Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALC)

A major cause of aging is the deterioration of the energy-producing components of the cell which results in reduced cellular metabolic activity, the accumulation of cellular debris, and eventual death of the cell. One of the most effective nutrients to maintain youthful cellular energy metabolism is the amino acid acetyl L-carnitine (ALC), which functions via several mechanisms to protect cells from the effects of ageing. ALC assists in the transport of fat through the cell membrane and into the mitochondria within the cell, where these fats are oxidized to produce the cellular energy ATP.*

Acetyl L-carnitine research has shown it promotes a healthy nervous system and memory. ALC activity promotes oxidation which is why it is combined with ALA.*

Both young and old rats were treated with L-acetyl-carnitine, a drug which favours the synthesis of acetylcholine, the main neurotransmitter deficient in old age. In aged rats the drug restored a normal number of both axosomatic synapses and giant bouton vesicles. The authors hypothesise that the drug, by a cholinergic-type mechanism, restores the excitatory afferences to the granule whose axon would thus form normal giant boutons with the interneuron, reestablishing the feed-back regulation (Badiali de Giorgi et al 1987). The mechanism for the pathological increase in cell death in the brain that occur in various disease states e.g. HIV, ageing or Alzheimer's disease, occurs by complex and as yet undefined mechanism(s) related to immunological, virological or biochemical disturbances (i.e. energy depletion, oxidative stress, increased protein degradation).*

It appears that l-carnitine and its acetylated form, acetyl-l-carnitine, can attenuate the cell damage (Virmani et al 1995). ALC was effective, unlike L-carnitine, in decreasing oxidative damage, including MDA, oxo8dG/oxo8G, and nitrotyrosine, in old rat brain (Liu et al 2004).*

Alpha Lipoic Acid

Alpha Lipoic Acid helps defend against degenerative diseases and aging by fighting free radicals. ALA is an antioxidant that regenerates both itself and other essential antioxidants, such as vitamins C and E, and coenzyme Q10. ALA also increases levels of the antioxidant glutathione, which is found in the brain. Insufficient levels of glutathione have been linked to the increased risk of stroke, dementia, Parkinson's and Alzheimer's disease. ALA has also been found to promote liver health. And, in several studies, it has been proven to promote healthy nerve function in diabetic patients.*

The Alpha Lipoic Acid / Acetyl L-Carnitine combination act as a powerful anti-oxidant and energy booster and together they appear to work better then either one on there own.*

Acetyl-L-carnitine is used for Alzheimer's disease, age-related memory deficits, senile depression, Down syndrome, alcoholism-related cognitive deficits, and cerebrovascular insufficiency after stroke. It is also used for peripheral neuropathies, diabetic neuropathy, neuropathy due to anti-viral drugs used in the treatment of AIDS, facial paralysis, male infertility, symptoms of age-related testosterone deficiency, and Personae's disease."  Alpha-lipoic acid is a coenzyme that, together with pyrophosphates, is involved in carbohydrate metabolism and production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP). Exogenous alpha-lipoic acid and the metabolite, dihydrolipoic acid (DHLA), have antioxidant activity and can scavenge free radicals both intra- and extra-cellular.*

ALC & R-LA

L-carnitine and α-lipoic acid may offer neurotherapeutic effects (e.g., neurocognitive enhancement) via disparate mechanisms including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and metabolic regulation. L-carnitine and α-lipoic acid are pleiotropic agents capable of offering neuroprotective and possibly cognitive-enhancing effects for neuropsychiatric disorders in which cognitive deficits are an integral feature (Soczynska et al 2008).*

Codonopsis pilosula radix (CP)

Dang Shen(CP) is a TCM herb to nourish the Center, invigorate qi, generate Fluid and nourish Blood.*

Modern research showed that Dang Shen was a tonic, having adaptogenic, anti-fatigue, and anti-ageing and anti-anoxic effects. It could improve the learning and memory of mice, and improve immunity as well. Dang Shen could elevate RBC count, increase amount of hemoglobin and lower WBC count. Extracts of Dang Shen could increase blood flow volume in the brain, lower limbs and internal organs. Dang Shen at different concentrations had inhibitory or exciting effect on isolated ileum of guinea pigs, and had treating as well as preventative and protective effects on gastric ulcers. It also elevated the content of PGE 2 in stomach tissues. Dang Shen could significantly excite isolated uterus of rats, increase plasma corticosterone in mice and elevate blood sugar. It also had anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, analgesic, anti-tussive and expectorant effects.*

