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Particulate matter (PM), an environmental risk factor, is linked with health risks such as respiratory diseases. This study aimed to establish an animal model of PM-induced lung injury with artificial PM (APM) and identify the potential of APM for toxicological research. APM was generated from graphite at 600 °C and combined with ethylene. We analyzed diesel exhaust particulate (DEP) and APM compositions and compared toxicity and transcriptomic profiling in lungs according to the exposure. For the animal study, C57BL/6 male mice were intratracheally administered vehicle, DEP, or APM. DEP or APM increased relative lung weight, inflammatory cell numbers, and inflammatory protein levels compared with the vehicle control. Histological assessments showed an increase in particle-pigment alveolar macrophages and slight inflammation in the lungs of DEP and APM mice. In the only APM group, granulomatous inflammation, pulmonary fibrosis, and mucous hyperplasia were observed in the lungs of some individuals. This is the first study to compare pulmonary toxicity between DEP and APM in an animal model. Our results suggest that the APM-treated animal model may contribute to understanding the harmful effects of PM in toxicological studies showing that APM can induce various lung diseases according to different doses of APM., (© 2023. The Author(s).)

Background: Silkworm pupa (SWP) food anaphylaxis has been described frequently in Asian countries. However, false-positive reactions by skin pricks and serum IgE (sIgE) tests to the extract complicate diagnosis, requiring identification of clinically relevant major allergens., Objectives: In this study, we characterized a novel SWP allergen, Bomb m 4, a 30-kDa lipoprotein, and evaluated its diagnostic sensitivity., Methods: Bomb m 4 was identified by a proteomic analysis. This recombinant (r)Bomb m 4 was overexpressed in Escherichia coli, and the IgE reactivity by ELISA was compared with other reported allergenic proteins: Bomb m 1 (arginine kinase), 27-kDa glycoprotein, Bomb m 3 (tropomyosin) using the serum samples from 17 SWP allergic patients and 11 asymptomatic sensitized subjects., Results: rBomb m 4-specific IgE was recognized by all 17 SWP allergic patients. The 27-kDa glycoprotein and Bomb m 1 sIgE were found in 35.3% and 0%, respectively, in the SWP allergic patients. ELISA sIgE reactivity increased significantly, when 4 M urea was added in serum samples. However, only 16% inhibition of sIgE reactivity to the whole SWP extract was exhibited by rBomb m 4, whereas more than 93% of self-inhibition of rBomb m 4 sIgE was obtained, possibly due to the low abundance of Bomb m 4 in the extract. Three linear epitopes (81-95, 191-205 and 224-238 residues) of rBomb m 4 were identified. These epitopes are shown to be released by pepsin digestion. Receiver operator characteristic (ROC) analysis showed the highest diagnostic value of Bomb m 4 followed by Bomb m 1, 27-kDa glycoprotein and Bomb m 3., Conclusion: Bomb m 4 is the major allergen of SWP allergic patients. It has cryptic epitopes which are exposed to IgE antibodies with digestive enzymes. This recombinant Bomb m 4 allergen permits exact diagnosis of SWP allergy., (© 2022 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Purpose: Diagnostic tests for allergen sensitization should reflect real exposure. We made 6 new bony fish extracts, which are consumed popularly in Korea, and evaluated their allergenicity and stability., Methods: We manufactured fish extracts from codfish, mackerel, common eel, flounder, cutlass, and catfish. Protein and parvalbumin (PV) were evaluated by Bradford assay, 2-site enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, sodium dodecyl sulphate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE), and anti-PV immunoblotting. The immunoglobulin E (IgE) reactivities of the extracts were evaluated with ImmunoCAP and IgE immunoblotting using sera from 24 Korean fish allergy patients, 5 asymptomatic sensitizers, and 11 non-atopic subjects. Stability of the extracts stored in 4 different buffers were evaluated for up to a year., Results: The protein concentrations of commercial SPT fish extracts varied with up to a 7.5-fold difference. SDS-PAGE showed marked differences in the PV concentrations of commercial SPT reagents. Specific IgE measurements for the following investigatory fish extracts-iCodfish, iMackerel, and iEel-were concordant with that of their corresponding Phadia ImmunoCAP measurements. ImmunoCAP results showed marked IgE cross-reactivity among the fish species, and the overall sensitivity of ImmunoCAP with the investigatory fish extracts for identification of culprit fish species was 85.7%. The protein and PV concentrations in the investigatory extracts were highly stable in saline with 0.3% phenol-50% glycerol at 4°C for up to a year., Conclusions: The commercial SPT fish extracts exhibited considerable variation in terms of allergenicity, which may impact on diagnostic accuracy. Our new fish extracts have sufficient allergenicity and stability and may be adequate to various clinical applications., Competing Interests: There are no financial or other issues that might lead to conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2021 The Korean Academy of Asthma, Allergy and Clinical Immunology · The Korean Academy of Pediatric Allergy and Respiratory Disease.)

Competing Interests: JD Kim, KY Jeong, KH Park, JH Lee, and JW Park share equivalents of Prolagen, Ltd. JW Park reports serving as an unpaid chief technology officer for Prolagen. KY Jeong is a Technical Advisor of Prolagen. JT Kim and JD Kim are co-chief executive officers. HH Kim, SH Kim, DJ Kim, and YJ Shin are employees of Prolagen. The interests of these authors did not influence academic fairness in conducting this study, analyzing results, and writing a paper. Other authors have no potential conflicts of interest to disclose.

Background: Japanese hop is an important cause of weed pollinosis in East Asia. Its pollen is abundant in autumn. This pollen is known to be the cause of many allergic diseases. However, molecular characteristics of its allergens have not been elucidated., Objective: In this study, we produced recombinant proteins of allergen homologues from Japanese hop by the analysis of expressed sequence tags (EST), and evaluated its allergenicity., Methods: cDNA library was constructed using as little as 50 ng of total RNA from Japanese hop pollen. Allergen homologues were identified by the initial screening of 963 EST clones. Recombinant proteins were overexpressed in the E. coli expression system and purified using Ni-nitrilotriacetic acid-agarose. Purified proteins were analyzed by ELISA., Results and Discussion: Japanese hop pathogenesis-related 1 protein (PR-1) shares 37.0 to 44.4% of amino acid sequence identity with Art v 2, Cuc m 3, and Cyn d 24. Pectin methyl esterase (PME) shows 23.2 to 50.2% of identities to Act d 7, Ole e 11, and Sal k 1. Polygalacturonase (PGs) shows 16.7 to 19.3% of identities to Phl p 13, Cry j 2, Cha o 2, Jun a 2, Pla a 2, and Pla or 2. IgE antibodies from Japanese hop allergy patients' sera recognized PR-1 (3.4%), PME (13.8%), PGs (3.7%), and profilin (13.8%), respectively., Conclusion: Novel allergenic components were identified, even though low IgE reactivity was displayed reflecting the low degree of cross-reactivity with other pollen allergens. We believe that these molecules have worth further studies., (Copyright© Bentham Science Publishers; For any queries, please email at epub@benthamscience.net.)

