Gland Density Research Articles

Protective effect of combined vitamin C and E against ovarian and endometrial toxicity in rats that receiving oral rhodamine B

This study aimed to investigate whether combined supplementation with vitamin C and vitamin E was able to modify the superoxide dismutase (SOD) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in the ovarium of rats exposed to rhodamine B. Twenty-five female Wistar albino rats were divided into five groups (n=5 each), including control (untreated group); rhodamine B group; rhodamine B group which received vitamin C (0.2 mg)+vitamin E (0.04 IU/g body weight); rhodamine B group which received vitamin C (0.4 mg)+vitamin E (0.04 IU/g body weight); and the rhodamine B group which received vitamin C (0.8 mg)+vitamin E (0.04 IU/g body weight). Analysis of MDA levels as a marker of lipid peroxidation was done spectrophotometrically. Analysis of SOD levels was done by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay technically. Endometrial histology was analyzed in hematoxylin eosin staining. This increase in ovarian MDA was significantly (p<0.05) attenuated by the two highest dose treatments of combined vitamin C and vitamin E. Rhodamine B significantly decreased SOD levels compared to the untreated group. This decrease in ovarian SOD level was significantly attenuated by the second and third doses of the combined vitamin C and vitamin E. The vascular number and gland density were significantly lower in the rhodamine B group compared to the untreated control group (p>0.05). All doses also significantly prevented rhodamine B-induced decrease in the vascular number and gland density. In conclusion, the protective effect of combined vitamin C and vitamin E against ovarian and endometrial toxicity in rats receiving oral rhodamine B is due to inhibition of the lipid peroxidation, modulation of SOD levels, and the endometrium repairing effect.

Effects of hyperthyroidism on expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and apoptosis in fetal adrenal glands.

This study investigated the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), vascular density, and apoptosis in fetal rat adrenal glands with hyperthyroidism in late gestation. Twelve mature female Wistar albino rats with the same biological and physiological features were used for this study. Rats were divided into two groups: control and hyperthyroidism. Hyperthyroidism was induced by daily subcutaneous injections of L-thyroxine (250 µg/kg) before pregnancy for 21 days and during pregnancy. Rats in the control and hyperthyroidism groups were caged according to the number of male rats. Zero day of pregnancy (Day 0) was indicated when the animals were observed to have microscopic sperm in vaginal smears. Pregnant rats were sacrificed on the 20th day of pregnancy; blood from each animal was collected to determine the concentrations of maternal adrenocorticotropic hormone and thyroxine. Rat fetuses were then quickly removed from the uterus, and the adrenal glands of the fetuses were dissected. VEGF expression, vascular density, and apoptosis were analyzed in fetal rat adrenal glands. Maternal serum levels of the ACTH and free thyroxine were significantly higher in the hyperthyroidism group than in the control group. Immunohistochemistry revealed that the number of VEGF positive cells and vessel density significantly increased in the hyperthyroidism rat fetal adrenal group compared with the control group. Hyperthyroidism did not change the fetal and placental weights and the number of fetuses. This study demonstrates that hyperthyroidism may have an effect on the development of rat adrenal glands mediated by VEGF expression, angiogenesis, and apoptosis.

EDARV370A associated facial characteristics in Uyghur population revealing further pleiotropic effects.

