, trans 3,5,4'-trihydroxystilbene, is a stilbenoid polyphenol with a wide range of properties including antioxidant, neuroprotective, cardioprotective, anti-inflammatory and anticancer activities. It is found in the skins of grape (50-100 μg/mL), red wine, peanuts, bilberries, blueberries and cranberries. The most important effects of resveratrol have been found in cardiovascular disease, with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) being a major severe and progressive component. Many factors are involved in the pathogenesis of PAH, including enzymes, transcription factors, proteins, chemokines, cytokines, hypoxia, oxidative stress and others. Resveratrol treats PAH through its actions on various signaling pathways. These signaling pathways are mainly suppressed SphK1-mediated NF-κB activation, BMP/SMAD signaling pathway, miR-638 and NR4A3/cyclin D1 pathway, SIRT1 pathway, Nrf-2, HIF-1 α expression, MAPK/ERK1 and PI3K/AKT pathways, and RhoA-ROCK signaling pathway. Resveratrol efficiently inhibits the proliferation of pulmonary arterial smooth muscle cells and right ventricular remodeling, which are underlying processes leading to enhanced PAH. While supportive evidence from randomized controlled trials is yet to be available, current in vitro and in vivo studies seem to be convincing and suggest a therapeutic promise for the use of resveratrol in PAH., (Copyright © 2020 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)
- Published
- 2021
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36. St John's wort (Hypericum perforatum L.): botanical, chemical, pharmacological and clinical advances.
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Barnes J, Arnason JT, and Roufogalis BD
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- Humans, Phytotherapy, Plant Oils pharmacology, Hypericum chemistry, Plant Extracts pharmacology, Plant Extracts therapeutic use
- Published
- 2019
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37. Interactions between antidiabetic drugs and herbs: an overview of mechanisms of action and clinical implications.
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Gupta RC, Chang D, Nammi S, Bensoussan A, Bilinski K, and Roufogalis BD
- Abstract
Diabetes is a complex condition with a variety of causes and pathophysiologies. The current single target approach has not provided ideal clinical outcomes for the treatment of the disease and its complications. Herbal medicine has been used for the management of various diseases such as diabetes over centuries. Many diabetic patients are known to use herbal medicines with antidiabetic properties in addition to their mainstream treatments, which may present both a benefit as well as potential risk to effective management of their disease. In this review we evaluate the clinical and experimental literature on herb-drug interactions in the treatment of diabetes. Pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic interactions between drugs and herbs are discussed, and some commonly used herbs which can interact with antidiabetic drugs summarised. Herb-drug interactions can be a double-edged sword presenting both risks (adverse drug events) and benefits (through enhancement). There is a general lack of data on herb-drug interactions. As such, more rigorous scientific research is urgently needed to guide clinical practice as well as to safeguard the wellbeing of diabetes patients.
- Published
- 2017
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38. An ethnopharmacological approach to the preliminary screening of native Australian herbal medicines for anticancer activity.
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Tan AC, Konczak I, Li G, Roufogalis BD, Sekhon B, and Sze DM
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- Acacia chemistry, Alstonia chemistry, Australia, Cell Survival drug effects, Eremophila Plant chemistry, Fruit chemistry, Humans, Medicine, Traditional, Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander, Antineoplastic Agents pharmacology, Cell Line, Tumor drug effects, Herbal Medicine, Leukocytes, Mononuclear drug effects, Multiple Myeloma drug therapy, Plant Extracts pharmacology, Plants, Medicinal chemistry
- Abstract
Background: Five plants used traditionally by Australian Aboriginals and two edible native Australian fruits have been investigated for anticancer activity. The aim was to identify native Australian herbal medicines which displayed anticancer activity, with cytotoxicity to cancer cells but sparing or even proliferating normal immunological cells, and subsequently provide potentially new anticancer drug leads., Methods: Extracts and derived fractions were assayed for cell viability against a multiple myeloma cell line, RPMI-8226, in comparison to the peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) representing normal human immunological cells., Results: None of the crude extracts exhibited the desirable differential activity; however, following further fractionation of the Eremophila duttonii F. Muell. (Myoporaceae) extract, one fraction (termed F01) exhibited a greater cytotoxicity to the cancer cell line than to the normal cells., Conclusions: One fraction may potentially contain valuable compounds which may be useful for further investigation. This may focus on the identification of the bioavailable purified compounds present within these fractions or by detailed delineation of the related mechanisms of action.
