Immune System Of People Research Articles

GAMBARAN KUALITAS HIDUP ORANG DENGAN HIV/AIDS DI YAYASAN SEBAYA LANCANG KUNING PEKANBARU

Introduction: HIV/AIDS (Human Immunodeficiency Virus/Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome) is one of the diseases that attack the immune system. Damage to the immune system in people with HIV/AIDS makes them susceptible to other diseases (opportunistic infections) that are fatal. This study aims to determine the picture of the quality of life of people with HIV/AIDS at Yayasan Sebaya Lancang Kuning Pekanbaru. Method: This research method is a quantitative research with a descriptive design of a survey approach. The respondents in this study were 112 people with a ≤ age of 18 years diagnosed with HIV/AIDS. The analysis used was univariate analysis. The sampling technique used consecutive sampling within a period of 1 month with the research instrument used was the WHOQOL HIV - BREEF questionnaire. Result: The results of the study on the quality of life (QoL) of people with HIV/AIDS obtained a median age of 31 years. The majority of men amounted to 88 respondents (78.6%), respondents had the most recent high school education amounting to 65 respondents (58%). Long diagnosed with HIV/AIDS > 3 years amounted to 60 respondents. The majority of unmarried marital status amounted to 74 respondents (66.1%). Based on job characteristics, the majority of respondents worked 81 respondents (72.3%). The QoL outcomes of people with HIV/AIDS at Yayasan Sebaya Lancang Kuning Pekanbaru is high at 60 (53.6%). while the results of poor QoL amounted to 52 (46.4%). Conclusion: The majority of the QoL of people with HIV/AIDS at Yayasan Sebaya Lancang Kuning Pekanbaru in the high category. It is recommended that the Sebaya Lancang Kuning Pekanbaru Foundation can form a spiritual support group for PLHIV accompanied by.

Magnesium supplementation modulates T-cell function in people with type 2 diabetes and low serum magnesium levels.

Low magnesium levels, which are common in people with type 2 diabetes, are associated with increased levels of pro-inflammatory molecules. It is unknown whether magnesium supplementation decreases this low-grade inflammation in people with type 2 diabetes. We performed a multidimensional immunophenotyping to better understand the effect of magnesium supplementation on the immune system of people with type 2 diabetes and low magnesium levels. Using a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, two-period, cross-over study, we compared the effect of magnesium supplementation (15 mmol/day) to placebo on the immunophenotype including whole blood immune cell counts, T-cell and CD14+ monocyte function after ex vivo stimulation, and the circulating inflammatory proteome. We included 12 adults with insulin-treated type 2 diabetes (7 males, mean±SD age 67±7 years, BMI 31±5 kg/m2, HbA1c 7.5±0.9 %) and low magnesium levels (0.73±0.05 mmol/l). Magnesium treatment significantly increased serum magnesium and the urinary magnesium excretion, when compared to placebo. The IFN-γ production from PMA/ionomycin stimulated CD8+ T-cells and T-helper 1 cells, as well as the IL4/IL5/IL13 production from T-helper 2 cells was lower after treatment with magnesium compared to placebo. Magnesium supplementation did not affect immune cell numbers, ex vivo monocyte function and circulating inflammatory proteins, although we found a tendency for lower high sensitive CRP levels after magnesium supplementation compared to placebo. In conclusion, magnesium supplementation modulates the function of CD4+ and CD8+ T-cells in people with type 2 diabetes and low serum magnesium levels.

The influence of physical occupational factors on the immune system

Environmental factors can influence various parts of the immune system, potentiating the formation of immunopathological processes underlying the development of a large group of diseases. The study aims to analyze the results of experimental and observational studies to assess the effect of noise, vibration, and electromagnetic fields (EMF) on immunological parameters. Among the mechanisms of the influence of physical factors on the immune system, most authors single out the action through the neuroendocrine system and the potentiation of oxidative stress. Experimental studies on laboratory animals to assess the effects of noise on the immune system demonstrate the effect of noise on cellular and humoral immunity, the intensity of an allergic reaction, and sensitivity to infectious agents. The results of surveys of workers exposed to industrial vibration indicate the influence of this production factor on humoral, cellular immunity, and cytokine status, however, the detected changes in these immunological parameters may be multidirectional. In vitro experimental studies indicate that after exposure to EMF on immune cells, numerous changes are detected in them. There are studies demonstrating changes in the immune system in people exposed to EMF. Thus, the analysis of literary sources indicates the influence of physical production factors (noise, vibration, EMF) on the immune status of the body, which determines the prospects of research aimed at developing criteria for evaluating changes in immunological parameters to identify groups at increased risk of developing pathology.

