Showing papers in "China journal of Chinese materia medica in 2005"

[Studies of commonly used traditional medicine-ginger].

Abstract: To review the chemical, pharmacological, studies on ginger (Zingiber officinale) in the last ten years, and also its processing history and clinical uses. Gingerols and related compounds in ginger have many pharmacological activities. Chemical studies should be given sufficiently emphasis, and advances of the chemical study will promote the other related researches to develop in depth.

Study of the effect of crocin on rat experimental hyperlipemia and the underlying mechanisms

Abstract: Objective To study the effect of crocin on rat experimental hyperlipemia and its mechanisms Method Hyperlipemia model was established by feeding heavy cholesterol for 2 months and the effect of crocin on blood lipid in experimental hyperlipemia rats was observed Aortic smooth muscle cells were cultured in different culture media and proliferation was measured by MTT assay Western blotting was used to detect the effect of crocin on phosphorylation of p38 MAPK Result Crocin not only decreased greatly the content of cholesterol, triglyceride and density lipoprotein in blood, but also increased the content of high density lipoprotein In addition, the proliferation of smooth muscle cells and the activation of p38MAPK were inhibited by Crocin Conclusion Crocin prevents atherosclerosis in hyperlipemia, which may be mediated by the inhibition of both proliferation of smooth muscle cells and activation of p38MAPK

Study on chemical constituents in herbs of Anoectochilus roxburghii II

Abstract: Objective To study the chemical constituents of Anoectochilus roxburghii. Method Silica gel and sephadex LH-20 column chromotography were used in the isolation from the ethanol extracts of the whole plant, the compounds were determined on the basis of various modern spectroscopic analysis and physical constants. Result Five compounds were isolated from the CHCl3 soluble portion, identified as p-Hydroxybenzaldehyde (I), ferulic acid (II), quercetin (III), daucosterol (IV), cirsilineol (V). Conclusion All these compounds were isolated from the plant for the first time, compound V was isolated from the Orchid Family for the first time, the other compounds were isolated from this genus for the first time.

Effects of ganoderma lucidum polysaccharides on serum lipids and lipoperoxidation in experimental hyperlipidemic rats

Abstract: OBJECTIVE To investigate the effect of ganoderma lucidum polysaccharides on blood lipid and lipoperoxidation from the experimental hyperlipidemic rats. METHOD 50 rats were randomly divided into normal group, hyperlipidemia control group, experimental group 1, 2 and 3 in which the rats were treated with ganoderma lucidum polysaccharides at dosages of 200 mg x kg(-1) and 400 mg x kg(-1) and 800 mg x kg(-1) respectively. Apart from the rats in control group, all the rats in other groups were fed with high fat forage for 30 days. The blood was collected from the tails of rats for measuring the serum TC, TG, HDL-C, LDL-C, GSH-Px, SOD and LPO. RESULT Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharides could significantly decrease the serum contents of TC, TG, LDL-c in the experimental hyperlipidemic rats (P < 0.01), and markedly increase the level of serum HDL-C (P < 0.05), Mean Level of blood LPO in the experimental groups treated by ganoderma lacidum polysaccharides at different dosages were much lower than that in hyper lipidema group, and the GSH-Px and SOD activities of blood in the group of ganoderma were much higher than those in hyperlipidema group. CONCLUSION Ganoderma can regulate lipid metabolism, enhance the antioxidation and reduce the lipid peroxidation in the rats with hyperlipidemia.

Effects of four species of endophytic fungi on the growth and polysaccharide and alkaloid contents of Dendrobium nobile

Abstract: OBJECTIVE: To study the effects of four species of endophytic fungi on the growth and polysaccharide and alkaloid contents of cultured Dendrobium nobile. METHOD: Each fungal strain was cultured together with D. nobile, and the plant weight as well as the polysaccharide and alkaloid contents were measured. RESULT: Compared with the control group, Mycena sp. (MF23) was found to decrease the fresh weight of D. nobile by 24.9% (P < 0.01). All four species of fungi have no effect on the dry weight of this plant. On the other hand, Epulorhiza sp. (MF18) and MF23 could increase the percent of dry weight of seedlings (P < 0.05). Epulorhiza sp. (MF15) and MF24 increased the number of aerial roots by 4.25 times and 4.14 times respectively (P < 0.01). MF23 decreased the numbers of basal roots by 46.5% (P < 0.01). MF15, MF18, MF23 and MF24 were shown to increase the content of polysacchride by 153.4%, 52.1%, 18.5% and 76.7%, respectively. MF23 also increased the content of total alkaloid by 18.3%. CONCLUSION: Endophytic fungi cultured together with D. nobile could affect the growth of this plant; they also increase total alkaloid and polysaccharide contents.

