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Herbert Kolodziej - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.

  • anti infective activities of Pelargonium Sidoides eps 7630 effects of induced no production on leishmania major in infected macrophages and antiviral effects as assessed in a fibroblast virus protection assay
    Planta Medica, 2011
    Co-Authors: Carsten Thale, Albrecht F Kiderlen, Herbert Kolodziej
    Abstract:

    EPs ® 7630 is an aqueous-ethanolic extract of the roots of Pelargonium Sidoides, employed in the treatment of upper respiratory tract infections. Its anti-infective activity is supposed to be associated with the activation of the nonspecific immune system. Using Leishmania major GFP-infected murine BMMΦ, the NO production of EPs ® 7630-activated macrophages was correlated with the reduction of the GFP signal measured at single cell levels using flow cytometry. The anti-infectious effect of EPs ® 7630 (3-10 μg/mL) on its own (NO production: 4-13 μM; signal reduction: 25-73%) was less prominent than that in combination with IFN-γ (100U/mL) (NO production: 20-27μM; signal reduction: 35-78%). Furthermore, supernatants of EPs ® 7630-stimulated AMMΦ (10 μg/mL) significantly reduced the cytopathic effect of EMCV on L929 fibroblasts (antiviral activity 80 U/mL) when compared with an IFN-γ standard (100U/mL). Direct addition of EPs ® 7630 to L929 did not mediate cytoprotective effects. The antiviral components induced in BMMΦ by EPs ® 7630 remain to be identified. Detection of any IFNs by ELISA was unsuccessful, which may be due to their very low concentrations in cell supernatants. The current data provide convincing support for the induction of anti-infectious responses by EPs ® 7630.

  • evaluation of an aqueous ethanolic extract from Pelargonium Sidoides eps 7630 for its activity against group a streptococci adhesion to human hep 2 epithelial cells
    Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2011
    Co-Authors: Aneta Janecki, Uwe Frank, Andreas Conrad, Inge Engels, Herbert Kolodziej
    Abstract:

    Abstract Aim of the study The root extract of Pelargonium Sidoides DC (Geraniaceae), EPs ® 7630, is currently used to treat respiratory tract infections. The therapeutic benefits are largely related to the modulation of the non-specific immune system. The present study was designed to investigate the anti-adhesive activity of this herbal medicine with Streptococcus pyogenes as model microorganism and to identify the underlying biologically active principle. Materials and methods Adherence of fluorescent-labelled group A-streptococci (GAS) to human epithelial (HEp-2) cells was assessed by flow cytometry. Anti-adhesive properties of the parent extract as well as a methanol-soluble (MSF) and a methanol-insoluble fraction (MIF) derived thereof were examined. Treatment with skin powder produced polyphenol-free samples which were included for comparison. Anti-adherence studies were extended to a series of highly purified proanthocyanidins including homogenous epicatechin- and catechin-based polyflavans, a ‘mixed’ procyanidin sample, an A-type proanthocyanidin mixture as well as a prodelphinidin test substance. Results After pre-treatment of GAS with EPs ® 7630 or its subfractions MIF and MSF at concentrations of 30 μg/ml, adhesion of the pathogen to HEp-2 cells was inhibited by ca. 45%, ca. 35% and ca. 30%, respectively. However, following preincubation of cells with the extract and the fractions no effect was observed. This finding indicates that the anti-adhesive effects are due to interactions with binding factors on the bacterial surface. Since polyphenol-free samples proved to be inactive, proanthocyanidins appear to represent the anti-adhesive principle. Comparative studies with chemically defined proanthocyanidins revealed that the prodelphinidin nature, i.e. the pyrogallol B-ring elements of constituent flavanyl units, represented an important structural feature of the anti-adhesive potential of this herbal medicine. Conclusions The current data provide strong evidence for a potent anti-adhesion principle of the Pelargonium Sidoides root extract related to specific proanthocyanidins. This finding suggests an interaction with bacterial binding sites in a specific rather than non-specific manner. However, the blocked adhesion molecules remain to be identified. The anti-adhesive mechanism may well contribute to the anti-infective activity of EPs ® 7630 at an early time point of a bacterial infection.

