Objectives:Despite progress in therapeutic interventions,squamous cell carcinoma of the oral cavity(OSCC)continues to pose a substantial burden on public health,with persistently poor patient outcomes.This investigati...Objectives:Despite progress in therapeutic interventions,squamous cell carcinoma of the oral cavity(OSCC)continues to pose a substantial burden on public health,with persistently poor patient outcomes.This investigation examines the growth-inhibitory and mechanistic effects of a plant-derived protein,Viscum album var.coloratum agglutinin(VCA),extracted from Korean mistletoe,against YD38 OSCC cells.Methods:The experimental protocols involved treating YD38 cells derived from human OSCC with escalating doses of VCA.Cell survival rates were quantified through 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide(MTT)colorimetric analysis.Changes in apoptotic indices and cell cycle distribution were evaluated using flow cytometric techniques.Protein expression patterns associated with programmed cell death were determined via Western blot analysis.Statistical evaluation including effect size calculations,dose-response modeling,and correlation analyses were conducted to comprehensively evaluate VCA’s effects.Results:VCA exhibited dose-dependent cytotoxicity against YD38 cells.Flow cytometry analysis revealed significant increases in both early and late apoptotic populations at 100 and 1000 ng/mL VCA,with Cohen’s d values of 15.15 and 30.24,respectively,indicating large biological effects.Cell cycle analysis showed significant alterations in cell cycle distribution,and Western blot analysis demonstrated increased levels of cleaved poly(ADP-ribose)polymerase(PARP)and cleaved caspase-3,indicating activation of the caspasedependent apoptotic pathway.Correlation analysis revealed strong relationships between different cellular responses(r>0.95),suggesting coordinated cellular responses to VCA treatment.Conclusion:This study demonstrates that VCA exhibits potent anti-cancer effects against YD38 OSCC cells through apoptosis induction and cell cycle modulation,with quantitative analyses revealing strong effect sizes and coordinated cellular responses.These results add to our understanding of natural compounds in oncology and indicate that VCA could be a promising candidate in OSCC treatment development.展开更多
Over the past decade,the presence of mistletoe(Viscum album ssp.austriacum)in Scots pine stands has increased in many European countries.Understanding the factors that influence the occurrence of mistletoe in stands i...Over the past decade,the presence of mistletoe(Viscum album ssp.austriacum)in Scots pine stands has increased in many European countries.Understanding the factors that influence the occurrence of mistletoe in stands is key to making appropriate forest management decisions to limit damage and prevent the spread of mistletoe in the future.Therefore,the main objective of this study was to determine the probability of mistletoe occurrence in Scots pine stands in relation to stand-related endogenous factors such as age,top height,and stand density,as well as topographic and edaphic factors.We used unmanned aerial vehicle(UAV)imagery from 2,247 stands to detect mistletoe in Scots pine stands,while majority stand and site characteristics were calculated from airborne laser scanning(ALS)data.Information on stand age and site type from the State Forest database were also used.We found that mistletoe infestation in Scots pine stands is influenced by stand and site characteristics.We documented that the densest,tallest,and oldest stands were more susceptible to mistletoe infestation.Site type and specific microsite conditions associated with topography were also important factors driving mistletoe occurrence.In addition,climatic water balance was a significant factor in increasing the probability of mistletoe occurrence,which is important in the context of predicted temperature increases associated with climate change.Our results are important for better understanding patterns of mistletoe infestation and ecosystem functioning under climate change.In an era of climate change and technological development,the use of remote sensing methods to determine the risk of mistletoe infestation can be a very useful tool for managing forest ecosystems to maintain forest sustainability and prevent forest disturbance.展开更多
Snowed Up:A Mistletoe Story,a previously unpublished short story of Richard Jefferies,has been studied from many different approaches,but few papers discuss it from the perspective of Deconstruction.This paper will de...Snowed Up:A Mistletoe Story,a previously unpublished short story of Richard Jefferies,has been studied from many different approaches,but few papers discuss it from the perspective of Deconstruction.This paper will deconstruct Snowed Up:A Mistletoe Story from three binary oppositions:1) the upper class and the lower class;2) nature and civilization;3) Edie' s inner voice and her actual behavior.Besides,this paper will also try to deconstruct the traditional patriarchy through Edie ' s papa.Analyzing this novel from deconstructive approach will provide readers a deep insight into Richard Jefferies work.展开更多
AIM:To investigate the potential role of Active Chinese mistletoe lectin-55 (ACML-55) in tumor immune surveillance. METHODS: In this study, an experimental model was established by hypodermic inoculating the colon can...AIM:To investigate the potential role of Active Chinese mistletoe lectin-55 (ACML-55) in tumor immune surveillance. METHODS: In this study, an experimental model was established by hypodermic inoculating the colon cancer cell line CT26 (5 × 105 cells) into BALB/c mice. The experimental treatment was orally administered with ACML-55 or PBS, followed by the inoculation of colon cancer cell line CT26. Intracellular cytokine staining was used to detect IFN-γ production by tumor antigen specific CD8+ T cells. FACS analysis was employed to profi le composition and activation of CD4+, CD8+, γδ T and NK cells. RESULTS: Our results showed, compared to PBS treated mice, ACML-55 treatment signifi cantly delayed colon cancer development in colon cancer -bearingBalb/c mice in vivo. Treatment with ACML-55 enhanced both Ag specifi c activation and proliferation of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells, and increased the number of tumor Ag specific CD8+ T cells. It was more important to increase the frequency of tumor Ag specific IFN-γ producing-CD8+ T cells. Interestingly, ACML-55 treatment also showed increased cell number of NK, and γδT cells, indicating the role of ACML-55 in activation of innate lymphocytes. CONCLUSION: Our results demonstrate that ACML-55 therapy can enhance function in immune surveillance in colon cancer-bearing mice through regulating both innate and adaptive immune responses.展开更多
Objective:To justify the use of African mistletoe(AM) Viscum album {V.album) in folkoric medicine to treat diabetes.Methods:In one experiment,the fasting blood glucose(FBG) leveb of diabetic rats were monitored for 4 ...Objective:To justify the use of African mistletoe(AM) Viscum album {V.album) in folkoric medicine to treat diabetes.Methods:In one experiment,the fasting blood glucose(FBG) leveb of diabetic rats were monitored for 4 h.Diabetic rats were treated with AM at doses of 50 mg/kg(AM1) and 100 mg/kg(AM2),glibenclamide(GB)(positive control) and saline solution(SS).In another experiment,diabetic rats were treated with AM2,GB and SS daily for 3 weeks.Results:AM1 and AM2 elicited significant(P【0.05) hypoglycaemic effects within 4 h of extract administration. AM1 and AM2 decreased the FBG by 41%and 49%,respectively,at 2 h.AM2 was found to lower FBC by 51%,relative to baseline,which was comparable to GB at 3 h.In the second experiment, AM2 and GB significantly(P【0.05) decreased the FBG by 34%and 51%,respectively.This was followed by marked decrease in levels of HbAlC in AM2- and GB- treated diabetic rats.AM2 significantly(P【0.05) decreased the STZ-induced increase in levels of serum triglyceride,urea, lactate dehydrogenase,α-amylase and low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol.Furthermore, diabetic rats treated with AM2 had significanlly(P【0.05) elevated high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol. In contrast,STZ administration produced insignificant(P【0.05) effect on the levels of serum creatinine and total bilirubin.Conclusions:Extract of African mistletoe has anti-diabetic and anti-hyperlipidemic effects in STZ-diabetic rats.AM may find clinical application in the amelioration of diabetes-induced lipid disorders.展开更多