Opioid abuse and SIV infection in non-human primates.

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and drug abuse are intertwined epidemics, leading to compromised adherence to combined antiretroviral therapy (cART) and exacerbation of NeuroHIV. As opioid abuse causes increased viral replication and load, leading to a further compromised immune system in people living with HIV (PLWH), it is paramount to address this comorbidity to reduce the NeuroHIV pathogenesis. Non-human primates are well-suited models to study mechanisms involved in HIV neuropathogenesis and provide a better understanding of the underlying mechanisms involved in the comorbidity of HIV and drug abuse, leading to the development of more effective treatments for PLWH. Additionally, using broader behavioral tests in these models can mimic mild NeuroHIV and aid in studying other neurocognitive diseases without encephalitis. The simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV)-infected rhesus macaque model is instrumental in studying the effects of opioid abuse on PLWH due to its similarity to HIV infection. The review highlights the importance of using non-human primate models to study the comorbidity of opioid abuse and HIV infection. It also emphasizes the need to consider modifiable risk factors such as gut homeostasis and pulmonary pathogenesis associated with SIV infection and opioid abuse in this model. Moreover, the review suggests that these non-human primate models can also be used in developing effective treatment strategies for NeuroHIV and opioid addiction. Therefore, non-human primate models can significantly contribute to understanding the complex interplay between HIV infection, opioid abuse, and associated comorbidities.

The Oral-Systemic Link: A Review about the strong Correlation between Diabetes mellitus, Periodontits and COVID-19 Outcome

The SARS-CoV-2 virus leads to symptoms ranging from mild flu symptoms to severe COVID-19 pneumonia requiring mechanical ventilation and even death. According to epidemiological observations, diabetes mellitus is a major risk factor for severe outcome, next to older age, s, hypertension, and other serious chronic illnesses. Recent studies have determined that the oral cavity mucosa is the main entry portal for the SARS-CoV-2 virus into the body. The viruses accumulate in the mouth at locations where the main viral receptor is highly expressed. The oral pathway of the virus into the body and the contributing factors are described in this review. The immune system of people with diabetes is generally impaired. Diabetes induces chronic systemic inflammation, which regularly manifests as periodontitis in the oral cavity. Furthermore, frequent hyperglycemia leads to additional weakening of the mucosal immune barrier. These findings provide plausible explanations for the more frequent severe courses of respiratory viral infections in diabetes patients. An oral examination helps to identify patients at elevated risk. Activated matrix metalloproteinase-8 (aMMP-8) is an established biomarker for measuring the degree of oral inflammation and is an indicator of the destruction of collagen and bone structures in the mouth. aMMP-8 point-of-care tests are readily available. We propose that the current recommendations for the prevention of SARS-CoV-2-associated severe COVID-19 disease should be extended to consider the aspects of measuring and sanitizing oral health, as well as to include preventive regular daily disinfection of the mouth and the pharynx.

The Effect of Nanogold-Nanosilver Injection on Increasing the Immunity of Community Affected by Covid-19

This study aims to determine the best concentration of Nanogold and the effect of Nanogold-Nanosilver injection on increasing the immune system of people affected by Covid-19. The method used is quantitative and quantitative descriptive by observing the progress of giving injections once a month (May – November 2021) regarding the complaints experienced. The best concentration of Nanogold for injection observed on the antioxidant activity and λ maximum stability of Nanogold solution 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30 ppm after synthesis and after being stored for 7 days using UV-Vis Spectrophotometry instruments. Produce antioxidant activity 44,21%; 47,88%; 51,37%; 52,32%; 56,16%; 61,57%, with an IC50 of 14 ppm and a λ maximum stability of 5 – 20 ppm is stable; 25 – 30 ppm shifted by 0,50 nm. So, the best concentration of Nanogold was 20 ppm which was then characterized using the TEM instrument, resulting in an average size of 22,67 nm. A mixture of Nanogold-Nanosilver was injected into the respondents and obtained interview data after each injection. Respondents acknowledged that there was a significant difference, as evidenced by the percentage of development of body condition getting better. Thus, Nanogold and Nanosilver materials can increase immunity during the Covid-19 pandemic.