In clinic, Dang Shen is used to treat coronary heart disease, arrhythmia, hypotension, hyperlipemia, chronic bronchitis, neurosis, chronic enteritis, prolapse of the anus, dysfunctional uterine bleeding, malposition of the fetus, fabism, altitude stress and psoriasis, etc.*

Dang shen (CP) alcohol extract had the effects of invigorating energy, activating blood flow and resolving blood stasis on rats and anti-ageing on mice.*

The time of anti-anoxia, the weight of immune organs (thymus and spleen) on the 7th day and 14th day were measured. The effects of alcohol extract on rats with qi-xu and Blood stasis syndrome showed whole blood viscosity (high-sheer, middle-sheer, low-sheer), plasma viscosity, aggregation indexes of red blood cells, packed red blood cell were decreased significantly and red blood cell electrodeposition time was sped up significantly. The group of high dose of alcohol extract of CP extended the time of anti-anoxia significantly (Xu et al 2008).*

Effect of Compound Codonopsis Oral Liquids to Immunity Function in Mice*

NIU Rui-yan, YAN Xiao-yan, WANG Jun-dong. Shan Xi Nong Ye Ke xue. 2008; 36(9): 86-88.

To study the effects of compound codonopsis oral liquids to immunity function in mice, 40 healthy Kunming mice were randomly divided into 4 groups of 10 mice in each. With one untreated group as the control to give the normal saline 0. 1 ml/d; the other three groups were administrated with respectively low dose in their drinking water(0.5 g/ml), middle dose( 1.0 g/ml), and high dose ( 1.5 g/ml). 10 days later immune organs’ weight, weight gain, celiac macrophage phagoeytosis and the red cell immunity function were detected, and splenic histology was studied by microscope. Results showed that compared with the control group, spleen index were increased significantly. Additionally, compound codonopsis oral hquids highly enhanced E-C3bRR of mice and decreased E-ICRR significantly. Therefore, it is proved primarily that compound codonopsis oral liquids can influence and regulate the immunity of normal mice.*

Immunomodulatory effect of a polysaccharide-enriched preparation of Codonopsis pilosula roots.*

Wang ZT, Ng TB, Yeung HW, Xu GJ. Gen Pharmacol. 1996 Dec; 27(8): 1347-50.

A polysaccharide-enriched fraction (CPPS) was prepared from Codonopsis pilosula root extract utilizing a procedure that entailed extraction with aqueous buffer and precipitation with ethanol. 2. After administration of CPPS in drinking water to C57BL/6 mice at a dosage of 10 mg/L for 4 weeks, the splenocytes exhibited lowered mitogenic responses to Concanavalin A (ConA) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS). The in vitro production of reactive nitrogen intermediates was inhibited. 3. However, when oral administration of CPPS was prolonged to 8 weeks, there was a potentiation of ConA-stimulated and LPS-stimulated mitogenic responses. 4. When tested under in vitro conditions, CPPS augmented the mitogenic response of splenocytes to ConA. However, there was no effect on the pinocytic activity of mouse macrophages, nor was there any proliferative activity on mouse melanoma B16 cells.*

The effects of Chinese herbs on improving survival and inhibiting anti-ds DNA antibody production in lupus mice.*

Chen JR, Yen JH, Lin CC, Tsai WJ, Liu WJ, Tsai JJ, Lin SF, Liu HW. Am J Chin Med. 1993; 21(3-4): 257-62.

