Фёдор Цыпулин, Краснодарский край, ст.Динская, сообщает:
Как мне удалось вылечить 80-летнего деда от рака лёгкого: ко мне обратилась родня этого деда с просьбой помочь, от самого деда они скрыли, что у того обнаружена раковая опухоль в лёгком.
Чтобы поддержать деда, я прописал ему по 25 капель настойки калужского женьшеня, по переносимости увеличил разовую дозу до 40 капель, и
так на протяжении шести месяцев, без перерывов. Никакого другого специфического лечения не проводилось, но через полгода женьшенетерапии опухоли в лёгком не осталось.
Два корейских профессора
поясняют механизм противораковой активности женьшеня
ЗДЕСЬ
Preventive effect of ginseng intake against various human cancers: a
case-control study on 1987 pairs.
Yun TK, Choi SY
Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 1995 Jun 4:4 401-8
Abstract
This study presents the risk of various cancers in relation to ginseng intake based on the
data from a case-control study conducted in the Korea Cancer Center Hospital. Ginseng
intakers had a decreased risk [odds ratio = 0.50, 95% confidence interval (CI) =
0.44-0.58] for cancer compared with nonintakers. On the type of ginseng, the odds ratios
for cancer were 0.37 (95% CI = 0.29-0.46) for fresh ginseng extract intakers, 0.57 (95% CI
= 0.48-0.68) for white ginseng extract intakers, 0.30 (95% CI = 0.22-0.41) for white
ginseng powder intakers, and 0.20 (95% CI = 0.08-0.50) for red ginseng intakers. Intakers
of fresh ginseng slice, fresh ginseng juice, and white ginseng tea, however, showed no
decreasing risk. There was a decrease in risk with the rising frequency and duration of
ginseng intake, showing a dose-response relationship. On the site of cancer, the odds
ratios were 0.47 for cancer of the lip, oral cavity, and pharynx; 0.20 for esophageal
cancer; 0.36 for stomach cancer; 0.42 for colorectal cancer; 0.48 for liver cancer; 0.22
for pancreatic cancer; 0.18 for laryngeal cancer; 0.55 for lung cancer; and 0.15 for
ovarian cancer. In cancers of the female breast, uterine cervix, urinary bladder, and
thyroid gland, however, there was no association with ginseng intake. In cancers of the
lung, lip, oral cavity and pharynx, and liver, smokers with ginseng intake showed
decreased odds ratios compared with smokers without ginseng intake. These findings support
the view that ginseng intakers had a decreased risk for most cancers compared with
nonintakers.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
-------------------
ПЕРЕВОД ПРЕДЫДУЩЕГО РЕФЕРАТА:
Профилактическое действие
употребления женьшеня против различных видов
рака у человека: изучение 1987 контрольных пар.
Yun TK, Choi SY
Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 1995 июнь 4:4 401-8
(перевод - В.С.Х., редактор - В.А. Болибок)
Реферат
В исследовании
представлена оценка снижения риска заболевания
различными видами рака в связи с употреблением
женьшеня, которое проведено в Центральном
онкологическом госпитале Ю.Кореи методом
контрольных пар (метод "случай-контроль").
Лица, употреблявшие
женьшень, имели меньший риск заболевания раком
[шансы = 0.50, при доверительной вероятности 95 % и
интервале (CI) = 0.44-0.58], по сравнению с лицами, не
употреблявшими женьшень (их шанс в данном
исследовании принят за 1,0 - прим. ред.)
В зависимости от вида
женьшеня шансы заболеть раком были 0.37 (95 % CI =
0.29-0.46) для употреблявших экстракт из свежего
женьшеня, 0.57 (95 % CI = 0.48-0.68) для употреблявших
экстракт из белого женьшеня, 0.30 (95 % CI = 0.22-0.41) для
употреблявших порошок белого женьшеня, и 0.20 (95 % CI
= 0.08-0.50) для употреблявших красный женьшень. Для
употреблявших кусочки свежего женьшеня, сок
свежего женьшеня, и чай из белого женьшеня, не
было отмечено однако никакого уменьшения риска.
Обнаружен дозо-зависимый
эффект - с увеличением длительности и частоты
употребления женьшеня было отмечено уменьшение
риска заболевания раком.
По локализациям рака, шансы были 0.47 для рака губы,
полости рта, и глотки; 0.20 для рака пищевода; 0.36 для
рака желудка; 0.42 для рака прямой кишки; 0.48 для
рака печени; 0.22 для рака поджелудочной железы; 0.18
для рака гортани; 0.55 для рака легкого; и 0.15 для
рака яичников.