  • aqueous ethanolic extract of the roots of Pelargonium Sidoides new scientific evidence for an old anti infective phytopharmaceutical
    Planta Medica, 2008
    Co-Authors: Herbert Kolodziej
    Abstract:

    Among the Pelargonium-based herbal remedies that are widely used in traditional medical systems in the Southern African region is a highly valued root medicine (commonly termed UMCKALOABO) of initially unknown botanical origin for the treatment of infectious conditions of the respiratory tract including tuberculosis. Nowadays, a modern aqueous-ethanolic formulation of the roots of Pelargonium Sidoides (EPs 7630), developed from this traditional medicine, is successfully employed for the treatment of bronchitis. The article summarizes the fascinating story of this herbal medicine including its way to Europe, identification of the botanical origin, and provides background information of the many profound anti-infectious actions and clinical studies. In spite of considerable effort, the underlying chemical principle is still not clear.

  • fascinating metabolic pools of Pelargonium Sidoides and Pelargonium reniforme traditional and phytomedicinal sources of the herbal medicine umckaloabo
    Phytomedicine, 2007
    Co-Authors: Herbert Kolodziej
    Abstract:

    The metabolic pools of Pelargonium Sidoides DC and Pelargonium reniforme CURT, associated with the origin of the herbal medicine Umckaloabo, exhibit remarkable diversity and complexity. They comprise a variety of phenolic and polyphenolic compounds, a notable wealth of highly oxygenated simple coumarins and a number of miscellaneous uncommon metabolites. Noteworthy, the roots of both species express conspicuously distinct coumarin variations that facilitate their identification. Of the range of coumarins identified the titled species shared the ubiquitous scopoletin and the unique members 6,7,8-trihydroxycoumarin and 8-hydroxy-5,6,7-trimethoxycoumarin merely. Furthermore, the current data on the coumarin profiles suggest the occurrence of coumarin sulphates and coumarin glycosides to be apparently confined to P. Sidoides, while the occurrence of conventional proanthocyanidins was a common chemical feature. An unprecedented diterpene, designated as reniformin, was encountered in the roots of P. reniforme, possessing a novel diterpene skeleton linked to a unique p-oxyphenethansulfonic moiety. Coumarins were less abundant in the aerial parts of both species. These were rich in flavonoids and hydrolysable tannins including a unique series of O-galloyl-C-glucosylflavones (P. Sidoides and P. reniforme) and novel ellagitannins with a (1)C(4) glucopyranose core in P. reniforme, trivially named pelargoniins, accompanied by the new 4-allyl-2,5-dimethoxyphenol-1-beta-D-glucoside. These Pelargoniums have thus represented an attractive source of fascinating secondary metabolites. A proprietary extract of the roots of P. Sidoides, EPs 7630, has been developed from this traditional herbal medicine and introduced into modern phytotherapy in Europe. Structural examination of EPs 7630 constituents showed excellent agreement of the profile with that of P. Sidoides.

  • in vitro evaluation of antibacterial and immunomodulatory activities of Pelargonium reniforme Pelargonium Sidoides and the related herbal drug preparation eps 7630
    Phytomedicine, 2007
    Co-Authors: Herbert Kolodziej, Albrecht F Kiderlen
    Abstract:

    The importance of Pelargonium species, most notably Pelargonium reniforme and Pelargonium Sidoides, in traditional medicine in the Southern African region is well documented. Nowadays, a modern aqueous-ethanolic formulation of the roots of P. Sidoides (EPs) 7630) is successfully employed for the treatment of ear, nose and throat disorders as well as respiratory tract infections. To provide a scientific basis of its present utilization in phytomedicine, EPs 7630, extracts and isolated constituents of the titled Pelargoniums with emphasis on P. Sidoides were evaluated for antibacterial activity and for their effects on nonspecific immune functions. The samples exhibited merely moderate direct antibacterial capabilities against a spectrum of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Functional bioassays including an in vitro model for intracellular diseases, a fibroblast-lysis assay (tumour necrosis factor (TNF) activity), a fibroblast-virus protection assay (IFN activity) and a biochemical assay for nitric oxides revealed significant immunomodulatory properties. Gene expression experiments (iNOS, IFN-alpha, IFN-gamma, TNF-alpha, Interleukin (IL)-1, IL-10, IL12, IL-18) not only confirmed functional data, they also clearly showed differences in the response of infected macrophages when compared to that of noninfected cells. ELISA confirmed the protein production of TNF-alpha, IL-1alpha and IL-12, while FACS analyses reaffirmed the cytokines IL-1alpha and IL-12 at the singular cell level. The current data provide convincing support for the improvement of immune functions at various levels, hence, validating the medicinal uses of EPs 7630. Despite considerable efforts, the remedial effects cannot yet be related to a chemically defined principle.