The Powerful Healing Effect of Traditional Medicine for The Treatment of Certain Chronic Diseases: One of The Means To Better Defeat Covid-19

Health is one of the greatest blessings a person can have, and it is priceless. Traditional medicine has always been and remains an important practice for human health. In all regions of the world, popular knowledge has acquired its own experiences in traditional medicine which are passed on from generation to generation and which have generated wonders in terms of innovation of effective traditional remedies which bear the fruit of the healing. After the release of the novel Covid-19 virus, several research studies have focused on the study of medicinal plants that fall under traditional Chinese or Indian medicine or others around the world, to try to put in place remedies against this virus. Chronic Diseases kill millions of people around the world every year. These diseases cause a weakening of the immune system in people who have them. As a result, health experts have classified those affected by these diseases as being among the most at risk in the event of contracting Covid-19. It is therefore obvious that preventing and combating chronic diseases helps to better cope with this Virus or others that may arise in the future. In this humble work, we have tried to make a small contribution that could help fight Covid-19. In the light of actual practices supported by bibliographic research, we try to recall some orientations of natural treatments against certain widespread chronic diseases namely: type 2 diabetes; arthritis and weak immune system (particular case of a low white blood cell count). The results of these treatments are very promising for healing and recovery; which opens doors of hope for those who are affected. Moreover, this subject deserves serious investigations through Research for a better consolidation of these therapies.

Iodine, an Effective Substance against the COVID-19 Pandemic

In addition to being an essential element in the production of thyroid hormones, iodine also has many biological functions. A potential benefit of iodine if consumed adequately includes increasing and improving immune function. Iodine can support the innate immune system in fighting bacterial and viral infections. The leukocyte myeloperoxidase enzyme uses iodine in cell-induced immunity. Like thyroid cells, this peroxidase uses hydrogen peroxide to oxidize tyrosine to the tyrosyl radical, and its inactivity causes immunodeficiency. In vitro, iodine has been shown to increase Immunoglobulin-G synthesis in human lymphocytes. Suppression and weakening of the immune system, which includes cytokine dysfunction and the acute phase response to infections, have a negative effect on inflammatory diseases. Therefore, iodine can play a significant role in the effective response to inflammatory diseases by strengthening the immune system. Another aspect of the effective use of iodine against contaminants, especially viral contaminants, is its use as an effective agent in disinfectants. So that, Povidone Iodine (PVP-I) is now widely used in dentistry and even surgery. At present, due to the widespread prevalence of COVID-19 and the low production and availability of vaccines in all countries, finding and providing appropriate, low-cost and affordable solutions to strengthen the immune system and combat COVID-19 is of great importance. Therefore, based on the information obtained, we hypothesize that adequate iodine intake, especially through dairy consumption, can strengthen the immune system in people and due to its antiviral and inflammatory properties, iodine can be used as a preventive agent against COVID-19.

Evaluation of nutritional status and health behaviors of patients infected with COVID-19.

Introduction:Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) was a health emergency for the world in which started in 2019. Various factors are involved in the pathogenesis of this virus, including age, gender, body mass index (BMI), the type of diet, the degree of observance of health protocols, and the health status of people. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the nutritional status and health behaviors of patients infected with COVID-19.Methods:A descriptive-analytical research method was used in this study. One of the outpatient centers for the patients infected with COVID-19 in Kermanshah was selected as the research setting. The study population included all patients infected with COVID-19 and the sample size was 200 people. Data were analyzed by SPSS version 22.Results:Most patients (51%) were females and most of them suffered from body aches (81%) and headaches (94%). Most of the patients (76%) did not use a mask. Regarding the nutritional status, a large number of patients used all food groups such as carbohydrates, proteins, fruits, and vegetables less than the standard amount.Conclusion:It can be concluded that people with underlying diseases are more prone to the disease than others and adherence to social distancing and mask use helps a lot to control the disease. In addition, the appropriate intake of food groups reduces the severity of the disease by strengthening the immune system in people.

Association of coronavirus pathogencity with the level of antioxidants and immune system.