Для рака груди у женщин,
шейки матки, мочевого пузыря, и щитовидной железы
не отмечено однако какой-либо связи с
употреблением женьшеня.
У курильщиков,
употреблявших женьшень, отмечено снижение
шансов заболеть раком легкого, губы, печени,
полости рта и глотки, по сравнению с
курильщиками, не употреблявшими женьшень.
Эти результаты
подтверждают, что употреблявшие женьшень лица
имели меньший риск заболеть большинством видов
рака по сравнению с не употреблявшими женьшень.
(перевод на русский язык следующих рефератов
будет выполнен в будущем)
Non-organ specific cancer prevention of ginseng: a prospective study in Korea.
Yun TK, Choi SY
Int J Epidemiol 1998 Jun 27:3 359-64
Abstract
BACKGROUND: A number of studies have reported that increased consumption of natural
products reduced the risk of cancer. Our previous case-control studies have shown a
significant reduction in the risk of cancer development among those who regularly consumed
ginseng. We conducted a prospective cohort study to evaluate the preventive effect of
ginseng against cancer on a population residing in a ginseng cultivation area on the basis
of the result of case-control studies. METHODS: This study was conducted in Kangwha-eup
from August 1987 to December 1992. We studied 4634 people over 40 years old who completed
a questionnaire on ginseng intake. In an attempt to obtain detailed information about
ginseng intake, we asked them to specify their age at initial intake, their frequency and
duration of ginseng intake, the kind of ginseng, etc. Multiple logistic regression was
used to estimate relative risks (RR) when controlling simultaneously for covariates.
RESULTS: Ginseng consumers had a decreased risk (RR = 0.40, 95% confidence interval [CI] :
0.28-0.56) compared with non-consumers. On the type of ginseng, the RR was 0.31 (95% CI:
0.13-0.74) for fresh ginseng extract consumers and 0.34 (95% CI: 0.20-0.53) for consumers
of multiple combinations. There was no cancer death among 24 red ginseng consumers. There
was a decreased risk with a rise in the frequency of ginseng intake, showing a
dose-response relationship. The RR of ginseng consumers were 0.33 (95% CI: 0.18-0.57) in
gastric cancer and 0.30 (95% CI : 0.14-0.65) in lung cancer. Among ginseng preparations,
fresh ginseng extract consumers were significantly associated with a decreased risk of
gastric cancer (RR = 0.33, 95% CI: 0.12-0.88). CONCLUSIONS: These results strongly suggest
that Panax ginseng C.A. Meyer has non-organ specific preventive effect against cancer,
providing support for the previous case-control studies
--------------
A case-control study of ginseng intake and cancer.
Yun TK, Choi SY
Int J Epidemiol 1990 Dec 19:4 871-6
Abstract
The effect of ginseng consumption on the risk of cancer was investigated by interviewing
905 pairs of cases and controls matched by age, sex, and date of admission to the Korea
Cancer Center Hospital, Seoul, Korea. Of the 905 cases 562 (62%) had a history of ginseng
intake compared to 674 of the 905 controls (75%) a statistically significant difference (p
less than 0.01). The odds ratio (OR) of cancer in relation to ginseng intake was 0.56 (95%
confidence interval (CI), 0.45-0.69). Ginseng extract and powder were shown to be more
effective than fresh sliced ginseng, the juice, or tea in reducing the OR. Odds ratios for
decreasing levels of ginseng intake were 1.00, 0.58, 0.43 and 0.25 for males and 1.00,
0.81, 0.56 and 0.52 for females. A trend test showed a significant decrease in proportion
of cancer cases with increasing frequency of intake for males (p less than 10(-5)) as well
as for females (p less than 0.05). Chi-square homogeneity tests also confirmed significant
differences between cases and controls for both sexes (p less than 10(-3)). The
reliability of recall for ginseng use was assessed by interviewing 180 randomly-selected
subjects twice using the same questionnaire. The overall agreement in reported ginseng use
between the two interviews was 0.85, and the Kappa value was 0.71 (p less than 0.01).
These results strongly support the hypothesis of preventive effects of ginseng on cancer
suggested by earlier animal studies.
----------------
Update from Asia. Asian studies on cancer chemoprevention.
