Free-Standing NiS2 Electrode as High-Rate Anode Material for Sodium-Ion Batteries.

Owing to the speculated price hike and scarcity of lithium resources, sodium-ion batteries are attracting significant research interest these days. However, sodium-ion battery anodes do not deliver good electrochemical performance, particularly rate performance. Herein, we report the facile electrospinning synthesis of a free-standing nickel disulfide (NiS²) embedded on carbon nanofiber. This electrode did not require a conducting agent, current collector, and binder, and typically delivered high capacity and rate performance. The electrode delivered a high initial capacity of 603 mAh g-1 at the current density of 500 mA g-1. Moreover, the electrode delivered the capacity of 271 mAh g-1 at the high current density of 15 A g-1. The excellent rate performance and high coulombic efficiency of the electrode were attributed to its low charge transfer resistance and unique structure.

Inhibitory effect of 1,2,4,5-tetramethoxybenzene on mast cell-mediated allergic inflammation through suppression of IκB kinase complex.

As the importance of allergic disorders such as atopic dermatitis and allergic asthma, research on potential drug candidates becomes more necessary. Mast cells play an important role as initiators of allergic responses through the release of histamine; therefore, they should be the target of pharmaceutical development for the management of allergic inflammation. In our previous study, anti-allergic effect of extracts of Amomum xanthioides was demonstrated. To further investigate improved candidates, 1,2,4,5-tetramethoxybenzene (TMB) was isolated from methanol extracts of A. xanthioides. TMB dose-dependently attenuated the degranulation of mast cells without cytotoxicity by inhibiting calcium influx. TMB decreased the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin (IL)-4 at both the transcriptional and translational levels. Increased expression of these cytokines was caused by translocation of nuclear factor-κB into the nucleus, and it was hindered by suppressing activation of IκB kinase complex. To confirm the effect of TMB in vivo, the ovalbumin (OVA)-induced active systemic anaphylaxis (ASA) and IgE-mediated passive cutaneous anaphylaxis (PCA) models were used. In the ASA model, hypothermia was decreased by oral administration of TMB, which attenuated serum histamine, OVA-specific IgE, and IL-4 levels. Increased pigmentation of Evans blue was reduced by TMB in a dose-dependent manner in the PCA model. Our results suggest that TMB is a possible therapeutic candidate for allergic inflammatory diseases that acts through the inhibition of mast cell degranulation and expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines.

SG-HQ2 inhibits mast cell-mediated allergic inflammation through suppression of histamine release and pro-inflammatory cytokines.

In this study, we investigated the effect of 3,4,5-trihydroxy-N-(8-hydroxyquinolin-2-yl)benzamide) (SG-HQ2), a synthetic analogue of gallic acid (3,4,5-trihydroxybenzoic acid), on the mast cell-mediated allergic inflammation and the possible mechanism of action. Mast cells play major roles in immunoglobulin E-mediated allergic responses by the release of histamine, lipid-derived mediators, and pro-inflammatory cytokines. We previously reported the potential effects of gallic acid using allergic inflammation models. For incremental research, we synthesized the SG-HQ2 by the modification of functional groups from gallic acid. SG-HQ2 attenuated histamine release by the reduction of intracellular calcium in human mast cells and primary peritoneal mast cells. The inhibitory efficacy of SG-HQ2 was similar with gallic acid. Enhanced expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-1ß, interleukin-4, and interleukin-6 in activated mast cells was significantly diminished by SG-HQ2 100 times lower concentration of gallic acid. This inhibitory effect was mediated by the reduction of nuclear factor-κB. In animal models, SG-HQ2 inhibited compound 48/80-induced serum histamine release and immunoglobulin E-mediated local allergic reaction, passive cutaneous anaphylaxis. Our results indicate that SG-HQ2, an analogue of gallic acid, might be a possible therapeutic candidate for mast cell-mediated allergic inflammatory diseases through suppression of histamine release and pro-inflammatory cytokines.

A new neolignan and lignans from the stems of Lindera obtusiloba Blume and their anti-allergic inflammatory effects.