Effects of Epimedium pubescens icariine on proliferation and differentiation of human osteoblasts

Abstract: Objective To study the effects of epimedium pubescens icariine on the proliferation and differentiation of human osteoblasts. Method Human osteoblasts were obtained by inducting human marrow mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) directionally. MTT was used to observe the proliferation and activity of ALP was assayed to observe the differentiation of the third passage human osteoblasts cultured in vitro. The expression of BMP-2 mRNA was checked by RT-PCR. Result Epimedium pubescens icariine at the dose of 20 microg x mL(-1) increased greatly the proliferation and differentiation of human osteoblasts and promoted the expression of BMP-2 mRNA. Conclusion Epimedium pubescens icariine enhances significantly the proliferation and differentiation of human osteoblasts, which may be mediated by increasing the expression of BMP-2 mRNA.

Chemical constituents from tuber of Cremastra appendiculata

Abstract: OBJECTIVE To investigate the chemical constituents from the tuber of the planted Cremastra appendiculata METHOD The compounds were isolated by column chromatography over silica gel, Sephadex LH-20 and RP-HPLC, and their structures were elucidated on the basis of spectroscopic analysis RESULT Eight compounds were isolated, and identified as cirrhopetalanthrin (I), 7-hydroxy-4-methoxyphenanthrene-2-O-beta-D-glucoside (II), 4-(2-hydroxyethyl)-2-methoxyphenyl-1-O-beta-D-glucopyranoside (III), tyrosol 8-O-beta-D-gluco-pyranoside (IV), vanilloloside (V), p-hydroxybenzaldehyde (VI), sucrose (VII), adenosine (VIII) CONCLUSION These compounds are isolated from this plant for the first time All compounds were evaluated against human colon cancer (HCT-8), human hepatoma (Bel7402), human stomach cancer(BGC-823), human lung adenocarcinoma (A549), human breast cancer (MCF-7), and human ovarian cancer (A2780) cell lines, and cirrhopetalanthrin (I) showed non-selective moderate cytotoxicity with IC50 values of 84-133 micromol x L(-1), and other compounds were inactive

Studies on the chemical constituents in root of Coleus forskohlii

Abstract: Objective To study the chemical constituents in root of Coleusforskohlii. Method The chemical constituents were isolated by column chromatography. The structures were elucidated on the basis of IR, MS, 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR and 2D-NMR experiments. Result Six compounds were obtained and the structures were identified as 14-deoxycoleon U (1), demethylcryptojaponol (2), alpha-amyrin (3), betulic acid (4), alpha-cedrol (5) and beta-sitosterol (6). Conclusion Compounds 1 and 2 were isolated from the genus Coleus for the first time. Compounds 3 and 4 were isolated from C. forskohlii for the first time.

Preventive effects of emodin on cerebral ischemia injury and expression of the inflammatory factors in rats with cerebral ischemia