Yun TK
Ann N Y Acad Sci 1999 889 157-92
Abstract
In Asia, nontoxic dietary products are considered desirable primary prevention vehicles
for conquering cancer. As early as 1978, investigators in Korea carried out extensive
long-term anticarcinogenicity experiments using the mouse lung tumor model and observed an
anticarcinogenic effect of Panax ginseng C.A. Meyer extract in 1980. The results showed
that natural products can provide hope for human cancer prevention. A newly established
nine-week medium-term model using mouse lung tumors (Yun's model) could confirm the
anticarcinogenicity of ginseng that varies according to its type and age. Subsequently,
the ginseng was shown by epidemiological studies to be a nonorgan-specific cancer
preventive agent associated with a dose-response relationship. The anticarcinogenic
effects of vegetarian foods common at every dining table in Korea and some synthetics were
also studied using Yun's nine-week model. In brief, ascorbic acid, soybean lecithin,
capsaicin, biochanin A, Ganoderma lucidum, caffeine, and a novel synthetic
2-(allylthio)pyrazine decrease the incidence of mouse lung tumors, whereas fresh ginseng
(4 years old), carrot, spinach, Sesamum indicum, beta-carotene, and 13-cis retinoic acid
do not. This result regarding beta-carotene is consistent with the ineffective findings of
the ATBC trial, the CARET trial, and the Physicians' Health Study. In 1983, a cancer
chemoprevention study group was first established in Japan. Subsequently,
(-)-epigallocatechin gallate, cryptoporic acid E, and sarcophytol A from natural products,
and synthetic acyclic retinoid and canventol were shown to be anticarcinogenic or
chemopreventive in human subjects. Despite the frequent consumption of tea wordwide as a
beverage and current experimental evidence of anticarcinogenesis, including controversial
results of epidemiological studies, more systematic clinical trials for confirmation of
preventive activity of tea against cancer are needed. Placebo-controlled intervention
trials of dietary fiber are under study in Japan. In the past decade, new triterpenoids
were isolated from various natural sources, and its biological activities were
investigated in Asia. In the late 1970s a comprehensive chemoprevention program was
established at the Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences. Since
then, many retinoid compounds have been synthesized and screened in the search for
chemopreventive cancer agents. The National Cancer Institute (USA) and China are jointly
engaged in the two-nutrition intervention in Linxian, China. The results of joint study of
the general population and of dysplasia in China should stimulate further research to
clarify the potential benefits of micronutrient supplements. We need to clarify if there
is a connection between the lower rates of cancer mortality in Korea and the frequent
consumption of anticarcinogenic vegetables or traditional foods, including ginseng and
Ganoderma lucidum. The constituents of the nontoxic stable dietary products promise to be
the future hope for conquering cancers in the coming years.
--------------
Cancer chemopreventive and therapeutic activities of red ginseng.
Xiaoguang C, Hongyan L, Xiaohong L, Zhaodi F, Yan L, Lihua T, Rui H
J Ethnopharmacol 1998 Feb 60:1 71-8
Abstract
Red ginseng extract A and B are the active components of Panax ginseng. Red ginseng is a
classical traditional Chinese medicine. Among Chinese herbs, red ginseng has been
considered as one of the tonics. Many studies indicated that red ginseng could enhance
immune function of the human body. The effects of red ginseng extracts on transplantable
tumors, proliferation of lymphocyte, two-stage model and rat liver lipid peroxidation were
studied. In a two-stage model, red ginseng extracts had a significant cancer
chemoprevention. At 50-400 mg/kg, they could inhibit DMBA/Croton oil-induced skin
papilloma in mice, decrease the incidence of papilloma, prolong the latent period of tumor
occurrence and reduce tumor number per mouse in a dose-dependent manner. Red ginseng
extract B could effectively inhibit the Fe2+/cysteine-induced lipid peroxidation of rat
liver microsome, suggesting that red ginseng extract B has a stronger antioxidative effect
than that of extract A. The results indicated that red ginseng extracts (50 approximately
400 mg/kg) could significantly inhibit the growth of transplantable mouse sarcoma S180 and
melanoma B16. Red ginseng extracts A (0.5 mg/ml) and B (0.1 and 0.25 mg/ml) might
effectively promote the transformation of T lymphocyte, but there was no influence on
lymphocyte proliferation stimulated by concanavalin A. This suggests that red ginseng
extracts have potent tumor therapeutic activity and improve the cell immune system.
---------------
Saponin contents and anticarcinogenic effects of ginseng depending on types and
ages in mice.