AIM： To explore the antioxidant and free radica scavenger properties of mistletoe alkali （MA）. METHODS： The antioxidant effect of mistletoe alkali on the oxidative stress induced by carbon tetrachloride （CCh） in...AIM： To explore the antioxidant and free radica scavenger properties of mistletoe alkali （MA）. METHODS： The antioxidant effect of mistletoe alkali on the oxidative stress induced by carbon tetrachloride （CCh） in rats was investigated. The rats were divided into four groups （n = 8）： CCh-treated group （1 mL/kg body weight）, MA -treated group （90 mg/kg）, CCh＋MA-treated group and normal control group. After 4 wk of treatment, the level of malondialdehyde （MDA）, a lipid peroxidation product （LPO） was measured in serum and homogenates of liver and kidney. Also, the level of glutathione （GSH）, and activities of glutathione reductase （GR）, glutathione peroxidase （GSPx）, superoxide dismutase （SOD）, and glutathione-S-transferase （GST） in liver and kidney were determined. Scavenging effects on hydroxyl free radicals produced in vitro by Fenton reaction were studied by ESR methods using 5,5-dimethyl-1-pyrroline-N-oxide （DMPO） as a spin trap reagent and H2O2/UV as the OH· source. Urinary 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine （8-OHdG） was determined by competitive ELISA. RESULTS： In CCh-treated group, the level of LPO in serum of liver and kidney was significantly increased compared to controls. The levels of GSH and enzyme activities of SOD, GSPx and GR in liver and kidney were significantly decreased in comparison with controls. In CCl4＋MA-treated group, the changes in the levels of LPO in serum of liver and kidney were not statistically significant compared to controls. The levels of SOD, GSPx and GR in liver and kidney were significantly increased in comparison with controls. There was a significant differ- ence in urinary excretion of 8-OHdG between the CCh- treated and MA-treated groups. CONCLUSION： Oxidative stress may be a major mechanism for the toxicity of CCh. MA has a protective effect against CCl4 toxicity by inhibiting the oxidative damage and stimulating GST activities. Thus, clinical application of MA should be considered in cases with carbon tetrachloride-induced injury.展开更多
Objective:In our continued efforts to isolate the active immunomodulatory and antiviral constituents of Loranthus micranthus Linn parasitic on Kola acuminata,we set out to fractionate the crude aqueous methanol extrac...Objective:In our continued efforts to isolate the active immunomodulatory and antiviral constituents of Loranthus micranthus Linn parasitic on Kola acuminata,we set out to fractionate the crude aqueous methanol extract of the plant.The establishment of the most potent fraction(s) as well as the isolation of the pure active secondary metabolite responsible for the immune stimulatory and antiviral activities in Eastern Nigeria mistletoe has become very needful.This will enable us prove our assumption that this particular specie is different from the European version,Viscum album.Methods:Five solvents of varying polarity namely n-hexane,chloroform, ethylacetate,acetone and methanol were successively employed in the complete fractionation of the crude aqueous -methanol extract of Eastern Nigerian mistletoe,Loranthus micranthus Linn.,harvested from Kola acuminata in that order.The fractions were dried in-vacuo using a rotary evaporator maintained at a temperature of(40±5)℃.The different fractions were screened for immunomodulatory activity using a universal model:the cellular - mediated delayed type hypersensivity test in experimental mice.This was performed by administering two different dose levels:250 mg/kg and 500 mg/kg of each fraction against standard positive and negative control. Results:Results of the study established dose-dependent immunostimulatory(upregulatory) effects of the five fractions of the extract as the model used in the study with different percentage stimulations compared to controls.At the dose levels of 500 mg/kg and 250 mg/kg body weight,the percentage stimulation observed were as following:chloroform fraction 311.11%and 122.22%,ethyl acetate fraction 193.38%and 95. 56%,n-hexane 155.56%and 3.50%,acetone fraction 95.56%and 51.11%and methanol fraction 68. 89%and 24.44%respectively.Levamisole,a known potent immunostimulant,afforded a stimulation of 68. 89%at a dose of 2.5 mg/kg.Conclusion:The study showed that the order of immunomodulatory potency is chloroform fraction > ethylacetate fraction > hexane fraction > acetone fraction > methanol fraction.Bioassayguided fractionation and purification of the active extracts led to the isolation of pure compounds phytochemically characterized as sterols and flavonoids.This work indicates that the main constituents of our local mistletoe responsible for immunostimulation are the flavonoids,terpenoids and or steroids.Glycosides,carbohydrates, tannins and alkaoids appear to augment the measured activities.展开更多
To observe the effect of Fufang Jisheng Liujin Gao （复方寄生流浸膏 Compound Mistletoe Fluidextract） on blood pressure in the spontaneous hypertensive rats （SHR） and the renal hypertensive dogs （RHD）. Methods： T...To observe the effect of Fufang Jisheng Liujin Gao （复方寄生流浸膏 Compound Mistletoe Fluidextract） on blood pressure in the spontaneous hypertensive rats （SHR） and the renal hypertensive dogs （RHD）. Methods： The blood pressure-decreasing effects of single administration and 14-day consecutive administration of Compound Mistletoe Fluidextract （CMF） in SHR and RHD were investigated and compared with that of Niuhuang Jiangya Wan （牛黄降压丸 Bezoar Hypertension-relieving Pills）. Results： Both single administration and 14-day consecutive administration of CMF had significant hypotensive effects in SHR and RHD. Conclusion： The hypotensive action of CMF is gradual, but lasts for a longer period, with a dose-effect relationship in a range of doses.展开更多
Objective:To provide further evidence for the ethnomedicinal use of the Eastern Nigeria mistletoe,Loranthus micranthus(L.micranthus),as an immunostimulant.Methods:Solvent fractions from the crude extract of the mistle...Objective:To provide further evidence for the ethnomedicinal use of the Eastern Nigeria mistletoe,Loranthus micranthus(L.micranthus),as an immunostimulant.Methods:Solvent fractions from the crude extract of the mistletoe plant was obtained and screened by the cell mediated delayed type hypersensitivity reaction(DTHR) model in mice.Then the immunomodulatory potentials of a major lupane triterpenoid ester isolated from an active hexane fraction of the Eastern Nigeria mistletoe was investigated.Three lupeol-based triterpenoid esters: 7β15α-dihydroxyl-lup-20(29)-ene-3β-palmitate(Ⅰ),7β,15α-dihydroxyl-lup-20(29)- ene-3β-stearate(Ⅱ) and 7β,15α-dihydroxyl-lup-20(29)-ene-3β-decadecanoate(Ⅲ) were isolated from the plant leaves epiphyting on a local kola nut tree and were characterized. Compound 1 was subjected to cell proliferation studies using C57H1/6 splenocvtes at three dose levels(5.25 and 100μg/mL) in presence of controls.Furthermore,the effect of this compound on IL-8 receptor expression was evaluated at three doses(1,5 and 10μg/mL) using the real time polymerase chain reaction assay.Results:This triterpenoid ester produced some enhancement of the splenocytes at the tested doses but at doses higher than 5μg/mL caused inhibition of the IL-8 receptor expression.Conclusions:The present findings support the ethnomedicinal use of the Eastern Nigeria Mistletoe in the management of diseases affecting the immune system.The trilerpenoid(s) have some immunomodulatory abilities on splenocytes and IL-8 receptors and may partly account lor the overall immunomodulatory activity of this plant.展开更多
A novel polypeptide named as defensin CM was isolated from Chinese mistletoe, Viscum coloratura （Kom.） Nakai. The amino acid sequence was determined by the combination of Edman degradation, endoproteinase Lys-C dige...A novel polypeptide named as defensin CM was isolated from Chinese mistletoe, Viscum coloratura （Kom.） Nakai. The amino acid sequence was determined by the combination of Edman degradation, endoproteinase Lys-C digestion, and MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry. The primary structure was ATCSAPSGRF KGACFSSNTC SNICKTLEGL KDGHCTGLAC YCSRNC.展开更多
Three viscotoxins have been isolated from Chinese mistletoe, Viscum coloratura （Kom.） Nakai. The primary structures were determined unambiguously by the combination of Edman degradation, endoproteinase Elu-c digesti...Three viscotoxins have been isolated from Chinese mistletoe, Viscum coloratura （Kom.） Nakai. The primary structures were determined unambiguously by the combination of Edman degradation, endoproteinase Elu-c digestion, and Q-TOF mass spectrometry. One was identified as viscotoxin C1, which was for the first time isolated from Chinese mistletoe. The other two were new polypeptides, named as viscotoxin B5 and viscotoxin B8. Pharmacological studies showed that the polypeptides exhibit distinct cytotoxicity to human cancer cells.展开更多