Uwe Frank - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.

  • evaluation of an aqueous ethanolic extract from Pelargonium Sidoides eps 7630 for its activity against group a streptococci adhesion to human hep 2 epithelial cells
    Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2011
    Co-Authors: Aneta Janecki, Uwe Frank, Andreas Conrad, Inge Engels, Herbert Kolodziej
    Abstract:

    Abstract Aim of the study The root extract of Pelargonium Sidoides DC (Geraniaceae), EPs ® 7630, is currently used to treat respiratory tract infections. The therapeutic benefits are largely related to the modulation of the non-specific immune system. The present study was designed to investigate the anti-adhesive activity of this herbal medicine with Streptococcus pyogenes as model microorganism and to identify the underlying biologically active principle. Materials and methods Adherence of fluorescent-labelled group A-streptococci (GAS) to human epithelial (HEp-2) cells was assessed by flow cytometry. Anti-adhesive properties of the parent extract as well as a methanol-soluble (MSF) and a methanol-insoluble fraction (MIF) derived thereof were examined. Treatment with skin powder produced polyphenol-free samples which were included for comparison. Anti-adherence studies were extended to a series of highly purified proanthocyanidins including homogenous epicatechin- and catechin-based polyflavans, a ‘mixed’ procyanidin sample, an A-type proanthocyanidin mixture as well as a prodelphinidin test substance. Results After pre-treatment of GAS with EPs ® 7630 or its subfractions MIF and MSF at concentrations of 30 μg/ml, adhesion of the pathogen to HEp-2 cells was inhibited by ca. 45%, ca. 35% and ca. 30%, respectively. However, following preincubation of cells with the extract and the fractions no effect was observed. This finding indicates that the anti-adhesive effects are due to interactions with binding factors on the bacterial surface. Since polyphenol-free samples proved to be inactive, proanthocyanidins appear to represent the anti-adhesive principle. Comparative studies with chemically defined proanthocyanidins revealed that the prodelphinidin nature, i.e. the pyrogallol B-ring elements of constituent flavanyl units, represented an important structural feature of the anti-adhesive potential of this herbal medicine. Conclusions The current data provide strong evidence for a potent anti-adhesion principle of the Pelargonium Sidoides root extract related to specific proanthocyanidins. This finding suggests an interaction with bacterial binding sites in a specific rather than non-specific manner. However, the blocked adhesion molecules remain to be identified. The anti-adhesive mechanism may well contribute to the anti-infective activity of EPs ® 7630 at an early time point of a bacterial infection.

  • extract of Pelargonium Sidoides eps 7630 inhibits the interactions of group a streptococci and host epithelia in vitro
    Phytomedicine, 2007
    Co-Authors: Andreas Conrad, Inge Engels, Irina Jung, Diane Tioua, Caroline Lallemand, Felipe Carrapatoso, F Daschner, Uwe Frank
    Abstract:

    EPs 7630 is an extract of the root of the South African geranium Pelargonium Sidoides. Clinical data have shown that this herbal drug preparation can be used to treat upper respiratory tract infections (URTI). The objective of this study was to investigate the impact of EPs 7630 on group A-streptococci (GAS) adhering to and invading host epithelial cells in vitro. Adhesion was assessed by a flow cytometric adhesion assay using calcein-AM-stained S. pyogenes (DSM 2071) as test organism, and HEp-2 cells and buccal epithelial cells (BEC) as substrata. For cell invasion, HEp-2 cell monolayers were infected with S. pyogenes. Intracellular bacteria were determined using a penicillin/gentamicin-protection assay. EPs 7630 was applied in therapeutically relevant concentrations between 0 and 30 microg/ml in both test systems. Compared to controls, EPs 7630 significantly reduced GAS adhesion to HEp-2 cells in a concentration-dependent manner by up to 46% (p<0.001). This was semi-quantitatively confirmed by fluorescence microscopy. Adhesion kinetics additionally indicated a specific antagonistic effect on GAS adhesion. Pre-treatment of epithelial cells or GAS with EPs 7630 showed that it targets GAS rather than HEp-2 cells. However when using BEC as substrata, GAS adhesion increased 7-fold under the influence of EPs 7630 (p<0.001). In viability assays, HEp-2 suspension contained over 90% vital cells, whereas only 10% of the BEC were viable. EPs 7630 reduced GAS invasion of HEp-2 cells significantly when the data taken at time points 60, 120, and 180 min (p=0.026) were analyzed. In conclusion, EPs 7630 develops complementary anti-infective properties: Firstly, EPs 7630 reduces bacterial adhesion to intact epithelial cells and thus protects the organism from bacterial colonization and infection/super-infection. Secondly, EPs 7630 enhances the attachment of bacteria to decaying BEC. In this way pathogens may be trapped and rendered inactive. Thirdly, the inhibition of GAS invasion of epithelial cells protects the host from microorganisms that may have evaded host defences and antibiotic treatment, and therefore prevents recurrent infections. Thus, our investigations provide a rational basis for the treatment of URTI with EPs 7630.

  • extract of Pelargonium Sidoides eps 7630 improves phagocytosis oxidative burst and intracellular killing of human peripheral blood phagocytes in vitro
    Phytomedicine, 2007
    Co-Authors: Andreas Conrad, Inge Engels, F Daschner, Cathrin Hansmann, Uwe Frank
    Abstract:

    Clinical data show that EPs 7630, an aqueous ethanolic extract from the roots of Pelargonium Sidoides, can be used for the treatment of upper respiratory tract infections (URTI). The biological effects of the preparation have not been fully investigated. The objective of this study was to examine the impact of EPs 7630 on the activity of human peripheral blood phagocytes (PBP). A whole blood-based, flow cytometric assay was used to simultaneously assess phagocytosis and oxidative burst. Calcein-AM stained Candida albicans (DSM 1386) were used as target organisms. Oxidative burst was measured by addition of dihydroethidium (DHE). Target organisms and whole blood were co-incubated and analyzed after 0, 2, 4, 6, 10, and 30 min. Intracellular killing of the target organisms was evaluated by determining the number of surviving yeast cells after co-incubation of C. albicans and human whole blood. EPs 7630 was applied in therapeutically relevant concentrations between 0 and 30 microg/ml. Compared with controls EPs 7630 increased the number of phagocytosing PBP during the observed time points between 2 and 10 min in a concentration-dependent manner, with a maximum enhancement of 56% at 2 min (p=0.002). The application of EPs 7630 also led to a significant increase in the number of burst-active PBP for all time points observed beyond 2 min (p<0.001). The maximum augmentation was 120% after application of 30 microg/ml EPs 7630 at 4 min. Using a microbiological assay, intracellular killing was also enhanced by EPs 7630. This was expressed by a significant reduction in the number of surviving target organisms (p<0.001). The maximum reduction in viable yeast cells (-31%) was observed after co-incubation for 120 min with the highest concentration of EPs 7630 (30 microg/ml). In conclusion, the positive effects of EPs 7630 on phagocytosis, oxidative burst, and intracellular killing of yeast cells as test organisms are important components of the compound's biological activity. Our findings constitute a valuable contribution to understanding the clinical effects of EPs 7630.

  • extract of Pelargonium Sidoides eps 7630 displays anti infective properties by enhanced phagocytosis and differential modulation of host bacteria interactions
    Planta Medica, 2007
    Co-Authors: Andreas Conrad, Uwe Frank
    Abstract:

    EPs 7630 is an aqueous-ethanolic extract of the roots of Pelargonium Sidoides that displays well-documented benefits in the treatment of upper respiratory tract infections (URTI). IN VITRO and animal investigations have revealed various anti-infective properties of EPs 7630. The present review sums up recently published IN VITRO investigations that have shown positive effects on the activity of human peripheral blood phagocytes (PBP) and differential modulation of the interactions between group A streptococci and the host's epithelial barrier.

Andreas Conrad - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.