A new neolignan, linderin A (1), together with six known lignans, (+)-xanthoxyol (2), pluviatilol (3), actiforin (4), (+)-syringaresinol (5), (+)-(7S,8R,8'R)-acuminatolide (6), and (+)-9'-O-trans-feruloyl-5,5'-dimethoxylariciresinol (7) were isolated from the stems of Lindera obtusiloba Blume (Lauraceae). Their chemical structures were elucidated by a combination of spectroscopic analysis and chemical reaction, and the absolute configuration of 1 was determined by Mosher's esterification. The effect of compounds 1-7 on tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin(IL)-6, and their inhibitory activity of histamine release were examined using human mast cells. Among the lignans tested, compounds 1, 3, 4, 6, and 7 inhibited release of histamine from mast cells. Especially, compounds 1 and 4 suppressed the gene expressions of pro-inflammatory cytokines, TNF-α, and IL-6 in human mast cells. Our findings suggest that the lignan constituents in L. obtusiloba may contribute to its anti-allergic inflammatory effects.

Inhibitory effect of putranjivain A on allergic inflammation through suppression of mast cell activation.

A great number of people are suffering from allergic inflammatory disease such as asthma, atopic dermatitis, and sinusitis. Therefore discovery of drugs for the treatment of these diseases is an important subject in human health. Putranjivain A (PJA), member of ellagitannin, is known to possess beneficial effects including anti-cancer and anti-viral activities. The aim of the present study was to elucidate whether PJA modulates the allergic inflammatory reaction and to study its possible mechanisms of action using mast cell-based in vitro and in vivo models. The study was performed in anaphylaxis mouse model and cultured mast cells. PJA inhibited the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines in immunoglobulin E-stimulated mast cells. PJA reduced this expression by inhibiting nuclear factor (NF)-κB and nuclear factor of activated T cell. The oral administration of PJA reduced systemic and cutaneous anaphylaxis, the release of serum histamine, and the expression of the histamine H1 receptor. In addition, PJA attenuated the activation of mast cells. PJA inhibited the release of histamine from various types of mast cells by the suppression of intracellular calcium. The inhibitory activity of PJA on the allergic reaction was similar to that of disodium cromoglycate, a known anti-allergic drug. These results suggest that PJA can facilitate the prevention or treatment of allergic inflammatory diseases mediated by mast cells.

Inhibitory effects of Diospyros kaki in a model of allergic inflammation: role of cAMP, calcium and nuclear factor-κB.

Diospyros kaki (D. kaki) has been cultivated throughout Eastern Asia for hundreds of years. D. kaki contains various biological active compounds, such as amino acids, carotenoids, flavonoids, tannins, catechins and vitamin A. Previous studies have shown that D. kaki has beneficial effects on homeostasis, constipation, hypertension, atherosclerosis and allergic dermatitis and is a good source of antioxidants, polyphenols and dietary fiber. However, the anti-allergic and anti-inflammatory effects of D. kaki have not yet been elucidated. This study aimed to investigate the protective effects of the aqueous extract of Diospyros kaki (AEDK) on mast cell-mediated allergic inflammation and to determine its possible mechanisms of action by using in vitro and in vivo mast cell-based models. The cAMP and intracellular calcium levels were measured to clarify the mechanisms by which AEDK inhibits the release of histamine from mast cells. AEDK inhibited the release of histamine and ß-hexosaminidase from mast cells by modulating cAMP and intracellular calcium levels. We also measured the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and interleukin (IL)-1ß. AEDK decreased gene expression and the secretion of the pro-inflammatory cytokines, TNF-α and IL-1ß by inhibiting nuclear factor-κB. In addition, AEDK inhibited systemic and cutaneous allergic reaction. The inhibitory effects of AEDK on allergic reaction and the release of histamine were found to be similar to those of disodium cromoglycate, a known anti-allergic drug. To isolate the active component of AEDK, activity-guided fractionation was performed, based on the inhibitory effects on systemic anaphylaxis. Catechin was identified as an active compound. The present findings provide evidence that AEDK inhibits allergic inflammation and suggest the therapeutic application of AEDK in allergic inflammatory disorders.

Vigna angularis inhibits mast cell-mediated allergic inflammation.