Loranthus micranthus is the species of mistletoe peculiar to the eastern province of Nigeria.It has been shown to possess anti-diabetic,anumotility,antimicrobial and antihypertensive activities which are host-tree dep...Loranthus micranthus is the species of mistletoe peculiar to the eastern province of Nigeria.It has been shown to possess anti-diabetic,anumotility,antimicrobial and antihypertensive activities which are host-tree dependent. The antimicrobial activity was found to vary with the season during which the plant was harvested.We are of the opinion that this species should possess immunomodulating potentials as have been reported for the European species,Viscum album.In our efforts to establish the bio-activities and active principles in our local mistletoe, the immunomodulatory activity of n-hexane and methanol extracts from Loranthus micranthus parasitic on Persea americana was assessed at three dose levels ranging from 100 to 400 mg/kg body weight using delayed type hypersensitivity reaction(DTHR) and cyclophosphamide-induced myelosuppression models in mice.This was compared with responses from a standard immunostimulatory drug,levamisole.Preliminary phytochemical analysis of the plant showed the presence of tannins,flavonoids,alkaloids,terpenoids,carbohydrates and saponins.Regression analysis indicated a dose-dependent response relationship in the parameters measured with over 170%increase for both extracts at the highest dose level.The one way ANOVA test showed significant variation in the parameters between the controls and the different dose levels.However,at 95%confidence level,(P【0.05),there was no statistically significant difference between the two extracts, an indication that the active immunomodulant(s) could be both in the polar and non-polar crude extract.In conclusion,the present results have established some immune stimulating actions of the Eastern Nigeria mistletoe, Loranthus micranthus thus indicating that this variant of the semi parasitic plant holds a strong promise as an immunostimulatory candidate.There is therefore,a basis for further detailed investigation on the fractions and specific constituents.Thus,these extracts from Loranthus micranthus possess pronounced immune stimulating action comparable to Levamisole in mouse-based models.展开更多
The parasitic plant dwarf mistletoe(Arceuthobium) is currently one of the most threatening infestations of coniferous forests worldwide,especially in Eurasia and North America,but its population dynamics in relation t...The parasitic plant dwarf mistletoe(Arceuthobium) is currently one of the most threatening infestations of coniferous forests worldwide,especially in Eurasia and North America,but its population dynamics in relation to one of its hosts(spruce) remain unclear.Here,toward understanding the population dynamics,differential equations were used to construct a life history model for the two populations,and two relatively independent subsystems,host and parasite,were generated from their symbiotic relationships.A suspected-infection model was used to couple them.The resulting models were used to analyze structural changes in the forest.When each infected spruce was assumed to support 1000 parasite shoots,the spruce population first increased rapidly,then slows.When 2000 parasite shoots were assumed,the forest declined dramatically,slipping to zero in the 10 th year,and the spruce seedlings were unable to regenerate.Parasite shoot population curves transformed from exponential J-shapes to logistic S-shapes,reaching population limitations as germination rates changed.These results provide important clues to understanding developmental trends of the present parasite population and will assist in reconstructing invasion histories.展开更多
AIM： To investigate the protective effect of mistletoe combined with carboxymethyl cellulose eye drops on dry eye in postmenopausal women.METHODS： Sixty postmenopause female patients diagnosed of dry eye were assign...AIM： To investigate the protective effect of mistletoe combined with carboxymethyl cellulose eye drops on dry eye in postmenopausal women.METHODS： Sixty postmenopause female patients diagnosed of dry eye were assigned randomly to mistletoe combined with carboxymethyl cellulose eye drops treatment group（n=30） and control group treated with normal saline eye drops（n=30）. The subjective symptoms of ocular surface, Ocular Surface Disease Index（OSDI）, tear film function tests, tear protein and corneal morphology by confocal scanning microscopy were analyzed before treatment and at 1, 2, 4 and 8 wk after treatment respectively. To ensure the safety of the trial, all patients were examined with systolic pressure, diastolic pressure, glutamic-pyruvic transaminase, glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase, urine creatinine, and blood urea nitrogen at 8 wk after treatment.RESULTS： There were no obvious differences between two groups before the treatment（P〉0.05）. In two months after the treatment, the symptoms of ocular surface, OSDI, tear protein, and tear film function were only slightly changed in normal saline eye drops group. However, all indices were improved after the treatment of mistletoe combined with carboxymethyl cellulose eye drops group（P〈0.05）. In addition, the average amount of corneal epithelium basal cells and inflammatory cells of mistletoe treated group were 3174±379 and 38±25 cells/mm2, significantly decreased as compared to the control group with 4309±612 and 158± 61 cells/mm2, respectively. In the control group, althoughnerves still maintained straight under corneal epithelium, the number of nerves were significantly decreased, as compared with normal female. In the mistletoe treated group, the number of nerves was only slightly reduced, compared with normal female.CONCLUSION： Mistletoe combined with carboxymethyl cellulose eye drops can alleviate the symptoms and signs of dry eye symptoms.展开更多
Objectives:Among cutaneous malignancies,melanoma stands out for its particularly aggressive nature,with therapeutic interventions becoming notably limited once the disease progresses.In this research,we investigate th...Objectives:Among cutaneous malignancies,melanoma stands out for its particularly aggressive nature,with therapeutic interventions becoming notably limited once the disease progresses.In this research,we investigate the tumor-suppressing capabilities of water-extracted Korean mistletoe(Viscum album var.coloratum)and its purified lectin component(V.album var.coloratum agglutinin,VCA)using two distinct mouse melanoma models:B16BL6 and B16F10 cell lines.Methods:The impact of water extract and VCA treatments on melanoma cells was assessed through multiple experimental approaches,examining cellular survival rates,programmed cell death pathways,multicaspase activity,and cell cycle distribution patterns.To elucidate the interconnections among various cellular responses,we employed a suite of statistical techniques encompassing correlation studies,principal component analysis(PCA)-based dimensionality reduction,and dendrogram-based clusteringmethodologies.Results:Thewater extract exhibited dosedependent cytotoxicity with IC50 values of 372.3±8.7μg/mL and 202.5±8.4μg/mL for B16BL6 and B16F10 cells,respectively.VCA showed more significant effects,with IC50 values of 0.1992±0.0041 and 0.1981±0.0098μg/mL for B16BL6 and B16F10 cells,respectively.Both agents induced substantial apoptosis with a significant progression from early to late apoptotic stages,reaching up to 59.4%total apoptotic cells for VCA treatment.This was confirmed by strong multicaspase activation,particularly in VCA-treated cells(up to 88.4%caspase-positive cells).The water extract showed modest effects on cell cycle distribution,with increases in G0/G1 phase(74.6%)in B16BL6 cells and S phase(19.2%)in B16F10 cells,while VCA treatment resulted in G2/M phase reduction(10.0%)in B16F10 cells.Correlation analysis revealed strong negative associations between cell viability and caspase activity(r=−0.843 to−0.878),while hierarchical clustering demonstrated distinct response patterns between low and high concentrations of both agents.Effect size analysis confirmed strong treatment impacts on cell viability(d=−5.89 to−6.12)and caspase activation(d=3.45 to 5.23).Conclusion:These findings suggest that Korean mistletoe water extract and its isolated lectin may affect both primary and metastatic melanoma cells through distinct mechanisms,demonstrating particular potency in caspase-dependent apoptosis induction.Our findings establish a robust foundation for developing novel therapeutic interventions derived from natural compounds to combat malignant melanoma with high metastatic potential.展开更多