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an important autoimmune disease with multiple organ system involvement. From preliminary studies, we have found that six Chinese herbs: Atractylodes ovata, Anqelica sinensis, Cordyceps sinensis, Liqustrum lucidum, Codonopsis pilosula and Homo sapiens can improve defective in vitro interleukin-2 (IL-2) production in patients with SLE. In order to investigate the in vivo effects of these herbs, we used NZB/NZW F1 mice, a typical lupus animal model used to test these herbs. It was found that C. pilosula, H. sapiens and C. sinensis could prolong the life span of female NZB/NZW F1 mice and inhibited anti-ds DNA production. Although A. sinensis could prolong the life span of experimental mice, it did not inhibit the production of anti-ds DNA antibody. These herbs may have great potential for the management of human SLE in the future.*

Immunological and hematopoietic effect of Codonopsis pilosula on cancer patients during radiotherapy.*

Zneg XL, Li XA, Zhang BY. Zhongguo Zhong Xi Yi Jie He Za Zhi. 1992 Oct; 12(10): 607-8, 581.

Codonopsis pilosula was used as an adjuvant in 76 cancer patients during radiotherapy and its protective effect on hematopoietic and immunologic function was studied. Results: (1) No influence on Hb and WBC of the patients with radiotherapy. (2) It could reduce the immunosuppressive effect of radiotherapy on delayed hypersensitive reaction, the lymphocyte response to PHA and IL-2. (3) No difference between treated and control groups in most humoral immune indices such as IgG, IgA and C3, but had slight increase in IgM in treated patients, while significant decrease in control.*

Effects Of Four Chinese Medicines On Prevention And Treatment Of Deacclimatization To High Altitude*

ZHANG Xi-Zhou, CUI Jian-Hua, LI Bin, Wang Hong-Yun, Ma Guang-Quan, Zhang Quan-Long. Jie Fang Jun Yu Fang Yi Xue Za Zhi. 2008; 26(4): 250-253.

Objective To observe the effects of four Chinese medicines on prevention and treatment of deacclimatization to high altitude. Methods Fifty-seven healthy soldiers stayed at 5 170m altitude for one year were randomly divided inte 5 groups: Gingkgo biloba (n=12), Rhodiola compound (n=12), Acanthopanax tablet (n=11), Dang-shen compound (n=11), and placebo (n=11). Single blind trial was used in this experiment. The subjects took medicine for 5 d before retum to sea level and continued taking for 7 d after arrived at plain The questionnaire of symptom of deacclimatization to high altitude was used on the 2nd, 4th, 6th d after returned to sea level. The levi of MDA, SOD, NO and NOS in blood serum on 7th d morning after arrived at plain were measured. A neuropsychological monitoring system was used to record total frequency of hands cross movement and memory of order number test. PWC170 and step index were also evaluated. Results The score of symptom of deacclimatization in Dangshen compound group on 2nd, 4th, 6th d after reurned to sea level (1. 73 ± 0. 79, 1. 36 ± 0. 67, 0. 91 ± 0. 54 respectively) and that in Rhodiola group on 4th, 6th d (1. 67±0. 89, 1. 25±0. 870) were lower than that in control group(2. 82 ± 1. 17, 3. 18± 1. 78, 2. 09 ± 0. 70), (P<0.01, orP<0.05). The content of MDA in Gingkgo biloba, Rhodiola compound, Dangshen compound groups were lower while the level of NO, NOS were higher than in control group. SOD in Gingkgo biloba and Dangshen group compound were higher too. The total times and right times of hands cross frequency in Dangshen compound group were higher, and the average time of every beat was shorter. The score of memory-span of order number test both in Dangshen compound and rhodiola groups was higher than in control group (P<0.05). The PWC170 and step index in Dangshen compound group (196. 9± 13. 3, 62. 69 ± 9. 69) and Rhodiola group (197. 6 ± 29. 4, 62. 07 ± 3. 30) were higher than those in control group (175. 0 ± 13. 6, 54. 59 ± 7. 17), (P<0.05). Conclusion Dangshen compound and Rhodiola have better effect on prevention against deacclimatization to high altitude.*

Studies on invigorating energy, activating blood flow, resolving blood stasis and anti-aging actions of alcohol extracts of Codonopsis Lanccolata*

XU Qin, CHEN Xiao-jun, LIU Buoming, YANG Ping, Bai Xian-qun, Deng Li-dong, CHEN Xue-fen. Guang Xi Yi Xue. 2008; 30(12): 1834-1837.

