New Gas Chromatography Products for 2019–2020

Among Armstrong's many accomplishments is the development of ionic liquid stationary phases for capillary GC. [...]the American Chemical Society Division of Analytical Chemistry Satinder Ahuja New Investigator Award in Separation Science was presented to. Table III provides a listing of accessories and consumables launched over the past year. Besides several short courses associated with Pittcon, additional training and educational resources are available for 2020.

Two years of volatile organic compound online in situ measurements at the Site Instrumental de Recherche par Télédétection Atmosphérique (Paris region, France) using proton-transfer-reaction mass spectrometry

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) have direct influences on air quality and climate. They indeed play a key role in atmospheric chemistry as precursors of secondary pollutants, such as ozone (O3) and secondary organic aerosols (SOA). In this respect, long-term datasets of in situ atmospheric measurements are crucial for characterizing the variability of atmospheric chemical composition, its sources, and trends. The ongoing establishment of the Aerosols, Cloud, and Trace gases Research InfraStructure (ACTRIS) allows implementation of the collection and provision of such high-quality datasets. In this context, online and continuous measurements of O3, nitrogen oxides (NOx), and aerosols have been carried out since 2012 at the SIRTA (Site Instrumental de Recherche par Télédétection Atmosphérique) observatory, located in the Paris region, France. Within the last decade, VOC measurements were conducted offline at SIRTA, until the implementation of real-time monitoring which started in January 2020 using a proton-transfer-reaction quadrupole mass spectrometer (PTR-Q-MS).The dataset acquired during the first 2 years of online VOC measurements provides insights into their seasonal and diurnal variabilities. The additional long-term datasets obtained from co-located measurements (NOx, aerosol physical and chemical properties, meteorological parameters) are used to better characterize the atmospheric conditions and to further interpret the obtained results. Results also include insights into VOC main sources and the influence of meteorological conditions and air mass origin on their levels in the Paris region. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the year 2020 notably saw a quasi-total lockdown in France in spring and a lighter one in autumn. Therefore, the focus is placed on the impact of these lockdowns on the VOC variability and sources. A change in the behaviour of VOC markers for anthropogenic sources was observed during the first lockdown, reflecting a change in human activities. A comparison with gas chromatography data from the Paris city centre consolidates the regional representativity of the SIRTA station for benzene, while differences are observed for shorter-lived compounds with a notable impact of their local sources. This dataset could be further used as input for atmospheric models and can be found at 10.14768/f8c46735-e6c3-45e2-8f6f-26c6d67c4723 (Simon et al., 2022a).

Analysis of 70% Alcohol and Impurities: Analytical Methods, Quality Control, Health Risks and Legislation

In March 2020, COVID-19 was declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization, which led to a series of recommendations regarding personal hygiene, among which, the use of alcohol 70% as hand sanitizers. Due to the great demand for this product, it became scarce and the regulatory agencies made the legislation for production by some industries, manipulation pharmacies, and laboratories more flexible. This situation promoted the commercialization of alcohol-based products within concentrations outside of the limits, compromising their efficiency. Therefore, this is important that these products are submitted to rigorous quality control to avoid harm issues to human health. However, ANVISA does not specify an official method for monitoring alcohol 70%, especially when impurities are present. Within this context, the present work aims to present the use of the classic technique, such as the gas chromatography, as well some alternative analytical methods applied to alcohol 70% determination, taking into account literature reports published in the last two pandemic years.

Disposable Polypropylene Face Masks: A Potential Source of Micro/Nanoparticles and Organic Contaminates in Humans.