The aim of the present study was to elucidate whether extracts of Vigna angularis (EVA) inhibit allergic inflammatory reactions and to elucidate the possible mechanisms of action. For the assessment of allergic inflammatory response, histamine release and the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines from human mast cells (HMC-1) were examined. To identify the underlying mechanisms of action, intracellular calcium and the activation of nuclear factor (NF)-κB and mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) were assayed. To confirm the effects of EVA in vivo, systemic and local allergic reaction mouse models were employed. EVA dose-dependently reduced phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate and calcium ionophore A23187 (PMACI)-induced histamine release from mast cells. The inhibitory effects of EVA on the release of histamine from mast cells were mediated by the reduction of intracellular calcium levels. EVA decreased the PMACI-stimulated gene expression and secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and interleukin (IL)-6. The inhibitory effects of EVA on pro-inflammatory cytokines were NF-κB- and MAPK-dependent. In addition, EVA inhibited compound 48/80-induced systemic anaphylaxis and immunoglobulin E (IgE)-mediated cutaneous anaphylaxis. Our findings provide evidence that EVA inhibits mast cell-derived allergic inflammation, and suggest the possible therapeutic application of EVA in allergic inflammatory disorders.

Galangin attenuates mast cell-mediated allergic inflammation.

A great number of people are suffering from allergic inflammatory disease such as asthma, atopic dermatitis, and sinusitis. Therefore discovery of drugs for the treatment of these diseases is an important subject in human health. In this study, we investigated anti-allergic inflammatory effect of galangin and underlying mechanisms of action using in vitro and in vivo models. Galangin inhibited histamine release by the reduction of intracellular calcium in phorbol 12-mystate 13-acetate plus calcium ionophore A23187-stimulated human mast cells (HMC-1). Galangin decreased expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-6, IL-1ß, and IL-8. The inhibitory effect of galangin on theses pro-inflammatory cytokines was related with c-Jun N-terminal kinases, and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase, nuclear factor-κB, and caspase-1. Furthermore, galangin attenuated IgE-mediated passive cutaneous anaphylaxis and the expression of histamine receptor 1 at the inflamed tissue. The inhibitory effects of galangin were more potent than cromolyn, a known anti-allergic drug. Our results showed that galangin down-regulates mast cell-derived allergic inflammatory reactions by blocking histamine release and expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines. In light of in vitro and in vivo anti-allergic inflammatory effects, galangin could be a beneficial anti-allergic inflammatory agent.

Piceatannol inhibits mast cell-mediated allergic inflammation.

Piceatannol is a phenolic stilbenoid and a metabolite of resveratrol which is found in red wine. Piceatannol (PIC) commonly exhibits anti-inflammatory, antiplatelet and antiproliferative activity. In the present study, the anti-allergic and anti-inflammatory mechanisms of PIC were investigated by examining the effects of PIC on pro­inflammatory cytokine release and phosphorylation of mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinases (ERK, JNK and p38) in a human mast cell line. PIC dose-dependently inhibited compound 48/80-induced systemic anaphylaxis and immunoglobulin E-mediated local allergic reactions. PIC reduced the immunoglobulin E (IgE)-mediated local allergic reaction and attenuated histamine release from rat peritoneal mast cells. Histamine and ß-hexosaminidase release was markedly decreased dose-dependently by PIC treatment in RBL-2H3 cells. PIC treatments of HMC-1 cells definitely reduced mRNA expression and the release of the pro­inflammatory cytokines, tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin-8. MAP kinase phosphorylation was also strongly decreased dose-dependently following PIC treatment. PIC regulated the production of cytokines and histamine in phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate plus A23187-stimulated mast cells. Thus, PIC may alleviate allergic inflammation and may be a useful therapeutic agent for allergic diseases.

Aqueous extract of Mosla chinensis inhibits mast cell-mediated allergic inflammation.