- Published
- 2015
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39. Natural Products: Biochemical-Chemical Characterization, and Evidence for Therapeutic Potential.
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Roufogalis BD, Nammi S, and Strehler EE
- Subjects
- Biological Products chemistry, Humans, Biological Products therapeutic use, Drug Design
- Published
- 2015
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40. Preventative effect of Zingiber officinale on insulin resistance in a high-fat high-carbohydrate diet-fed rat model and its mechanism of action.
- Author
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Li Y, Tran VH, Kota BP, Nammi S, Duke CC, and Roufogalis BD
- Subjects
- Animals, Catechols administration & dosage, Catechols isolation & purification, Catechols pharmacology, Diet, High-Fat, Dietary Carbohydrates administration & dosage, Disease Models, Animal, Dose-Response Relationship, Drug, Energy Metabolism drug effects, Fatty Alcohols administration & dosage, Fatty Alcohols isolation & purification, Fatty Alcohols pharmacology, Male, Mitochondria drug effects, Mitochondria metabolism, Muscle, Skeletal drug effects, Muscle, Skeletal metabolism, Plant Extracts administration & dosage, Plant Extracts chemistry, Rats, Rats, Sprague-Dawley, Zingiber officinale chemistry, Insulin Resistance, Metabolic Syndrome prevention & control, Plant Extracts pharmacology
- Abstract
Insulin resistance is a core component of metabolic syndrome and usually precedes the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus. We have examined the preventative effect of an ethanol extract of ginger (Zingiber officinale, Zingiberaceae) on insulin resistance in a high-fat high-carbohydrate (HFHC) diet-fed rat model of metabolic syndrome. The HFHC control rats displayed severe insulin resistance, whilst rats treated with ginger extract (200 mg/kg) during HFHC diet feeding showed a significant improvement of insulin sensitivity using the homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) after 10 weeks (p < 0.01). An in vitro mechanistic study showed that (S)-[6]-gingerol, the major pungent phenolic principle in ginger, dose-dependently (from 50 to 150 μM) increased AMPK α-subunit phosphorylation in L6 skeletal muscle cells. This was accompanied by a time-dependent marked increment of PGC-1α mRNA expression and mitochondrial content in L6 skeletal muscle cells. These results suggest that the protection from HFHC diet-induced insulin resistance by ginger is likely associated with the increased capacity of energy metabolism by its major active component (S)-[6]-gingerol., (© 2014 Nordic Association for the Publication of BCPT (former Nordic Pharmacological Society).)
- Published
- 2014
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41. Management of cardiorenal metabolic syndrome in diabetes mellitus: a phytotherapeutic perspective.
- Author
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Song MK, Davies NM, Roufogalis BD, and Huang TH
- Subjects
- Animals, Cardio-Renal Syndrome complications, Cardio-Renal Syndrome drug therapy, Cardio-Renal Syndrome physiopathology, Combined Modality Therapy adverse effects, Diabetic Cardiomyopathies drug therapy, Diabetic Cardiomyopathies physiopathology, Diabetic Nephropathies drug therapy, Diabetic Nephropathies physiopathology, Disease Progression, Humans, Medicine, Traditional adverse effects, Metabolic Syndrome complications, Metabolic Syndrome drug therapy, Metabolic Syndrome physiopathology, Cardio-Renal Syndrome therapy, Diabetic Cardiomyopathies therapy, Diabetic Nephropathies therapy, Metabolic Syndrome therapy, Phytotherapy adverse effects
- Abstract
Cardiorenal syndrome (CRS) is a complex disease in which the heart and kidney are simultaneously affected and their deleterious declining functions are reinforced in a feedback cycle, with an accelerated progression. Although the coexistence of kidney and heart failure in the same individual carries an extremely bad prognosis, the exact cause of deterioration and the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying the initiation and maintenance of the interaction are complex, multifactorial in nature, and poorly understood. Current therapy includes diuretics, natriuretic hormones, aquaretics (arginine vasopressin antagonists), vasodilators, and inotropes. However, large numbers of patients still develop intractable disease. Moreover, the development of resistance to many standard therapies, such as diuretics and inotropes, has led to an increasing movement toward utilization and development of novel therapies. Herbal and traditional natural medicines may complement or provide an alternative to prevent or delay the progression of CRS. This review provides an analysis of the possible mechanisms and the therapeutic potential of phytotherapeutic medicines for the amelioration of the progression of CRS.