An adaptive variant of human Ectodysplasin receptor, EDARV370A, had undergone strong positive selection in East Asia. In mice and humans, EDARV370A was found to affect ectodermal-derived characteristics, including hair thickness, hair shape, active sweat gland density and teeth formation. Facial characteristics are also largely ectodermal derived. In this study, taking advantage of an admixed population of East Asian and European ancestry-the Uyghur, we aim to test whether EDARV370A is affecting facial characteristics and to investigate its pleiotropic nature and genetic model. In a sample of 1027 Uyghurs, we discover that EDARV370A is significantly associated with several facial characteristics, in particular shape of earlobe (P=3.64×10 (-6) ) and type of chin (P=9.23×10 (-5) ), with successful replication in other East Asian populations. Additionally, in this Uyghur population, we replicate previous association findings of incisors shoveling (P=1.02×10 (-7) ), double incisors shoveling (P=1.86×10 (-12) ) and hair straightness (P=3.99×10 (-16) ), providing strong evidence supporting an additive model for the EDARV370A associations. Partial least square path model confirms EDARV370A systematically affect these weakly related ectodermal-derived characteristics, suggesting the pleiotropic effect of EDARV370A mainly plays roles in early embryo development. This study extends our knowledge about the pleiotropic nature of EDARV370A and provides potential clues to its adaptation fitness in human evolution.

A genetic basis of variation in eccrine sweat gland and hair follicle density

Among the unique features of humans, one of the most salient is the ability to effectively cool the body during extreme prolonged activity through the evapotranspiration of water on the skin's surface. The evolution of this novel physiological ability required a dramatic increase in the density and distribution of eccrine sweat glands relative to other mammals and a concomitant reduction of body hair cover. Elucidation of the genetic underpinnings for these adaptive changes is confounded by a lack of knowledge about how eccrine gland fate and density are specified during development. Moreover, although reciprocal changes in hair cover and eccrine gland density are required for efficient thermoregulation, it is unclear if these changes are linked by a common genetic regulation. To identify pathways controlling the relative patterning of eccrine glands and hair follicles, we exploited natural variation in the density of these organs between different strains of mice. Quantitative trait locus mapping identified a large region on mouse Chromosome 1 that controls both hair and eccrine gland densities. Differential and allelic expression analysis of the genes within this interval coupled with subsequent functional studies demonstrated that the level of En1 activity directs the relative numbers of eccrine glands and hair follicles. These findings implicate En1 as a newly identified and reciprocal determinant of hair follicle and eccrine gland density and identify a pathway that could have contributed to the evolution of the unique features of human skin.

New finding that might explain why the skin wrinkles more on various parts of the face.

The mechanism of formation of facial wrinkles has not been fully clarified due to the existence of many distinct influential factors. To clarify the relationship between facial wrinkles and structures in the skin, especially sebaceous glands, image analysis was performed on the forehead and lateral canthus regions of cadaveric skin specimens; 58 male and female donated cadavers (age range at death 20s - 90 s) were included in the study. Specimens were obtained from forehead and lateral canthus region after measuring wrinkle depth. Then tissue slices were prepared to observe the sebaceous gland and its density was measured and analyzed in relation to wrinkle depth, retinacula cutis density, dermal thickness, and solar elastosis degree. A correlation was found between sebaceous gland density and wrinkle depth in forehead specimens with a lower retinacula cutis density. Wrinkles were shallower in specimens with a higher sebaceous gland density. However, no such correlation was found in lateral canthus wrinkles, presumably due to the lack of sebaceous glands in that region. In addition, specimens with a higher sebaceous gland density tended to have a thicker dermis and/or less solar elastosis. Sebaceous gland density seems to be one of the multiple factors that prevent wrinkle deepening, and that is why wrinkles are deeper in the lateral canthus area than in the forehead. Functional studies will elucidate the mechanism of wrinkle formation in the future.

Effects of Topical Menthol on Skin Blood Flow and Active Sweat Gland Density during Hyperthermia