Objective To study the effects of invigorating energy, activating blood flow, resolving blood stasis and anti-aging of alcohol extract of Codonopsis lanccolata in rats and mice. Methods Each item of hemorheology of alcohol extract of Codonopsis lanceolata on animal model of Qi-deficiency and blood stasis syndrome in rats was observed. The time of pole-climbing, the time of antianoxia, weights of immune organs (thymus and spleen) on the 7th day and 14th day after gavaged with the extract for 14 days were measured. Results The effects of alcohol extract on rats with Qi-deficiency and blood stasis syndrome showd whole blood viscosity (high-sheer, middle-sheer, low-sheer), plasma viscosity, aggregation indexes of red blood cells, packed red blood cell were decreased significantly and red blood cell electrodeposition time was speed up significantly. The group of high dose of alcohol extract of Codonopsis lanccolata extended the time of antianoxia significantly on the 7th day and 14th day, the group of low dose of alcohol extract of Codonopsis lanccolata extended the time of antianoxia significantly on the 14th day. Both of the group of high dose and low dose of alcohol extract increased thymus weights of mice~ significantly on the 7th day and 14th day and pleen weights of mice’ss on the 14th day. Conclusion It was initially judged that alcohol extract of Codonopsis lanceolata had the effects of invigorating energy, activating blood flow and resolving blood stasis on rats and anti-aging on mice.*

Protective Effect of polysaccharides from Codonopsis Pilosula on Neural Stem Cell Injury Induced by Na2S2O3*

WU Bing-feng, YANG Juan, XIE Hong, YANG Xiao-sheng Shi Zhen Guo Yi Guo Yao. 2008; 19(2): 280-281.

Objective To study the protective effect of polysaccharide from Codonopsis pilosula (CPP-1) on neural stem cell injury induced by Na2S2O3. Methods CPP-1 was obtained by ion change column chromatography and gel chromatography; the neural stem cells were cultured from the striatum of fetal mice and damaged by Na/S2O3 to simulate hypoxic -ischemic brain injury. The animals were divided into control group, Na2S2O3 group and test groups with different concentrations of polysaccharide. The cell death rate and LDH leakage were observed. Results The neural stem cell damage of test groups were alleviated, the death rate of neural stem cells and LDH leakage in high concentration test group were induced much lower than those of Na2S2O3 group. Conclusion CPP -1 has remarkable protective effect on neural stem cell injury induced by Na2S2O3.*

Panacis Quinquefolii (Xi Yang Shen)

Xi Yang Shen tonifies Qi and Yin, clears heat (inflammation) and generates Fluids. It has a sedative effect on the CNS yet has marked anti-fatigue properties. Orally, American ginseng is used as an adaptogenic, for increasing resistance to environmental stress, as a general tonic, stimulant, diuretic, and digestive aid. It is also used for anemia, diabetes, insomnia, neurasthenia, gastritis, impotence, fever, hangover symptoms, stimulating immune function, attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). American ginseng extract decreases LH (luteinising hormone) levels and increases serum ceruloplasmin oxidase activity (a measure of oestrogenic activity in the liver).*

Xi Yang Shen/American ginseng can significantly increase immune competence of yin-deficiency Jimpy mice caused by Hydrocortisone; it increases the delayed hypersensitivity intensity and the capability of mononuclear phagocyte. These indicate that this herb has the effects of increasing organism immunity and supporting healthy energy Li et al 2007). PQ has an anti-oxidation action. This action may related to the increase of the glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and superoxidedismutase (SOD) activities. PQ prevented the rise of serum ALT activity, inhibited MDA formation and increased GSH—PX activities. PQ alleviated CCl_4—induced liver toxicity in rats (Zhao 1997).*

Empirical Study of American Ginseng on Anti-defatigation Action and the Effects of Delayed Hypersensitivity and the Function of Mononuclear Phagocyte*

LI Ji, CHAI Jian-bo, ZHAO Wei-guo. Zhong Hua Zhong Yi Yao Xue Kan. 2007; 25(10): 2002-2004.