Background:Mistletoes are the most successful group of obligatory hemi-parasitic flowering plants that attach to the host via haustorium for obtaining water and minerals.This review aims to assess the current knowledg...Background:Mistletoes are the most successful group of obligatory hemi-parasitic flowering plants that attach to the host via haustorium for obtaining water and minerals.This review aims to assess the current knowledge on mistle-toes host plant recognition,haustorium formation,water/minerals acquisition,and host plants’defense signaling and responses against mistletoe attack.Results:Some mistletoes are host-specific while others are generalists occurring on a wide range of vascular plants.The host nitrogen(N)content,parasite–host chemical interactions,compatibility,and dispersal agents are the main determinant factors for host specificity.Mistletoes take up substantial amounts of water and minerals passively via apoplastic routes,and most are xylem feeders,but could shift to phloem-feeding during the physiological stress of the host plants.Current evidence highlighted that cell wall loosening and modification are critical during the development of the haustorium in the host tissue.This is made possible by the application of physical pressures by the developing haustorium and cell wall degradation using enzymes(xyloglucan endotransglycosylases,glucanase,expansins,etc.)produced by the mistletoe.Host plants defend against mistletoe infection mechanically by producing spines,lignin,suberin,etc.,which discourages dispersers,and chemically defend by killing the infector or inhibiting the establishment of the haustorium using their secondary metabolites such as terpenes,phenolics,and N-containing compounds.Although the host plants’response to mistletoe attack resembles the response to other biotic stresses,unlike short-term stressors,the effect of mistletoe attack is long-term and depends on the parasite load.Infection by mistletoe leads to water and nutrient stress of the host plant and deteriorates its healthy establishment and survival.Conclusion:Mistletoes are heterogeneous group in the order Santalales which have versatile mechanisms for pollination,seed dispersal and nutrient acquisition from host plants.Infection by mistletoes triggers host plant responses,varying from mechanical to chemical mechanisms which are analogous to herbivory defences,and negatively impacts host plant growth and reproduction.展开更多
Aims While the influence of mistletoe-host interactions on each other’s evolution is well-recognized,the role of interactions between mis-tletoes and its mutualistic pollinators and seed dispersers mediated by host s...Aims While the influence of mistletoe-host interactions on each other’s evolution is well-recognized,the role of interactions between mis-tletoes and its mutualistic pollinators and seed dispersers mediated by host species is relatively unexplored.Methods Here,we examine the effects of host species(Mexican hawthorn Crataegus mexicana DC,black cherry Prunus serotina Ehrh.,leather-leaf Mexican oak Quercus crassipes Bonpl.)on flower morphology,nectar production,pollinator visitation rate and female reproduct-ive fitness in hemiparasitic Mexican mistletoe Psittacanthus caly-culatus(DC.)G.Don(Loranthaceae)populations at three different locations.We first measured the lengths of corolla,style,stamen,exerted stamen and anther,the length and width of the ovary and nectar availability for mistletoe flowers in natural populations.Then,we evaluated flower visitation and measured(length and width)and weighed the fruits and its seeds of mistletoes growing on each of the three host species.Finally,we evaluated the effects of host species,location and flower traits on fruit or seed size variation(both as proxies of reproductive fitness).Important Findings We found mistletoes growing on natural hosts P.serotina and Q.crassipes produced larger flowers,fruits and seeds than mistle-toes on cultivated C.mexicana.However,these differences varied across space.The amount of available nectar and hummingbird vis-itation rates in flowers of mistletoes on C.mexicana was higher at the three sites than in flowers of mistletoes on P.serotina or Q.cras-sipes.The effects of host species,study site and floral trait covariates affected significantly all fitness measures,indicating that mistletoes’reproductive fitness is affected differently depending on the host species and their site of occurrence.These host-associated differ-ences in reproduction might have implications for interactions with mutualistic vectors.展开更多
This work evaluated the effect of air atmosphere packaging and modified atmosphere packaging on the quality and nutritional compounds of dried mistletoe leaves during 4 months of storage at 4 and 25℃ temperatures.Mis...This work evaluated the effect of air atmosphere packaging and modified atmosphere packaging on the quality and nutritional compounds of dried mistletoe leaves during 4 months of storage at 4 and 25℃ temperatures.Mistletoe leaves packaged with modified atmosphere had improved nutritional qualities overall as compared to mistletoe leaves packaged with atmosphere air.At the end of the storage period,water activity values of all samples increased by 0.72%-3.38%.Before storage,the dried mistletoe leaves’total phenolic content was determined to be 301.73±2.49 mg GAE/100 g dry matter.The total phenolic content of the samples decreased by 62.00%-71.96%after four months of storage.It was determined that the highest loss of total phenolic content was observed at room temperature(25℃)and in the samples packaged with normal atmospheric air.Total antioxidant activity values in MAP2 samples decreased by 23.82%after four months when kept at low temperatures,but the loss was calculated to be 34.48%in cases where they were kept at room temperature.Ascorbic acid content losses in AP,MAP1,and MAP2 samples kept at room temperature were 21.48%,15.90%,and 14.72%,respectively.In the samples stored at low temperatures,these loss rates were calculated as 16.62%,13.05%,and 12.05%,respectively.No single model was satisfactory for describing changes in ascorbic acid content,which could not be determined in the samples stored at both 4℃ and 25℃.The dried mistletoe leaves modified atmosphere packed and stored at low temperatures provided the highest bioactive compound retention.展开更多
Semiparasitic plants, mistletoes, distributed in Europe and East-Asia mainly, China, Korea and Japan have long been recognised as therapeutic herbs. Since the 1920s, extracts from European mistletoe （Viscum album L）...Semiparasitic plants, mistletoes, distributed in Europe and East-Asia mainly, China, Korea and Japan have long been recognised as therapeutic herbs. Since the 1920s, extracts from European mistletoe （Viscum album L） have been popular in Europe as an unconventional cancer treatment. These extracts have been used in adjuvant cancer therapy because their immunostimulatory, cytostatic/cytotoxic and DNA stabilising activities. The main biological activities are addressed to sugar binding proteins, the Mistletoe Lectins, and to micro proteins named viscotoxins. The mistletoe lectins are members of the family of toxic lectins and recognize sugars and glycoconjugates containing galactose and/or N-acetyl-galactosamine groups. In vitro and in vivo assays confirm that the mistletoe lectins, isolated from the plant and compared with recombinant forms, play an important role as biologically active principles in mistletoe extracts. Limited experimental evidence indicates that other components like glycosides, polysaccharides, amines etc, may also have anticancer activity. Under discussion in Europe is the principal question of using holo plant extracts or single component lectin preparations： wild type lectins or recombinant ones in cancer therapy. Finally problems of preparation, characterization and standardization of commercial mistletoe preparations and evaluation of biological activities are discussed.展开更多
Mistletoes are parasite plants growing on various tree species,taking nutrients from the host.Beneficial compounds of mistletoe were used in medicine and these mistletoes were commonly collected from oak species that ...Mistletoes are parasite plants growing on various tree species,taking nutrients from the host.Beneficial compounds of mistletoe were used in medicine and these mistletoes were commonly collected from oak species that were not well identified.We analyzed the nutritional value by measuring proximate and mineral components of Korean mistletoe(Viscum album var.coloratum)from various host trees.Carbohydrate was the most proximate component in both leaves and twigs followed crude protein,crude fiber,crude ash and crude fat.While the contents of the proximate components and minerals varied among hosts and between plant parts,leaves contained higher crude protein and ash,and more minerals except for magnesium than twigs,although no significant difference was found inmistletoe grown on Prunus mandshurica.There were significant differences of proximate and mineral contents depending on the host species.Mistletoe grown on Chaenomeles sinensis contained higher levels of carbohydrates,crude fat,crude ash,magnesium,calcium,sodium,iron,and zinc than mistletoe grown on other species.Mistletoe grown on P.mandshurica contained high mineral levels of potassium,copper and phosphorous.The nutritional value of mistletoes were greatly influenced by the host species but among the hosts,specific nutrients accumulated in leaves more than in twigs,and vice versa.Based on the analysis,Korean mistletoe contains relatively good quality of nutrients and has high potential for dietary supplements as well as for medicinal compounds.展开更多