Topical application of menthol evokes cold sensation and cutaneous vasoconstriction without actual reduction in tissue temperature via the stimulation of a specific cold receptor family known as TRPM8. While being widely used to reduce joint pain, muscle inflammation, and soft tissue injuries in athletes and individuals with musculoskeletal disease, topical menthol may adversely affect body’s heat loss mechanisms. PURPOSE: To investigate if topical application of menthol reduces skin blood flow (SkBF) and active sweat gland density (ASGD) to the extent to which body heat loss is significantly reduced during recovery from exercise-induced hyperthermia. METHODS: Ten healthy male subjects (22±1 yrs) underwent two trials of cycle exercise at 50% VO2max in the heat (45°C, 50%) until their rectal temperatures (Tre) elevate 1.5°C above the baseline. Following the cessation of exercise, either 10g of 3.1% menthol gel (MEN) or placebo Lanolin cream (PBO) was applied on the limbs except hands and feet after which subjects recovered on a chair for 30min in thermoneutral condition (23°C, 50%). SkBF and ASGD were measured using a laser Doppler flowmetery and an iodine-impregnated cotton paper on ventral forearm and anterior thigh. Thermal measurements included Tre, 4-sites mean skin temperature (Tsk), and thermal sensation (TS: −4 very cold ~ 4 very hot). RESULTS: Cold TS in MEN was significantly greater than in PBO (F=29.22, P<.01) while reduction in SkBF and ASGD in MEN did not show significant difference compared to PBO. These slight alterations in vasomotor/sudomotor responses to topical menthol did not significantly impair Tre or Tsk recovery from hyperthermia.Table: No title available.CONCLUSION: Topical application of menthol does not adversely affect body heat loss during recovery from exercise-induced hyperthermia while significantly inducing cold TS.

Sweat gland density and response during high-intensity exercise in athletes with spinal cord injuries.

Sweat production is crucial for thermoregulation. However, sweating can be problematic for individuals with spinal cord injuries (SCI), as they display a blunting of sudomotor and vasomotor responses below the level of the injury. Sweat gland density and eccrine gland metabolism in SCI are not well understood. Consequently, this study examined sweat lactate (S-LA) (reflective of sweat gland metabolism), active sweat gland density (SGD), and sweat output per gland (S/G) in 7 SCI athletes and 8 able-bodied (AB) controls matched for arm ergometry VO2peak. A sweat collection device was positioned on the upper scapular and medial calf of each subject just prior to the beginning of the trial, with iodine sweat gland density patches positioned on the upper scapular and medial calf. Participants were tested on a ramp protocol (7 min per stage, 20 W increase per stage) in a common exercise environment (21±1°C, 45-65% relative humidity). An independent t-test revealed lower (p<0.05) SGD (upper scapular) for SCI (22.3 ±14.8 glands · cm−2) vs. AB. (41.0 ± 8.1 glands · cm−2). However, there was no significant difference for S/G between groups. S-LA was significantly greater (p<0.05) during the second exercise stage for SCI (11.5±10.9 mmol · l−1) vs. AB (26.8±11.07 mmol · l−1). These findings suggest that SCI athletes had less active sweat glands compared to the AB group, but the sweat response was similar (SLA, S/G) between AB and SCI athletes. The results suggest similar interglandular metabolic activity irrespective of overall sweat rate.

Glands on the foliar surfaces of tribe Cercideae (Caesapiniodeae, Leguminosae): distribution and taxonomic significance.

Large elongated glands occur on Cercideae leaf surfaces. Leaves of Bauhinia (55 taxa, 53 species), Cercis (1 species), Phanera (1 species), Piliostigma (2 species), Schnella (19 species) and Tylosema (1 species) were observed to determine location and relative number of glands. They were only observed on the abaxial leaf surface of 42 Bauhinia taxa. The glands were analyzed by light stereomicroscope and scanning electron microscopy. They are large (up to 270 µm long and 115 µm wide) and multicellular, containing lipophilic substances, probably volatile oils. Presence or absence and density of the glands in species of Bauhinia may be useful to determine species delimitation or distinction among infraspecific taxa. Higher density of glands is more common in species from "cerrado" (a savanna ecosystem) and "caatinga" (a semiarid ecosystem from northeast Brazil) areas. Bauhinia species devoid of foliar glands are frequently from humid forests.

Melatonin-related genes expressed in the mouse uterus during early gestation promote embryo implantation.

