A Nigella sativa compound exterminates multiple myeloma cells

Margaret's Corner(LIVING WITH SMOLDERING MYELOMA)



A Nigella sativa compound exterminates multiple myeloma cells…

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The last post I wrote about Nigella sativa, = a “cure for every disease except death,” dates to May 2008 (see my page on “Black cumin” http://margaret.healthblogs.org/other-alternative-treatments/nigella-sativa-black-cumin/ )…



Back then, there weren’t any scientific studies on Nigella sativa and myeloma…Nonetheless, I was fascinated by, and devoted two posts to, this extraordinary medicinal plant, also known as black cumin, because its main active compound, thymoquinone, had been tested (with very good results) against many types of cancer cells, including pancreatic and super aggressive prostate cancer cells. These tests have shown that thymoquinone blocks many of the signalling pathways that are involved in myeloma. And that is why I was absolutely certain (almost 3 years ago) that it would have an effect on myeloma cells. But I had no proof at the time…



Well. Today. I. Do. Have. Proof.



A blog reader (thanks!!!) recently sent me the link to a study published in October in the “British Journal of Pharmacology” (http://goo.gl/L4kTf), showing that thymoquinone (TQ, from now on) can kill myeloma cells…ruthlessly…



As we can read in the abstract, TQ inhibits STAT3, a crucial signalling pathway that keeps our myeloma cells healthy and alive. Sifting through the rather complicated jargon used in the abstract (and in the full study, I would like to add!), the main point is that TQ has a very strong effect on a lot of the bad stuff in myeloma—cyclin D1, Bcl-2, Bcl-xL, Mcl-1, survivin and VEGF…(I have written about all of these bad thingies…You can do a “search” of my blog if you want to know more…the search box is on the right-hand side…just keep scrolling down my Pages…).



The abstract informs us that TQ also significantly potentiated the apoptotic effects of thalidomide and bortezomib in MM cells. But what I found most interesting is that this compound KILLED myeloma cells on its own, without the help of any other substance…In more scientific terms, it “induced apoptosis in myeloma cells.”



Apoptosis is an interesting and important cellular process also known as “programmed cell death.” I have written about it before (again, use the “search” box)…but, essentially, after a cell is born, it floats around for a while and does whatever it is it is supposed to do…then, when its time comes, it dies. That is what happens under normal, healthy circumstances…In fact, I read somewhere that in just ONE year we can lose half our body weight in cells that have died due to apoptosis = a fascinating titbit that stuck in my mind…



But cancer cells don’t like the “dying” part of the equation. They want to live forever…and so they bring into play a variety of “avoid-death-at-all-costs!” mechanisms. The little buggers even become chemoresistant…



Now, getting back to myeloma cells, one of these survival mechanisms includes STAT3…And that gives us an idea of how important it is to block this pathway when treating myeloma…



I have read the full TQ-MM study, and I must say it is impressive…though it is also quite difficult to follow here and there. As you know, I have a new policy of not quoting directly from copyrighted material…but, hmmm, let’s see…in addition to what we know from the abstract, here is a bit more info…



For those who are more technically-inclined: TQ inhibits the IL-6-induced STAT3 and also Akt activation. It also inhibits NF-kappaB activation, which is the Cruella Deville of myeloma…And it also blocks IL-6, which helps myeloma cells proliferate and build resistance against chemo drugs, among other things. Well, let me assure you that these are extremely positive findings…



The authors conclude that TQ merits further study, since it could possibly be used in cancers linked to the infamous STAT3 signalling pathway. Hah. No kidding!!!



I definitely need to order some more Nigella sativa…yup…



P.S. Interesting Science Daily article on thymoquinone and aggressive prostate cancer: http://goo.gl/cghDV

Black seed oil and Vitiligo

Nigella sativa seed extract and its bioactive compound thymoquinone: the new melanogens causing hyperpigmentation in the wall lizard melanophores


Sharique A. Ali, Keisham V. MeiteiArticle first published online: 29 MAR 2011

© 2011 The Authors. JPP © 2011 Royal Pharmaceutical Society

Issue

Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology

Ali, S. A. and Meitei, K. V. , Nigella sativa seed extract and its bioactive compound thymoquinone: the new melanogens causing hyperpigmentation in the wall lizard melanophores. Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology.