Abstract: OBJECTIVE: To assess emodin antagonism to cerebral ischemia injury, and to discuss the mechanism of emodin inhibiting the inflammatory cascade reaction from the levels and expressions of cytokines. METHOD: Rats were divided into sham-operated group, model group, Ligustrazine group and emodin groups (low, middle, high dosage). After focal cerebral ischemic model of cerebral middle artery occlusion was duplicated with nylon thread, we took the speciments after ischemia 6 hours, observed the changes of the evaluating score of neural symptoms, brain water ratio and cerebral infarction area, determined the levels of TNF-alpha, IL-beta and TGF-beta in rats brain tissue by radioimmunoassay, detected the expressions of TNF-alpha and VCAM-1 by immunohistochemistry, and measured VCAM-1-mRNA expression by in-situ hybridization. RESULT: Compared with sham-operated group, the evaluating score of neural symptoms, brain water ratio and cerebral infarction area of rats in model group were higher (P < 0.01) , the levels of TNF-alpha and IL-1beta of rats brain tissue in model group increased, while the level of TGF-beta was lower, and the expressions of TNF-alpha and VCAM-1 increased (P < 0.01). The evaluating score of neural symptoms, brain water ratio and cerebral infarction area improved obviously in every emodin group, especially in emodin low dosage group. Levels of TNF-alpha, IL-1beta and the expressions of TNF-alpha and ICAM-1 in emodin low dosage group and Ligustrazine group were lower, while the level of TGF-beta was higher. Compared with Ligustrazine group, the changes aboved are more significant in emodin low dosage group (P < 0.01). CONCLUSION: The increase of inflammatory cascade reaction mediated by various cytokines such as TNF, IL-1beta, ICAM-1 and the decrease of TGF protection are the important mechanism of cerebral ischemia injury. The mechanism of emodin antagonism to cerebral ischemia injury may be implemented by inhibiting inflammatory cascade reaction and increasing the brain protective factors, such as TGF.

Progress in research on triptolide

Abstract: To further understand triptolide, this paper has introduced the pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, toxicity, the clinic application and semi-synthesis of triptolide on basis of importance and significant contents of reference which have been consulted in the past twenty years Presently triptolide and Tripterygium wilfordii have been a hot spot of modernization of Chinese traditional medicine It is very important to develop a new dosage form of high effect and low toxicity by making use of advanced technology according to its characteristics

Studies on chemical constituents in bark of dictamnus dasycarpus

Abstract: Objective To study the chemical constituents in bark of Dictamnus dasycarpus Method Isolation and purification were carried out on silica gel column chromatography, prepared thin layer chromatography and sephadex LH - 20, et al The structures were identified by spectral analysis Result Twelve compounds were obtained from bark of D dasycarpus and the structures were determined as dictamnine (I), fraxinellone (II), skimmianine (III), gamma-fagarine (IV ), beta-sitosterol (V), obacunone (VI), limonin disophenol (VII), fraxinellonone (VIII), wogonin (IX), rutevin (X), kihadinin B (XI), dasycarine (XII) Conclusion Compounds IX and XI were isolated from genus Dictamnus for the first time, and compound VIII was isolated from the species for the first time

Progress in research of aldose reductase inhibitors in traditional medicinal herbs

Abstract: The traditional medicinal herbs are natural product, and have no obviously toxic action and side effect, and their resources are extensive. The adverse effects produced by aldose reductase inhibitors in traditional medicinal herbs are less than those from chemical synthesis and micro-organism, they can effectively prevent and delay diabetic complication, such as diabetic nephropathy, vasculopathy, retinopathy, peripheral neuropathy, and so on. They will have a wonderful respect. Flavonoid compounds and their derivates from traditional medicinal herbs are active inhibitors to aldose reductase, such as quercetin, silymarin, puerarin, baicalim, berberine and so on. In addition, some compound preparations show more strongly activity in inhibiting aldose reductase and degrading sorbitol contents, such as Shendan in traditional medicinal herbs being active inhibitors and Jianyi capsule, Jinmaitong composita, Liuwei Di-huang pill, et al. The progresses definite functions of treating diabetes complications have been reviewed.

Protective effects of polysacchride of Spirulina platensis and Sargassum thunbeergii on vascular of alloxan induced diabetic rats

Abstract: OBJECTIVE To study the protective effects of polysaccharide of Spirulina platensis and Sargassum thunbeergii on vascular of alloxan (ALX) induced diabetic rats. METHOD With the doses of polysaccharide of Spirulina platensis (PSP) and Sargassum thunbeergii (PST) compound (1:1) 12.261, 36.783, 110.349 mg x kg(-1) by i.g. administration to alloxan induced diabetic rats respectively for 6 weeks. Then the blood glucose and the TC, HDL-C, TG, NO, ET in serum were detected. The contraction and relaxation response to NE and ACh in aortic rings of the alloxan induced diabetic rats has been studied. RESULT The results showed the compound of PSP and PST could decrease the blood glucose and the TC, TG, NO, ET in serum and increase HDL-C than in the alloxan induced diabetic rats. The contraction responses to NE in aortic rings of the alloxan induced diabetic rats were significantly elevated in the normal rats, and the responses to ACh were significantly lower. PSP and PST compound could significantly lower the responses to NE and significantly elevate the responses to ACh in aortic rings of the alloxan induced diabetic rats. CONCLUSION PSP and PST compound could decrease blood glucose and could protect the vascular of alloxan induced diabetic rats.