- Published
- 2014
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42. Compound K modulates fatty acid-induced lipid droplet formation and expression of proteins involved in lipid metabolism in hepatocytes.
- Author
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Kim MS, Lee KT, Iseli TJ, Hoy AJ, George J, Grewal T, and Roufogalis BD
- Subjects
- AMP-Activated Protein Kinases metabolism, Analysis of Variance, Azo Compounds, Blotting, Western, Cell Line, Gene Expression Regulation drug effects, Humans, Immunohistochemistry, Indoles, Lipid Metabolism drug effects, PPAR alpha metabolism, Phosphorylation drug effects, Triglycerides metabolism, Fatty Acids metabolism, Fatty Liver metabolism, Gene Expression Regulation physiology, Ginsenosides pharmacology, Hepatocytes metabolism, Lipid Metabolism physiology
- Abstract
Background & Aims: A key factor in the development of type 2 diabetes and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is hepatic steatosis. Incubation of human hepatic cells with free fatty acids (FFAs) causes accumulation of neutral lipids in lipid droplets (LDs) and serves as a model for hepatic steatosis. Ginsenosides, active constituents of ginsengs, have demonstrated beneficial effects in various pharmacological areas, including diabetes, however their effect on lipid accumulation in hepatocytes remains unclear. Here, we examine the effect of compound K (ComK), an active metabolite of ginsenosides, on the regulation of LD formation and on the expression of proteins involved in lipid homeostasis in hepatocytes., Methods: HuH7 cells were pretreated with ComK, followed by lipid loading with FFA. LDs were visualized using Oil Red O staining and immunohistochemistry for the LD-related protein PLIN2. Triglyceride levels were determined in isolated LDs. The expression of proteins involved in lipid homeostasis was examined by Western blotting., Results: Treatment with ComK significantly decreased LD formation in FFA-loaded HuH7 cells and increased phosphorylation levels of AMPK, and its substrate ACC. ComK also increased protein expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-α (PPAR-α) and acyl-CoA oxidase (ACOX1) together with elevated activity of a PPAR-α response element reporter construct. These effects were inhibited by the PPAR-α antagonist MK886., Conclusions: ComK reduced LD formation and TG accumulation in FFA-loaded hepatocytes, in part by up-regulating AMPK activity and PPAR-α related pathways. These results suggest that ComK may have efficacy for the treatment of hepatic steatosis and associated diseases., (© 2013 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)
- Published
- 2013
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43. Evidence-based toxicity evaluation and scheduling of Chinese herbal medicines.
- Author
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Kim EJ, Chen Y, Huang JQ, Li KM, Razmovski-Naumovski V, Poon J, Chan K, Roufogalis BD, McLachlan AJ, Mo SL, Yang D, Yao M, Liu Z, Liu J, and Li GQ
- Subjects
- Animals, Australia, China, Drug Labeling, Drugs, Chinese Herbal classification, Drugs, Chinese Herbal standards, Humans, Legislation, Drug, Medicine, Chinese Traditional, Plants, Medicinal classification, Toxicity Tests, Drugs, Chinese Herbal toxicity, Plants, Medicinal toxicity
- Abstract
Ethnopharmacological Relevance: While there is an increasing number of toxicity report cases and toxicological studies on Chinese herbal medicines, the guidelines for toxicity evaluation and scheduling of Chinese herbal medicines are lacking., Aim: The aim of this study was to review the current literature on potentially toxic Chinese herbal medicines, and to develop a scheduling platform which will inform an evidence-based regulatory framework for these medicines in the community., Materials and Methods: The Australian and Chinese regulations were used as a starting point to compile a list of potentially toxic herbs. Systematic literature searches of botanical and pharmaceutical Latin name, English and Chinese names and suspected toxic chemicals were conducted on Medline, PubMed and Chinese CNKI databases., Results: Seventy-four Chinese herbal medicines were identified and five of them were selected for detailed study. Preclinical and clinical data were summarised at six levels. Based on the evaluation criteria, which included risk-benefit analysis, severity of toxic effects and clinical and preclinical data, four regulatory classes were proposed: Prohibited for medicinal usage, which are those with high toxicity and can lead to injury or death, e.g., aristolochia; Restricted for medicinal usage, e.g., aconite, asarum, and ephedra; Required warning label, e.g., coltsfoot; and Over-the-counter herbs for those herbs with a safe toxicity profile., Conclusion: Chinese herbal medicines should be scheduled based on a set of evaluation criteria, to ensure their safe use and to satisfy the need for access to the herbs. The current Chinese and Australian regulation of Chinese herbal medicines should be updated to restrict the access of some potentially toxic herbs to Chinese medicine practitioners who are qualified through registration., (Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.)