Melatonin, a superior antioxidant, is an important molecule which regulates female reproduction due to its receptor-mediated and receptor-independent antioxidant actions. In this study, we investigated the effect of melatonin on early gestation in a mouse model. During early gestation, the expression of the melatonin's rate-limiting enzyme, AANAT, gradually increased - in the uterus while the MT2 melatonin receptor was only expressed at day 2 of gestation and no MT1 was detected. Based on these findings, we conducted a melatonin injection experiment which demonstrated that 15 mg/kg melatonin significantly improved the number of implantation sites and the litter size. Also, the blastocyst and uterus were collected to identify the local action of melatonin. In the melatonin-treated mice, the endometrium was thicker than in the control mice; melatonin also caused an increase in density of uterine glands, and the uterine gland index (UGI) was significantly elevated over that of the control. Serum steroid hormone measurements revealed that at day 6 of gestation (postimplantation), melatonin significantly downregulated the E2 level, with no obvious effects on progesterone. Gene expression assay revealed that melatonin significantly upregulated expression of HB-EGF, a crucial gene involved in implantation as well as its receptor ErbB1 in the blastocyst. In addition, PRA, an important gene which influences the decidual response and luminal cell differentiation, p53, which regulates uterine through leukaemia inhibitory factor (LIF), were both increased after melatonin treatment. These data suggest that melatonin and its MT2 receptor influence early gestation. Exogenous melatonin treatment can improve mouse embryo implantation and litter size, which may have important applications in human reproductive health and animal husbandry.

Quantitative Scale for Grading of Cardiovascular Autonomic Reflex Tests and Small Fibers from Skin Biopsies (QASAT)

Background: Orthostatic intolerance including dizziness and syncope is common and may reflect autonomic dysfunction. Cardiovascular reflex tests (deep breathing, Valsalva maneuver and tilt test) are established diagnostic methods for evaluation of orthostatic and autonomic symptoms. Small fiber neuropathy, a frequent underlying mechanism, is evaluated by the quantitative sudomotor axonal reflex test (QSART) and skin biopsies. The comprehensive quantitative scale to grade abnormalities in these tests is lacking. Methods: This study defines the QASAT - Quantitative scale for grading of cardiovascular reflex tests using heart rate, blood pressure, n transcranial Doppler, QSART and small fibers (intrapidermal sensory and sweat gland) densities from skin biopsies. The QASAT has three main categories: cardiovascular, cerebral blood flow (includes cerebral autoregulation/vasoreactivity score) and small fiber neuropathy. QASAT was validated in 612 participants with diabetes mellitus (92), Parkinson’s disease (88), multiple system atrophy (23) and other diagnoses (409). The QASAT was compared with the Composite Autonomic Severity Score using ANOVA, correlations and sensitivity/specificity analysis. Results: Scores of heart rate variability from deep breathing, orthostatic hypotension, orthostatic cerebral blood flow, sensory and sweat gland small fiber densities were disease specific (p<0.0001) and were correlated with the severity of autonomic failure (r=0.84, p<0.0001). Autonomic, sensory and cerebral blood flow abnormalities coexist and are correlated. Initial response to slow and fast tilt, baroreflex gain, QT interval, catecholamines and spectral analysis of the heart rate failed to correlate with severity of autonomic failure and therefore were not included in QASAT. Conclusion: QASAT is an objective and validated instrument for grading of dysautonomia, associated small fiber neuropathy and cerebral blood flow. QASAT quantifies both below (bradycardia, supine/orthostatic hypotension) and above (tachycardia, supine/orthostatic hypertension) normal values. Cardiovascular tests are enhanced by scoring the cerebral hypoperfusion which underlies orthostatic symptoms. Inclusion of epidermal and sweat gland fiber density scoring improves lesion localization.