We have been effectively protected by disposable propylene face masks during the COVID-19 pandemic; however, they may pose health risks due to the release of fine particles and chemicals. We measured micro/nanoparticles and organic chemicals in disposable medical masks, surgical masks, and (K)N95 respirators. In the breathing-simulation experiment, no notable differences were found in the total number of particles among mask types or between breathing intensities. However, when considering subranges, <2.5 µm particles accounted for ∼90% of the total number of micro/nanoparticles. GC-HRMS-based suspect screening tentatively revealed 79 (semi)volatile organic compounds in masks, with 18 being detected in ≥80% of samples and 44 in ≤20% of samples. Three synthetic phenolic antioxidants were quantified, and AO168 reached a median concentration of 2968 ng/g. By screening particles collected from bulk mask fabrics, we detected 18 chemicals, including four commonly detected in masks, suggesting chemical partition between the particles and the fabric fibers and chemical exposure via particle inhalation. These particles and chemicals are believed to originate from raw materials, intentionally and nonintentionally added substances in mask production, and their transformation products. This study highlights the need to study the long-term health risks associated with mask wearing and raises concerns over mask quality control.

Teaching Analytical Instrumentation Through Remote Access – A Gas Chromatography Perspective

An approach to online laboratory exercises for analytical chemistry students with demonstrated practical exercises through the use of remote-controlled gas chromatography (GC) instrumentation is discussed. The approach allows for a practical-based learning activity to be carried out by students who are unable to attend in-person laboratory exercises and was conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic. Learning activities focused on the operation of GC instrumentation were completed prior to a research-based analysis activity being conducted by students. At the end of this experiment, the students are expected to understand, independently operate, and learn how to achieve better separation through the manipulation of GC settings, such as split/splitless injections, carrier gas flow rate, and oven temperature, and apply principles of GC to a practical application. Additional flexibility from this approach could also be beneficial during postpandemic and/or in the circumstance where students cannot physically attend the class.

Teaching Analytical Instrumentation Through Remote Access - A Gas Chromatography Perspective

An approach to online laboratory exercises for analytical chemistry students with demonstrated practical exercises through the use of remote-controlled gas chromatography (GC) instrumentation is discussed. The approach allows for a practical-based learning activity to be carried out by students who are unable to attend in-person laboratory exercises and was conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic. Learning activities focused on the operation of GC instrumentation were completed prior to a research-based analysis activity being conducted by students. At the end of this experiment, the students are expected to understand, independently operate, and learn how to achieve better separation through the manipulation of GC settings, such as split/splitless injections, carrier gas flow rate, and oven temperature, and apply principles of GC to a practical application. Additional flexibility from this approach could also be beneficial during postpandemic and/or in the circumstance where students cannot physically attend the class. © 2023 American Chemical Society and Division of Chemical Education, Inc.

Content and economic evaluation of omega-3 fatty acid nutritional supplements

Marinederived omega3 fatty acids, namely eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) are abundant in seafood and fish oils. They are recommended for their many health benefits. There has been a large and sustained growth in sales of nutritional supplements containing omega3 fatty acids during the COVID-19 pandemic. In this study, a total of 54 omega3 fatty acids supplement products of various brands available in Turkey was analysed for their fatty acids content using gas chromatography. In 59.3 % of the products examined, EPA plus DHA content was found to be less than what was stated on the label. It was observed that 25.9 % could meet the daily EPA+DHA need with a capsule or a measure of consumption. Overall, 35.2 % of products were found satisfactory in terms of providing 80 % or more of the daily EPA+DHA requirement with a capsule or a measure of consumption and advantageous in terms of contents and price. The remaining 64.8 % of products could not provide 80 % of the daily EPA+DHA requirement with a single capsule. This study provided information on the accuracy of the declared contents of omega3 fatty acids supplements and evaluated the advantages for the consumers.

Extraction and characterization of metabolites from Olea europaea pulp and their molecular docking against SARS-CoV-2 main-protease (Mpro).

The present study is the first to extract the bioactive metabolites from Olea europaea fruit using the Soxhlet-maceration extraction method. The preliminary phytochemical; Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR); gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analyses, and their potential against SARS-CoV-2 Mpro through molecular docking were studied. The preliminary qualitative phytochemical analyses showed coumarin glycosides, tannins, terpenoids, cholesterol, carbohydrates, and proteins. FT-IR spectroscopy revealed C-H, C = O, O-H, C-N, C-O-C, C-O, CO-O-CO, C = C, and C-Br functional groups in the extract. GC-MS analysis was done and the compounds detected were docked against SARS-CoV-2 Mpro using AutoDock Vina.The squalene (ΔG = -6.2 kcal/mol) posed the best inhibition potential and was comparable with the control drug remdesivir. The compounds possessed excellent pharmacokinetic and toxicity properties and are safe and reliable. Thus, the present research unveiled the valuable metabolites from O. europaea and their antiviral potential against the SARS-CoV-2.