- Published
- 2013
- Full Text
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44. Identification of a Calcium Signalling Pathway of S-[6]-Gingerol in HuH-7 Cells.
- Author
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Li XH, McGrath KC, Tran VH, Li YM, Mandadi S, Duke CC, Heather AK, and Roufogalis BD
- Abstract
Calcium signals in hepatocytes control cell growth, proliferation, and death. Members of the transient receptor potential (TRP) cation channel superfamily are candidate calcium influx channels. NF κ B activation strictly depends on calcium influx and often induces antiapoptotic genes favouring cell survival. Previously, we reported that S-[6]-gingerol is an efficacious agonist of the transient receptor potential cation channel subfamily V member 1 (TRPV1) in neurones. In this study, we tested the effect of S-[6]-gingerol on HuH-7 cells using the Fluo-4 calcium assay, RT-qPCR, transient cell transfection, and luciferase measurements. We found that S-[6]-gingerol induced a transient rise in [Ca(2+)] i in HuH-7 cells. The increase in [Ca(2+)] i induced by S-[6]-gingerol was abolished by preincubation with EGTA and was also inhibited by the TRPV1 channel antagonist capsazepine. Expression of TRPV1 in HuH-7 cells was confirmed by mRNA analysis as well as a test for increase of [Ca(2+)] i by TRPV1 agonist capsaicin and its inhibition by capsazepine. We found that S-[6]-gingerol induced rapid NF κ B activation through TRPV1 in HuH-7 cells. Furthermore, S-[6]-gingerol-induced NF κ B activation was dependent on the calcium gradient and TRPV1. The rapid NF κ B activation by S-[6]-gingerol was associated with an increase in mRNA levels of NF κ B-target genes: cIAP-2, XIAP, and Bcl-2 that encode antiapoptotic proteins.
- Published
- 2013
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45. Proceedings of conference on Mechanism-Based Development of Natural Products for Human Health.
- Author
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Roufogalis BD, Conigrave AD, and Strehler EE
- Abstract
Mechanism-Based Development of Natural Products in Human Health.
- Published
- 2013
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46. (S)-[6]-Gingerol enhances glucose uptake in L6 myotubes by activation of AMPK in response to [Ca2+]i.
- Author
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Li Y, Tran VH, Koolaji N, Duke C, and Roufogalis BD
- Subjects
- AMP-Activated Protein Kinases genetics, Animals, Calcium metabolism, Cell Line, Muscle Fibers, Skeletal metabolism, RNA, Small Interfering genetics, Rats, AMP-Activated Protein Kinases metabolism, Catechols pharmacology, Fatty Alcohols pharmacology, Glucose metabolism, Hypoglycemic Agents pharmacology, Muscle Fibers, Skeletal drug effects
- Abstract
Purpose: The aim of this study was to investigate the mechanism of (S)-[6]-gingerol in promoting glucose uptake in L6 skeletal muscle cells., Methods: The effect of (S)-[6]-gingerol on glucose uptake in L6 myotubes was examined using 2-[1,2-3H]-deoxy-D-glucose. Intracellular Ca2+ concentration was measured using Fluo-4. Phosphorylation of AMPKα was determined by Western blotting analysis., Results: (S)-[6]-Gingerol time-dependently enhanced glucose uptake in L6 myotubes. (S)-[6]-Gingerol elevated intracellular Ca2+ concentration and subsequently induced a dose- and time-dependent enhancement of threonine172 phosphorylated AMPKα in L6 myotubes via modulation by Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase kinase., Conclusion: The results indicated that (S)-[6]-gingerol increased glucose uptake in L6 skeletal muscle cells by activating AMPK. (S)-[6]-gingerol, a major component of Zingiber officinale, may have potential for development as an antidiabetic agent.