Yun TK, Lee YS, Kwon HY, Choi KJ
Chung Kuo Yao Li Hsueh Pao 1996 Jul 17:4 293-8
Abstract
AIM: To compare the anticarcinogenic effects of fresh, white, and red ginseng (Panax
ginseng C A Meyer) roots and their saponins. METHODS: Lung adenoma in newborn N:GP (S)
mice was induced by a subcutaneous injection of benzo(a)pyrene 0.5 mg. After weaning,
ginseng powders or extracts were given in the drinking water for 6 wk. In the 9th wk the
incidence and multiplicity of lung adenoma were counted. RESULTS: Anticarcinogenic effects
were found in 6-year-dried fresh ginseng, 5- and 6-year white ginseng, and 4-, 5-, and
6-year-red ginseng powders. Anticarcinogenic effects were also found in 6-year-dried fresh
ginseng, 5- and 6-year-white ginseng, and 4-, 5-, and 6-year-red ginseng extracts. The
content of major ginsenosides Rb1, Rb2, Rc, Rd, Re, Rf, Rg1 showed a little higher
tendency in fresh or white ginsengs than red ginseng. This tendency was increased as the
cultivation ages were increased. But there was no relationship was found between
ginsenoside contents and preparation types or cultivation ages. CONCLUSION:
Long-cultivated ginseng and red ginseng contain a higher amount of anticarcinogenic
components.
----------------
Anticarcinogenic effect of long-term oral administration of red ginseng on newborn
mice exposed to various chemical carcinogens.
Yun TK, Yun YS, Han IW
Cancer Detect Prev 1983 6:6 515-25
Abstract
This investigation was carried out to evaluate the effects of ginseng in inhibition or
prevention of carcinogenesis induced by various chemical carcinogens. Korean red ginseng
was administered orally to the newborn mice. 9, 10-Dimethyl-1,2-benzanthracene (DMBA),
urethane, and aflatoxin B1 were injected in subscapular region of ICR mice within 24 hr
after birth. Controls comprised three groups of ICR newborn mice: normal, (100) ginseng,
(200), and vehicle (316). The six experimental groups of ICR newborn mice comprised DMBA
(101), DMBA combined with ginseng (103), urethane (94), urethane combined with ginseng
(92), aflatoxin B1 (50), and aflatoxin B1 combined with ginseng (47). The mice were
autopsied immediately following sacrifice. All major organs were examined grossly and
weighed. Histopathological examinations were also made. In the group sacrificed at 48
weeks after the treatment with DMBA (DMBA combined with ginseng extract), the average
diameter of the largest lung adenomas decreased by 23%. The incidence of diffuse pulmonary
infiltration decreased by 63%, and the average lung weight of male mice decreased by 21%.
In the group sacrificed at 28 weeks after the treatment (urethane combined with ginseng),
there was a 22% decrease (P less than 0.05) in the incidence of lung adenoma. In the group
sacrificed at 56 weeks after birth (aflatoxin B1 combined with ginseng), there were
decreases in the incidence of lung adenoma (29%) and hepatoma (75%) (P less than 0.05).
These findings indicate that the prolonged administration of Korean red ginseng extract
inhibited the incidence and also the proliferation of tumors induced by DMBA, urethane,
and aflatoxin B1.
------------
Asian studies of cancer chemoprevention: latest clinical results.
Kakizoe T
Eur J Cancer 2000 Jun 36:10 1303-9
Abstract
Chemoprevention trials in Asia, including those already completed and those now ongoing,
are reviewed. Information was mainly collected from Japan, Korea and China. Each country
features its own characteristics. Cancer chemoprevention trials targeting, from various
aspects, hepatocellular carcinoma, gastric cancer and colon cancer have been, and are now
being, conducted in Japan. Japan also has a long history of basic carcinogenesis research
and carcinogenic research using animal experiments. In Korea, ginseng is the main focus of
studies of chemopreventive agents. A large body of information has been collected and
prospective studies are also ongoing. In China, the Linxian study, a cooperative study
participated in by China and the NCI of the USA, is well known and the results impressive.
However, we must exercise caution because, for example, the population of Linxian are
chronically deficient in multiple vitamins and trace minerals. This situation may,
therefore, differ from that observed in other countries. In any event, chemoprevention
studies will be popular from an economical point of view even in Asia because cancer is
becoming the number one cause of death in these countries.
-------------
Panax (ginseng)--panacea or placebo? Molecular and cellular basis of its
pharmacological activity.