文摘Objectives:Despite progress in therapeutic interventions,squamous cell carcinoma of the oral cavity(OSCC)continues to pose a substantial burden on public health,with persistently poor patient outcomes.This investigation examines the growth-inhibitory and mechanistic effects of a plant-derived protein,Viscum album var.coloratum agglutinin(VCA),extracted from Korean mistletoe,against YD38 OSCC cells.Methods:The experimental protocols involved treating YD38 cells derived from human OSCC with escalating doses of VCA.Cell survival rates were quantified through 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide(MTT)colorimetric analysis.Changes in apoptotic indices and cell cycle distribution were evaluated using flow cytometric techniques.Protein expression patterns associated with programmed cell death were determined via Western blot analysis.Statistical evaluation including effect size calculations,dose-response modeling,and correlation analyses were conducted to comprehensively evaluate VCA’s effects.Results:VCA exhibited dose-dependent cytotoxicity against YD38 cells.Flow cytometry analysis revealed significant increases in both early and late apoptotic populations at 100 and 1000 ng/mL VCA,with Cohen’s d values of 15.15 and 30.24,respectively,indicating large biological effects.Cell cycle analysis showed significant alterations in cell cycle distribution,and Western blot analysis demonstrated increased levels of cleaved poly(ADP-ribose)polymerase(PARP)and cleaved caspase-3,indicating activation of the caspasedependent apoptotic pathway.Correlation analysis revealed strong relationships between different cellular responses(r>0.95),suggesting coordinated cellular responses to VCA treatment.Conclusion:This study demonstrates that VCA exhibits potent anti-cancer effects against YD38 OSCC cells through apoptosis induction and cell cycle modulation,with quantitative analyses revealing strong effect sizes and coordinated cellular responses.These results add to our understanding of natural compounds in oncology and indicate that VCA could be a promising candidate in OSCC treatment development.
基金funded by National Science Centre,Poland under the project"Assessment of the impact of weather conditions on forest health status and forest disturbances at regional and national scale based on the integration of ground and space-based remote sensing datasets"(project no.2021/41/B/ST10/)Data collection and research was also supported by the project no.EZ.271.3.19.2021"Modele ryzyka zamierania drzewostanow glownych gatunkow lasotworczych Polski"funded by the General Directorate of State Forests in Poland。
文摘Over the past decade,the presence of mistletoe(Viscum album ssp.austriacum)in Scots pine stands has increased in many European countries.Understanding the factors that influence the occurrence of mistletoe in stands is key to making appropriate forest management decisions to limit damage and prevent the spread of mistletoe in the future.Therefore,the main objective of this study was to determine the probability of mistletoe occurrence in Scots pine stands in relation to stand-related endogenous factors such as age,top height,and stand density,as well as topographic and edaphic factors.We used unmanned aerial vehicle(UAV)imagery from 2,247 stands to detect mistletoe in Scots pine stands,while majority stand and site characteristics were calculated from airborne laser scanning(ALS)data.Information on stand age and site type from the State Forest database were also used.We found that mistletoe infestation in Scots pine stands is influenced by stand and site characteristics.We documented that the densest,tallest,and oldest stands were more susceptible to mistletoe infestation.Site type and specific microsite conditions associated with topography were also important factors driving mistletoe occurrence.In addition,climatic water balance was a significant factor in increasing the probability of mistletoe occurrence,which is important in the context of predicted temperature increases associated with climate change.Our results are important for better understanding patterns of mistletoe infestation and ecosystem functioning under climate change.In an era of climate change and technological development,the use of remote sensing methods to determine the risk of mistletoe infestation can be a very useful tool for managing forest ecosystems to maintain forest sustainability and prevent forest disturbance.
文摘Snowed Up:A Mistletoe Story,a previously unpublished short story of Richard Jefferies,has been studied from many different approaches,but few papers discuss it from the perspective of Deconstruction.This paper will deconstruct Snowed Up:A Mistletoe Story from three binary oppositions:1) the upper class and the lower class;2) nature and civilization;3) Edie' s inner voice and her actual behavior.Besides,this paper will also try to deconstruct the traditional patriarchy through Edie ' s papa.Analyzing this novel from deconstructive approach will provide readers a deep insight into Richard Jefferies work.
基金The National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.30471593 and No. 30670939the Shanghai Leading Academic Discipline Project,No.T0206+1 种基金the Shanghai Commission of Science and Technology,No.07JC14033the Shanghai Institute of Immunology Project,No.07-A02
文摘AIM:To investigate the potential role of Active Chinese mistletoe lectin-55 (ACML-55) in tumor immune surveillance. METHODS: In this study, an experimental model was established by hypodermic inoculating the colon cancer cell line CT26 (5 × 105 cells) into BALB/c mice. The experimental treatment was orally administered with ACML-55 or PBS, followed by the inoculation of colon cancer cell line CT26. Intracellular cytokine staining was used to detect IFN-γ production by tumor antigen specific CD8+ T cells. FACS analysis was employed to profi le composition and activation of CD4+, CD8+, γδ T and NK cells. RESULTS: Our results showed, compared to PBS treated mice, ACML-55 treatment signifi cantly delayed colon cancer development in colon cancer -bearingBalb/c mice in vivo. Treatment with ACML-55 enhanced both Ag specifi c activation and proliferation of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells, and increased the number of tumor Ag specific CD8+ T cells. It was more important to increase the frequency of tumor Ag specific IFN-γ producing-CD8+ T cells. Interestingly, ACML-55 treatment also showed increased cell number of NK, and γδT cells, indicating the role of ACML-55 in activation of innate lymphocytes. CONCLUSION: Our results demonstrate that ACML-55 therapy can enhance function in immune surveillance in colon cancer-bearing mice through regulating both innate and adaptive immune responses.
基金sapported by 3 months visiting fellowship (Ref.32402047975)from TWAS-UNESCO Associateship progranneIran National Science Foundation
文摘Objective:To justify the use of African mistletoe(AM) Viscum album {V.album) in folkoric medicine to treat diabetes.Methods:In one experiment,the fasting blood glucose(FBG) leveb of diabetic rats were monitored for 4 h.Diabetic rats were treated with AM at doses of 50 mg/kg(AM1) and 100 mg/kg(AM2),glibenclamide(GB)(positive control) and saline solution(SS).In another experiment,diabetic rats were treated with AM2,GB and SS daily for 3 weeks.Results:AM1 and AM2 elicited significant(P【0.05) hypoglycaemic effects within 4 h of extract administration. AM1 and AM2 decreased the FBG by 41%and 49%,respectively,at 2 h.AM2 was found to lower FBC by 51%,relative to baseline,which was comparable to GB at 3 h.In the second experiment, AM2 and GB significantly(P【0.05) decreased the FBG by 34%and 51%,respectively.This was followed by marked decrease in levels of HbAlC in AM2- and GB- treated diabetic rats.AM2 significantly(P【0.05) decreased the STZ-induced increase in levels of serum triglyceride,urea, lactate dehydrogenase,α-amylase and low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol.Furthermore, diabetic rats treated with AM2 had significanlly(P【0.05) elevated high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol. In contrast,STZ administration produced insignificant(P【0.05) effect on the levels of serum creatinine and total bilirubin.Conclusions:Extract of African mistletoe has anti-diabetic and anti-hyperlipidemic effects in STZ-diabetic rats.AM may find clinical application in the amelioration of diabetes-induced lipid disorders.