Allergen extracts are commonly utilized for diagnosis and immunotherapy; however, the stability of protease‑rich extracts is important for a precise diagnosis and treatment efficacy. The present study determines the optimal conditions for the storage of German cockroach allergen extract. Cockroach extracts were reconstituted in four buffers: normal saline (NS), 50% glycerol in NS, 0.3% phenol in NS, or 0.3% phenol and 50% glycerol in NS. The extracts in different buffers were stored either at room temperature (18‑26˚C, RT) or refrigerated (2‑8˚C). Subsequently, the protein concentration and allergen content (Bla g 1 and Bla g 2) in the extracts were examined for the course of one year. Extract potency was estimated by inhibition ELISA. At least 90.5% protein, 94.4% Bla g 1, 65.2% Bla g 2, and 91.4% potency remained after one year when 50% glycerol NS was added to the extract with refrigeration. However, less than 13.7% protein, 17.1% Bla g 1, 0% Bla g 2 and 32.5% potency were maintained after one year when 50% glycerol NS was not added to the extract and was maintained at RT. The addition of 0.3% phenol NS did not show significant effects on extract stability. The addition of 50% glycerol NS and refrigerated storage temperature were found to be important factors for increasing the shelf life of protease‑rich cockroach extract.

Background/aims: Accurate diagnosis and the effects of allergen-specific immunotherapy for pollinosis are greatly dependent on the potency and stability of the extract. This study aimed to examine factors, such as temperature and storage buffer composition, that affect the stability of allergen extracts from pollens of allergenic importance in Korea., Methods: We prepared four pollen allergen extracts from ragweed, mugwort, Japanese hop, and sawtooth oak, which are the most important causes of seasonal rhinitis in Korea. Changes of protein and major allergen concentration were measured over 1 year by Bradford assay, two-site enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis after reconstitution of the lyophilized allergen extract in various buffers and stored at room temperature (RT, 18°C to 26°C) or refrigerated (4°C)., Results: More than 90% of the original protein concentration in all four extracts examined was detected over 1 year when 50% glycerol was added and refrigerated, whereas 57.9% to 94.5% remained in the extracts at RT. The addition of 50% glycerol to the storage buffer was found to prevent protein degradation at RT. Amb a 1, a major allergen of ragweed, was almost completely degraded in 9 weeks at RT when reconstituted in a buffer without 50% glycerol. However, 55.6% to 92.8% of Amb a 1 content was detected after 1 year of incubation at 4°C in all buffer conditions except 0.3% phenol., Conclusion: Addition of 50% glycerol as well as refrigeration was found to be important in increasing the shelf-life of allergen extracts from pollens of allergenic importance.

Purpose: Eperisone is an oral muscle relaxant used in musculoskeletal disorders causing muscle spasm and pain. For more effective pain control, eperisone is usually prescribed together with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). As such, eperisone may have been overlooked as the cause of anaphylaxis compared with NSAIDs. This study aimed to analyze the adverse drug reaction (ADR) reported in Korea and suggest an appropriate diagnostic approach for eperisone-induced anaphylaxis., Methods: We reviewed eperisone-related pharmacovigilance data (Korea Institute of Drug Safety-Korea Adverse Event Reporting System [KIDS-KAERS]) reported in Korea from 2010 to 2015. ADRs with causal relationship were selected. Clinical manifestations, severity, outcomes, and re-exposure information were analyzed. For further investigation, 7-year ADR data reported in a single center were also reviewed. Oral provocation test (OPT), skin prick test (SPT) and basophil activation test (BAT) were performed in this center., Results: During the study period, 207 patients had adverse reactions to eperisone. The most common ADRs were cutaneous hypersensitive reactions (30.4%) such as urticaria, itchiness or angioedema. Fifth common reported ADR was anaphylaxis. There were 35 patients with anaphylaxis, comprising 16.9% of the eperisone-related ADRs. In the single center study, there were 11 patients with eperisone-induced anaphylaxis. All the patients underwent OPT and all the provoked patients showed a positive reaction. Four of the 11 patients with anaphylaxis also underwent SPT and BAT, which were all negative., Conclusions: Incidence of eperisone-induced anaphylaxis calculated from the KIDS-KAERS database was 0.001%. Eperisone can cause hypersensitive reactions, including anaphylaxis, possibly by inducing non-immunoglobulin E-mediated immediate hypersensitivity., Competing Interests: There are no financial or other issues that might lead to conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2019 The Korean Academy of Asthma, Allergy and Clinical Immunology · The Korean Academy of Pediatric Allergy and Respiratory Disease.)

Purpose of Review: Allergy diagnostics and immunotherapeutics in Asia heavily rely on imported products from Western countries, raising concerns about the accuracy and efficacy of these products for the management of Asian allergy patients., Recent Findings: Recent advancements in allergen research have led to the identification and characterization of novel allergens from indigenous Korean species. While some allergens share homology with well-known allergens, others lack counterparts in imported allergen extracts. Classifying regional allergens in Asia into three categories based on their cross-reactivity with imported allergens offers valuable insights. Highly cross-reactive allergens, such as oak allergens Que m 1 from Quercus mongolica and Que ac 1 from Q. acutissima, can be effectively substituted with the imported allergens. Allergens with partial cross-reactivity, like the Asian needle ant allergen Pac c 3 (Antigen 5), permit limited diagnostic value by the currently available products. Unique allergens, including the Japanese hop allergen Hum j 6 (pectin methylesterase inhibitor) and the silkworm pupa allergen Bomb m 4 (30 kDa hemolymph lipoprotein) lack alternatives in the available product list. Greater attention is needed, particularly for species listed as ecologically invasive in Western regions. Additionally, allergens from domestic fruits and vegetables causing pollen food allergy syndrome require characterization for the development of improved diagnostics., (© 2024. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Science+Business Media, LLC, part of Springer Nature.)