Ong YC, Yong EL
Ann Acad Med Singapore 2000 Jan 29:1 42-6
Abstract
INTRODUCTION: The use of ethnobotanical drugs amongst Asians as complementary medicine is
prevalent and is also gaining increasing popularity in the West. The most well-known herb
traditionally used as a drug is the root of the ginseng species. There are many
traditional and anecdotal claims to the therapeutic properties of ginseng. In recent
years, there have been systematic efforts to analyse the bioactivities of ginseng
saponins. METHODS: A comprehensive review of published literature covering molecular and
cellular research as well as animal and human studies on ginseng and its derivatives.
RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Current published data would serve as a framework to understand
the pharmacology of ginseng in its entirety, from its molecular action to actual
therapeutic effects observed in human use. A new paradigm is emerging whereby the
pharmacological effects of traditional herbs such as ginseng can be understood in the
light of their polyvalent actions as demonstrated by ginseng saponins with their positive
anti-mutagenic, anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetes and neurovascular effects.
With increasing understanding, evidence-based incorporation of traditional herbs as
complementary medicine into mainstream medical science can be achieved in the near future.
----------
How useful are unconventional cancer treatments?
Ernst E, Cassileth BR
Eur J Cancer 1999 Oct 35:11 1608-13
Abstract
Unconventional cancer treatments are used frequently. Therefore, oncologists need to know
about them. This article gives an overview of current knowledge on the most prevalent
complementary or alternative cancer therapies. A distinction is made between alleged
cures, preventive and adjunctive measures. Shark cartilage, mistletoe, thymus therapy,
essiac, hydrazine sulphate, 714-X, dietary regimens, green tea and Panax ginseng are all
covered specifically. None of these treatments offer reasonable hope for a cure. Some
strategies are promising in terms of cancer prevention. The true potential of
unconventional therapies might lie in adjunctive and palliative care. It is concluded that
good evidence in this area is scarce. Vis-a-vis the high prevalence of unconventional
cancer treatments, rigorous investigations are mandatory, not least for increasing the
safety of future patients.
---------------
Inhibition of oxidative DNA damage, 8-OHdG, and carbonyl contents in smokers
treated with antioxidants (vitamin E, vitamin C, beta-carotene and red ginseng).
Lee BM, Lee SK, Kim HS
Cancer Lett 1998 Oct 23 132:1-2 219-27
Abstract
The chemopreventive effects of antioxidants (vitamin E, beta-carotene, vitamin C and red
ginseng) on oxidative DNA and protein (globin) damages were comparatively investigated in
the peripheral blood of smokers (> or = 20 cigarettes/day). Smokers showed a lower
baseline level of plasma micronutrients (vitamin C and beta-carotene) (P < 0.01) and
higher baseline level of oxidative DNA or protein damage than non-smokers (N = 5; P <
0.05). During daily supplementation of antioxidants (200 IU vitamin of E, 9 mg of
beta-carotene, 500 mg of vitamin C, or 1.8 g of red ginseng) for 4 weeks, smokers plasma
antioxidant concentrations increased linearly, while their mean levels of
8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) and carbonyl contents decreased compared with those in
smokers supplemented with a placebo (P < 0.05). Levels of urinary and plasma cotinine
remained steady in smokers regardless of supplementation with antioxidants. 8-OHdG and
carbonyl content decreased in a time-dependent manner (as the total intake dose increased)
after supplementation with vitamin E (8-OHdG, 33.8%; carbonyl content, 43.6%) or red
ginseng (8-OHdG, 31.7%; carbonyl content, 21.3%). These preliminary data suggest that
supplementation with antioxidants might protect smokers from oxidative damages and could
reduce cancer risk or other diseases caused by free radicals associated with smoking.
------------
Influence of ginseng upon the development of liver cancer induced by
diethylnitrosamine in rats.
Wu XG, Zhu DH
J Tongji Med Univ 1990 10:3 141-5, 133
Abstract
The influence of ginseng upon the development of liver cancer induced by
diethylnitrosamine (DEN) in rats was observed with histochemical methods and microscopy.
The incidence of liver cancer was 14.3% in the experimental group and 100% in the control
group, with the difference being statistically significant. Degeneration and necrosis of
the hepatocytes in the experimental group were milder than in the control group.
Histochemical studies also revealed that the activity of SDH, 5'-NT and gamma-GT, and the
amounts of DNA, RNA and glycogen in the experimental group were maintained at relatively
normal level, and decreased or increased in the control group. The results obtained in our
experimental studies indicated that the ginseng seems to play a role of protecting the
hepatocyte from injury by DEN, thereby inhibiting the development of liver cancer induced
by DEN.
