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Synergistic effect of Avemar on proinflammatory cytokine production and Ras-mediated cell activation

András Telekes1, Endre Kiss-Tóth, Tünde Nagy

  • 1Chemotherapy Day-Ward Unit, National Institute of Oncology, Ráth György u. 7-9, 1122 Budapest, Hungary. telekes@oncol.hu

Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences
|August 30, 2005
PubMed

Insights

Avemar, a fermented wheat germ extract, modulates immune cell responses. It enhances cytokine production and immune cell activation, but inhibits proliferation at higher doses.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Cell Biology
  • Biochemistry

Background:

  • Macrophages are key immune cells involved in inflammatory responses.
  • Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and phorbol esters (PMA) are common activators of macrophages.
  • Fermented wheat germ extract (Avemar) is explored for its biological effects.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the effects of Avemar on activated immune cells and cellular signaling pathways.
  • To determine Avemar's impact on cytokine gene expression and inflammatory cytokine release.
  • To analyze Avemar's influence on cell proliferation, survival, and specific signaling pathways.

Main Methods:

  • Macrophages were activated with LPS and/or PMA.
  • Cytokine gene transcription and protein release were measured.
  • Cell proliferation and survival assays were performed.
  • Expression of ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 was assessed.
  • HeLa cells were used to study signaling pathways (stress kinases, AP-1, NF-kappa B, PKA).

Main Results:

  • Avemar sensitized activated macrophages, synergizing with LPS and PMA to induce cytokine gene transcription and release.
  • Higher Avemar concentrations inhibited proliferation and survival of activated myeloid cells.
  • Avemar induced ICAM-1 synthesis and synergized with TNF, but did not affect VCAM-1.
  • Avemar activated stress kinases, AP-1, and NF-kappa B signaling pathways in a concentration-dependent manner.
  • No effect of Avemar was observed on PKA-sensitive signaling pathways.

Conclusions:

  • Avemar exhibits complex immunomodulatory effects, enhancing inflammatory responses while potentially inhibiting cell proliferation at higher concentrations.
  • Avemar influences key signaling pathways involved in cell activation, including stress kinases, AP-1, and NF-kappa B.
  • The findings suggest Avemar's potential as a modulator of immune cell function and inflammatory processes.

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