Crataegus oxyacantha (aubepine) in the use as herb medicine in France

Abstract: Crataegus oxyacantha (Aubepine, Hawthorn), was used by european herbalist in the first century A. D. It went out fashion as a medicine until the 19th century for heart disease. The leaves, flowers, and berries of hawthorn contain a variety of bioflavonoid-like complexes that appear to be primarily responsible for the cardiac actions of the plant. Bioflavonoids found in C. oxyacantha include oligomeric procyanidins (OPCc), vitexin, quercetin, and hyperoside. The action of these compounds on the cardiovascular system has led to the development of leaf and flower extracts. As described in French pharmacopea, the hyperoside is the marker for quality control.

[Progress in study of chemical constituents and anti-tumor activities of Cnidium monnieri].

Abstract: The main pharmacological constituents of Chinese traditional medicine herb Cnidium monnieri are coumarin compounds and volatile oil. In addition, it contains monoterpene polyols, glucides, as well as recently discovered sesquiterpene components. In recent years, rather active investigations of its anti-tumor were performed at home and abroad. C. monnieri possesses multi-aspect and comprehensive anti-tumor functions, involving directly tumor-inhibitory activity, anti-mutagenicity, reversing multi-drug tolerance of tumor, as well as improving immune functions and so on. In this review, chemical constituents, anti-tumor activities and relevant investigations of Fructus Cnidii were summarized recent decade.

Effect of bee pollen on development of immune organ of animal

Abstract: OBJECTIVE To study on the effect of been pollen on development of immune organ of animal. METHOD A total of 144 one day-old broilers were randomly divided into 2 groups, in which each group included 72 chickens. The control group was fed on the basal diet for 42 days, and that of experiment group supplemented 1.5% bee pollen. Six chickens in each group were selected and slaughtered at 7, 14, 21, 28, 35, 42 days respectively, and the thymuses, cloacal bursa and spleens were obtained, weighted, fixed in Bouin liquid and made into paraffin section. RESULT Compared with control group, the weight and the relative weight of thymuses, cloacal bursa and spleens of experiment group increased significantly (P < 0.05) or extremely significantly (P < 0.01). In experiment group, the cortex of thymic lobule, bursa nodule and Periarterial Lymphatic Sheaths thicken obviously; the volume of bursa nodule, splenic nodule and ellipsoid augmented, and the germinal center of splenic nodule were obvious; the thymic corpuscle increased; the plica of cloacal bursa developed well and the degenerating of it retarded. CONCLUSION The diet supplemented bee pollen could boost the early development of thymus and cloacal bursa, retard the degenerating of cloacal bursa and promote the immune response of spleen.

[Effects of extract from Cornus officinalis on nitric oxide and NF-kappaB in cortex of cerebral infarction rat model].

Abstract: OBJECTIVE To observe the change of nitric oxide (NO) and expression of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-kappaB) in the cortex of cerebral infarction rat induced by photochemical reaction, and study the effect of extract from Cornus officinalis (whose main ingredient is iridoid glycoside) in the course of disease. METHOD After rats were fed with experimental drugs for 7 days, the model of cerebral infarction was induced. Spectrophotography and immunohistochemistry were used to detect the change of the content of NO, NOS and the expression of NF-kappaB in the cortex. RESULT Compared with control group, distinct infarction was visible in the model group, and the content of NO, the activity of NOS and the positive cell number of NF-kappaB were increased obviously. Compared with model group, the extract of C. officeinalis decreased the area of infarction, the content of NO, the activity of NOS and the positive cell number of NF-kappaB. CONCLUSION The iridoid glycoside of C. officinalis may have therapeutical effect on cerebral infarction through regulating the content of NO and NF-kappaB.

[Identification of triacylglycerols in coix oil by high performance liquid chromatography-atmospheric pressure chemical ionization-mass spectrometry].