Asthma is a persistent inflammatory disease characterized by airway obstruction and hyperresponsiveness in association with airway inflammation. In the current research, we studied the anti-inflammatory and anti-asthmatic effects of tiarellic acid (TA) isolated from Tiarella polyphylla, based on asthmatic parameters, such as immunoglobulin E (IgE) level, cytokine release, eosinophilia, airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR), reactive oxygen species (ROS) and mucus hypersecretion, in an ovalbumin (OVA)-sensitized/challenged mouse model. TA significantly inhibited increases in IgE, levels of ROS and T helper cytokines, such as interleukin (IL)-4, IL-5, TNF-α, and IL-13, in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF), and effectively suppressed airway hyperresponsiveness, eosinophilia, and mucus hypersecretion in the asthmatic mouse model. In addition, we found that administration of TA attenuated ovalbumin-induced increases in NF-κB activity in lungs. The efficacy of TA was comparable to that of montelukast, a currently available anti-asthmatic drug. Our results support the utility of TA as a herbal medicine for asthma treatment and may have application in the development of anti-inflammatory and anti-asthmatic drugs., (Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

We investigated whether Zuonin B exerts immunological effects on RAW264.7 cells. Zuonin B, isolated from flower buds of Daphne genkwa, suppressed the levels of nitric oxide and prostaglandin E(2), as well as proinflammatory cytokines, such as tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin-(IL-) 6, in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated macrophages. Moreover, the compound inhibited cyclooxygenase-2 and inducible nitric oxide synthase expression. Zuonin B attenuated NF-kappaB (NF-κB) activation via suppressing proteolysis of inhibitor kappa B-alpha (IκB-α) and p65 nuclear translocation as well as phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 and c-Jun N-terminal kinase. Additionally, IL-4 and IL-13 production in ConA-induced splenocytes was inhibited by Zuonin B. In conclusion, the anti-inflammatory effects of Zuonin B are attributable to the suppression of proinflammatory cytokines and mediators via blockage of NF-κB and AP-1 activation. Based on these findings, we propose that Zuonin B is potentially an effective functional chemical candidate for the prevention of inflammatory diseases.

The pepper fruit of Capsicum annuum L. is used as a food, spice, and topical medicine. Here, we investigated the effect of a methanolic C. annuum L. extract (CAE) in a mouse model of ovalbumin-induced allergic airway inflammation. Animals were treated with CAE by oral gavage before ovalbumin challenge. After ovalbumin challenge, airway responsiveness to methacholine, influx of inflammatory cells into the lung, cytokine levels in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and lung, nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) activity in lungs, and lung histopathology were assessed. Oral treatment with CAE significantly reduced the pathophysiological signs of allergic airway disease, including increased inflammatory cell recruitment to the airways, airway hyperresponsiveness, and increased levels of T-helper type 2 cytokines. Reactive oxygen species were also decreased in cells from bronchoalveolar lavage fluid. In addition, we found that administration of CAE attenuated ovalbumin-induced increases in NF-κB activity in lungs. Collectively, these results suggest that CAE may be an effective oral treatment for allergic airway inflammation by virtue of its antioxidant activity.

Bronchial asthma is characterized by chronic lung inflammation, airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR), and airway remodeling. Astilbic acid, extracted from the medicinal herb Astilbe chinensis, is used as a headache remedy in traditional medicine and has anti-pyretic and analgesic effects. However, the effect of astilbic acid on asthma remains to be established. In the present study, we therefore examined the effect of astilbic acid in a mouse model in which asthma was established by sensitization and challenge with ovalbumin (OVA). Astilbic acid inhibited OVA-induced AHR to inhaled methacholine and significantly suppressed the levels of T-helper 2-type cytokines (including IL [interleukin]-4, IL-5, and IL-13) and inflammatory cells (including eosinophils) in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid. Histochemical analysis revealed reduced goblet cell hyperplasia and mucus production, as well as attenuated eosinophil-rich leukocyte infiltration, in the astilbic acid-treated group, compared with OVA-challenged mice. Moreover, the compound significantly inhibited synthesis of IL-4-, IL-5-, IL-13-, IL-17-, and eotaxin-encoding mRNA following asthma induction in lung tissue, in addition to suppressing the immunoglobulin E (IgE) response to asthma in both BAL fluid and serum. Our results indicate that astilbic acid has great potential as a therapeutic candidate for the treatment of asthma., (Copyright © 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Aim of the Study: Lilium lancifolium is commonly used to treat bronchitis, pneumonia, etc. In this study, we investigated the anti-inflammatory effects of methanol extracts of the root of Lilium lancifolium (LL extracts) in LPS-stimulated Raw264.7 cells., Material and Methods: Levels of NO, PGE(2) and pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6 and TNF-alpha) in the supernatant fraction were determined using sandwich ELISA. Expression of COX-2 and iNOS, phosphorylation of MAPK subgroups (ERK and JNK), and NF-kappaB activation in extracts were detected via Western blot and immunocytochemistry assays., Results: The LL extract significantly inhibited NO, PGE(2), IL-6 and TNF-alpha production in LPS-stimulated cells, and suppressed iNOS and COX-2 expression. A mechanism-based study showed that phosphorylation of ERK1/2 and JNK and translocation of the NF-kappaB p65 subunit into nuclei were inhibited by the LL extract. Furthermore, interleukin-4 and interleukin-13 production in Con A-induced splenocytes was suppressed., Conclusion: These results indicate that anti-inflammatory effects of methanol extracts from Lilium lancifolium are due to downregulation of iNOS and COX-2 via suppression of NF-kappaB activation and nuclear translocation as well as blocking of ERK and JNK signaling in LPS-stimulated Raw264.7 cells., (Copyright (c) 2010 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Aim of the Study: We investigated the efficacy of Viola mandshurica W. Becker (VM) ethanolic (EtOH) extract in the treatment of bronchial asthma in an ovalbumin (OVA)-induced asthmatic BALB/c mouse model., Materials and Methods: Female BALB/c mice were sensitized with intraperitoneal (i.p.) ovalbumin (OVA) on days 0 and 14, and were next given intranasal OVA on days 28-30. Randomized treatment groups of sensitized mice received VM EtOH extract, dexamethasone, or placebo, orally, from days 28 to 30., Results: VM EtOH extract significantly inhibited increases in total immunoglobulin E (IgE) and cytokines IL-4 and IL-13 levels in serum and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF), and also effectively suppressed airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR), eosinophilia, and mucus hypersecretion, in mice with OVA-induced asthma., Conclusions: The results suggest that VM EtOH extract and allied extracts could be useful herbal medicines for asthma treatment, and that VM may also be a valuable lead material for anti-asthma drug development., (Copyright 2009 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.)

In the present study, we investigated that (-)-aptosimon, isolated from flower buds of Daphne genkwa, inhibited cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and inducible nitric oxide (NO) synthase (iNOS) expression in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW264.7 cells. Similarly, (-)-aptosimon suppressed tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha production. Our results clearly indicated that (-)-aptosimon inhibited LPS-induced nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-kappaB) activation, by preventing degradation of the inhibitor kappa B-alpha (IkappaB-alpha). (-)-Aptosimon also inhibited interleukin-4 (IL-4) and interleukin-13 (IL-13) production in ConA-induced splenocytes. In conclusion, the anti-inflammatory effects of (-)-aptosimon are attributed to the suppression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and mediators by blocking NF-kappaB activation. These data suggest that (-)-aptosimon as a potential therapeutic agent for inflammation-associated disorders.