Author Information

Department of Biotechnology, Saifia College of Science and Education, Bhopal, India

*Correspondence: Sharique A. Ali, Department of Biotechnology, Saifia College of Science and Education, Bhopal 462001, India. E-mail: drshariqueali@yahoo.co.in



Publication History

Article first published online: 29 MAR 2011

Received August 12, 2010Accepted February 21, 2011

Keywords:cholinergic receptors;extract;Nigella sativa;thymoquinone;wall lizard melanophores-dispersion

Abstract

Objective The effects of the lyophilized seed extract of Nigella sativa and its active ingredient, thymoquinone, were studied on the isolated melanophores of the wall lizard to find the mechanism of skin darkening at the cellular level.



Methods The integumental melanophores of the wall lizard, Hemidactylus flaviviridis, were assayed using the mean melanophore size index and their responses were recorded in the presence of various concentrations of the plant extract, thymoquinone, specific antagonists and potentiator.



Key findings Significant skin darkening activity of the extract of N. sativa and thymoquinone was observed on the isolated melanophores of the wall lizard. The pigment cells responded by distinct dispersion leading to skin darkening. The effect was physiologically significant as re-immersion in physiological saline made the melanophores return to their normal intermediate state. These melanin dispersal effects were antagonized by atropine as well as hyoscine and were also found to be highly potentiated by neostigmine, an anticholinesterase agent.



Conclusions These findings suggest that the extract of N. sativa, as well as its active principle, mimic the action of acetylcholine in melanin dispersion leading to skin darkening via stimulation of cholinergic receptors of muscarinic nature within the melanophores of wall lizard. This study opens new vistas for the use of N. sativa active ingredient, thymoquinone, as a novel melanogen for its clinical application in skin disorders such as hypopigmentation or vitiligo.

Rahma Herbal Store: Nigella Sativa or Habbasauda Remedy for All Disease

www.theblessedseed.com

Nigella sativa seed extract in asthmatic patients

Keywords:asthma;Nigella sativa;pulmonary function tests;symptom score


Abstract

In previous studies, the relaxant, anticholinergic (functional antagonism) antihistaminic, effects of Nigella sativa have been demonstrated on guinea-pig tracheal chains. In the present study, the prophylactic effect of boiled extract of N. sativa on asthmatic disease was examined. Twenty-nine asthmatic adults were randomly divided into control group (14 patients) and study group (15 patients), and they were studied for 3 months. In the study group 15 mL/kg of 0.1 g% boiled extract and in the control group a placebo solution was administrated daily throughout the study. Asthma symptom score, asthma severity, frequency of symptoms/week and wheezing were recorded in the beginning (first visit), 45 days after treatment (second visit), and at the end of the study (third visit). Pulmonary function tests (PFTs) were also measured, and the drug regimen of the patients was evaluated at three different visits. All asthma symptoms, frequency of asthma symptoms/week, chest wheezing, and PFT values in the study group significantly improved in the second and third visits compared with the first visit (P < 0.05 to P < 0.001). In addition, further improvement of chest wheezing and severity of disease on the third visit were observed compared with the second visit in this group (P < 0.05 for both cases). In the third visit all symptoms in the study group were significantly different from those of the control group (P < 0.01 to P < 0.001). However, in the control group, there were only small improvements in some parameters in just the second visit. The usage of inhaler and oral β-agonists, oral corticosteroid, oral theophylline and even inhaler corticosteroid in the study group decreased at the end of the study while there were no obvious changes in usage of the drugs in control subjects. The results of phase I study generally suggest a prophylactic effect of N. sativa on asthma disease and warrant further research regarding this effect.

