• Journal of Ginseng Research
• /
• v.46 no.1
• /
• pp.39-53
• /
• 2022

Ginsenoside Rb₁ (Rb₁), one of the most important ingredients in Panax ginseng Meyer, has been confirmed to have favorable activities, including reducing antioxidative stress, inhibiting inflammation, regulating cell autophagy and apoptosis, affecting sugar and lipid metabolism, and regulating various cytokines. This study reviewed the recent progress on the pharmacological effects and mechanisms of Rb₁ against cardiovascular and nervous system diseases, diabetes, and their complications, especially those related to neurodegenerative diseases, myocardial ischemia, hypoxia injury, and traumatic brain injury. This review retrieved articles from PubMed and Web of Science that were published from 2015 to 2020. The molecular targets or pathways of the effects of Rb₁ on these diseases are referring to HMGB1, GLUT4, 11β-HSD1, ERK, Akt, Notch, NF-κB, MAPK, PPAR-γ, TGF-β1/Smad pathway, PI3K/mTOR pathway, Nrf2/HO-1 pathway, Nrf2/ARE pathway, and MAPK/NF-κB pathway. The potential effects of Rb₁ and its possible mechanisms against diseases were further predicted via Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway and disease ontology semantic and enrichment (DOSE) analyses with the reported targets. This study provides insights into the therapeutic effects of Rb₁ and its mechanisms against diseases, which is expected to help in promoting the drug development of Rb₁ and its clinical applications.

• Journal of Animal Science and Technology
• /
• v.64 no.1
• /
• pp.110-122
• /
• 2022

The reduction of milk yield caused by heat stress in summer is the main condition restricting the economic benefits of dairy farms. To examine the impact of hyperthermia on bovine mammary epithelial (MAC-T) cells, we incubated the MAC-T cells at thermal-neutral (37℃, CON group) and hyperthermic (42℃, HS group) temperatures for 6 h. Subsequently, the cell viability and apoptotic rate of MAC-T cells, apoptosis-related genes expression, casein and amino acid transporter genes, and the expression of the apoptosis-related proteins were examined. Compared with the CON group, hyperthermia significantly decreased the cell viability (p < 0.05) and elevated the apoptotic rate (p < 0.05) of MAC-T cells. Moreover, the expression of heat shock protein (HSP)70, HSP90B1, Bcl-2-associated X protein (BAX), Caspase-9, and Caspase-3 genes was upregulated (p < 0.05). The expression of HSP70 and BAX (pro-apoptotic) proteins was upregulated (p < 0.05) while that of B-cell lymphoma (BCL)2 (antiapoptotic) protein was downregulated (p < 0.05) by hyperthermia. Decreased mRNA expression of mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathway-related genes, amino acid transporter genes (SLC7A5, SLC38A3, SLC38A2, and SLC38A9), and casein genes (CSNS1, CSN2, and CSN3) was found in the heat stress (HS) group (p < 0.05) in contrast with the CON group. These findings illustrated that hyperthermia promoted cell apoptosis and reduced the transport of amino acids into cells, which inhibited the milk proteins synthesis in MAC-T cells.

• Journal of Ginseng Research
• /
• v.47 no.2
• /
• pp.246-254
• /
• 2023

Background: Here, we aimed to assess the inhibitory effect of a new compound from Panax ginseng on the migration of human ovarian cancer cells and tube formation of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). Methods: A new compound, ginsenglactone A (1), was isolated from ginseng roots, together with seven known compounds (2-8). Spectroscopic data were used to elucidate the chemical structure of 1. The tubular structure formation in HUVECs was assessed by Mayer's hematoxylin staining. The migration of A2780 cells was evaluated using the scratch wound healing assay. Results: HUVECs treated with 1 had the statistically significant decrease in tubular structure formation compared to the HUVECs treated with compounds 2-8. This effect was enhanced by co-treatment with inhibitors for phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) (LY294002) and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) (U0126). Treatment with 1 decreased the expression of phosphorylation of ERK, PI3K, vascular endothelial growth factor receptor2 (VEGFR2), Akt, and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR). In addition, the ability of A2780 cells to cover the scratched area were also decreased. This effect was enhanced by co-treatment with U0126. Lastly, treatment with 1 decreased the phosphorylation of ERK, matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9), and MMP-2. Conclusion: These results suggest that ginsenglactone A is a potential inhibitor of HUVEC tubular structure formation and A2780 cellular migration, which may be helpful for understanding its anticancer mechanism.