Viruses are non-living organisms that annually cause many problems for human societies. The spread of some of the most dangerous viruses causing acute pneumonia, including novel Corona virus has led to the largest death toll in the world. With a long incubation period, Corona virus causes many problems for the immune system. Studies have shown that antioxidant enzymes play an important role in reducing infection and boosting the immune system. The immune system of people with chronic infections is often weak. Specific immunity is one of the most important responses to the virus. The present study therefore investigates association of Coronavirus pathogenicity with the level of antioxidants and immune system.

Red blood cell alloimmunization and sickle cell disease: a narrative review on antibody induction.

The high prevalence of red blood cell (RBC) alloantibodies in people with sickle cell disease (SCD) cannot be debated. Why people with SCD are so likely to form RBC alloantibodies, however, remains poorly understood. Over the past decade, a better understanding of non-ABO blood group antigen variants has emerged; RH genetic diversity and the role this diversity plays in RBC alloimmunization is discussed elsewhere. Outside of antigen variants, the immune systems of people with SCD are known to be different than those of people without SCD. Some of these differences are due to effects of free heme, whereas others are impacted by hyposplenism. Descriptive studies of differences in white blood cell (WBC) subsets, platelet counts and function, and complement activation between people with SCD and race-matched controls exist. Studies comparing the immune systems of alloimmunized people with SCD to non-alloimmunized people with SCD to race-matched controls without SCD have uncovered differences in T-cell subsets, monocytes, Fcγ receptor polymorphisms, and responses to free heme. Studies in murine models have documented the role that recipient inflammation plays in RBC alloantibody formation, with human studies reporting a similar association. Murine studies have also reported the importance of type 1 interferon (IFNα/β), known to play a pivotal role in autoimmunity, in RBC alloantibody formation. The goal of this manuscript is to review existing data on factors influencing RBC alloantibody induction in people with SCD with a focus on inflammation and other immune system considerations, from the bench to the bedside.

Prospective of low dose naltrexone use in treatment of autoimmune pathology and endometriosis

There are still many complex issues in the management of autoimmune pathologies in gynecology and reproductology, endometriosis in particular. Naltrexone, a competitive antagonist of opiate receptors in the central and peripheral nervous systems, reveals new qualities such as effects on autoimmune processes. Naltrexone in low doses of 1.7–5 mg (Low Dose Naltrexone, LDN) revealed the opposite effect on opiate receptors in the form of a rebound effect and, as a consequence, a strong increase in endogenous endorphins and enkephalins. Studies of elevated levels of these neurotransmitters have provided evidence of a multidisciplinary beneficial effect on the immune system of people with endorphin and enkephalin deficiency, an association between the endogenous opiate system and cells and tissue growth in general and healthy immune function was confirmed. The most explored effects of them are such as blocking the synthesis ofpro inflammatory cytokines IL-6, IL-12, tumor necrosis factor, the effect on neuroglia through toll-like receptors, the effect on the cycle cells growth, especially malignant tumor cells, through interaction with opiate growth factor, modulation synthesis of T- and B-lymphocytes. Growing evidence of LDN efficacy is becoming a potentially effective clinical practice in autoimmune pathologies, but still off-label used.Some data of clinical trials is presented. Four studies with Crohn's disease with results of relief of symptoms and remission, including experience in pediatrics. Three clinical trials with LDN results in multiple sclerosis with improved quality of life and improved symptoms. The scientific hypothesis suggests the success of LDN due to the reduction of induced nitric oxide synthase activity. The success of management of patients with malignant tumors is also presented. The article contains the latest data from clinical trials on reported serious and non-serious side effects of naltrexone at various doses, including data confirming the safety of taking mid-therapeutic naltrexone doses throughout pregnancy. These effects of LDN may prove to be effective in management patients with endometriosis.