Abstract: Objective To identify triacylglycerols in coix oil. Method High performance liquid chromatography-atmospheric pressure chemical ionization-mass spectrometry was used for identification. The experiment was operated under the conditions: spray voltage at 3 000 V, capillary temperature at 250 degrees C, APCI vaporizer temperature at 400 degrees C, and corona current of 4 microA. Sheath gas pressure (high purity liquid nitrogen) was 35 kPa. Mass spectra were obtained over the m/e range of 300 to 900 amu, scan duration of 1s and Q1 peak width at 0.7. The stationary phase was Zorbax Extend C18 column (4.6 mm x 250 mm, 5 microm). The mobile phase: dichloromethane-acetonitrile (35:65), flow rate: 1 mL x min(-1); column temperature: 25 degrees C. Result 12 triacylglycerols were identified by HPLC-MS method. Conclusion The result can be used to identify the components in a fingerprint chromatogram of coix oil and its related injection product.

Analysis of adverse effects of cinnabar

Abstract: This article made a brief analysis of clinical adverse effects of cinnabar Except for allergic reaction, almost all the adverse events of cinnabar were caused by unreasonable application The majority of the poisoning cases were associated with excessive and/or long-term dosage, and improper preparation methods, such as decocting, heating or fumigating Children showed to be prone to poisoning The poisoning caused by unreasonable use of cinnabar should be considered to be drug alert, but not advert effect And the toxicity of cinnabar could be avoided by normalizing the preparation method, controlling the dosage and duration

Study on chemical constituents in seeds of Helicia nilagirica (II)

Abstract: Objective: To study the chemical constituents in seeds of Helicia nilagirica.Method: The ethanol extract was seperated by petroleum ether, dichloromethane, n-butanol in sequence, then isolated by silica gel column chromatography. The structures were identified and elucidated by physicochemical properties and spectral analysis. Result: Five compounds were isolated from the dichloromethane and n-bu-tanol extracts, identified as p-hydroxybenzaldehyde (1) , p-hydroxybenzoic acid (2) , gallic acid (3) , helicide (4) , 4-formylpyrnyl-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (5) . Conclusion: All the compounds except Ⅳ were isolated from the plant for the first time. The compounds Ⅰ,Ⅱ and Ⅲ were isolated from the genus Helicia for the first time.

Phenanthrene constituents from rhizome of Arundina graminifolia

Abstract: Objective To isolate and elucidate the constituents from rhizome of Arundina graminifolia. Method Theconstituents were extracted with 95% alcohol and isolated by chromatography on silica gel, Sephedax LH-20. The structures were determined by UV, IR, NMR and MS spectral analysis. Result Five phenanthrene constituents were identified as 7-hydroxy-2, 4-dimethoxy-9, 10-dihydrophenanthrene( I ), 4, 7-dihydroxy-2-methoxy-9, 10-dihydrophenanthrene ( II ), 2, 7-dihydroxy-4-methoxy-9, 10-dihydrophenanthrene ( III ), 7-hydroxy-2-methoxyphenanthrene-1,4-dione ( IV ), 7-hydroxy-2-methoxy-9, 10-dihydrophenanthrene-1,4-dione (V), respectively. Conclusion All compounds were isolated from rhizome of A. graminifolia for the first time.

General situation of the study on the toxicity of Cinnabaris

Abstract: Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) experienced a gradual course in recognition of the toxicity of Cinnabaris from "nontoxic" to "toxic". The ancient doctors of TCM understood both the toxic property and the regularity of increasing toxicity of Cinnabaris. In long-term clinical practice they developed the methods of detoxification guiding the safe use of Cinnabaris. The toxicity of Cinnabaris is produced by mercury existed in it. Improper administration leading to an acute absorption or chronic accumulation was the main cause of clinical adverse effects. Kidney was the main poisoning target organ. On the other hand, improperly combinative application of Cinnabaris with other drugs of TCM or western medicine could increase the toxicity. Therefore, the crucial approach to avoid the poisoning is to use Cinnabaris properly.

