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[Effect of coix seed on the changes in peripheral lymphocyte subsets]
T Kaneda1, Y Hidaka, T Kashiwai
1Department of Laboratory of Medicine, Osaka University School of Medicine.
Rinsho Byori. the Japanese Journal of Clinical Pathology
|February 1, 1992
Summary
Coix seed supplementation significantly alters immune cell populations, boosting cytotoxic T cells and natural killer cells. This suggests coix seed may enhance the body
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Natural Products
- Cellular Biology
Context:
- Coix seed has a history of use in traditional medicine for viral infections like warts.
- Coixenolide, a component of coix seed, exhibits anti-tumor properties.
- Limited data exists on coix seed's impact on peripheral blood cytotoxic activity.
Purpose:
- To investigate the effects of coix seed consumption on peripheral blood lymphocyte subsets.
- To analyze changes in cytotoxic lymphoid cell numbers in human volunteers.
Summary:
- Coix seed intake led to a significant increase in CD3+CD56+ (MHC-non-restricted cytotoxic T cells) and CD16+CD57- (mature natural killer cells).
- A transient decrease was observed in CD3-CD56+ (natural killer cells) and CD16+CD57+ (variable active natural killer cells) populations.
- Lymphocyte subset analysis was performed using flow cytometry in seven volunteers over four weeks.
Impact:
- Coix seed modulates peripheral blood lymphocyte subsets, indicating potential immunomodulatory effects.
- Findings suggest coix seed may be beneficial for viral diseases by enhancing cytotoxic activity.
- Further research into coix seed's therapeutic potential for immune-related conditions is warranted.