Asthma is a disease marked by chronic lung inflammation and the number of patients suffering from asthma increases annually. Both beta-sitosterol (BS) and beta-sitosterol glucoside exist in a variety of plants and have anti-tumor, anti-microbial, and immunomodulatory activities. However, the precise role of BS and beta-sitosterol glucoside in asthma has not been well understood. The aim of this study was to investigate the inhibitory effects of BS and lactose-BS (L-BS) on the pathophysiological process in ovalbumin-induced asthmatic mice. The total cells and eosinophils in the bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid markedly decreased (p<0.05) after L-BS or BS administration (1 mg/kg; i.p.), and the ROS production also decreased in comparison to the asthma control. Histopathological features were detected by performing histochemistry, including H&E and alcian blue & P.A.S staining. Both L-BS and BS mitigated the inflammation by eosinophil infiltration and mucus hypersecretion by goblet hyperplasia. These effects of L-BS were superior to those of BS. L-BS and BS inhibited the increased mRNA and protein expression of IL-4 and IL-5 in the lung tissue and BAL fluid, respectively. The IgE concentration in the BAL fluid and serum was measured by performing ELISA and the ovalbumin-specific IgE in the BAL fluid was uniquely inhibited by L-BS (p<0.05). The splenocytes were isolated from the normal and asthmatic mice and incubated in the absence and presence of 100 microg/ml ovalbumin, respectively. L-BS blocked the survival rate of the splenocytes of the mice (p<0.01). This finding indicates the possibility of L-BS and BS as potential therapeutic molecules in asthma and may contribute to the need to improve current therapeutic drugs.

Background and objectives: Asthma is a chronic airway inflammatory disease. Viola odorata has been traditionally used to treat inflammatory diseases. This study was conducted to explore the antiinflammatory effects of V. odorata aqueous extract on a murine model of asthma. Methods: Forty-eight Balb/c female mice were divided into six groups of eight animals. The healthy controls received distilled water and other groups became asthmatic using ovalbumin. Then, one group received dexamethasone, and the extract (100, 200, and 400 mg/kg) was administered to three groups for a week. Subsequently, the number of eosinophils, and the levels of interleukins 4, 5, and 13 were measured in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) samples. Histopathological changes were analyzed in lung tissues. Results: Eosinophils count and the levels of interleukins 4, 5, and 13 in BALF specimens significantly reduced. Hyperplasia of goblet cells, lymphoid tissue hyperplasia, and peribronchial and perivascular inflammations decreased in the extract-treated mice. The effects of V. odorata aqueous extract on all parameters were comparable with dexamethasone. Conclusion: The present study is the first report of anti-inflammatory activities of V. odorata aqueous extract in a mouse model of allergic asthma. Therefore, these data may suggest V. odorata as a promising drug to treat asthma-induced inflammation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mast cells are well known as effector cells in a variety of inflammatory diseases, including asthma as well as other allergic disorders. The precise role of 9-cis retinoic acid (9CRA) in mast cells is not understood despite the accepted fact that 9CRA regulates inflammatory responses and neutrophil differentiation. In this study, we investigated the effects of 9CRA on the expression of CC chemokine receptors in the human mast cell line, HMC-1. 9CRA selectively inhibits the CCR2 mRNA level and increases the CCR3 mRNA level in both a time and dose dependent manner. Other CC chemokine receptors, including CCR1, CCR4 and CCR5 are not altered by treatment with 9CRA. Both TNF-alpha and LPS, known pro-inflammatory molecules, have no effect on mRNA levels of CC chemokine receptors. For surface expression, 9CRA decreased the CCR2 level but had no effect on the CCR3 level. 9CRA inhibited the chemotactic activity in response to the CCR2-dependent chemokine, MCP-1/CCL2 but not in response to CCR3-specific chemokine, eotaxin/CCL11. 9CRA decreased spontaneous homotype clustering. Therefore, our results demonstrate that 9CRA differentially decreases both CCR2 expression and chemotactic ability of HMC-1 cells, and may regulate the inflammatory effects of mast cells.

Background: Tiarella polyphylla D. Don has been traditionally used to cure asthma and skin eruptions. However, the sequence and the structure of the mitogenome of T. polyphylla remained elusive, limiting the genomic and evolution analysis based on the mitogenome. Results: Using a combination of Illumina and Nanopore sequencing reads, we de novo assembled the complete mitogenome of T. polyphylla. In addition to unveiling the major configuration of the T. polyphylla mitogenome was three circular chromosomes with lengths of 430,435 bp, 126,943 bp, and 55,269 bp, we revealed five (R01-R05) and one (R06) repetitive sequence could mediate the intra- and inter-chromosomal recombination, respectively. Furthermore, we identified 208 short and 25 long tandem segments, seven cp-derived mtDNAs, 106 segments of mtDNAs transferred to the nuclear genome, and 653 predicted RNA editing sites. Based on the sequence of the mitogenomes, we obtained the resolved phylogeny of the seven Saxifragales species. Conclusions: These results presented the mitogenome features and expanded its potential applications in phylogenetics, species identification, and cytoplasmic male sterility (CMS) in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phlomoides umbrosa Turczaninow (PU), a traditional Korean medicinal herb, exhibits osteogenic and anti-inflammatory effects. This research explored the effect of PU extracts on hyperimmune responses within the respiratory tract using lipopolysaccharide-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells and an ovalbumin-induced hyper-responsiveness model. The inflammatory cytokines, protein expression linked to airway inflammation, antioxidant enzyme activity, histopathological observation, and expectorant activity were measured. The results revealed that PU treatment led to a concentration-dependent reduction in Th2 cytokines and the expression of nuclear factor (NF)-κB, phosphatase-tensin homolog, mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS). Simultaneously, antioxidant enzyme activity increased. Furthermore, PU exhibited substantial enhancements in lung tissue condition and expectorant activity relative to the allergic rhinitis-induced group. These findings indicate the potential of PU to mitigate airway inflammation and excessive mucus production by suppressing NF-κB, MAPK, and iNOS pathways. Consequently, PU emerges as a promising anti-inflammatory agent for respiratory tract applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chronic oral inflammation and biofilm-mediated infections drive diseases such as dental caries and periodontitis. This study investigated the anti-inflammatory and antibacterial potential of an ethanol extract from Astilbe chinensis inflorescence (GA-13-6) as a prominent candidate for natural complex substances (NCS) with therapeutic potential. In LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages, GA-13-6 significantly suppressed proinflammatory mediators, including interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor (TNF), and nitric oxide (NO), surpassing purified astilbin, a known bioactive compound found in A. chinensis. Furthermore, GA-13-6 downregulated the expression of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX2) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), indicating an inhibitory effect on the inflammatory cascade. Remarkably, GA-13-6 exhibited selective antibacterial activity against Streptococcus mutans, Streptococcus sanguinis, and Porphyromonas gingivalis, key players in dental caries and periodontitis, respectively. These findings suggest that complex GA-13-6 holds the potential for the treatment or prevention of periodontal and dental diseases, as well as various other inflammation-related conditions, while averting the induction of antibiotic resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Few studies have investigated optimal storage conditions or expiration dates for sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) formulations prepared from glycerinated allergen extracts., Hypothesis/objectives: The objective of this study was to compare concentrations of short ragweed major allergen (Amb a 1) and total protein in SLIT formulations stored at two different temperatures. It was hypothesised that protein concentrations would show greater decline over time in a formulation stored at room temperature (RT) than in one stored under refrigeration., Materials and Methods: Two SLIT samples containing equal volumes of 20,000 PNU Amb a 1 extract were prepared and stored at refrigerated cold (CT) (2-8°C) or RT (20-24°C) for 140 days. Changes in total protein and major allergen concentration and composition were measured by Bradford assay, two-site enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and SDS-PAGE. Presence of Amb a 1 was confirmed with Western immunoblot. Data were analysed using an analysis of covariance, with p < 0.05 considered significant., Results: SDS-PAGE showed compositional changes in a ~26-30 kDa protein band under RT and not CT storage. The Amb a 1 concentration of the RT SLIT sample declined significantly over time, compared to that of the CT SLIT sample (F (1,8) = 47.69, p < 0.0001). There was no significant difference in total protein concentration over time between groups (F (1,8) = 1.79, p = 0.22)., Conclusions and Clinical Relevance: These results demonstrate that storage of glycerinated SLIT formulations in refrigerated CT preserved the highest concentration of the specific allergen Amb a 1, suggesting that SLIT formulations containing short ragweed should be stored under refrigeration., (© 2024 ESVD and ACVD.)