Histopathological study on allergic rhinitis treated with Centipeda minima

Abstract: OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to investigate the mechanisms of C. minima in the treatment of allergic rhinitis. METHOD: An allergic rhinitis animal model induced by ragweed pollen was established. After treatment with an active extract of C. minima, histopathological changes in the nasal mucosa of guinea pig were observed by transmission electron microscope. RESULT: In the allergeic rhinitis model group, there appear a large number of lysosomes in the nasal epithelium with organelles vacuolated and nucleus deformed. Cells in the proper lamina of connective tissue were disarranged with organelles damaged, and there was also infiltration of eosinophils and mast cells in the connective tissue. However, in the treatment group receiving C. minima extract, the pathological changes mentioned above were significantly decreased. CONCLUSION: C. minima is effective in treating allergic rhinitis.

[Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of cyanidin from cherries on rat adjuvant-induced arthritis].

Abstract: OBJECTIVE To assess the possible antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity of cyanidin from cherries on adjuvant induced arthritis (AA) in SD rats. METHOD Arthritis was induced by the complete Freud's adjuvant in male Sprague Dauley rats and assessed based on paw swelling. Rats were randomly divided into normal group (NM), adjuvant arthritis group (AA) and three cyanidin-treated groups in high dosage (HA), middle dosage (MA), and low dosage (LA). The morphological changes in the hind limbs were conducted under a light microscope. We detected glutathione (GSH) in whole blood and malonaldehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), total antioxidative capacity (T-AOC) activity in serum by special kits to assess the antioxidant effects of cyanidin on AA. Moreover, the prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) levels in paw tissues were determined by radioimmunoassay and TNF-alpha levels in serum were determined using ELISA kits specific for rat. RESULT The cyanidin could protect against the paws swelling in AA rats. From the day 14 after AA induction, the swellings of the cyanidin treated groups at high dosage and low dosage were significantly reduced compared with the model group (P < 0.05, 0.01). Histological examination of sections through the hind limbs revealed alleviation of inflammatory reaction in the joint after the treatment. The cyanidin at high and low dosage could increase the GSH, SOD activity and T-AOC levels in whole blood or serums and decrease MDA in AA rats (P < 0.01). The cyanidin could decrease the PGE2 levels in paw tissues and the TNF-alpha levels in serum at high and low dosages (P < 0.01). CONCLUSION The cyanidin could protect against the paws swelling in AA rats, and alleviate the inflammatory reaction in the joint, and the mechanism might be via the increase activity of GSH, SOD and T-AOC that improve the total antioxidative capacity and scavenge the free radicals, perhaps as a result of that the levels of the PGE2 in paw tissues and TNF-alpha contents in serum were decreased. The results suggest that the cyanidin from cherries could be one of the potential candidates for the alleviation of arthritis.

Studies on chemical constituents in herb of Polygonum orientale

Abstract: Objective To study the chemical constituents of the essential substance from Polygonum oriental. Method Compounds were isolated with silica gel and polyamide chromatography and their structures were determined by spectral analysis and chemical evidence. Result Six compounds were obtained and identified as myricitrin, luteolin, gallic acid, catechin, protocatechuic acid, p-hydroxycinnamic acid. Conclusion Six compounds were isolated from P. oriental for the first time.

[The inhibition of 20(R)-ginsenoside Rg3 on the expressions of angiogenesis factors proteins in human lung adenocarcinoma cell line A549 and HUVEC304 cell].

Abstract: Objective To study the effect of 20( R)-ginsenoside Rg3 on the expressions of angiogenesis factors proteins (VEGF,bFGF, MMP-2) in human lung adenocarcinoma cell line A549 and HUVEC304 cell. Method The cell lines of A549 and HUVEC304 were cultured with 20(R)- Rg3. The gray scale and positive rate of VEGF, bFGF, MMP-2 were detected by immunohistochemistry. The differential expressions of genes were studied by DNA microarray. Result The positive rate of VEGF protein in A549 cell decreased significantly as compared with the control group ( P = 0.03). The gray scales of VEGF, Flt, KDT proteins in both A549 cell lines and HUVEC 304 cell lines decreased ( P = 0.05). Gray scale of MMP-2 also decreased in A549 cell lines. The result of differential expressions of genes of A549 cell lines showed that 14 genes were down-regulated and 10 genes were up-regulated. Conclusion The Chinese materia medica of 20( R)-Rg3 can inhibit the expression of angiogenesis factors proteins via several target genes in both tumour cell and vascular endothelial cell.