• Journal of The Geomorphological Association of Korea
• /
• v.17 no.3
• /
• pp.17-30
• /
• 2010

This paper aims to excavate and make storytelling of cultural landforms around Shincheon, Geumho river in Daegu and then to build the strategy for making its application. The main results are as follows. 1) There are main cultural landforms such as Yongdubawi(龍頭岩, river cliff), river cliff, rock shelter(岩蔭), sheeting joint landform, river cave, tor, etc. around Shincheon. 2) there are main cultural landforms such as riverine wetland, ferry, point bar, river cliff, Hwadam(畵潭, pool), Donghwacheon(stream), Mutae(無怠), Chimsan(hill), Yeonamsan(hill), Sanghwadae(river cliff), etc. around Geumho river. 3) It is necessary to excavate and restore cultural landforms around Shincheon and Geumho river for protection, Also the valuable cultural landforms should be designated as cultural assets in order to prevent damage. 4) Considering from application of cultural landforms around Shincheon, natural observation site need to be designed for experiencing culture, history and ecological environment. However, in viewpoint of application of cultural landforms around Geumho river, it is much better to plan a few of Geumho river cultural landform trails for self-guided tour.

• Molecules and Cells
• /
• v.45 no.3
• /
• pp.112-121
• /
• 2022

Calorie restriction (CR) and the activation of autophagy extend healthspan by delaying the onset of age-associated diseases in most living organisms. Because protein kinase CK2 (CK2) downregulation induces cellular senescence and nematode aging, we investigated CK2's role in CR and autophagy. This study indicated that CR upregulated CK2's expression, thereby causing SIRT1 and AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) activation. CK2α overexpression, including antisense inhibitors of miR-186, miR-216b, miR-337-3p, and miR-760, stimulated autophagy initiation and nucleation markers (increase in ATG5, ATG7, LC3BII, beclin-1, and Ulk1, and decrease in SQSTM1/p62). The SIRT1 deacetylase, AKT, mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), AMPK, and forkhead homeobox type O (FoxO) 3a were involved in CK2-mediated autophagy. The treatment with the AKT inhibitor triciribine, the AMPK activator AICAR, or the SIRT1 activator resveratrol rescued a reduction in the expression of lgg-1 (the Caenorhabditis elegans ortholog of LC3B), bec1 (the C. elegans ortholog of beclin-1), and unc-51 (the C. elegans ortholog of Ulk1), mediated by kin-10 (the C. elegans ortholog of CK2β) knockdown in nematodes. Thus, this study indicated that CK2 acted as a positive regulator in CR and autophagy, thereby suggesting that these four miRs' antisense inhibitors can be used as CR mimetics or autophagy inducers.

• The Bulletin of The Korean Astronomical Society
• /
• v.46 no.2
• /
• pp.47.3-48
• /
• 2021