Allergic inflammatory diseases such as food allergy, asthma, sinusitis, and atopic dermatitis are increasing worldwide. In this study, we investigated the effects of aqueous extract of Mosla chinensis Max. (AMC) on mast cell-mediated allergic inflammation and studied the possible mechanism of this action. AMC inhibited compound 48/80-induced systemic and immunoglobulin E (IgE)-mediated local anaphylaxis. AMC reduced intracellular calcium levels and downstream histamine release from rat peritoneal mast cells activated by compound 48/80 or IgE. In addition, AMC decreased gene expression and secretion of proinflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-8 in human mast cells. The inhibitory effect of AMC on cytokine expression was nuclear factor (NF)-κB dependent. Our results indicate that AMC inhibits mast cell-mediated allergic inflammatory reaction by suppressing histamine release and expression of proinflammatory cytokines and the involvement of calcium and NF-κB in these effects. AMC might be a possible therapeutic candidate for allergic inflammatory disorders.

Sparassis crispa suppresses mast cell-mediated allergic inflammation: Role of calcium, mitogen-activated protein kinase and nuclear factor-κB.

Allergic inflammatory disease such as food allergy, asthma and atopic dermatitis are increasing worldwide. In this study, we investigated the effect of water extract of Sparassis crispa (WESC) Fr. (Aphyllophoromycetideae) on mast cell-mediated allergic inflammation and the possible mechanisms of action. WESC inhibited compound 48/80-induced systemic anaphylaxis and serum histamine release in mice. WESC decreased immunoglobulin E (IgE)-mediated passive cutaneous anaphylaxis. Additionally, WESC reduced histamine release and intracellular calcium in human mast cells activated by phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) and calcium ionophore A23187. WESC decreased PMA and A23187-stimulated expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, inlerleukin (IL)-6 and IL-1ß. The inhibitory effect of WESC on pro-inflammatory cytokines was nuclear factor-κB, extracellular signal-regulated kinase and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase-dependent. Our results suggest potential therapeutic application of WESC in allergic inflammatory diseases.

Perfluorooctanoic acid induces mast cell-mediated allergic inflammation by the release of histamine and inflammatory mediators.

Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) has unique physical and chemical characteristics, water and oil repellency, thermal stability, and surfactant properties. PFOA has been regularly found in the blood of animals and humans worldwide, and has become an increasing concern because of its adverse effects in immune system. However, the role of PFOA in the allergic inflammation is not well-known. To further extend the immunotoxicity of PFOA, we examined the role of PFOA on the mast cell-mediated allergic inflammation and studied the possible mechanism of action. PFOA dose- and time-dependently increased histamine release from mast cells and serum histamine by the induction of intracellular calcium. PFOA exacerbated the IgE-dependent local allergic reaction in the mouse allergy model. PFOA induced gene expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-1ß, IL-6, and IL-8 in mast cells. The inducing effect of PFOA on the pro-inflammatory cytokines was nuclear factor-κB, p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase, and caspase-1 dependent. Furthermore, the activation of cyclooxygenase-2 by PFOA suggests the induction of allergic inflammatory mediators by the PFOA. Our findings provide evidence that PFOA, the known immunotoxic agent, induces mast cell-derived allergic inflammatory reactions by histamine release and expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines.

Ripe fruit of Rubus coreanus inhibits mast cell-mediated allergic inflammation.

In this study, we investigated the effect of a water extract of the ripe fruits of Rubus coreanus Miq. (Rosaceae) (RFRC) on mast cell-mediated allergic inflammation and studied the possible mechanism of action. Mast cell-mediated allergic disease is involved in many diseases such as anaphylaxis, rhinitis, asthma and atopic dermatitis. RFRC dose-dependently inhibited compound 48/80-induced systemic anaphylaxis and serum histamine release in mice. RFRC reduced the immunoglobulin E (IgE)-mediated local allergic reaction, passive cutaneous anaphylaxis. RFRC attenuated histamine release from rat peritoneal mast cells and human mast cells by the reduction of intracellular calcium. RFRC decreased the phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) and the calcium ionophore A23187 (PMACI)-stimulated expression and secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines in human mast cells. The inhibitory effect of RFRC on cytokine production was nuclear factor (NF)-κB- and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)-dependent. In addition, RFRC suppressed the activation of caspase-1. Our findings provide evidence that RFRC inhibits mast cell-derived allergic inflammatory reactions, and for the involvement of calcium, NF-κB, MAPKs and caspase-1 in these effects. Furthermore, in vivo and in vitro anti-allergic inflammatory effects of RFRC provide affirmative proof of a possible therapeutic application of this agent in allergic inflammatory diseases.