- Published
- 2013
- Full Text
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47. Attenuation of Proinflammatory Responses by S-[6]-Gingerol via Inhibition of ROS/NF-Kappa B/COX2 Activation in HuH7 Cells.
- Author
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Li XH, McGrath KC, Tran VH, Li YM, Duke CC, Roufogalis BD, and Heather AK
- Abstract
Introduction. Hepatic inflammation underlies the pathogenesis of chronic diseases such as insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes mellitus. S-[6]-Gingerol has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties. Important inflammatory mediators of interleukins include nuclear factor κ B (NF κ B) and cyclooxygenase 2 (COX2). We now explore the mechanism of anti-inflammatory effects of S-[6]-gingerol in liver cells. Methods. HuH7 cells were stimulated with IL1β to establish an in vitro hepatic inflammatory model. Results. S-[6]-Gingerol attenuated IL1β-induced inflammation and oxidative stress in HuH7 cells, as evidenced by decreasing mRNA levels of inflammatory factor IL6, IL8, and SAA1, suppression of ROS generation, and increasing mRNA levels of DHCR24. In addition, S-[6]-gingerol reduced IL1β-induced COX2 upregulation as well as NF κ B activity. Similar to the protective effects of S-[6]-gingerol, both NS-398 (a selective COX2 inhibitor) and PDTC (a selective NF κ B inhibitor) suppressed mRNA levels of IL6, IL8, and SAA1. Importantly, PDTC attenuated IL1β-induced overexpression of COX2. Of particular note, the protective effect of S-[6]-gingerol against the IL1β-induced inflammatory response was similar to that of BHT, an ROS scavenger. Conclusions. The findings of this study demonstrate that S-[6]-gingerol protects HuH7 cells against IL1β-induced inflammatory insults through inhibition of the ROS/NF κ B/COX2 pathway.
- Published
- 2013
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48. Light-to-moderate ethanol feeding augments AMPK-α phosphorylation and attenuates SREBP-1 expression in the liver of rats.
- Author
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Nammi S and Roufogalis BD
- Subjects
- Animals, Body Weight drug effects, Hydroxymethylglutaryl CoA Reductases metabolism, Intracellular Signaling Peptides and Proteins metabolism, Liver metabolism, Male, Membrane Proteins metabolism, Rats, Rats, Sprague-Dawley, AMP-Activated Protein Kinases metabolism, Ethanol administration & dosage, Liver drug effects, Sterol Regulatory Element Binding Protein 1 metabolism
- Abstract
Purpose: Fatty liver disease, a hepatic manifestation of metabolic syndrome, is one of the major causes of chronic liver diseases. Epidemiological studies suggest that regular light-to-moderate ethanol consumption lowers the risk of developing metabolic disorders including dislipidemia, insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes and fatty liver disease. However, the mechanism(s) of the protective effect of light-to-moderate ethanol consumption on the liver remains unknown., Methods: In the present study, we investigated the effects of light (6%, 0.94 g/kg/day) and moderate (12%, 1.88 g/kg/day) ethanol feeding in rats for 3 weeks on the circulating and hepatic biochemical profiles and on the hepatic protein expression and phosphorylation status of adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase-α (AMPK-α) and other down-stream targets of this enzyme including sterol regulatory element-binding protein-1 (SREBP-1), SREBP cleavage-activating protein (SCAP) and 3-hydroxy-3-methyl-glutaryl-CoA reductase (HMG-CoA reductase)., Results: Despite no significant difference in food-intake among the groups, light ethanol treatment significantly increased the body weight compared to control rats. Serum glucose, insulin, total cholesterol, triglycerides, phospholipids and hepatic cholesterol and triglycerides were not significantly different among the groups. However, serum free fatty acids were significantly reduced with light ethanol treatment. Both light and moderate ethanol treatment significantly increased the hepatic levels of phosphorylated AMPK-α protein and this was associated with significant reduction of SREBP-1 protein expression, suggesting an enhanced fatty acid oxidation. In addition, light ethanol treatment significantly decreased the SCAP protein expression in the liver. However, liver HMG-CoA protein expression was not significantly different with ethanol consumption., Conclusion: Chronic light-to-moderate ethanol consumption increased AMPK activation which was associated with decreased expression of SREBP-1 and SCAP in the liver. Thus, our studies provide mechanistic evidence for the earlier epidemiological studies that indicate light-to-moderate ethanol intake lowers the risk of development of fatty liver disease and other metabolic disorders. Our studies demonstrate that the protective effects of light-to-moderate ethanol arise at least in part by increased phosphorylation of AMPK-α and decreased SREBP-1 expression in the liver. Further studies are warranted to determine the effects of light-to-moderate ethanol on intracellular up-stream and down-stream targets of AMPK and also on the implications of light-to-moderate ethanol in protecting non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