Black seeds anti aging properties

Zaro Agha, the 156-year-old Turk who came out of the ancient East to show the modern world what the oldest living man looks like, fell victim to modernism today [Sept. 26], and is near death. An automobile knocked him down on busy 20th-century Broadway. Physicians say his condition is critical. Agha, who came to the United States several months ago to give scientists an opportunity to marvel at him, was standing on the curb with his great-grandson, who is acting as his manager. An automobile grazed him and knocked him down, his head striking the pavement. He was taken unconscious to a drugstore and then to a hospital. The taxi driver disappeared in traffic.




Zaro Agha worked as a porter, and died in an Istanbul hospital on June 29, 1934 at the age of 164. Zaro Ağa reported in his later years that some things that may have been attributed to his long life were habit of eating yogurt, honey and black seeds on a daily basis. Agha also fathered a child at the age of 90.



There are many stories of middle eastern men retaining their vitality and libido into their later years. Habaat Sawda (Black Love, Seed) has been venerated since the ancient times in the land of Egypt and is a vital medical supplement for the majority of Middle Eastern communities.



Despite the lack of clean purified water for the average common person living in the Middle East, many people are able to extend their life's using this ancient medicine that protects the body' s internal organs and promotes overall good health.

Thymoquinone and cisplatin as a therapeutic combination in lung cancer:

Kalonji – Nigella is a small black seed, grown on Kalonji bushes. This plant originated in Turkey and/or Italy and is widely grown throughout India.


Thymoquinone (TQ) is a compound extracted from Black Caraway seeds of Nigella Sativa and is active against various cancers. Cisplatin (CDDP) is the most active chemotherapeutic agent in Lung Cancer.




Here we report activity of TQ against non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and small cell lung cancer (SCLC) cell lines alone and in combination with Cisplatin (CDDP).



Methods: For proliferation MTT assay, cell viability trypan blue assay and for apoptosis Annexin-V FITC assay were used in NCI-H460 and NCI-H146 cell lines. Inhibition of invasion by TQ was assessed using Matrigel assay and its affect on release of various cytokines was determined using RayBio Human Cytokine detection kit.



Mouse xenograft model using NCI-H460 was used to determine in vivo activity of TQ and CDDP. Inhibition of LPS induced NF-Kappa B expression by TQ was determined using transgenic mice expressing a luciferase reporter.



Results: TQ was able to inhibit cell proliferation, reduce cell viability and induce apoptosis.



TQ at 100 uM and CDDP at 5 uM inhibited cell proliferation by nearly 90% and the combination showed synergism. TQ was able to induced apoptosis in both NCI-H460 and NCI-H146 cell lines.



TQ also appears to affect the extracellular environment inhibiting invasion and reducing the production of two cytokines ENA-78 and Gro-alpha which are involved in neo-angiogenesis. Using a mouse xenograft model we were able to demonstrate that combination of TQ and CDDP was well tolerated and significantly reduced tumor volume and tumor weight without additional toxicity to the mice.



In the combination arms (TQ5mg/kg/Cis 2.5mg/kg) tumor volume was reduced by 59% and (TQ20mg/kg /Cis 2.5mg/kg) by 79% as compared to control which is consistent with in vitro data. TQ down regulated NF-Kappa-B expression which may explain its various cellular activities and this activity may prove useful in overcoming CDDP resistance from over expression of NF-Kappa-B.



Conclusion: Thus TQ and CDDP appear to be an active therapeutic combination in lung cancer.



Author: Syed JafriJonathan GlassRunhua ShiSonglin ZhangMisty PrinceHeather Kleiner-Hancock

Credits/Source: Journal of Experimental &Clinical Cancer Research 2010, 29:87

Further benefits of black seed

Strengthening the Immune System

Nigella sativa (Black Seed) can increase the number of T cells either to increase natural killer cells. Effectiveness up to 72% when compared with placebo only 7%. Thus, taking Black Seed can boost the immune system. In 1993, DR. Basil Ali with his colleagues from the College of Medicine at the University of King Faisal Saud Pharmasetik publish in the journal. Black Seed extract capabilities are recognized Prof. G Reitmuller, Director of the Institute Immonologi from the University of Munich, can boost the immune system and can be used bioregulator. Thus, Black Seed can be used as a cure for diseases that attack the immune system, such as cancer and AIDS.