Trichospira verticillata is an annual herb that belongs to the family Asteraceae. Trichospira verticillata extract (TVE) elicits anti‐plasmodial activity; however, there has been no detailed report about its anti‐inflammatory effects and molecular mechanisms. In addition, herbal plants exhibit anti‐inflammatory effects by suppressing the NLRP3 inflammasome. Therefore, the primary goal of this study was to examine the effects of TVE on NLRP3 inflammasome activation by measuring interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β) secretion. We treated lipopolysaccharides (LPS)‐primed J774A.1 and THP‐1 cells with TVE, which attenuated NLRP3 inflammasome activation. Notably, TVE did not affect nuclear factor‐kappa B (NF‐κB) signalling or intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and potassium efflux, suggesting that it inactivates the NLRP3 inflammasome via other mechanisms. Moreover, TVE suppressed the formation of apoptosis‐associated speck‐like protein (ASC) speck and oligomerization. Immunoprecipitation data revealed that TVE reduced the binding of NLRP3 to NIMA‐related kinase 7 (NEK7), resulting in reduced ASC oligomerization and speck formation. Moreover, TVE alleviated neutrophilic asthma (NA) symptoms in mice. This study demonstrates that TVE modulates the binding of NLPR3 to NEK7, thereby reporting novel insights into the mechanism by which TVE inhibits NLRP3 inflammasome. These findings suggest TVE as a potential therapeutic of NLRP3 inflammasome‐mediated diseases, particularly NA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil erosion is a severe problem in Taiwan due to the steep terrain, fragile geology, and extreme climatic events resulting from global warming. Due to the rapidly changing hydrological conditions affecting the locations and the amount of transported sand and fine particles, timely impact evaluation and riverine dust control are difficult, particularly when resources are limited. To comprehend the impact of desertification in estuarine areas on the variation of air pollutant concentrations, this study utilized remote sensing technology coupled with an air pollutant dispersion model to determine the unit contribution of potential pollution sources and quantify the effect of riverine dust on air quality. The images of the downstream area of the Beinan River basin captured by Formosat-2 in May 2006 were used to analyze land use and land cover (LULC) composition. Subsequently, the diffusion model ISCST-3 based on Gaussian distribution was utilized to simulate the transport of PM across the study area. Finally, a mixed-integer programming model was developed to optimize resource allocation for dust control. Results reveal that sand deposition in specific river sections significantly influences regional air quality, owing to the unique local topography and wind field conditions. The present optimal plan model for regional air quality control further showed that after implementing engineering measures including water cover, revegetation, armouring cover, and revegetation, total PM concentrations would be reduced by 51%. The contribution equivalent calculation, using the air pollution diffusion model, was effectively integrated into the optimization model to formulate a plan for reducing riverine dust with limited resources based on air quality requirements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Species of the Violaceae family, especially those of the genus Viola, are widely used in traditional medicine to treat various diseases. Their use is due to a large number of secondary metabolites present in plants of this family that present anticancer, antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, insecticidal and cytotoxic activities, among other properties. This review describes the chemical constituents, traditional uses and biological activities reported for the Violaceae family to date. The literature reports seven hundred and sixty-two secondary metabolites in the Violaceae family, which were classified into seven specific organic functional classes (flavonoids, terpenoids, sterols, alkaloids, phenylpropanoids, essential oils, cyclotide peptides), and one nonspecific class (miscellaneous compounds). This review presents the chemical structures, names, and corresponding plant sources of these compounds along with their biological activities. The rich profile of biologically active compounds isolated from Violaceae species might be a valuable resource for inspiring the rational development of novel therapeutic drugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Upper respiratory tract infection (URTI), one of the most common respiratory diseases, has a high annual incidence. Trollius chinensis capsule has been used to treat URTI in China. However, the underlying-mechanisms remain unclear., Methods: Network pharmacology was used to explore the potential mechanism of action of Trollius chinensis capsule in URTI treatment. The active compounds in Trollius chinensis were obtained from the TCMSP, SymMap, and ETCM databases. The TCMSP, PubChem, and SwissTargetPrediction databases were used to predict potential targets of Trollius chinensis. URTI-associated targets were gathered from GeneCards and DisGeNET databases. The key targets and signaling pathways associated with URTI were selected by network topology, GO, and KEGG pathway enrichment analysis. Molecular docking was used to verify the binding activity between active compounds and key targets., Results: Quercetin, pectolinarigenin, beta-sitosterol, acacetin and cirsimaritin are major active compounds in Trollius chinensis capsule. Eighty one candidate therapeutic targets were confirmed to be involved in protection of Trollius chinensis capsule against URTI. Among them, 7 key targets (TP53, IL6, AKT1, CASP3, CXCL8, MMP9, and EGFR) were verified to have good binding affinities to the main active compounds. Furthermore, enrichment analyses suggested that inflammatory response, virus infection and oxidative stress related biological processes and pathways were possibly the potential mechanism., Conclusion: Overall, the present study clarified that quercetin, pectolinarigenin, beta-sitosterol, acacetin and cirsimaritin are proved to be the main effective compounds of Trollius chinensis capsule treating URTI, possibly by acting on the targets of IL6, AKT1, CASP3, CXCL8, MMP9 and EGFR to play anti-infectious, anti-viral, and anti-oxidative effects. This study provides a new understanding of the active compounds and mechanisms of Trollius chinensis capsule in URTI treatment from the perspective of network pharmacology., Competing Interests: The authors have no conflicts of interest to disclose., (Copyright © 2024 the Author(s). Published by Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc.)