Objective: To observe the action of American ginseng on anti-defatigation, and the effects on delayed hy-persensitivity intenaity and the function of mononuclear phagocyte. Methods: By swimming method to observe the effect of American ginseng on swimming Live time of yin-deficiency Jimpy mice caused by Hydrocortisone ; Adopting haemolysis lacuna method to observe the effect of American ginseng on delayed hypersensitivity intensity of cavia cobaya; using carbon particle clearance method to observe the effect of American ginseng on monocyte cytophagic index of Jimpy mice. Results: American ginseng can significantly prolongation the swimming time of yin-deficiency Jimpy mice, compared with modle control group, the high-dose group and the low-dose group have the significant difference(P<0.01, P<0.05) ; It can significantly increase the delayed hypersensitivity intensity of cavia cobaya, compared with modle control group, the high-dose group and the low -dose group have the significant difference (P<0.01)in lacuna experiment shade selection OD numerus; It can increase the monocyte cytophagic index of Jimpy mice, compared with modle control group, the high -dose group and the low -dose group have the significant difference(P<0.05). Conclusion.s: American ginseng can significantly increase immune competence of yin-deficiency Jimpy mice caused by Hydrocortisone ; increase the delayed hypersensitivity intensity and the capability of mononuclear phagocyte. These indicate that this herb has the effects of increasing organism immunity and supporting healthy energy.*

Astragali (Huang Qi)

Huang Qi is a TCM herb to nourish the Center, invigorate qi, elevate yang, strengthen the Superficial, expel Toxin, promote wound healing, induce diuresis and reduce edema.*

Modern research showed that Huang Qi could improve immunity, promote metabolism, lower the blood pressure and promote haematopoiesis. It had cardiotonic, anti-ageing, anti-bacterial, anti-viral, sedative, analgesic, anti-fatigue and anti-anoxic effects. It could strengthen the memorizing effect in mice, dilate the coronary artery and capillary blood vessels, and protect the Liver. In clinic, the herb is used to treat common cold, bronchial asthma, chronic bronchitis, pulmonary heart disease, coronary heart disease, premature beat, congestive heart failure, viral myocarditis, leukopenia, thrombopenic purpura, aplastic anemia, cerebral vascular accident, insomnia, atrophic gastritis, gastric and duodenal ulcer, gastroptosis, chronic hepatic diseases, chronic nephritis, retention of urine, diabetes, prostatic hyperplasia, dysfunctional uterine bleeding, epidemic hemorrhagic fever, SLE, arthritis, psoriasis, chronic ulcer, cancer, rhinitis and facial paralysis, etc. The swimming time of mice in experimental group was longer than that of the control group. The levels of urea and lactic acid of tired mice after swimming in the experimental group were lower than those of controls. The recovery rate of lactic acid in experimental was more faster than that of control. In addiction the level of liver glycogen increase significantly in experimental group as compared with the control (P<0.01). AR can not only enhance the capability of adaptation to heavy exercise, but also have significant effect on prevention and elimination of lysis fatigue effect in physical strength (Li et al 2008).*

Experimental research on Astragalus capsule enhancing immunity*

LI Feng-wen, QIN Hui-yan, ZHAO Peng, Li Bin, Zhang Jiehong, Huang Chaopei Liang Huili, Yang Jufeng, Yao Siyu. Wang Yanwu. Fu Weizhong, He Li, Liang Jian, Peng Liang. Yin Yong Yu Fang Yi Xue. 2008; 14(6): 330-333.

Objective To explore the effect of Astraglus capsule on the immune system. Methods The mice were feed with Astragalus capsule at the dose of 200, 400 and 800mg/kg BW, respectively, once a day for 30-35 days. And then 7 indexes of immune function were measured to judge the effect of Astragalus capsule on immune system. Results All the examination results of the experimental group in comparison with the control group showed that transformation and proliferation of splenic lymphocyte were enhanced; the quantity of the mice anti-body-producing cell and the sheep erythrocyte antibody levels in serum were also raised. The mononuclear macrophage ability to eliminate carbon and mononuclear celiac macrophage phagocytic activity were increased; the delayed hypersensitivity was accelerated; but the activity of NK cell was not raised obviously. Conclusion It is suggested that Astragalus capsule could enhance immune function.*

Effect of Astragalus Polysaccharide on Immunological Function in Mice*

WANG Ting-xin, WANG Ting-xiang, WU Guang-chen, LIU Zheng-hao, XIA Li-ya. Shi Zhen Guo Yi Guo Yao. 2009; 20(7): 1763-1764.