Elsholtzia ciliata inhibits mast cell-mediated allergic inflammation: role of calcium, p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase and nuclear factor-{kappa}B.

Mast cell-mediated allergic reaction is involved in many diseases such as asthma and allergic rhinitis. Therefore, discovery of drugs for the prevention or treatment of allergic disease is an important topic in human health. In this study, we evaluated the effects of water extract of Elsholtzia ciliata (Thunb.) Hyland (Labiatae) (WEEC) on mast cell-mediated allergic inflammation and studied the possible mechanisms of action. WEEC inhibited compound 48/80-induced systemic and immunoglobulin E-mediated local anaphylaxis, and serum histamine release in mice. WEEC reduced intracellular calcium levels and downstream histamine release from human mast cells (HMC-1) activated with phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate and calcium ionophore A23187. In addition, WEEC decreased gene expression and secretion of proinflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin (IL)-1ß and IL-6 in HMC-1. The inhibitory effect of WEEC on cytokine expression was nuclear factor (NF)-κB and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) dependent. Our results indicate that WEEC inhibits mast cell-mediated allergic inflammatory reactions by suppressing histamine release and proinflammatory cytokine expression, and involvement of calcium, NF-κB and p38 MAPK in these effects.

Suppression of dust mite extract and 2,4-dinitrochlorobenzene-induced atopic dermatitis by the water extract of Lindera obtusiloba.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: The Lindera obtusiloba has been used in traditional medicine for the treatment of inflammation and dermatitis. In this study, we investigated the effect of topical application of Lindera obtusiloba water extract (LOWE) on the house dust mite extract (Dermatophagoides farinae extract, DFE) and 2,4-dinitrochlorobenzene (DNCB)-induced atopic dermatitis (AD). MATERIALS AND METHODS: We established AD model in BALB/c mice by repeated local exposure of DFE/DNCB to the ears. After a topical application of LOWE on the skin lesions, the epidermal thickness, mast cell infiltration, and serum immunoglobulin E (IgE) and histamine were measured. In addition, the gene expression of interleukin (IL)-4, IL-13, IL-31, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α in the ears was assayed. RESULTS: LOWE reduced AD symptoms based on ear thickness, histopathological analysis, and serum IgE levels. LOWE inhibited mast cell infiltration into the ear and elevation of serum histamine in AD model. Moreover, LOWE suppressed DFE/DNCB-induced expression of IL-4, IL-13, IL-31, and TNF-α in the ears. CONCLUSIONS: Our results showed that topical application of LOWE exerts beneficial effects in AD symptoms, suggesting that LOWE might be a candidate for the treatment of AD.

Suppression of mast-cell-mediated allergic inflammation by Lindera obtusiloba.

Allergic disease is a consequence of exposure to normally innocuous substances that elicit the activation of mast cells. Mast-cell-mediated allergic response is involved in many diseases such as anaphylaxis, allergic rhinitis, asthma and atopic dermatitis. The discovery of drugs for the treatment of allergic disease is an important subject in human health. In this study, we investigated the effect of Lindera obtusiloba water extract (LOWE) on the mast-cell-mediated allergic inflammation and possible mechanism of action using in vitro and in vivo models. LOWE reduced histamine release from various types of mast cells activated by immunoglobulin E (IgE) or phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate and calcium ionophore A23187 (PMACI). The inhibitory effect of LOWE on histamine release was mediated by calcium signal. LOWE decreased the PMACI-stimulated gene expression of proinflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin-6 in human mast cells. The inhibitory effect of LOWE on the proinflammatory cytokines was nuclear factor (NF)-κB dependent. In addition, LOWE suppressed compound 48/80-induced systemic allergic reaction and serum histamine release in mice and IgE-mediated local allergic reactions. Our results indicate that LOWE inhibits mast-cell-derived allergic inflammation and involvement of calcium, histamine, proinflammatory cytokines and NF-κB in these effects.