Alteration of activities of telomerase in tanshinone IIA inducing apoptosis of the leukemia cells

Abstract: OBJECTIVE To investigate the effect of tanshinone IIA on HL-60 and K562 cells apoptosis, and to assay the inhibition of the telomerase activities in the leukemia cell apoptosis induced by Tanshinone. METHOD Using the techniques of cell culture in vitro, flow cytometry and PCR-TRAP observed the telomerase activities and apoptosis of HL-60 and K562 cells which treated by Tan IIA. RESULT 0.5 microg x mL(-1) Tan IIA could obviously inhibit HL-60 and K562 cell lines growth (P < 0.05), down-regulate c-myc, bcl-2 gene and up-regulate c-fos and p53 gene expression as well as induce leukemia cell apoptosis, the apoptotic rates of HL-60 and K562 cells were 11.8% and 21.8% respectively. The telomerase activities significant decreased, the inhibiting rates in HL60 and K562 cells were 30.8% and 50.8% respectively. CONCLUSION Tan IIA could significantly inhibit the proliferation and telomerase activities of HL-60 and K562 cells and induce the leukemia cell apoptosis.

Studies on the anticancer effects of total alkaloid from Viscum coloratum

Abstract: Objective To study the anticancer effects of total alkaloid from Viscum coloratum in vivo and vitro. Method In vitro, MTT assays were used t o measure the inhibitory effect. Cells at period of logarithmic growth were incubated for 24 hours. Then total alkaloid of various concentrations were added. 24 hours later, supernatant was removed and MTT was added. 4 hours after that, DMSO was added, then 30 minutes later, A value was measured. In vivo, suspension of carcinoma cells was implanted in the mice's limbs subcutaneously, 0.2mL each. 24 hours later, the mice were grouped randomly. Fed by total alkaloid continuously for 7 days, the mice were sacrificed. The tumors were weighed and calculated the inhibitory rates. Result In vitro, it shows that total alkaloid has prominent inhibitory effect on the growth of carcinoma cells. In vivo, it shows that total alkaloid can inhibit the growth of tumors and prolong the survival days of the mice bearing tumors. Conclusion Total alkaloid from Viscum coloratum has the activities of anticancer.

Habitat characteristics for the growth of Atractylodes lancea based on GIS

Abstract: OBJECTIVE To study the habitat characteristics for the growth of Atractylodes lancea. METHOD The leading factors for the growth of A. lancea are determined after stepwise regression, and the limiting factor are determined by field study, literature search,and weather records. The mean values of leading factors and the limiting factors of A. lancea for 30 years were applied to do spatial interpolation using IDIRIEIW softwares. An overlay was prerformed using data obtained in Mt. Maoshan and the general habitat of A. Iancea. RESULT It was found that precipitation is one of the dominant climate factors that affects the quality of A. lancea. High temperature was one of the limiting factor which influences the living of A. lancea. The best habitat was determined to be: annual mean temperature more than 15 degrees C, monthly mean minimum temperature between - 2- -1 degrees C, monthly mean maximum temperature about 32 degrees C, lowest tolerable temperature - 17- -15 degrees C, drought season 1 - 2 months, annual mean precipitation between 1000 - 1160 mm. CONCLUSION Mt. Maoshan was characterized by having high temperature, short drought season and adequate precipitation. The growth of A. Lancea is a result of environmental stress.

Study on the anticancer activities of the Clematis manshrica saponins in vivo

Abstract: OBJECTIVE To study the anticancer activity of the Clematis manshrica saponins in vivo. METHOD Anticancer activities were tested in mice with experimental tumor (S180, HepA and P388) in vivo. RESULT The Clematis manshrica saponins showed a significant anticancer activities on Sarcoma-180, HepA and P388 implanted in mice. In S180 sarcoma, the average tumor inhibition rates were 42.78%, 52.06% and 58.25% (P < 0.05-0.01) respectively; The mean inhibition rates were 37.44%, 52.05% and 59.36% (P < 0.05-0.001) in Hep A tumor separately; while in P388 tumor, the mean inhibition rates were 34.50%, 46.78% and 54.39% (P < 0.05-0.01), respectively. CONCLUSION The results indicate that Clematis manshrica has obvious antitumor effects against various transplanted tumor in mice.