Objective To investigate the effect of astragalus polysaccharide (APS) on immunological function in mice. Methods By lymphocyte transformation test and delayed type hypersensitivity (DTH), the effect of APS on cellular immunity was evaluated. By determining plaque forming cells (PFC) and HC50, the effect of APS on humoral immunity was studied. Abdomen macrophages of mice devour chicken red cell was used to assess phagocytosis of peritoneal macrophages. Results Compared with the normal control group, APS could promote DTH, PFC, HC50 and phagocytosis of peritoneal macrophages, but had no effect on lymphocyte proliferation. Conclusion APS can stimulate the immunological function in mice in different ways.*

An Experimental Study on the Protective Effect of on Immunological Liver Injury in Mice*

CHEN Yingli, XING Jie, LV Yueshan, YU Yang. Gui Yang Yi Xue Yuan Xue Bao. 2008; 33(4): 357-359.

Objective: to study the protective effect of milkvetch root injection, red peony root injection and their combination to mouse liver injury induced by bacillus calmettc-guerin vaccine (BCG) and Lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Methods: The immunologically hepatic damage models were induced with injection of BCG + LPS. After the injection of milkvetch root only, red peony root only, or their combination, the recovery of acute liver injury were observed by measuring serum levels of ALT, AST, LDH and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, and malond iadehyde (MDA). Results: Milkvetch root injection, red peony root injection, and their combination significantly decreased the levels of serum ALT, AST, LDH and MDA, but enhanced SOD activity in the liver, and the the curative results (indicated as levels of ALT, AST, LDH, SOD, MDA) of combination injection significantly excelled those of both milkvetch root injection (P<0.05, P<0.05, P<0.05, P<0.01, P>0.05)alone or red peony root injection(P<0.01, P<0.01, P<0.05, P<0.01, P<0.05) alone. Conclusions: Milkvetch root injection and red peony root injection can protect liver from acute injury induced by BCG + LPS in mice. The combined use of milkvetch root injection and red peony root injection can produce significantly beter protective effect than their sigle use respectively.*

Study on activation of mouse peritoneal macrophage by Astragalus Saponin*

YANG Xiao-Min, XU Xiao-Wu, LU He-Lian, ZHANG Tian-Yi. Zhong Guo Mian Yi Xue Za Zhi. 2008; 24(9): 804-809.

Objective: To investigate the immunomodulatory effect of Astragalus Saponin on macrophages and explore the mechanisms of its immunomodulation.Methods:By adding different concentrations of AS into cultured mice peritoneal macrophages, the influence of AS on synthesis of nitro oxide(NO) was observed by NO Kit (enzymic method).MTr assay was used to determine the cytotoxicity of macrophages induced by AS. The morphological changes of the macrophages were identified by Transmission Electron Microscope. LSCM and specificity fluorescent probe Fluo-3/AM were applied to observe the change of Ca^2+ in the macrophages induced by AS.Results: AS could significantly increase NO synthesis, enhance the capacity of mice peritoneal macrophages for cytotoxicity to carcinoma ceils. The surface projections of the maerophages were exhibited multiplicating, thickening and extenting via Transmission Electron Microscope. Augmented intracellular Ca^2+ in the macrophage was observed by LSCM. Conclusion: AS can enhance the immune fimctions of macrophages, the increase of intracellular Ca^2+ be one of the mechanisms of its immunomodulatory effects.*

The influences of prognosis of early therapy of astragalus injection in neonates with hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy*

ZHUO Ming, CHEN Hong-lian, LIANG Chun-Jie, HUAN Da-Ming, YE Guo-jie, LIN Zhan, CAI Na-li. Guang Xi Yi Xue. 2009, (4): 473-475

Objective To explore the effect of early therapy of intravenous Astragalus on the prognosis of neonates with hypoxie ischemic encephalopathy (HIE). Methods 130 neonates with HIE were selected and divided into treatment group (n =65) and control group (n=65) according to parents’will. In treatment group, astragalus injection was added early on the basis of the routine treatment. During the recovery period, therapy for protecting brain cells, hyperbaric oxygen, acupuncture, and functional exercise were the same in the two groups. A follow-up was carried out in neonates in the two groups. Results Mean developmental quotients (DQ) of children in treatment group at 6, 12 and 18 month of age were greatly higher than those in the control group (P<0.05). Each district scores of DQ was increased in children of 12 month of two groups, but the treatment group was significantly higher than control group (X^2=4. 410, P<005). Conclusion Early administration of Astragalus injection can improve their prognosis and reduce cerebral palsy and mental development behind of children with HIE.*

