Functional benefits immune function

The sterols and sterolins in rice bran are potent immunomodulators. The best response was obtained with a 100 1 sterol/sterolin mixture that demonstrated T-cell proliferation from 20% to 920% and active cell antigens after four weeks in human subjects (Bouic et al, 1996). Another in vitro experimental study with sterol/sterolins, demonstrated a significant increase in cytokinines, interleukin-2 and y-interferon between 17% and 41 % in addition to an increase in natural killer cell activity. These experiments (Bouic et al, 1996) prove that sterol/sterolins are potent immunomodulators with important implications for the treatment of immune dysfunction. Rice bran products are excellent dietary supplements for the improvement of immune function. It is probable that the effects of rice bran on diabetes, CVD and cancer all result from improved immune function. 

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NF-kB regulates both innate and adaptive immune responses ( immune defense) [2]. Understanding the function of NF-kB in the development, maintenance, and activation of cells from the immune system (including hematopoietic cells, macrophages, dendritic cells, B and T lymphocytes) has greatly benefited from the analysis of knockout mice in which individual NF-kB family members were defective. 

Not all antigen-antibody reactions are of benefit to the body, as sometimes the complexes (or their subsequent interaction with body tissues) may result in tissue damage. This must be regarded as a malfunction of the immune system and is known as a hypersensitive reaction. These reactions can be categorized into five main types. The first three involve the interaction between antigen and humoral antibody, and as the onset of the reaction is rapid, the condition is termed immediate hypersensitivity. The fourth type (delayed hypersensitivity) involves T cells and the symptoms of the reaction appear after 24 hours. The fifth type is where antibody stimulates cell function. 

The above scientific information on rice bran phytochemicals indicates that a multitude of mechanisms are operating at the cellular level to bring about specific health effects. Several health benefits of rice bran appear to be the result of the synergistic function of the many phytochemicals, antioxidants, vitamins and minerals which operates through a specific immune response. Their role in the biochemical mechanisms at the cellular level which result in major health effects is shown in Fig. 17.1. A short overview summarizing the effect of the various phytochemicals on major health issues such as cancer, immune function, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, altered liver function and gastrointestinal and colon disease will be given below. 

Methylcobalamin is the coenzyme form of vitamin It is neurologically active, most bioavailable and best utilized. Unlike cyanocobalamin, it does not require any conversion after absorption by the body and is better retained by the liver and other tissues. It has exhibited beneficial effects against brain aging, irregular sleep patterns. It supports immune function and promote normal cell growth. It represents one of the best values in nutritional products, given its comparably low cost and its wide range of potential benefits. 

Deficiency syndromes of Zn, Cu, Cr, Se and Mo have occurred in patients on total parenteral nutrition (TPN). There is still much research to be done in assessing the nutritional status of many elements and understanding their metabolism, so that normal dietary intake may be supplemented for health benefits. Table 2 is a summary of the amounts required, the functions and the nutritional (usually dietary) imbalances in humans, where known, of the essential trace elements.31-33 (Note that this summary does not attempt to include imbalances related to environmental toxicology and occupational hazards.) Several trace elements have important functions in the immune system. Some are associated with nucleic acid. Others have structural roles, such as Si in cartilage, F and Zn in bone. They may be parts of vitamins, such as Co in vitamin B12, or hormones, such as iodine in thyroid hormones, Zn and Cr have a role in the synthesis and action of insulin.31-33... 

Surrogate endpoint A laboratory finding or physical sign that may not, in itself, be a direct measurement of how a patient feels, functions, or survives, but nevertheless is considered likely to predict therapeutic benefit. An example would be CD4 cell counts, used to measure the strength of the immune system in AIDS. 

Because olfactory receptors can detect a wide array of structural types (in principle, any), the evolution of pheromones has been influenced primarily by ecological factors. First, certain types of chemical compounds can travel great distances and convey information in complex environments, including those that lack light. These compounds can be adapted, through evolution, to the medium within which the animal functions (e.g., water or air). Second, other types of chemicals are sufficiently stable that they can convey information for extended periods terrestrial species benefit most from these. Third, complex structures and/or mixtures of smaller structures can be information-rich and highly specific (i.e., immune to eavesdropping by other species because of the selective nature of olfactory receptors). Finally, products that are readily and naturally produced by... 

Comments on the generally favorable effects of lithium on immune function have been summarized (46). The antiviral and neuroprotective properties of lithium were mentioned in a review of the immune system and bipolar disorder (47). The potential benefit of lithium in treating AIDS and AIDS-related dementia, owing in part to its cytokine-regulating and neuroprotective effects, has been reviewed (48). Genital Herpes simplex infection has responded to lithium (49). 

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