Background: In birch‐dominated areas, allergies to pollen from trees of the order Fagales are considered to be initiated by the major birch pollen allergen Bet v 1. However, the sensitizing activity of Bet v 1‐homologs in Fagales pollen might be underestimated. Allergen‐specific T‐cells are crucial in the sensitization process. The T‐cell response to major allergens from alder, hazel, oak, hornbeam, chestnut, beech, and chestnut pollen has not yet been analyzed. Here, we characterized the cellular cross‐reactivity of major allergens in Fagales pollen with Bet v 1. Methods: T‐cell‐lines (TCL) were established from allergic individuals with Aln g 1, Car b 1, Ost c 1, Cor a 1, Fag s 1, Cas s 1, and Que a 1, and tested for reactivity with Bet v 1 and synthetic overlapping 12‐mer peptides representing its primary sequence. Aln g 1‐specific TCL was additionally tested with Aln g 1‐derived peptides and all allergens. IgE‐competition experiments with Aln g 1 and Bet v 1 were performed. Results: T‐cell‐lines initiated with Fagales pollen allergens varied strongly in their reactivity with Bet v 1 and by the majority responded stronger to the original stimulus. Cross‐reactivity was mostly restricted to the epitope Bet v 1142–153. No distinct cross‐reactivity of Aln g 1‐specific T‐cells with Bet v 1 was detected. Among 22 T‐cell epitopes, Aln g 1 contained two immunodominant epitopes. Bet v 1 inhibited IgE‐binding to Aln g 1 less potently than Aln g 1 itself. Conclusion: The cellular cross‐reactivity of major Fagales pollen allergens with Bet v 1 was unincisive, particularly for Aln g 1, most akin to Bet v 1. Our results indicate that humoral and cellular responses to these allergens are not predominantly based on cross‐reactivity with the major birch pollen allergen but suggest a Bet v 1‐independent sensitization in individuals from birch tree‐dominated areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The thermal effects on polyphenol oxidase (PPO) and peroxidase (POD) inactivation kinetics of the lily bulb as well as on the functional properties of its flours were investigated. The inactivation kinetics of PPO and POD followed the first-order models. Estimated activation energies and ZT values of PPO and POD inactivation process were 108.30, 122.84 kJ mol−1 and 19.65, 23.36 °C, respectively. HunterLab results showed that blanching treatment could lower the browning of the lily bulb at 95 °C or 100 ºC. Swelling power (SP) and water solubility index (WSI) of lily bulb flours with or without blanching increased with the test temperature increasing from 60 °C to 90 °C and this trend was more pronounced for non-treatment (NT) samples. Rising blanching temperature caused increase in SP values of lily bulb flours within the test temperature range. However, the WSI of the blanched lily bulb flours was significantly lower than that of non-treated ones at the same test temperature, ranging from 70 °C to 90 °C. Rapid visco-analyzer (RVA) results revealed that blanching caused significant increases in peak viscosity, trough viscosity, final viscosity, and setback values of lily bulb flours while led to decrease in enthalpy values. Compared with non-treated flour samples, the peak time of blanched lily bulb flours was significantly longer and decreased with the increase in blanching temperature. The behavior of lily bulb flour paste changed from near-Newtonian fluid to highly non-Newtonian fluid with increasing blanching temperature, which could be well described by the Herschel-Bulkley rheological model. Blanching also caused an increase in storage modulus and loss modulus of lily bulb flours. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The genus Viola belongs to the family Violaceae, and the plants from this genus are essential folk herb medicine extensively used in many areas. The plants from the genus Viola are used to treat various diseases and exert a significant role in protecting people's health. This review summarized the genus Viola plants' phytochemistry, pharmacology, and quality control methods. Key findings: The information on chemical constituents and pharmacological effects of the genus Viola was obtained by searching the Web of Science, Pubmed, CNKI, and other databases. A total of 208 valuable articles were selected and analyzed in this review. The main chemical components of plants from the genus Viola consist of flavonoids, coumarins, alkaloids, lignans, sesquiterpenes, cyclotides, etc. The active chemical components of medicinal plants from this genus exert antibacterial, antiviral, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, neuroprotective, hepatoprotective activities, and so on. The quality control of these plants is not sufficient and needs further research. Summary: The chemical constituents, pharmacological effects, and quality control of plants from the genus Viola were systematically summarized in this paper, and this review provides a literature basis for the further research of plants from this genus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To investigate the effects of β-sitosterol (B-SIT) and the underlying mechanisms of action in an ovalbumin-induced rat model of asthma. The pathological and morphological changes in lung and tracheal tissues were observed by H&E, PAS, and Masson's staining. The levels of IgE, TNF-α, and IFN-γ in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and those of IL-6, TGF-β1, and IL-10 in serum were measured by ELISA. The relative expression levels of IL-5, IL-13, IL-21, CD11c, CD80, and CD86 mRNA in lung tissue were examined by RT-qPCR. Flow cytometry was performed to assess the levels of immune cells, including macrophages and neutrophils in spleen tissue and Th cells, Tc cells, NK cells, and DCs in peripheral blood. The protein expression levels of CD68, MPO, CD11c, CD80, and CD86 were detected by western blotting or immunohistochemistry. B-SIT improved the injury in OVA-induced pathology, decreased the levels of inflammatory factors of IgE, TNF-α, IL-6, TGF-β1, IL-5, IL-13, and IL-21 and increased the levels of IFN-γ and IL-10. In addition, B-SIT decreased the number of macrophages and neutrophils and the relative expression levels of CD68 and MPO in the spleen. Moreover, B-SIT increased the number of Th cells, Tc cells, NK cells, and DCs in peripheral blood and upregulated the levels of CD11c, CD80, and CD86 in the spleen and lung. B-SIT improved symptoms in a rat model of asthma likely via the inhibition of inflammation by regulating dendritic cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Focal cerebral ischemia followed by reperfusion causes ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) brain injury. I/R injury is a complex pathophysiological process involving inflammation and apoptosis in neurons. Previous studies reported the anti-inflammatory traits of the family Violaceae. We aimed to evaluate the effects of Viola spathulata pre-treatment on infarct volume (IV), neurological deficit score (NDS) and alterations in mRNA level of cyclooxygenase 2 (COX2) and caspase 3 (CASP3) in a rat middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) model. Methods: Thirty-three male Wistar rats were randomly distributed in 4 groups: normal control, MCAO control, MCAO + 5 mg/kg V. spathulata and MCAO + 10 mg/kg V. spathulata. Two doses of V. spathulata extracts were injected intraperitoneally for 7 days before the onset of ischemia. Finally, IV, NDS