- Published
- 2013
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
49. Fruit juices as perpetrators of drug interactions: the role of organic anion-transporting polypeptides.
- Author
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Dolton MJ, Roufogalis BD, and McLachlan AJ
- Subjects
- Administration, Oral, Animals, Biological Availability, Humans, Pharmaceutical Preparations administration & dosage, Pharmaceutical Preparations metabolism, Beverages, Food-Drug Interactions, Fruit, Organic Anion Transporters metabolism
- Abstract
Grapefruit juice is widely recognized to cause important drug interactions via inhibition of CYP3A4, and a wider variety of fruit juices have been shown to inhibit influx transporters in enterocytes known as organic anion-transporting polypeptides (OATPs). Fruit juice coadministration significantly reduces the oral bioavailability of numerous important medicines relying on this anion transporter pathway for absorption. This article reviews the current literature on interactions between clinically used OATP substrates and fruit juice consumption.
- Published
- 2012
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
50. Gingerols of Zingiber officinale enhance glucose uptake by increasing cell surface GLUT4 in cultured L6 myotubes.
- Author
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Li Y, Tran VH, Duke CC, and Roufogalis BD
- Subjects
- Animals, Biological Transport drug effects, Catechols chemistry, Catechols isolation & purification, Cell Line, Cell Membrane drug effects, Cell Membrane metabolism, Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2, Fatty Alcohols chemistry, Fatty Alcohols isolation & purification, Glucose Transporter Type 4 metabolism, Medicine, Chinese Traditional, Molecular Structure, Muscle Fibers, Skeletal drug effects, Muscle Fibers, Skeletal metabolism, Plant Extracts chemistry, Plant Extracts isolation & purification, Rats, Catechols pharmacology, Fatty Alcohols pharmacology, Zingiber officinale chemistry, Glucose metabolism, Glucose Transporter Type 4 drug effects, Plant Extracts pharmacology, Rhizome chemistry
- Abstract
In this study we investigate the active constituents of the rhizome of Zingiber officinale, Roscoe (ginger) and determine their activity on glucose uptake in cultured L6 myotubes and the molecular mechanism underlying this action. Freeze-dried ginger powder was extracted with ethyl acetate (1 kg/3 L) to give the total ginger extract, which was then separated into seven fractions, consisting of nonpolar to moderately polar compounds, using a short-column vacuum chromatographic method. The most active fraction (F7) was further purified for identification of its active components. The effect of the extract, fractions, and purified compounds on glucose uptake was evaluated using radioactive labelled 2-[1,2-³H]-deoxy-D-glucose in L6 myotubes. The pungent phenolic gingerol constituents were identified as the major active compounds in the ginger extract enhancing glucose uptake. (S)-[6]-Gingerol was the most abundant component among the gingerols, however, (S)-[8]-gingerol was the most potent on glucose uptake. The activity of (S)-[8]-gingerol was found to be associated primarily with an increase in surface distribution of GLUT4 protein on the L6 myotube plasma membrane, as detected by expression of hemagglutinin epitope-tagged GLUT4 in L6 muscle cells. The enhancement of glucose uptake in L6 rat skeletal muscle cells by the gingerol pungent principles of the ginger extract supports the potential of ginger and its pungent components for the prevention and management of hyperglycemia and type 2 diabetes., (Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.)
- Published
- 2012
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
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