  • evaluation of an aqueous ethanolic extract from Pelargonium Sidoides eps 7630 for its activity against group a streptococci adhesion to human hep 2 epithelial cells
    Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2011
    Co-Authors: Aneta Janecki, Uwe Frank, Andreas Conrad, Inge Engels, Herbert Kolodziej
    Abstract:

    Abstract Aim of the study The root extract of Pelargonium Sidoides DC (Geraniaceae), EPs ® 7630, is currently used to treat respiratory tract infections. The therapeutic benefits are largely related to the modulation of the non-specific immune system. The present study was designed to investigate the anti-adhesive activity of this herbal medicine with Streptococcus pyogenes as model microorganism and to identify the underlying biologically active principle. Materials and methods Adherence of fluorescent-labelled group A-streptococci (GAS) to human epithelial (HEp-2) cells was assessed by flow cytometry. Anti-adhesive properties of the parent extract as well as a methanol-soluble (MSF) and a methanol-insoluble fraction (MIF) derived thereof were examined. Treatment with skin powder produced polyphenol-free samples which were included for comparison. Anti-adherence studies were extended to a series of highly purified proanthocyanidins including homogenous epicatechin- and catechin-based polyflavans, a ‘mixed’ procyanidin sample, an A-type proanthocyanidin mixture as well as a prodelphinidin test substance. Results After pre-treatment of GAS with EPs ® 7630 or its subfractions MIF and MSF at concentrations of 30 μg/ml, adhesion of the pathogen to HEp-2 cells was inhibited by ca. 45%, ca. 35% and ca. 30%, respectively. However, following preincubation of cells with the extract and the fractions no effect was observed. This finding indicates that the anti-adhesive effects are due to interactions with binding factors on the bacterial surface. Since polyphenol-free samples proved to be inactive, proanthocyanidins appear to represent the anti-adhesive principle. Comparative studies with chemically defined proanthocyanidins revealed that the prodelphinidin nature, i.e. the pyrogallol B-ring elements of constituent flavanyl units, represented an important structural feature of the anti-adhesive potential of this herbal medicine. Conclusions The current data provide strong evidence for a potent anti-adhesion principle of the Pelargonium Sidoides root extract related to specific proanthocyanidins. This finding suggests an interaction with bacterial binding sites in a specific rather than non-specific manner. However, the blocked adhesion molecules remain to be identified. The anti-adhesive mechanism may well contribute to the anti-infective activity of EPs ® 7630 at an early time point of a bacterial infection.

  • extract of Pelargonium Sidoides eps 7630 inhibits the interactions of group a streptococci and host epithelia in vitro
    Phytomedicine, 2007
    Co-Authors: Andreas Conrad, Inge Engels, Irina Jung, Diane Tioua, Caroline Lallemand, Felipe Carrapatoso, F Daschner, Uwe Frank
    Abstract:

    EPs 7630 is an extract of the root of the South African geranium Pelargonium Sidoides. Clinical data have shown that this herbal drug preparation can be used to treat upper respiratory tract infections (URTI). The objective of this study was to investigate the impact of EPs 7630 on group A-streptococci (GAS) adhering to and invading host epithelial cells in vitro. Adhesion was assessed by a flow cytometric adhesion assay using calcein-AM-stained S. pyogenes (DSM 2071) as test organism, and HEp-2 cells and buccal epithelial cells (BEC) as substrata. For cell invasion, HEp-2 cell monolayers were infected with S. pyogenes. Intracellular bacteria were determined using a penicillin/gentamicin-protection assay. EPs 7630 was applied in therapeutically relevant concentrations between 0 and 30 microg/ml in both test systems. Compared to controls, EPs 7630 significantly reduced GAS adhesion to HEp-2 cells in a concentration-dependent manner by up to 46% (p<0.001). This was semi-quantitatively confirmed by fluorescence microscopy. Adhesion kinetics additionally indicated a specific antagonistic effect on GAS adhesion. Pre-treatment of epithelial cells or GAS with EPs 7630 showed that it targets GAS rather than HEp-2 cells. However when using BEC as substrata, GAS adhesion increased 7-fold under the influence of EPs 7630 (p<0.001). In viability assays, HEp-2 suspension contained over 90% vital cells, whereas only 10% of the BEC were viable. EPs 7630 reduced GAS invasion of HEp-2 cells significantly when the data taken at time points 60, 120, and 180 min (p=0.026) were analyzed. In conclusion, EPs 7630 develops complementary anti-infective properties: Firstly, EPs 7630 reduces bacterial adhesion to intact epithelial cells and thus protects the organism from bacterial colonization and infection/super-infection. Secondly, EPs 7630 enhances the attachment of bacteria to decaying BEC. In this way pathogens may be trapped and rendered inactive. Thirdly, the inhibition of GAS invasion of epithelial cells protects the host from microorganisms that may have evaded host defences and antibiotic treatment, and therefore prevents recurrent infections. Thus, our investigations provide a rational basis for the treatment of URTI with EPs 7630.