We studied the large scale dynamo process in a system forced by helical magnetic field. The dynamo process is basically nonlinear, but can be linearized with 𝛼&𝛽 coefficients and large scale magnetic field $\bar{B}$. This is very useful to the investigation of solar (stellar) dynamo. A coupled semi-analytic equations based on statistical mechanics are used to investigate the exact evolution of 𝛼&𝛽. This equation set needs only magnetic helicity ${\bar{H}}_M({\equiv}{\langle}{\bar{A}}{\cdot}{\bar{B}}{\rangle},\;{\bar{B}}={\nabla}{\times}{\bar{A}})$ and magnetic energy ${\bar{E}}_M({\equiv}{\langle}{\bar{B}}^2{\rangle}/2)$. They are fundamental physics quantities that can be obtained from the dynamo simulation or observation without any artificial modification or assumption. 𝛼 effect is thought to be related to magnetic field amplification. However, in reality the averaged 𝛼 effect decreases very quickly without a significant contribution to ${\bar{B}}$ field amplification. Conversely, 𝛽 effect contributing to the magnetic diffusion maintains a negative value, which plays a key role in the amplification with Laplacian ∇²(= - k²) for the large scale regime. In addition, negative magnetic diffusion accounts for the attenuation of plasma kinetic energy E_V(= 〈 U² 〉/2) (U: plasma velocity) when the system is saturated. The negative magnetic diffusion is from the interaction of advective term - U • ∇ B from magnetic induction equation and the helical velocity field. In more detail, when 'U' is divided into the poloidal component U_pol and toroidal one U_tor in the absence of reflection symmetry, they interact with - B • ∇ U and - U • ∇ B from ∇ × 〈 U × B 〉 leading to 𝛼 effect and (negative) 𝛽 effect, respectively. We discussed this process using the theoretical method and intuitive field structure model supported by the simulation result.

• Journal of The Geomorphological Association of Korea
• /
• v.18 no.4
• /
• pp.247-259
• /
• 2011

This research aimed to analyse geomorphic resources of Mt. palgong(in Daegu city and Gyeongbuk province) through some field surveys, and then to clarify geomorphic features. The main results are as follows. 1) The geological boundary of the south slope(granite) is more clear than one of the north slope(granite bedrock and metamorphic sedimentary rock). Small basins are along with fault line between granite bedrock and metamorphic sedimentary rock. 2) It is estimated that relatively big valleys on the north slope are due to local climate, geomorphic and geological features. 3) Tor, sheeting joint, gutter are well developed both on the south slope and on the north slope, however the development of polygonal cracking and boulder stream are more dominant on the south slope; river cliff, pool, waterfall are more dominant on the north slope with valleys that well developed. 4) Scenic geomorphic landscapes are mainly developed in Dongsan valley and Chisan valley on the north slope. 5) There are many interesting geomorphic resources in the viewpoint of storytelling in Mt. Palgong. So the specific design to utilize such resources is required

• Nuclear Engineering and Technology
• /
• v.56 no.3
• /
• pp.993-1001
• /
• 2024

The TANDEM project is a European initiative funded under the EURATOM program. The project started on September 2022 and has a duration of 36 months. TANDEM stands for Small Modular ReacTor for a European sAfe aNd Decarbonized Energy Mix. Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) can be hybridized with other energy sources, storage systems and energy conversion applications to provide electricity, heat and hydrogen. Hybrid energy systems have the potential to strongly contribute to the energy decarbonization targeting carbon-neutrality in Europe by 2050. However, the integration of nuclear reactors, particularly SMRs, in hybrid energy systems, is a new R&D topic to be investigated. In this context, the TANDEM project aims to develop assessments and tools to facilitate the safe and efficient integration of SMRs into low-carbon hybrid energy systems. An open-source "TANDEM" model library of hybrid system components will be developed in Modelica language which, by coupling, will extend the capabilities of existing tools implemented in the project. The project proposes to specifically address the safety issues of SMRs related to their integration into hybrid energy systems, involving specific interactions between SMRs and the rest of the hybrid systems; new initiating events may have to be considered in the safety approach. TANDEM will study two hybrid systems covering the main trends of the European energy policy and market evolution at 2035's horizon: a district heating network and power supply in a large urban area, and an energy hub serving energy conversion systems, including hydrogen production; the energy hub is inspired from a harbor-like infrastructure. TANDEM will provide assessments on SMR safety, hybrid system operationality and techno-economics. Societal considerations will also be encased by analyzing European citizen engagement in SMR technology safety.