and mRNA expression of CASP3 and COX2 genes were assessed 24h after reperfusion. Results: IV and NDS in MCAO rats were remarkably higher compared with normal control rats and pre-treatment with V. spathulata extracts markedly reduced IV and NDS in the core, penumbra and subcortical regions of MCAO rats. Also, the level of COX2 and CASP3 mRNA was higher in the MCAO control group relative to normal control. Pre-treatment with V. spathulata extracts markedly reduced CASP3 mRNA relative to MCAO rats. Conclusion: It was found that V. spathulata might reduce ischemic damage in the brain of MCAO rats partly by decreasing apoptotic effects of CASP3. Further research is recommended to investigate signaling pathways involved in apoptosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Trachyspermum ammi is a common spice with vital medicinal properties used in Ayurveda to treat many ailments. Furthermore, natural Honey is said to have high levels of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. While the combination of both T. ammi and Honey is unexplored in anti-atherosclerotic activity. Materials and Methods: Assays guided isolation of carotenoids, phenolics, and tannins were performed by methanol and aqueous extraction from T. ammi seed powder and honey mixture. Phytochemical screening for antioxidant activity (superoxide radical scavenging activity, nitric oxide radical scavenging activity, and 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl scavenging activity) and antilipidemic activity by inhibition of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) oxidation were investigated. Sample showing highest activity with lowest IC50 value from antioxidant and antilipidemic activity was further evaluated on RAW 264.7, THP-1 cells for foam cell inhibition activity, anti-proliferation, antiapoptotic activity, and nitric oxide assay. The sample was characterized using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Results: Out of the phytochemicals screened, tannin methanol extract (TME) showed the highest antioxidant activity with IC50 value having 7.11 μg/mL in superoxide scavenging assay, the IC50 value of 1.46 μg/mL by nitric oxide scavenging assay, and followed by IC50 value of 20.83 μg/mL in 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl activity. The results showed that it also efficiently inhibited LDL oxidation at 240 μg/mL (71.29% at 5 h)., thus inhibiting foam cell development, preventing proliferation, apoptosis, and nitrate production in cultured RAW 264.7 and THP-1 cells. HPLC analysis showed the presence of tannin in the extract. TME was characterized in GC-MS, which showed 13 prominent compounds. Conclusion: The scientific evidence in the present study showed that the TME from T. ammi seed powder and honey act as an antioxidant and antiatherogenic properties in inhibiting foam cell formation. Hence, this phytochemical can be used for the treatment of atherosclerosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Lilii Bulbus (LB), a lung-moistening herbal medicine, has been used to treat the symptoms of pulmonary fibrosis, including dry cough and dyspnea. In this study, we investigated whether LB water extract (LIB) has antifibrotic effects in a mouse model of bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis. Materials and Methods: The effects of LIB and its mechanisms of action were investigated in a mouse model of bleomycin-induced (2 mg/kg, intratracheal) pulmonary fibrosis. LIB (30, 100, and 300 mg/kg) was administered orally twice daily for 10 days after induction. Changes in body weight, lung histology, inflammatory cells in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF), and the levels of transforming growth factor (TGF)-β, α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), and proinflammatory cytokines were evaluated. Results: LIB treatment decreased histological fibrotic change according to Ashcroft score, inflammatory cells, including total cells, macrophages, inflammatory cytokines (tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin-6) in BALF, and TGF-β and α-SMA production in lung tissue. Conclusion: LIB exerted antifibrotic effects in a mouse model of bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis by inhibiting inflammatory reactions and fibrotic mediators including TGF-β and α-SMA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Polyphenols have the potential to reduce the risk of many metabolic disorders. Lily bulbs are rich in polyphenols; however, their effects on lipid metabolism remain unclear. This study aimed to explore the effects of lily bulbs' polyphenols (LBPs) on oxidative stress and lipid metabolism. RESULTS: A total of 14 polyphenolic compounds in LBPs were identified by high‐performance liquid chromatography equipped with diode‐array detection mass spectrometry. Total phenolic compound in LBPs was 53.76 ± 1.12 g kg−1 dry weight. In cellular experiments, LBPs attenuated the disruption of mitochondrial membrane potential, impeded reactive oxygen species production, alleviated oxidative stress, and reduced lipid accumulation in oleic acid induced HepG2 cells. In in vivo studies, LBPs significantly inhibited body weight gain, reduced lipid levels in serum and liver, and improved oxidative damage in a dose‐dependent manner in mice fed a high‐fat diet. Moreover, LBPs ameliorated hepatic steatosis and suppressed the expression of hepatic‐lipogenesis‐related genes (SREBP‐1c, FAS, ACC1, and SCD‐1) and promoted lipolysis genes (SRB1 and HL) and lipid oxidation genes (PPARα and CPT‐1) in mice fed a high‐fat diet. CONCLUSION: It was concluded that LBPs are a potential complementary therapeutic alternative in the development of functional foods to curb obesity and obesity‐related diseases, such as metabolic syndrome. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Elevated inflammatory signaling has been shown to play an important role in diabetic kidney disease (DKD). We previously developed a new anti-inflammatory compound LG4. In the present study, we have tested the hypothesis that LG4 could prevent DKD by suppressing inflammation and identified the underlying mechanism. Methods: Streptozotocin-induced type 1 diabetic mice were used to develop DKD and evaluate the effects of LG4 against DKD. To identify the potential targets of LG4, biotin-linked LG4 was synthesized and subjected to proteome microarray screening. The cellular mechanism of LG4 was investigated in HG-challenged SV40MES13 cells. Results: Although LG4 treatment had no effect on the body weight and blood glucose levels, it remarkably reversed the hyperglycemia-induced pathological changes and fibrosis in the kidneys of T1DM mice. Importantly, hyperglycemia-induced renal inflammation evidenced by NF-κB activation and TNFα and IL-6 overexpression was greatly ameliorated with LG4 treatment. Proteosome microarray screening revealed that JNK and ERK were the direct binding proteins of LG4. LG4 significantly reduced HG-induced JNK and ERK phosphorylation and subsequent NF-κB activation in vivo and in vitro. In addition, LG4 did not show further anti-inflammatory effect in HG-challenged mesangial cells with the presence of JNK or ERK inhibitor. Conclusion: LG4 showed renoprotective activity through inhibiting ERK/JNK-mediated inflammation in diabetic mice, indicating that LG4 may be a therapeutic agent for DKD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Tinospora