Differences in plasma proteomes for active tuberculosis, latent tuberculosis and non-tuberculosis mycobacterial lung disease patients with and without ESAT-6/CFP10 stimulation

BackgroundTuberculosis (TB) is one of the world’s most problematic infectious diseases. The pathogen Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) is contained by the immune system in people with latent TB infection (LTBI). No overt disease symptoms occur. The environmental and internal triggers leading to reactivation of TB are not well understood. Non-tuberculosis Mycobacteria (NTM) can also cause TB-like lung disease. Comparative analysis of blood plasma proteomes from subjects afflicted by these pathologies in an endemic setting may yield new differentiating biomarkers and insights into inflammatory and immunological responses to Mtb and NTM.MethodsBlood samples from 40 human subjects in a pastoral region of Ethiopia were treated with the ESAT-6/CFP-10 antigen cocktail to stimulate anti-Mtb and anti-NTM immune responses. In addition to those of active TB, LTBI, and NTM cohorts, samples from matched healthy control (HC) subjects were available. Following the generation of sample pools, proteomes were analyzed via LC-MS/MS. These experiments were also performed without antigen stimulation steps. Statistically significant differences using the Z-score method were determined and interpreted in the context of the proteins’ functions and their contributions to biological pathways.ResultsMore than 200 proteins were identified from unstimulated and stimulated plasma samples (UPSs and SPSs, respectively). Thirty-four and 64 proteins were differentially abundant with statistical significance (P < 0.05; Benjamini-Hochberg correction with an FDR < 0.05) comparing UPS and SPS proteomic data of four groups, respectively. Bioinformatics analysis of such proteins via the Gene Ontology Resource was indicative of changes in cellular and metabolic processes, responses to stimuli, and biological regulations. The m7GpppN-mRNA hydrolase was increased in abundance in the LTBI group compared to HC subjects. Charged multivesicular body protein 4a and platelet factor-4 were increased in abundance in NTM as compared to HC and decreased in abundance in NTM as compared to active TB. C-reactive protein, α-1-acid glycoprotein 1, sialic acid-binding Ig-like lectin 16, and vitamin K-dependent protein S were also increased (P < 0.05; fold changes≥2) in SPSs and UPSs comparing active TB with LTBI and NTM cases. These three proteins, connected in a STRING functional network, contribute to the acute phase response and influence blood coagulation.ConclusionPlasma proteomes are different comparing LTBI, TB, NTM and HC cohorts. The changes are augmented following prior blood immune cell stimulation with the ESAT-6/CFP-10 antigen cocktail. The results encourage larger-cohort studies to identify specific biomarkers to diagnose NTM infection, LTBI, and to predict the risk of TB reactivation.

INF-γ Plasma Level and Polymorphism Significance in Autastic Spectrum Disorder, A Controlled Study in Basrah

ASD are particularly heterogeneous developmental conditions. Many arguments clarified a central function for dysregulation of immune system in ASD and many ASD hazard genes encode the immune system elements along with other risk factors. There is also evidence of continuing dysregulation of immune system in people with ASD and in animal models of this condition. Objectives: This study was performed to investigate the relationship between the IFN-γ + 874 gene polymorphism and INF - γ plasma level with susceptibility to ASD Methods: Polymorphism detection analysis was performed on 194 subjects from Basra south Iraq. 94 patients with ASD, (78 (83%) males and 16 (17%) females), their age ranging from 2 to 13 years, and 100 children apparently healthy control group matching for the same age and sex The IFN-γ gene polymorphism (+874A/T) was genotyped through a specific sequence primer polymerase chain reaction (SSP-PCR). For all participant the plasma level of INF-γ was determined by ELISA KIT (Elabscience, USA, Catalog No: E-EL-H0108), followed the manufacturer instructions Results: showed sufficient differences in the plasma concentration of INF between children with autism and the none group: 24.87 pg/mm2 18.86 pg/ mm respectively, with significant increase in plasma concentration of IFN of male and female of autistic group as compare to control group. Results of iterative distribution of INF-γ+874 gene polymorphism showed heterogeneous results between autistic group and control group, as the T allele was scored in autistic group 23.4% in compared with A allele which scored 79.7%, while in control group the T allele was scored 67% in compared with A allele which was scored 85%. AA genotypes of IFN-γ+874 showed higher recurrence among autistic group in compared to control group,(76.5% vs 33% respectively), while TA genotypes of IFN-γ+874 showed lower recurrence in autistic group when compared to control group,(3.2% vs 52% respectively),and IFN-γ+874 TT genotypes scored 20.2% in autistic patients and 15% was scored in control group ASD susceptibility is associated with the T allele of +874 rs2430561 with increase plasma level of IFN-γ which may have role in the severity of behavioural changes.