The association of the sebum excretion rate with melasma, erythematotelangiectatic rosacea, and rhytides

Rosacea and melasma are two common skin conditions in dermatology. Both conditions have a predilection for the centrofacial region where the sebaceous gland density is the highest. However it is not known if sebaceous function has an association with these conditions. We aimed to assess the relationship between facial glabellar wrinkle severity and facial sebum excretion rate for individuals with rosacea, melasma, both conditions, and in those with rhytides. Secondly, the purpose of this study was to utilize high resolution 3D facial modeling and measurement technology to obtain information regarding glabellar rhytid count and severity. A total of 21 subjects participated in the study. Subjects were divided into four groups based on facial features: rosacea-only, melasma-only, rosacea and melasma, rhytides-only. A high resolution facial photograph was taken followed by measurement of facial sebum excretion rate (SER). The SER was found to decline with age and with the presence of melasma. The SER negatively correlated with increasing Wrinkle Severity Rating Scale. Through the use of 3D facial modeling and skin analysis technology, we found a positive correlation between clinically based grading scores and computer generated glabellar rhytid count and severity. Continuing research with facial modeling and measurement systems will allow for development of more objective facial assessments. Future studies need to assess the role of technology in stratifying the severity and subtypes of rosacea and melasma. Furthermore, the role of sebaceous regulation may have important implications in photoaging.

Caffeine links dopamine and serotonin release during passive heat loading

Caffeine links dopamine and serotonin release during passive heat loading

On the nose: genetic and evolutionary aspects of smell.

On the nose: genetic and evolutionary aspects of smell.

Establishment of mouse endometrial injury model by electrocoagulation

To establish the murine model of moderate endometrial injury. Electrocoagulation was applied to induce endometrial injury of ICR mice with 0.5 watts power while contralateral uterine cavity acted as control without electrocoagulation. The endometrial histomorphology was observed in 7 days later by microscopy and fetal number of each lateral uterus assessed at 17.5 days after pregnancy. At 7 days post-electrocoagulation, the average endometrial thickness of operating side was significantly thinner than that of control side (1.14 ± 0.08 vs 1.88 ± 0.15 mm, P < 0.05). The density of endometrial glands of operating side was significantly lower than that of control side (20 ± 2 vs 32 ± 3 per 100x field, P < 0.05). After pregnancy, the average number of embryos at operating side decreased by 63.1% compared with control (3 ± 2 vs 8 ± 2, P < 0.01). The established model of endometrial electrocoagulation injury shows morphologic changes and decreased fertile ability. It has potential uses for animal studies of endometrial injury treatment.

Persistent Müllerian duct syndrome (PMDS) in the Polish free-ranged bull populations of the European bison (Bison bonasus L.)

This study describes the diversity of vestigial male uteri of the European bison (Eb) examined for: (1) morphology, (2) glycoprotein localization, (3) total protein and glycoprotein profiles, (4) steroid concentrations, and (5) PMDS based on the mutation of AMH and AMHR2 genes. Uteri of adult bulls (5–12 years old) were compared to a uterus of a juvenile female (6 months old). Male uterine proteins were analyzed in parallel to secretory endometrial proteins of pseudo-pregnant pig (PsEND) and BSA used as profile-controls. Hematoxylin/eosin-staining revealed the diversity of male uterine morphology, including lumen size/shape, endometrial (END) gland density, luminal knob-like epithelial structures and multiple intrauterine cells proliferating within the lumen. PAS-staining revealed the presence of glycoproteins restricted to luminal epithelial cells and END glands. Heterologous total protein PAGE-profiles (20–66kDa) revealed two dominant fractions (66 and 45kDa), similar to PAS-profiles (67 and 47kDa) in male and female uterine tissues. In male uterine tissues, androstendione and progesterone, but not testosterone, estrone or estradiol concentrations were lower than in the female. Sequencing of AMH- and AMHR2-like amplicons allowed identification of these gene mutations in Eb. Our results provide novel data regarding PMDS, demonstrating the diversity of uterine morphology, glycoprotein mass/profile, steroid concentration and AMH/AMHR2 mutations in Eb bulls.