cordifolia (Willd).Miers is a perennial climbing medicinal shrub that has been traditionally used for the treatment of chronic inflammatory ailments. Our previous pre- clinical studies on anti-inflammatory effects, proved that the chloroform extract of T. cordifolia (CETC) suppressed the LPS induced up-regulation of pro-inflammatory biomarkers, hence, further follow up study was carried out to evaluate whether CETC can exhibit a protective effect against LPS induced lethal endotoxemia in vivo and also to analyze the impact of CETC pre-treatment on the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines in vitro by THP-1 cells. Methods: To corroborate our previous preclinical studies on inflammation, we investigated the mechanism of the anti-inflammatory effect of T. cordifolia on THP-cells which were pre-incubated with CETC (30 min) and stimulated subsequently with LPS (1 μg/ml) for 20 h. Levels as well as gene expressions of various cytokines were compared with that of LPS alone incubated cells. Alongside, in vivo oral anti-inflammatory efficacy against LPS induced endotoxemia study was effectuated, wherein rats were administered with CETC 48, 24, 12 and 1 h prior to the injection of LPS and the survival of rats were monitored upto 10 days. Cytokine levels were quantified by ELISA. Nitrite levels were measured using Griess reagent. Expression of pro-inflammatory proteins was inspected in rat tissues by histochemical and immuno -histochemical examinations. Results: CETC was able to down-regulate the up-regulation of pro-inflammatory biomarkers in THP-1 macrophages though blockade of NF-κB nuclear translocation and could improve the survival rate during endotoxemic episodes with a marked suppression of the tissue expression of pro-inflammatory proteins. Conclusion: These findings concomitantly reveal the anti-inflammatory mechanism of CETC and support us to move forward for the development of drugs against disorders resulting from deregulated immune reactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adequate nutrition intake is one of main factors to strengthen immunity. Traditional and cultural practices of food consumption involve use of several spices in limited quantities as part of food. Spices have offered versatile biological effects due to presence of valuable biochemicals. The aim of the present paper is to review published scientific evidence on potential role of spices in offering innate and adaptive immunity to human body. It has been demonstrated that, turmeric, one of the widely used spices, acts as an anti-viral agent through inhibition of viral entry into cells, suppression of viral replication and modulation of cytokines. A field study revealed that nations with higher consumption of spices have shown lesser COVID-19 cases and higher recovery rates. Further, spices also have shown to possess antioxidant activity superior or equivalent to ascorbic acid and are known to regulate inflammation processes. Evidence generated from the published literature is compelling to arrive at a conclusion that consumption of spices might improve immunity there by offering protection against various diseases including COVID-19. It is also noted that there are lesser number of human clinical trials in this area which warrants immediate attention to provide scientific evidence to immunity offered by spices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Allergic asthma is a multifactorial airway disease characterised by chronic lung inflammation and airway remodelling. The histamine H4 receptor involved in the chemotaxis of leukocytes and mast cells to the site of inflammation is suggested to be a potential drug target for allergy and asthma. In this study we examined the effect of Compound A, N-(2-Aminoethyl)-5-chloro-1H-indol-2-carboxamide a H4 receptor antagonist in allergic asthma mice model. Objective: To investigate the anti-asthmatic effect of compound A in in vivo, airway inflammation in ovalbumin (OVA) induced allergic asthma mouse model was used. Methodology: Allergic asthma was induced in Balb/c mice using ovalbumin. BAL fluid was examined for the level of IgE, IL-4, IL-5, IL-13 and IL-17 using ELISA. Furthermore, infiltration of leucocytes by histopathology and effect of compound A on signalling molecules were examined in lung tissue. Results: In mice pre-treatment with compound A (10 mg/kg, 20 mg/kg, 30 mg/kg) at different concentrations markedly reduced the levels of IgE, Th2 cytokine IL-4, IL-5, IL-13 and Th17 cytokine IL-17 in BAL fluid. Histopathological examination of lung tissue showed that compound A was able to reduce the level of inflammatory infiltrates. Furthermore, lung tissue from Compound A treated group shown to down-regulate the levels of signalling molecules such as ERK1/2, Akt, SAPK/JNK and NF-κB compared to OVA treated group. Discussion and conclusion: Taken together our data demonstrates that compound A has shown to block the H4R-mediated allergic inflammation in this allergic asthma mice model and may be used as a molecule to study the function of H4R. Abbreviations: Compound A, N-(2-Aminoethyl)-5-chloro-1H-indol-2-carboxamide; JNJ7777120, 1-[(5-chloro-1H-indol-2-yl)carbonyl]-4-methylpiperazine; H4R: Histamine 4 Receptor; AHR: Airway hyper responsiveness [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Here, we investigated the effects of fermented Chenopodium album L. (FCAL) on growth performance, apparent total tract nutrient digestibility, serum immunity, carcase characteristics and meat quality of broilers. Arbour Acres broilers (160, 1-d-old) were randomly allocated into four treatment groups with five replicates of eight birds each. The birds were fed a corn–soybean meal basal diet supplemented with 0 (control [CON]), 2, 4 and 8 g/kg FCAL. During the starter period (days 1–21), 4 and 8 g/kg FCAL significantly increased the average daily gain (ADG), apparent digestibility of dry matter (DM), crude protein (CP) and ether extract (EE), moreover; 8 g/kg FCAL significantly decreased the feed conversion ratio (FCR). During the finisher period (days 22–42), 2 g/kg FCAL significantly increased ADG and apparent digestibility of DM, CP and EE but significantly decreased FCR. During the whole period (days 1–42), dietary supplementation of 4 and 8 g/kg FCAL significantly increased ADG. Compared with the CON group, in the FCAL groups, the serum interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-8 levels were lower, while insulin-like growth factor-1, immunoglobulin (Ig) A (IgA) and IgM levels were higher. The serum IL-10 content was lower in the 2 and 4 g/kg FCAL groups. The breast muscle percentage significantly increased with 8 g/kg FCAL. FCAL significantly decreased muscle drip loss (breast), shear force (breast), water loss rate and lightness (leg). FCAL had positive effects on growth, nutrient digestibility, immunity, carcase characteristics and meat quality of broilers, thus it could be a reliable and phytogenic feed additive for promoting growth and maintaining health of broilers. Fermented Chenopodium album L. (FCAL) can improve growth performance and apparent nutrient digestibility of broilers. FCAL can promote immune responses and enhance carcase characteristics and meat quality of broilers. FCAL could be a reliable and potential phytogenic feed additive to promote growth and maintain the health of broilers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]