Role and the importance of green approach in biosynthesis of nanopropolis and effectiveness of propolis in the treatment of COVID-19 pandemic

The most fascinating product of honeybee is propolis. It has an immense role in dentistry, dermatology, and otorhinolaryngology. The increased popularity of propolis as an important remedy is due to its constituents, which have anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, antihepatotoxic, anti-cancerous, antifungal, antioxidant, antidiabetic, and antiviral activities. The diverse biological and pharmacological activities of propolis have piqued the interest of many scientists. Many techniques like gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, chromatography, and spectroscopy are being used to identify different propolis constituents. Flavonoids, phenolic acids, and their esters are the most pharmacologically active molecules of propolis and are known to disrupt the replication machinery of the virus corroborating the anti-coronavirus activity of propolis. The main aim of this article is to provide an insight of the increasing theragnostic uses of propolis and its nanoparticles, including their chemical analysis, diverse biological activities, and the necessity for chemical standardization. In this review, we have focused at the promising effects of propolis, its optimization, and its liposomal formulation as a therapeutic intervention for COVID-19 and its accompanying comorbidities. © 2023 the author(s), published by De Gruyter.

An insight into the immunomodulatory potential of wood oil of Aquilaria malaccensis Lam. with an emphasis into related phytomedicine, biomarkers, pharmacology, and toxicity

Critically endangered Aquilaria malaccensis Lam. is known for highly expensive agarwood with unique aroma. Agarwood has been used as a phytomedicine in chronic degenerative neurological disorders, paralysis, rheumatism, asthma, and others. Its production is dependent naturally or artificially on interaction of endophytic fungi, and by nailing, drilling, and microbial inoculation respectively. The majorly produced biomarkers of terpenes, fatty acids, alkanes, chromones, and flavonoids exhibited several biological activities in congruence to their ethnomedicinal claims. During the pandemic, several in-silico, studies showed the potential of a few sesquiterpene hydrocarbons against covid-19. The review aimed to deliver a comprehensive outline of the immunomodulatory potential of agarwood oil with allied traditional medicinal use, biomarkers, pharmacological evaluation, toxicity, and mechanistic action. The review eventually showed the agarwood oil, extracts, and major biomarkers viz., aromadendrene II, valencene, phytol, octacosane, caryophyllene oxide, b-caryophyllene, hinesol, agarospirol, with immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, and allied neural, antidiabetic, antimicrobial activity, toxicity, along with molecular target binding potential against 3CLpro, RDRP, Mpro, PLpro, Spike protein S1 of SARS-CoV2 through in-vitro, in-vivo, in silico studies and limited human clinical trials. The expression of HMGR, ASS, ADXPS, ADXPR, FPS, and WRKY genes of sesquiterpenoid biosynthetic pathways were upregulated for signature aroma and immunomodulatory markers viz., d-guaiene, dodecane, tetracosane, agarospirol, farnesol, and geranylgeraniol acetate as a defensive response. The review would ignite future research on potential immunomodulatory markers viz., caryophyllene oxide, octacosane, heneicosane, agarospirol, n-hexadecanoic acid, a-eudesmol, a-santalol and inoculum guided invitro agarwood production restoring the prized aroma, therapeutic efficacy, and wild population. (c) 2022 SAAB. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Investigation on the Essential Oils of the Achillea Species: From Chemical Analysis to the In Silico Uptake against SARS-CoV-2 Main Protease.