Meningkatkan Kualitas Hidup Penderita HIV/AIDS Melalui Penggunaan Antiretroviral (ARV) dan Dukungan Keluarga

The damage to the immune system in people with HIV infection resulted in them being easily attacked by other diseases, especially the decrease in the quality of life of HIV-AIDS sufferers. Therefore, the purpose of this research is to know the relationship between compliance with antiretroviral use and family support in improving the quality of life of people with HIV-AIDS. For that, quantitative descriptive research with the population is the entire patient with HIV-AIDS. They undergo medical checkup at Budi Kemuliaan hospital-Batam aged between 20-35 years which amounted to 76 people and samples as many as 60 people selected using the Purposive sampling method. The results showed a significant link between compliance with the use of antiretroviral and quality of life and the relationship between the quality of life with the support of the family in HIV/AIDS patients at the Budi Kemuliaan hospital-Batam.

Physical activity and exercise for older people living with HIV: a protocol for a scoping review

BackgroundOlder people living with HIV (OPLWH) are expected to live longer in the era of antiretroviral treatment, but at the same time, they are at risk for developing various health complications as a consequence of a life with the infection, exposure to medications that carry their own toxicity and side effects, and the natural effects of aging on the immune system. Because senescence is an inherent process that can be accelerated by HIV, it is important to identify strategies that can modify this phenomenon. Emerging data suggests that while physical activity and exercise may not have a positive impact on viral replication and on the immune system of people living with HIV, it can elicit improvements in cardiorespiratory fitness, strength, body composition, and overall quality of life. The purpose of this study is to map out empirical evidence on the effects of physical activity and exercise in OPLWH.MethodsThe scoping review methods will be guided by the framework proposed by the Joanna Briggs Institute guidelines. Literature searches will be conducted in the following electronic databases (from inception onwards): PubMed/MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar. Peer-reviewed journal papers will be included if they are written in English, involved human participants aged 50 years, and older with HIV and described a measure for physical, mental, or functional status of physical activity/exercise and/or the recommendations in OPLWH. Quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-method studies will be included in order to consider different aspects of measuring the effects of physical activity and exercise (e.g., quality of life, functional status, activities of daily living). Two reviewers will screen all citations and full-text articles. We will abstract data, organize them into themes and sub-themes, summarize them, and report the results using a narrative synthesis. The study methodological quality (or bias) will be appraised using a Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool.DiscussionThe evidence gathered from the selected studies will be discussed in relation to the research questions using a narrative to identify and explore emergent themes. The review will provide a baseline of evidence on exercise and physical activity interventions for OPLWH. It will highlight gaps regarding the use of exercise and physical activity and contribute to the design of an effective intervention approach to the rehabilitation of OPLWH.Systematic review registrationOpen Science Framework (https://osf.io/728kp/).

Medicinal plants used by traditional medicine practitioners to boost the immune system in people living with HIV/AIDS in Uganda

IntroductionPeople living with HIV/AIDS (PLHIV) widely use medicinal plants for boosting immunity and managing infections. The aim of this study was to document the medicinal plant species used by herbalists to boost the immune system of people living with HIV/AIDS in Uganda. MethodsSemi-structured questionnaires were administered to 90 herbalists to obtain ethnobotanical information on medicinal plant species used in different parts of Uganda. A detailed literature review of the pharmacology, phytochemistry, toxicology and other traditional used of the documented medicinal plants was also conducted. ResultsSeventy-one medicinal plant species from 37 families and 64 genera were identified. Trees contributed 38.0 % of the species used and herbs 35.2 %. The majority of the herbal medicines were made from leaves (35.6 %), bark (24.1 %) and roots (20.7 %). Zanthoxylum chalybeum Engl. and Psidium guajava L. were the most widely used species with citation frequencies (CF) of 11 each. These were followed by Warburgia ugandensis Sprague, Acacia hockii De Wild. and Bridelia micrantha (Hochst.) Baill (CF = 8 each), Mangifera indica L., Markhamia lutea (Benth.) K. Schum., Aloe vera (L.) Burm.f. and Erythrina abyssinica DC. (CF = 7 each). Most traditional medicine practitioners (TMP) (85.6%) used herbs for boosting immunity for PLHIV, whether or not the patients were on antiretroviral treatment. The patients often disclosed their sero-status to the TMP who considered all PLHIV to be immunocompromised. ConclusionHerbalists widely prescribe medicinal plant species for boosting or restoring the immunity in PLHIV in Uganda.