-------------
Induction of apoptosis by a novel intestinal metabolite of ginseng saponin via
cytochrome c-mediated activation of caspase-3 protease.
Lee SJ, Ko WG, Kim JH, Sung JH, Moon CK, Lee BH
Biochem Pharmacol 2000 Sep 1 60:5 677-85
Abstract
Ginseng saponins exert various important pharmacological effects with regard to the
control of many diseases including cancer. The novel intestinal bacterial metabolites of
ginseng protopanaxadiol saponins have recently been found and isolated after the oral
administration of ginseng extract in human and rats.
20-O-(beta-D-Glucopyranosyl)-20(S)-protopanaxadiol (IH-901) formed from ginsenosides Rb1,
Rb2, and Rc is of particular interest in cancer chemoprevention and treatment. We
investigated the effects of IH-901 on the human myeloid leukemia cell line HL-60 in terms
of inhibition of proliferation and induction of apoptosis. IH-901 showed a significant
cytotoxic activity in HL-60 cells (IC(50) = 24. 3 microM) following a 96-hr incubation.
Treatment of HL-60 cells with IH-901 resulted in the formation of internucleosomal DNA
fragments. The dose- and time-dependent induction of apoptosis by IH-901 was demonstrated
in sandwich enzyme immunoassay and the results were confirmed by flow cytometric analysis.
Morphological examination of IH-901-treated samples showed cells with chromatin
condensation, cell shrinkage, and nuclear fragmentation, all typical characteristics of
apoptotic cells. The treatment of HL-60 cells with IH-901 caused activation of caspase-3
protease and subsequent proteolytic cleavage of poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase. IH-901 did
not affect the expression of antiapoptotic protein Bcl-2 but did cause a release of
mitochondrial cytochrome c into cytosol. In conclusion, our results demonstrate that
IH-901 dramatically suppresses HL-60 cell growth by inducing programed cell death through
activation of caspase-3 protease, which occurs via mitochondrial cytochrome c release
independently of Bcl-2 modulation. These results may provide a pivotal mechanism for the
use of IH-901 in the prevention and treatment of leukemia.
------------
Effect of petroleum ether extract of Panax ginseng roots on proliferation and cell
cycle progression of human renal cell carcinoma cells.
Sohn J, Lee CH, Chung DJ, Park SH, Kim I, Hwang WI
Exp Mol Med 1998 Mar 31 30:1 47-51
Abstract
Panax ginseng roots have long been used as a medicinal herb in oriental countries. We have
investigated anti-proliferative effects of lipid soluble Panax ginseng components on human
renal cancer cell lines. Petroleum ether extract of Panax ginseng roots (GX-PE) or its
partially purified preparation (7:3 GX) was added to cultures of three human renal cell
carcinoma (RCC) cell lines, A498, Caki-1, and CURC II. Proliferation of RCC cells was
estimated by a [3H]thymidine incorporation assay and cell cycle distribution was analyzed
by flow cytometry. GX-PE, 7:3 GX, panaxydol and panaxynol inhibited proliferation of all
three RCC cell lines in a dose dependent manner in vitro with an order of potency, 7:3 GX
> panaxydol > panaxynol = GX-PE. Additive effect of interleukin 4 was also
demonstrated, most prominently in Caki-1 which responded poorly to GX-PE alone. Analysis
of cell cycle in CURC II and Caki-1 treated with GX-PE demonstrated increase in G1 phase
population and corresponding decrease in S phase population. The present study
demonstrated that proliferation of human RCC cell lines were inhibited by lipid soluble
components of Panax ginseng roots by blocking cell cycle progression at G1 to S phase
transition.
----------------
Research and development of cancer chemopreventive agents in China.