Study on the inhibitory action of astragalus injection on apoptosis of hippocamal neurons induced by hypoxia hypoglycemia and reoxygenation*

ZHANG Ya-Li, GAO Wei-Juan, YAN Feng-Xia, Ye Dongqing, Chen Zhihong, Qian Tao, Song Chengjun. Zhong Guo Lao Nian Xue Za Zhi. 2009; 29(7): 793-796.

Objective To observe the inhibitory action of astragalus injection on apoptosis of hippocampal neurons induced by hypoxia/hypoglycemia and reoxygenation. MethodsHippocampal neurons of neonate rats cultured primarily for eight days were deprived of oxygen and glucose for 0. 5 h and then cultured normally; at the same time, the neurons were treated by astragalus injection. MTT was used to dectect the activities of neurons, the morphological changes of neurons were observed by light microscope and Annexin V-FITC/PI double staining flow cytometry(FCM)was used to examine the apoptotic rate of neurons. ResultsCompared with normal control group, the activities of neurons at each time point of reoxygenation of hypoxia/hypoglycemia and reoxygenation(model)group were decreased significantly(P<0.05), and the activity of neurons at 6 h after reoxygenation was the lowest, there had obvious difference compared with those of other time points(P<0.05). In astragalus injection low and high concentration group, the activities of neurons had no significant difference compared with those of model group at the same time point(P>0.05); while the activity of neurons in astragalus injection middle concentration group was increased significantly(P<0.05). The apoptotic rates of neurons in model group were increased than those in normal control group(P<0.05); while those in astragalus injection groups were markely decreased than those in model group at each time point(P<0.05). In model group, a great quantity of apoptotic and necrotic cells were observed by light microscope; nucleus of apoptotic cells were shrinkaged, fragmented and deep-stained and apoptotic bodies were also observed. In astragalus injection groups, the apoptotic cells were obviously decreased and the main pathological changes were shrinkage of nucleus, and the extent of neorobiosis of neurons were lightened significantly. ConclusionsThe astragalus injection can inhibit hippocampal neurons apoptosis induced by hypoxia/hypoglycemia and reoxygenation and increase the activities of neurons, so it plays a role in protecting hippocampal neurons.*

Protective effect of extract of astragalus against injury induced by hypoxia/reoxygenation in hippocampus neuron*

ZHU Fen-fang, YIN Yan-yan, LI Wei-ping, LI Wei-zu, WU Guo-cui, GONG Hui-lin, ZHANG Wen. Zhong Guo Yao Li Xue Tong Bao. 2009; 25(2): 213-216.

Aim To study the effect of EA on the injury induced by hypoxia/reoxygenation in primary cultures of rat hippocampal neurons. Methods Rat hippocampal neurons in primary culture were used, and a apoptosis model was induced by hypoxia/reoxygenation. MTF assay and LDH releasing rate were used to detect the cell viability. The apoptosis rate of hipp-ocampal neurons was analyzed by Hoechst 33255 staining, flow cytometry with AnnexinV-FITC and PI staining. Western blot was used to detect the protein expression of AKT and p-AKT. Results Compared tocontrol group, three hours of hvnoxia followed by sixteen hours of reoxygenation induced hippocampal neuronal apoptosis. EA could raise the neuronal viability and reduce apoptosis rate and the damage degree of rat hippocampal neurons. EA could increase the expressing of p-AKT. Conclusions EA has protective effects on damaged neurons, and the mechanism may be related to activating the PI3K-AKT signal transduction pathway.*

Protective Effect of Pharmacological Preconditioning of Astragalus against Cerebral Ischemia Reperfusion Injury in Rats*

RUAN Yao, HUANG Chuan-feng, YUE Xing-ru. Shi Zhen Guo Yi Guo Yao. 2009, 20(1): 103-104