In this study, phytochemicals extracted from three different Achillea genera were identified and analyzed to be screened for their interactions with the SARS-CoV-2 main protease. In particular, the antiviral potential of these natural products against the SARS-CoV-2 main protease was investigated, as was their effectiveness against the SARS-CoV-1 main protease as a standard (due to its high similarity with SARS-CoV-2). These enzymes play key roles in the proliferation of viral strains in the human cytological domain. GC-MS analysis was used to identify the essential oils of the Achillea species. Chemi-informatics tools, such as AutoDock 4.2.6, SwissADME, ProTox-II, and LigPlot, were used to investigate the action of the pharmacoactive compounds against the main proteases of SARS-CoV-1 and SARS-CoV-2. Based on the binding energies of kessanyl acetate, chavibetol (m-eugenol), farnesol, and 7-epi-ß-eudesmol were localized at the active site of the coronaviruses. Furthermore, these molecules, through hydrogen bonding with the amino acid residues of the active sites of viral proteins, were found to block the progression of SARS-CoV-2. Screening and computer analysis provided us with the opportunity to consider these molecules for further preclinical studies. Furthermore, considering their low toxicity, the data may pave the way for new in vitro and in vivo research on these natural inhibitors of the main SARS-CoV-2 protease.

Chemical profile of anti-epidemic sachet based on multiple sample preparation coupled with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis combined with an embedded peaks resolution method and their action mechanisms.

The anti-epidemic sachet (Fang Yi Xiang Nang, FYXN) in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) can prevent COVID-19 through volatile compounds that can play the role of fragrant and dampness, heat-clearing and detoxifying, warding off filth and pathogenic factors. Nevertheless, the anti-(mutant) SARS-CoV-2 compounds and the compounds related to the mechanism in vivo, and the mechanism of FYXN are still vague. In this study, the volatile compound set of FYXN was constructed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) based on multiple sample preparation methods, which include headspace (HS), headspace solid phase microextraction (HS-SPME) and pressurized liquid extraction (PLE). In addition, selective ion analysis (SIA) was used to resolve embedded chromatographic peaks present in HS-SPME results. Preliminary analysis of active compounds and mechanism of FYXN by network pharmacology combined with disease pathway information based on GC-MS results. A total of 96 volatile compounds in FYXN were collected by GC-MS analysis. 39 potential anti-viral compounds were screened by molecular docking. 13 key pathways were obtained by KEGG pathway analysis (PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, HIF-1 signaling pathway, etc.) for FYXN to prevent COVID-19. 16 anti-viral compounds (C95, C91, etc.), 10 core targets (RELA, MAPK1, etc.), and 16 key compounds related to the mechanism in vivo (C56, C30, etc.) were obtained by network analysis. The relevant pharmacological effects of key pathways and key compounds were verified by the literature. Finally, molecular docking was used to verify the relationship between core targets and key compounds, which are related to the mechanism in vivo. A variety of sample preparation methods coupled with GC-MS analysis combined with an embedded peaks resolution method and integrated with network pharmacology can not only comprehensively characterize the volatile compounds in FYXN, but also expand the network pharmacology research ideas, and help to discover the active compounds and mechanisms in FYXN.