High follicle density does not decrease sweat gland density in Huacaya alpacas

When exposed to high ambient temperatures, mammals lose heat evaporatively by either sweating from glands in the skin or by respiratory panting. Like other camelids, alpacas are thought to evaporate more water by sweating than panting, despite a thick fleece, unlike sheep which mostly pant in response to heat stress. Alpacas were brought to Australia to develop an alternative fibre industry to sheep wool. In Australia, alpacas can be exposed to ambient temperatures higher than in their native South America. As a young industry there is a great deal of variation in the quality and quantity of the fleece produced in the national flock. There is selection pressure towards animals with finer and denser fleeces. Because the fibre from secondary follicles is finer than that from primary follicles, selecting for finer fibres might alter the ratio of primary and secondary follicles. In turn the selection might alter sweat gland density because the sweat glands are associated with the primary follicle. Skin biopsy and fibre samples were obtained from the mid-section of 33 Huacaya alpacas and the skin sections were processed into horizontal sections at the sebaceous gland level. Total, primary, and secondary follicles and the number of sweat gland ducts were quantified. Fibre samples from each alpaca were further analysed for mean fibre diameter. The finer-fibred animals had a higher total follicle density (P<0.001) and more sweat glands (P<0.001) than the thicker-fibred animals. The fibre diameter and total follicle density were negatively correlated (R2=0.56, P<0.001). Given that the finer-fibred animals had higher follicle density and more sweat glands than animals with thicker fibres, we conclude that alpacas with high follicle density should not be limited for potential sweating ability.

Linear and Volumetric Evaluation of the Adrenal Gland—MDCT-Based Measurements of the Adrenals

The purpose of this study was to provide normal values of volumetry and linear dimensions of adrenal glands. Contrast-enhanced multidetector computed tomography scans of 105 patients were evaluated in this retrospective study. Imaging software was used both to measure the adrenal gland volume and to determine linear dimensions and density. For interobserver reliability, determination was repeated by a second reader in 10 patients selected at random. The mean adrenal volume was 4.84 (±1.67) cm³ on the left side and 3.62 (±1.23) cm³ on the right side. The total adrenal volume was mainly influenced by body weight (P < .001) and gender with women having smaller glands on average. The total width of the adrenal gland was 15.80 (±3.05) mm on the right side and 18.96 (±3.37) mm on the left side. There was a significant correlation between volume and linear measurements (P < .001). The mean density of both adrenal glands was 32.66 (±19.64) HU. Overall, interobserver reliability was high for volumetry (left adrenal, r = 0.98; right adrenal, r = 0.90) and low for linear dimensions. Normal data for volumetry and linear dimensions are provided. There is a concordance between volumetric and linear assessment. However, volumetry is more reproducible.

Real Time Histologic Assessment of Dysplasia in IBD Patients Using Probe-Based Confocal Endomicroscopy