基金Supported by Chinese Medicine Technology Item of Beijing City, China, No.JJ 2004-12Beijing Municipal Commission of Education, No. M200610025003
文摘AIM： To explore the antioxidant and free radica scavenger properties of mistletoe alkali （MA）. METHODS： The antioxidant effect of mistletoe alkali on the oxidative stress induced by carbon tetrachloride （CCh） in rats was investigated. The rats were divided into four groups （n = 8）： CCh-treated group （1 mL/kg body weight）, MA -treated group （90 mg/kg）, CCh＋MA-treated group and normal control group. After 4 wk of treatment, the level of malondialdehyde （MDA）, a lipid peroxidation product （LPO） was measured in serum and homogenates of liver and kidney. Also, the level of glutathione （GSH）, and activities of glutathione reductase （GR）, glutathione peroxidase （GSPx）, superoxide dismutase （SOD）, and glutathione-S-transferase （GST） in liver and kidney were determined. Scavenging effects on hydroxyl free radicals produced in vitro by Fenton reaction were studied by ESR methods using 5,5-dimethyl-1-pyrroline-N-oxide （DMPO） as a spin trap reagent and H2O2/UV as the OH· source. Urinary 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine （8-OHdG） was determined by competitive ELISA. RESULTS： In CCh-treated group, the level of LPO in serum of liver and kidney was significantly increased compared to controls. The levels of GSH and enzyme activities of SOD, GSPx and GR in liver and kidney were significantly decreased in comparison with controls. In CCl4＋MA-treated group, the changes in the levels of LPO in serum of liver and kidney were not statistically significant compared to controls. The levels of SOD, GSPx and GR in liver and kidney were significantly increased in comparison with controls. There was a significant differ- ence in urinary excretion of 8-OHdG between the CCh- treated and MA-treated groups. CONCLUSION： Oxidative stress may be a major mechanism for the toxicity of CCh. MA has a protective effect against CCl4 toxicity by inhibiting the oxidative damage and stimulating GST activities. Thus, clinical application of MA should be considered in cases with carbon tetrachloride-induced injury.
文摘Objective:In our continued efforts to isolate the active immunomodulatory and antiviral constituents of Loranthus micranthus Linn parasitic on Kola acuminata,we set out to fractionate the crude aqueous methanol extract of the plant.The establishment of the most potent fraction(s) as well as the isolation of the pure active secondary metabolite responsible for the immune stimulatory and antiviral activities in Eastern Nigeria mistletoe has become very needful.This will enable us prove our assumption that this particular specie is different from the European version,Viscum album.Methods:Five solvents of varying polarity namely n-hexane,chloroform, ethylacetate,acetone and methanol were successively employed in the complete fractionation of the crude aqueous -methanol extract of Eastern Nigerian mistletoe,Loranthus micranthus Linn.,harvested from Kola acuminata in that order.The fractions were dried in-vacuo using a rotary evaporator maintained at a temperature of(40±5)℃.The different fractions were screened for immunomodulatory activity using a universal model:the cellular - mediated delayed type hypersensivity test in experimental mice.This was performed by administering two different dose levels:250 mg/kg and 500 mg/kg of each fraction against standard positive and negative control. Results:Results of the study established dose-dependent immunostimulatory(upregulatory) effects of the five fractions of the extract as the model used in the study with different percentage stimulations compared to controls.At the dose levels of 500 mg/kg and 250 mg/kg body weight,the percentage stimulation observed were as following:chloroform fraction 311.11%and 122.22%,ethyl acetate fraction 193.38%and 95. 56%,n-hexane 155.56%and 3.50%,acetone fraction 95.56%and 51.11%and methanol fraction 68. 89%and 24.44%respectively.Levamisole,a known potent immunostimulant,afforded a stimulation of 68. 89%at a dose of 2.5 mg/kg.Conclusion:The study showed that the order of immunomodulatory potency is chloroform fraction > ethylacetate fraction > hexane fraction > acetone fraction > methanol fraction.Bioassayguided fractionation and purification of the active extracts led to the isolation of pure compounds phytochemically characterized as sterols and flavonoids.This work indicates that the main constituents of our local mistletoe responsible for immunostimulation are the flavonoids,terpenoids and or steroids.Glycosides,carbohydrates, tannins and alkaoids appear to augment the measured activities.
文摘To observe the effect of Fufang Jisheng Liujin Gao （复方寄生流浸膏 Compound Mistletoe Fluidextract） on blood pressure in the spontaneous hypertensive rats （SHR） and the renal hypertensive dogs （RHD）. Methods： The blood pressure-decreasing effects of single administration and 14-day consecutive administration of Compound Mistletoe Fluidextract （CMF） in SHR and RHD were investigated and compared with that of Niuhuang Jiangya Wan （牛黄降压丸 Bezoar Hypertension-relieving Pills）. Results： Both single administration and 14-day consecutive administration of CMF had significant hypotensive effects in SHR and RHD. Conclusion： The hypotensive action of CMF is gradual, but lasts for a longer period, with a dose-effect relationship in a range of doses.
基金The NIH/NIPRD/FCN drug symposium travel grant award to the corresponding author in 2009the 2008 innovators of tomorrow(IOT) grant award from STEP-B project in Nigeria
文摘Objective:To provide further evidence for the ethnomedicinal use of the Eastern Nigeria mistletoe,Loranthus micranthus(L.micranthus),as an immunostimulant.Methods:Solvent fractions from the crude extract of the mistletoe plant was obtained and screened by the cell mediated delayed type hypersensitivity reaction(DTHR) model in mice.Then the immunomodulatory potentials of a major lupane triterpenoid ester isolated from an active hexane fraction of the Eastern Nigeria mistletoe was investigated.Three lupeol-based triterpenoid esters: 7β15α-dihydroxyl-lup-20(29)-ene-3β-palmitate(Ⅰ),7β,15α-dihydroxyl-lup-20(29)- ene-3β-stearate(Ⅱ) and 7β,15α-dihydroxyl-lup-20(29)-ene-3β-decadecanoate(Ⅲ) were isolated from the plant leaves epiphyting on a local kola nut tree and were characterized. Compound 1 was subjected to cell proliferation studies using C57H1/6 splenocvtes at three dose levels(5.25 and 100μg/mL) in presence of controls.Furthermore,the effect of this compound on IL-8 receptor expression was evaluated at three doses(1,5 and 10μg/mL) using the real time polymerase chain reaction assay.Results:This triterpenoid ester produced some enhancement of the splenocytes at the tested doses but at doses higher than 5μg/mL caused inhibition of the IL-8 receptor expression.Conclusions:The present findings support the ethnomedicinal use of the Eastern Nigeria Mistletoe in the management of diseases affecting the immune system.The trilerpenoid(s) have some immunomodulatory abilities on splenocytes and IL-8 receptors and may partly account lor the overall immunomodulatory activity of this plant.