Immune reconstitution therapies: concepts for durable remission in multiple sclerosis

New so-called immune reconstitution therapies (IRTs) have the potential to induce long-term or even permanent drug-free remission in people with multiple sclerosis (MS). These therapies deplete components of the immune system with the aim of allowing the immune system to renew itself. Haematopoietic stem cell transplantation, the oral formulation cladribine and the monoclonal antibodies alemtuzumab, rituximab and ocrelizumab are frequently categorized as IRTs. However, the evidence that IRTs indeed renew adaptive immune cell repertoires and rebuild a healthy immune system in people with MS is variable. Instead, IRTs might foster the expansion of those cells that survive immunosuppression, and this expansion could be associated with acquisition of new functional phenotypes. Understanding immunological changes induced by IRTs and how they correlate with clinical outcomes will be instrumental in guiding the optimal use of immune reconstitution as a durable therapeutic strategy. This Perspectives article critically discusses the efficacy and potential mechanisms of IRTs in the context of immune system renewal and durable disease remission in MS.

Acute effects of aerobic intensities on the cytokine response in women with mild multiple sclerosis

BackgroundThere is limited information as to the effects of aerobic exercise on the immune system in people with multiple sclerosis (PwMS). One of the unresolved questions is which training intensity level is optimal for PwMS. ObjectiveThe purpose of this study is to compare the effects of moderate intensity with the effects of vigorous intensity on cytokine levels in women with mild MS. MethodsThe study included 15 women with MS and a control of 10 healthy women. The initial session determined the value of the maximum oxygen consumption and was carried out on an instrumented treadmill with a portable system for monitoring gases. During the second session, the participant walked on the treadmill for 15-minutes at a moderate capacity level (∼50% VO2 peak). Blood samples were taken at baseline, immediately after exercise and two hours later. IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, IL-17A, TNF-α and IFN-ɣ cytokines were tested. The third session was identical to the second except for a vigorous training intensity session (∼80% VO2 peak). ResultsIL-6 increased after moderate exercise for both the MS (p = 0.02) and control group (p = 0.02). IL-10 decreased during the vigorous session only in the MS group (p = 0.02). No other differences were seen over time in either group for all other cytokine measurements. ConclusionsWith the exception of IL-10, women with mild MS have similar inflammatory reactions to moderate and high intensity exercise as do healthy women.

Quantification of herbal drug hypoxoside from the roots of South African Hypoxis hemerocallidea using cost-effective high-performance thin-layer chromatography–densitometry validated method

Hypoxis (Hypoxidaceae) consists of about 90 species of plants reported worldwide, of which 76 occur in Africa. As many as 41 species are indigenous to countries belonging to the Southern African Development Community (SADC), including South Africa. Of all the Hypoxis species, Hypoxis hemerocallidea has versatile application in traditional health care system of over 85% of South Africans and is regarded as one of the most ethnomedicinally important and most marketed species in South Africa. H. hemerocallidea corm’s water or alcoholic extract is widely used as traditional medicine for the treatment of benign hypertrophy and urinary tract infections as well as for boosting the immune system of people living with human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immune deficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS) among others. However, the use of other parts of Hypoxis plant as medicine is vital for conservation purposes. The roots attached on the corm of H. hemerocallidea contain hypoxoside, but the roots are usually ripped off during the preparation of Hypoxis-containing traditional medicines and other herbal products. A developed and validated, affordable but reliable high-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC) densitometry for the rapid and repeatable visualization and quantitative determination of hypoxoside from the roots of H. hemerocallidea was performed. After thin-layer chromatography analysis, the hypoxoside resolved and was visualized at RF of 0.30 in CHCl3–MeOH–H20 (70:30:2 v/v). The method was linear with R2 of 0.9876 over a calibration range of 0.20 × 10−4–1.80 × 10−3 mg mL−1. The limits of detection (LOD) and quantification (LOQ) were 5.08 × 10−4 and 1.65 × 10−3 mg mL−1, respectively, while the percentage recovery and the method repeatability (%RSD) were 84.10 and 4.98, respectively. The roots of H. hemerocallidea were found to contain 4.101 × 10−4 mg mL−1 of hypoxoside.