  • extract of Pelargonium Sidoides eps 7630 improves phagocytosis oxidative burst and intracellular killing of human peripheral blood phagocytes in vitro
    Phytomedicine, 2007
    Co-Authors: Andreas Conrad, Inge Engels, F Daschner, Cathrin Hansmann, Uwe Frank
    Abstract:

    Clinical data show that EPs 7630, an aqueous ethanolic extract from the roots of Pelargonium Sidoides, can be used for the treatment of upper respiratory tract infections (URTI). The biological effects of the preparation have not been fully investigated. The objective of this study was to examine the impact of EPs 7630 on the activity of human peripheral blood phagocytes (PBP). A whole blood-based, flow cytometric assay was used to simultaneously assess phagocytosis and oxidative burst. Calcein-AM stained Candida albicans (DSM 1386) were used as target organisms. Oxidative burst was measured by addition of dihydroethidium (DHE). Target organisms and whole blood were co-incubated and analyzed after 0, 2, 4, 6, 10, and 30 min. Intracellular killing of the target organisms was evaluated by determining the number of surviving yeast cells after co-incubation of C. albicans and human whole blood. EPs 7630 was applied in therapeutically relevant concentrations between 0 and 30 microg/ml. Compared with controls EPs 7630 increased the number of phagocytosing PBP during the observed time points between 2 and 10 min in a concentration-dependent manner, with a maximum enhancement of 56% at 2 min (p=0.002). The application of EPs 7630 also led to a significant increase in the number of burst-active PBP for all time points observed beyond 2 min (p<0.001). The maximum augmentation was 120% after application of 30 microg/ml EPs 7630 at 4 min. Using a microbiological assay, intracellular killing was also enhanced by EPs 7630. This was expressed by a significant reduction in the number of surviving target organisms (p<0.001). The maximum reduction in viable yeast cells (-31%) was observed after co-incubation for 120 min with the highest concentration of EPs 7630 (30 microg/ml). In conclusion, the positive effects of EPs 7630 on phagocytosis, oxidative burst, and intracellular killing of yeast cells as test organisms are important components of the compound's biological activity. Our findings constitute a valuable contribution to understanding the clinical effects of EPs 7630.

  • Pelargonium Sidoides extrakt eps 7630 zulassung bestatigt wirksamkeit und vertraglichkeit
    Wiener Medizinische Wochenschrift, 2007
    Co-Authors: Andreas Conrad, Herbert Kolodziej, Volker Schulz
    Abstract:

    For centuries the roots of Pelargonium Sidoides DC have been used in South African ethno-medicine for the treatment of respiratory diseases. In Germany, a medicinal product containing a special extract of this substance is among the group of self-medication products most widely bought at chemist's shops. In December 2005, the Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices (BfArM, Bonn) approved a new license for its use as a drug. The following review focuses on the current pharmacological, toxicological and clinical data covering the efficacy and innocuousness of this drug when administered for the treatment of acute bronchitis.

  • extract of Pelargonium Sidoides eps 7630 displays anti infective properties by enhanced phagocytosis and differential modulation of host bacteria interactions
    Planta Medica, 2007
    Co-Authors: Andreas Conrad, Uwe Frank
    Abstract:

    EPs 7630 is an aqueous-ethanolic extract of the roots of Pelargonium Sidoides that displays well-documented benefits in the treatment of upper respiratory tract infections (URTI). IN VITRO and animal investigations have revealed various anti-infective properties of EPs 7630. The present review sums up recently published IN VITRO investigations that have shown positive effects on the activity of human peripheral blood phagocytes (PBP) and differential modulation of the interactions between group A streptococci and the host's epithelial barrier.

Winfried V Kern - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.