Interest of drug checking supply: Results of 3 years of activity in Geneva

Aim: Swiss drug policy aims to reduce recreational drug consumption and its negative consequences. The strategy is based on a four pillars concept: prevention, therapy, harm reduction and repression. Among harm reduction programs drug checking (DC) facilities have emerged, allowing drug users to check the presence of adulterants or other non-expected substances, and to gain information concerning the purity of the product, without encouraging drug consumption. In 2019, one DC opened in Geneva (Switzerland) after receiving an authorization from the Federal Office of Public Health, and the results of 3 years of activity are presented. Method(s): Drug users brought samples anonymously to DC. Samples were send to the laboratory for analyses, and results are transmitted to DC, where drug users could obtained and discussed the results. Samples were dissolved in methanol, and a general unknown screening was performed by using gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC-MS) directly and after acetylation. Depending of the substances, quantitative analyses were performed by using GC-MS, liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS), or liquid chromatography coupled to diode array detector (LC-DAD). Result(s): A total of 883 samples were analyzed from June 2019 to April 2022. The majority of samples were powders (67%), tablets (11%), plants (8%), and blotting papers (6%). For 71 samples (8%) the detected substances did not correspond to those announced by consumers, and in 23 samples (3%), no psychoactive substances were detected. Cocaine was detected in 290 samples (33%), with a median purity of 75%. In these samples, 11% contained also levamisole, 11% caffeine, and 7% phenacetin. Sympathomimetics were detected in 278 samples (31%). MDMA (16%), amphetamine (4.8%), 3-MMC (3.3%), 2C-B (2.6%), and 4-MMC (1.4%) were the most detected substances in this group of substances. MDMA was detected in powder specimen with a median purity of 85%, and in tablet form with a median amount of 133 mg (range: 3-320 mg). More rarely, methamphetamine, MDEA, 6-APB, 2C-D, 2C-E, BOD, 2-Br-4,5-DMPEA, DOB, DOC, DOM, MBDB, 3-FA, 5-MMPA, 5-MAPB, and 4-CMC were observed. Cannabinoids were detected in 84 samples (9.5%), and among these samples, 11 contained synthetic cannabinoids [5-Fluoro-MDMB-PINACA (3 cases);MDMB-4en-PINACA (8 cases)]. LSD and other hallucinogenic substances (1cP-LSD, psilocin, DMT, 4-ACO-DMT, 4-HO-MET) were detected in 85 samples (9.6%). Ketamine was detected in 68 cases (7.7%), with a median purity of 76%. Heroin was detected in 64 cases (7.2%), with a median purity of 20%. Benzodiazepines (alprazolam or etizolam) were detected in 7 cases (0.8%). The DC activity reached out to consumers who were not yet connected to prevention structures. The prevalence of the detected substances in the DC samples analyzed confirmed roughly what was known about the local market for illicit substances. However, some unexpected results were observed, such as the number of samples containing ketamine, or some new psychoactive substances. Interestingly, a couple of months after the beginning of COVID pandemic, 2 synthetic cannabinoids never detected before in Western Switzerland were observed, showing the interest of the DC facility in a harm reduction strategy, and more generally for public health prevention. Conclusion(s): Knowledge concerning the market of illicit psychoactive substances is complex and often difficult to assess. In this context, the analyses carried out for the Geneva DC have demonstrated a definite interest in better knowing and understanding the dynamics of the illicit substance market, complementing other information from police and customs seizures, wastewater analyses, used needle analyses, suspected DUID case analyses, clinical toxicology case analyses and postmortem case analyses. Copyright © 2022

Ion Mobility Spectrometry in Clinical and Emergency Setting: Research and Potential Applications

Interest in the use of GC-IMS for the detection of volatiles has seen a rapid expansion over the last decade. The following chapter will focus on classical GC-IMS and its research applications in the potential for diagnosis, rapid testing and biomarker discovery, with an emphasis on breath testing. Breath analysis via GC-IMS has enormous potential in many clinical areas including screening for pulmonary diseases, infections and toxins. Due to the technology's small footprint, robustness in various environments and ease of use, there have been many studies looking at its potential utility in the clinical field, including its use as a screening tool for SARS-CoV-2 infections. There remain limitations to the device usage and data processing which are discussed throughout the chapter. An introduction to its fundamentals, standardisation, breath collection methods and active areas of research and development will be covered. Copyright © 2022, The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Switzerland AG.

Use of surgical masks for sampling in the determination of volatile organic compounds

In the SARS-COV-2 pandemic the use of masks has been one of the most efficient and extended practice to reduce the infection rate by virus propagation. Due to the ease of use and reduced cost of surgical masks, we have evaluated them for sampling exhaled breath by retention of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). A method based on headspace–solid-phase microextraction coupled to gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (HS–SPME–GC–MS) was developed for the determination of retained compounds in surgical masks used by volunteers during the period recommended by manufacturers. Analysis of results revealed that masks can retain VOCs from exhaled air, but also from the environment by exposition of users. We tentatively identified 63 compounds associated to 10 different chemical families and characterized the intra-individual (from 18 to 160%) and inter-individuals (from 32 to 260%) variability by analysis of masks collected for six days. Finally, we identified markers associated with the intake of products such as coffee and beer, chewing gum, smoking or use of toohpaste. All this suggests that surgical masks could be used as a simple and inexpensive sampling system for the analysis of volatile organic compounds.

