Avenanthramide C Suppresses Matrix Metalloproteinase-9 Expression and Migration Through the MAPK/NF- κB Signaling Pathway in TNF-α-Activated HASMC Cells.

In oat ingredients, flavonoids and phenolic acids are known to be the most important phenolic compounds. In phenolic compounds, wide-ranging biological responses, including antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic, and anti-cancer properties, were reported. Avenanthramide C (Avn C), a component of the phenolic compound of oats, has been reported to be highly antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, but its role in an anti-atherosclerosis response is unknown. The aim of this research was to assess the effect of Avn C on expression of MMP-9 on TNF-α-activated human arterial smooth-muscle cells (HASMC) and signaling involved in its anti-atherosclerosis activity. HASMC cells are known to produce inflammatory cytokines involving IL-6, IL-1ß, and TNF-α during arteriosclerosis activity. Avn C specifically reduced IL-6 secretion in HASMC cells. Furthermore, we investigated whether Avn C could inhibit NF-κB nuclear protein translocation. Avn C suppressed nuclear protein translocation of NF-κB in TNF-α-stimulated HASMCs. The MMP-9 enzyme activity and expression are controlled through the MAPKs signaling path during the Avn C treatment. We confirmed that the levels of wound healing (p-value = 0.013, *p < 0.05) and migration (p-value = 0.007, **p < 0.01) are inhibited by 100 ng/ml TNF-α and 100 µM Avn C co-treated. Accordingly, Avn C inhibited the expression of MMP-9 and cell migration through the MAPK/NF-κB signaling pathway in TNF-α-activated HASMC. Therefore, Avn C can be identified and serve as disease prevention material and remedy for atherosclerosis.

Treatment of hypothyroidism using Korean medicine: 2 case reports.

INTRODUCTION: Hypothyroidism, the most common endocrine disease, comprises a deficiency of thyroid hormone, causing coldness, fatigue, and dysmenorrhea. Here, we report the improvement of hypothyroidism symptoms and thyroid hormone level normalization by using Korean herbal medicine and acupuncture therapy. PATIENT CONCERNS: A 30-year-old woman (Case 1) presented at the clinic with continuous seborrheic dermatitis on the scalp, accompanied by dysmenorrhea. A 55-year-old woman (Case 2) presented with symptoms of coldness of the limbs and fatigue. DIAGNOSIS: Both patients were diagnosed with "Yin deficiency and Yang hyperactivity" and hypothyroidism after serum thyroid function tests. INTERVENTIONS: Both patients received herbal medicine decoction, acupuncture, and electroacupuncture therapy. OUTCOMES: Korean medicine improved the symptoms of hypothyroidism and significantly normalized thyroid-stimulating hormone and free-thyroxine levels. CONCLUSION: These outcomes suggest that Korean medicine may be effective for resolution of hypothyroidism; however, further research is needed to confirm these findings.