Rui H
J Cell Biochem Suppl 1997 27 7-11
Abstract
Since the late 1970s, a comprehensive search for cancer chemopreventive agents has been
established in our Institute. A series of new retinoids have been synthesized and screened
on the basis of established methodologies of experimental chemoprevention in vitro as well
as in vivo. Pharmacological studies demonstrated that N-4-(carboxyphenyl)retinamide (RII)
induces cell differentiation of HL-60 cells and inhibits dimethylnitrosamine-induced
carcinogenesis of the forestomach in mice, 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (DMBA)-induced
papilloma in mouse skin, and DMBA-induced carcinogenesis of the buccal pouch in Syrian
golden hamsters. It significantly promoted lymphoblastic transformation and activated
macrophages. In further studies, RII significantly inhibited ornithine decarboxylase
activity. After 6 months of chronic toxicological studies in rats and dogs, RII was
recommended for clinical trial. Phase II studies found that RII is effective in treating
oral and vulvar leukoplakia. It is also effective in treating myelodysplastic syndrome and
dysplasia of uterine cervix. The chalcone retinoidal compounds were discovered when the
search for new retinoids with less toxicity and higher potency led to third-generation
retinoids, which were synthesized and screened. Structure-activity relationship studies
found that 3,5-di-tert-butyl-4-methoxy-4-carboxyl chalcone (R9158) is the most active
inhibitor of a variety of cancer cells. It has no effect on the Colony Forming
Unit-Granulocyte/Macrophage (CFU-GM) of bone marrow in mice. In in vivo studies, R9158
showed a remarkable inhibition of chondrosarcoma in rats. It had no cross-resistance to
vincristine, but was cross-resistant to all-trans retinoic acid. Red ginseng, a processed
Panax ginseng, is considered a typical tonic in traditional Chinese medicine. Our studies
demonstrated that red ginseng extract inhibited DMBA-induced skin papilloma significantly.
Experiments showed that glycyrrhetinic acid inhibited croton oil-induced ear edema in
mice. It also inhibited epidermal ornithine decarboxylase as well as the rapid DNA damage
induced by the carcinogen benzo[a]pyrene (B[a]P). Our pharmacological studies demonstrated
that Chinese gallotannin inhibited the malignant transformation of B[a]P-induced V79 cells
in vitro and B[a]P-induced pulmonary adenoma in A/J mice in vivo significantly.
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Modulation of programmed cell death by medicinal plants.
Thatte U, Bagadey S, Dahanukar S
Cell Mol Biol (Noisy-le-grand) 2000 Feb 46:1 199-214
Abstract
Programmed cell death (apoptosis), a form of cell death, described by Kerr and Wyllie some
20 years ago, has generated considerable interest in recent years. The mechanisms by which
this mode of cell death (seen both in animal and plant cells), takes place have been
examined in detail. Extracellular signals and intracellular events have been elaborated.
Of interest to the clinician, is the concentrated effort to study pharmacological
modulation of programmed cell death. The attempt to influence the natural phenomenon of
programmed cell death stems from the fact that it is reduced (like in cancer) or increased
(like in neurodegenerative diseases) in several clinical situations. Thus, chemicals that
can modify programmed cell death are likely to be potentially useful drugs. From foxglove,
which gave digitalis to the Pacific Yew from which came taxol, plants have been a source
of research material for useful drugs. Recently, a variety of plant extracts have been
investigated for their ability to influence the apoptotic process. This article discusses
some of the interesting data. The ability of plants to influence programmed cell death in
cancerous cells in an attempt to arrest their proliferation has been the topic of much
research. Various cell-lines like HL60, human hepatocellular carcinoma cell line (KIM-1),
a cholangiocarcinoma cell-line (KMC-1), B-cell hybridomas, U937 a monocytic cell-line,
HeLa cells, human lymphoid leukemia (MOLT-4B) cells and K562 cells have been studied. The
agents found to induce programmed cell death (measured either morphologically or flow
cytometrically) included extracts of plants like mistletoe and Semicarpus anacardium.
Isolated compounds like bryonolic acid (from Trichosanthes kirilowii var. Japonica, crocin
(from saffron) and allicin (from Allium sativum) have also been found to induce programmed
cell death and therefore arrest proliferation. Even Chinese herbal medicine
''Sho-saiko-to'' induces programmed cell death in selected cancerous cell lines. Of
considerable interest is the finding that Panax ginseng prevents irradiation-induced
programmed cell death in hair follicles, suggesting important therapeutic implications.
Nutraceuticals (dietary plants) like soya bean, garlic, ginger, green tea, etc. which have
been suggested, in epidemiological studies, to reduce the incidence of cancer may do so by
inducing programmed cell death. Soy bean extracts have been shown to prevent development
of diseases like polycystic kidneys, while Artemisia asiatica attenuates cerulein-induced
pancreatitis in rats. Interestingly enough, a number of food items as well as herbal
medicines have been reported to produce toxic effects by inducing programmed cell death.