文摘A novel polypeptide named as defensin CM was isolated from Chinese mistletoe, Viscum coloratura （Kom.） Nakai. The amino acid sequence was determined by the combination of Edman degradation, endoproteinase Lys-C digestion, and MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry. The primary structure was ATCSAPSGRF KGACFSSNTC SNICKTLEGL KDGHCTGLAC YCSRNC.
文摘Three viscotoxins have been isolated from Chinese mistletoe, Viscum coloratura （Kom.） Nakai. The primary structures were determined unambiguously by the combination of Edman degradation, endoproteinase Elu-c digestion, and Q-TOF mass spectrometry. One was identified as viscotoxin C1, which was for the first time isolated from Chinese mistletoe. The other two were new polypeptides, named as viscotoxin B5 and viscotoxin B8. Pharmacological studies showed that the polypeptides exhibit distinct cytotoxicity to human cancer cells.
文摘Loranthus micranthus is the species of mistletoe peculiar to the eastern province of Nigeria.It has been shown to possess anti-diabetic,anumotility,antimicrobial and antihypertensive activities which are host-tree dependent. The antimicrobial activity was found to vary with the season during which the plant was harvested.We are of the opinion that this species should possess immunomodulating potentials as have been reported for the European species,Viscum album.In our efforts to establish the bio-activities and active principles in our local mistletoe, the immunomodulatory activity of n-hexane and methanol extracts from Loranthus micranthus parasitic on Persea americana was assessed at three dose levels ranging from 100 to 400 mg/kg body weight using delayed type hypersensitivity reaction(DTHR) and cyclophosphamide-induced myelosuppression models in mice.This was compared with responses from a standard immunostimulatory drug,levamisole.Preliminary phytochemical analysis of the plant showed the presence of tannins,flavonoids,alkaloids,terpenoids,carbohydrates and saponins.Regression analysis indicated a dose-dependent response relationship in the parameters measured with over 170%increase for both extracts at the highest dose level.The one way ANOVA test showed significant variation in the parameters between the controls and the different dose levels.However,at 95%confidence level,(P【0.05),there was no statistically significant difference between the two extracts, an indication that the active immunomodulant(s) could be both in the polar and non-polar crude extract.In conclusion,the present results have established some immune stimulating actions of the Eastern Nigeria mistletoe, Loranthus micranthus thus indicating that this variant of the semi parasitic plant holds a strong promise as an immunostimulatory candidate.There is therefore,a basis for further detailed investigation on the fractions and specific constituents.Thus,these extracts from Loranthus micranthus possess pronounced immune stimulating action comparable to Levamisole in mouse-based models.
基金supported by the National Key Research and Development Program (2017 YFD0600105)。
文摘The parasitic plant dwarf mistletoe(Arceuthobium) is currently one of the most threatening infestations of coniferous forests worldwide,especially in Eurasia and North America,but its population dynamics in relation to one of its hosts(spruce) remain unclear.Here,toward understanding the population dynamics,differential equations were used to construct a life history model for the two populations,and two relatively independent subsystems,host and parasite,were generated from their symbiotic relationships.A suspected-infection model was used to couple them.The resulting models were used to analyze structural changes in the forest.When each infected spruce was assumed to support 1000 parasite shoots,the spruce population first increased rapidly,then slows.When 2000 parasite shoots were assumed,the forest declined dramatically,slipping to zero in the 10 th year,and the spruce seedlings were unable to regenerate.Parasite shoot population curves transformed from exponential J-shapes to logistic S-shapes,reaching population limitations as germination rates changed.These results provide important clues to understanding developmental trends of the present parasite population and will assist in reconstructing invasion histories.
基金Supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (No.81460092, No.81660158 and No.81400372)Natural Science Key Project of Jiangxi Province (No.20161ACB21017)+1 种基金Youth Science Foundation of Jiangxi Province (No.20151BAB215016)Technology and Science Foundation of Jiangxi Province (No.20151BBG70223)
文摘AIM： To investigate the protective effect of mistletoe combined with carboxymethyl cellulose eye drops on dry eye in postmenopausal women.METHODS： Sixty postmenopause female patients diagnosed of dry eye were assigned randomly to mistletoe combined with carboxymethyl cellulose eye drops treatment group（n=30） and control group treated with normal saline eye drops（n=30）. The subjective symptoms of ocular surface, Ocular Surface Disease Index（OSDI）, tear film function tests, tear protein and corneal morphology by confocal scanning microscopy were analyzed before treatment and at 1, 2, 4 and 8 wk after treatment respectively. To ensure the safety of the trial, all patients were examined with systolic pressure, diastolic pressure, glutamic-pyruvic transaminase, glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase, urine creatinine, and blood urea nitrogen at 8 wk after treatment.RESULTS： There were no obvious differences between two groups before the treatment（P〉0.05）. In two months after the treatment, the symptoms of ocular surface, OSDI, tear protein, and tear film function were only slightly changed in normal saline eye drops group. However, all indices were improved after the treatment of mistletoe combined with carboxymethyl cellulose eye drops group（P〈0.05）. In addition, the average amount of corneal epithelium basal cells and inflammatory cells of mistletoe treated group were 3174±379 and 38±25 cells/mm2, significantly decreased as compared to the control group with 4309±612 and 158± 61 cells/mm2, respectively. In the control group, althoughnerves still maintained straight under corneal epithelium, the number of nerves were significantly decreased, as compared with normal female. In the mistletoe treated group, the number of nerves was only slightly reduced, compared with normal female.CONCLUSION： Mistletoe combined with carboxymethyl cellulose eye drops can alleviate the symptoms and signs of dry eye symptoms.
文摘Objectives:Among cutaneous malignancies,melanoma stands out for its particularly aggressive nature,with therapeutic interventions becoming notably limited once the disease progresses.In this research,we investigate the tumor-suppressing capabilities of water-extracted Korean mistletoe(Viscum album var.coloratum)and its purified lectin component(V.album var.coloratum agglutinin,VCA)using two distinct mouse melanoma models:B16BL6 and B16F10 cell lines.Methods:The impact of water extract and VCA treatments on melanoma cells was assessed through multiple experimental approaches,examining cellular survival rates,programmed cell death pathways,multicaspase activity,and cell cycle distribution patterns.To elucidate the interconnections among various cellular responses,we employed a suite of statistical techniques encompassing correlation studies,principal component analysis(PCA)-based dimensionality reduction,and dendrogram-based clusteringmethodologies.Results:Thewater extract exhibited dosedependent cytotoxicity with IC50 values of 372.3±8.7μg/mL and 202.5±8.4μg/mL for B16BL6 and B16F10 cells,respectively.VCA showed more significant effects,with IC50 values of 0.1992±0.0041 and 0.1981±0.0098μg/mL for B16BL6 and B16F10 cells,respectively.Both agents induced substantial apoptosis with a significant progression from early to late apoptotic stages,reaching up to 59.4%total apoptotic cells for VCA treatment.This was confirmed by strong multicaspase activation,particularly in VCA-treated cells(up to 88.4%caspase-positive cells).The water extract showed modest effects on cell cycle distribution,with increases in G0/G1 phase(74.6%)in B16BL6 cells and S phase(19.2%)in B16F10 cells,while VCA treatment resulted in G2/M phase reduction(10.0%)in B16F10 cells.Correlation analysis revealed strong negative associations between cell viability and caspase activity(r=−0.843 to−0.878),while hierarchical clustering demonstrated distinct response patterns between low and high concentrations of both agents.Effect size analysis confirmed strong treatment impacts on cell viability(d=−5.89 to−6.12)and caspase activation(d=3.45 to 5.23).Conclusion:These findings suggest that Korean mistletoe water extract and its isolated lectin may affect both primary and metastatic melanoma cells through distinct mechanisms,demonstrating particular potency in caspase-dependent apoptosis induction.Our findings establish a robust foundation for developing novel therapeutic interventions derived from natural compounds to combat malignant melanoma with high metastatic potential.