Determination and risk assessment of phthalates in face masks. An Italian study.

Serious human health concerns have been recently raised from daily use of face masks, due to the possible presence of hazardous compounds as the phthalic acid esters (PAEs). In this study, the content of 11 PAEs in 35 commercial masks was assessed by applying a specific and accurate method, using Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry. Surgical, FFP2 and non-surgical models, for both adults and children were collected from the Italian market. Analyses showed that four of the target analytes were detected in all tested samples with median total concentrations ranging between 23.6 mg/kg and 54.3 mg/kg. Results obtained from the experimental analysis were used in the risk assessment studies carried out for both carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic effects. Doses of exposure (Dexp) of PAEs ranged from 6.43 × 10-5 mg/kg bw/day to 1.43 × 10-2 mg/kg bw/day. Cumulative risk assessment was performed for non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic effects. No potential risk was found for non-carcinogenic effects, yet the 20% of the mask samples showed potential carcinogenic effects for humans. A refined exposure assessment was performed showing no risk for carcinogenic effects. This paper presents a risk assessment approach for the identification of potential risks associated to the use of face masks.

"Tranq dope" in infancy: A 19- day-old with life-threatening poisoning due to fentanyl/xylazine

Background: More and more, young children are victims of the ongoing epidemic of opioid use disorder. Xylazine, an alpha-2 adrenergic agonist with notorious use as a veterinary tranquilizer, is an increasingly encountered component of the illicit opioid supply in the US, but has been rarely documented in biological samples obtained from children. We report a 19-day-old infant with classic manifestations of central nervous system and respiratory depression associated with fentanyl and xylazine poisoning. Case report: A 19-day-old boy was taken to the emergency department (ED) by his parents for episodes of straining, breathholding, and his eyes rolling backwards. The formula-fed boy was born of an uncomplicated full-term spontaneous vaginal delivery and had previously been thriving. During ED triage assessment he had a period of apnea, then bradypnea, with pulse-oximetric oxygen saturation drop to 55%. He was supported with stimulation and supplemental oxygen via nonrebreather mask but remained lethargic, with temperature 96F, heart rate 166/min, and brisk capillary refill. Point of care blood dextrose testing was 88mg/dL. Analysis of respiratory secretions for common viruses by polymerase chain reaction was negative for respiratory syncytial virus, influenza, or SARS-CoV-2. Computed tomography imaging of the brain was unremarkable. A urine drug immunoassay (Vitros 4600 Chemistry , Ortho- Clinical Diagnostics) resulted positive for fentanyl (cutoff 1 ng/ mL), but negative for amphetamine, barbiturate, benzodiazepine, cannabinoids, cocaine, heroin, morphine, buprenorphine, methadone, or oxycodone. Liquid chromatography tandem mass spectroscopy analysis of the urine confirmed the presence of fentanyl (25 ng/mL) and norfentanyl (245 ng/mL). Gas chromatography with mass spectrometry also detected the presence of xylazine (qualitative result based on spectra matching). Over the ensuing hours the boy recovered fully and the family was connected with child protection services;an exposure route was not identified. Discussion(s): This 19-day-old infant suffered fentanyl/xylazine poisoning. The infant's age and urine fentanyl concentrations exclude pre-natal exposure as an explanation for the drug test findings, and the baby was bottle-fed excluding drug transmission through breast milk. Xylazine has been known to be in this hospital's regional heroin supply since the early 2000s, and in 2019 xylazine was implicated in more than 31% of opioid-associated deaths at the city's medical examiner's office. In 2022, many fentanyl samples tested by regional law enforcement find more xylazine than fentanyl. Until recently, xylazine was an uncommon finding in our testing of pediatric opioid poisoning victims. Similar to fentanyl, xylazine may cause pupillary miosis and CNS depression;unfortunately it may be resistant to reversal with naloxone. Conclusion(s): This case is remarkable for the young age of this infant ill from post-natal fentanyl poisoning and for the detection of xylazine in his urine. Healthcare providers may not immediately consider opioid poisoning in the differential diagnosis of infants with altered mental status, and proper toxicological testing is important for appropriate child protection support. Detection of xylazine is a marker for a non-medical, or "street," source of fentanyl.