  • Pelargonium Sidoides extract for treating acute respiratory tract infections
    Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 2013
    Co-Authors: Antje Timmer, Judith Gunther, Gerta Rucker, Edith Motschall, Gerd Antes, Winfried V Kern
    Abstract:

    Background Pelargonium Sidoides (P. Sidoides), also known as Umckaloabo, is a herbal remedy thought to be effective in the treatment of acute respiratory infections (ARIs). Objectives To assess the efficacy and safety of P. Sidoides for the treatment of ARIs in children and adults. Search methods In April 2013 we searched MEDLINE, Journals@Ovid, The Cochrane Library, Biosis Previews, Web of Science, CINAHL, CCMed, XToxline, Global Health, AMED, Derwent Drug File and Backfile, IPA, ISTPB + ISTP/ISSHP, EMBASE, Cambase, LILACS, PubMed component “Supplied by Publisher”, TRIPdatabase, the publisher databases: Deutsches Arzteblatt, Thieme, Springer, ScienceDirect from Elsevier. We conducted a cited reference search (forward) in Web of Science of relevant papers for inclusion. In addition we searched the study registries ClinicalTrials.gov, Deutsches Register klinischer Studien DRKS (German Clinical Trials Register), International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (ICTRP) – WHO ICTRP, Current Controlled Trials and EU Clinical Trials Register. Selection criteria Double-blind, randomized controlled trials (RCTs) examining the efficacy of P. Sidoides preparations in ARIs compared to placebo or any other treatment. Complete resolution of all symptoms was defined as the primary outcome; in addition, we examined resolution of predefined key symptoms. Data collection and analysis At least two review authors (AT, JG, WK) independently extracted and quality scored the data. We performed separate analyses by age group and disease entity. Subanalysis considered type of preparation (liquid, tablets). We examined heterogeneity using the I2 statistic. We calculated pooled risk ratios (RR) using a fixed-effect model if heterogeneity was absent (I2 0.1), or a random-effects model in the presence of heterogeneity. If heterogeneity was substantial (I2 > 50%; P < 0.10), a pooled effect was not calculated. Main results Of 10 eligible studies eight were included in the analyses; two were of insufficient quality. Three trials (746 patients, low quality of evidence) of efficacy in acute bronchitis in adults showed effectiveness for most outcomes in the liquid preparation but not for tablets. Three other trials (819 children, low quality of evidence) showed similar results for acute bronchitis in children. For both meta-analyses, we did not pool subtotals due to relevant heterogeneity induced by type of preparation. One study in patients with sinusitis (n = 103 adults, very low quality of evidence) showed significant treatment effects (complete resolution at day 21; RR 0.43, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.30 to 0.62). One study in the common cold demonstrated efficacy after 10 days, but not five days (very low quality of evidence). We rated the study quality as moderate for all studies (unvalidated outcome assessment, minor attrition problems, investigator-initiated trials only). Based on the funnel plot there was suspicion of publication bias. There were no valid data for the treatment of other acute respiratory tract infections. Adverse events were more common with P. Sidoides, but none were serious. Authors' conclusions P. Sidoides may be effective in alleviating symptoms of acute rhinosinusitis and the common cold in adults, but doubt exists. It may be effective in relieving symptoms in acute bronchitis in adults and children, and sinusitis in adults. The overall quality of the evidence was considered low for main outcomes in acute bronchitis in children and adults, and very low for acute sinusitis and the common cold. Reliable data on treatment for other ARIs were not identified.

  • Pelargonium Sidoides extract for acute respiratory tract infections
    Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 2008
    Co-Authors: Antje Timmer, Judith Gunther, Gerta Rucker, Edith Motschall, Gerd Antes, Winfried V Kern
    Abstract:

    Background Pelargonium Sidoides (P. Sidoides), also known as Umckaloabo, is a herbal remedy thought to be effective in the treatment of acute respiratory infections (ARIs). Objectives To assess the efficacy and safety of P. Sidoides for the treatment of ARIs in children and adults. Search methods We searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) (The Cochrane Library 2007, issue 4) which includes the Cochrane Acute Respiratory Infections Group's Specialised Register; MEDLINE (1966 to November 2007); EMBASE (1974 to December 2007); and other electronic databases. Selection criteria Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) examining the efficacy of P. Sidoides preparations in ARIs compared to placebo, no treatment or any other treatment. Complete resolution of all symptoms was defined as a primary outcome. Data collection and analysis Three review authors (AT, JG, WK) independently extracted and quality scored the data. Separate analyses were performed by age group and disease entity. Heterogeneity was examined using the I-square (I2) statistic. Pooled relative risks (RR) were calculated using a fixed-effect model if heterogeneity was absent (I2 0.1), or a random-effects model in the presence of heterogeneity. If heterogeneity was substantial (I2 > 50%; P < 0.10), a pooled effect was not calculated. Main results Three trials (746 patients) of efficacy in acute bronchitis in adults showed substantial heterogeneity for all relevant outcomes. and three trials (819 children) were similarly inconsistent for acute bronchitis in children. Type of preparation was a potential cause of heterogeneity (not effective in tablet form). One unpublished study in patients with sinusitis (n = 103 adults) showed significant treatment effects (complete resolution at day 21; RR 0.43, 95% CI 0.30, 0.62). One study in the common cold demonstrating efficacy after 10 days, but not five days. Four trials were excluded because of excessive risk of bias. There were no valid data for the treatment of other acute respiratory tract infections. Adverse events were more common with P. Sidoides, but none were serious. Authors' conclusions P. Sidoides may be effective in alleviating symptoms of acute rhinosinusitis and the common cold in adults, but doubt exists. It may be effective in relieving symptoms in acute bronchitis in adults and children, and sinusitis in adults. Reliable data on treatment for other ARIs were not identified.

Birgit Classen - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.

  • arabinogalactan proteins stimulate somatic embryogenesis and plant propagation of Pelargonium Sidoides
    Carbohydrate Polymers, 2016
    Co-Authors: S Duchow, Renate I Dahlke, Thomas Geske, W Blaschek, Birgit Classen
    Abstract:

    Root extracts of the medicinal plant Pelargonium Sidoides, native to South Africa, are used globally for the treatment of common cold and cough. Due to an increasing economic commercialization of P. Sidoides remedies, wild collections of root material should be accompanied by effective methods for plant propagation like somatic embryogenesis. Based on this, the influence of arabinogalactan-proteins (AGPs) on somatic embryogenesis and plant propagation of P. Sidoides has been investigated. High-molecular weight AGPs have been isolated from dried roots as well as from cell cultures of P. Sidoides with yields between 0.1% and 0.9%, respectively. AGPs are characterized by a 1,3-linked Galp backbone, branched at C6 to 1,6-linked Galp side chains terminated by Araf and to a minor extent by GlcpA, Galp or Rhap. Treatment of explants of P. Sidoides with AGPs from roots or suspension culture over 5.5 weeks resulted in effective stimulation of somatic embryo development and plant regeneration.

  • reproduction of the medicinal plant Pelargonium Sidoides via somatic embryogenesis
    Planta Medica, 2015
    Co-Authors: S Duchow, W Blaschek, Birgit Classen
    Abstract:

    The medicinal plant Pelargonium Sidoides DC. (Geraniaceae) was traditionally used for the treatment of the common cold and cough in South Africa. Today an aequous-ethanolic root extract from this plant is approved for the treatment of acute bronchitis and is globally marketed also as an immunostimulant. The increasing demand of the plant material for the industrial production indicates the need of new effective methods for the propagation of P. Sidoides . Here we report somatic embryogenesis and in vitro plantlet regeneration from somatic cells of inflorescence shoots and petioles of P. Sidoides . A one-week cultivation of explants in media containing different concentrations of thidiazuron (1, 2.2, 3, and 4 mg/L) followed by a cultivation period without phytohormones resulted in the induction of somatic embryos within 2–4 weeks. After 2–4 months, the embryos generated roots and could be transferred into a greenhouse, where flower formation took place and the development of seeds occurred with high germination rates. The root umckalin concentration, determined by high-performance thin-layer chromatography, was comparable to that of seed-cultivated plants (100 ± 6 vs. 113 ± 10 µg umckalin/g dried roots). For the first time, direct somatic embryogenesis has been established as an appropriate cultivation method for P. Sidoides plants used as raw material in the pharmaceutical industry. Moreover, genetically identical plants (chemical races) can be easily generated by this procedure.