Objective To study the protective effect of pharmacological preconditioning of astragalus (AS) against cerebral ischemic reperfusion injury in rats. Methods Cerebral ischemia reperfusion model was established by clamping both common carotid arteries. The activities of nitric oxide synthetase (NOS), Na^+-k^+ATPase, Ca^2+ ATPase and the contents of nitricoxide (NO), malonaldehyde(MDA) were measured after pharmacological preconditioning of AS. Results The pharmacological pre-conditioning of AS(10 g/kg, Sg/kg) significantly reduced the contents of MDA and significantly increased the activities of NOS, Na ^+-k ^+ ATPase, Ca^2+ ATPase and the contents of NO. Conclusion The pharmacological preconditioning of AS has a protective action against cerebral ischemic reperfusion injury.*

Experimental observation on the effect of Astragalus capsules in alleviating physical fatigue*

LI Feng-wen, LIANG Hui-Li, ZHAO Peng, Tan Huiyan, Li Bin, Zhang Jiehong, Huang Chaopei, Yang Junfeng. Zhong Guo Re Dai Yi Xue. 2008; 8(11): 1909-1910.

Objective To observe the effect of Astragalus capsules in alleviating physical fatigue. Methods The mice were fed with Astragalus capsule at the dosage of 134, 268 and 534mg/kg. bw, respectively, once a day for 30 days. Then let the mice swim in load, the function of Astragalus capsules in alleviating physical fatigue was analyzed by determining the mensuration of the swimming time, serum urea, the level of Liver glycogen and blood lactic acid. Results The swimming time of mice in experimental group was longer than that of the control group. The levels of urea and lactic acid of tired mice after swimming in the experimental group were lower than those of controls. The recovery rate of lactic acid in experimental was more faster than that of control. In addiction the level of liver glycogen increase significantly in experimental group as compared with the control (P<0.01). Conclusion It is suggested that Astragalus capsule can not only enhance the capability of adaptation to heavy exercise, but also have significant effect on prevention and elimination of lysis fatigue effect in physical strength after exercise.*

Astragali radix (Huang Qi; AR)

AR increases metabolic rate and cAMP (Zhang Yao...1985) but decreased cGMP in plasma but increased cAMP and cGMP in the spleen and increased cGMP in the liver (Zhong Cheng…1984). AR relieves copper induced oxidative stress and is similar to SOD as a free radical scavenger (Chen & Chen P.852). AR strongly inhibited strongly inhibited p16 and p21 (families of cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK) inhibitors) expression and protects cells against senescence (Wang et al 2008).*

Biotin

Biotin is necessary for cell growth, the production of fatty acids, and the metabolism of fats and amino acids. It plays a role in the citric acid cycle, which is the process by which biochemical energy is generated during aerobic respiration. Biotin not only assists in various metabolic reactions, but also helps to transfer carbon dioxide. Biotin is also helpful in maintaining a steady blood sugar level (Santa María et al 2009). Biotin is added as R-LA competes and depletes Biotin levels when R-LA is taken in amounts over 100 mg.*

D-Pinitol

D-pinitol (3-O-methyl-chiroinositol), an active principle of the traditional antidiabetic plant Bougainvillea spectabilis, is claimed to exert insulin-like effects.*

D-pinitol can exert an insulin-like effect to improve glycaemic control in hypo-insulinaemic STZ-diabetic mice. D-pinitol may act via a post-receptor pathway of insulin action affecting glucose uptake.(Bates et al 2000). D-Pinitol is a methylated sugar that is an isomer, or type of inositol. It is a naturally occurring insulin-like compound, found in pine trees, legumes, and in the flowers and leaves of many plants, which is extremely anabolic and acts as a powerful insulin mimicker. D-Pinitol has recently been subjected to an in vitro study exploring its effects upon living muscle cells. This unpublished study found high concentrations of D-Pinitol to increase glucose uptake and glycogen synthesis in these cells, the former occurring even in the absence of insulin. This latter element suggests that D-Pinitol may exert true insulin mimetic effects, and proper D-Pinitol supplementation will boost post-exercise glycogen synthesis, delivering more nutrients to the muscle cell for fuel, growth, and shortening recovery time.*

Biotin is added as ALA competes and depletes Biotin levels when ALA is taken in amounts over 100 mg.*

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.