• Journal of Microbiology and Biotechnology
• /
• v.34 no.3
• /
• pp.495-505
• /
• 2024

Gromwell (Lithospermum erythrorhizon, LE) can mitigate obesity-induced skeletal muscle atrophy in C2C12 myotubes and high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obese mice. The purpose of this study was to investigate the anti-skeletal muscle atrophy effects of LE and the underlying molecular mechanism. C2C12 myotubes were pretreated with LE or shikonin, and active component of LE, for 24 h and then treated with 500 μM palmitic acid (PA) for an additional 24 h. Additionally, mice were fed a HFD for 8 weeks to induced obesity, and then fed either the same diet or a version containing 0.25% LE for 10 weeks. LE attenuated PA-induced myotubes atrophy in differentiated C2C12 myotubes. The supplementation of LE to obese mice significantly increased skeletal muscle weight, lean body mass, muscle strength, and exercise performance compared with those in the HFD group. LE supplementation not only suppressed obesity-induced skeletal muscle lipid accumulation, but also downregulated TNF-α and atrophic genes. LE increased protein synthesis in the skeletal muscle via the mTOR pathway. We observed LE induced increase of mitochondrial biogenesis and upregulation of oxidative phosphorylation related genes in the skeletal muscles. Furthermore, LE increased the expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma coactivator-1 alpha and the phosphorylation of adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase. Collectively, LE may be useful in ameliorating the detrimental effects of obesity-induced skeletal muscle atrophy through the increase of protein synthesis and mitochondrial biogenesis of skeletal muscle.

• Development and Reproduction
• /
• v.15 no.2
• /
• pp.179-185
• /
• 2011

Some phytoestrogens in soy and red wine, for example, might have beneficiary rather than adverse effects. In particular, dietary soy intake seems to be highly correlated with protection of breast cancer, osteoporosis and cardiovascular disorders. However, questions persist on the potential adverse effects of the main soy constituent genistein (GS) on female reproductive physiology. Previously we found that prepubertal exposure to GS could activate the reproductive system of immature female rats leading to precocious puberty onset, and intracerebroventricularly (ICV) injected GS could directly activate hypothalamic kisspeptin-GnRH neuronal circuits in adult female rats. The present study was performed to examine the hypothalamus-specific GS effects in prepubertal female rats and which subtype of estrogen receptor is mediated in this GS effect. Prepubertal female rats (PND 30) were anaesthetized, treated with single dose of GS (3.4 ${\mu}g$/animal), and sacrificed at 2 hrs post-injection. To determine the transcriptional changes of reproductive hormone-related genes in hypothalamus, total RNAs were extracted and applied to the semi-quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). ICV infusion of GS significantly lowered the transcriptional activities of mTOR (1:$0.361{\pm}0.058$ AU, p<0.001) but increased that of GAD67 (1:$1.285{\pm}0.099$ AU, p<0.05), which are known to act as an upstream modulator of kisspeptin and GnRH neuronal activities in the hypothalamus, respectively. GS administration enhanced significantly the mRNA levels of KiSS-1(1:$1.458{\pm}0.078$ AU, p<0.001), and exerted no effect on the mRNA level of kisspeptin receptor GPR-54 (1:$1.29{\pm}0.08$ AU). GnRH gene expression was significantly decreased in GS-treated group compared to control group (1:$0.379{\pm}0.196$ AU, p<0.05). There was no difference in the mRNA level of $ER{\alpha}$ in the GS-treated group compare to control group (1:$1.180{\pm}0.390$ AU, Fig. 3A). However, icv infusion of GS significantly increased the transcriptional activities of $ER{\beta}$ (1:$4.209{\pm}0.796$ AU, p<0.01, Fig. 3B). Taken together, the present study indicated that the acute exposure to GS could directly alter the hypothalamic GnRH modulating system in prepubertal female rats. Our study strongly suggested the involvement of $ER{\beta}$ pathway in GS's hypothalamus-specific action, and this idea is consistent with the GS's well-known $ER{\beta}$-mediated protective action in breast cancer.