Improve memory, concentration, and alertness

With the content of linoleic acid (omega 6) and linoleic acid (omega 3), Black Seed is the nutrition for the brain cells to improve memory and intelligence. Black Seed also improve micro (blood circulation) to the brain and is very appropriate given the child’s age and growth of the elderly.

Increasing hormone bioactivity

Hormones are active substance which is produced by endocrine glands into the blood circulation. In the human body there are many different types of hormones on reproductive hormones ataranya associated with sexual arousal. Black Seed is one setrol content that serves as hormone synthesis and bioactivity.

Neutralize toxins in the body

Toxins may interfere with its metabolism and decrease the function of important organs like liver, lungs and brain. Symptoms of mild poisoning may include diarrhea, vomiting, dizziness, respiratory problems and reduce the power of concentration. Black Seed contains saponins that can neutralize and clean up toxins in the body.

Overcome sleep disorders and stress

Sapion contained in Black Seed has functions such as corticosteroids that can influence carbohydrate, protein and fat and also affects the functioning of the heart, kidneys, muscles and nerves. Sapion serves to defend itself from environmental changes, sleep disturbances and can relieve stress.

Anti-histamine.

Histamine is a substance released by bodily tissues, providing an allergic reaction such as bronchial asthma. Black Seed Oil is made from ‘can isolate dithimoquinone. This oil is often called volatile nigellone from nigella. Granting of this oil had a positive impact penderta bronchial asthma.

Research conducted by Nirmal Chakravaty MD in 1993 proved the crystals from negelone suppresive effect. These crystals can be inhibited protemkinasi C, a substance that triggers the release of histamine.

Other research also proves the same thing. This time it was done by Dr. Med. Peter Schleincher, immonologi experts from the University of Munich. Those who do test on 600 people who suffer from allergies. The results were quite convincing, 70% who suffer from dust allergies, pollen, acne and asthma recovered after being given a nigella oil (Black Seed). In practice Dr. Black Seed Schleincher prescribe ‘to patients suffering from influenza.

Improve the digestive tract and anti-bacterial

Black Seed oil contains the essential oil from a known volatif useful for improving digestion. Essential oil traditionally used to cure diarrhea. In 1992, Pakistan Journal of Pharmaceutical create a result that proves more potent volatile oils to kill strains of bacteria such as Cholera and E. Coli V compared with antibiotics such as tetracycline and ampicilin.

Breast milk launched

The combination of unsaturated fat and hormonoal structure contained in Black Seed oil ‘may launch breast milk. This research was later published in the research literature Potchetstroom University in 1989.


Supplementary nutrition to pregnant women and toddlers

In infancy, children need to improve isstem nutrusi naturally immune, especially during the rainy season is very easy to children with flu and colds. The content of Omega 3, Omega 6 and Omega 9 which are on the nutrients Habbatussauda’merupakan assist in the development of brain tissue.


Rejuvenate skin cells and delay the aging process

The skin is the outermost one of the important organs. Its function is to protect the body from a physical clash, bacteria and fungi. Black Seed is very good to maintain moisture, smoothness and youthfulness of skin.

Nutrition for the elderly and food supplement.
Rich in nutrients as additional energy is ideal for people who are elderly, especially to keep the immune system and brain cells revitalitas quickly so as not senile. Black Seed contains 15 kinds of compiler zest acid contents of protein, including the nine essential amino acids. Amino acids can not be produced by the body in sufficient quantity, and therefore must be obtained from food.

The principles of anti-tumor at the International Cancer Congress in New Delhi on last fall, Black Seed Oil ‘was introduced Immonobiologi cancer scientists from the Laboratory of South Carolina. Black Seed stimulates bone marrow and immune cells. Interferonnya produce normal cells against harmful viruses as well as destroy tumor cells and enhancing antibodies.