For example, programmed cell death in isolated rat hepatocytes has been implicated in the
hepatitis induced by a herbal medicine containing diterpinoids from germander. Other
studies suggest that rapid progression of the betel- and tobacco-related oral squamous
cell carcinomas may be associated with a simultaneous involvement of p53 and c-myc leading
to inhibition of programmed cell death. Several mechanisms have been identified to
underlie the modulation of programmed cell death by plants including endonuclease
activation, induction of p53, activation of caspase 3 protease via a Bcl-2-insensitive
pathway, potentiate free-radical formation and accumulation of sphinganine. Programmed
cell death is a highly conserved mechanism of self-defense, also found to occur in plants.
Hence, it is natural to assume that chemicals must exist in them to regulate programmed
cell death in them. Thus, plants are likely to prove to be important sources of agents
that will modulate programmed cell death.
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Unsafe and potentially safe herbal therapies.
Klepser TB, Klepser ME
Am J Health Syst Pharm 1999 Jan 15 56:2 125-38; quiz 139-41
Abstract
Unsafe and potentially safe herbal therapies are discussed. The use of herbal therapies is
on the rise in the United States, but most pharmacists are not adequately prepared
educationally to meet patients' requests for information on herbal products. Pharmacists
must also cope with an environment in which there is relatively little regulation of
herbal therapies by FDA. Many herbs have been identified as unsafe, including borage,
calamus, coltsfoot, comfrey, life root, sassafras, chaparral, germander, licorice, and ma
huang. Potentially safe herbs include feverfew, garlic, ginkgo, Asian ginseng, saw
palmetto, St. John's wort, and valerian. Clinical trials have been used to evaluate
feverfew for migraine prevention and rheumatoid arthritis; garlic for hypertension,
hyperlipidemia, and infections; ginkgo for circulatory disturbances and dementia; ginseng
for fatigue and cancer prevention; and saw palmetto for benign prostatic hyperplasia. Also
studied in formal trials have been St. John's wort for depression and valerian for
insomnia. The clinical trial results are suggestive of efficacy of some herbal therapies
for some conditions. German Commission E, a regulatory body that evaluates the safety and
efficacy of herbs on the basis of clinical trials, cases, and other scientific literature,
has established indications and dosage recommendations for many herbal therapies.
Pharmacists have a responsibility to educate themselves about herbal therapies in order to
help patients discern the facts from the fiction, avoid harm, and gain what benefits may
be available.
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[Regazell-Energen: bioactivator in tumor treatment? Documentation No. 26 D]
Hauser SP, Allewelt MC
Schweiz Rundsch Med Prax 1996 Dec 17 85:51-52 1652-5
Abstract
Regazell-Energen (RE) is a combination of drinking vials which contain gelee royale,
ginseng, hawthorn, wheatgerm extract solved in mead, and capsules filled with mixed
pollen. RE is recommended for revitalization and regeneration, regulation and stimulation
of the immune system and in the early metaphylaxis of treated cancer patients. Two courses
during 40 days per year should be taken. RE has practically no side effects. Only
individuals with pollen allergy or alcohol intolerance should be cautious. A package for a
14-day course costs 170 Swiss francs. RE is produced by Bio-Naturkraft in Poing, Munich,
and research is supported by the German Society for Matrix Research. The president is
Prof. H. Heine from the Institute of Anatomy of the anthroposophic University
Witten-Herdecke. The bioactivator RE ist claimed to be a 'new, autonomous therapeutic
system' to 'increase physical and mental well-being ... helping to overcome stress and
immune defects'. Heine claims that RE acts decisively on the 'regulation of the matrix'
and fights cancer by activating the fibroblast-macrophage system via the healthy tissue.
The three clinical investigations on the effect of RE in the oncological aftercare contain
severe flaws in the collection of data and interpretation.
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A new medical trend in China.
Li CP
Am J Chin Med 1975 Jul 3:3 213-21
Abstract
Chinese biomedical scientists are now developing a new approach to medicine by combining
traditional Chinese medicine and Western biomedical science. This is the current medical
trend in China. Some significant results have already been achieved. For instance, in
treating fractures the traditional dexterity in coaxing broken ends of bones into
alignment has been successfully adopted, and x-ray has been used to check whether there
was accurate bone union. Heart diseases are treated with Western drugs in combination with
Chinese herbal medicine, and the results are encouraging. Ancient theories such as Fu Chen
Pei Ben (to strengthen the patient's vitality) are applied, for instance, in cancer
therapy, i.e., to stimulate the patient's appetite and to improve his general condition
with herbs while being treated with Western anti-cancer remedies. However, the Chinese
admit that this process has only just begun.