Edible algae (Ecklonia cava) bioprocessed with mycelia of shiitake (Lentinula edodes) mushrooms in liquid culture and its isolated fractions protect mice against allergic asthma.

BACKGROUND: Ecklonia cava is an edible marine brown alga harvested from the ocean that is widely consumed in Asian countries as a health-promoting medicinal food The objective of the present study is to evaluate the anti-asthma mechanism of a new functional food produced by bioprocessing edible algae Ecklonia cava and shiitake Lentinula edodes mushroom mycelia and isolated fractions. METHODS: We used as series of methods, including high performance liquid chromatography, gas chromatography, cell assays, and an in vivo mouse assay to evaluate the asthma-inhibitory effect of Ecklonia cava bioprocessed (fermented) with Lentinula edodes shiitake mushroom mycelium and its isolated fractions in mast cells and in orally fed mice. RESULTS: The treatments inhibited the degranulation of RBL-2H3 cells and immunoglobulin E (IgE) production, suggesting anti-asthma effects in vitro. The in vitro anti-asthma effects in cells were confirmed in mice following the induction of asthma by alumina and chicken egg ovalbumin (OVA). Oral administration of the bioprocessed Ecklonia cava and purified fractions suppressed the induction of asthma and was accompanied by the inhibition of inflammation- and immune-related substances, including eotaxin; thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP); OVA-specific IgE; leukotriene C4 (LTC4); prostaglandin D2 (PGD2); and vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1) in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and other fluids and organs. Th2 cytokines were reduced and Th1 cytokines were restored in serum, suggesting the asthma-induced inhibitory effect is regulated by the balance of the Th1/Th2 immune response. Serum levels of IL-10, a regulatory T cell (Treg) cytokine, were increased, further favoring reduced inflammation. Histology of lung tissues revealed that the treatment also reversed the thickening of the airway wall and the contraction and infiltration of bronchial and blood vessels and perialveolar inflammatory cells. The bioprocessed Ecklonia cava/mushroom mycelia new functional food showed the highest inhibition as compared with commercial algae and the fractions isolated from the bioprocessed product. CONCLUSIONS: The in vitro cell and in vivo mouse assays demonstrate the potential value of the new bioprocessed formulation as an anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic combination of natural compounds against allergic asthma and might also ameliorate allergic manifestations of foods, drugs, and viral infections.

Unraveling the mystery of efficacy in Chinese medicine formula: New approaches and technologies for research on pharmacodynamic substances.

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is the key to unlock treasures of Chinese civilization. TCM and its compound play a beneficial role in medical activities to cure diseases, especially in major public health events such as novel coronavirus epidemics across the globe. The chemical composition in Chinese medicine formula is complex and diverse, but their effective substances resemble "mystery boxes". Revealing their active ingredients and their mechanisms of action has become focal point and difficulty of research for herbalists. Although the existing research methods are numerous and constantly updated iteratively, there is remain a lack of prospective reviews. Hence, this paper provides a comprehensive account of existing new approaches and technologies based on previous studies with an in vitro to in vivo perspective. In addition, the bottlenecks of studies on Chinese medicine formula effective substances are also revealed. Especially, we look ahead to new perspectives, technologies and applications for its future development. This work reviews based on new perspectives to open horizons for the future research. Consequently, herbal compounding pharmaceutical substances study should carry on the essence of TCM while pursuing innovations in the field.