文摘Background:Mistletoes are the most successful group of obligatory hemi-parasitic flowering plants that attach to the host via haustorium for obtaining water and minerals.This review aims to assess the current knowledge on mistle-toes host plant recognition,haustorium formation,water/minerals acquisition,and host plants’defense signaling and responses against mistletoe attack.Results:Some mistletoes are host-specific while others are generalists occurring on a wide range of vascular plants.The host nitrogen(N)content,parasite–host chemical interactions,compatibility,and dispersal agents are the main determinant factors for host specificity.Mistletoes take up substantial amounts of water and minerals passively via apoplastic routes,and most are xylem feeders,but could shift to phloem-feeding during the physiological stress of the host plants.Current evidence highlighted that cell wall loosening and modification are critical during the development of the haustorium in the host tissue.This is made possible by the application of physical pressures by the developing haustorium and cell wall degradation using enzymes(xyloglucan endotransglycosylases,glucanase,expansins,etc.)produced by the mistletoe.Host plants defend against mistletoe infection mechanically by producing spines,lignin,suberin,etc.,which discourages dispersers,and chemically defend by killing the infector or inhibiting the establishment of the haustorium using their secondary metabolites such as terpenes,phenolics,and N-containing compounds.Although the host plants’response to mistletoe attack resembles the response to other biotic stresses,unlike short-term stressors,the effect of mistletoe attack is long-term and depends on the parasite load.Infection by mistletoe leads to water and nutrient stress of the host plant and deteriorates its healthy establishment and survival.Conclusion:Mistletoes are heterogeneous group in the order Santalales which have versatile mechanisms for pollination,seed dispersal and nutrient acquisition from host plants.Infection by mistletoes triggers host plant responses,varying from mechanical to chemical mechanisms which are analogous to herbivory defences,and negatively impacts host plant growth and reproduction.
基金This research was supported by research funds from INECOL(20030/10563)a competitive grant(155686)from the Consejo Nacional de Ciencia y Tecnología(CONACyT)awarded to J.F.O.
文摘Aims While the influence of mistletoe-host interactions on each other’s evolution is well-recognized,the role of interactions between mis-tletoes and its mutualistic pollinators and seed dispersers mediated by host species is relatively unexplored.Methods Here,we examine the effects of host species(Mexican hawthorn Crataegus mexicana DC,black cherry Prunus serotina Ehrh.,leather-leaf Mexican oak Quercus crassipes Bonpl.)on flower morphology,nectar production,pollinator visitation rate and female reproduct-ive fitness in hemiparasitic Mexican mistletoe Psittacanthus caly-culatus(DC.)G.Don(Loranthaceae)populations at three different locations.We first measured the lengths of corolla,style,stamen,exerted stamen and anther,the length and width of the ovary and nectar availability for mistletoe flowers in natural populations.Then,we evaluated flower visitation and measured(length and width)and weighed the fruits and its seeds of mistletoes growing on each of the three host species.Finally,we evaluated the effects of host species,location and flower traits on fruit or seed size variation(both as proxies of reproductive fitness).Important Findings We found mistletoes growing on natural hosts P.serotina and Q.crassipes produced larger flowers,fruits and seeds than mistle-toes on cultivated C.mexicana.However,these differences varied across space.The amount of available nectar and hummingbird vis-itation rates in flowers of mistletoes on C.mexicana was higher at the three sites than in flowers of mistletoes on P.serotina or Q.cras-sipes.The effects of host species,study site and floral trait covariates affected significantly all fitness measures,indicating that mistletoes’reproductive fitness is affected differently depending on the host species and their site of occurrence.These host-associated differ-ences in reproduction might have implications for interactions with mutualistic vectors.
基金This research was supported by the Pamukkale University Research Fund(2020FEBE055).
文摘This work evaluated the effect of air atmosphere packaging and modified atmosphere packaging on the quality and nutritional compounds of dried mistletoe leaves during 4 months of storage at 4 and 25℃ temperatures.Mistletoe leaves packaged with modified atmosphere had improved nutritional qualities overall as compared to mistletoe leaves packaged with atmosphere air.At the end of the storage period,water activity values of all samples increased by 0.72%-3.38%.Before storage,the dried mistletoe leaves’total phenolic content was determined to be 301.73±2.49 mg GAE/100 g dry matter.The total phenolic content of the samples decreased by 62.00%-71.96%after four months of storage.It was determined that the highest loss of total phenolic content was observed at room temperature(25℃)and in the samples packaged with normal atmospheric air.Total antioxidant activity values in MAP2 samples decreased by 23.82%after four months when kept at low temperatures,but the loss was calculated to be 34.48%in cases where they were kept at room temperature.Ascorbic acid content losses in AP,MAP1,and MAP2 samples kept at room temperature were 21.48%,15.90%,and 14.72%,respectively.In the samples stored at low temperatures,these loss rates were calculated as 16.62%,13.05%,and 12.05%,respectively.No single model was satisfactory for describing changes in ascorbic acid content,which could not be determined in the samples stored at both 4℃ and 25℃.The dried mistletoe leaves modified atmosphere packed and stored at low temperatures provided the highest bioactive compound retention.
文摘Semiparasitic plants, mistletoes, distributed in Europe and East-Asia mainly, China, Korea and Japan have long been recognised as therapeutic herbs. Since the 1920s, extracts from European mistletoe （Viscum album L） have been popular in Europe as an unconventional cancer treatment. These extracts have been used in adjuvant cancer therapy because their immunostimulatory, cytostatic/cytotoxic and DNA stabilising activities. The main biological activities are addressed to sugar binding proteins, the Mistletoe Lectins, and to micro proteins named viscotoxins. The mistletoe lectins are members of the family of toxic lectins and recognize sugars and glycoconjugates containing galactose and/or N-acetyl-galactosamine groups. In vitro and in vivo assays confirm that the mistletoe lectins, isolated from the plant and compared with recombinant forms, play an important role as biologically active principles in mistletoe extracts. Limited experimental evidence indicates that other components like glycosides, polysaccharides, amines etc, may also have anticancer activity. Under discussion in Europe is the principal question of using holo plant extracts or single component lectin preparations： wild type lectins or recombinant ones in cancer therapy. Finally problems of preparation, characterization and standardization of commercial mistletoe preparations and evaluation of biological activities are discussed.
基金supported by Kangwon National University and NRF,Korea(No.2017R1D1A3B03032994)
文摘Mistletoes are parasite plants growing on various tree species,taking nutrients from the host.Beneficial compounds of mistletoe were used in medicine and these mistletoes were commonly collected from oak species that were not well identified.We analyzed the nutritional value by measuring proximate and mineral components of Korean mistletoe(Viscum album var.coloratum)from various host trees.Carbohydrate was the most proximate component in both leaves and twigs followed crude protein,crude fiber,crude ash and crude fat.While the contents of the proximate components and minerals varied among hosts and between plant parts,leaves contained higher crude protein and ash,and more minerals except for magnesium than twigs,although no significant difference was found inmistletoe grown on Prunus mandshurica.There were significant differences of proximate and mineral contents depending on the host species.Mistletoe grown on Chaenomeles sinensis contained higher levels of carbohydrates,crude fat,crude ash,magnesium,calcium,sodium,iron,and zinc than mistletoe grown on other species.Mistletoe grown on P.mandshurica contained high mineral levels of potassium,copper and phosphorous.The nutritional value of mistletoes were greatly influenced by the host species but among the hosts,specific nutrients accumulated in leaves more than in twigs,and vice versa.Based on the analysis,Korean mistletoe contains relatively good quality of nutrients and has high potential for dietary supplements as well as for medicinal compounds.