Introduction: The endoscopic exam is an important tool in the management of patients with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Assessment of mucosal healing and surveillance of precancerous lesions are measures of quality care in patients with IBD. Assessment of precancerous lesions is rather tedious and relies on a random process with low yield. pCLE (probe based confocal endomicroscopy) is a new imaging technology providing real time assessment of histological features that can help focus the random process of tissue biopsy and increase the surface of microscopic examination. Methods: We performed a retrospective analysis of 74 patients with IBD that underwent colonoscopy with pCLE for cancer surveillance and/or disease activity monitoring. Prior to the pCLE exam a 5 ml bolus of 10% fluorescein was administered. All visibly abnormal areas, as well as other newly identified areas in the terminal ileum and each colonic segment were imaged and biopsied by pCLE. Biopsy from pCLE were compared to matching histology from H/E slides. The following criteria were considered: gland symmetry, density, and shape, density of goblet cells, amount of lamina propria cellular infiltrate, overall inflammatory process, and dysplasia vs. inflammation related atypia. In addition, the mucosal blood flow was characterized in terms of vessel density, tortuosity, and flow abnormalities. Extravasations of fluorescein (fluorescein leak) was assessed by pCLE only and used to define the intensity of the inflammatory process. Results: We noted an excellent correlation between standard histologic assessment and real time microscopic assessment of mucosal inflammation and dysplasia. The k agreement for individual descriptors of gland architecture, acute and chronic inflammation and dysplasia was greater than 0.77. pCLE correctly identified all dysplastic lesions and accurately differentiated benign from dysplastic polyps. In the presence of significant inflammation and reactive atypia, pCLE upstaged some of the lesions. A new histologic entity with malignant potential - diffuse segmental serrated transformation of endoscopically normal colonic mucosa was identified by pCLE. NPV of pCLE for dysplastic lesions was 100% and accuracy was 96%. Conclusion: pCLE had excellent performance as a screening tool for dysplasia in conjunction with standard biopsies. False positive results are inherent to the fixed depth of laser and limitations in characterizing nuclear atypia. Given the high NPV and the advantage of probing significantly more areas than standard biopsy protocols, pCLE is expected to increase the diagnostic yield. Incorporating pCLE in routine colorectal cancer screen of IBD patients will likely increase detection rate of dysplastic lesions and improve quality of care. Disclosure - Dr Arsenescu - Abbvie - speaker bureau. Dr Arsenescu - UCB- speaker bureau. Dr Arsenescu - Mauna Kea - speaker bureau.

GA3 and other signal regulators (MeJA and IAA) improve xanthumin biosynthesis in different manners in Xanthium strumarium L.

Xanthanolides from Xanthium strumarium L. exhibit various pharmacological activities and these compounds are mainly produced in the glandular trichomes of aerial plant parts. The regulation of xanthanolide biosynthesis has never been reported in the literature. In this study, the effects of phytohormonal stimulation on xanthumin (a xanthanolide compound) biosynthesis, glandular trichomes and germacrene A synthase (GAS) gene expression in X. strumarium L. young leaves were investigated. The exogenous applications of methyl jasmonate (MeJA), indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), and gibberrellin A3 (GA3) at appropriate concentrations were all found to improve xanthumin biosynthesis, but in different ways. It was suggested that a higher gland density stimulated by MeJA (400 µM) or IAA (200 µM) treatment caused at least in part an improvement in xanthumin production, whereas GA3 (10 µM) led to an improvement by up-regulating xanthumin biosynthetic genes within gland cells, not by forming more glandular trichomes. Compared to the plants before the flowering stage, plants that had initiated flowering showed enhanced xanthumin biosynthesis, but no higher gland density, an effect was similar to that caused by exogenous GA3 treatment.

Beneficial effect of Oligonol supplementation on sweating response under heat stress in humans.

Oligonol is a low-molecular weight polyphenol that possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. However, nothing is known regarding the impact of Oligonol on sudomotor activity. This study investigated the effects of Oligonol supplementation on sudomotor activity during heat load in humans. Initially, we conducted a placebo-controlled, cross-over trial where participants took a daily dose of Oligonol 200 mg or placebo for one week. After a 2 week washout period, the subjects were switched to the other study arm. As a heat load, half-body immersion into hot water (42 ± 0.5 °C for 30 min) was performed in an automated climate chamber. Tympanic and skin temperatures were measured. Sudomotor activity, including onset time, sweat rate (SR) and volume (SV), active sweat gland density (ASGD), and sweat gland output (SGO), was tested in four or eight areas of skin. When compared with placebo, Oligonol attenuated increases in tympanic and skin temperatures after the heat load. There was an increasing trend in local sweat onset time, but there was a decrease in local SR, SV, ASGD, and SGO for Oligonol compared to placebo. The mean ASGD was significantly higher in the Oligonol group than in the placebo group for 10, 20, and 30 min. This study demonstrates that Oligonol appears to be worthy of consideration as a natural supplement to support more economical use of body fluids against heat stress.